TV Stand Size Guide: How to Choose the Right Stand for Your TV

In modern American family life, television is a must-have. Americans typically spend 3 - 5 hours daily in front of it. When creating a new home entertainment area, finding a properly sized TV stand is key. A wrong-sized stand causes issues: a small one makes the TV unstable and dangerous; a large one ruins the space's harmony and visual, making the living room seem crowded and unbalanced, also affecting one's psychological state.Whether for new home decoration or upgrading an existing center, this guide reveals the size relation secrets between TV and stand to help you choose the right one and build an ideal home entertainment space.  

Finding the Actual Size of Your TV

When picking a TV stand size to match your TV, it's crucial to know the actual size of the TV. So first of all, we need to figure out the actual size of the TV.Usually, the size of a TV refers to the length of the diagonal of the screen. For example, when you see a TV labeled as "55 inches", it means the distance from one corner of the screen (such as the bottom left corner) to the opposite corner (the top right corner) is 55 inches.  

Finding the Actual Height of Your TV

In addition, you also need to measure the overall height and overall depth of the TV. We measure the total height of the TV to work out the right height for the TV stand. That way, the TV will be in a proper position for viewing. It helps us avoid getting neck pain or having a bad visual experience when we watch TV because of a wrong height. Meanwhile, a proper height match also helps maintain the aesthetics and coordination of the entire home entertainment area.Measure the TV from the bottom (including the base) to the top border with a tape measure. This is crucial because the base is also part of the overall height of the TV.(It should be noted that if there are some additional components above the TV screen, such as cameras, sensors, or decorative elements, the height of these components should also be included in the measurement range of the overall height.)

Finding the Actual Depth of Your TV

Measuring the overall depth of the TV is to ensure that the depth of the TV stand can accommodate the TV, preventing the TV from leaning forward or being unstable when placed on the TV stand. Besides, a proper depth match can also make the TV look neater and more aesthetically pleasing on the TV stand, and it is convenient for connecting various cables.

Measure the distance from the front of the TV screen to the back, including the protruding parts such as the base and interfaces.

If you don't have a tape measure, you can check the detailed product information on the manufacturer's website. Understanding the width is very important to ensure that your TV is firmly fixed on the stand, preventing any accidents from happening and maintaining the installation. When you first purchase a TV, the manufacturer may indicate the size of the TV on the packaging.

Common TV Sizes and Corresponding Actual Size References

How to Choose the Perfect TV Size and TV Stand Size for Your Living Room

Now that you know the actual size of your TV, you'll have a better idea of what size of TV stand you need.

Finding the Perfect Height of the TV Stand

For the best viewing experience and to reduce neck fatigue, the height of the TV stand should position the center of the TV screen at or slightly below the average eye - level line of sight. Here's how to determine the height of the TV stand: Measure the distance from the floor to the average line of sight of the viewers in your home. After getting this number, subtract half of the TV's height. The error of your TV stand's height should be within an inch or two.

Specific Measurement Method

Sit in the position where you usually watch TV (such as on the sofa), and use a tape measure to measure the height from the ground to the viewer's eye - level line of sight. Record this value and measure the height of the TV. Subtract half of the TV's height from the eye-level height value, and the resulting number is the ideal height range for the TV stand. Generally speaking, a TV stand height within 1 - 2 inches above or below this calculated result can provide a relatively comfortable viewing experience.For example, if the viewer's eye - level line of sight is 42 inches and the TV's height is 30 inches, then the ideal height of the TV stand is approximately 42 - 15 = 27 inches, and you can choose a suitable TV stand height between 25 and 28 inches.

Finding the Perfect Width of the TV Stand

The width of the TV stand should be slightly wider than the width of the TV. To calculate the suitable size of the TV stand for your current TV, follow these steps: Calculate the TV stand size: Multiply the TV size by 1.25. This is to ensure that there is a certain margin on both the left and right sides when the TV is placed on it, which not only makes the visual effect more balanced but also provides extra space for placing small items such as speakers and remote controls.For example:If your TV is 60 inches: TV stand size = 60 inches × 1.25TV stand size = 75 inches

Finding the Perfect Depth of the TV Stand

When considering the size of the TV stand, depth is a crucial factor as it is directly related to whether the TV can be placed safely and stably. The depth of the TV stand needs to accommodate the overall depth of the TV, including the TV screen, the base, and the protruding parts at the back (such as interfaces, heat - dissipation devices, etc.). If the depth of the TV stand is not enough, the TV may lean forward, which will not only affect the viewing experience but also pose a safety hazard.

Before making a choice, we need to first determine the way of hanging the TV.

If you plan to mount the TV on the wall and the TV stand is mainly used for placing other devices and for decoration purposes, then the depth of the TV stand can be determined according to the needs of the devices and decoration. It doesn't necessarily have to match the depth of the TV exactly. However, from the perspective of visual harmony, the difference in depth between the TV stand and the TV shouldn't be too large either.

If you intend to place the TV on the TV stand, for the convenience of connecting and tidying up the cables behind the TV, it is recommended to add an extra 2 - 3 inches to the actual depth of the TV. This will leave enough space to hide the cables and make the back of the TV stand look neater. Taking the TV with a depth of 10 inches is just mentioned as an example. After considering the cable space, the ideal depth of the TV stand should be around 12 - 13 inches.

Additionally, if you plan to place other devices inside the TV stand, such as game consoles, Blu-ray players, audio equipment, etc., you also need to further adjust the depth of the TV stand according to the depth of these devices. Generally speaking, the depth of these devices is around 8 - 12 inches. You need to ensure that the TV stand has enough depth to accommodate both the TV and these devices.

