Updated for 2026
The Complete Guide to Golf Simulator Projectors: Mounting, Specs, and Our Top Picks
Lumens, throw ratios, laser vs. lamp, ambient light, mounting positions — everything you need to choose the right projector for your build. From a team with 50+ simulator installs.
Written by Launch House Golf
50+ premium simulator installations · BenQ, Optoma & ViewSonic dealer · Updated February 2026
📋 What's In This Guide
- ➤ How to Choose a Golf Simulator Projector (5 Steps)
- ➤ Mounting Positions: Ceiling, Floor & Side Mount
- ➤ Throw Ratio Explained (With Examples)
- ➤ Lumens & Ambient Light: How Bright Is Bright Enough?
- ➤ Resolution: 1080p vs. 4K — Do You Need It?
- ➤ Laser vs. Lamp: Why Laser Is the Move in 2026
- ➤ Aspect Ratios: 16:9, 4:3, 1:1 — What Fits Your Screen?
- ➤ Keystone, Lens Shift & Auto Screen Fit
- ➤ Our Recommended Projectors for 2026
- ➤ FAQ
Projectors are one of the most confusing parts of a golf simulator build. Between throw ratios, lumens, aspect ratios, mounting positions, and a wall of model numbers — it's easy to feel lost. We wrote our original projector guide to simplify things, and two years and 50+ installs later, we're back with a completely updated version for 2026.
The projector market has shifted significantly. Laser light sources have become the standard, 4K golf-specific models from BenQ now dominate the enthusiast space, and the mercury lamp ban heading into effect in the EU is accelerating the transition away from traditional bulbs globally. The fundamentals haven't changed — you still need to match your projector to your screen, your space, and your budget — but the options are better than ever.
Here's everything we know from building dozens of simulator spaces.
How to Choose a Golf Simulator Projector: 5 Steps
Before you look at a single spec sheet, you need to answer five questions — in this order. Every projector decision flows from these.
Step 1
Choose your enclosure & screen size
Everything starts here. Your enclosure dimensions determine the viewable screen area, which determines the throw distance, which determines which projectors will work. You can't pick a projector without knowing your screen size.
Step 2
Identify your mounting location
Where can the projector physically go? Ceiling mount behind the golfer is ideal. Floor mount in front is an option. Side mount is possible but demanding. This determines your throw ratio requirements.
Step 3
Assess your ambient light
Basement with no windows? A garage with daylight coming through? The amount of ambient light dictates how many lumens you need. More light = more lumens.
Step 4
Decide on resolution
1080p or 4K? This depends on your screen size, your sim software, your PC's graphics card, and honestly — your budget. We'll help you decide if 4K is worth it.
Step 5
Set your budget
Projectors for golf simulators range from ~$600 to $5,000+. We'll show you what each tier gets you. The good news: a great projector in 2026 costs less than a mediocre one did five years ago.
Mounting Positions: Ceiling, Floor & Side Mount
Where you mount the projector affects image quality, shadow risk, safety, and the overall aesthetics of your bay. Here's what we recommend after installing every configuration imaginable.
🏆 Ceiling Mount (Overhead) — The Best Option
This is what we do on the vast majority of our builds, and what we recommend for both residential and commercial installations. The projector mounts upside-down to the ceiling, behind the golfer, projecting forward onto the impact screen.
Ideal mounting distance from screen: 8–14 feet from the impact screen. At under 8 feet, you risk a golf ball hitting the projector. Beyond 14 feet, the golfer can cast a shadow on the screen.
Why it's the best: The projector is completely out of the way — no tripping hazards, no floor clutter, no risk from worm-burner shots. It produces the cleanest aesthetics and is safe from ball strikes. If you have an overhead-mounted launch monitor (like a Trackman iO or Uneekor), plan the ceiling layout so both devices have clearance.
What you need: Mounting material in the ceiling — studs, beams, enclosure piping, or a custom panel. A universal projector ceiling mount rated for your projector's weight. Most short-throw and standard-throw projectors work well from this position.
Floor Mount (In Front of the Golfer)
When a ceiling mount isn't possible — maybe you're in a rental, have an unfinished ceiling, or don't want to drill — a floor mount is the go-to alternative. The projector sits on the floor between the golfer and the screen, projecting upward at the impact screen.
