Buying a TV mount can be a challenging process, especially if you’re not familiar with the different types of mounts and how they work. A good TV mount is an essential accessory for your TV, and it’s important to choose one that will provide the best viewing experience. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of buying a TV mount, from choosing the right type to installing it properly.
Why Choosing the Right TV Mount is Important for Your Viewing Experience
Choosing the right TV mount can significantly impact your viewing experience. If you choose a mount that’s not compatible with your TV or doesn’t provide the right features, you may end up with an uncomfortable viewing angle, which can lead to eye strain, neck pain, and other physical discomforts. A good TV mount not only provides a comfortable viewing angle but also enhances the aesthetics of your room by keeping your TV off the floor and freeing up space.
Additionally, choosing the right TV mount can also improve the safety of your home. A sturdy and secure mount can prevent your TV from falling and causing damage or injury. It’s important to consider the weight and size of your TV when selecting a mount, as well as the type of wall it will be mounted on. By taking these factors into account, you can ensure that your TV is safely and securely mounted, providing you with peace of mind while you enjoy your favorite shows and movies.
Types of TV Mounts and Their Pros & Cons
There are several types of TV mounts available in the market, each designed to suit different needs and preferences. The most common types of TV mounts include fixed mounts, tilt mounts, full-motion mounts, and articulating mounts.
Fixed mounts are the most basic and affordable type of TV mount. They attach the TV to the wall and don’t allow any adjustability. Tilt mounts allow you to tilt the TV up and down to provide a better viewing angle. Full-motion mounts allow you to move the TV in all directions, including up and down, side to side, and even tilt it. Finally, articulating mounts provide the maximum adjustability by allowing you to pull the TV out from the wall and move it around as needed.
Each type of mount has its own set of pros and cons, depending on your needs and preferences. Fixed mounts are the most affordable, but they don’t offer any adjustability. Tilt mounts are a good choice if you want a better viewing angle but don’t need to move the TV around too much. Full-motion and articulating mounts provide the maximum adjustability but can be more expensive than fixed and tilt mounts.
It’s important to consider the weight and size of your TV when choosing a mount. Fixed mounts are best suited for smaller TVs, while full-motion and articulating mounts are better for larger, heavier TVs. Additionally, if you have children or pets in the house, it’s important to choose a mount that can securely hold your TV and prevent it from being accidentally knocked over.
Fixed vs. Tilted TV Mount: Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between a fixed and tilt mount depends on your viewing preferences. Fixed mounts keep your TV in a fixed position, usually parallel to the wall. If you only plan to sit directly in front of the TV, a fixed mount may be a good option for you. However, if you prefer to watch your TV from different angles, a tilt mount may be a better choice.
Tilt mounts allow you to tilt the TV up or down, providing a better viewing angle from different positions in the room. This can be helpful if you like to watch TV from a comfortable chair or couch at an angle. However, keep in mind that a tilt mount may reduce the clearance between the wall and the TV, which can limit your flexibility when it comes to cable management.
Another factor to consider when choosing between a fixed and tilt mount is the size and weight of your TV. Fixed mounts are generally better suited for smaller, lighter TVs, while tilt mounts are recommended for larger, heavier TVs. This is because the weight of a larger TV can put more stress on a fixed mount, potentially causing it to sag or even fail over time. Tilt mounts, on the other hand, are designed to support the weight of larger TVs and provide a more secure mounting solution.
Full-Motion vs. Articulating TV Mount: What’s the Difference?
Full-motion and articulating mounts are the most versatile type of TV mount available. Full-motion mounts allow you to move the TV in all directions, including up and down, side to side, and even tilt it. Articulating mounts provide the maximum adjustability by allowing you to pull the TV out from the wall and move it around as needed.
The difference between the two is that full-motion mounts move the TV in a single plane, while articulating mounts provide multi-plane movements. Full-motion mounts may be a better option if you plan to watch TV from a fixed position but want to adjust the viewing angle as needed. Articulating mounts are the best choice if you need maximum adjustability and want to move the TV around different positions in the room.
Assessing Your Room and Wall Space for TV Mounting
Before buying a TV mount, it’s important to assess your room and wall space to determine the best location for the TV. Start by deciding where you want to place your TV in the room and measure the wall space to ensure that it can accommodate your chosen TV mount. Consider the height and angle of the mount, as well as the clearance between the wall and the TV.
