What Does Class Mean on TV

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Updated February 9, 2023

When buying a top rated-TV, people must consider several factors. However, one of the most important factors is the size of the screen. Naturally, people will want to pick the right size for their room and their preferences. Some may notice that specific TVs have the size followed by the word “class,” but many do not realize the impact that this little word can have on the size of the screen. So, what is “class” on TVs?

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • TV class does not indicate the actual size of the screen.
  • Class indicates that the TV is either a little bit smaller or larger than the written size.
  • People should consider multiple factors when selecting their TV.

Why do some TV listings have “class” in the description?

By now you have probably seen that TVs come in a wide array of sizes to suit pretty much anyone’s needs. Many product descriptions for TVs use the word “class” as part of the description of the screen. This usage of “class” states that the TV is not the size it says it is. It is often smaller than the listed size, though, in some cases, it is larger. The maximum difference between the actual size of the TV and the size listed is one-half of an inch. Therefore, if the difference is one-half inch or less, the actual size does not need to be listed.

However, if the difference in the size is more significant than half an inch, it still may be listed with the larger size followed by the word class. In this case, the manufacturer or retailer must include the actual size of the TV screen in the listing, usually under the specifications section. For example, a TV description may say 40″ class but may measure 38.5″ or 39,” which can be found elsewhere in the listing. You may be wondering what the dimensions of a 60-inch TV are if manufacturers are allowed to add “class”. The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) instituted the guidelines explaining the process for listing the size to keep consumers from being deceived. You can also find out what OLED means in TVs.

STAT: If you’re looking for a television that’s big enough for immersing yourself in sports, TV shows or movies, or playing games, but not so big as to completely dominate the room, a 55-inch television will likely check all the boxes. (source)

What is the right size TV screen?

Various factors must be taken into consideration when choosing the size of a TV. These factors should include personal preference, the watching distance, and the size of the room in which the consumer will place the TV.

Personal preference

Some people may prefer bigger or smaller TVs, especially if they suffer from vision impairments. However, if the screen isn’t as clear as the consumer would like, they should potentially increase the size of the TV. If you’re looking for a television that’s big enough for immersing yourself in sports, TV shows or movies, or playing games, but not so big as to completely dominate the room, a 55-inch television will likely check all the boxes. Don’t forget you can connect surround sound to a TV for immersive gameplay and movie watching.

tv viewing distance

Viewing distance

The distance one sits from the TV will also affect the size of the TV. The closer the consumer sits, the smaller the TV should be. This size difference is because they should not be able to individual pixels on the TV screen. On the other hand, the image on the TV should be clear from where the consumer normally sits to watch TV.

Room size

The size of the room the TV will be in also plays a role in selecting the screen size. While looking at the TV compared to the room, does it seem too small or too big? Some retailers have tools that utilize AR to show how the TV will look on a wall. Check out our great guide on the top 60″ televisions if you have space.

large tv room size

Determining the appropriate size of a TV can be difficult. Many people may not know what to consider. However, there are many factors for the consumer to consider, including how clear the image is, the consumer’s personal preference, and the distance the consumer sits from the TV. For example, if you are giving a presentation, you will want a TV that is big enough for everyone in the room, but also clear enough for them to make out text and images easily. For this, you can check out the highest-rated conference room TVs.

Although the size class of the television may not be the size listed, consumers can get a rough idea of the size of the TV from the size listed. If the difference is more extensive than one-half inch, the retailer must list the actual size in the product description.

These are some of the regulations by the FTC meant to ensure customers don’t get faulty products. Lest you start asking why your TV screen turns green yet you bought a new product.

F.A.Q.

What does screen size class mean?

Screen size class dictates the distance across the screen diagonally to within half an inch. If the distance is greater than half an inch, the actual distance diagonally across must be included in the product details.


What’s the difference between classes of TVs?

The difference between classes is the difference between sizes. However, there is also a difference between the class size and the actual size of the TV. This difference should be at most half an inch.


How do you determine what size TV to buy?

To determine the right size of the TV, one should consider the appropriate size for themselves, the room the consumer will be using it in, and how far away they will be sitting.



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