How To Change Screen Size on Samsung TV Without Remote

Are you tired of seeing black bars on the sides of your Samsung TV screen or having parts of the picture cut off? Do you want to adjust the screen size to optimize your viewing experience but can’t find your remote? Don’t worry; you’re not alone. Many Samsung TV owners face this issue, but the good news is that you can easily change the screen size without using your remote.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll walk you through the various methods to adjust your Samsung TV’s screen size settings, including using the TV controller buttons, the SmartThings app, and even voice control. We’ll also explain the different picture size and aspect ratio options, help you choose the right settings for various content types, and provide troubleshooting tips for common screen size issues. Plus, we’ll dive into advanced screen size adjustments, recommend optimal viewing distances, and discuss screen size settings specific to popular Samsung TV models. By the end of this article, you’ll be a pro at customizing your Samsung TV’s screen size to suit your preferences and enjoy a seamless viewing experience.

Accessing Picture Size Settings Without a Remote

When you don’t have your Samsung TV remote handy, you can still access and change the picture size settings using alternative methods. Here are three ways to do it:

Using the TV Controller Buttons

Most Samsung TVs come with built-in controller buttons that allow you to navigate the settings menu without a remote. Here’s how to use them:

1. Locate the controller buttons on your Samsung TV. Depending on your model, they may be located on the back, bottom, or side of the TV.
2. Press the Menu, Home, or Settings button to open the TV’s settings menu.
3. Use the directional buttons (up, down, left, right) to navigate to the “Picture” or “Picture Size” option in the menu.
4. Press the center button to select the option and access the available picture size settings.
5. Use the directional buttons to choose your desired picture size setting and press the center button to apply the changes.

Using the SmartThings App

If your Samsung TV is connected to the internet, you can use the SmartThings app on your smartphone to control your TV and change the screen size settings. Here’s how:

1. Download and install the SmartThings app on your Android or iOS device from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
2. Open the app and sign in with your Samsung account. If you don’t have one, create a new account.
3. Tap the “+” icon to add a new device, then select “TV” from the list of device types.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to connect your Samsung TV to the SmartThings app. Make sure your TV and smartphone are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
5. Once connected, select your TV from the list of devices in the SmartThings app.
6. Tap on the “Remote Control” option to access the virtual remote interface.
7. Use the virtual remote to navigate to the “Picture Size” settings and select your desired option.

Alternative Methods for Adjusting Screen Size

In addition to the TV controller buttons and SmartThings app, you can also adjust your Samsung TV’s screen size using:

1. Voice control with Bixby or Alexa: If your Samsung TV supports voice control, you can use compatible voice assistants like Bixby or Alexa to change the picture size settings hands-free. Simply say, “Hey Bixby/Alexa, change the picture size to 16:9 on my Samsung TV.”
2. Connecting a universal remote or keyboard: If you have a compatible universal remote or wireless keyboard, you can program it to work with your Samsung TV and use it to navigate the settings menu and adjust the screen size.

Understanding Samsung TV Screen Size Options

Samsung TVs offer several picture size and aspect ratio settings to accommodate different types of content and viewer preferences. Let’s take a closer look at these options:

Picture Size Settings

1. 16:9 Standard: This is the default setting that fits most modern TV content, displaying the picture in a 16:9 aspect ratio without any cropping or stretching.
2. 4:3: This setting is suitable for older TV content or broadcasts that have a 4:3 aspect ratio. It will display black bars on the sides of the screen to maintain the original aspect ratio.
3. Custom: This option allows you to manually adjust the screen size by zooming in or out and changing the position of the picture. It’s useful for fine-tuning the display to your liking.
4. Fit to Screen: This setting automatically adjusts the picture size to fill the entire screen, regardless of the original aspect ratio. It may crop or stretch the image in the process.
5. Auto Wide: This option automatically detects the incoming signal and adjusts the screen size to provide the optimal viewing experience without distortion.

Aspect Ratio Settings

1. Original: This setting maintains the original aspect ratio of the content, which can be 4:3, 16:9, or other ratios. It will display black bars on the sides, top, or bottom of the screen if the content doesn’t match the TV’s native aspect ratio.
2. Auto Wide: This option automatically adjusts the screen size based on the incoming signal, ensuring that the picture fills the screen without excessive cropping or stretching.
3. 4:3: This setting displays content in a 4:3 aspect ratio, suitable for older TV shows and movies. It will have black bars on the sides of the screen when viewed on a widescreen TV.
4. 16:9: This is the standard widescreen aspect ratio for modern TV content, filling the entire screen without black bars.
5. Zoom: This setting enlarges the picture to fill the screen, cropping some of the content on the sides, top, and bottom. It’s useful for removing black bars on letterboxed content or for a closer view of the picture.
6. Direct Full: This option displays the incoming signal without any scaling or processing, which may result in a smaller picture with black bars around the edges.

