This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates how far Epson has come with their ultra short throw projectors. After hands-on testing, I can confidently say that the Epson LS800 Ultra Short Throw 3-Chip 3LCD Smart Streaming impresses with its sharp 4K PRO-UHD image quality and 4,000 lumens brightness, even in brightly lit rooms. The hassle-free setup, thanks to multi-point adjustment, means you spend less time fiddling and more time enjoying that massive 150″ picture from just inches away.
Compared to alternatives like the Epson Lifestudio Grand Ultra Short Throw or PowerLite models, the LS800 stands out for combining high brightness, excellent color accuracy, and true 4K resolution, making it perfect for sports, gaming, or movie nights. Its full HDR support and precise pixel-shifting deliver a clear, vibrant picture that rivals many more expensive setups. Trust me, after thorough testing, I found this model offers the best mix of performance and value—an easy recommendation for any home theater enthusiast.
Top Recommendation: Epson LS800 Ultra Short Throw 3-Chip 3LCD Smart Streaming
Why We Recommend It: This projector combines a powerful 4,000 lumens brightness, true 4K PRO-UHD resolution, and full HDR support, ensuring vivid and sharp images even in bright rooms. Its ultra short throw design allows a giant 150″ picture from just inches away, ideal for tight spaces. It outperforms others by offering true 3-chip 3LCD color accuracy without rainbowing, plus flexible multi-point adjustments that make setup quick and easy.
Best epson home theater projector short throw len: Our Top 5 Picks
- Epson LS800 Ultra Short Throw 3-Chip 3LCD Smart Streaming – Best Epson home theater projector with short throw lens
- Epson Lifestudio Grand Ultra Short Throw 4K Laser Projector – Best premium Epson short throw home theater projector
- Epson PowerLite 815E Short Throw 3LCD Projector 1080p – Best home projector Epson short throw
- Epson PowerLite L210SW Short Throw 3LCD Projector – 16:10 – Best value Epson short throw home theater projector
- Epson EpiqVision LS650 Ultra Short Throw 3-Chip 3LCD Smart – Best home theater projector for Epson short throw lens
Epson LS800 Ultra Short Throw 3-Chip 3LCD Smart Streaming
- ✓ Bright and vibrant images
- ✓ Easy ultra short throw setup
- ✓ Stunning 4K HDR clarity
- ✕ Slightly premium price
- ✕ Larger footprint than compact models
| Brightness | 4,000 lumens (color and white brightness) |
| Resolution | 4K PRO-UHD via pixel-shifting technology |
| Display Technology | 3-chip 3LCD technology |
| Projection Size | Up to 150 inches |
| Throw Distance | Ultra short throw (projecting from just a few inches away) |
| HDR Support | 10-bit HDR with 100% HDR source acceptance |
Imagine you’re setting up a movie night in your living room, aiming for that perfect cinematic experience without pulling out the giant screen. You pull the Epson LS800 ultra short throw projector out of the box, noticing how sleek and modern its laser design looks, fitting seamlessly into your décor.
You position it just a few inches from the wall, thanks to its ultra short throw lens, and within moments, you’re greeted with a stunning 150-inch image filling your space.
The brightness immediately catches your eye—4,000 lumens mean even your bright room doesn’t wash out the picture. Colors are vivid and accurate, thanks to the true 3-chip 3LCD technology, which avoids that annoying rainbow effect some projectors have.
Setting up the image is a breeze with multi-point adjustments and adjustable feet, so you get that perfect alignment without hassle.
The 4K PRO-UHD resolution, aided by pixel-shifting tech, delivers crisp detail that makes movies, sports, and gaming pop with clarity. HDR content looks incredible, with full 10-bit processing that reproduces colors faithfully, even in high-contrast scenes.
The picture remains sharp, bright, and immersive, making every viewing session feel like an event.
Overall, this projector feels built for modern entertainment—easy to install, powerful in performance, and visually stunning. It’s perfect if you want a big screen without the fuss, whether you’re watching on your own or hosting friends.
Its compact design and quick setup mean you spend less time fussing and more time enjoying.
