Shopping for a TV sounds easy until you meet the numbers. That’s where 42 inch TV width and height suddenly steal the spotlight. The screen may say 42 inches, but your wall, cabinet, or sanity needs more details. Width, height, depth, stands, bezels welcome to the part no one warns you about. This guide breaks it all down in plain English, without the tech headache. You’ll learn exactly how big a 42 inch TV really is, why two “same size” TVs look different, and how to avoid the classic “it doesn’t fit” moment. Measure once, buy smart, and keep your walls drama-free.
What “42 Inches” Really Means on a TV Box
Let’s start with the most misunderstood part.
A 42 inch TV size measures the screen diagonally from corner to corner. That’s it. It doesn’t include the frame, the stand, or the depth of the TV.
Think of it like measuring a pizza. The diameter tells you something, but it doesn’t tell you how much space the box takes on the table.
The diagonal measurement includes
- The visible screen only
- Corner to corner length
- No bezel
- No stand
The diagonal measurement ignores
- Total TV width
- TV height with stand
- TV thickness
- Wall clearance needs
This is why two TVs with the same screen size can look noticeably different in real life.
Quick Snapshot: 42 Inch TV Dimensions at a Glance
Before going deep, here’s a realistic overview based on modern LED and OLED TVs currently on the market.
Average 42 Inch TV Dimensions
| Measurement | Inches | Centimeters |
|---|---|---|
| Width | 36.5 – 37.5 in | 92.7 – 95.3 cm |
| Height (without stand) | 20.5 – 21.5 in | 52.1 – 54.6 cm |
| Height (with stand) | 22.5 – 24 in | 57.1 – 61 cm |
| Depth | 1.5 – 3 in | 3.8 – 7.6 cm |
These ranges exist because design choices matter. Bezels, stands, and panel types all change the final size.
42 Inch TV Width Explained Clearly
The 42 inch TV width is the most important number when deciding if a TV will fit on a stand, shelf, or wall.
Typical 42 Inch TV Width
- Screen only width: 35.6 inches
- Total width with bezel: 36.5 to 37.5 inches
That extra inch often decides whether the TV fits or not.
A slim bezel still adds noticeable width once you measure the full frame.
Why width varies between TVs
- Bezel thickness
- Frame design
- OLED vs LED panels
Width Comparison by Design Style
| TV Design | Approximate Width |
|---|---|
| Ultra thin bezel OLED | 36.5 in |
| Standard LED | 37.2 in |
| Thick frame LED | 37.8 in |
Tip: Always measure furniture space, then subtract at least 1–2 inches for breathing room.
42 Inches TV Height Explained (With and Without Stand)
Height is where many people get surprised.
Height Without Stand
- Average: 20.5 – 21.5 inches
This measurement matters most for wall mounting.
Height With Stand
- Average: 22.5 – 24 inches
Stands usually raise the TV by 2–3 inches.
Height Breakdown Table
| Setup | Height |
|---|---|
| Screen only | 21 in |
| Low profile stand | 22.5 in |
| Tall pedestal stand | 24 in |
Common oversight: Buying a sound bar that blocks the bottom of the screen because the stand is too low.
37 Inch TV Width and Height Explained
42 Inch TV Depth and Thickness
Depth doesn’t sound exciting until cables get involved.
Typical 42 Inches TV Depth
- Panel thickness: 1 – 1.5 inches
- Deepest point (ports + back panel): 2.5 – 3 inches
Ports and cable bends usually stick out more than expected.
Why depth still matters
- Flush wall mounting
- Proper ventilation
- Cable routing
Even the slimmest TV needs space behind it.
Advertised Size vs Real Physical Size
The number on the box is marketing-friendly. Your wall is not.
Advertised Size
- 42 inches diagonal
- Screen only
Real Physical Footprint
- Includes bezels
- Includes stand
- Includes rear housing
Two TVs labeled “42 inch” can differ by more than an inch in width or height.
Rule of thumb: Always read the full dimensions section in the spec sheet.
42 Inch TV Dimensions Across Popular Brands
TV sizes aren’t standardized beyond the diagonal.
Brand Comparison (Approximate)
| Brand | Width | Height (with stand) |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung 42 inch TV dimensions | 37.2 in | 23.8 in |
| LG 42 inch TV dimensions | 36.6 in | 23.1 in |
| Sony 42 inch TV dimensions | 37.5 in | 24 in |
OLED models usually appear slimmer due to thinner panels and minimal bezels.
Ideal Viewing Distance for a 42 Inch TV
Screen size feels right only when distance is right.
