Choosing the Right TV
When selecting a new TV, the most important questions you need to ask are not related to the features of the TV. The most important considerations (before you even start looking for a TV) are to do with the room that the TV will be going in.
What is the size of your room?
The first thing you need to do is measure where you want to put the TV and measure the size of your room.
Where will the TV be sitting? Is it in a wall unit that has a fixed size? Does it need to fit into limited space? If you have space restrictions this will play a large part in determining which TV you will ultimately purchase. There is no point considering a massive 58" TV if you don't have the space!
How far back will you be sitting from the TV? A good rule of thumb is to measure the distance from the set and divide by 3. This will give you the size of the TV that is best suited for your room. The table below can be used as a quick lookup.
| Screen Size (inch) | Min Viewing Distance (m (ft)) | Max Viewing Distance (m (ft)) |
| 71cm /28” | 1.0m (3.5) | 2.1m (7) |
| 76cm /30” | 1.1m (3.75) | 2.2m (7.5) |
| 81cm /32” | 1.2m (4) | 2.4m (8) |
| 91cm /36” | 1.3m (4.5) | 2.7m (9) |
| 96cm /38” | 1.4m (4.75) | 2.8m (9.5) |
| 102cm /40” | 1.5m (5) | 3.0m (10) |
| 106cm /42” | 1.6m (5.25) | 3.2m (10.5) |
| 116cm /46” | 1.7m (5.75) | 3.5m (11.5) |
| 121cm /48” | 1.8m (6) | 3.6m (12) |
| 127cm /50” | 1.9m (6.25) | 3.8m (12.5) |
| 132cm /52” | 2.0m (6.5) | 3.9m (13) |
| 137cm /54” | 2.05m (6.75) | 4.1m (13.5) |
| 139cm /56” | 2.15m (7) | 4.2m (14) |
| 147cm /58” | 2.2m (7.25) | 4.4m (14.5) |
| 152cm /60” | 2.7.5m (7.5) | 4.5m (15) |
How much light is in the room?
If the TV is going to be in a bright room, then you want a set that can overcome the light. A bright room might also mean a high chance of glare, therefore a glass screen might not be the best choice. A light room is best for LCD.
Conversely if the room is darker then a model that can give you great detail in dark areas is preferred. A plasma would work better. New LED technology can perform well in either room.
Making a Purchase
Once you have the room figured out, you are then ready to look at the different makes and models available and the features of each set. Your local Retravision store has many models on display for you to compare and the friendly sales staff will be able to take you through the features and benefits of each.