Remember that glorious day you brought home that brand new, sleek flat-screen TV? I bet the image quality blew you away, and you couldn’t wait to sink into the couch for movie night. But then reality hit: where were you going to put it? Maybe you’re tired of bulky entertainment centers eating up precious floor space, or perhaps you just want that clean, modern look. Whatever the reason, you’re likely considering mounting your TV on the wall. However, navigating the world of TV wall mounts can feel overwhelming, with endless options and confusing jargon. Finding the best flat TV wall mounts for your needs is the first step to making your dream home theater a reality!
That’s where we come in! This guide is designed to be your friendly companion in the quest for the perfect wall mount. We’ve spent hours researching, comparing, and even testing various models to bring you honest reviews and a comprehensive buying guide. Forget sifting through countless product descriptions and conflicting opinions; we’re here to simplify the process, ensuring you choose the safest, most reliable, and aesthetically pleasing mount for your specific TV and viewing preferences. Let’s dive in and transform your living space with the power of a perfectly mounted flat-screen!
We’ll review the best flat tv wall mounts shortly, but first, check out some relevant products on Amazon:
Say Goodbye to Clutter: Finding the Perfect Wall Mount for Your Flat Screen TV
Remember the days of bulky entertainment centers and struggling to find the sweet spot on the couch? Thankfully, those days are fading fast, largely thanks to the sleek and space-saving design of flat screen TVs. But slapping that beautiful new screen onto just any old mount simply won’t do. It’s about more than just getting it off the floor; it’s about optimizing your viewing experience and transforming your living space. Choosing from the variety of options can seem overwhelming, but don’t worry, we’re here to help you find the best flat tv wall mounts.
Think of your TV as a piece of art, and the wall mount as its frame. A good mount not only securely holds your prized possession but also allows you to position it perfectly for optimal viewing. According to a recent survey, over 70% of households with flat screen TVs have them mounted on walls. It’s no longer a luxury; it’s practically the standard! And with screen sizes continuing to grow, a sturdy and reliable mount is more crucial than ever.
But with so many options flooding the market, how do you know where to start? You’ve got tilt mounts, full-motion mounts, and of course, the focus of this article: flat mounts. Each serves a different purpose, and the “best” one for you will depend entirely on your specific needs and preferences. Considerations like your TV’s size and weight, the wall material, and desired viewing angle all play a crucial role in making the right decision.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the world of flat TV wall mounts, exploring their benefits, limitations, and the key features to consider before making a purchase. We’ll help you cut through the jargon and provide you with the knowledge you need to choose the best flat tv wall mounts that will not only keep your TV securely in place but also enhance your overall viewing pleasure. So, let’s get started and transform your living room into the home theater of your dreams!
5 Best Flat Tv Wall Mounts
Sanus Advanced Tilt TV Wall Mount
Looking for a wall mount that offers a fantastic tilt range without sacrificing a sleek profile? The Sanus Advanced Tilt is definitely one to consider. This mount boasts a smooth tilting mechanism, letting you find the perfect viewing angle even in rooms with tricky lighting. Installation is surprisingly straightforward thanks to its pre-drilled holes and helpful online resources. It also features a safety latch that secures your TV, providing added peace of mind.
The Sanus Advanced Tilt is more than just functional; it’s also designed with aesthetics in mind. Its low-profile design ensures your TV sits close to the wall, creating a clean and modern look. The mount’s solid construction guarantees durability, and it’s compatible with a wide range of TV sizes. If you’re after a reliable and user-friendly tilting mount, this Sanus option is a strong contender.
Mount-It! Full Motion TV Wall Mount
Want to bring flexibility to your viewing experience? The Mount-It! Full Motion TV Wall Mount offers exceptional articulation, allowing you to swivel, extend, and tilt your TV with ease. This makes it perfect for multi-purpose rooms where you might be watching from different positions. Installation is relatively simple, and the included hardware covers a variety of TV sizes and wall types. The robust design gives a secure and stable hold for your precious screen.
