When choosing the right television for a particular room, size is an important factor. Bigger isn't always better, but a smaller television can be hard to see if the room is large. There is a formula for determining the maximum and minimum sizes a television should be depending on the viewing space. In general, the closer the seating to the television, the smaller the screen should be.

Standard-Definition Television

Standard-definition televisions require a viewing distance of three to six times the size of the screen (in inches). For example, seating for a 32-inch standard television should be at least 8 feet from the screen for the clearest picture. When purchasing a TV, measure the available space, then work backward to determine screen size. If your couch is 6 feet from the place a television will be displayed, multiply 6 by 12 to get the distance in inches (72). To find the maximum size screen, divide 72 by 3, which equals a 26-inch screen. For the minimum size, divide 72 by 6, which equals a 13-inch screen. The television for this space should be no larger than 26 inches and no smaller than 13 inches. Standard TVs have a thick back, up to 2 feet wide, which means they will not sit flush against a a wall. When measuring the room, you should take into account that the television will sit at least a couple of feet away from the wall.

High-Definition Flat-Screen Television

The formula for determining the appropriate size of a high-definition television is a viewing distance of 1.5 to three times the size of the screen in inches. For example, a 32-inch screen should have at least a 4-foot viewing space. As with a standard TV, you should determine the space you have, then work backward to find an appropriate screen size. If your couch is 6 feet from the place a television will be displayed, multiply 6 by 12 to get the distance in inches (72). To find the maximum size screen, divide 72 by 1.5, which equals a 46-inch screen. For the minimum size, divide 72 by 3, which equals a 26-inch screen. The television for this space should be no larger than 46 inches and no smaller than 26 inches. Flat-screen televisions are roughly 4 inches thick, so they can be placed very close to a wall or hung on the wall.

High-Definition Rear-Projection Television

The rule for a high-definition rear-projection television is the same as for the flat-screen version. The difference is that rear-projection can be significantly thicker than a flat screen, anywhere from 10 inches to 16 inches from front to back. Take that distance into account when you're planning seating distance and screen size, especially if you're going for a maximum screen size. For example, if the seating is 6 feet from the wall, knock off one foot to account for the width of a rear-projection screen, making the distance 5 feet. Then repeat the formula for high-definition viewing distance: 1.5 to three times the screen size.

Source:

Amazon.com: Which Size HDTV is Right for My Room?

Game Room Decorating Ideas