To simplify your search for the perfect TV stand size, we have compiled the most comprehensive size guide for your reference.

TV Size Selection Reference

Please note that since the sizes of TVs and TV stands vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, the above table is only for general suggestions rather than strict guidelines. When arranging TVs, TV stands, and other heavy furniture, always exercise sensible judgment!

Now that you have grasped the general guidelines for choosing a TV stand of the appropriate size for your TV, it's time to go shopping! Depending on your space layout, there are various types available for you to choose from. So we have compiled a complete guide to TV stand types below.  

Small TV Stands

- Size Range: Usually suitable for 32 - 43-inch TVs, with a width generally ranging from 32 to 52 inches.- Features and Applicable Scenarios: Small TV stands are compact in design and are suitable for being placed in areas with limited space, such as bedrooms, lofts, small living rooms, or apartments.

- Suitable TV Stands Types:

-TV credenzas

-TV consoles

-Corner consoles

TV credenzas usually have certain storage functions and can be used to store devices such as DVD players and game consoles; corner consoles cleverly utilize corner space, saving space while providing stable support for the TV.

When you need a compact design for a smaller space, consider using a smaller-sized TV stand. It can easily support your TV without taking up too much of your space.

Medium-sized TV Stands

Size Range: Suitable for 43 - 65-inch TVs, with a width approximately ranging from 45 to 75 inches.

Features and Applicable Scenarios: Medium-sized TV stands not only provide enough space for placing the TV but also have more abundant storage options such as drawers and shelves, which can be used to store various media devices, books, and decorations. They are suitable for being placed in medium-sized living rooms, master bedrooms, or home theaters.

Suitable TV Stand Types:

Flycity TV Stand with Storage Cabinets for 75 Inch TV

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Flycity Electric Fireplace TV Stand for 65 inch TV

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- TV Consoles

- Fireplace Consoles

When you need a solution that offers more surface area in addition to built-in storage functions, medium-sized TV stands are the perfect choice for you. Many options even come with fireplace inserts, which can add warmth to your space while you are listening to your favorite programs.

Large-sized TV Stands

Size Range: Mainly designed for large-sized TVs of 65 inches and above, with a width generally being 70 inches and above.

Features and Applicable Scenarios: Large-sized TV stands are usually called entertainment centers or media consoles. They have a spacious surface and a large number of storage compartments, which can accommodate large TVs, multiple audio devices, Blu-ray players, game consoles, and a large amount of audio-visual materials. They are the ideal choice for creating a professional home theater or a luxurious living room entertainment area, capable of demonstrating the owner's taste and the pursuit of high-quality audio-visual enjoyment.

Suitable TV Stand Types:

Other Precautions for TV Stands

1. Placing in Combination with Other Furniture

When the TV stand is placed in combination with other furniture, attention should be paid to the overall coordination and space utilization efficiency. For example, when paired with a sound system, it is necessary to ensure that the TV stand has enough space to place the speakers, and the height and width can enable the sound propagation to achieve the best effect. If there are bookshelves or decorative cabinets nearby, the spacing between them should be considered to avoid overcrowded space or visual clutter.

2. Requirements for Different Viewing Distances

The viewing distance of the TV is closely related to the TV size and resolution, which will also indirectly affect the size selection of the TV stand. Generally speaking, the viewing distance should be between 1.5 and 2.5 times the length of the diagonal of the TV. For example, for a 55-inch TV, the appropriate viewing distance is approximately between 7 and 11 feet. After determining the viewing distance, an appropriate-sized TV stand should be selected according to the actual layout of the room to ensure that the TV can provide a clear and comfortable viewing experience at that distance without affecting the passage in the room and the use of other functional areas.You must consider the position of the TV stand and the viewing distance. We recommend that the viewing distance be at least 1.5 times the screen size. Therefore, if your TV size is 140 cm (55 inches), we recommend that the distance be at least 210 cm (82 inches).

3. Placement Location of the TV Stand

Avoid placing the TV in front of a window, as it may cause backlight problems and block the light. Instead, the aim is to place the TV in the entire seating area so that the center of the screen is aligned with the middle of the space, ensuring the viewing distance without overwhelming the room.

4. Style of the TV Stand

While carefully selecting the size of the TV stand to match the TV, the degree of integration between its style and the overall home style must not be ignored. A TV stand with a coordinated and unified style can greatly enhance the home environment, while on the contrary, it may disrupt the harmonious aesthetic feeling of the entire space.

5. Choice of Purchase Channels

Physical Furniture Stores: You can directly see and touch the TV stands, and intuitively experience their sizes, materials, and qualities. However, the selection in physical stores is relatively limited, and it may be impossible to find the styles and sizes that fully meet your needs.Online Shopping: There are a vast number of TV stand products available for selection when shopping online. It is convenient for you to compare different brands and styles, and the prices may be more competitive. However, since you cannot directly touch the actual products, there may be situations where there are size errors or the products do not meet your expectations. Before making a purchase, be sure to carefully check the product descriptions, size parameters, and user reviews. If you have any questions, you can communicate with the sellers.

Conclusion

Choosing a TV stand of the appropriate size is a crucial step in creating a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing home entertainment space. By accurately measuring the TV size, determining the ideal height and width of the TV stand, considering the TV type and special circumstances, and paying attention to relevant matters during the purchase process, you will be able to select a TV stand that perfectly matches your TV, enhance the home viewing experience, and at the same time make the layout of the entire living room or room more harmonious and orderly. It is hoped that this guide can help you make a wise decision among the numerous TV stand options and make your home entertainment center radiate unique charm.