Beyond its practicality, this Mount-It! mount really shines in its ability to optimize viewing angles. Whether you’re combating glare or sharing your screen with others, the full motion capabilities offer unrivaled adaptability. It can even tuck neatly against the wall when not in use, maintaining a streamlined appearance. If you value versatility and customizable viewing, this full-motion mount is an excellent choice.
Echogear Low Profile Fixed TV Wall Mount
For those seeking a minimalist setup, the Echogear Low Profile Fixed TV Wall Mount delivers. It’s incredibly simple to install and keeps your TV incredibly close to the wall, creating a super-flush and clean aesthetic. This fixed position mount is ideal if you’re not concerned about tilting or swiveling and simply want your TV securely mounted in one spot. The built-in level ensures perfect alignment, and the universal design accommodates a wide range of TV sizes.
This Echogear mount prioritizes simplicity and discretion. By minimizing the gap between your TV and the wall, it maximizes visual impact. Although it lacks the adjustability of other mounts, it offers an unmatched sleekness. If you’re after a no-fuss, streamlined look and a rock-solid installation, this fixed mount is hard to beat.
VideoSecu ML531BE TV Wall Mount
Searching for a reliable full-motion mount without breaking the bank? The VideoSecu ML531BE is a fantastic budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on functionality. It offers a wide range of motion, allowing you to swivel, tilt, and extend your TV to achieve the optimal viewing angle. The installation process is reasonably straightforward, and it comes with a good selection of hardware. The mount is surprisingly sturdy, providing a safe and secure hold for your TV.
While it may not have the premium features of higher-end models, the VideoSecu ML531BE provides excellent value for its price. The articulation is smooth and responsive, enabling you to adjust your TV with minimal effort. If you’re looking for a versatile and affordable full-motion mount, this VideoSecu model is a smart choice.
Perlegear Tilting TV Wall Mount
Looking for a simple and reliable tilting solution? The Perlegear Tilting TV Wall Mount delivers exactly that. It allows you to tilt your TV forward to reduce glare and improve viewing angles from lower positions. The installation process is straightforward with the included hardware and easy-to-follow instructions. This mount provides a secure and stable hold for your TV, giving you peace of mind.
The Perlegear mount is all about functionality and ease of use. The tilting mechanism is smooth, allowing you to adjust your TV effortlessly. While it doesn’t offer the full range of motion of more advanced mounts, it provides a significant improvement in viewing comfort, especially in rooms with problematic lighting. If you’re seeking a straightforward and affordable tilting solution, this Perlegear mount is a solid option.
Why Invest in a Flat TV Wall Mount?
Imagine this: you’ve just bought a sleek, new flat-screen TV. It’s beautiful, modern, and ready to be the centerpiece of your entertainment space. But where do you put it? Do you relegate it to a bulky, space-hogging entertainment center? Or, perhaps you’ve considered simply placing it on a stand, but worry about stability, especially if you have kids or pets darting around. That’s where a flat TV wall mount swoops in to save the day!
The beauty of a flat TV wall mount is its ability to transform your viewing experience and reclaim precious living space. Suddenly, that entertainment center isn’t a necessity anymore, opening up room for stylish shelving, comfortable seating, or even just a more spacious, airy feel. More than just aesthetics, consider safety. Wall mounting keeps your TV securely away from accidental bumps, tips, and curious hands, offering priceless peace of mind. Think about how a secure wall mount could prevent a disastrous TV topple, protecting both your investment and your loved ones.
But not all wall mounts are created equal! Investing in one of the “best flat TV wall mounts” available on the market will provide you with enhanced features like tilt, swivel, and extension. Want to angle your TV for optimal viewing from different parts of the room? No problem! Need to access cables and ports easily? A high-quality mount makes it a breeze. These features allow you to truly customize your viewing experience and create a setup that perfectly suits your needs and preferences.
Ultimately, choosing a flat TV wall mount is about more than just hanging your TV on the wall. It’s about maximizing space, enhancing safety, improving your viewing experience, and adding a touch of modern elegance to your home. Consider it an investment in your comfort, style, and peace of mind – you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Understanding VESA Compatibility for Your TV
So, you’re ready to hang your TV, which is awesome! But before you even think about which mount looks the coolest, you absolutely need to understand VESA. Think of VESA as the universal language your TV speaks when talking to wall mounts. It’s basically the standardized hole pattern on the back of your TV. Matching your TV’s VESA pattern to the mount is critical – like trying to fit a square peg in a round hole if you don’t.
