» What size screen should I get for my room, and how far away should I sit for the best picture?
» What else should I be aware of when placing my TV?
» Now that local over-the-air TV broadcasts are digital, how can I watch them on my old analog TV?
» Besides a better picture, are there other benefits to digital television?
» What is the difference between HDTV and DTV?
» What are my choices when it comes to HDTVs?
» I'm interested in a flat-panel LCD or plasma TV. How do I determine which type is right for me?
» What's involved in wall-mounting a flat-panel TV? Can I do it myself?
» Is all high-definition TV content in the 1080i format?
» What is 1080p, and do I really need it?
» What do the "i" and "p" mean in picture resolution numbers?
» What is "120Hz refresh rate"?
» How can I get rid of those black bars on my screen?
» My HDTV looks pretty good, but how can I make sure I'm getting the best possible picture?
» I'm a cable TV subscriber. Do I need a CableCARD to watch programs in HD?
» What should I look for in a TV for gaming?
» How can I connect my computer to my HDTV?
» Why is it that not all TVs with picture-in-picture actually let you watch two stations at once?
Q: What size screen should I get for my room, and how far away should I sit for the best picture?
A: It depends on how big your room is. For a bedroom, kitchen, or office, where you'll probably be pretty close to the TV, you can go with a relatively small screen: 32" or even 26". But for the main TV in your living room or home theater, we recommend getting the largest screen that fits your budget and room. That's based on our own experiences and on feedback from our customers.
Sitting too far away from a smallish screen will reduce the impact and immediacy of the viewing experience. On the other hand, if you're too close to a large screen, you may be distracted by the screen's "pixel structure" — the grid of tiny picture elements that form the TV image. Compared to conventional tube TVs, digital HDTVs have higher-resolution screens (and more space-efficient cabinets) that let you put a larger set in your room and/or sit much closer.
High-quality video material like DVDs and HDTV programs look amazing on these new TVs. But some people also find that noise and distortion in lower-quality analog signals (like standard broadcast and cable) are exposed and magnified. That's why our viewing distance chart (below) offers a range for each screen size. If most of your viewing is DVD-quality or better, you'll see more details by sitting closer. If you watch more regular (non-HD) video, sit farther back for a smoother picture.
We calculated the viewing ranges in the chart below by multiplying the screen size (measured diagonally) by 1-1/2 and 2-1/2.
| Screen size | Viewing distance range |
|---|---|
| 26" | 3.25 - 5.5 feet |
| 32" | 4.0 - 6.66 feet |
| 37" | 4.63 - 7.71 feet |
| 40" | 5.0 - 8.33 feet |
| 42" | 5.25 - 8.75 feet |
| 46" | 5.75 - 9.5 feet |
| 50" | 6.25 - 10.5 feet |
| 52" | 6.5 - 10.8 feet |
| 55" | 6.9 - 11.5 feet |
| 58" | 7.25 - 12 feet |
| 65" | 8.13 - 13.5 feet |
| 70" | 8.75 - 14.75 feet |
Recommended viewing distances for high-definition TVs. We suggest a range because the ideal distance will depend on several factors, including signal quality.
Q: What else should I be aware of when placing my TV?
A: Along with viewing distance, consider viewing height. Ideally, your eyes should be about level with the middle of the screen when you're seated in your normal viewing position. This is especially important for rear-projection TVs since their pictures will look most vivid at this level. We carry a wide selection of TV stands designed to support flat-panel and tabletop rear-projection TVs and raise them to the correct viewing height.
Lighting in your room is another factor that affects your TV's picture. If you do much daytime viewing, daylight shining in through your windows can wash out your TV's picture and also create reflections on the screen. When watching TV at night, lamps and overhead lights can cause similar problems, although they're usually not as severe. You may find that watching with the lights dimmed enhances picture quality.
For more tips on TV placement and room lighting, see our article on choosing the right screen size and placement for your HDTV.
Q: Now that over-the-air TV broadcasts are digital, how can I watch them on my old analog TV?
A: To receive digital TV signals from your local TV stations, any old-fashioned TV (one with an analog-only tuner) needs to be connected to a digital converter box, or replaced by a new TV with a built-in digital tuner. Converter boxes sell for $40 - $80, and are available at many electronics retailers. You can reduce the cost of these boxes significantly by taking advantage of the government's coupon program. You can learn more about the digital transition in our DTV article.