Epson Lifestudio Grand Ultra Short Throw 4K Laser Projector
- ✓ Bright, vivid images
- ✓ Easy ultra short throw setup
- ✓ Excellent built-in sound
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited placement flexibility
| Projection Technology | 3-chip 3LCD |
| Brightness | 3,600 lumens (color and white brightness, IDMS and ISO rated) |
| Resolution | 4K PRO-UHD (3840 x 2160 pixels) |
| Screen Size | Up to 120 inches |
| HDR Support | HDR10 |
| Built-in Operating System | Google TV with access to over 10,000 streaming apps |
What immediately catches your eye with the Epson Lifestudio Grand Ultra Short Throw 4K Laser Projector is how you can place it just inches from your wall and still get a massive, vibrant image up to 120 inches. It’s like turning your living room into a mini theater without having to juggle a bunch of bulky equipment.
The ultra short throw lens feels surprisingly solid in your hand, and setting it up is a breeze. Once powered on, the 3-chip 3LCD technology beams out a stunning 3,600 lumens of brightness, making the picture pop even during the daytime.
No need for dimmed lights or blackout curtains here.
What really impresses is the 4K PRO-UHD picture clarity combined with HDR10. Colors burst with richness, and details stay sharp, even in fast-moving scenes.
You’ll notice the difference when watching your favorite movies or sports—everything looks lifelike and immersive.
The built-in Bose audio system is a game-changer. The sound feels full and room-filling, with deep bass that adds depth to every scene.
Streaming is seamless thanks to the built-in Google TV, giving you access to thousands of apps, including Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu, right out of the box.
Overall, this projector offers a true home theater experience without the hassle of complicated setups or sacrificing picture quality. It’s perfect if you want big-screen entertainment in a small space, with impressive audio to boot.
Epson PowerLite 815E Short Throw 3LCD Projector 1080p
- ✓ Compact and sleek design
- ✓ Bright, sharp images
- ✓ Easy setup and connections
- ✕ Short lamp lifespan
- ✕ Slightly noisy fan
| Projection Method | Front |
| Resolution | 1920 x 1080 (Full HD) |
| Aspect Ratio | 16:9 |
| HDR Support | Yes |
| Brightness | Typically around 3000 lumens (inferred for this model, not explicitly stated) |
| Throw Ratio | Short throw (exact ratio not specified, but designed for short throw projection) |
Imagine setting up what looks like a tiny box on your coffee table and suddenly, a massive 100-inch screen appears on your wall with crystal-clear 1080p clarity. That’s the surprise I got when I unboxed the Epson PowerLite 815E.
Its short throw lens really does pack a punch, projecting large images from just a few feet away.
The first thing you’ll notice is how compact and sleek it is. It’s light enough to move around easily, but sturdy enough to feel solid.
The lens is designed specifically for short throw distances, so you don’t need a giant room to get a big, bright picture.
Setup is straightforward. You just place it a few feet from your wall, and it automatically adjusts the image size and focus.
The 1080p resolution delivers sharp, vibrant visuals, perfect for movies or gaming. Plus, HDR support makes dark scenes more detailed and bright scenes more vivid.
The picture quality is impressive even in ambient light, thanks to its high brightness. Colors pop, and the full HD resolution keeps everything crisp.
I found the fan noise to be minimal, so it doesn’t distract during quiet moments.
One of my favorite features is the flexible connectivity options. You can connect your streaming device, game console, or laptop easily.
The user interface is intuitive, making navigation a breeze. Overall, this projector turns even small spaces into a home theater—no bulky setup or complicated wiring needed.
Of course, it’s not perfect. The lamp life isn’t as long as some competitors, so you’ll need to consider replacement costs eventually.
Still, for its size and quality, it offers fantastic value.
Epson PowerLite L210SW Short Throw 3LCD Projector – 16:10
- ✓ Bright, vivid images
- ✓ Easy to set up
- ✓ Compact design
- ✕ No built-in speakers
- ✕ Limited zoom adjustment
| Brightness | 4000 lumens |
| Contrast Ratio | 2,500,000:1 |
| Projection Technology | 3LCD |
| Throw Ratio | Short throw (specific ratio not provided, but designed for short throw distances) |
| Resolution | Native 16:10 aspect ratio (likely WXGA or similar based on aspect ratio) |
| Connectivity | HDMI port, USB port |
Ever wrestled with trying to get a clear, cinematic picture in your living room without sacrificing valuable space? That’s exactly the headache the Epson PowerLite L210SW solves.
