How to Choose the Best TV Screen Size by Seating Distance

Bigger does not always mean better when it comes to TV sets. TV buyers should think about the distance from the set that viewers will typically sit. If viewers tend to sit close, a too-large screen will offer a poor experience.

Imagine sitting five feet away from a movie screen. In that case, the viewer would have no way to see the entire screen. The part of the image the viewer can see may appear blurry and indistinct because the proximity brings individual image pixels into view.

People with large screen TVs in smaller rooms can face the same problem. Learn how to choose the best TV screen size based on the distance the viewers will generally sit away from the set.

First, the TV’s resolution should also figure into calculations. For instance, a 4K TV uses smaller pixels than a 1080p TV. According to PC Magazine, the difference in pixel size allows viewers to enjoy a clear image even if they sit somewhat closer to a 4K TV.

It might seem intuitive that better resolution would make it easier to view a TV further away. Still, it’s less obvious that better resolution also makes the image quality better for people sitting closer. Potential TV buyers should avoid having people turn their heads to focus on the entire screen. So, before you head to the store, consider seating arrangements.

The difference between 4K and 1080p resolution matters because most calculations to determine the best image size are based on 1080p TVs. Still, people who plan to buy a 4K TV can probably increase screen size without sacrificing viewing quality.

Samsung offered a straightforward formula to calculate the best screen size at 1080p:

Again, 4K or better TVs offer a little more leeway to buy a larger TV. PC Magazine suggested moving as far up as 65 inches for a 4K TV with a seven- to eight-foot viewing distance. Still, if people only sit about four to five feet away from the TV, drop back down to 40- to 50-inch 4K TVs.

A very general rule of thumb is multiplying the viewing distance (in feet) by 10, and then subtracting five to get a rough estimate in inches of the best TV size for 4K. Thus, for an eight-foot viewing distance for a 4K TV, consider topping out about 75 inches.

Purchasing the best TV requires balancing the viewing area with the screen’s resolution and size. As TVs improve in size and resolution, they get more expensive too. People may need a smaller TV with a lower resolution than they would for a higher one, so the correct choice may depend on the household’s budget.

No matter the TV, screen size, or brand, Upsie offers an affordable, robust extended TV warranty. You can choose between two-, three-, and five-year protection plans. If your TV breaks, you can make a claim 24 hours a day, and then Upsie will help schedule a certified repair technician to come. The best part? There is no deductible for covered repairs.