Throw Distance Calculator for Golf Simulator Projectors (Free Tool)

Throw Distance Calculator for Golf Simulator Projectors (Free Tool)

How to Use the Throw Distance Calculator

This tool uses one simple projector rule: Throw Ratio = Throw Distance ÷ Image Width. You can calculate either your image width (screen width) or your projector mounting distance.

Option A: I know my mounting distance (Left Box)

  1. Measure the distance from the projector lens to the impact screen (in feet).
  2. Enter that number into Throw Distance (feet).
  3. Enter your projector’s Throw Ratio (found on the product specs).
  4. Click Calculate Image Width.

✅ Use this if your ceiling mount position is fixed and you want to know how wide your screen/image can be.

Option B: I know my screen width (Right Box)

  1. Measure your impact screen’s usable width (in feet).
  2. Enter that number into Image Width (feet).
  3. Enter your projector’s Throw Ratio.
  4. Click Calculate Throw Distance.

✅ Use this if you already have a screen/enclosure and need to know exactly where to mount the projector.

Where to Find Throw Ratio

Throw ratio is listed in projector specs (BenQ, Epson, Optoma, etc.). Short-throw golf simulator projectors are often around 0.69 – 0.85, but always use the exact model’s spec for best accuracy.

Quick Example

  • Screen width = 13.5 ft and throw ratio = 0.80 → mount distance ≈ 10.8 ft.
  • Mount distance = 10 ft and throw ratio = 0.80 → image width ≈ 12.5 ft.

Tip: Measure from the lens (not the back of the projector) to the screen for the most accurate result.

Golf Projector Throw Distance Calculator

Use this calculator to quickly find the ideal image width or throw distance for your golf simulator projector. Enter any two values and we’ll calculate the third.

Most golf sims use 16:9. Choose what you plan to build.

Throw Distance ➜ Image Width

Throw Distance (feet) Measure from the projector lens to the impact screen. Select your BenQ model to auto-fill the throw ratio. Auto-filled from model selection (you can override if needed).

Result will appear here.

Image Width ➜ Throw Distance

Measure the usable white screen area, not the enclosure frame. Select your BenQ model to auto-fill the throw ratio. Auto-filled from model selection (you can override if needed).

Result will appear here.

Formula reminder: Throw Ratio = Throw Distance ÷ Image Width.
So Image Width = Throw Distance ÷ Throw Ratio, and Throw Distance = Image Width × Throw Ratio.

Throw Distance Calculator for Golf Simulator Projectors (Free Tool)

Choosing the right projector for your golf simulator comes down to one critical measurement: throw distance. If the projector is too close, the image won’t fill the screen. If it’s too far, the picture will spill outside your enclosure or lose brightness.

To make planning easier, we created a free throw distance calculator designed specifically for golf simulator projectors like the BenQ AH500ST, AH700ST, and LK936ST.

Simply enter your screen width, select your projector model, and we’ll show you the recommended mounting distance—no guesswork required.

How Throw Distance Affects Your Golf Simulator

Throw distance determines how large your projected image will be. Short-throw projectors are popular for golf simulators because they can create a wide image while sitting close to the screen. This helps prevent shadows and keeps the projector out of the swing path.

When planning your simulator layout, you must consider:

  • Screen width — the wider your screen, the more distance your projector may need
  • Room depth — shallow rooms may require short-throw lenses
  • Mounting position — ideal placement is typically above or slightly behind the golfer

If you’re not sure which projector fits your room, check out our Golf HQs projector collection.

Recommended Projectors for Golf Simulators

  • BenQ AH500ST – Short-throw laser projector for smaller rooms.
    View AH500ST
  • BenQ AH700ST – Best all-around short-throw projector.
    View AH700ST
  • BenQ LK936ST – Premium 4K laser projection for large bays.
    View LK936ST

Throw Distance FAQ

What is throw distance?

Throw distance is the distance between the projector lens and the impact screen.

Why do golf simulators use short-throw projectors?

Short-throw lenses allow you to mount the projector close to the screen so your body and club don’t cast shadows.

How do I know where to mount my projector?

Use the calculator above to estimate distance, then check your projector’s throw ratio spec sheet before installing.

What happens if I mount the projector too far back?

The image may become too large for your enclosure, or brightness may decrease.

Can Golf HQs help me choose the right projector?

Yes! Contact us for personalized recommendations based on your room size.

 

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