Introduction
Are you in the market for a new television but overwhelmed by all the technical jargon? You’re not alone. When it comes to TVs, there are a lot of factors to consider, from screen sizes and resolutions to aspect ratios. That’s why we’ve broken down everything you need to know about how to measure a television so you can make an informed decision that fits your needs and budget.
How TV Screen Sizes are Measured
When you’re shopping for a television, the first thing you’ll likely notice is the size. However, this size isn’t always an accurate reflection of the actual viewable area. That’s because TV sizes are measured diagonally across the screen, from one corner to the other. This means that a 75-inch TV will actually have a smaller viewable area than a 70-inch model.
In addition to the diagonal measurement, it’s important to note the width and height of the television. The width and height measurements are usually listed in inches or centimeters and can be used to determine how much space the TV will take up in your living room or entertainment center.
Understanding Aspect Ratios for TVs
The aspect ratio of a television refers to the ratio between the width and height of the screen. The two most common aspect ratios for televisions are standard 4:3 and widescreen 16:9. Standard 4:3 TVs have a width that is four-thirds the height, while widescreen 16:9 TVs have a width that is sixteen-ninths the height.
Standard 4:3 TVs are typically found on older models and offer a more traditional viewing experience. Widescreen 16:9 TVs are more common on newer models and provide a wider viewing area but may distort certain images that weren’t filmed in the same aspect ratio.
A Guide to TV Resolution
Resolution is another important factor to consider when buying a television. Resolution refers to the number of pixels that make up the image on the screen. The higher the resolution, the sharper and more detailed the image will be. Common resolutions for televisions include 720p, 1080p, and 4K Ultra HD.
720p televisions have a resolution of 1280 x 720 pixels and are often found on lower-end models. 1080p televisions have a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels and are typically found on mid-range models. 4K Ultra HD televisions have a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels and are generally found on high-end models.
How to Choose the Right Size Television
Now that you know how to measure a television and understand the different resolutions, it’s time to decide which size is right for you. The size of the television you choose should depend on the size of the room and how far away you plan to sit from the TV. Generally, it’s recommended to sit at least three times the width of the television away from the screen for optimal viewing.
It’s also important to consider the features of the television. For example, if you plan to use the TV for gaming, you may want to opt for a larger size with a higher resolution for the best gaming experience. If you plan to watch movies, you may want to opt for a widescreen model with a 4K resolution for the best picture quality. Ultimately, the size and features you choose should be based on your personal preferences and budget.
Comparing Standard 4:3 and Widescreen 16:9 TVs
When deciding between a standard 4:3 and widescreen 16:9 TV, it’s important to consider the benefits of each. Standard 4:3 TVs offer a more traditional viewing experience and tend to be less expensive than widescreen models. Widescreen 16:9 TVs provide a wider viewing area but may distort certain images that weren’t filmed in the same aspect ratio.
Calculating the Best Viewing Distance for Your TV
Once you’ve chosen the perfect size television, it’s time to calculate the ideal viewing distance. To do this, simply multiply the width of the television by three. This will give you the minimum distance you should sit from the TV for optimal viewing. For example, if you have a 65-inch TV, you should sit at least 195 inches (16 feet 3 inches) away from the screen.
Conclusion
Buying a new television can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. By understanding how to measure a television, understanding aspect ratios and choosing the right resolution, you’ll be able to find the perfect size TV for your home. Just remember to factor in the size of the room, your viewing distance and any special features you may need before making your purchase.
