How it works
Enter the TV’s diagonal screen size and choose its resolution. The calculator multiplies the diagonal by a general viewing-distance range, then shows the result in feet and meters.
A 4K screen can usually be viewed from closer than a 1080p screen of the same size because the pixels are less noticeable.
Input query strings and outputs
Use an input name in this page’s URL as ?name=value, and join additional inputs with &. Portable shared links may instead use the compact ?ac= state parameter.
Input query strings
2-
?screenSize=Screen sizeNumber · Required · Default: 55
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?resolution=ResolutionChoice · Required · Default: 4k · Accepted values: 4k, 1080p
Outputs
5-
recommendedRangeSuggested viewing rangeText · Primary output
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minimumFeetCloser distanceNumber · Suffix: ft
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maximumFeetFarther distanceNumber · Suffix: ft
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minimumMetersCloser distanceNumber · Suffix: m
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maximumMetersFarther distanceNumber · Suffix: m
Formula
- 4K / UHD: screen diagonal × 1.0 to 1.5
- 1080p / Full HD: screen diagonal × 1.5 to 2.5
The diagonal and the viewing distance use the same starting unit. The result is then converted to feet and meters.
Example
For a 55-inch 4K TV:
- Closer distance: 55 × 1.0 = 55 inches
- Farther distance: 55 × 1.5 = 82.5 inches
- Suggested range: about 4.6 to 6.9 feet
What can change the best distance
The result is a planning range, not a fixed rule. Room layout, eyesight, subtitles, content quality, and how immersive you want the picture to feel can all change your preferred distance. Manufacturer guidance also varies.