Let’s talk TV brackets. Nothing’s more exciting than purchasing a brand new TV, you have plans for it and know exactly where you’d like to mount it. The problem is, it doesn’t come with a mount and there are thousands of options on the market. How do you know which TV mount is the right one for you? Contrary to belief, choosing a mount isn’t just about finding one that fits your TV. It’s about matching your viewing habits, your room layout and even the wall that you plan to attach it to. 

The good news is, this guide will talk you through the essential factors to consider before purchasing your TV mounting kit. So that you can mount a safe and secure TV. 

Step 1: Know Your TV’s Specifications

Before you even start looking at mounts, you need to know three key things about your television. This information is usually in your TV’s user manual or on the manufacturer’s website.

TV Weight: The most critical factor. Every mount has a maximum weight capacity. You must choose a mount that is rated to hold more than your TV weighs. Exceeding this limit is a serious safety hazard. Your TV will fall to the ground, and it’s you left with the replacement bill.

Screen Size: Mounts are typically designed for a specific range of screen sizes (e.g., 32″-55″). While a mount might be strong enough, a screen that’s too big or too small might not align correctly with the bracket.

VESA Pattern: This is the universal standard for TV mounts. It refers to the distance in millimeters between the four mounting holes on the back of your TV. The VESA pattern is written as a horizontal measurement followed by a vertical one (e.g., 400x400mm). You must find a mount that is compatible with your TV’s VESA pattern.

Step 2: Choose Your Mount Type

Now that you know the vital information. There are three main types of TV mounts, each offering a different level of flexibility and best suited for a specific purpose.

1. Fixed Mounts (The “Picture Frame”)

Best for: A clean, minimalist look where the TV is always viewed from a single, fixed position directly in front of the screen.

Pros: Sits flush against the wall for a sleek appearance. It’s the most affordable, secure, and easiest to install of the three types.

Cons: No flexibility. You cannot adjust the TV’s angle, which can make accessing ports and managing cables difficult.

2. Tilting Mounts (The “Glare Reducer”)

Best for: Rooms where you need to mount the TV higher than eye level, such as above a fireplace or in a bedroom, and for reducing glare from windows or lights.

Pros: Allows you to tilt the TV up or down by a few degrees. This improves the viewing angle when you’re sitting below the screen and helps eliminate annoying reflections.

Cons: Provides only vertical adjustment. You can’t swivel or move the TV horizontally, and it doesn’t sit as flush to the wall as a fixed mount.

3. Full-Motion Mounts (The “Ultimate Flex”)

Best for: Spaces with multiple viewing areas or unconventional layouts, such as an open-concept living room or a corner installation.

Pros: Offers maximum versatility. These mounts extend from the wall and allow you to swivel, tilt, and even rotate the TV. This is ideal if you want to watch TV from the kitchen while cooking or adjust the angle for a different couch. They also make it very easy to access the ports on the back of your TV.

Cons: These are the most expensive and complex mounts. They extend farther from the wall when not in use and require a more robust installation to support the TV’s weight when extended.

Step 3: Consider Your Wall Type

A mistake most people make is they don’t consider the wall they are going to mount. Before you buy, you need to know what you’re drilling into. This is crucial for safety.

Stud Walls: Most interior walls are made of wooden or metal studs with drywall. You must anchor the mount directly into the studs for a secure hold. Use a stud finder to locate them and ensure your mount’s holes align with the stud spacing.

Brick or Concrete Walls: These are the strongest and can handle any type of mount. You’ll need a masonry drill bit and specific wall anchors for a safe installation.

Plasterboard (Drywall) Only: Mounting a heavy TV directly to drywall is a huge risk. While some special anchors exist for very light TVs, it’s highly recommended to always use a stud for support. If you can’t find a stud, it’s best to hire a professional.

Final Checklist Before You Buy

Have your VESA number, TV weight, and screen size ready.

Know the type of mount you want (fixed, tilting, or full-motion).

Ensure the mount can handle your TV’s specs and is compatible with your wall.

Check for useful features like integrated cable management or a built-in spirit level for easy installation.

If you’re unsure about any part of the process, consider hiring a professional installer.

By taking the time to consider these factors, you can find a TV mount that not only saves space and improves your viewing experience but also keeps your TV safely and securely on the wall for years to come.

Are you in need of TV mounting in the NYC area? Take away the guesswork, and have us install your TV without the stress. Simply click the button below to book.