Requirements: A short-throw projector with a throw ratio around 0.5:1 is essentially mandatory for floor mounts. The projector needs to be close to the screen (typically 4–7 feet) to fill a full-size screen. You'll also need a protective floor enclosure or case to shield the projector from golf balls.
Downsides: Floor mounts create a tripping hazard, trap excess heat inside protective cases (which can overheat the projector in warm environments), and putting over a floor unit is awkward. The aesthetic is also significantly less clean. That said, protective floor cases from brands like TerraShield and Carl's Place have gotten much better and are a viable solution.
Side Mount / Offset — The Last Resort
Mounting the projector off to the side on a table, shelf, or tripod. This is possible, but it demands a projector with horizontal keystone correction — which is not standard on all models. The image must be digitally corrected to compensate for the angled projection, which reduces sharpness. Side mounts also frequently create uneven brightness across the screen.
If you're going this route temporarily while you figure out a permanent ceiling mount, that's fine. As a permanent solution, we strongly recommend finding another option.
💡 Pro Tip: The Floor-to-Ceiling Method
Not sure where to mount? Set the projector on the floor first and move it around until the image fills the screen perfectly. Mark that spot. The correct ceiling mount location is directly above it. Drop a plumb line from the ceiling to confirm. Simple geometry, but it works every time.
Throw Ratio Explained
Throw ratio is the single most important spec when matching a projector to your space. It defines the relationship between the distance from the projector lens to the screen and the width of the projected image.
The Formula
Throw Ratio = Distance from Lens to Screen ÷ Image Width
Example: A projector with a 0.5:1 throw ratio that's 6 feet from the screen produces a 12-foot wide image. The same projector at 5 feet produces a 10-foot wide image.
Throw Ratio Categories
| Category | Throw Ratio | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Ultra Short Throw | < 0.4:1 | Extremely tight spaces. Less common for golf sims. |
| Short Throw | 0.4:1 – 0.8:1 | Floor mounts, tight ceiling mounts. The sweet spot for compact sims. |
| Standard Throw | 0.9:1 – 1.5:1 | Ceiling mounts with more room. Most versatile category. |
| Long Throw | > 1.5:1 | Large commercial spaces, dedicated theater rooms. |
For most residential golf simulators, a short-throw projector (0.5:1) or a standard-throw with zoom (0.8–1.5:1) will work. The key is to measure your available mounting distance and your screen width, then use Projector Central's throw calculator to find projectors that match. BenQ also has a dedicated 3D golf sim room planner that calculates shadow zones — useful if you have an overhead launch monitor.
⚠️ Aspect Ratio Changes the Math
Throw ratio specs are based on the projector's native aspect ratio (usually 16:9). If your impact screen is 4:3 or 1:1, the projected image width changes — which shifts the throw distance. Always plug your actual screen aspect ratio into the calculator. Don't assume the spec sheet numbers match your screen.
Lumens & Ambient Light: How Bright Is Bright Enough?
Lumens measure how much light a projector outputs. More lumens = brighter image. But "brighter" isn't always "better" — you need to match your lumens to your environment.
What Your Space Needs
| Environment | Recommended Lumens | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Dark, light-controlled room | 2,500 – 3,500 | Basement with no windows, dedicated theater room, light-sealed space |
| Moderate ambient light | 3,500 – 4,500 | Basement with small windows, room with controllable lighting, most home sims |
| Bright ambient light | 4,500 – 5,500+ | Garage with open door, room with large windows, commercial venue with overhead lighting |
| Commercial facility | 5,000+ | Multi-bay facility with house lighting, restaurants, bars, event spaces |
Most residential golf simulators fall in the 3,500–4,500 lumen range. This covers the vast majority of basements, garages, and spare rooms with some light control. If you're building in a garage where the door will sometimes be open during the day, push toward 5,000+.
⚠️ Watch for Misleading Lumen Specs
ANSI lumens is the industry-standard brightness measurement. Some manufacturers use proprietary lumen measurements that inflate numbers by 15–20%. Optoma, for example, uses a proprietary spec on some models that measures higher than ANSI. Always compare ANSI lumens across brands for an accurate apples-to-apples comparison. BenQ and ViewSonic both publish ANSI lumen ratings.