Of course, digital TV reception is only a concern for viewers who rely on local over-the-air broadcasts received via antenna. Cable TV providers typically include local channels in even their most basic subscription packages. Satellite TV providers typically charge a few dollars extra per month for local channels.
Q: Besides a better picture, are there other benefits to digital television?
A: Digital television allows "multicasting" — the transmission of multiple TV channels at once. So, for example, if your local CBS affiliate station used to be analog channel 6, you may now receive digital channel 6.1 carrying CBS programming, plus channels 6.2 and 6.3, carrying different content.
DTV technology can also be used to provide interactive video and data services that aren't possible with analog broadcasts.
Q: What's the difference between HDTV and DTV? Are both high definition?
A: Some people confuse DTV (digital TV) with HDTV (high-definition TV), but they're not the same. DTV is a general term covering all over-the-air digital broadcasts. There are two basic types: medium-quality standard-definition TV (SDTV) and high-quality HDTV. In other words, while HDTV is always digital TV, digital TV isn't always HDTV.
The major TV networks produce nearly all of their primetime programs in HDTV, and they look amazing, but most daytime programming is standard definition. SDTV is about the same quality as a DVD, so the picture is crisp and clear — a big improvement over analog TV signals, but not as sharp and detailed as HDTV. Even after the digital TV transition is completed, we'll still probably see HDTV at night and SDTV during the day. And it may take several years before local news and other programs make the jump to HDTV.
Q: What are my choices when it comes to HDTVs?
A: Most of us grew up watching TVs with picture tubes inside, but the major TV makers have almost completely eliminated tube HDTVs. The current crop of HDTVs are based on various digital display technologies. These TVs cost more than plain old tube TVs did, but they can do a lot more, and they come in much larger screen sizes — and they continue to get better and cheaper.
When you're shopping, you'll find three basic HDTV categories:
- Flat-panel LCD and plasma TVs are extremely popular due to their thin designs and crisp, vivid picture quality. For tips on which type would work best for you, see our article explaining how LCD compares to plasma.
- Rear-projection TVs have also made the switch from picture tubes to digital technologies like DLP. In today's market, rear-projection TVs are great values, costing much less than same-sized flat-panel models. For an in-depth look at these slimmer microdisplay rear-projection models, see our article on how to choose a rear-projection TV.
- Digital projectors have grown more popular recently, in part because HDTV's remarkable picture clarity and detail make it possible to enjoy larger images than ever before — up to 10 feet across or even bigger. You'll find tips on shopping for and installing a projector in our article on what to look for in a projector.
For more ideas on what to look for in an HDTV, watch our short video guide to shopping for an HDTV.
Q: I'm interested in a flat-panel LCD or plasma TV. How do I decide which type is right for me?
A: Flat-panel TVs are extremely popular due both to their elegantly thin designs and sharp, vivid picture quality. Flat-panel advantages include wide viewing angles, a bright picture that can overcome room lights or daylight, and dependable, long-lasting screens.
A plasma TV might be for you if:
- You want really rich, warm colors and deep blacks.
- You or others in the room will be sitting off-axis (viewing the screen from off to the sides rather than directly in front of it) when watching TV or movies.
- Your room setup doesn't put lots of direct light on the TV screen, or if you can easily reduce the light by closing the blinds, for example.
- You don't watch a lot of TV shows or play lots of video games with static images on the screen for more than a few hours at a time.
An LCD TV might be for you if:
- You want a TV with a screen size under 42".
- Your TV room is relatively bright, or you do a lot of daytime viewing.
- You watch a lot of TV shows or play lots of video games with static images on the screen for extended periods of time, multiple days a week.
- You're looking for ways to save energy. LCD TVs often consume less power than plasma models of the same size.
For an in-depth look at how flat-panel TVs work, see our article on LCD vs. plasma.
Q: What's involved in wall-mounting a flat-panel TV? Can I do it myself?
A: Most people who want a flat-panel TV mounted on a wall are after an uncluttered, elegant look. Achieving that means not only installing a wall-mount bracket to hold the TV, but also hiding the power and signal cables running to the TV. If you're comfortable with household tasks like mounting shelving and installing new light fixtures, you can probably handle wall-mounting a TV.
You can watch our video about wall-mounting a flat-panel TV to find out what's involved. Or check out our complete guide to wall-mounting your TV for more details.
Q: Is all high-definition TV content in the 1080i format?
A: No, but most of it is. The bulk of TV production and broadcasting is done at 1080i. However, both ABC's and Fox's HD programming is in 720p and looks very good — especially their sports programming.