You should also check the area behind the wall where you want to install the TV mount. This can help you determine where to insert the screws and if there are any obstructions that may interfere with the installation.
How to Determine the VESA Compatibility of Your TV and Mount
VESA (Video Electronics Standards Association) is the standard used to determine the compatibility between TV mounts and TVs. The VESA pattern indicates the distance between the mounting holes on your TV and the corresponding holes on the mount.
To determine the VESA pattern of your TV, check the user manual or look for a label on the back of the TV that indicates its VESA size. Once you know the VESA pattern of your TV, you can choose a mount with a compatible VESA pattern. Most mounts come with adapters that fit different VESA patterns, so make sure to choose the right one.
Understanding Weight Limits and Load Capacity of TV Mounts
Another thing to consider when buying a TV mount is the weight limit and load capacity. The weight limit is the maximum weight that the mount can support, and the load capacity is the weight of the TV plus any additional equipment that you plan to attach to the mount, such as a soundbar or DVD player.
Make sure to choose a mount that can support the weight of your TV and any additional equipment. Exceeding the weight limit or load capacity of the mount can lead to instability, which can damage your TV or cause it to fall off the wall.
How to Install a TV Mount: Step-by-Step Guide
Once you’ve chosen the right TV mount for your needs, it’s time to install it. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to install a TV mount:
- Start by marking the location on the wall where you want to install the TV mount with a pencil.
- Use a stud finder to locate the studs behind the wall.
- Once you’ve located the studs, mark their location on the wall using a pencil or masking tape.
- Position the wall plate of the TV mount against the wall, making sure to align the screw holes with the marks you made earlier.
- Secure the wall plate to the wall using the screws provided, making sure to drive them into the center of the studs.
- Attach the bracket to the TV using the screws provided, making sure to align the VESA pattern of the bracket with the TV.
- Attach the TV to the wall plate by hanging the bracket onto the plate.
- Secure the TV to the wall plate using the screws provided, making sure to tighten them securely.
- Test the stability of the mount by applying gentle pressure to the TV in different directions.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Installing a TV Mount
Installing a TV mount can be challenging, especially if you’re doing it for the first time. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when installing a TV mount:
- Not using a level to ensure that the mount is straight.
- Not securing the mount to the wall using the screws provided, which can lead to instability.
- Attaching the bracket to the TV improperly, which can cause the TV to fall off the mount.
- Exceeding the weight limit or load capacity of the mount, which can damage your TV or cause it to fall off the wall.
- Not testing the stability of the mount before using it.
Tips for Maintaining Your TV Mount and Keeping it Secure
After installing your TV mount, it’s important to maintain it properly to prevent it from becoming loose or unstable. Here are some tips for maintaining your TV mount:
- Periodically check the screws and bolts to ensure that they’re tight.
- Clean the mount and the TV regularly using a soft, dry cloth to prevent dust and dirt buildup.
- Don’t overload the mount with additional equipment, which can exceed its load capacity.
- Make sure that the cables are neatly organized and don’t interfere with the stability of the mount.
Choosing the Right Accessories for Your TV Mount
There are several accessories available in the market that can enhance the functionality of your TV mount. Here are some popular accessories:
- Cable management kits that help you organize the cables and wires behind your TV.
- Soundbars that attach to the mount to provide a better audio experience.
- Shelf attachments that allow you to store additional equipment.
- Wall plates that provide a clean and finished look to your installation.
Budget-Friendly Options for Buying a TV Mount
TV mounts can range from affordable to expensive, depending on your needs and preferences. Here are some budget-friendly options for buying a TV mount:
- Fixed mounts are the most affordable option and can cost as little as $15.
- Tilt mounts are slightly more expensive than fixed mounts but still affordable, ranging from $25 to $50.
- Full-motion and articulating mounts are the most expensive mounts available, ranging from $50 to $200.
Benefits of Professional Installation vs DIY Installation
Finally, before buying a TV mount, you should decide whether to install it yourself or hire a professional installer. While DIY installation can save you money, it can also be challenging, especially if you’re not familiar with the process. Professional installation ensures that the mount is installed correctly and provides the best viewing experience.
Overall, choosing the right TV mount for your needs and installing it correctly can significantly enhance your viewing experience. We hope this guide has helped you choose the best TV mount for your home and ensure that it’s installed safely and securely.