Managing Ambient Light
Before spending more money on a brighter projector, consider what you can do to control light in your space. These low-cost improvements often deliver more impact than jumping to a higher-lumen model:
- Blackout curtains on any windows in the room — the single biggest improvement for most garage builds.
- Directed overhead lighting with track lights or snooted fixtures that keep light off the impact screen while illuminating the hitting area.
- Dark wall/ceiling paint around the screen area to reduce reflected light bouncing back.
- Smart lighting on a dimmer or scene control — turn down for play, turn up between sessions.
A well-controlled room with a 3,500-lumen projector will look better than a bright room with a 5,000-lumen projector. Light control first, lumens second.
Resolution: 1080p vs. 4K — Do You Need It?
This is the question we get asked the most. Here's our honest take after years of installing both.
1080p (1920 × 1080) — Full HD
1080p is more than adequate for the vast majority of golf simulators. At typical viewing distances (6–12 feet from the screen), most golfers cannot see a meaningful difference between 1080p and 4K in the simulated golf environment. The greens look great, the courses are immersive, and the gameplay is smooth. If golf simulation is your primary use, a high-quality 1080p laser projector with strong brightness and contrast will deliver an excellent experience.
4K UHD (3840 × 2160)
4K projectors resolve 8.3 million pixels versus 2.1 million for 1080p — a 4× increase. You'll notice the difference most in fine details: text on scoreboards, grass textures, distant trees, and course signage. The image is noticeably sharper on larger screens (12+ feet wide) where individual pixels become more visible at 1080p.
Where 4K makes the most sense:
- Larger screens (12 feet wide or more) where 1080p pixel density thins out
- Running Trackman Virtual Golf 3 or other software that renders in native 4K — VG3 in 4K is stunning
- Dual-use rooms where the projector also serves as a home theater or gaming display
- Commercial facilities where visual quality is a differentiator
The trade-off: 4K projectors cost roughly 2–3× more than comparable 1080p models, and they require a significantly more powerful GPU to drive. Check our PC guide — running Trackman VG3 in 4K requires an NVIDIA RTX 4080 or higher. If your PC can't output 4K, the projector will upscale a lower-resolution signal, and you won't get the full benefit.
✅ Our Take
For most home builds: A high-quality 1080p laser projector (BenQ AH500ST, Optoma GT2100HDR, or ViewSonic LS740HD) delivers a fantastic experience at a fraction of the 4K cost. Allocate the savings toward a better hitting mat or other components.
For premium home or commercial builds: If budget allows and you're running 4K-capable software with a powerful PC, the BenQ AK700ST or LK936ST in 4K is the top of the market.
Laser vs. Lamp: Why Laser Is the Move in 2026
In our original 2024 guide, we said lamp projectors were a fine option for budget builds. That's still technically true — but the gap has narrowed so dramatically that we now recommend laser for almost every build.
| Factor | Laser | Lamp (Bulb) |
|---|---|---|
| Lifespan | 20,000 – 30,000 hours | 3,000 – 5,000 hours |
| Brightness Fade | Maintains brightness over life | Loses ~50% brightness by 4,000 hrs |
| Maintenance | Zero — sealed, filter-free | Bulb replacements ($150–$250), filter cleaning |
| Startup Time | Instant on/off | 30–60 second warmup, cooldown required |
| Noise Level | Quieter (less heat to dissipate) | Louder fan noise |
| Power Draw | Lower (up to 45% less) | Higher |
| Mercury-Free | Yes | No (EU ban starting 2026) |
| Upfront Cost | Higher | Lower |
At 20,000–30,000 hours, a laser projector running 3 hours a day lasts 18–27 years before the light source degrades. A lamp projector at the same usage needs a new bulb every 3–5 years, with dimming brightness in between. The upfront price difference pays for itself quickly — and you never have to think about it again.
The EU's incoming mercury lamp ban is also accelerating the industry shift. Manufacturers are investing their R&D in laser, and lamp-based model availability will continue to shrink. If you're buying in 2026, buy laser.
