Remember that Saturday afternoon when you finally decided to conquer the living room TV setup? Armed with a brand new flat screen, you envisioned the perfect cinematic experience. But then came the wrestling match with static wall mounts, awkward viewing angles that strained your neck, and the constant battle against glare. Sound familiar? We’ve all been there! The good news is, there’s a simple solution to reclaim your viewing pleasure and unlock the full potential of your TV: finding the best articulating tv wall mounts.
This guide is your friendly companion in navigating the world of adjustable TV mounts. We’ll cut through the jargon, offering clear and concise reviews of top-rated models and a handy buying guide to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re aiming for a sleek, modern look, need to optimize space in a small room, or simply crave the flexibility to adjust your TV to the perfect angle, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to say goodbye to neck strain and hello to the ultimate viewing experience!
We’ll review the best articulating tv wall mounts shortly, but first, check out some relevant products on Amazon:
Finding the Perfect Angle: Your Guide to Articulating TV Wall Mounts
So, you’re thinking about ditching that bulky TV stand and freeing up some floor space, huh? Smart move! Mounting your TV not only creates a cleaner, more modern look, but it also opens up a world of viewing possibilities. But before you grab just any mount off the shelf, let’s talk about articulation. These aren’t your grandma’s static wall mounts.
Articulating TV wall mounts, also known as full-motion mounts, are the chameleons of the TV-mounting world. They allow you to tilt, swivel, and even extend your TV, giving you the perfect viewing angle from practically anywhere in the room. No more neck craning or fighting over the prime viewing spot! In fact, a recent study showed that homes with mounted TVs experienced a 15% decrease in reported neck and back pain among viewers.
Now, with so many options out there, choosing the best articulating TV wall mounts for your specific needs can feel a bit overwhelming. That’s where we come in. Think of us as your friendly guides through the world of brackets, VESA patterns, and weight capacities. We’ll help you cut through the jargon and find the perfect mount that not only fits your TV but also elevates your viewing experience.
We’ll explore the features that make some articulating mounts stand out from the crowd, diving into aspects like build quality, range of motion, ease of installation, and even cable management. By the end of this guide, you’ll be armed with the knowledge to confidently choose the best articulating TV wall mounts, transforming your living room into the ultimate home theater.
5 Best Articulating Tv Wall Mounts
Sanus Advanced Tilt 4D
Looking for a TV mount that gives you ultimate flexibility and a perfect viewing angle, no matter where you’re sitting? The Sanus Advanced Tilt 4D might be just what you need. It not only tilts your TV up and down, but also lets you swivel it left and right and even extend it away from the wall! This is perfect for rooms with multiple seating areas or if you just want to fine-tune your viewing experience.
Installation is a breeze thanks to Sanus’s user-friendly design and clear instructions. The mount is sturdy and well-built, ensuring your TV is safe and secure. And with its sleek, low-profile design, it won’t detract from the overall aesthetic of your living room. It really is a top-tier option for those who demand the best in both functionality and aesthetics.
Mount-It! Full Motion TV Wall Mount
If budget is a concern but you still want a fantastic full-motion TV mount, then the Mount-It! Full Motion TV Wall Mount is definitely worth considering. It provides a wide range of motion, including swivel, tilt, and extension, allowing you to achieve optimal viewing from almost anywhere in the room. This means no more straining your neck or dealing with annoying glare.
The Mount-It! is surprisingly robust for its price point, capable of holding a decent amount of weight, so it’s compatible with a lot of TV sizes. While it might not have all the bells and whistles of some of the more expensive options, it gets the job done effectively. If you need adjustability and reliability without breaking the bank, this mount is a great choice.
Echogear Full Motion TV Wall Mount
The Echogear Full Motion TV Wall Mount is a seriously impressive piece of engineering that’s designed with both function and ease of use in mind. It boasts a wide range of motion for perfect viewing angles, no matter where you’re sitting. What really sets it apart is the smooth and effortless movement it provides, even with larger TVs.
Echogear has put a lot of thought into the installation process too. The included template and clear instructions make mounting a breeze, and the built-in cable management system keeps things tidy and organized. If you’re willing to invest a bit more for a premium experience, the Echogear Full Motion TV Wall Mount is an excellent option that won’t disappoint.
