How to measure a tv

What is TV Size and How is it Measured?

When you see a TV advertised with a size like "55 inches," this refers to the diagonal measurement of the viewable screen area. It's a standard convention in the industry and helps consumers quickly understand the visual real estate the television offers. This diagonal measurement is crucial for comparing different models and ensuring the TV will fit your viewing space and aesthetic preferences.

How to Measure Your TV Screen

Measuring your TV screen is a straightforward process. You will need a measuring tape. It's best to use a flexible tape measure, but a rigid one can also work if you're careful.

Step 1: Identify the Viewable Screen Area

Turn on your TV to ensure you are measuring the actual display area and not including any black borders or the frame (bezel) around the screen. The viewable screen is the part that displays the image.

Step 2: Measure Diagonally

Place one end of your measuring tape at the bottom-left corner of the viewable screen. Extend the tape measure tautly across the screen to the opposite corner, which would be the top-right corner. Alternatively, you can measure from the bottom-right corner to the top-left corner. Ensure the tape measure is straight and not sagging in the middle.

Step 3: Record the Measurement

Note the measurement. This number will be in inches. For example, if your tape measure reads 54.6 inches, you would round this up or down to the nearest standard TV size, which in this case is likely a 55-inch TV.

Understanding TV Sizes

TVs are sold based on their diagonal screen measurement. Common sizes include:

• 24-32 inches: Often found in smaller rooms, kitchens, or as secondary displays.
• 40-50 inches: Suitable for medium-sized living rooms or bedrooms.
• 55-65 inches: Popular for larger living rooms and home theaters, offering an immersive experience.
• 70 inches and above: Designed for spacious rooms or dedicated home theater setups, providing a cinematic feel.

It's important to remember that this diagonal measurement refers only to the screen itself, not the entire television unit. The overall dimensions, including the bezel, will be slightly larger.

Measuring the Entire TV Unit (External Dimensions)

While the screen size is the standard for purchasing, you might need to measure the entire TV unit for specific purposes, such as fitting it into a cabinet, onto a specific TV stand, or ensuring it fits through doorways and stairwells during installation.

How to Measure External Dimensions:

1. Width: Measure horizontally from the left edge of the TV frame (bezel) to the right edge of the TV frame.
2. Height: Measure vertically from the bottom edge of the TV frame to the top edge of the TV frame.
3. Depth: Measure from the front of the TV screen (or bezel) to the back of the TV. This is important for wall mounting or placing it on a stand.

These external measurements are essential for practical placement. Always check the manufacturer's specifications for the exact external dimensions and VESA mounting patterns, as these can vary even among TVs with the same screen size.

Why Accurate Measurement Matters

For Viewing Experience: The screen size dictates how immersive your viewing experience will be. A larger screen in a small room can be overwhelming, while a small screen in a large room might feel inadequate.

For Placement: Knowing the external dimensions ensures the TV will physically fit where you intend to place it. This includes checking if it fits on your current TV stand, inside an entertainment center, or if you need a new stand or mount.

For Wall Mounting: If you plan to wall mount your TV, you'll need to know both the screen size (for clearance and aesthetic balance) and the VESA mounting pattern (the standardized screw hole configuration on the back of the TV) to purchase the correct wall mount.

For Transportation: Measuring the external dimensions can be helpful when planning how to move a TV, especially larger models, to ensure it fits through doors or in a vehicle.

Tips for Measuring

• Use a reliable measuring tape.
• Ensure the tape is straight and taut.
• When measuring the screen, measure only the illuminated or viewable area.
• For external dimensions, include the bezel.
• Always double-check your measurements.
• Consult the manufacturer's specifications for precise details.

By understanding how to measure your TV and what measurements are important, you can make informed decisions about purchasing, placement, and installation, ensuring you get the most out of your television.