Aspect Ratios: 16:9, 4:3, 1:1 — Matching Your Screen
Aspect ratio is the width-to-height ratio of the projected image. Most projectors natively output 16:9 (standard HD/UHD format). But your impact screen might be a different shape — and this is where confusion happens.
16:9
Widescreen. Standard for large enclosures (12'+ wide). Movies and TV content fills the screen perfectly.
4:3
Taller, narrower. Very common for residential sims in tighter rooms (10'–12' wide). Works well in garages and basements.
1:1
Square. The fastest-growing format. Maximizes screen height in compact spaces. ~75% of sim screens are non-16:9.
The critical thing: when you put a 16:9-native projector on a 4:3 or 1:1 screen, the projected image doesn't automatically match. The projector either displays black bars (letterboxing) or requires the software/graphics card to output a non-native resolution. Some projectors handle this gracefully — others don't.
BenQ's golf-specific projectors (AH500ST, AH700ST, AK700ST) have a feature called Screen Fill that natively supports 16:9, 16:10, 4:3, and 1:1 aspect ratios. The projector automatically reconfigures the image and communicates the correct resolution to your PC — no manual graphics card adjustments needed. This is a genuine differentiator and a major reason we lean toward BenQ for sim builds.
Optoma's GT2100HDR supports 4:3 display but does not natively support 1:1, and it doesn't auto-update the PC resolution when you change aspect ratios — you'll need to manually configure your graphics card settings. ViewSonic models similarly handle 16:9 and 4:3 well but don't have the same auto-fit technology.
Keystone, Lens Shift & Auto Screen Fit
Unless your projector is positioned at the exact geometric center of your screen (rare in practice), you'll need some form of image correction to get a rectangular image without distortion.
Vertical keystone: Corrects for the projector being above or below the screen center. Standard on virtually all projectors. Essential for ceiling mounts.
Horizontal keystone: Corrects for the projector being offset left or right. Not standard on all models. Required for side-mount configurations. Look for this if you can't mount directly centered on the screen.
Lens shift: A premium feature that physically moves the lens within the projector housing to shift the image up, down, or sideways — without any digital distortion or quality loss. This is significantly better than keystone correction, which digitally warps the image and reduces sharpness. The BenQ LK936ST has both vertical and horizontal lens shift, making it the most installation-flexible 4K projector for sims.
Auto Screen Fit (BenQ AH500ST, AH700ST, AK700ST): Uses built-in sensors and cameras to automatically detect the screen boundaries and align the image in seconds. BenQ reports that the most common complaint from sim owners is setup difficulty — Auto Screen Fit eliminates the trial-and-error of manual adjustment. If you've ever spent hours tweaking keystone and zoom settings, you'll appreciate this feature instantly.
4-Corner Adjustment / Warping: Allows you to independently adjust each corner of the image. Useful for screens that aren't perfectly flat or rooms where perfect alignment is impossible. Available on higher-end models from all three brands.
Our Recommended Projectors for 2026
We primarily sell and install BenQ, Optoma, and ViewSonic projectors. All three brands make excellent products. Here's what we recommend at each tier, and why.
Best Value 1080p
~$900–$1,100
Optoma GT2100HDR
| Resolution | 1080p (1920 × 1080) |
| Brightness | 4,200 lumens |
| Throw Ratio | 0.50:1 (short throw) |
| Light Source | Laser (30,000 hrs) |
| Input Lag | 8.6ms |
| HDR | HDR10 |
| Keystone | H/V + corner adjustment |
The GT2100HDR is the most popular golf simulator projector on the market and for good reason. Compact (34% smaller than previous Optoma models), energy efficient (45% less power than lamp-based), and packing 4,200 lumens in a laser short-throw package — it's hard to beat at this price point. The 0.5:1 throw ratio makes it work for both floor and ceiling mounts. Supports 4:3 aspect ratio. The only notable weakness is the lack of native 1:1 support and the absence of a dedicated golf picture mode.
