Why Measuring TV Size in Inches Diagonally Makes Sense

When purchasing a television, one might wonder why the size is measured in inches diagonally rather than simply by its width or height. This practice has been an industry standard for decades, and there are several compelling reasons for this measurement practice.

The Marketing Perspective

From a marketing standpoint, it's much more appealing for an advertisement to promote a 55-inch TV rather than a 100-centimeter wide by 50-centimeter high TV. Consumers find it easier to differentiate and compare products based on a single number than juxtaposing two measurements. This makes the differentiation clearer and more straightforward, ultimately leading to a more impactful advertisement.

The Standardized Aspect Ratio

The reason behind the slaughter aspect ratio is also a design choice. The current standard aspect ratio for most TVs is 16:9, which is a compromise between vertical (4:3) and horizontal (16:9) aspect ratios. Historically, early TVs used a 4:3 aspect ratio, but as televisions evolved to be flatter, the aspect ratio shifted to 16:9. Despite the change in aspect ratio, the diagonal measurement remains the standard because the diagonal grows faster than the horizontal or vertical dimension. This means that even when the screen gets wider, the diagonal measurement still provides a more accurate representation of the television's size.

The Historical Context

The tradition of measuring TVs diagonally originates with the original CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) televisions, which were round. These early TVs had no other option but to measure diagonally because of their round shape. Over time, as CRT technology evolved and TVs became flatter, the diagonal measurement remained as a standardized method of measurement. The first widescreen TVs, which emerged around 1993, continued this tradition, ensuring consistency in the industry.

Why This Measurement Standard Is Important

Consistency in the diagonal measurement standard is crucial for the entire industry. It allows consumers to easily compare different models from various manufacturers. When a buyer sees a 55-inch LCD TV from Sony, Samsung, and LG, they can immediately gauge the size and make an informed decision without delving into minute specifications. This single-number system simplifies the purchasing process and enhances consumer confidence in their choice.

While the model numbers and technical specifications might seem confusing, the diagonal measurement provides a clear and concise way to describe the overall size of the TV. This method has stood the test of time and continues to serve both manufacturers and consumers well.

Conclusion

Measuring TVs diagonally in inches is a standardized practice that serves multiple purposes, including marketing and consumer convenience. While it might seem counterintuitive to measure a television's width or height, the diagonal measurement provides a clear and consistent way to describe the size of the screen. This tradition has continued from the early round CRT TVs to the modern flat widescreen models, making it a reliable standard in the industry.