Optoma UHD35STx Projector Review: Is This Budget Short Throw Projector Worth It?

windstri85

New member

First Impressions​

When I first unboxed the Optoma UHD38, I was struck by its solid build quality and sleek design. It certainly feels more premium compared to my previous projector, and the weight gives it a sturdy presence. The matte finish and modern aesthetic make it a visually appealing addition to my home theater setup. The projector’s layout is clean, with clearly labeled ports and controls, making it easy to integrate into my existing system without any clutter.

Introduce​

Parameter
Optoma UHD35STx Projector​
Picture​
OptomaUHD35STxProjector.jpg
Reference Price​
$1549​
Recommended Uses​
Gaming​
Built-In Media​
UHD35STx, AC power cord, remote control, 2x AAA batteries, basic user manual​
Highlight
TRUE 4K ULTRA HD: Experience high-quality home cinema with 8.3 million distinct addressable on-screen pixels
FAST GAMING RESPONSE: Enjoy ultra-fast 240Hz gaming for blur-free visuals and unparalleled smoothness with a response time of just 4ms at 1080p
SHORT THROW FOR FLEXIBLE SETUP: The UHD35STx is designed to be placed closer to the wall than standard throw projectors. Project a 100” image from just over three feet away and create an immersive experience in just about any space
ULTRA HIGH CONTRAST RATIO: A 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio provides clarity and detail in both bright and dark scenes

Display​

Parameter
Optoma UHD35STx Projector​
Screen Size​
N/A - 300 Inches​
Throw Distance​
0.4 Meters - 3.3 Meters​
Contrast Ratio​
1000000:1​
Maximum Resolution​
3840 x 2160 Pixels​
Native Resolution​
3840 x 2160​
Brightness​
3600 lumen​
Display Type​
DLP​
Viewing Experience
The viewing experience has been predominantly excellent, with the UHD38 producing bright, vibrant colors and sharp images. Even in moderately lit rooms, the picture remains clear and engaging, although I found the blacks to be slightly less impressive compared to my previous Epson projector. The HDR performance is decent, but there are moments when the dynamic brightness shifts can be distracting. Overall, the projector excels in delivering a cinematic experience, especially for movies and gaming, with minimal input lag making it suitable for fast-paced action.

Features​

Parameter
Optoma UHD35STx Projector​
Video Encoding​
HEVC​
LightSource Life​
10000 Hours​
Controller Type​
Remote Control​
Control Method​
Remote​
Lamp Wattage​
240 Watts​
Wattage​
310 watts​
Connectivity Technology​
USB, HDMI
Hardware Connectivity​
USB, HDMI
Compatible Devices​
Gaming Console, Television​
Other Features​
4K UHD, Short Throw Projection​
L x W x H​
12.4"L x 10.63"W x 4.53"H​
System Experience
Setting up the UHD38 was relatively straightforward, especially since I was able to reuse my existing mounting equipment from the previous projector. The process was seamless, thanks to the 4-corner adjustment feature that allowed me to fine-tune the image perfectly. However, I did encounter some challenges with the limited zoom factor and the absence of horizontal or vertical lens shift, which meant I had to ensure precise placement for an optimal image. The keystone correction worked well, but I was cautious about using it too much due to the potential impact on image quality.

User Feedback​

Pros:
- Excellent brightness and vibrant color reproduction
- Easy setup with 4-corner adjustment feature
- Low input lag for gaming
- Solid build quality and modern design

Cons:
- Limited zoom and lack of lens shift
- Blacks could be deeper and contrast could be improved
- Fan noise can be noticeable in bright mode
- Remote control lacks responsiveness and requires direct line of sight

Overall Impression:
My overall impression of the Optoma UHD38 is largely positive. It has certainly surpassed my expectations in terms of picture quality and brightness, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a solid 4K projector at a reasonable price. While there are some drawbacks, such as the limited zoom and the need for careful placement, these are manageable given the outstanding viewing experience it provides. Despite a few minor issues, I feel confident in recommending the UHD38 to fellow home theater enthusiasts, particularly for those who prioritize vibrant visuals and smooth gaming performance.
 

GreatKangaroo

New member
Snagged a sweet deal on a refurbished projector and decided to give it a shot. It looks brand new and works like a charm! Had to tweak some cables compared to my old 142, but got it sorted. It’s about 14 feet away from my 100" screen and the video quality is a big step up from my old 142X. This might be the last projector I buy!
 

Wwalmarts

New member
Awesome picture even in the daytime! At night, I use eco mode so it’s not too bright. The remote kinda sucks, and the sound isn't great either—volume jumps from 0 to 10, and 1 is way too loud. No Bluetooth, so I got a Bluetooth transmitter (1Mii B03) to hook it up to my soundbar, and it works perfectly!
 

Byte_hoven

New member
Got this new projector to swap out my old one, and I'm super happy with it! Super easy to install on the ceiling and the picture looks awesome!
 
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