Finding your TV’s VESA size is usually pretty easy. Check the user manual – it’s almost always listed there. If you’re like most of us and tossed the manual long ago, a quick Google search of your TV’s model number followed by “VESA pattern” should do the trick. Or, you can grab a measuring tape and measure the distance between the screw holes on the back of your TV, both horizontally and vertically in millimeters.
Why is VESA so important? Because using a mount that isn’t compatible can lead to a wobbly, unstable TV situation. Nobody wants their expensive TV crashing to the floor, right? Plus, incorrectly installed mounts can void your TV’s warranty, which is definitely something to avoid.
Imagine you’ve finally gotten everything set up, only to realize your TV is hanging precariously. You’re left scrambling to find a different mount, patching up holes in your wall, and feeling incredibly frustrated. Save yourself the headache and double-check that VESA compatibility!
Choosing the Right Mount Type for Your Needs
Flat TV wall mounts aren’t just about getting your TV off the floor; they’re about optimizing your viewing experience and maximizing space. But, like shoes, one size doesn’t fit all. There are fixed, tilting, and full-motion mounts, each designed for different scenarios.
A fixed mount is your straightforward, no-frills option. It keeps your TV super close to the wall, like a piece of art. This is great if you have a dedicated viewing area and don’t need to adjust the angle. Think of a home theater setup where the couch is perfectly aligned with the screen.
Tilting mounts allow you to angle your TV up or down slightly. This is perfect if you’re mounting your TV higher than eye level, like in a bedroom or over a fireplace. The tilt helps to reduce glare and provides a more comfortable viewing angle. Imagine lying in bed and being able to angle the TV down for optimal viewing – pure bliss!
Full-motion mounts are the most versatile, allowing you to swivel, tilt, and extend your TV away from the wall. This is ideal for open-concept living spaces where you might be watching from different angles. Think of a kitchen where you can pull the TV out and angle it towards the cooking area, then push it back flat when you’re entertaining guests in the living room.
Installation Tips and Tricks for a Secure Mount
Okay, you’ve got your mount, you know your VESA, now it’s time for the fun part: installation! But hold on, before you start drilling, let’s talk about a few crucial tips to ensure your TV stays safely on the wall. This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about preventing a potential disaster.
First and foremost, find your studs! These are the vertical wooden beams inside your wall that provide the necessary support for your TV. You absolutely need to anchor your mount into the studs. A stud finder is your best friend here. Don’t rely on just knocking on the wall and guessing – invest in a good stud finder.
Once you’ve located the studs, use a level to ensure your mount is perfectly straight. No one wants a crooked TV! A slightly off-kilter mount can throw off the entire viewing experience. Use a pencil to mark the drilling locations on the wall, making sure they align with the stud locations.
When drilling, use the correct drill bit size for the screws provided with your mount. Don’t overtighten the screws – you could strip the wood or damage the mount. A firm, snug fit is all you need. And remember, safety first! Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from dust and debris.
Imagine spending hours mounting your TV, only to realize it’s slightly crooked or, worse, insecure. Taking the time to properly locate the studs, level the mount, and use the correct tools will ensure a secure and aesthetically pleasing installation.
Cable Management Solutions for a Clean Look
So, you’ve successfully mounted your TV – congratulations! But now you’re faced with a tangled mess of cables dangling down the wall. Yikes! Don’t let those unsightly cords ruin your hard work. Cable management is the final piece of the puzzle for a clean and professional-looking installation.
One of the easiest solutions is to use cable ties or velcro straps to bundle the cables together. This helps to keep them organized and prevents them from spreading out like spaghetti. You can also use cable sleeves, which are flexible tubes that encase all the cables in one neat bundle.
