The Plasma TV Blog

In the previous generation of analog TVs, the rule of thumb was to multiply the size of the screen by 3 to obtain the distance from the TV for the maximum picture clarity. Thus, you would want to sit 12.5 feet from a TV with a 50 inch screen. The improved resolution of HDTV has caused the suggested distance to be lowered a bit. This is because the progressive scanning used to create the image has allowed the viewer to be closer to the screen without loss of clarity. The new recommended multiplier is 2 and a half times the screen size. This would make 10.4 feet the ideal for a 50 inch screen.

Calculating this optimum viewing distance and knowing the size of the room where the TV will be placed will be the limiting factor in screen size selection. It is not the only factor, however. The larger the screen, the more the unit is going to cost. So your own personal budget restraints are a factor as well. It is also helpful to have some knowledge of the technology behind the type of TV being selected, as some units are available in bigger size screens, but deliver the best quality picture at a smaller size.

Your own personal preference is the most important factor. If asked, most people would say they would like to have a bigger screen than the one on the TV they currently own, so you might as well go for the biggest screen you can afford that will fit your physical area.