What size TV should I get?
A guide to the right TV size for your living room: viewing distance, room size, resolution and personal preference.
Updated: November 2026 · Based on THX, ITU-R BT.2022 and a user test by Stiftung Warentest
The ideal viewing distance: the basic rule
Viewing distance is the most important factor when choosing a TV size. For modern 4K TVs (the standard on almost every model from 43 inches up) there are two established recommendations:
For everyday viewing 1.5 × the diagonal is easier on the eyes. Movie fans often prefer the more immersive THX distance. If you like more distance, up to 2.5 × is fine too, according to a user test by Stiftung Warentest (2026).
Popular TV sizes and the rooms they suit
55 and 65 inches are among the best-selling sizes. For large living rooms with almost 3 m (10 ft) of viewing distance, 75 to 85 inches is the better choice.
| Room size | Typical distance | Suitable size |
|---|---|---|
| up to 15 m² (160 sq ft) | about 2 m (6.5 ft) | 50–55 inch |
| about 20 m² (215 sq ft) | about 2.5 m (8 ft) | 65–70 inch |
| 30 m² (320 sq ft) and up | 3 m (10 ft) and up | 75–85 inch |
For a precise answer, use the room size calculator.
Resolution makes the difference
The higher the resolution, the closer you can sit without seeing individual pixels. That is why 4K makes big screens work in smaller rooms too. At common distances 8K adds practically no visible benefit, because the eye can no longer make out the individual pixels of 4K.
Personal preference and use
- Movies & gamingOne size up feels more immersive. THX recommends a 40° viewing angle.
- News & everyday TVA viewing angle of about 32° (1.5 × diagonal) is easier on the eyes for long evenings. Sitting further back is fine too.
- Bright roomsLots of daylight? Bigger, brighter TVs hold up better.
- When in doubt, go biggerMost people regret buying too small, rarely the other way round.