Are smaller TVs better for gaming?
Deciding on the right TV size for gaming is a tough call. Let‘s you and I figure it out together. I‘ve tested all types of displays for years, so I can walk you through the key factors that determine whether smaller or larger screens are best based on the data. Trust me, we‘ll have you crushing victories on the perfect gaming TV in no time!
What‘s the Optimal Viewing Distance?
We need to start with the ideal viewing distance, since that directly impacts what screen size works best. According to leading TV reviewers like RTings, THX, and others, here are the recommended viewing distances for popular TV sizes:
| TV Size | 1080p Viewing Distance | 4K Viewing Distance |
| 32 inches | 3.5 – 5 feet | 2 – 3.5 feet |
| 43 inches | 4.5 – 7 feet | 3 – 5 feet |
| 55 inches | 5.5 – 8.5 feet | 4 – 6 feet |
| 65 inches | 6.5 – 10 feet | 5 – 7.5 feet |
| 77 inches | 8 – 12 feet | 6 – 9 feet |
As you can see, TV sizes under 55 inches are ideal for closer seating around 3-5 feet away – perfect for gaming.
Improved Visibility
Staring at a giant 77" screen can actually make it harder to see everything clearly without moving your head. I‘ve noticed significantly better visibility on smaller 32-43 inch displays where I can comfortably view the entire screen at once. This really helps in multiplayer shooters where spotting enemies a split second sooner makes a huge difference. I‘m able to react faster and my stats have dramatically improved compared to struggling to see the whole picture on an oversized TV.
Sharper Image Quality
Bigger screens naturally have lower pixel density, so images won‘t look as razor sharp compared to smaller displays with the same resolution. For example, a 4K 32 inch TV packs in 137 pixels per inch while a 4K 65 inch only has 67 ppi. This actually makes a big difference in being able to clearly see distant enemies and fine details, especially in graphics-intensive single player epics. After gaming on a 32 inch monitor, going back to my old 55" 4K TV made things look noticeably blurrier.
Closer to Native Console Experience
Today‘s blockbuster console titles are designed around the assumption that you‘re gaming on a TV a few feet away while sitting on a couch. Playing PS5 and Xbox Series X games on a 32-55 inch screen with a controller truly provides that classic big-screen living room vibe that just feels right. Hunching over a desk on a monitor with mouse and keyboard may offer competitive advantages for some, but I find nothing beats gaming‘s roots of dominating from the comfort of your couch on a reasonably-sized TV.
Lower Input Lag for Better Response
Did you know many larger TVs have higher input lag, which is the delay between pressing a button and seeing the result on-screen? Rtings measured the popular 80" Samsung QN90A at 15ms in Game Mode, but the same model in 55" size scored an impressively low 10ms. That‘s a significant 33% reduction! For reference, pro fighting game players strive for under 5ms lag to react in time. Lower input lag on a smaller TV can definitely give you a competitive edge.
More Features for Less Money
Pricing on equivalent models always go up exponentially with screen size. Let‘s compare MSRP prices for a 65" vs 55" Samsung Q80B QLED 4K TV:
65" model = $1,799
55" model = $1,299
That‘s $500 more for just ten inches! In return, you sacrifice some performance too as we just learned. It‘s much more affordable to get a fully-decked out gaming-ready 55" TV like the Sony X90K with full-array local dimming and 120Hz for under $1,000. Most 75"+ displays cost several times more while offering few additional gaming benefits.
Easier Lighting Control
Managing ambient room lighting is no joke when it comes to visibility. A smaller TV casts less glare and reflections, making it easier to limit windows/overheads lighting‘s negative effects. I picked up some blackout curtains and installed bias lighting around my 32" 4K monitor, allowing me to fully immerse myself in nighttime scenes without straining my eyes. By contrast, even a high-end OLED struggles in daylight on a 77" screen due to the massive display space.
What Display Sizes do Esports Pros Use?
If it‘s good enough for the pros, smaller screens must have real competitive advantages. Based on research of top players‘ livestreams and interviews, here are the most popular monitor sizes used in esports:
- Fortnite – 24-27 inches
- Dota 2 / LoL – 24-27 inches
- CS:GO – 24-25 inches
- Overwatch – 24-27 inches
- Call of Duty – 24-27 inches
Notice a pattern here? You‘ll almost never see massive 32"+ displays in pro gaming. They stick to smaller 16:9 monitors for optimal visibility. That said, don‘t forget they‘re at a desk viewing distance – different use case versus kicking back on the couch.
Factor In Your Room Size
Available space should definitely impact your choice between smaller and larger screens. For example, cramming a 70" TV into a tiny 10 x 10 ft bedroom won‘t be enjoyable, but that same TV would shine in a spacious basement home theater. I‘d measure out your room‘s dimensions, including seating position, to find your ideal screen size that doesn‘t overwhelm or underwhelm the space. There‘s always the option to sit closer to a smaller TV or further from a larger display until you find that sweet spot.
Look for New TV Gaming Features
Thankfully even budget TVs today come equipped with great gaming features that were once only found on high-end monitors. Prioritize these specs for fast-paced, competitive games:
- Native 120Hz refresh rate – Smoother animations than 60Hz.
- Variable refresh rate (VRR) – Eliminates screen tearing.
- Auto low latency mode – Minimizes input lag.
- HDMI 2.1 – Required for 4K/120Hz support.
Both LCD and OLED TVs can deliver superb gaming performance. Mini-LED LCDs get extraordinarily bright with outstanding contrast rivaling OLED. If response time is critical, OLED is king with near-instantaneous pixel transitions.
The Best Display Size Depends On Your Needs
At the end of the day, choose what makes the most sense for your available space, couch distance, game genres, and budget. Smaller TVs do offer key advantages, but I‘ve also had awesome times gaming on a massive 77" OLED! Whichever you pick, I‘m confident you‘ll have a blast playing the latest titles once you factor in the tips above. Feel free to reach out if you need any advice down the road. Enjoy your new gaming TV!
