Our take
The InFocus IN1501 is a compact XGA short-throw projector for business presentations and home video. Its model guide distinguishes its native 1024 × 768 panel from the WXGA IN1503, and it documents VGA, HDMI, composite and USB DisplayLink computer input. The rear zoom ring and 120% ±5% offset help define how it fits a small room. The manual does not establish an ANSI brightness figure, and DisplayLink is a computer connection rather than USB media playback. Confirm lamp condition, power accessories and source compatibility before buying.
A small conference room using XGA-era slides where a short throw and laptop-based presentation are useful.
It is not a fit for native Full HD film detail, standalone USB playback, integrated streaming apps, battery operation, or a brightness decision based on an unsupported ANSI claim.
Pros & cons
What could work for you, and what to consider before buying.
What works in its favor
- The IN1501's native XGA resolution and short-throw role are explicitly distinguished in its manual.
- A rear zoom ring and documented image offset make placement more manageable in a compact room.
- HDMI, VGA and composite cover computer and video sources across older and newer systems.
What to weigh up
- The reviewed guide does not establish a model-specific ANSI-lumen rating.
- USB DisplayLink requires a computer and is not direct playback from a USB drive.
- XGA resolution is less suited to fine modern video detail than WXGA or Full HD panels.
Specifications and exact model details
The key details
| Model covered | IN1501 |
|---|---|
| Image format | Native XGA 1024 × 768; IN1503's WXGA facts excluded |
| Rated light output | Rear manual zoom; 120% ±5% image offset |
| Placement | VGA, HDMI, composite and USB DisplayLink computer input |
Performance figures are manufacturer claims. Source checked October 15, 2026. Regional models and included accessories can differ.
Full review: how the features affect your choice
What the features mean for you
Which resolution belongs to the IN1501?
The InFocus guide applies to both IN1501 and IN1503 but explicitly assigns native XGA 1024 × 768 to the IN1501 and WXGA 1280 × 800 to the IN1503. This review uses only the IN1501 figure. XGA can work for older slide decks and basic business text, while small details and modern widescreen media will look less defined than on a higher-resolution panel. The projector may accept a range of source signals, but input compatibility does not alter its native pixels. Confirm the chassis label, set the laptop to a compatible mode and preview small text at the room's expected screen size.
How does its short throw change a meeting room?
InFocus describes the IN1501 as a short-throw design and gives an image offset of 120% ±5%. Its rear zoom ring provides some image sizing, which can be useful when a presenter has limited depth between a table and a screen. Short throw is not the same as ultra-short throw, and the exact distance still needs to be matched to screen width using the manual. The fixed offset also affects where the image appears relative to the lens and table. Plan screen height, projector orientation and audience sight lines before settling the position; do not rely on keystone correction as a substitute for measurement.
Will it connect to your computer?
The connector guide includes VGA, HDMI and USB DisplayLink for computer audio/video input, plus composite video. HDMI gives a straightforward path from many current players, while VGA may support older room computers. DisplayLink is a computer display connection that uses the host and its software; it should not be confused with inserting a USB stick and playing files directly. Test the preferred connection with the actual laptop, operating system and cable before a presentation. The manual also ties slide advance and mouse control to the computer connection and optional remote, so verify which remote and accessories are present in a used bundle.
What brightness evidence is available?
The source packet for this profile does not establish a model-specific ANSI-lumen value from InFocus's guide. A historic title may quote a lumen number, but without a matching method and exact-model source it is not reliable for an ANSI comparison. Room lighting, lamp age, screen size and projector mode influence actual viewing. Ask for the lamp-hours display and a demonstration at the intended screen size. If the projector will serve a bright meeting room, prefer a model with a clear manufacturer ANSI specification and test the exact used unit. This avoids assigning performance to the IN1501 based on a title or family-level number.
What does the lamp require?
The manual includes a replaceable projection lamp and maintenance guidance. That makes lamp hours and service history relevant parts of a used purchase: a unit with an old or near-end lamp may need replacement even if it turns on. Request the counter, inspect the filter and vents and observe the projector through a full warm-up. Confirm that any replacement lamp is specified for the IN1501 rather than the neighboring IN1503. The documentation identifies AC operation, so the short-throw mobile role is about room placement rather than internal-battery portability. Keep ventilation clear and budget for the possibility of lamp service.
Who is the IN1501 a practical match for?
This model suits a small business or classroom that already uses computer-based presentations, needs to place the projector nearer than a conventional room model and can accept XGA resolution. It is less suitable for a room requiring modern native video detail, direct file playback or a validated ANSI brightness threshold. Its short-throw optics and offset are useful only when the table, screen and image size are measured together. Check the exact IN1501 identifier, lamp hours, remote, cables and computer connection before purchase. The recommendation uses InFocus's model-specific guide and does not report hands-on testing or current listing condition.
Compare for your needs
For finer film and interface detail, compare a native Full HD home projector; for a bright presentation room, use a model with a verified ANSI rating.
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Before you buy
Is the IN1501 WXGA?
No. InFocus assigns native XGA 1024 × 768 to IN1501; WXGA belongs to the IN1503.
Does its USB port play files from a flash drive?
The manual documents USB DisplayLink as a computer input, not direct USB-file playback.
Is the IN1501 ultra-short throw?
InFocus calls it short throw; that is not the same as a verified ultra-short-throw ratio.
Where can I check the current price?
Use the Amazon link for current offers. Check the exact model, seller, product condition, delivery, and return terms. This page does not display a live price or confirm stock.
Sources and review basis
Sources & review basis
We use the linked product documentation for the features above. Our suitability notes and buying advice are editorial judgments based on those features, not measured performance results.
- InFocus IN1501/IN1503 user guide ↗ — checked October 15, 2026.
- InFocus-authored IN1501/IN1503 user guide ↗ — checked October 15, 2026.
The decision
The IN1501's short-throw role and computer connections suit small rooms with legacy slides. Its native XGA panel and lamp mean careful source and condition checks remain essential.
Is it the right fit?
Check the exact model and today’s offers on Amazon.