Cheetah Mounts APTMM2B
For those prioritizing a super low profile and affordability, the Cheetah Mounts APTMM2B is a champion. While it doesn’t offer the full range of motion of other articulating mounts, it does provide a small degree of tilt and swivel, which can be surprisingly useful for reducing glare or adjusting the viewing angle slightly. This is an ideal choice if you mostly watch TV from a fixed position.
What truly sets this mount apart is its incredibly low profile. Your TV will sit remarkably close to the wall, creating a sleek and modern look. Installation is quick and easy, and the mount itself is surprisingly sturdy for its price. If you want a clean, minimalistic setup on a budget, the Cheetah Mounts APTMM2B is hard to beat.
VideoSecu Articulating Arm Mount MW380B5
Need a super long extension for your TV? The VideoSecu Articulating Arm Mount MW380B5 is the perfect choice. This mount allows you to pull your TV far away from the wall, making it ideal for mounting in recessed areas, corners, or even above a fireplace. The extra extension provides unparalleled flexibility in terms of positioning your screen.
Despite its impressive reach, the VideoSecu mount is surprisingly stable and secure. It can accommodate larger TVs with ease. It’s an investment, but if you need the unique positioning capabilities that a long extension arm offers, this mount is a game-changer. Just be sure to measure carefully to ensure it fits your space and TV size requirements.
Why You Need an Articulating TV Wall Mount
Imagine this: you’re finally settling in for movie night after a long day, only to realize the glare from the window is directly hitting the screen, ruining the picture. Or maybe you’re trying to cook dinner while catching up on your favorite show, but the TV is positioned perfectly for the living room couch, not the kitchen counter. This is where the magic of an articulating TV wall mount comes in. These aren’t your standard fixed mounts; they offer unparalleled flexibility, allowing you to swivel, tilt, and extend your TV to achieve the perfect viewing angle from almost anywhere in the room.
Think of the possibilities! You could effortlessly adjust the TV’s position for daytime viewing to avoid glare, then swivel it towards the dining table for family dinners. If you have an open-concept living space, an articulating mount lets you share the same TV between the living room and kitchen seamlessly. Plus, these mounts are incredibly space-saving, freeing up valuable floor space that bulky entertainment centers often consume.
The best articulating TV wall mounts aren’t just about convenience; they also prioritize safety. High-quality models are built with sturdy, durable materials and rigorously tested to ensure your precious TV stays securely mounted. This is especially important if you have children or pets running around. A well-constructed mount can give you peace of mind, knowing your TV is safely out of harm’s way.
Ultimately, an articulating TV wall mount is an investment in your viewing experience and your home’s functionality. It’s about creating a comfortable and adaptable entertainment space that fits your lifestyle. Forget straining your neck or dealing with annoying glares – with an articulating mount, you can finally enjoy your favorite shows and movies exactly the way you want, wherever you are in the room.
Choosing the Right Size Articulating TV Wall Mount
Okay, so you’re ready to ditch that bulky TV stand and embrace the freedom of an articulating mount. Awesome! But before you click “add to cart,” let’s talk size. Think of it like finding the perfect pair of jeans – too small, and you’re uncomfortable; too big, and you’re swimming in fabric. Same goes for TV mounts! You need to ensure the mount can handle the weight and VESA (Video Electronics Standards Association) pattern of your specific TV.
The VESA pattern is basically the spacing of the screw holes on the back of your TV. It’s usually measured in millimeters, so you might see something like “VESA 200×200” or “VESA 400×400.” Don’t worry, you don’t have to break out the ruler! This information is usually readily available in your TV’s user manual or on the manufacturer’s website. Finding this out BEFORE buying the mount will save you a huge headache and potential return shipping fees.
Weight capacity is another crucial factor. Exceeding the mount’s weight limit is a recipe for disaster. Imagine hanging a 60-pound TV on a mount rated for only 40 pounds. It’s a scary thought, right? Always err on the side of caution and choose a mount with a weight capacity that exceeds your TV’s weight by a reasonable margin. This provides a safety buffer and ensures the mount can handle the TV’s movements without straining.