Recommended Viewing Distance
- 4K TVs: 5 to 7 feet
- 1080p TVs: 6.5 to 8 feet
Viewing Distance Table
| Resolution | Distance |
|---|---|
| 4K UHD | 5 – 7 ft |
| Full HD | 6.5 – 8 ft |
At 42 inches, moving to 8K rarely adds visible detail.
Will a 42 Inches TV Fit Your Room?
Use this simple fit test before buying.
Horizontal Fit Test
- Measure wall or furniture width
- Leave 2 inches of clearance on each side
Vertical Fit Test
- Center of screen should align with eye level
- Account for soundbars and shelves
Corner Placement Reality
Corners save space but increase glare and reduce viewing angles.
Corner setups work best in bedrooms and secondary rooms.
Wall Mounting a 42 Inch TV the Right Way
Wall mounting looks clean when done correctly.
Common VESA Patterns
- 200 × 200 mm
- 300 × 200 mm
Clearance Rules
- 2–3 inches behind the TV
- Space for cable bends
- Airflow gap for cooling
Wall Mount Checklist
- Stud alignment
- Weight rating
- Tilt or fixed mount decision
Transporting a 42 Inch TV Safely
Most TV damage happens during transport.
Should You Lay a TV Flat?
No. Flat pressure can crack the panel.
Typical 42 Inches TV Box Size
- Width: 41 inches
- Height: 26 inches
- Depth: 6 inches
Can It Fit in a Car?
- Sedan: Rarely
- SUV: Yes
- Hatchback: Sometimes
Always transport upright and secured.
Technical Factors That Change 42 Inches TV Size
Small design differences matter.
Bezel Thickness
Thicker bezels increase width noticeably.
Stand Design
Wide or tall stands affect height and depth.
Panel Technology
OLED panels allow slimmer frames than LED.
42 Inches TV Compared to Nearby Sizes
If you’re deciding between sizes, clarity helps.
40 Inch vs 42 Inch TV
- Slight increase in immersion
- Minimal space difference
42 Inch vs 43 Inch TV
- Very similar footprint
- 43 inch models often cost more
Size Comparison
| Size | Best For |
|---|---|
| 40 inch | Very tight spaces |
| 42 inch | Bedrooms, small living rooms |
| 43 inch | Slightly larger setups |
Common Mistakes People Make
Avoid these and installation becomes stress-free.
- Measuring only the diagonal
- Ignoring stand height
- Forgetting wall clearance
- Skipping VESA compatibility
These mistakes cause most returns and regrets.
Digital tool
Digital tools like Feet and Inches Calculator can convert inches to centimeters or feet instantly. Many smartphone apps now offer augmented reality measuring features, allowing you to gauge objects virtually and compare them to known lengths.
FAQs
How wide is a 42 inch TV in inches?
A 42 inches TV width usually falls between 36.5 and 37.5 inches, depending on bezel thickness and brand design. Always check the full dimensions, not just the screen size.
How tall is a 42 inches TV with and without a stand?
Without a stand, the height is typically 20.5 to 21.5 inches. With a stand attached, the height increases to around 22.5 to 24 inches.
What are the exact 42 inches TV dimensions in cm?
Most 42 inch TVs measure roughly 93–95 cm wide, 52–55 cm tall without a stand, and 57–61 cm tall with a stand.
Does bezel thickness affect the 42 inches TV width?
Yes. Bezel thickness directly increases the overall width and height. Slim bezel TVs take up less space even with the same screen size.
Will a 42 inches TV fit in a small living room?
Yes. A 42 inches TV works well in small living rooms and bedrooms, especially with a viewing distance of 5–7 feet.
Is a 42 inch TV big enough for 4K?
Absolutely. At normal viewing distances, a 42 inch 4K TV delivers sharp detail without requiring extra space.
Can a 42 inches TV be wall mounted?
Most 42 inch TVs support VESA 200×200 or 300×200 mounts, making wall mounting simple with proper clearance.
Final Thought
A 42 inch TV proves that bigger isn’t always better. When you understand the real width, height, depth, and physical footprint, the decision becomes simple instead of stressful. This size fits comfortably in bedrooms, small living rooms, and apartments without overpowering the space. Measure your wall or furniture, factor in the stand or mount, and match the viewing distance to your room. Do that, and a 42 inches TV delivers sharp visuals, easy installation, and everyday comfort no awkward squeezing, no buyer’s remorse. Sometimes, the right fit beats the biggest screen every single time.
Jhon AJS, the author of Dimension Orbit, is an experienced blogger fascinated by the mysteries of existence. He explores every type of dimension from scientific to spiritual with clarity and creativity. Jhon’s engaging writing style invites readers to think deeper, question reality, and discover new perspectives on the universe.
