How to measure a TV screen: Easy tips and tricks

Measuring your TV screen is not only important for making sure TV will fit in your space, but also for deciding the best viewing distance

Hannah Hopkins - Dec 27, 2023

An undated image illustrating a TV on wall. — Canva

If you are looking to buy a new TV, it’s important to know how to measure the size of your TV screen. Measuring your TV screen is not only important for making sure the TV will fit in your space, but also for deciding the best viewing distance. Here are some easy tips and tricks to help you measure your TV screen.

Measuring a TV screen

TV manufacturers determine a TV’s screen size by measuring diagonally from corner to corner.

To find the best viewing distance from your TV, multiply the diagonal screen size by 1.2. To make sure your TV will fit on your shelf, you need to measure the height, width, and depth of the TV.

1. Place a tape measure diagonally on the screen. Place one end of your tape measure or measuring stick in the lower-left corner of your TV screen, and measure upward to the upper-right corner. Note the distance of the screen from corner to corner.

This is how most TV manufacturers measure the screen size that’s listed in your TV’s packaging or box, as well as in advertisements. The measurement on your TV’s box or packaging only includes the screen size.

It does not include the frame (also known as the bezel), which can add extra inches to the overall size. If you just want to know the size of the screen and not the whole TV, make sure you are only measuring the screen size and not the frame.

2. Measure the width of your TV screen. If you want to know the width of your screen, you can measure the length of your screen from left to right. Make sure you are only measuring the screen and not the bezel.

The diagonal size of your TV is different from the width and height of your TV. The width of a TV screen is usually slightly smaller than the advertised screen size on the box.

3. Measure the height of your screen. To determine the height of your TV screen, you can run the tape measure or measuring stick vertically from the top of the screen to the bottom.

Again, make sure you are only measuring the screen and not the bezel if you just want to know the true screen size.

4. Determine the aspect ratio of your screen. To determine the aspect ratio of your screen, divide the width of your screen by the height of your screen. The aspect ratio is usually expressed as a ratio of width to height, such as 16:9.

Finding best viewing distance

To find the best viewing distance from your TV, multiply the diagonal screen size by 1.2. This will give you the ideal distance to sit from your TV for the best viewing experience.

For example, if your TV has a diagonal screen size of 50 inches, you should sit about 60 inches (5 feet) away from the screen.

Measuring an entire TV

To make sure your TV will fit on your shelf, you need to measure the height, width, and depth of the TV. Measure the height of the TV from the bottom of the stand to the top of the TV.

Measure the width of the TV from left to right, including the bezel. Measure the depth of the TV from front to back, including any protruding parts like the stand.

Measuring your space for proper placement

Before you buy a new TV, it’s important to measure your space to make sure the TV will fit properly.

Measure the height, width, and depth of the space where you plan to put your TV. Make sure to leave enough room for ventilation and for the TV stand or wall mount.