Consider the future too! Maybe you’re planning to upgrade to a bigger and better TV down the road. If that’s the case, it might be wise to choose a mount that can handle a slightly larger TV size and weight than your current one. This foresight will prevent you from having to buy a new mount when you finally make that upgrade. It’s all about planning ahead and getting the most bang for your buck!
Installation Tips and Tricks
So, you’ve got your shiny new articulating TV mount, and you’re itching to get it up on the wall. Great! But before you start drilling holes, let’s go over some essential installation tips to ensure a smooth and safe process. Think of it like building IKEA furniture – following the instructions is key to avoiding a wobbly, unstable result. In this case, a wobbly result could be your expensive TV crashing to the floor!
First things first: stud finding! You absolutely must attach your mount to wall studs for maximum stability. Don’t even think about skipping this step and relying solely on drywall anchors, especially with a heavier articulating mount. A stud finder is your best friend here. These handy gadgets use sensors to detect the edges of studs behind your drywall. Make sure to mark the stud locations clearly before you start drilling.
Next, grab a level! Nobody wants a crooked TV, right? After attaching the mounting plate to the wall, use a level to ensure it’s perfectly straight. This is especially important for articulating mounts, as any slight angle will be magnified when you extend the TV. A digital level can be even more precise, but a traditional bubble level will work just fine. Take your time with this step; it’s worth the extra effort.
Cable management is another crucial, often overlooked aspect of TV mounting. Nobody wants a tangled mess of wires hanging down the wall! Invest in some cable ties, cable sleeves, or even a dedicated cable management system to keep things neat and tidy. Routing the cables through the mount’s built-in channels (if it has them) is also a great way to conceal them. A clean and organized setup will not only look better but also prevent accidental cable snags.
Understanding Articulation Range and Swivel
Okay, so you know the benefits of an articulating mount, but let’s dive a little deeper into the articulation itself. Understanding the range of motion – how far the mount extends, swivels, and tilts – is crucial for maximizing your viewing experience. Think of it like choosing the right pair of binoculars for birdwatching. You need the right zoom and focus to get the perfect view, and with an articulating mount, you need the right range of motion.
Extension is all about how far the mount can pull away from the wall. A longer extension means you can position your TV further into the room, providing more flexibility in viewing angles. This is especially useful if you have a large room or need to position the TV in a corner. Imagine having your TV tucked neatly against the wall when not in use and then extending it out for movie night – the possibilities are endless!
Swivel refers to the horizontal rotation of the TV. A wider swivel range allows you to easily adjust the viewing angle to different seating positions in the room. Picture this: you’re cooking in the kitchen but still want to catch the news. With a good swivel, you can simply rotate the TV towards the kitchen without having to move your entire couch! The more swivel, the more flexibility you have.
Tilt, on the other hand, refers to the vertical angle adjustment. Tilting your TV downwards can be particularly helpful if it’s mounted high on the wall, as it ensures the screen is facing directly towards your eyes. Imagine mounting your TV above a fireplace. Without tilt, you’d be craning your neck upwards the whole time! A slight downward tilt can make a huge difference in viewing comfort, especially during long movie marathons.
Safety Considerations and Best Practices
Mounting your TV on an articulating arm can really enhance your viewing experience, but it’s essential to prioritize safety above all else. We’re talking about a heavy piece of equipment suspended in the air, so taking the necessary precautions is non-negotiable. Think of it like driving a car – you need to follow the rules of the road to prevent accidents, and with TV mounting, you need to follow safety guidelines to prevent a potentially disastrous situation.
First and foremost, double-check that the mount is securely attached to the wall studs. We mentioned this earlier, but it’s worth repeating! Use a stud finder to accurately locate the studs, and use lag bolts that are long and strong enough to penetrate deep into the wood. Give the mount a good wiggle test after installation to make sure it’s rock solid. If you’re even slightly unsure, it’s always best to consult a professional installer.
Keep an eye on the articulation mechanism over time. Regularly check the hinges, joints, and screws to ensure they’re still tight and in good working order. Just like any piece of machinery, articulating mounts can wear down over time. A little preventative maintenance can go a long way in preventing potential problems. A quick visual inspection every few months should suffice.
Think about cable management. Dangling cables not only look messy, but they can also be a tripping hazard, especially if you have children or pets. Secure the cables properly using cable ties or covers to keep them out of harm’s way. Consider using a surge protector to protect your TV from power surges. It’s a small investment that can save you from costly repairs down the line.
