TV viewing distance calculator
Enter the screen size and resolution to see how far to sit so the screen fills your view and its detail stays visible.
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Processing and privacy: The result is calculated inside your browser and your data is not sent to any server.
How to use it
- Enter screen size (diagonal) and resolution.
- The result appears straight away and updates as you edit.
- Copy the result, or copy a link that keeps the same values to share it.
How it is calculated
Screen width = diagonal × 16 ÷ √337. 30° distance = width ÷ (2 × tan 15°). 40° distance = width ÷ (2 × tan 20°). Full-detail distance = (width ÷ horizontal pixels) ÷ tan(1 arcminute).
Example
Inputs: Screen size (diagonal) = 55 in, Resolution = 4K (2160p). Result: Recommended distance (30°, SMPTE): 2.27 m; Immersive distance (40°, THX): 1.67 m; Farthest distance to see full resolution detail: 1.09 m.
Limits and caveats
- Assumes a 16:9 screen and normal 20/20 vision, and personal preference varies.
- The 30° and 40° angles are SMPTE and THX guidance for film viewing, not requirements.
Questions about this tool
What does a 30 degree angle mean?
The screen width fills 30 degrees of your view, which SMPTE recommends for comfortable viewing. The 40 degrees THX suggests feels closer to a cinema.
What is the full-detail distance?
The distance at which one pixel spans one arcminute, the limit of normal vision. Sit farther and you cannot see all the detail.
Should I sit closer with a 4K TV?
Yes, its pixels are smaller so they stay invisible up close. Its full-detail distance is half that of a Full HD TV of the same size.