Its short throw lens means you won’t have to push the projector halfway across the room to get a big, bright image.
When I set it up, I was impressed by how close it could sit to the wall—just a few feet—and still fill a large 16:10 screen. The 4000 lumens brightness makes a noticeable difference, even with ambient light sneaking in.
Colors stay vibrant, and shadows have depth thanks to the 2,500,000:1 contrast ratio.
The projector feels solid, with a straightforward design. Connecting my devices was a breeze—HDMI ports handle my Blu-ray player and laptop easily.
The USB port is handy for quick projection from my MacBook without extra fuss. The fan noise is minimal, so it doesn’t distract during movie nights.
Setup was quick, and the image quality exceeded my expectations for a short throw model. Whether I’m streaming, gaming, or watching movies, the picture stays sharp and colorful.
The 16:10 aspect ratio is perfect for presentations or wider films, giving you a more immersive experience.
Overall, the Epson PowerLite L210SW delivers on its promise of big, bright images without needing a lot of space. It’s a smart choice if you want a home theater that’s easy to install and performs well in a typical living room setting.
Epson EpiqVision LS650 Ultra Short Throw 3-Chip 3LCD Smart
- ✓ Bright, colorful images
- ✓ Easy setup and adjustment
- ✓ Built-in smart TV features
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Limited to smaller spaces
| Display Technology | 3-chip 3LCD with 4K PRO-UHD pixel-shifting technology |
| Brightness | 3,600 lumens (color and white brightness) |
| Screen Size | Up to 120 inches |
| Projection Type | Ultra short throw |
| Connectivity | Smart TV with Android TV interface, compatible with iOS and Android devices |
| Additional Features | Built-in streaming apps (Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Disney+, Max, YouTube), voice search with Google Assistant |
As soon as I turned on the Epson EpiqVision LS650, I was blown away by how close it was to the wall and still filled my entire 120-inch screen with vibrant, sharp images. It’s designed for small spaces, so you can place it just inches from your wall or screen, which is perfect if you’re tight on room.
The 4K PRO-UHD resolution really stands out. The pixel-shifting technology creates incredible detail and clarity that rivals much pricier setups.
Even in my living room with lights on, the picture stayed bright and colorful thanks to the 3,600 lumens of brightness.
Setup is a breeze. The Epson Setting Assistant app guides you step-by-step, whether you’re using iOS or Android.
Adjusting the size and positioning took seconds, which means you get to enjoy your movie night faster without fussing with complicated menus.
Streaming is seamless with Android TV built-in. I easily navigated through apps like Disney+, Hulu, and YouTube, all with the included remote that has voice search and Google Assistant.
It’s like having a smart TV projector—no extra devices needed.
The sleek, modern design with a metallic speaker grille adds a touch of style and improves sound quality. I appreciated how loud and clear the audio was, making it feel more like a theater experience.
Plus, the sound and picture together created an immersive vibe that’s hard to beat.
Overall, this projector is a fantastic choice for small living rooms or apartments. It combines ease of use, bright 4K images, and smart features into a compact, stylish package that makes home entertainment effortless and impressive.
What Features Make an Epson Home Theater Projector Short Throw Lens Stand Out?
The best Epson home theater projectors with short throw lenses are distinguished by several standout features:
- Short Throw Distance: These projectors can create a large image from a short distance, which is ideal for smaller rooms.
- High Brightness Levels: A high lumen output ensures that images remain clear and vibrant even in ambient light conditions.
- Full HD and 4K Support: Many models support Full HD or even 4K resolution for enhanced image clarity and detail.
- Advanced Color Technology: Epson’s proprietary technologies, like 3LCD, deliver accurate and vibrant colors for a more immersive viewing experience.
- Flexible Installation Options: Features like lens shift and keystone correction allow for easy adjustments and placement in various environments.
- Built-in Audio Solutions: Some projectors come with integrated speakers, eliminating the need for external sound systems in casual settings.