For a more concealed look, consider using cable concealer kits. These are plastic channels that attach to the wall and hide the cables inside. They come in various colors and can be painted to match your wall, making them virtually invisible. Imagine your friend’s amazement when they can’t see any cables at all!
If you’re mounting your TV during new construction or renovation, you might even consider running the cables inside the wall. This requires more planning and potentially professional help, but it results in the cleanest possible look. Think of a sleek, modern living room with no visible cables – the ultimate in minimalist design.
Don’t underestimate the impact of cable management. It’s the finishing touch that elevates your TV wall mount from a functional necessity to a stylish addition to your home. A clean, organized cable setup not only looks better but also prevents accidental unplugging and makes it easier to clean around the TV.
Your Guide to Finding the Best Flat TV Wall Mounts
Hey there! So, you’re looking to mount your flat screen TV? Awesome! It’s a great way to save space, improve your viewing angle, and give your room a sleek, modern look. But with so many options out there, finding the best flat tv wall mounts can feel a bit overwhelming. Don’t worry, I’m here to help you navigate the world of wall mounts and make sure you choose the perfect one for your needs. This guide will walk you through the essential factors to consider, ensuring you get a mount that’s safe, secure, and just right for your TV. Let’s get started!
1. TV Weight and Size Capacity: Know Your Limits!
This is arguably the most crucial factor. Think of it like this: you wouldn’t ask a small child to carry a grown adult, right? The same principle applies to TV mounts. Each mount has a maximum weight and screen size it can safely handle. Exceeding these limits can lead to disastrous consequences – your TV could come crashing down, causing damage to your TV, your wall, and potentially even someone nearby. Before you even start browsing, check your TV’s specifications for its weight (usually found in the manual or on a sticker on the back) and its screen size.
Consider a scenario: You’ve got a shiny new 65-inch OLED TV. It’s beautiful and you can’t wait to mount it. You spot a super cheap mount online that looks “good enough.” But the weight capacity is only 50 lbs, and your TV weighs 60 lbs. Tempting as it may be to save a few bucks, don’t do it! The mount will be stressed beyond its limits, and it’s only a matter of time before it fails. Always choose a mount that exceeds your TV’s weight and size requirements. It’s better to be safe than sorry!
2. VESA Compatibility: Matching Mount to TV
VESA (Video Electronics Standards Association) is a standard that defines the mounting hole pattern on the back of most flat screen TVs. Think of it as the universal language between your TV and the wall mount. Without compatibility, your TV simply won’t attach to the mount. The VESA pattern is usually expressed in millimeters (e.g., 200×200, 400×400, 600×400). You can find this information in your TV’s manual, on the manufacturer’s website, or by measuring the distance between the mounting holes yourself.
Imagine buying a mount that looks perfect, has all the features you want, and is within your budget, only to discover that the VESA pattern doesn’t match your TV. Frustrating, right? You’d have to go through the hassle of returning it and starting your search all over again. Some mounts are “universal” and come with adapters to accommodate different VESA patterns, but it’s still best to check the specifications carefully. It’s like trying to fit a square peg in a round hole – it’s just not going to work. So, double-check that VESA compatibility!
3. Mount Type: Fixed, Tilting, or Full-Motion?
This is where personal preference and viewing habits come into play. The type of mount you choose will significantly impact your viewing experience. Fixed mounts are the simplest and most affordable option. They hold your TV flush against the wall, offering a clean, minimalist look. Tilting mounts allow you to tilt the TV up or down slightly, which can be helpful for reducing glare or improving the viewing angle from different heights. Full-motion mounts, also known as articulating mounts, offer the most flexibility. They allow you to swivel, tilt, and extend your TV, providing the optimal viewing angle from anywhere in the room.
Picture this: you frequently move around the room while watching TV – sometimes you’re on the couch, sometimes you’re cooking in the kitchen, and sometimes you’re even doing yoga on the floor! A fixed mount would leave you stuck with a single viewing angle. A tilting mount might offer some improvement, but a full-motion mount would allow you to adjust the TV’s position to perfectly suit your activity. On the other hand, if you always watch TV from the same spot on the couch and prioritize a clean, minimalist look, a fixed mount might be the best choice. Think about how you use your TV and choose a mount that fits your lifestyle. The best flat tv wall mounts will be the one that accommodates your lifestyle.
