Many consumers consider multiple possible TV sizes when determining the size of their next TV. There is a wide range of TV sizing, spanning 24” to 75” for standard TV sizes. As a result, many find themselves considering what sizes TVs come in when looking for the best TVs in the market. To understand the different screen sizes, you should know the actual dimensions of the TV screen and the recommended viewing distance for viewers to sit away from the TV.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Brands manufacture smaller-sized TVs in the 24 inches, 32 inches, and 40 inches sizes, though fewer and fewer make 24-inch TVs today.
- Consumers find displays around 55 inches, 60 inches, and 65 inches for medium-sized TVs to be the right size.
- Larger-sized TVs measure about 65 inches, 70 inches, and 75 inches, though several models are larger than 75 inches.
Most Common TV Sizes
When buying a new TV, you should consider what size you want and what room the TV would be going in. The most common TV sizes include:
- Smaller size TVs are perfect for a smaller room, such as the bedroom, guest room, or kitchen. These are also ideal if you have to move a TV around a lot using one of the best rolling TV stands, as it won’t weigh too much.
- 24” – People consider 24-inch TVs to be “small” in size. The height is roughly 11.7 inches, and the width is 20.9 inches. The viewer should sit just over 3 feet away from the TV. Some manufacturers no longer make 24” displays, but if you’re set on 24 inches being the perfect size, the best 24 inch TV is still on the market.
- 32” – These 32 Inch TVs are still considered small size. 32” TVs offer the same comfort as the 24 inches but with a slightly larger screen. These TVs typically measure around 15.7 inches tall by 27.9 inches wide. For a field of view of 30°, you may want to sit about 4.5 feet away. Many manufacturers make 32” TVs as their smallest size.
- 40” – Many 40-inch TVs are considered to be small in size as well. These TVs typically stand about 19.6” tall by 34.9” wide, and the guidelines for a 40” TV suggest sitting approximately 2.5 feet away. You can read our Sansui 40 Inch 1080P FHD DLED TV review for a good budget option.
- Medium size TVs are perfect for smaller living rooms and other medium-sized rooms. Many consider these TVs ideal for narrower rooms as well.
- 55” – A 55-inch TV screen comes in at 47.9 in. wide and 27 in. tall with a viewing distance of 7.7’. Check out our guide on the best 55-inch TV for some great options.
- 60” – Standard 60-inch widescreen TVs are approximately 29.4 inches tall with a width of 52.3 inches. Therefore, a viewing distance of 8 feet follows the guidelines for the best 60-inch TV.
- Many living rooms and outdoor areas feature larger TVs, many of which include the best features.
- 65” – The 65-inch TV is one of the larger TVs widely available. It measures about 31.9”x56.7” and has a recommended viewing distance of 9.1 feet. These larger sizes are great for both the living room and the workplace as well in case you need to present something and are looking for something like the best conference room TV. You can read our Samsung UN65MU8500 review for a quality, curved screen option.
- 70” – Many 70” TVs are about 34.3×61 inches, while the recommended viewing distance is about 9.8 feet. If you have the room, something like the best 70″ TV will be a great addition to your space.
- 75” – A 70-inch TV remains one of the bigger TVs available, though there are some that are substantially bigger. The 70” TV stands approximately 36.8 inches tall by 65.4 inches wide. The recommended viewing distance is about 10.2 feet away. Check out our Samsung QN75Q8FN review for a 75″ TV. If you want to see what a larger TV offers, you can read our LG OLED77C9PU review for a 77-inch model.
| TV Size (inches) | Dimensions (W x H, inches) | Recommended Viewing Distance (feet) | Ideal Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24” | 20.9 x 11.7 | 3+ | Bedroom, Guest room |
| 32” | 27.9 x 15.7 | 4.5 | Bedroom, Kitchen |
| 40” | 34.9 x 19.6 | 2.5 | Small Living Room |
| 55” | 47.9 x 27 | 7.7 | Living Room |
| 60” | 52.3 x 29.4 | 8 | Living Room |
| 65” | 56.7 x 31.9 | 9.1 | Living Room, Workplace |
| 70” | 61 x 34.3 | 9.8 | Large Living Room |
| 75” | 65.4 x 36.8 | 10.2 | Large Living Room |
It should be noted that if you see a class the size of a 40″ class TV, it means that the TV is not actually a 40-inch TV. We have a great article on what class means on a TV that you can check out as well. Knowing this can also help you understand how to choose a TV screen size and weight, among other considerations.
In that case, you may want to read our list of the best TVs for the bedroom.
Additionally, knowing the size and weight of the TV helps tremendously if you are going to be mounting it on the wall. Just be sure to take into consideration if it is a curved TV, as this could affect where you mount it.
Mounting a TV is also one option that is great when figuring out how to reduce glare on a TV if you are having that issue.
Calculating TV Screen Sizes
To calculate the size of a TV screen, you would take the length of the diagonal, which is stated by the size in the name, and the most common aspect ratio for TVs, which is 16:9. You could then use the Pythagorean Theorem to find the approximate size of the screen. Be sure to add a few inches on each side to accommodate the TV’s bezel. You may also want to find out what is streaming tv and how it works as it will also influence the TV size you purchase.
When considering image quality, personal preference, and price range, always remember that the bigger the TV size, the higher the cost. However, it does not necessarily mean that image quality will also be better with larger sizes since image resolution also plays an important role in image quality. Take a look at different television models and their features to find one that meets your needs.
Insider Tip
Be sure to add a few inches on each side to accommodate the TV’s bezel. You may also want to find out what is streaming tv and how it works as it will also influence the TV size you purchase.
STAT: According to the Society of Motion Picture & Television Engineers (SMPTE), your TV should occupy at least a 30-degree arc in your field of vision. (source)
F.A.Q.
What is the viewing angle?
Viewing angle refers to the amount of your view the screen takes up. It is also referred to as the field of view.
Why is viewing distance significant?
Viewing distance guidelines help to prevent eye strain and other eye problems. Additionally, you can view the entire screen at these distances without having to turn your head a lot.
What is the most popular TV size?
In 2019, the most popular TV size in North America was 65 inches.
