Dimensions of TVs and viewing distance

There are a few factors to consider when determining the appropriate size of a TV for a particular viewing distance.

Viewing angle: The ideal viewing angle for a TV is around 30 degrees, which corresponds to a distance of about 1.6 times the diagonal size of the TV for a 1080p HDTV and about 2.1 times the diagonal size for a 4K UHD TV. For example, for a 65-inch 1080p HDTV, the ideal viewing distance would be about 104 inches (8.7 feet), while for a 65-inch 4K UHD TV, the ideal viewing distance would be about 136 inches (11.3 feet).

Resolution: The resolution of the TV also plays a role in determining the ideal viewing distance. Higher resolution TVs can be viewed from closer distances without the individual pixels being noticeable, so you can sit closer to a 4K TV than you could to a 1080p TV and still get a good viewing experience.

Personal preference: Ultimately, the ideal viewing distance is a matter of personal preference and may depend on the specific needs and preferences of the viewer. Some people may prefer to sit closer to the TV and have a more immersive viewing experience, while others may prefer to sit farther back and have a more relaxed viewing experience.

appropriate size of a TV for a particular viewing distance
photo: Pixabay

How a distance affects the image’s quality
In the past, if you parked too near an old tube TV, you would end up seeing scan lines. Similar to this, rows and columns of pixels, the small dots that make up your image, would be visible on HDTVs operating 1080p or lower. With 4K, both of those issues have long since been resolved. More of a problem is sitting too far away and losing the details and visual quality you paid for than it is getting too close.
HDTV resolution is much lower than that of 4K Ultra HD TVs, which can display up to four times as much detail as a 1080p screen. Even when you are directly in front of the panel, it is challenging to distinguish individual UHD pixels because to their small size. With an 8K TV, you can get even closer. This allows you the opportunity to sit as close as you’re comfortable.

But you can absolutely move further away from the TV if you must. A 4K TV will still appear reasonably sharp even if you sit further away than the suggested distances. Currently, practically all 4K TVs are HDR-compatible, extending the contrast and color gamuts of content that has HDR-encoded. Even from across the room, HDR’s advancements are rather evident.
The ideal viewing distance for a 4K UHD TV will depend on the size of the TV and the resolution of the content being viewed. Generally, the ideal viewing distance for a 4K TV is around 2.1 times the diagonal size of the TV. For example, for a 65-inch 4K UHD TV, the ideal viewing distance would be about 136 inches (11.3 feet).
The ideal viewing distance for a 32-inch TV will depend on the resolution of the TV and the specific needs and preferences of the viewer. Here are some general guidelines for determining the ideal viewing distance for a 32-inch TV:

For a 1080p HDTV: The ideal viewing angle for a 1080p HDTV is around 30 degrees, which corresponds to a distance of about 1.6 times the diagonal size of the TV. For a 32-inch 1080p HDTV, this would be a viewing distance of about 51 inches (4.3 feet).

For a 4K UHD TV: The best viewing angle for a 4K UHD TV is also around 30 degrees, which corresponds to a distance of about 2.1 times the diagonal size of the TV. For a 32-inch 4K UHD TV, this would be a viewing distance of about 67 inches (5.6 feet).

25″-39″ TVs are generally best for small to medium-sized rooms and for viewing from a relatively close distance. These TV sizes are typically recommended for viewing distances of around 4-6 feet, which corresponds to a viewing angle of about 30 degrees, which is generally considered the ideal viewing angle for a TV.

These TV sizes are well-suited for use in a bedroom, kitchen, or home office, or for use as a secondary TV in a living room or den. They may also be suitable for use in a small apartment or dorm room.

When choosing a TV in this size range, it’s important to consider the resolution of the TV, as well as any additional features that may be important to you, such as smart TV capabilities, high dynamic range (HDR) support, and connectivity options.

40″-59″ TVs are generally best for medium to large-sized rooms and for viewing from a moderate to relatively far distance.
These TV sizes are well-suited for use in a living room, den, or media room, or for use as the primary TV in a home theater setup. They may also be suitable for use in a larger bedroom or in a shared space such as a dorm room or common area.

60″-79″ TVs are generally best for large-sized rooms and for viewing from a moderate to far distance.
These TV sizes are well-suited for use in a large living room, home theater, or media room, or for use as the primary TV in a home theater setup. They may also be suitable for use in a shared space such as a dorm room or common area, or in a commercial setting such as a conference room or restaurant.

80″+ TVs are generally best for very large-sized rooms and for viewing from a far distance. These TV sizes are well-suited for use in a home theater or media room, or for use as the primary TV in a home theater setup. They may also be suitable for use in a shared space such as a conference room or auditorium, or in a commercial setting such as a sports bar or entertainment venue.

The picture on your TV may be impacted by ambient light from your windows, candles, or lamp. Absolutely fine is a little bit. It can ease eye strain and improve your ability to perceive deeper blacks. But if you do it too much, you’ll get glare. That could obstruct the action on the screen or merely make your TV look lamely faded and washed out.

If your entertainment room receives a lot of light, you might want to consider purchasing an LED TV because they are generally brighter than OLEDs and have anti-reflective panels.