- Over-the-air broadcasts: CBS, NBC and PBS use 1080i; ABC and Fox use 720p.
- Premium networks: HBO HD, Showtime HD, Discovery HD, HDNet and INHD use 1080i;
ESPN HD uses 720p. - Digital satellite providers: Both DIRECTV® HD and DISH™ HD channels broadcast mainly in 1080i, although DISH offers some pay-per-view movies in 1080p.
- Cable TV providers: All major cable companies use 1080i.
- IPTV providers (Verizon FiOS, AT&T U-verse): These TV-over-Internet services use 1080i.
Q: What is 1080p, and do I really need it?
A: 1080p is currently the highest HDTV screen resolution available, with 1920 x 1080 pixels and progressive scanning (see "i" vs. "p" question below). Since 1080p is higher than either of the broadcast HD formats (1080i and 720p) it means you can enjoy full picture resolution for all your video sources; the TV won't have to "downconvert" the signal and sacrifice detail. At this point, references to 1080p are mainly about TVs, since the most common 1080p video source is a Blu-ray player. To learn more about HD video resolution, see our article that explains HDTV resolution.
Q: What do the "i" and "p" mean in picture resolution numbers?
A: The "i" and "p" refer to the video frame rate, where "i" stands for interlaced-scan and "p" stands for progressive-scan. These terms originated when all TVs used picture tubes, and images were "scanned" — painted across the screen line by line. Interlaced-scan images required two passes to create a complete video frame, while progressive-scan displayed the entire frame with just one pass (see illustration below). The frame rate for interlaced video is 30 frames per second while progressive-scan video is usually 60 frames per second.
Interlaced scan splits each video frame into two "fields," displaying all the even horizontal scan lines (2,4,6...) in 1/60th of a second, followed by the odd scan lines (1,3,5...) during the next 1/60th of a second. That means you'll see a complete video frame every 1/30th of a second.
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Progressive scan, on the other hand, displays all the lines in a single sweep (1,2,3,4...). You'll see a complete frame every 1/60th of a second.
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Today's digital TV displays are nearly all effectively progressive-scan, so interlaced and progressive are mostly relevant when describing video source signals sent to the TV. The main thing to remember is that a progressive signal has twice as much picture information as an equivalent interlaced signal, and generally looks a little more solid and stable, with on-screen motion that's more fluid.
Want to know more? See our in-depth article on HDTV resolution.
Q: What is "120Hz refresh rate"?
A: The digital display technologies (LCD, plasma, DLP, LCoS, etc.) that have replaced picture tubes are progressive-scan by nature, displaying 60 video frames per second — often referred to as "60Hz." HDTVs with 120Hz refresh rate double the standard rate to 120 frames per second. Because each video frame appears for only half the normal amount of time, on-screen motion looks smoother and more fluid, with less motion blur and smearing. It's especially noticeable when viewing fast-action sports and video games. This feature is mostly found on flat-panel LCD TVs. For a visual demo of how this anti-blur technology works, watch our video explaining 120Hz refresh rate.
Q: I have an HDTV, so whenever the "Available in HD" logo appears on the screen, I'm seeing a high-definition picture, right?
A: No, unfortunately it's not that simple. What that on-screen logo means is that if you have a high-definition TV that is receiving a high-definition signal, you'll be seeing HD. Sources of high-def programming include digital over-the-air broadcasts, and select cable and satellite channels.
If you're not seeing a crisp, clear picture your HDTV was designed to deliver, there's probably an easy solution. To help you figure it out, check out our article on what you need to get HDTV, or watch our short video that explains how to get HDTV.
Q: Primetime shows in high-def look great on my HDTV, but when my local news comes on, the picture isn't as sharp, and it's not widescreen. Why is that?
A: What you're seeing is the difference between high-definition and standard-definition digital broadcasts. At this point, relatively few local TV stations are producing their own shows in high-definition. It's common for stations to show daytime programs in SD (480i or 480p), and primetime network shows in HD (720p or 1080i).
Most HDTVs provide channel ID information, including resolution and aspect ratio. HD programs will be labeled "1080i/16:9" or "720p/16:9," while standard-definition shows are generally "480i/4:3." Usually, 480i over-the-air signals look sharper and clearer than standard satellite and cable TV signals, but they definitely don't have the same detail and depth as high-def.
For tips on how to make non-HD pictures look better, please check out our article on improving non-HD picture quality on your HDTV.
Q: How can I get rid of those black bars on my HDTV?