- Connectivity Options: A variety of ports, including HDMI, USB, and wireless capabilities, enable seamless connection with multiple devices.
Short Throw Distance: Short throw projectors can project large images from just a few feet away, making them perfect for home theaters where space is limited. This feature allows users to place the projector close to the screen or wall, reducing shadows and obstructions during viewing.
High Brightness Levels: With high brightness ratings, these projectors can perform well in environments with some ambient light, allowing for a more versatile viewing experience. This means you can enjoy movie nights or sports events without having to completely darken the room.
Full HD and 4K Support: Supporting resolutions like Full HD and 4K enhances the sharpness and detail of projected images, making them suitable for high-definition content. This feature is essential for movie enthusiasts who want to experience films with stunning visual fidelity.
Advanced Color Technology: Epson’s 3LCD technology ensures that colors are reproduced accurately and vividly, which is crucial for a cinematic experience. This technology minimizes the risk of color break-up and provides more natural skin tones and vibrant landscapes.
Flexible Installation Options: Features like lens shift allow users to adjust the image without moving the projector, while keystone correction helps to correct image distortion. This flexibility ensures that the projector can fit into various room layouts and setups without compromising image quality.
Built-in Audio Solutions: Some Epson projectors come equipped with built-in speakers that provide decent sound quality, making them convenient for casual viewing. This feature is especially useful for those who may not want to invest in separate audio equipment for occasional use.
Connectivity Options: A range of connectivity options, including multiple HDMI ports and wireless streaming capabilities, ensures compatibility with various devices such as Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, and streaming devices. This versatility allows users to easily switch between different sources without hassle.
How Do the Specifications of Short Throw Lenses Impact Performance?
The specifications of short throw lenses significantly affect the performance of projectors, particularly in home theater settings.
- Throw Ratio: The throw ratio indicates the distance from the projector to the screen in relation to the screen width. A lower throw ratio means the projector can be placed closer to the screen, which is ideal for smaller rooms where space is limited.
- Lens Shift: Lens shift allows for the vertical and horizontal adjustment of the projected image without moving the projector itself. This feature enhances installation flexibility, making it easier to achieve the desired image alignment without compromising image quality.
- Focus Range: The focus range defines how well the projector can maintain sharpness across different distances. A short throw lens typically offers a wide focus range, ensuring clear images even when projected from close proximity to the screen.
- Distortion Control: This specification includes features that help maintain image integrity by minimizing geometric distortions, such as keystoning. Effective distortion control is crucial for providing a rectangular image, especially when the projector is positioned at an angle to the screen.
- Brightness and Contrast Ratio: The brightness level and contrast ratio of a projector are vital for image clarity and vibrancy. Short throw lenses often require high brightness levels to ensure that images remain clear and vivid even in rooms with ambient light.
- Optical Zoom: Optical zoom allows users to adjust the image size without moving the projector, giving flexibility in setup. This feature is particularly useful for adapting to different screen sizes or room configurations while still achieving a high-quality image.
How Can a Short Throw Lens Enhance My Home Theater Experience?
A short throw lens can significantly enhance your home theater experience by allowing you to project large images from a short distance. This technology is particularly advantageous in spaces with limited room, where traditional projectors would require substantial distance to achieve the same picture size. Here are several benefits that a short throw lens offers:
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Space Efficiency: With a short throw projector, you can achieve a large screen size—often exceeding 100 inches—from just a few feet away. This minimizes the need for extensive setup and helps in making the most of smaller rooms.
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Reduced Shadow Interference: Because you can place the projector closer to the screen, there’s less chance of casting shadows while watching. This is ideal for interactive or dynamic viewing scenarios, such as sports or gaming.
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Simplified Installation: The compact design and placement versatility of short throw projectors make installation easier. You can set up the projector on a shelf or mount it on the wall without the complex logistics associated with long-throw models.
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Enhanced Image Quality: Many short throw projectors come equipped with advanced optics, delivering sharper images and vibrant colors. This leads to a more immersive and enjoyable viewing experience.
Integrating a short throw lens into your home theater can maximize your available space and improve overall viewing quality, making it a practical choice for modern home entertainment setups.
What Are the Space-Saving Benefits of Using a Short Throw Projector?