Best 1080p for Golf Sims
~$1,300–$1,700
BenQ AH500ST
| Resolution | 1080p (1920 × 1080) |
| Brightness | 4,000 ANSI lumens |
| Throw Ratio | 0.50:1 (short throw) |
| Light Source | Laser (20,000 hrs) |
| Color Standard | Rec. 709 calibrated |
| Aspect Ratios | 16:9, 16:10, 4:3, 1:1 |
| Golf Mode | Yes (GSPro, E6, TGC optimized) |
| Setup | Auto Screen Fit, 3D room planner |
The AH500ST is purpose-built for golf simulators — it's not a repurposed boardroom projector. BenQ's Screen Fill technology natively supports all common screen shapes including 1:1 (the fastest growing format), and it automatically configures the PC output resolution when you change aspect ratios. Rec. 709 color calibration means greens, fairways, and sand actually look like their real-world counterparts. The dedicated Golf Mode optimizes the image for sim software. Auto Screen Fit makes installation dramatically easier than competing models. If you're building a residential sim, this is our go-to.
Best for Bright Rooms & Commercial
~$1,000–$1,200
ViewSonic LS740HD
| Resolution | 1080p (1920 × 1080) |
| Brightness | 5,000 ANSI lumens |
| Throw Ratio | 1.1–1.5:1 (standard throw) |
| Light Source | Laser (30,000 hrs) |
| Zoom | 1.3x optical |
| Keystone | H/V + 4-corner + 360° projection |
| Golf Mode | Yes |
| Rated Use | 24/7 continuous operation |
The LS740HD is the brightest projector in this roundup at 5,000 ANSI lumens, making it the standout choice for garages with ambient light, commercial venues, or any space where you can't fully control lighting. At under $1,100 it's also exceptional value for a 5,000-lumen laser projector — competitors at this brightness cost significantly more. The 1.1–1.5:1 throw ratio means it needs to be mounted further back (8–12 feet from screen for a 100" image), so it's ideal for ceiling mounts in longer rooms but not a floor-mount option. Golf Mode included. Rated for 24/7 commercial operation.
Best Value 4K
~$1,500–$1,800
ViewSonic LX700-4K
| Resolution | 4K UHD (3840 × 2160) |
| Brightness | 3,500 ANSI lumens |
| Throw Ratio | 1.06–1.45:1 (standard throw) |
| Light Source | Laser (30,000 hrs) |
| Input Lag | 4.2ms (240Hz mode) |
| HDR | HDR/HLG |
| Golf Mode | Yes |
| Lens Shift | Vertical |
The LX700-4K gives you 4K resolution with a laser light source at a price point that undercuts most competing 4K models. 3,500 lumens is adequate for controlled-light environments. The 4.2ms input lag at 240Hz makes it one of the most responsive projectors available — excellent if the room doubles for gaming. Designed for Xbox certification ensures compatibility with consoles. Standard throw ratio (1.06–1.45:1) means ceiling mount at 7–12 feet. Includes vertical lens shift for installation flexibility. The trade-off vs. BenQ's 4K models is the lack of Screen Fill technology and smaller maximum image offset.
Most Affordable 4K
~$800–$1,000
ViewSonic PX749-4K
| Resolution | 4K UHD (3840 × 2160) |
| Brightness | 4,000 ANSI lumens |
| Throw Ratio | 1.15–1.5:1 (standard throw) |
| Light Source | Lamp (up to 15,000 hrs eco mode) |
| Input Lag | 4.2ms (240Hz mode) |
| HDR | HDR/HLG |
| Zoom | 1.3x optical |
| Keystone | H/V + 4-corner + warping |
| USB-C | Yes (video + charge) |
| Speaker | Harman-tuned built-in |
If you want 4K resolution at the absolute lowest price point, the PX749-4K is the entry ticket. It's the successor to the popular PX748-4K, and at under $1,000 it delivers true 4K UHD with 4,000 lumens — bright enough for most residential builds with moderate light control. The 4.2ms input lag at 240Hz makes it excellent for dual-use rooms (golf sim + gaming console). Designed for Xbox certification ensures console compatibility. USB-C input allows direct streaming from a Nintendo Switch or laptop.
The trade-off: This is a lamp-based projector, not laser. You'll get 5,000–15,000 hours depending on mode (vs. 20,000–30,000 for laser), the bulb will dim over time, and you'll eventually need a replacement. It's also a standard throw (1.15–1.5:1), so it needs 8–12+ feet of distance and won't work for floor mounts. For budget-conscious builders who want 4K and are okay with lamp limitations, it's hard to beat the value.
