Master TV terms and technology – TV buying guide

Buying a new TV can be surprisingly complex with so many factors to consider. As technology evolves rapidly, even tech-savvy buyers can feel overwhelmed by the jargon and features used in modern TV marketing. We want to make your purchase as easy as possible, so this guide is designed to answer your most common questions.

TV screen size and viewing distance

Choosing a TV usually starts with determining the screen size. The size depends on the space and the viewing distance. For example, for a medium-sized living room, a 55–75-inch screen is ideal. A larger living room or a dedicated home cinema benefits from a larger screen up to 98 inches, while home theater projectors can reach even larger sizes, up to 150 inches. For bedrooms, children's rooms, or summer cottages, a smaller 20–50-inch TV is usually sufficient, depending on the distance. Screen size is measured diagonally from corner to corner, excluding the bezels, and is expressed in inches.