Recommended TV size
What size TV should I buy?
The best TV size depends mostly on how far you sit from it. Sit too close to a big screen and you see pixels and strain your neck; sit far from a small one and you lose the detail you paid for. For a modern 4K TV, a good rule of thumb is that the screen’s diagonal (in inches) should be roughly your viewing distance in feet × 8 for a nicely immersive picture. This calculator applies that rule and gives you a recommended size plus a comfortable range.
Based on 4K resolution and a comfortable field of view. 4K lets you sit closer than old HD sets, so don’t be afraid to size up — most people wish they’d bought a bigger TV, not a smaller one.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far should I sit from a 65-inch TV?
For a 65″ 4K TV, about 8 feet is the sweet spot for mixed viewing, though anywhere from roughly 5.5 to 8 feet works well. Enter your actual distance above for a tailored size.
Is it bad to buy a TV that’s too big?
With 4K it’s rarely a problem — the extra resolution means a large screen still looks sharp up close. The main limits are wall space, the stand size, and budget, not the screen being “too big”.
Does resolution change the ideal size?
Yes. 4K TVs can be larger or viewed closer than old 1080p sets because you can’t see the pixels. This calculator assumes 4K, which is standard on today’s TVs.
What about a TV stand or mount?
Make sure your stand or console is wider than the TV’s feet and rated for its weight. See our TV stand guide for how to choose the right one for your new screen.