How to Size a Screen for a Home Theater

Consider the layout of your room before picking a screen size.

Thanks to organizations like THX and specialty home audio and video websites, finding the perfect screen size for your home theater has become relatively simple. There are only a few variables to consider and a little measuring to find the screen size that works best for you.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Calculator

Instructions

Determining Proper Screen Size

1. Measure the distance in inches from where the television will sit to the spot you will view it from.

2. Multiply the distance by 0.84 to determine the approximately ideal screen size for your setup.

3. Use this example to double check your work:

   The viewing distance is 60 inches.

   60 inches x 0.84 = 50.4 inches.

   Of course, televisions don't come in half-inch increments, so round it which ever way you see fit.

Tips & Warnings

• THX recommended viewing distances by screen size:

• 35-inch television = 3.5 to 5 ft.

• 40-inch television = 4 to 6 ft.

• 50-inch television = 5 to7.5 ft.

• 60-inch television = 6 to 9 ft.

• Don't mount the TV at an angle greater than 15 degrees from eye level to prevent discomfort when viewing.

References

• THX: HDTV Set Up

Resources

• Viewing Distance Calculator