4. Wall Type: Studs, Concrete, or Drywall?
The type of wall you’re mounting your TV on will determine the type of hardware and mounting techniques you’ll need. Most standard wall mounts are designed to be installed on wooden studs. These are the vertical supports within your walls that provide the necessary strength and stability to hold the weight of the TV. Using a stud finder is critical. Mounting on drywall alone is generally not recommended, as drywall is not strong enough to support the weight of a TV for an extended time. If you have concrete or brick walls, you’ll need a special mount and hardware designed for masonry.
Imagine you’re eager to get your TV mounted, but you only have drywall. You decide to just screw the mount directly into the drywall without finding the studs. Big mistake! The drywall will crumble under the weight of the TV, and the whole thing will come crashing down. It’s like building a house on a foundation of sand – it’s just not stable. If you don’t have studs in the desired location, you may need to use a drywall anchor specifically designed for heavy loads or consider hiring a professional installer. Always ensure you’re using the correct hardware and mounting techniques for your wall type to ensure a safe and secure installation.
5. Cable Management: Hide Those Wires!
Let’s face it: dangling cables are an eyesore. They can ruin the clean, modern look you’re trying to achieve with a wall-mounted TV. Fortunately, many wall mounts come with built-in cable management features, such as cable channels, clips, or straps. These features allow you to neatly organize and conceal your cables, creating a cleaner and more professional-looking installation.
Think of your wall-mounted TV as a piece of art. Would you hang a beautiful painting and then leave a tangled mess of wires hanging below it? Of course not! The same principle applies to your TV. Messy cables detract from the overall aesthetic and can even be a safety hazard. Some mounts even offer in-wall cable management solutions, allowing you to run the cables through the wall for a completely clean look. Even if your mount doesn’t have built-in cable management, you can still use cable ties, sleeves, or channels to tidy up your wires. Hiding those wires is essential for a polished and professional finish, making any of the best flat tv wall mounts look even better.
6. Installation Difficulty: DIY or Hire a Pro?
Consider your comfort level with DIY projects. Mounting a TV can range from a simple task to a more complex undertaking, depending on the type of mount, the wall type, and your experience with tools and home improvement projects. Fixed mounts are generally the easiest to install, while full-motion mounts can be more challenging due to their more complex mechanisms. If you’re not comfortable working with tools, drilling into walls, or dealing with electrical wiring, it’s best to hire a professional installer.
Envision this scenario: You’re determined to save money by installing the TV mount yourself. You start drilling into the wall, but you accidentally hit a water pipe! Now you have a bigger problem on your hands. While it’s often easy, installing a TV mount might require drilling, leveling, and connecting wires. If you’re unsure about any of these steps, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and hire a professional. They have the experience and expertise to ensure a safe and secure installation, and they can also help you with cable management and other finishing touches. The peace of mind knowing it’s done right is worth the investment.
7. Budget: Finding the Right Balance
Wall mounts range in price from relatively inexpensive to quite costly, depending on the type, features, and brand. It’s important to set a budget before you start shopping and stick to it as much as possible. However, don’t skimp on quality to save a few bucks. A flimsy or poorly made mount could put your expensive TV at risk.
Imagine you’re trying to save money and opt for the cheapest mount you can find. It seems like a great deal at first, but after a few months, the mount starts to sag, and the TV is no longer level. Now you have to replace the mount and potentially repair any damage to your wall. In the long run, it would have been more cost-effective to invest in a higher-quality mount from the start. Aim for a balance between price and quality, and read reviews to see what other customers have to say about the mount’s durability and performance. Remember, the best flat tv wall mounts don’t always have to be the most expensive ones.
By considering these seven key factors, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect wall mount for your TV and enjoying a safer, more aesthetically pleasing viewing experience. Happy mounting!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right size TV mount for my TV?
Choosing the right size mount is all about checking two key things: the size of your TV (measured diagonally in inches) and its weight. Most mounts will clearly state the TV sizes they’re compatible with, so that’s a great starting point. However, don’t rely on size alone!
