Your small TV may be the perfect size for solitary viewing, but you can hardly see the screen when sitting several feet away.
It’s too complicated (and expensive) to buy different-sized TVs to find which one is the perfect size for your living room, so how do you know how big your TV should be?
How big should a TV be to watch it from 9, 10, 12, or 15 feet away? Is there a way to calculate how big your TV should be for your viewing distance? Keep reading to find out!
Quick Navigation
Why Is It Important to Have the Right Sized TV?
It’s important to buy the right-sized TV for maximum visibility and comfort.
Have you ever strained your eyes trying to see a small TV screen? Or been overwhelmed by such a large TV in a small room?
TVs are an integral part of any living room, so it needs to be able to be seen from the couch without overpowering the room.
A TV too small will result in eye strain and a TV too large will make it difficult for your eyes to follow the characters on-screen. Either way, you’ll end up with a headache.
For these reasons, selecting the right-sized TV is just as important as choosing the right brand.
How Big Should My TV Be to Watch it from 9, 10, 12, 15 Feet Away?
Let’s explore the ideal TV size depending on how far away you’re sitting from the screen.
9 Feet
The ideal size for a TV meant to be watched from 9 feet (2.74 meters) away is 65 inches.
10 Feet
If you plan on watching your TV from 10 feet (3 meters) away, we recommend buying a 70 to 75-inch television.
Click image for more info
12 Feet
An 85-inch TV or larger is perfect for a 12 feet (3.66 meters) viewing distance.
Click image for more info
15 Feet
You will need a 90-inch to 100-inch TV to be able to clearly see the screen from 15 feet (4.57 meters) away.
Click image for more info
Viewing Distance and TV Size Summary Table
See our quick guide table below for the ideal TV size for your viewing distance.
| Viewing Distance | TV Size |
| 6 Feet (1.83 Meters) | 43 Inches |
| 7 Feet (2.13 Meters) | 50 Inches |
| 8 Feet (2.44 Meters) | 55 to 60 Inches |
| 9 Feet (2.74 Meters) | 65 Inches |
| 10 Feet (3 Meters) | 70 to 75 Inches |
| 12 Feet (3.66 Meters) | 85 Inches |
| 15 Feet (4.57 Meters) | 90 to 100 Inches |
How Can I Calculate How Big My TV Should Be?
You can calculate your ideal TV size using a TV size to distance calculator.
Is your viewing distance not listed above? No problem!
You can calculate the ideal TV size for your space using a TV size to distance calculator.
Use the sliders to set your viewing distance.
The website will then automatically calculate how big your TV should be for maximum visibility.
Give it a try!
Wrapping Things Up
A TV is supposed to fit your space and provide a leisurely and comfortable viewing experience. It’s crucial that you carefully select the right-sized TV to ensure you don’t end up with a headache.
So, if you’re buying a new TV from your home, consider measuring the distance from the couch to the TV and make an informed decision.
What’s your experience with buying the right-sized TV for a room? Let us know in the comments below!
Yesenia Achlim is a technical copywriter and editor with a focus on AV equipment. She aims to break down complicated topics and make technology accessible, no matter your technical expertise. When she’s not teaching you how to replace a projector lamp, you can find her reading and baking.