A: Most non-HD video sources use the squarish 4:3 aspect ratio, which doesn't quite fit a 16:9 widescreen HDTV. Some folks stretch or zoom the image to fill up the screen so that they don't have to see the black bars. That can be a good idea for plasma TV owners as a way to avoid screen burn-in. But if you don't mind the black bars on either side of the picture, we recommend you leave them up. Stretching will distort an already poor signal, and zooming usually makes the image look softer and can further magnify any flaws in the picture.
4:3 image on a 16:9 screenWhen 4:3 programs are displayed on a 16:9 screen, black or gray bars appear on the sides of the screen — the image is "pillar-boxed." |
4:3 image stretched to fill a 16:9 screenOne way to get rid of vertical black bars is to use your TV's stretch mode. Some sets stretch the image evenly across the screen (as above), though a few stretch the edges only and leave the center undistorted. |
4:3 image zoomed to fill a 16:9 screenAnother option is to use the TV's zoom mode to expand the image to fill the screen. This cuts off the top and bottom of the picture, but leaves it undistorted. |
16:9 image on a 16:9 screenWhen you look at the original widescreen version of the image we've been using to show 4:3, you can see just how much of the picture is lost with the 4:3 version. |
Q: My HDTV looks pretty good, but how can I make sure I'm getting the best possible picture?
A: Many new HDTV owners are so knocked out by the big, bright pictures of today's digital TVs that it never occurs to them that they might be able to get an even better picture. First, make sure you're actually getting a high-definition signal. Nearly half of HDTV owners aren't seeing a true high-definition picture, and unfortunately many of them don't even realize it. To make sure you have all the pieces in place to get a high-def picture on your HDTV, watch our video that covers what you need for HDTV.
Two other areas HDTV owners should explore to improve picture quality are picture controls and connections. For helpful tips on both topics, see our article on getting the best picture from your HDTV.
Most HDTV owners still watch a lot of non-HD programs, and because their new sets have larger screens than the conventional TVs they replaced, some viewers are disappointed at the way standard-def TV shows and VHS tapes look on their HDTVs. Learn how to make the most of lower-quality video signals by reading this article on improving non-HD picture quality on your HDTV.
Q: I'm a cable TV subscriber. Do I need a CableCARD to watch programs in HD?
A: No, that's just one of three ways you can watch high-def cable programs. The option that will work best for you depends on the types of HD programs you want to watch, as well as which services are available from your local cable provider (check with them for details on services and pricing). Your options may include:
- An HDTV with a QAM tuner: Most new HDTVs include a built-in QAM digital cable tuner. If you have one of these TVs, you can connect it directly to the cable TV wall jack and watch any unscrambled channels that you subscribe to, including HD channels in many areas, without using a set-top box.
- A CableCARD-ready HDTV: CableCARD-ready TVs include a rear-panel slot for a credit card-sized security card known as a CableCARD. You lease the CableCARD from your local cable service provider (the monthly fee is usually much lower than for a cable box). The CableCARD lets you receive any premium (scrambled) programs that you subscribe to, like HBO or ESPN. However, the CableCARD doesn't duplicate all of the capabilities of a set-top box — you can't order pay-per-view content with the push of a button, and you won't be able to view your cable provider's on-screen program guide. There are currently few CableCARD-ready HDTVs, due mostly to lack of support from cable providers. To learn more about how CableCARDs work, check out our CableCARD article.
- Using an HD cable box with your HDTV: Cable providers that offer HD service usually encourage subscribers to lease an HD-capable set-top box, which allows access to the maximum amount of HD-related programming and services. These HD boxes often include a built-in DVR for recording high-def programs.
Q: Is the picture quality of high-definition satellite and cable TV signals as good as that of over-the-air HD broadcasts?
A: All three of these high-def signal types provide excellent picture quality — dramatically clearer and more detailed than standard DVDs and other video sources. All three types are digital video formats which use "data compression" for more efficient use of broadcast bandwidth. Compression reduces the amount of picture data being sent, so all other things being equal, more compression will reduce picture quality. Typically, over-the-air broadcasts use less compression than either satellite or cable TV signals, and in side-by-side comparisons, over-the-air HD nearly always looks noticeably sharper and cleaner.
Q: I just bought an HDTV and now I want a better DVD player. Should I get an upconverting player or a Blu-ray player?
A: An upconverting DVD player converts regular DVD video to a resolution — like 720p, 1080i or 1080p — that more closely matches the screen resolution of HDTVs. The picture looks noticeably sharper than a regular DVD player, but it's not really high-def because the original source, the DVD, isn't high definition.