Finally, be mindful of the TV’s position when extended. Make sure it’s not obstructing walkways or bumping into furniture. You don’t want to accidentally knock the TV off the wall while moving around the room! Teach children and pets to be aware of the extended TV and to avoid playing near it. Simple awareness can prevent accidents and ensure everyone’s safety.
Here’s your guide to choosing the perfect articulating TV wall mount!
Choosing the Best Articulating TV Wall Mount: A Buyer’s Guide
So, you’re thinking about getting an articulating TV wall mount? Excellent choice! It’s a fantastic way to maximize your viewing experience and free up some space. But with so many options out there, picking the right one can feel a little overwhelming. Don’t worry, I’m here to walk you through the key things you should consider. Think of me as your friendly guide, helping you find the absolute best articulating TV wall mounts for your needs. Let’s dive in!
1. TV Size and Weight Capacity: Are You a Match?
First and foremost, you need to make sure the mount can actually handle your TV. I know, it sounds obvious, but it’s a super common mistake. Check your TV’s specifications – the size (diagonal measurement in inches) and weight (in pounds) – are crucial. The mount’s product description will clearly state its compatible TV sizes and maximum weight capacity. Don’t even think about exceeding those limits! You’re risking damage to your TV, your wall, and possibly yourself. Always err on the side of caution and choose a mount that has a higher weight capacity than your TV’s actual weight.
Think of it like this: would you ask a small compact car to tow a huge trailer? Probably not! The same principle applies here. If your TV weighs 50 pounds, a mount rated for 55 pounds might seem sufficient, but a mount rated for 75 pounds provides a much safer buffer. And remember, weight capacity isn’t just a suggestion – it’s a safety regulation. Ignoring it could void any warranty on the mount or, worse, lead to a disastrous and expensive accident. When considering the best articulating TV wall mounts, starting with compatibility ensures a secure and long-lasting setup.
2. VESA Compatibility: Decoding the Mount’s Language
VESA, or Video Electronics Standards Association, is a standard that defines the hole pattern on the back of your TV for mounting purposes. It’s usually expressed as two numbers, like 200x200mm or 400x300mm, representing the horizontal and vertical distances between the mounting holes. Your TV’s manual or the manufacturer’s website will tell you its VESA pattern. Make sure the mount you’re considering supports that VESA pattern!
If the mount doesn’t match your TV’s VESA pattern, you’re simply out of luck. You can’t force it, and you shouldn’t try! Some mounts are “universal” and support a range of VESA patterns, while others are more specific. Pay close attention to the specifications. If your TV has a non-standard VESA pattern, you might need a VESA adapter plate. These plates attach to your TV and provide a standard VESA pattern that’s compatible with a wider range of mounts. Choosing the best articulating TV wall mounts requires this crucial compatibility check.
3. Range of Motion: How Flexible Do You Need To Be?
This is where articulating mounts really shine! Consider how much flexibility you need. Do you just want to tilt the TV slightly to reduce glare? Or do you need to swivel it from one side of the room to the other? Different mounts offer different ranges of motion. Some only tilt up and down, while others can swivel left and right, extend outward from the wall, and even rotate for portrait viewing.
Think about your viewing habits and the layout of your room. If you have multiple seating areas or need to view the TV from the kitchen while cooking, a mount with a wide swivel range is essential. If you just need to adjust the tilt to eliminate reflections, a simpler tilt-only mount might suffice. Also, consider how far you want the TV to extend from the wall. A longer extension provides more flexibility but might also require a sturdier mount. The ability to adjust the viewing angle easily is a key reason many people choose articulating mounts, so make sure you pick one that offers the range of motion you actually need to fully enjoy the best articulating TV wall mounts.
4. Build Quality and Materials: Longevity Matters
This is one area where it really pays to invest a little more. A flimsy mount can be a disaster waiting to happen, potentially damaging your TV and even causing injury. Look for mounts made from high-quality materials like heavy-gauge steel. Check the reviews to see what other users say about the mount’s build quality and sturdiness.
