40 vs 50 inch TV
A 50" TV is 8.7" wider and 4.9" taller than a 40" TV, with 56% more screen area. That is a big jump: the 50" has 1.56× the screen of the 40" and will dominate a small room.
| 40" | 50" | Difference | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen width | 34.9" | 43.6" | +8.7" |
| Screen height | 19.6" | 24.5" | +4.9" |
| Screen area | 684 sq in | 1068 sq in | +56% |
| Immersive seat (THX) | 4 ft | 5 ft | +1 ft |
| Relaxed seat (SMPTE) | 5 ft 5 in | 6 ft 9 in | +1 ft 4 in |
Which to pick for your seating distance
| You sit | Better fit |
|---|---|
| 3 ft | Both feel large; 40" is closer to ideal |
| 4 ft | 40" |
| 5 ft | Either |
| 6 ft | 50" |
| 7 ft | 50" (or larger) |
About each size
40": One of the smallest sizes where 4K is widely sold, though plenty of 40-inch models are still Full HD. Popular for bedrooms and small lounges.
50": A standard bedroom and small living-room size; almost every LCD range includes a 50-inch model.
Questions
How much bigger is a 50 inch TV than a 40 inch?
The 50" screen is 8.7" wider and 4.9" taller, with 56% more area.
Should I get a 40 or 50 inch TV for 5 feet?
Either works from 5 ft; the 50" feels more immersive, the 40" more relaxed.