For true high-definition video from a disc, consider a Blu-ray Disc™ player. These players deliver high-def video at 1080p, 1080i or 720p — you can choose the resolution that best matches the screen resolution of your HDTV. And as a bonus, Blu-ray players typically do an excellent job upconverting standard DVDs.
Whether you choose an upconverting or a high-definition player, most models can only send their highest-quality video to a TV via an HDMI connection. For the best picture quality from these players, be sure your TV has at least one HDMI input.
Q: What should I look for in a TV for gaming?
A: That will depend on which video game console(s) you plan to use, your room and equipment setup, and what kind of gamer you are.
Both the Xbox 360™ and PlayStation® 3 can output 1080p video for games, and the PS3 can play Blu-ray Disc™ high-def movies. Most games are still in 720p, but 1080p games are on the way. To take advantage of that higher resolution, consider getting a 1080p HDTV.
If you often play games with several friends, you might prefer the wider viewing angles offered by flat-panel LCD and plasma TVs. These TVs also deliver very bright pictures, so you can play games in the daytime and still enjoy great color and contrast.
Larger images add to the immersion and impact of video games. If you want more screen for your money, rear-projection HDTVs are great values, offering 1080p picture resolution while costing much less than same-sized flat-panel TVs. And of course, HD projectors can deliver near-life-sized action.
For more specific tips on how to maximize the gaming experience, check out our article about getting great picture and sound with gaming consoles.
Q: How can I connect my computer to my HDTV?
A: If you'd like to connect your computer to your HDTV to use it as a large monitor, or to view photos and videos stored on your computer, there are a few ways to go about it.
First, the video connection. The easiest route will be to use your computer's HDMI, DVI, or VGA output. We recommend HDMI or DVI, since HDTVs often accept higher resolutions over those connections than VGA. And although most TVs today don't have DVI inputs, you can still go that route if you use a DVI-to-HDMI adapter. (Since DVI doesn't carry audio, you'll still need to make a separate connection for sound — see below.) If you opt for VGA, look for an input on the back of your TV labeled "PC." And if none of these options work with your setup, you can use your computer's VGA output and a VGA-to-component-video adapter to connect it to your TV.
Once you see your computer's display on your HDTV, you'll need to set it to the right resolution — otherwise, you may see a pixilated or distorted picture. Be sure to use a resolution your TV is designed to handle (see the TV's owner's manual). If you don't see video displaying on your TV, there's a good chance you chose an incompatible resolution. You can tweak resolution settings by going into "System Preferences," and then the "Displays Preferences" pane.
A note for folks using laptops: You'll need go into your computer's menus to "extend" your desktop to a second monitor — this will allow the computer to display video on your TV, as well as its own monitor. On Windows computers, you can access this menu by right-clicking the desktop, selecting "Properties," and then "Settings." Macs running Tiger or Leopard will auto-detect the new monitor and either "mirror" or extend your desktop.
If you also want to send audio from your computer to your home theater receiver or TV, and you're not using HDMI, you'll need to make a second connection. Many computer sound cards today include optical or coaxial digital audio outputs that can connect to a receiver. If yours doesn't, you may want to consider upgrading your sound card. Or, you can simply use your computer's headphone output — you'll need a mini plug-to-stereo RCA adapter to connect it to your TV or receiver.
Q: Why is it that not all TVs with picture-in-picture actually let you watch two stations at once?
A: TV manufacturers take two basic approaches to picture-in-picture (PIP). With 1-tuner PIP, the TV has one built-in tuner, so you'll need to connect a VCR or other tuner source if you want to watch two different TV broadcasts at once. Actually, with 1-tuner PIP, you can enjoy picture-in-picture with the addition of another video source like a DVD player or camcorder.
A TV with 2-tuner PIP has two built-in tuners, allowing you to watch two different TV broadcasts simultaneously using only the TV.
Q: On some flat-panel TVs, the actual measured screen size is slightly smaller than the advertised screen size. Why is that?
A: Some TV makers list a TV's true screen size if it's different from the advertised size. This difference is only a fraction of an inch — the most common example is 32" LCDs that actually measure 31-1/2". We've not heard any official explanation for the discrepancies. It's likely just the type of rounding up that's been going on for years for products ranging from refrigerators, to car engines, to cans of soda. As with these examples, the screen size difference is nothing to be concerned about. You might notice a half-inch difference on a computer monitor but you won't on a TV.
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