With standard-definition TVs, the rule used to be that viewers would feel comfortable watching a set from a distance of 3 to 6 times the screen size in inches.
With HDTV, the resolution is so much better that you can sit closer to a larger TV without noticing the pixels.
So with HDTVs, the rule tends to be you can sit anywhere from 1.5 to 3 times the screen size (in inches) for the best experience.
If you know the size of the room you have already, where you want to sit, and where your new HDTV should go once you get it, you can figure out the size HDTV you should get.
Maximum size=Viewing distance/1.5

Choose an Aspect Ratio: (the shape of the TV screen)
You can choose between widescreen (16:9) and standard (4:3). Widescreen is the format of the future and most Digital TV sets and almost all HDTV sets are widescreen.
Widescreen TV sets can adjust standard content to fill the screen while standard sets show widescreen content in letterbox (with black bars).
Choose the Image Quality:
HDTV
(High Definition TV) is best with 720p and higher
EDTV
(Enhanced Definition TV) is better with 480p and higher
STDV
(Standard Definition TV) is good with 480i or less
More Information About Digital Formats
Choose a Display Style: (type of TV set)
Flat
Panel: Maximum screen size is 100”. Nice and thin,
it mounts easily to the wall and gives film-like images. It is great
for family rooms, bedrooms and tight spaces.
Rear
Projection: Maximum screen size is 100”. They are
large screens and give bright pictures. Great for large spaces such as
media and recreation rooms.
Direct View: Maximum screen size is 34”. These have
good brightness, contrast and have a good viewing angle. Great for an
affordable TV in any room.
Front
Projector: Maximum screen size is almost unlimited.
It has very large image size, bright pictures and it’s like
going to the movies. Great for home theaters and rooms that are very
dark.
Get the Right Number of Inputs and Connections:
You will need enough inputs for your existing and future sources. Also recommended is at least one Digital input to ensure future possibilities and multiple High Definition (HD) inputs.
Look for an
HDMI
input:
This
connection keeps the signal all-digital, avoiding
degradation that can occur when a digital signal is converted to analog
for
output to a TV. HDMI carries high-definition audio as well as video.
Some
satellite receivers and digital cable boxes can connect through this
port, and
it is a must for viewing up-converted output from an external DVD
player or
Blu-ray discs at the highest picture quality.
Look for a
PC input:
If
you want to use your TV set as a PC monitor.
Shop around
for the
best price:
There
is a big difference in price between retailers, so it
pays to shop around. We
were surprised
to see lower prices by buying online.
Look in the stores, then order online to save money!
Don't forget the Cables
See what we bought!
Need a replacement remote for your TV, DVD player or converter box?
Enter your model number in the box below!
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