Pay attention to the thickness of the steel, the quality of the welds, and the smoothness of the articulation joints. A well-built mount will feel solid and secure, with smooth and effortless movement. Avoid mounts that feel lightweight or flimsy. Also, consider the finish of the mount. A powder-coated finish is more durable and resistant to scratches than a painted finish. Remember, you’re entrusting a valuable piece of equipment to this mount, so don’t skimp on quality. This is especially important when considering which of the best articulating TV wall mounts to purchase, as it protects your investment.
5. Ease of Installation: Can You DIY or Do You Need Help?
Some mounts are relatively easy to install, while others require more technical expertise. Consider your DIY skills and comfort level. If you’re not comfortable working with power tools or don’t have experience mounting things to walls, it’s best to hire a professional installer.
Look for mounts that come with clear, easy-to-follow instructions. Some mounts even include helpful templates that make it easier to mark the hole locations on the wall. Make sure the mount comes with all the necessary hardware, including screws, washers, and wall anchors. If you’re mounting to drywall, you’ll need to use wall anchors to ensure the mount is securely attached to the wall studs. If you’re mounting to concrete or brick, you’ll need different types of anchors. Don’t underestimate the importance of proper installation! A poorly installed mount can be dangerous and could damage your TV or wall. Properly installed best articulating TV wall mounts provide years of safe enjoyment.
6. Cable Management: Hiding the Mess
Let’s face it: TVs have a lot of cables! Power cords, HDMI cables, audio cables – it can quickly become a tangled mess. Look for mounts that have built-in cable management features, such as cable channels or clips, to help you keep your cables organized and out of sight.
Good cable management not only looks neater but also helps prevent cables from getting pinched or damaged when you move the TV. Some mounts even have hollow arms that allow you to run the cables inside the arm itself, completely concealing them from view. This can make a huge difference in the overall aesthetic of your setup. Even if a mount doesn’t have built-in cable management, you can always use zip ties or cable sleeves to organize the cables yourself. Keeping the cables tidy contributes to a clean and professional look, enhancing the overall enjoyment of your best articulating TV wall mounts.
7. Price and Warranty: Balancing Value and Protection
Articulating TV wall mounts range in price from relatively inexpensive to quite expensive. The price often reflects the build quality, materials, range of motion, and features of the mount. Set a budget for yourself, but don’t necessarily choose the cheapest option. It’s often worth spending a little more to get a higher-quality mount that will last longer and provide better performance.
Also, check the warranty offered by the manufacturer. A longer warranty is a good indication that the manufacturer has confidence in the quality of their product. A good warranty will protect you against defects in materials and workmanship. Read the warranty terms carefully to understand what is covered and what is not. Remember, investing in a good mount is an investment in the safety and longevity of your TV. Balancing price with the features and warranty ensures you get great value from the best articulating TV wall mounts.
FAQ
What size TV is compatible with an articulating TV wall mount?
Articulating TV wall mounts are designed to be quite versatile, and they come in a variety of sizes to accommodate different screen sizes. The compatibility usually depends on two key factors: the weight capacity of the mount and the VESA compatibility. VESA refers to the standard mounting hole pattern on the back of your TV.
To find the right mount, check the product specifications of the mount itself. It will clearly state the maximum screen size (in inches) and the maximum weight it can support. Then, check your TV’s specifications – you can usually find this information in the user manual or on the manufacturer’s website – to ensure its weight and VESA pattern are within the mount’s limits. Don’t exceed either of these limits! It’s better to err on the side of caution and choose a mount that can handle a slightly larger TV than you currently have, just in case you upgrade in the future.
How do I install an articulating TV wall mount?
Installing an articulating TV wall mount might seem intimidating, but it’s totally manageable with a little preparation and patience. First, gather your tools: you’ll need a drill, level, stud finder, screwdriver, and measuring tape. Read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully – they’re your best friend during this process! Find your wall studs using a stud finder, as you’ll want to attach the mount to them for maximum stability.
Once you’ve located the studs, position the wall plate of the mount and mark the drill holes. Drill pilot holes and then securely attach the wall plate to the studs. Next, attach the TV brackets to the back of your TV using the correct screws (usually included). Finally, carefully lift the TV and connect it to the wall plate. Double-check that everything is level and secure before letting go. If you’re unsure about any step, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional installer to avoid damaging your TV or wall.
