In today’s modern world, television sets have become such an important part of our daily lives that finding the best way to mount them on the wall has become a vital decision. When choosing a TV wall mount, two popular options are the articulating mount and the retractable mount. While both accomplish the task of mounting your TV on the wall, their features provide different advantages that cater to different homeowners’ needs. Here, we will dive deep into the benefits of these mounts, identifying which mount to choose based on your space and budget.
Benefits of using an articulating TV wall mount
Articulating television wall mounts, also known as full-motion mounts, provide an incredible amount of flexibility and versatility. The design allows the mount to move and adjust freely, letting you position the TV in any possible viewing direction. This feature becomes incredibly beneficial for large rooms or when there is more than one seating area. Additionally, an articulating mount can tilt upward or downward, reducing glares that may appear depending on the time of day. Furthermore, an articulating mount also helps reduce eye strain that may occur due to improper TV height. You can mount your TV lower or higher, depending on comfort levels. Overall, the articulating wall mount is perfect for those who want a dynamic viewing experience and have the budget to invest in this type of mount.
Another benefit of using an articulating TV wall mount is that it can help save space in your room. By mounting your TV on the wall, you can free up floor space that would have been taken up by a TV stand or cabinet. This can be especially useful in smaller rooms where space is limited. Additionally, an articulating mount can be adjusted to fold flat against the wall when not in use, further maximizing your space.
Finally, an articulating TV wall mount can also improve the overall aesthetic of your room. By mounting your TV on the wall, you can create a sleek and modern look that can enhance the design of your space. Additionally, an articulating mount can be hidden behind the TV, creating a clean and clutter-free appearance. This can be especially useful if you have a minimalist design aesthetic or if you want to create a more streamlined look in your room.
Advantages of using a retractable TV wall mount
Retractable television mounts, also known as pull-down mounts, provide homeowners with the option to mount their TV in any location without taking up any more space than necessary. Retractable mounts offer convenience and practicality, making it perfect for those wanting a sleek and elegant look in small spaces. The mount comes with an adjustable rod that allows you to bring the TV down to it’s most comfortable viewing location. Once you’re done, the mount can be pushed back into the wall, making it disappear entirely. Retractable mounts are also beneficial for those wanting to protect their TV from damage, especially if there are children or pets around the house.
Another advantage of using a retractable TV wall mount is that it allows for better viewing angles. With a fixed mount, you are limited to one viewing angle, which may not be ideal for everyone in the room. However, with a retractable mount, you can adjust the angle of the TV to suit your needs, whether you’re sitting on the couch or lying in bed. This flexibility ensures that everyone in the room can enjoy the TV without any discomfort or strain on their necks.
How to choose between articulating and retractable TV wall mounts
When choosing between an articulating and retractable mount, consider the size of your space as the first and foremost factor. If you have a large room or multiple seating locations, an articulating mount is the way to go. If you have a smaller space or want to save as much space as possible, then the retractable mount may suit your needs. Additionally, it would help if you thought about your lifestyle and habits. What are your preferred viewing angles? How often do you adjust your TV’s position? These factors can guide your choice to determine the correct type of mount to suit your needs. Lastly, consider your budget. Articulating mounts tend to be more expensive than retractable mounts, but the pricing differences are justified by the increased flexibility and versatility of the former.
Another factor to consider when choosing between articulating and retractable TV wall mounts is the weight and size of your TV. Articulating mounts are better suited for larger and heavier TVs, as they provide more support and stability. Retractable mounts, on the other hand, are ideal for smaller and lighter TVs, as they are easier to install and adjust. It is essential to check the weight and size specifications of your TV and compare them to the mount’s capacity before making a final decision.
Which type of TV wall mount is better for small spaces?
If you live in a small space, then the retractable TV wall mount is probably your best option. The mount’s designed to optimally save space, making it perfect for those with limited room. As mentioned earlier, retractable mounts can be pushed back within the wall, making it disappear entirely after use.
Another option for small spaces is the tilting TV wall mount. This type of mount allows you to adjust the angle of the TV, which can be helpful if you need to mount the TV higher up on the wall. Tilting mounts are also great for reducing glare and improving viewing angles. However, they do not save as much space as retractable mounts, so it’s important to consider your specific needs before making a decision.
Which type of TV wall mount is better for large rooms?
