Choosing the right TV size is a decision many regret overlooking. At times, you might think it's sufficient, but in practical use, it feels small. On the other hand, opting for a larger TV may lead to sitting too close, impacting image quality and falling short of expectations.
1. A Guide to Choosing TV Size
Choosing the perfect TV size is crucial, and many regret not paying enough attention to it. Sometimes you think it's sufficient, but in practical use, it feels small. On the flip side, going for a larger TV may force you to sit too close, affecting the image quality and not meeting expectations. In this article, I'll guide you on how to choose a TV that best suits your needs.
How is TV Size Calculated?
The current TV size is measured by the diagonal length of its screen, commonly expressed in inches.
The image above compares common TV screen sizes. Currently, 55 inches can be seen as the optimal size for large TVs without a significant price hike; you'll also find many attractive models. 65 inches is often the starting size for high-end TVs, such as LG's E6 OLED TVs. On the other hand, sizes 75 inches and above will see prices skyrocket; even mid-range models can cost you tens of millions.
Guidelines for Choosing TV Size (according to THX)
To choose the most suitable TV, you need to determine the viewing distance. For example, if the distance from your sofa (where you'll be sitting) to the TV is 2 meters, you'll look for the optimal TV size for that 2-meter distance.
At present, we have various methods to calculate TV size based on viewing distance. In this article, I'll guide you on THX's method, one of the leading American audio and visual companies. THX is also a subsidiary of Walt Disney, one of Hollywood's big six studios.
According to THX, the optimal viewing distance for a TV is calculated using the formula:
TV diagonal length : 0.84 = Optimal viewing distance
For example, if your TV is 65 inches, using the formula mentioned, its optimal viewing distance is 77 inches (1.95 m). Conversely, if your viewing distance is 1.95 m, the recommended TV size would be 65 inches.
THX's calculation method aims to recreate a cinema-like experience for viewers, with the viewing angle from the viewing position to the entire screen being 40 degrees or narrower. Therefore, compared to some other brands, THX's suggested TV sizes are larger. They also calculate that users often regret the TV size not being as large as expected after purchase.
Another important consideration is optimizing the height of the TV, avoiding viewers having to tilt their heads more than 15 degrees.
Optimal Viewing Distances for Some Common TV Sizes
The optimal viewing distance is essentially the minimum distance between you and the TV, allowing you to fully experience the size that the TV offers. If closer, your vision will be restricted, previously concerning resolution, but with the advent of 4K TVs, this is no longer an issue. Farther away, you can still watch effectively, but you won't fully appreciate the advantages that a large screen provides.
THX's recommended distances for various TV size categories
- 35 inches: 1 - 1.5 meters
- 40-inch Range: 1.2 - 1.8 meters
- 50-inch Range: 1.5 - 2.2 meters
- 60-inch Range: 1.8 - 2.7 meters
Wishing you satisfaction with the chosen TV size.