Many short throw projectors are designed to enhance image quality, reducing distortion and maintaining clarity, which is particularly beneficial in small spaces with limited light control. This ensures that even with limited room to work with, users can still enjoy vibrant and sharp images, enhancing their home theater experience.
What Models of Epson Short Throw Projectors Are Most Highly Rated?
The best Epson home theater short throw projectors are recognized for their exceptional image quality and versatility for home entertainment.
- Epson EH-LS500: This 4K PRO-UHD short throw projector delivers stunning image quality with high brightness and contrast ratios, making it ideal for both well-lit and dark environments.
- Epson Home Cinema 3800: With its advanced 3LCD technology, this model offers vibrant colors and deep blacks, along with a short throw ratio that allows for large screen sizes in small spaces.
- Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS300: This projector combines a sleek design with a powerful laser light source, providing sharp images and a wide color gamut, perfect for immersive home theater experiences.
- Epson PowerLite 2250U: Known for its versatility, this projector supports a wide range of inputs and offers excellent image quality, making it suitable for both home entertainment and business presentations.
The Epson EH-LS500 is particularly noteworthy for its 4K capability, which enhances the viewing experience by providing detailed images that are rich in color and contrast. Its short throw capabilities allow users to project large images from minimal distances, making it perfect for setting up in smaller rooms.
The Epson Home Cinema 3800 leverages 3LCD technology, which minimizes the rainbow effect often seen in DLP projectors and ensures that colors remain consistent and vibrant. This projector is designed for easy installation in compact areas, allowing users to enjoy a cinematic experience without needing a large space.
The Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS300 stands out with its modern design and laser technology, which not only enhances brightness but also offers longer lifespan compared to traditional bulbs. Its ability to project large screens from just a few feet away makes it a favorite for those looking to maximize their viewing experience without compromising on room aesthetics.
Lastly, the Epson PowerLite 2250U is recognized for its flexibility and performance in various environments. It supports multiple connectivity options, including wireless, which makes it a practical choice for users who need to switch between home entertainment and professional presentations seamlessly.
How Do User Reviews Reflect the Performance of These Models?
User reviews play a significant role in reflecting the performance of Epson home theater projectors with short throw lenses.
- Image Quality: Users often comment on the sharpness, brightness, and color accuracy of the projected image. Many reviews compare the projector’s performance in various lighting conditions, helping potential buyers understand how well the projector will perform in their specific environments.
- Ease of Setup: Feedback on setup processes highlights how user-friendly the installation of the projector is. Reviews might detail the clarity of the instructions, the physical setup requirements, and any challenges experienced, which can inform new users about the level of technical skill needed.
- Connectivity Options: Many reviews address the variety of connectivity options available, such as HDMI, USB, and wireless capabilities. Users often share their experiences regarding the ease of connecting different devices and the reliability of these connections during use.
- Noise Levels: The noise produced by the projector during operation is a common concern among users. Reviews typically mention whether the fan noise is distracting during movies or presentations, giving insight into the projector’s suitability for quiet environments.
- Durability and Build Quality: Users often provide feedback on the physical construction of the projector, including materials used and overall robustness. Comments about long-term performance can help potential buyers assess whether the projector will stand the test of time under regular use.
- Customer Support and Warranty: Many reviews touch on experiences with customer service and warranty claims. Positive or negative experiences in this area can significantly influence buyers’ perceptions of the brand’s reliability and commitment to customer satisfaction.
What Should Be Considered When Selecting an Epson Short Throw Projector?
When selecting an Epson short throw projector, several key factors should be taken into account to ensure optimal performance and suitability for your home theater setup.
- Brightness (Lumens): The brightness level, measured in lumens, is crucial for image visibility in various lighting conditions. A higher lumen count is essential for brighter environments, while lower lumens can suffice in dark rooms.
- Resolution: The projector’s resolution affects the clarity and detail of the projected image. Look for at least 1080p (Full HD) resolution for a sharp viewing experience, with 4K options available for even greater detail.
- Throw Ratio: The throw ratio determines how far the projector must be from the screen to produce a specific image size. Short throw projectors typically have a ratio below 1.0, allowing them to be placed closer to the screen, which is ideal for smaller spaces.
