How to Choose the Right Size TV

With a single TV measurement, and a couple of simple calculations that we'll explain in detail, you'll know exactly the best tv size to buy in no time.

OK, so let's take care of the decor first. Nothing scientific here, just pick the corner or wall where you think the TV will look best. Don't worry about the right size television now, that comes next.

And please, please, please do not even think about putting your TV above the fireplace. A TV's electronics are sensitive and can be degraded or destroyed by the heat, or by smoke and soot that may occasionally escape and rise up the front of the fireplace; not to mention the discomfort that inevitably develops from being forced to crane your neck all the time.

How can I Calculate the Right Screen Size?

After determining the best location to put your TV stand, or wall mount, you should measure the average distance to that location from the primary seating used for watching television. Then divide this distance by 2.1 -2.4, and multiply times 12 to convert to inches ('distance to TV' ÷ '2.1-2.4' x 12 inches). Research indicates that this calculation provides a good rule of thumb as to which TV screen size will provide an optimal viewing experience. When you measure tv screen size it is important to remember that you measure tv size by measuring the screen size diagonally.

The 2.1 to 2.4 range allows for differences in personal preference, room configurations, and budget. As an example, if the distance to the TV location from the primary viewing seating is 13 feet, the two calculation would be: 1) 13 ÷ 2.4 x 12 = 65 and 2) 13 ÷ 2.1 x 12 = 74.3. This indicates that a TV with a screen size, measured in inches, from the mid-60s to mid-70s hits the sweet spot. With that information you can decide whether to by a 65" or 75" TV depending on your personal preference for the prominence of the TV to be in the room, and how immersive you want your viewing experience to be.

What about Personal Preferences?

Always make personal preference your final consideration when deciding the right size tv for room sizes of different proportions. In the example given above, some consumers may want their TV to be a less prominent element in the room and will be very happy purchasing a 55" TV rather than the 65" model, while others may want an over-the-top cinematic experience and opt for an 85" TV over the 75" TV.

How wide should my TV Stand be?

If you are using a TV stand rather than a wall mount for your TV, there seems to be a design trend toward have the TV stand wider than the horizontal measurement of the TV. While this may make some sense if you are using separate left and right front speakers rather a sound bar, it's otherwise a waste of space and money. Once you've determined the best size TV, just make sure that the TV stand is wide enough to accommodate the distance between the TV's feet, a measurement supplied by all manufacturers, and you are good to go.