More importantly, you’ll need to check your TV’s weight and make sure it’s less than the maximum weight capacity listed on the mount. It’s always better to err on the side of caution and choose a mount that can handle a bit more weight than your TV actually weighs. This ensures a secure and safe installation.
What’s the difference between a fixed, tilting, and full-motion TV mount?
Okay, let’s break down the different types of mounts! A fixed mount is your simplest option. It holds your TV flush against the wall with no movement at all. It’s great if you have a dedicated viewing position and want a sleek, minimalist look.
A tilting mount allows you to tilt the TV screen up or down a bit, which can be helpful for reducing glare or improving the viewing angle if the TV is mounted higher up. And finally, a full-motion mount is the most versatile. It allows you to extend, swivel, and tilt your TV in multiple directions. This is perfect if you need to adjust the viewing angle frequently or want to access the back of the TV easily for cable management.
How do I know if my wall can support a TV mount?
This is a super important question for safety! You need to make sure the wall you’re planning to use is strong enough to hold the TV and the mount together. Ideally, you’ll want to mount your TV directly into wall studs – the vertical wooden supports behind your drywall.
Use a stud finder to locate the studs in your wall. If your wall is concrete or brick, you’ll need to use special anchors designed for masonry walls. These anchors are much stronger than regular drywall anchors. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, it’s always best to call in a professional installer!
What is VESA compatibility, and why is it important?
VESA compatibility basically refers to the standardized mounting hole pattern on the back of your TV. It’s a standard that helps ensure that different TV mounts will actually fit different TV models. Think of it like a universal language for mounting.
To find your TV’s VESA size, you’ll usually find it in your TV’s user manual or online specifications. The VESA size is usually expressed as two numbers, like 200x200mm. These numbers represent the distance between the mounting holes, both horizontally and vertically. Matching this VESA pattern with the mount is critical for a secure fit!
What tools will I need to install a TV wall mount?
Alright, let’s talk tools! You’ll definitely need a few essentials to get the job done right. A stud finder is crucial for locating the studs in your wall. You’ll also need a drill with the appropriate drill bits for your wall type (wood, drywall, or masonry).
A level is absolutely necessary to make sure your TV is mounted straight! A screwdriver (or a drill with screwdriver bits), a measuring tape, a pencil, and a socket wrench are also handy to have. Some mounts come with a level and necessary screws, so double-check the box contents first.
How high should I mount my TV?
The ideal height to mount your TV really depends on a few factors, including the size of your TV and the distance you’ll be sitting from it. A good rule of thumb is to position the center of the screen at eye level when you’re sitting comfortably.
For example, if you’re sitting about 8-10 feet away, the center of a 55-inch TV should be around 40-45 inches from the floor. A good way to find the sweet spot is to sit where you normally would and have someone hold the TV (or a large piece of cardboard the same size) against the wall. Play around with the height until it feels comfortable!
What if I have cable management concerns?
Cable management is a common concern, but don’t worry, there are lots of solutions! The easiest way to hide cables is to use cable management sleeves or covers that attach to the wall. These are inexpensive and come in a variety of colors to blend in with your décor.
If you want a cleaner look, consider running the cables inside the wall. This is a more involved process that might require cutting into the drywall, but it results in a super clean, wire-free appearance. Alternatively, many full-motion mounts come with built-in cable management channels. Just remember to plan out your cable routing before you secure everything!
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it! You’re now armed with the knowledge to choose the best flat TV wall mount for your specific needs and budget. We’ve explored everything from fixed mounts for that minimalist look to full-motion mounts for ultimate flexibility. Remember, the perfect mount is out there waiting for you, and with the right choice, you’ll not only enhance your viewing experience but also free up valuable floor space and create a sleek, modern entertainment hub.
Don’t hesitate to take the plunge and elevate your living room (literally!). With our reviews and buying guide in hand, you’re ready to confidently select a mount, grab your tools, and transform your space. Trust your instincts, consider your needs, and get ready to enjoy your TV like never before! Happy mounting!