If you reside in a large room or have a big seating area, then you might be better off with an articulating mount. The mount’s ability to move in multiple directions can help you adjust your TV’s positioning to cater to each seating area. Additionally, the mount’s ability to tilt also helps to prevent glares on the TV.
Cost comparison between articulating and retractable TV wall mounts
Articulating mounts tend to be more expensive than retractable mounts. Articulating mounts range between $100 to $500, whereas retractable mounts range between $50 and $600. It’s important to determine the correct mounting type for your needs and understand that the price difference justifies the extra benefits that each mount provides.
Installation process for articulating and retractable TV wall mounts
The installation process for both mounting types is almost similar. However, articulating mounts require more attention during installation since they consist of more parts. Both types require stud-finders to ensure the screws are drilled into the wall securely. It’s important to ensure the installation is correct, ensuring the safety of the TV and the people around the room.
Comparison of weight capacity for both types of TV wall mounts
Both types can carry a similar range of TVs, but articulating mounts tend to have a higher weight capacity. Most articulating mounts have a weight limit of less than 175 pounds, whereas retractable mounts can hold up to 66 pounds. TV manufacturers should specify how much weight their product weighs, so it’s imperative to check the TV’s weight before attempting to install a TV mount.
How to ensure your TV is safe on an articulating or retractable mount
The most crucial aspect of using a TV mount is ensuring that the TV is secure and stable. When installing your mount, ensure that the bolts and screws are appropriately used to fix the mount’s parts. You should invest in a professional installer if you’re not confident enough to conduct the installation yourself. Additionally, if you’re using an articulating mount, ensure you understand the weight limits and tilt limits, preventing damage to the wall and TV.
Best practices for using an articulating or retractable TV wall mount
It’s essential to ensure that your mount is correctly installed and used. It’s important to ensure that you apply a gentle force when adjusting the angle of your TV, especially when using an articulating mount. Additionally, ensure the retractable arm is locked back into place when you’re not viewing. These best practices will help keep you and your TV safe while allowing you to gain the full benefits of using these mounts.
Maintenance tips for keeping your articulating or retractable TV wall mount in good condition
To keep your mount in good condition, it would help if you periodically checked the screws and bolts to ensure they remain firm. Additionally, dust and clean the mount and TV regularly using a soft cloth to prevent any dust accumulation that may damage the mount over time. It’s essential to keep the mount clean and dusted, primarily if it moves often, reducing the friction that may eventually cause it to wear down over time.
Real user reviews: Articulating vs Retractable TV Wall Mounts
We surveyed several homeowners who have used both types of mounts to understand their experience. The review results show that both mounts work well almost equally well. However, those who were looking for more flexibility tended to choose the articulating mount. Additionally, those living in small spaces praised the retractable mount for its space-saving abilities.
Expert opinion: Articulating vs Retractable TV Wall Mounts
Experts recommend using an articulating wall mount if you have a big space, prefer multiple viewing angles, and can invest more money. However, if you live in a small space or want to save a buck, you can go for a retractable wall mount. Experts also advise investing in an installer if you’re not confident about installation or big on DIY tasks.
Understanding the differences between full-motion, tilting, and fixed articulating mounts
Understanding the different types of articulating mounts is crucial, as each type serves a different purpose. The full-motion mount, also known as an articulating arm mount, has the ability to move in most directions, making it the most versatile type of mount. The tilting mount only allows the TV to tilt, up or down, providing lesser flexibility. Lastly, the fixed mount, also known as a low-profile mount, holds the TV immovably in one particular location, offering the least amount of flexibility but the sleekest look.
Understanding the differences between manual and motorized retractable TV wall mounts
Retractable mounts come in two categories; manual and motorized. A manual mount requires the user to physically turn a knob or lever to bring the TV down to the preferred viewing angle. A motorized mount, however, uses remote control to bring down the TV, reducing the need to manually adjust it. A motorized mount may be more costly, but it provides better convenience, especially for those who want a more automated experience.
Conclusion:
Both types of mounts have their own unique benefits, and your final choice depends on your individual needs, space, and budget. It’s important to carefully evaluate your choices before picking one that works best for you. Irrespective of your choice, ensure that you invest in proper installation and maintenance practices to guarantee your TV’s safety and maintain the mount’s durability.