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TV Viewing Distance Calculator

Find the ideal TV viewing distance for any screen size, based on THX and SMPTE recommended viewing angles.

Viewing distance

Enter the screen diagonal. Results update live.

Ideal distance range
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Enter the screen size to see the range.

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Where the range comes from

THX recommends a 36 degree viewing angle for cinema like immersion and SMPTE recommends at least 30 degrees. Those angles convert to a distance of about 1.54 to 1.87 times the screen diagonal, so a 55 inch TV sits best roughly 7 to 8.6 feet away.

Why bigger is usually better now

With 4K resolution, pixels stay invisible much closer than on old 1080p sets, so most people can sit at the near end of the range. If your room allows it, buying one size larger than the old rules suggested is rarely a mistake.

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TV Viewing Distance FAQs

How far should I sit from a 55 inch TV?
About 7 to 8.6 feet for the ideal range. For 4K content you can sit at the closer end without seeing pixels.
How far should I sit from a 65 inch TV?
About 8.3 to 10.1 feet. Measure from your eyes to the screen, not from the wall.
Does 4K change the viewing distance?
Yes, higher resolution lets you sit closer. With 4K you can use the near end of the THX range, while 1080p viewers should stay toward the farther end.
What is the THX viewing angle?
36 degrees horizontal, the angle THX recommends for an immersive cinema feel at home. It is the basis for the near end of the calculator's range.
Should the TV be at eye level?
Ideally the center of the screen sits at or slightly below seated eye level. Mounting too high causes neck strain over long viewing sessions.
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