TV Calculator

1. How do you determine these values?

These values are determined from a series of equations that not only use general TV rules, but proven formulas that factor in human vision and deep research offer generally the most optimal TV viewing experience. The following formulas are in use for our calculator, and are a part of deep research and Wolfram Alpha based calculations:

1. tvWidth(in) = tvSize(in) × 0.8716 (basic)
2. tvWidth(in) = 2 × ViewingDistance × tan(TargetFOV/2) (advanced)
3. tvSize(in) = tvWidth × 1.147
4. ViewingDistance(in) = tvSize × 1.626 (Basic)
5. ViewingDistance(in) = tvWidth / (2 × tan(TargetFOV/2)) (advanced)
6. ActualFOV(deg) = 2 × tan⁻¹(tvWidth / (2 × ViewingDistance)) (Advanced)
7. MinViewingDistance = tvSize(in) / p

A more in-depth explanation of our actual formulas can be found here: Formula Explanation

2. Are these recommendations accurate?

These recommendations are backed by research, human anatomy, and industry standards, offering on average the best viewing experience possible. However, everyone is different, between preferences and differences in eye sensitivity. So, this calculator's recommendations should be treated as a starting point, not a definite answer.

3. What is FOV (Field of View), and why does it matter?

FOV stands for Field of View, and it is the angle at which you are able to see your TV. Moving closer to your TV means a higher FOV, but more eye strain, as your eyes have to work harder to perceive the entire screen. Gaming and movie usage permits closer FOVs, with gaming ~50 degrees, movie at ~40 degrees, general use at ~30 degrees, and sports/monitor usage at >20 degrees. Our calculator ensures that you are always in the right range of FOV pertaining to your desired usage, while still ensuring that minimal eye strain occurs during use.

4. Does this calculator work on mobile?

Yes! Our calculator is set up to best aid both PC and mobile users!

5. Can this calculator aid in projector setup as well?

Of course! Projector usage is becoming more and more popular in society today, as a way to bypass the "big black box" that is a TV when not in use. As long as you enter the correct viewing distance or projected image size, the same calculations are still usable.

6. Do aspect ratios other than 16:9 change the calculation?

Very slightly, but nearly all modern TV manufacturers mainly utilize 16:9 aspect ratios - and will specify if otherwise.

7. How does resolution affect recommended distance or TV size?

Generally, larger resolutions allow you to sit closer to the TV, while lower resolutions require you to sit farther back. This is because past a certain distance, as outlined by FAQ #1, you will start to see the pixels on your TV, which is not favorable.

8. What causes eye strain while watching TV?

Factors affecting eye strain include sitting too close or too far from the screen, inappropriate viewing angles, poor lighting conditions, and extended viewing sessions without breaks.

9. What happens if I sit closer than recommended?

The risk of eye strain is increased if you sit closer than recommended. Individual pixels may become visible when you have a lower resolution.

10. Can sitting too far from the TV cause eye strain too?

Yes! As you get too far from the TV, squinting is induced, which can cause eye strain and poor vision over time. Thus, it is important to not only sit far enough from your TV to avoid eye strain, but to sit close enough to avoid eye strain as well!