How To Choose The Right TV Screen Size For You: Our Top Tips

What Size TV Do yOu Need For Your Room?

*Updated For February 2024

HD, 4K, OLED, QLED... who cares? Forget all the confusing tech jargon; size really does matter when it comes to TVs. Sometimes, choosing the right TV screen size for you is the real game-changer when it comes to achieving the best viewing experience at home.

Don't be fooled by "bigger is better" though - what’s classed as the best TV screen size for you hinges on a variety of different factors, including your budget, use case and the limitations of your space.

Throughout this guide, we’re going to show you how to find the right TV screen size for you so you can ditch the spec sheets and enjoy your entertainment in all of its glory.

The big thing to remember is that although a larger screen size at a lower price may seem attractive, a smaller set at a similar price could have more picture technology to boot, meaning a better viewing experience overall. So, there’s a lot more than meets the eye with this one.

Shop All TVs

Only a few minutes to choose your perfect TV - watch now!

How To Measure TV Screen Size

It may sound simple to a lot of you, but for those who are unsure, the first thing you’ll want to do is get to grips with how TV screens are measured in the first place.

Screen size is measured in inches, from the top to the bottom corner of the panel diagonally (see below). Now, if you’ve tested this, you might notice this measurement isn't an exact figure. That’s because advertised TV sizes are rounded for simplicity, so there’s no need to worry about any minor variations.

Diagram of how what you should measure on a TV

Why Is Screen Size So Important?

Despite the constant advances in TV technology, improving picture quality, sharper images, more vivid colours and smoother transitions, choosing the wrong size screen for your room could easily ruin the viewing experience.

For example, selecting a screen too big for a smaller room means that the viewer ends up sitting too close, and this could result in uncomfortable viewing or the image appearing distorted. And by contrast, a screen too small for larger rooms may prove both difficult and tiring to watch from a considerable TV viewing distance.

It’s always worth considering aesthetics when you’re buying a TV too. A giant screen in a smaller room could prove dominating, whereas an undersized TV in a room with more compact dimensions may look out of place.

Ultimately, the best screen size for you is the one that feels most comfortable and immersive to watch. Yes, an optimum field of view and aesthetics are important; we recommend you trust your eyes and try out different sizes in person if possible.

How To Choose The Right TV Screen Size: our Recommended Sizing

Since there's no 'one size fits all' approach when it comes to selecting the ‘perfect’ TV, be sure to try this simple technique for determining the right size screen for you and your room.

Decide on your TV location and where the viewers will be seated.

In inches, measure the distance from the TV's location back to your seat.

Take this measurement and divide it by the value of 2 - the resulting number is the approximate screen size that you'll need.

For example: 9-feet (109") from screen to sofa / by 2 = 54.5” (approximate ideal screen size).

Like in the example above, as many rooms won't allow for a round number to be determined, you may get an approximate value of the screen size you should consider. In this case, a 55-inch TV or 65-inch TV will be more ideal.

SHOP BY SREEN SIZE:

32" - 45" TVs

46" - 54" TVs

55" - 64" TVs

65" - 74" TVs

75"+ TVs

Consider Your Use Case

Along with using our recommended sizing guidelines, we thoroughly recommend you think about how you’re going to use the TV on a daily basis, as this can play a big role in determining which size is right for you.

Are you a film fanatic, a sports fan, an avid gamer or just looking for the perfect TV for casual viewing?

If the home cinema experience is what you’re after, the likelihood is you’re going to want to opt for a bigger screen than recommended for that truly immersive cinematic display. We’d recommend a 75-inch or larger model for the best cinematic experience.

You might want the best of both worlds and be better suited to something in the middle. Again, it’s a very personal approach, and what might suit you may be different for somebody else, but it’s definitely something worth considering before you bite the bullet.

Will Your New TV Fit Your Space?

Regardless of what size you go for, you'll want to consider the limitations of your space too (the spec sheet will be your best friend here). Will your ideal TV fit on your chosen piece of furniture, or can it be safely wall-mounted without obstructing any other objects, like a Sonos Soundbar, for example? Thankfully, we have some convenient TV wall-mount options to make the process easier.

Placing the TV on a piece of furniture offers safe and sturdy support, but it's vital to ensure that there is enough room to accommodate it. Some TVs have a central stand to support themselves, but many have feet at either end of their casing, meaning larger TVs may overhang.

Should you wish to mount your TV into a recess within a wall, then don't forget that you'll need to keep your TV's full physical size in mind. In which case, be sure to consider the size of the TV's bezel too, and remember that your TV will need adequate ventilation.

Need some more installation advice? Get in touch with one of our experts!

Our Additional Advice

Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all solution to picking the right TV screen size, but if you're considering a certain model but are still unsure, these tips might be especially helpful:

Know Your Priorities:

What do you value more, panel technology or screen size? Remember, size is important, but tech types like Mini-LED, OLED, QD-OLED, and QLED offer their own unique viewing experiences. Consider their strengths (are they good for bright rooms etc.) Compromise may be needed because your dream TV technology might not come in your ideal size.

Consider Viewing Distance & Resolutions

Remember, high-resolution TVs pack more pixels, allowing you to sit closer without seeing much distortion. A 4K TV lets you sit closer than a 1080p TV without suffering from eye strain, with the same applying to 8K TVs. This won’t be the be all and end all, but something to bear in mind nonetheless.

More: TV Screen Types: What Do They Mean and Which Is Right for Me?

The Sweet Spot Matters, But Don't Panic:

Just like speakers, TVs have an optimal viewing position - centred, level, and within a recommended distance. But real life isn't perfect! Thankfully, modern TVs have built-in technology that adapts picture quality for off-centre seating and varying heights, ensuring a great viewing experience even if your room layout isn't ideal.

Budget Wisely:

Stick to your set budget! Try to avoid "bargain" upsells because picture quality doesn't always scale with size. What a specific model offers may be different from another, and this can easily confuse the entire buying process. Make a plan, set a limit, and avoid any of that post-purchase disappointment. Remember, it's a big purchase, and it needs to be kind to your wallet.

In Summary

Hopefully, this guide has cleared up everything concerning the size of your next TV. But should you still be unsure of which screen size is best to go for, why not check out our blogs on all TVs available at Smart Home Sounds.

With screen sizes ranging from 32" to 86", offering a choice of displays, we're sure to have the right TV for you and your family to enjoy. Plus, you can enjoy Free Delivery and Free 5-Year Warranty for that extra peace of mind on all of our TV models.

How to Choose The Right TV Screen Size for You

Struggling to find the right size TV for you? This handy guide will make choosing the right TV screen size for your home a breeze.