Let's face it: we all love to sit down to watch a good movie or a favorite TV show. In fact, it is said that the average American spends up to 5 hours in front of the big screen every day. That's a lot of device time! You can spend a lot of time researching your new TV, but it's equally important to find a home entertainment solution that fully supports the TV and works well in your space. How do you determine the right fit for your home? Read on to our full buying guide.
BEFORE YOU SHOP
Find the True Size of Your TV
When buying a new TV, you often think of the medium size, which narrows down your options and makes the buying process a bit easier. But regardless of the size you choose in the end, manufacturers are actually advertising the diagonal length of the screen. That means a 55-inch TV, for example, is just a representation of the diagonal length from the bottom left corner of the screen to the top right corner of the screen.
To get the actual TV size, you will need to measure the overall width starting from the left outer edge of the TV (or bezel) to the rightmost edge. You will also want to measure the overall height (from the TV stand to the top edge of the bezel) and the overall depth (from the front of the TV to the back, including the TV stand). Your TV stand will need to meet overall width, depth, and height measurements for a comfortable, stylish, and secure viewing experience.
How to Find the Correct Size TV Stand
Now that you have the actual TV size, you should have a better idea of what TV size is needed. You'll want to find a stand that is at least 2-3 inches wider than the overall width of the TV on the sides. You'll also want to make sure there's enough room in the front and back of your TV.
Setting enough room on all sides will ensure that your TV holder not only holds your TV securely but also follows basic interior design principles to avoid the appearance of being too heavy or unbalanced.
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Measure the Height
For the ultimate viewing experience, you will want to make sure your TV holder supports the TV at a comfortable, natural height. Buying a TV stand that is too high or too short may cause or worsen existing neck fatigue or eye strain problems. The general rule of thumb is to place the center of your TV at or just below eye level.
To calculate the optimal TV stand height, measure the distance from the floor to the average viewer line in your home. Once you have that number, subtract half of the TV's height. Your TV stand should be within an inch or two.
Go The Distance
Also, you'll want to make sure your TV is at the right distance from where you'll be watching. The general rule of thumb is to place your TV at a distance that is twice the size of your screen (remember, these are diagonal measurements!). So, for example, a TV with a screen size of 55 inches should be placed at a distance of 110 inches.
Placement Is Everything
Finally, if your room layout gives you flexibility in placing your TV, try to keep the TV as far away from vents and heating / cooling windows as possible. You should also avoid direct sunlight to avoid bright sunlight during the day.
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TV STAND STYLE GUIDE
Now that you have a general guide in choosing the right sized TV stand for your TV, it's time to shop! There are a number of different styles to choose from depending on your spatial layout, so we've put together a complete guide to the style below.
Small
Includes a wide selection of styles. When you need a compact design for a smaller space, consider a smaller-sized TV stand that easily supports the TV without taking up your space.
Styles to consider:
- TV credenzas
- TV consoles
- Corner consoles
Common size range:
- 42″ – 60″
Perfect for:
- Studio apartments
- Lofts
- Bedrooms
- Playrooms
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Medium
When you need a solution that offers more surface area in addition to the built-in storage features, the TV stand is just the perfect fit for you. Many options even offer heater inserts that can add extra warmth to your space while you tune in to your favorite shows.
Styles to consider:
- TV credenzas
- TV consoles
- Fireplace consoles
Common size range:
- 64″ – 70″
Perfect for:
- Living rooms
- Master suites
- Home theaters
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Large
When you get really serious about watching all the latest movies and TV series - and don't forget to play games - you'll find large TV stands especially helpful. In addition to the optional heater inserts we mentioned above, you'll find any number of built-in shelves, drawers, compartments and cabinets for organizing and storing. You'll also find convenient wire-management cutout holes to keep unsightly cords and wires out of view.
Styles to consider:
- Wall units
- Entertainment centers
- Media cabinets
- Media consoles
- Fireplace consoles
Common size range:
- 74″ – 85″
Perfect for:
- Living rooms
- Home theaters
