50 vs 55 inch TV
A 55" TV is 4.4" wider and 2.5" taller than a 50" TV, with 21% more screen area. That is a noticeable step up (21% more screen) without changing how the room feels.
| 50" | 55" | Difference | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen width | 43.6" | 47.9" | +4.4" |
| Screen height | 24.5" | 27.0" | +2.5" |
| Screen area | 1068 sq in | 1293 sq in | +21% |
| Immersive seat (THX) | 5 ft | 5 ft 6 in | +0 ft 6 in |
| Relaxed seat (SMPTE) | 6 ft 9 in | 7 ft 5 in | +0 ft 8 in |
Which to pick for your seating distance
| You sit | Better fit |
|---|---|
| 4 ft | Both feel large; 50" is closer to ideal |
| 5 ft | 50" |
| 6 ft | Either |
| 7 ft | 55" |
| 8 ft | 55" (or larger) |
About each size
50": A standard bedroom and small living-room size; almost every LCD range includes a 50-inch model.
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 50 inch?
The 55" screen is 4.4" wider and 2.5" taller, with 21% more area.
Should I get a 50 or 55 inch TV for 6 feet?
Either works from 6 ft; the 55" feels more immersive, the 50" more relaxed.