Differences Between Picture Size and Aspect Ratio Settings

While Picture Size and Aspect Ratio settings may seem similar, they serve different purposes:

• Picture Size settings adjust the size and position of the image on the screen, determining how much of the screen is filled and whether any content is cropped.
• Aspect Ratio settings, on the other hand, determine the proportional relationship between the width and height of the picture, maintaining the original geometry of the content.

Understanding the difference between these settings will help you choose the right combination for your content and preferences.

Adjusting Screen Size Settings for Different Content Types

Different types of content, such as movies, TV shows, sports, and video games, may have varying aspect ratios and display requirements. Here’s how to choose the right picture size settings for each content type:

Movies and TV Shows

• For cinematic content that is letterboxed (black bars on the top and bottom), use the Original or 16:9 aspect ratio setting to preserve the intended aspect ratio and display the full picture.
• For broadcast content in a 4:3 or 16:9 aspect ratio, use the corresponding 4:3 or 16:9 picture size setting to fill the screen without distortion.

Gaming

• For retro video games designed for 4:3 displays, use the 4:3 aspect ratio setting to maintain the original gameplay experience and avoid stretching.
• For modern video games designed for widescreen displays, use the 16:9 or Fit to Screen setting to fill the entire TV screen and enjoy a more immersive gaming experience.
• Activate Game Mode on your Samsung TV to optimize screen size, reduce input lag, and enhance overall gaming performance.

Sports

• To get a closer view of the action, use the Zoom picture size setting to enlarge the picture and crop out some of the surrounding areas.
• For a full view of the playing field or court, use the 16:9 or Auto Wide setting to display the entire area without cropping.

Streaming Content (Netflix, Hulu, etc.)

• Most streaming platforms offer content in a 16:9 aspect ratio, so use the 16:9 Standard or Auto Wide setting for optimal viewing.
• If you encounter black bars on the sides or top/bottom of the screen, try adjusting the Picture Size setting to Custom or Fit to Screen to fill the display.

Remember to experiment with different settings to find the best balance between picture size, aspect ratio, and your personal viewing preferences for each content type.

Advanced Screen Size Adjustments

For those looking to fine-tune their Samsung TV’s screen size settings, here are some advanced adjustments you can make:

Using the Zoom and Position Settings

The Zoom and Position settings allow you to manually adjust the picture size and placement on the screen. To access these settings:

1. Go to the “Picture Size” menu and select the “Custom” option.
2. Use the directional buttons to zoom in or out and change the position of the picture.
3. Press the “Apply” or “Enter” button to save your adjustments.

This feature is particularly useful for content with unusual aspect ratios or when you want to focus on a specific part of the picture.

Adjusting the Overscan Settings

Overscan is a feature that slightly enlarges the picture to ensure that the edges of the content are not visible on the screen. However, this can sometimes result in cropped content. To adjust the overscan settings:

1. Go to the “Picture” menu and select “Expert Settings” or “Advanced Settings”.
2. Find the “Overscan” option and toggle it on or off based on your preference.
3. Some models may offer a “Custom” overscan setting that allows you to manually adjust the amount of overscan applied.

Calibrating the Screen Size with Test Patterns

To ensure that your Samsung TV’s screen size is accurately calibrated, you can use test patterns to check for overscan, aspect ratio, and picture placement issues. Here’s how:

1. Find a reliable test pattern image or video online, such as the “AVS HD 709” or “THX Aspect Ratio” patterns.
2. Display the test pattern on your Samsung TV using a USB drive or by casting from your smartphone.
3. Adjust the Picture Size and Aspect Ratio settings until the test pattern fills the screen properly and all markers are visible.
4. For more advanced calibration, consider using a professional calibration disc or hiring a trained technician to optimize your TV’s settings.

Troubleshooting Common Screen Size Issues

Even with the right picture size settings, you may encounter some common issues that affect your viewing experience. Here are a few problems and their solutions:

Screen Cut Off or Content Missing

• Adjust the Picture Size setting to 16:9 Standard or Original to display the full content without cropping.
• Check the source device settings (cable box, gaming console, etc.) to ensure the output resolution matches your TV’s native resolution.

Black Bars on the Sides, Top, or Bottom

• Choose the appropriate aspect ratio setting (4:3 or 16:9) that matches the content’s original format to eliminate black bars.
• Use the Zoom or Custom picture size settings to enlarge the image and fill the screen, but be aware that some content may be cropped in the process.