Best 4K for Golf Sims
~$2,800–$3,200
BenQ AK700ST
| Resolution | 4K UHD (3840 × 2160) |
| Brightness | 4,000 ANSI lumens |
| Throw Ratio | 0.81–0.98:1 (short throw w/ zoom) |
| Light Source | Laser (20,000 hrs) |
| Aspect Ratios | 16:9, 16:10, 4:3, 1:1 |
| Golf Mode | Yes |
| Setup | Auto Screen Fit + zoom lens |
| Color Standard | Rec. 709 factory calibrated |
The AK700ST is BenQ's flagship golf simulator projector and our top recommendation for premium builds. 4K resolution with a short-throw zoom lens means it can fill a 12-foot screen from about 10 feet away — with the zoom flexibility to adjust position without image quality loss. Auto Screen Fit with 1:1 support, Rec. 709 color accuracy, Golf Mode, and the easiest setup of any 4K projector in the category. This is what we install in builds where the customer wants the best possible image quality. Pairs perfectly with Trackman Virtual Golf 3 in 4K mode.
Flagship — 4K + Home Cinema
~$4,500–$5,000
BenQ LK936ST
| Resolution | 4K UHD (3840 × 2160) |
| Brightness | 5,100 ANSI lumens |
| Contrast | 3,000,000:1 |
| Throw Ratio | 0.81–0.89:1 (short throw w/ zoom) |
| Light Source | Laser (20,000 hrs) |
| Lens Shift | Vertical + Horizontal (powered) |
| Setup | Powered zoom, keystone, warping, lens shift |
| HDR | HDR10 / HLG |
The LK936ST is the top of the line. 5,100 lumens and a 3,000,000:1 contrast ratio make it the brightest, sharpest 4K short-throw projector available for golf simulators — and it doubles as a legitimate high-end home cinema projector. Powered lens shift (both vertical and horizontal) means you can mount it off-center and adjust without any digital quality loss. Can fill a 16-foot screen from just 13 feet away. For commercial builds, dual-purpose rooms (golf sim + home theater), or clients who simply want the absolute best — this is it.
🏆 Our Top of the Line — No Compromises
~$5,500–$6,000
Optoma ZK608TST
| Resolution | True 4K UHD (3840 × 2160) |
| Brightness | 6,000 lumens |
| Contrast | 300,000:1 |
| Throw Ratio | 0.58:1 (short throw) |
| Light Source | DuraCore Laser (30,000 hrs) |
| Lens Shift | Manual H/V |
| Keystone | Auto V + H/V + 4-corner |
| HDR | HDR10 / HLG |
| Golf Sim Mode | Yes (dedicated picture mode) |
| Connectivity | 2× HDMI, HDBaseT 3.0, RS232, LAN |
| Rated Use | 24/7 (IP6X sealed optics) |
| Speakers | Built-in 15W |
This is the projector we put in builds where there are zero compromises. The Optoma ZK608TST is the most powerful short-throw 4K laser projector we sell — 6,000 lumens in a 0.58:1 short-throw package with true 4K UHD resolution. Nothing else on the market combines this level of brightness with a short-throw ratio at 4K.
Where the BenQ LK936ST wins on lens shift flexibility and color calibration, the ZK608TST wins on raw brightness and professional-grade durability. The IP6X-sealed optical engine is independently certified for continuous 24/7 operation — this is a commercial-grade projector built for environments that never shut off. HDBaseT 3.0 allows a single cable run of up to 328 feet for uncompressed 4K video, audio, and control — a huge installation advantage in commercial builds where the PC is in a separate room. Dedicated Golf Sim Picture Mode optimizes color grading for course visuals.
For premium home builds in bright spaces, multi-bay commercial facilities, or anyone who wants the brightest 4K short-throw image available — this is it.
Also Worth Considering
Optoma ZH450ST (~$1,200) — Very similar to the GT2100HDR but with a higher 2,000,000:1 contrast ratio for deeper blacks. Same 0.5:1 throw ratio, 4,200 lumens, laser, 30,000-hour lifespan. A strong alternative if you prefer Optoma and want a slight visual upgrade over the GT2100HDR.
