With the traditional analog TV set, you generally needed to sit about 8 feet away from a 32 inch screen to get the best picture quality. If you were closer, you would start to notice the scanning lines that form your picture.
Today, the HDTV (and HDTV capable) sets have much higher resolution screens that allows you to put a much larger set in your room or gives you the choice of sitting much closer - based on your preference. But keep in mind, you want to measure your room and go with a size that is comfortable, not crowded.
High quality video material like DVD's and HDTV programs look amazing on these new sets. But you may also find that the noise and distortion in lower-quality analog signals (like standard broadcast and cable TV) are exposed and magnified.
That's why the suggested viewing distance chart below offers a range for each screen size, based on suggestions from manufacturers.
If most of your viewing is DVD quality or better, you'll see more details by sitting closer. If you want more regular (non-HD) video, sit farther back for a smoother picture.
Naturally, personal preference factors into viewers distance too. Just like in a movie theater: some people sit up front, some in back and some prefer the middle. Lots of people buy a TV, only to discover they should have bought something larger. That's why we recommend thinking carefully about how big your room is, what experience you wish to have, and your budget.
Size ---- Suggested Viewing Distance Range
30" ---- 3' 3/4" to 6' 1/4"
34" ---- 4' 1/4" to 7'
42" ---- 5' 1/4" to 8' 3/4"
50" ---- 6' 1/4" to 10' 1/2"
56" ---- 7' to 11' 3/4"
62" ---- 7' 3/4" to 13'
70" ---- 8' 3/4" to 14' 3/4"