Stretched or Distorted Picture

• Select the Original aspect ratio setting to display the content in its native format without stretching or distortion.
• Check the source device settings to ensure the output aspect ratio is set correctly and matches the content’s original format.

Picture Size Option Grayed Out or Unavailable

• Disconnect and reconnect the source device (HDMI cable, etc.) to reset the connection and enable the picture size options.
• Update your TV’s firmware to the latest version, as outdated software may cause issues with accessing certain settings.
• Reset your TV to factory settings as a last resort, which will erase all custom settings but may resolve any software-related issues preventing access to picture size options.

Screen Size Changes When Changing Input Sources

• Adjust the Picture Size setting for each input source separately to ensure the optimal screen size for different devices.
• Save your preferred Picture Size settings to a custom preset for easy access when switching between input sources.

If you’ve tried these troubleshooting steps and are still experiencing issues, consult your Samsung TV’s user manual or contact Samsung customer support for further assistance.

Tips and Tricks for Optimal Screen Size and Viewing Experience

To get the most out of your Samsung TV and enjoy the best viewing experience, consider these tips and tricks:

1. Sit at the recommended distance from your TV based on its screen size. A general rule of thumb is to sit at a distance of 1.5 to 2.5 times the diagonal screen size for the best balance of immersion and comfort. For example, if you have a 55-inch TV, sit between 6.9 and 11.5 feet away.
2. Use the Film Mode setting when watching cinematic content to preserve the original 24fps frame rate and enjoy a more authentic movie theater experience.
3. Calibrate your TV’s picture settings (brightness, contrast, color, etc.) using professional calibration tools or built-in picture modes to ensure accurate colors and optimal image quality.
4. Experiment with Custom and Zoom picture size settings to find the perfect balance between filling the screen and maintaining the content’s original composition. Don’t be afraid to adjust these settings based on your personal preferences and the specific content you’re watching.
5. Save your custom screen size settings to a preset or “Custom” mode for quick access when switching between different content types or input sources.

By following these tips and tricks, you can fine-tune your Samsung TV’s screen size and picture settings to enjoy the best possible viewing experience for all your favorite content.

Screen Size Settings for Samsung TV Models

While most Samsung TV models share similar screen size settings, some may have unique features or options. Here’s a quick overview of screen size settings for popular Samsung TV series:

QLED TV Series (Q60T, Q70T, Q80T, Q90T, etc.)

• Access picture size settings through the “Picture” menu or by pressing the “P.Size” button on the remote.
• Offers standard picture size options like 16:9 Standard, 4:3, Fit to Screen, and Custom.
• Supports advanced features like AI Upscaling and Adaptive Picture for optimal screen size and picture quality.

The Frame TV Series

• Designed to blend in with home décor by displaying artwork or photos when not in use.
• Access picture size settings through the “Picture” menu or the SmartThings app.
• Offers unique aspect ratio options like Art Mode and Portrait Mode for displaying vertical content.

UHD TV Series (TU8000, TU8300, etc.)

• Access picture size settings through the “Picture” menu or by pressing the “P.Size” button on the remote.
• Offers standard picture size options like 16:9 Standard, 4:3, Fit to Screen, and Custom.
• Supports HDR content and optimized screen size settings for enhanced visual quality.

Crystal UHD TV Series (TU7000, AU8000, etc.)

• Access picture size settings through the “Picture” menu or by pressing the “P.Size” button on the remote.
• Offers standard picture size options like 16:9 Standard, 4:3, Fit to Screen, and Custom.
• Features Crystal Processor 4K for improved picture quality and screen size optimization.

Consult your specific Samsung TV model’s user manual for more information on available screen size settings and features.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Adjusting your Samsung TV’s screen size without a remote may seem daunting at first, but with the right knowledge and tools, it’s a simple process. By using your TV’s controller buttons, the SmartThings app, or alternative methods like voice control, you can easily access and change the picture size settings to suit your preferences and the content you’re watching.

Remember to experiment with different picture size and aspect ratio settings to find the perfect balance for your viewing needs. Whether you’re watching movies, TV shows, sports, or playing video games, there’s a screen size setting that will enhance your experience and eliminate common issues like black bars or cropped content.

If you encounter any persistent screen size issues, don’t hesitate to try the troubleshooting steps outlined in this guide or reach out to Samsung customer support for further assistance. With a little patience and know-how, you’ll be able to enjoy your Samsung TV to the fullest, with a picture that fits just right.

Do you have any other tips or tricks for adjusting your Samsung TV’s screen size? Share your experiences and ideas in the comments section below, and let’s help each other make the most of our Samsung TVs!