Buying a new TV? Exciting! But before you start setting it up, it’s worth thinking about your set up, where it’s going to go and how you’ll watch it. Getting the right viewing angle makes a big difference to your picture quality and comfort. Here's a simple guide to help you get it spot on.
First Things First – Measure Your Space
Start by measuring the space where your TV will go. Grab a tape measure and check the width, height, and how far back your sofa or chairs are. A good rule of thumb: sit around 1.5 to 2.5 times the size of your TV away from the screen. So, for a 55-inch TV, you’ll want to sit roughly 2 to 3.5 metres back.
Finding the Right Viewing Angle
For the best picture, your TV should be at eye level when you’re sat down. If it’s too high or too low, you’ll strain your neck, and the picture might not look its best. Ideally, the TV should be directly in front of you, with only a slight tilt if needed.
TVs look their best when viewed straight on. If you’re sitting off to the side, the colours might fade or look a bit washed out – especially on basic LED screens. If you want to avoid that, look for a TV with wider viewing angles like OLED or QLED models.
Watch Out for Light and Glare
One thing that can spoil your picture is glare from windows or lights. If your TV faces a window, the sunlight can reflect on the screen and make it hard to see. Blackout blinds or curtains can help or position your TV away from direct light if you can.
Some newer TVs have anti-glare screens, but they’re not perfect, so it’s worth planning.
Check Your Power and Cables
Consider your cables and how best you can hide them. No one wants cables stretched across the room. If you’ve got streaming boxes, consoles, or a soundbar, make sure there are enough plugs nearby for everything.
Think about hiding cables too. No one wants a tangle of wires hanging down behind the telly!
Wall-Mount or TV Stand?
Deciding where to put your TV? You can wall-mount it for a clean, modern look – just make sure the wall can hold the weight. Also, a good idea to secure the TV to avoid any accidental knocks from small children. You’ll also need a bracket that fits your TV (check the manual for the VESA size).
If you’re using a stand, keep it sturdy and at the right height so the screens at eye level.
Let’s Recap
- Measure your space and work out how far back you'll sit
- Aim for the TV to be at eye level
- Avoid placing it where there’s lots of glare
- Make sure power sockets are close by
- Hide cables for a neat finish
- Wall-mount or use a stand depending on your space
Get these things right, and you’ll enjoy comfy, crystal-clear viewing every time!
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