48 vs 55 inch TV
A 55" TV is 6.1" wider and 3.4" taller than a 48" TV, with 31% more screen area. That is a noticeable step up (31% more screen) without changing how the room feels.
| 48" | 55" | Difference | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen width | 41.8" | 47.9" | +6.1" |
| Screen height | 23.5" | 27.0" | +3.4" |
| Screen area | 984 sq in | 1293 sq in | +31% |
| Immersive seat (THX) | 4 ft 9 in | 5 ft 6 in | +0 ft 8 in |
| Relaxed seat (SMPTE) | 6 ft 6 in | 7 ft 5 in | +0 ft 11 in |
Which to pick for your seating distance
| You sit | Better fit |
|---|---|
| 4 ft | Both feel large; 48" is closer to ideal |
| 5 ft | 48" |
| 6 ft | Either |
| 7 ft | 55" |
| 8 ft | 55" (or larger) |
About each size
48": Mostly an OLED size; LCD ranges usually go from 43 straight to 50 inches.
55": The second most searched TV size and usually the smallest size offered across premium OLED and Mini-LED ranges.
Questions
How much bigger is a 55 inch TV than a 48 inch?
The 55" screen is 6.1" wider and 3.4" taller, with 31% more area.
Should I get a 48 or 55 inch TV for 6 feet?
Either works from 6 ft; the 55" feels more immersive, the 48" more relaxed.