BenQ AH700ST (~$1,700–$2,000) — The AH500ST's bigger sibling. Slightly longer throw (0.69:1) with zoom, Auto Screen Fit, and all the same golf-specific features. Better suited for rooms where the projector mounts 8+ feet from the screen.
Quick Comparison: All Recommended Models
| Model | Res. | Lumens | Throw | Light | 1:1 | Golf Mode | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Optoma GT2100HDR | 1080p | 4,200 | 0.50:1 | Laser | ❌ | ❌ | ~$1,000 |
| ViewSonic LS740HD | 1080p | 5,000 | 1.1–1.5:1 | Laser | ❌ | ✅ | ~$1,000 |
| BenQ AH500ST | 1080p | 4,000 | 0.50:1 | Laser | ✅ | ✅ | ~$1,500 |
| ViewSonic LX700-4K | 4K | 3,500 | 1.06–1.45:1 | Laser | ❌ | ✅ | ~$1,700 |
| ViewSonic PX749-4K | 4K | 4,000 | 1.15–1.5:1 | Lamp | ❌ | ❌ | ~$900 |
| BenQ AK700ST | 4K | 4,000 | 0.81–0.98:1 | Laser | ✅ | ✅ | ~$3,000 |
| BenQ LK936ST | 4K | 5,100 | 0.81–0.89:1 | Laser | ✅ | ✅ | ~$4,800 |
| Optoma ZK608TST 🏆 | 4K | 6,000 | 0.58:1 | Laser | ❌ | ✅ | ~$5,800 |
Need Help Choosing a Projector?
Tell us your room dimensions, screen size, and budget — we'll recommend the right projector and calculate mounting positions for your build.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far from the screen should the projector be mounted?
There's no universal answer — it depends on your projector's throw ratio and your screen width. Use Projector Central's calculator to find the exact distance for your specific model and screen size. For ceiling-mounted projectors, we recommend staying between 8–14 feet from the screen to avoid ball strikes (too close) and golfer shadows (too far).
Can I use a regular home theater projector for a golf simulator?
Yes, but you may run into issues. Home theater projectors are often optimized for dark rooms with low lumens and longer throw ratios. Golf simulators need higher brightness (3,500+ lumens), lower input lag, and often shorter throw distances. Golf-specific models from BenQ also include Screen Fill technology for non-standard aspect ratios and dedicated Golf picture modes that generic home theater projectors lack.
Is 4K worth the extra cost for a golf simulator?
For most home builds, a quality 1080p laser projector delivers an excellent experience. The jump to 4K makes the most noticeable difference on screens wider than 12 feet, with 4K-native software like Trackman Virtual Golf 3, and in dual-use rooms (golf + home cinema). You also need a powerful GPU — an RTX 4070 Ti or higher — to drive 4K output. If your budget allows and you have the PC to support it, 4K is beautiful. If not, invest in a great 1080p laser model.
My screen is 4:3 aspect ratio — will any projector work?
Most projectors can display a 4:3 image, but the quality of implementation varies. BenQ's golf-specific projectors (AH500ST, AH700ST, AK700ST) natively support 4:3 with their Screen Fill feature and automatically configure your PC's output resolution. With other projectors, you may need to manually set the resolution in your graphics card settings and accept some letterboxing or image cropping. It works, but BenQ makes it easier.
Will the projector get hit by a golf ball?
If ceiling-mounted at least 8 feet from the screen and mounted above or behind the golfer's swing arc — extremely unlikely. We've done 50+ installs and have never had a ceiling-mounted projector take a ball strike. Floor-mounted projectors have a much higher risk and should always be used with a protective enclosure.
Should I buy a lamp projector to save money?
We don't recommend it in 2026. Laser 1080p projectors start around $900–$1,100 (Optoma GT2100HDR, ViewSonic LS740HD) and deliver 20,000–30,000 hours of maintenance-free operation. A lamp projector might save $200–$400 upfront but will need $150–$250 bulb replacements every few years, dimming brightness in between. The total cost of ownership favors laser, and you'll have a better experience from day one.
Does Launch House install projectors?
Yes. Projector selection and installation is part of every simulator build we do. We calculate throw distances, plan mounting positions around your launch monitor, run cables, and calibrate the image as part of the installation. Contact us to get started.
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