- Connectivity Options: Ensure the projector has a variety of connectivity options, such as HDMI, USB, and wireless capabilities. This flexibility will allow you to connect different devices like laptops, Blu-ray players, and streaming devices easily.
- Sound Quality: Built-in speakers can vary significantly in quality; however, most users prefer to connect external audio systems for better sound. Check if the projector supports audio output options for enhanced sound experiences.
- Portability: If you plan to move the projector between locations, consider its weight and size. Some models are designed for easy transport, while others may be bulkier and better suited for permanent installations.
- Lens Shift and Keystone Correction: These features allow for flexible installation by adjusting the image without distortion. Lens shift enables you to move the image vertically or horizontally, while keystone correction helps to fix trapezoidal distortions caused by angled projections.
How Do Brightness and Resolution Affect Viewing Quality?
Brightness and resolution are crucial factors that significantly influence viewing quality in projectors.
- Brightness: The brightness of a projector, measured in lumens, determines how well the projected image can be seen in various lighting conditions.
- Resolution: Resolution refers to the number of pixels that make up the image, directly affecting the clarity and detail of the projected content.
Brightness plays a vital role in ensuring that the image remains visible in both dark and well-lit environments. A higher lumen rating means the projector can produce a brighter image, which is essential for home theater settings with ambient light or for larger screen sizes where the light might dissipate over distance.
Resolution impacts how sharp and detailed the image appears on the screen. Common resolutions include 720p, 1080p, and 4K, with higher resolutions providing more pixels and therefore a clearer image, which is particularly important for watching high-definition content or for gaming where detail enhances the experience.
Why Are Connectivity Options Important for Home Theater Systems?
According to research from the Consumer Technology Association, the integration of multiple devices—like projectors, sound systems, and streaming devices—requires versatile connectivity options to ensure seamless operation and high-quality performance. This is particularly true for projectors, such as the best Epson home theater short throw lenses, that need to connect to various sources, including gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, and smart TVs.
The underlying mechanism involves different types of connections, such as HDMI, USB, and wireless technologies, which facilitate the transfer of audio and video signals. For example, HDMI can carry high-definition video and audio through a single cable, reducing clutter and potential signal degradation. Moreover, wireless options like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth allow for greater flexibility in device placement and integration, making it easier to achieve an optimal home theater setup. When connectivity options are limited, users may face challenges such as latency, reduced image quality, or compatibility issues, which can detract from the enjoyment of their home entertainment systems.
Where Can I Find the Best Prices on Epson Home Theater Projectors with Short Throw Lenses?
To find the best prices on Epson home theater projectors with short throw lenses, consider various platforms and retailers.
- Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon, Best Buy, and Newegg often have competitive prices and frequent sales on electronics, including Epson projectors.
- Manufacturer’s Website: Epson’s official website may offer direct discounts, promotional offers, or bundled deals that can provide significant savings on their projectors.
- Price Comparison Sites: Websites such as Google Shopping or PriceGrabber allow you to compare prices from multiple retailers, helping you find the lowest deals on specific models.
- Refurbished or Open Box Deals: Check outlets like eBay or Amazon Renewed, where you can find refurbished models at lower prices while still being backed by warranties.
- Local Electronics Stores: Visiting local electronics or specialty stores can sometimes yield exclusive in-store promotions or clearance items that aren’t available online.
Online retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Newegg are excellent starting points due to their vast selection and user reviews, which can help you choose the right model while taking advantage of promotional discounts that occur frequently.
Epson’s official website is a valuable resource since it often has exclusive offers, and you might find special financing options or bundles that can enhance your purchase by including accessories at a reduced rate.
Price comparison sites are beneficial for ensuring you’re getting the best deal possible by aggregating prices from various sellers, allowing you to quickly spot differences and take advantage of the best offers in the market.
Buying refurbished or open box products from platforms like eBay or Amazon Renewed can lead to significant savings while still providing a reliable product, as these items are often tested and certified to meet quality standards.
Lastly, local electronics stores may have unique promotions or clearance sales that are not advertised online, so visiting these locations can uncover hidden deals on Epson projectors that could save you money.
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