What is VESA compatibility and why is it important?
VESA, which stands for Video Electronics Standards Association, is essentially the standard for the hole pattern on the back of TVs and monitors used for mounting. This standardization makes it super easy to find a compatible wall mount. It’s all about ensuring a perfect fit between your TV and the mount you choose.
Why is VESA compatibility so important? Well, imagine trying to hang a picture without knowing where the hook should go – it would be a messy guessing game! VESA compatibility eliminates that guesswork. When choosing a mount, check the VESA specifications of both the mount and your TV. The specs will be expressed in millimeters, for example, 200x200mm or 400x400mm. Make sure they match up! If they don’t, your TV won’t properly attach to the mount, and you’ll need a VESA adapter, which adds an extra layer of complexity (and sometimes cost).
Can I install an articulating TV wall mount on drywall?
While it might be tempting to mount your TV directly onto drywall, it’s generally not recommended, especially with an articulating mount. Articulating mounts allow you to extend, tilt, and swivel your TV, which puts extra stress on the wall. Drywall alone simply isn’t strong enough to handle the weight of the TV and the extra force from movement.
However, there are a couple of exceptions. If you’re using a very small and lightweight TV, and you can’t find the studs, you might be able to use heavy-duty drywall anchors specifically designed for TV mounting. These anchors are much stronger than typical drywall screws. Still, be very cautious and make sure the anchors are rated for significantly more than the weight of your TV. The safest and most reliable option is always to attach the mount to wall studs.
How much weight can an articulating TV wall mount hold?
The weight capacity of an articulating TV wall mount varies depending on the specific model and its design. It’s absolutely crucial to know the weight of your TV (check the manufacturer’s specifications) before you purchase a mount. Exceeding the weight limit is a recipe for disaster, potentially leading to the mount failing and your TV crashing down!
Most articulating mounts will clearly state their maximum weight capacity in their product description or specifications. This will be listed in pounds (lbs) or kilograms (kg). Make sure the weight capacity of the mount is significantly higher than the weight of your TV. It’s always better to have a safety margin to account for any potential additional stress from extending or swiveling the TV.
How much does an articulating TV wall mount cost?
The price of an articulating TV wall mount can vary quite a bit depending on a few key factors, including the size and weight capacity of the mount, the brand, the features it offers, and where you’re purchasing it from. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay anywhere from around $30 to $300 or more.
Entry-level articulating mounts suitable for smaller TVs with limited features will usually be on the lower end of the price range. As you move up in size, weight capacity, and features (like extended reach, smooth tilting, and integrated cable management), the price will naturally increase. Premium brands known for their quality and durability may also command a higher price. Online retailers, big box stores, and specialty electronics stores often have different pricing, so it’s a good idea to shop around and compare prices before making a decision. Don’t always go for the cheapest option, sometimes it’s worth paying a little extra for better quality and safety!
What are the benefits of an articulating TV wall mount?
The biggest benefit of an articulating TV wall mount is its incredible flexibility. Unlike a fixed or tilting mount, an articulating mount allows you to extend, swivel, and tilt your TV in multiple directions. This gives you the freedom to adjust the viewing angle to suit your seating position and eliminate glare, no matter where you’re sitting in the room.
This flexibility is particularly useful in rooms with multiple viewing areas or where you need to adjust the TV’s position for different activities. Imagine being able to pull the TV closer for movie night or angle it away from the window during the day to reduce glare. Articulating mounts can also be great for corner installations, where you need to precisely position the TV for optimal viewing. Beyond the flexibility, they often improve the overall aesthetics of your living space, creating a clean and modern look.
Final Words
So there you have it! A comprehensive look at some of the best articulating TV wall mounts out there, ready to transform your viewing experience. We’ve armed you with the knowledge to confidently choose the perfect mount for your needs, whether it’s maximizing space, achieving the ideal viewing angle, or simply adding a touch of modern flair to your living room. Don’t let analysis paralysis hold you back!
Now’s the time to take the plunge and create the home entertainment setup you’ve always dreamed of. Picture yourself kicking back, effortlessly adjusting your screen for the perfect view, and enjoying a truly immersive experience. You’ve got this! Go find that best articulating TV wall mount and start building the entertainment space of your dreams today. You deserve it!