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A wall-mounted TV looks tidy and frees up space, but a poor mount can drop a very expensive screen. This guide explains how to match a mount to your TV, how to find studs, how high to hang the TV and how to hide cables. It is general guidance, so follow the instructions that come with your TV and mount.

This guide is based on product listings and general TV knowledge rather than our own testing. Specs and features vary by model and year, so confirm the details on the product page.

By the Reviewstook Editorial Team. Last updated: October 31, 2026.

Check VESA and Weight

Look in the TV manual for the VESA pattern, which is the spacing of the four mounting holes in millimeters, such as 200 x 200 or 400 x 400, and for the weight. Choose a mount that lists your VESA pattern and a weight limit comfortably above the TV weight. Do not guess, and check the screw size in the TV manual.

Types of Mount

  • Fixed: slim and cheap, but the TV cannot move.
  • Tilting: angles the screen down, useful when the TV is mounted high.
  • Full motion (articulating): swings out and turns, handy in corners and for wide rooms, but sticks out more and holds less weight on some models.

Find the Studs

Use a stud finder and mark the studs. In many homes with wood framing, studs are about 16 inches apart from center to center, but this varies. Mount to studs, or use a mount and fasteners rated for the wall type. Concrete, brick and metal studs need different anchors, and a professional installer is worth it if you are unsure.

How High to Hang the TV

A common starting point is to place the center of the screen near eye level when seated, which for many rooms is roughly 40 to 45 inches from the floor to the center. For a TV over a fireplace or in a bedroom, a tilting mount helps the angle. Mark your height with painter tape and sit down to check.

Step-by-Step Installation

  1. Attach the mount brackets to the back of the TV with the supplied screws.
  2. Hold the wall plate against the wall, level it and mark the stud holes.
  3. Drill pilot holes and fasten the wall plate with the supplied lag bolts.
  4. With a helper, lift the TV and hook it onto the plate.
  5. Lock it in place and check that it is level and secure before letting go.

Hide the Cables

Use a cable cover that sticks to the wall, or run cables inside the wall with an in-wall power and cable kit. Use cable rated for in-wall use (CL2 or CL3) and follow local electrical rules. See also our HDMI cable guide for cable choices.

Safety Notes

  • Always use two people for TVs over about 40 pounds.
  • Do not mount a TV where heat rises, such as over a working fireplace, without checking the manufacturer limits.
  • Re-check the bolts after a few weeks.
  • Follow the weight and size limits of both the mount and the wall.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does VESA mean?

VESA is the standard for the hole spacing on the back of a TV and the matching mount pattern.

Can I mount a TV without studs?

Only with anchors rated for the TV weight, and a professional is a safer option.

Is a tilting or full motion mount better?

Tilting suits higher mounts, while full motion suits corners and wide rooms.

How far should a TV be from the wall?

Fixed mounts sit close to the wall. Leave room for ports and ventilation.

Bottom Line

Match the mount to your VESA pattern and weight, anchor to studs, hang the TV at a comfortable height and hide the cables. If in doubt, hire an installer.