The 85-inch TV is 351.6% larger by screen area. See the visual overlay and exact measurements below.
The jump from 40" to 85" is one of the most common TV upgrades people consider — and for good reason. The 85-inch screen delivers 351.6% more viewing area than the 40-inch, which means you're getting significantly more screen for your money. In physical terms, the 85" is 39.2 inches wider and 22.1 inches taller. That's not a subtle difference — it's immediately noticeable from across the room.
The 40-inch TV measures 34.86" wide × 19.61" tall (88.55 × 49.81 cm), with a total screen area of 683.68 square inches. The 85-inch TV measures 74.08" wide × 41.67" tall (188.17 × 105.85 cm), with a total screen area of 3087.24 square inches. That's a difference of 2403.6 square inches — roughly 351.6% more screen.
For a 40-inch TV, you'll want to sit between 4 and 6.7 feet away (ideal: about 5.3 feet). For the 85-inch, the sweet spot is 8.5 to 14.2 feet (ideal: about 11.3 feet). If your couch is closer than 8.5 feet to the wall, the 85" might feel overwhelming — the 40" could actually be the better pick for your space.
A 40" TV works well in a bedroom, office, or small apartment living room. The 85" is better suited for a large living room, basement, or home theater. Measure your actual viewing distance before deciding — the "right" size is the one that fits your room, not the biggest one that fits your budget.
If 85" feels like too big a jump, consider the 43" or the 50" or the 55" or the 65" or the 75" as a middle ground. See our comparisons: 40 vs 43" or 43 vs 85", 40 vs 50" or 50 vs 85", 40 vs 55" or 55 vs 85", 40 vs 65" or 65 vs 85", 40 vs 75" or 75 vs 85".
Want to compare custom sizes or different aspect ratios?
Open Full Comparison Tool →