How high should I mount my TV? Tips for perfect placement

The ideal height for mounting a TV enhances the viewing experience by providing a clearer picture, better comfort, and a more organized aesthetic. It also improves posture, as you don’t need to strain your neck or body.

So, how high should I mount my TV? The answer depends on the size of your TV, the height of the person watching, the furniture height, and how you typically use the space.

Read on to learn the ideal height to mount a TV and tips to improve your viewing experience.

How high should I mount my TV on the wall?

A general guideline is to position your TV at eye level, which is the most comfortable and natural viewing height. This means mounting the TV so that the center of the screen is between 42 and 60 inches from the floor. This allows you to view the screen without tilting your head up or down excessively, reducing the risk of neck strain.

If the TV is mounted too high, you'll be forced to look upward, which eventually causes neck discomfort. Conversely, if the TV is too low, you will keep looking down, leading to neck strain. The goal is to maintain a relaxed, neutral neck position while watching TV.

How high should I mount my TV above my fireplace?

The general recommendation is to mount the TV so that the bottom edge of the TV is around 3 to 4 inches above the top of the mantel. For example, if the mantel height is 54 inches, the bottom of the TV should be about 58 inches above the floor.

However, mounting a TV above a fireplace presents a few challenges. 

First, the space above the mantel can be too high for comfortable TV viewing, especially if you live in a newer construction with taller fireplaces. This can force you to adjust your seating or constantly tilt your head, causing neck discomfort. 

Additionally, placing a TV above a fireplace can be risky because of the heat and smoke from wood fires. Excessive heat can damage the TV's internal components, shortening its lifespan. Likewise, the flickering flames and ambient light from a burning fire can be distracting and interfere with the quality of your TV experience.

That said, there are scenarios where mounting a TV above the fireplace may be the only option, such as if your space is small or the area above the mantel is the only available spot. It could also make sense if the area above your fireplace already has cables and jacks or if it’s a gas fireplace that doesn't generate excessive heat.

Consider using a tilting mount to mitigate the discomfort of mounting the TV higher than desired. It lets you angle the TV downward, helping to achieve a more natural, eye-level viewing experience.

How high should I mount my TV in my bedroom?

When mounting a TV in your bedroom, the general guideline is to position it at eye level or slightly above eye level when seated in bed. For most people, this means mounting the TV at around 50 inches from the floor to the center of the screen. However, the ideal height can vary based on individual preferences and body size, with some people finding that a height between 42 and 60 inches from the floor works better for them.

To determine the best height for your setup, use your eye level as a reference point. When seated in bed, your eye level should be roughly in the center of the TV screen. This positioning allows you to watch comfortably without excessively tilting your head upward or downward. 

The TV size and room layout also play a significant role in determining the ideal height. Larger TVs, such as 55-inch or 65-inch models, require a slightly lower mount to avoid an uncomfortable viewing angle when lying in bed. On the other hand, smaller TVs can often be mounted higher without compromising comfort. 

What height should you mount a TV in different rooms?

The ideal TV height depends on the seating arrangement in each room and the specific room's layout.

For instance,

• In living rooms, where viewers are typically seated on sofas, the TV should be mounted at 42 to 48 inches from the floor to the center of the screen. 
• In entertainment rooms with theater-style or reclining seating, a height of 40 inches aligns the TV at eye level for optimal comfort. 
• In dining areas, where the TV is viewed from a barstool, dining chair, or high-top table, mount the TV at 50 to 60 inches for optimal visibility from a seated position.

How to install a TV wall mount: Choosing the right bracket and ensuring secure placement

The first step to mount a TV on the wall is to choose the right bracket that matches your TV’s size and weight. Typically, there are three main types of mounts:

• Fixed mounts: These are the most straightforward and affordable option. They hold the TV in a fixed position and work well for smaller TVs and rooms where the viewing angle doesn’t need to be adjusted.
• Tilting mounts: These are ideal for TVs mounted at higher positions or ceilings. They allow you to adjust the angle vertically to reduce glare or improve viewing angles.
• Full-motion mounts: These offer the most flexibility, allowing you to tilt, swivel, and extend the TV. Full-motion mounts are perfect for larger TVs or rooms with multiple seating areas or open-concept spaces.

How to mount a TV to a wall?

Follow these simple steps to mount a TV to the wall:

• Gather the necessary tools, including a stud finder, measuring tape, a level, a drill, screwdrivers, a wrench, and a pencil for marking positions.
• Determine the best viewing height for your TV.
• Use a stud finder to locate the studs on the wall and mark their positions with a pencil.
• Hold the mounting bracket against the wall at the desired height and use a level to ensure it’s straight. 
• Mark where the screws will go and drill holes at the marked spots.
• Attach the wall bracket to the wall using heavy-duty screws, ensuring they go into the studs.
• Attach the mounting plate to the back of your TV, ensuring they are tight but not over-tightened.
• Gently lift the TV and hook it onto the wall bracket, securing it with the locking mechanism or screws provided. If it’s a large TV, get another person to help lift it.
• Connect the cables and organize them neatly.
• Check the TV’s stability by gently pushing or pulling it.

Wall mounting a TV: Tips for an immersive experience

The proper setup can improve picture quality, sound quality, and comfort. Here are some essential tips to help you maximize your TV setup for the best viewing experience.

• Avoid direct light sources pointing at the TV to maintain picture clarity.
• Add LED strip lights behind the TV for a soft backlight. This can reduce eye strain and enhance contrast.
• Ensure the TV is mounted at a height that provides the best viewing angle from your seating area.
• Use in-wall cable kits or behind-the-wall wiring to keep cables neat. If running cables through walls isn't an option, use cable trays or surface-mounted raceways.
• Position your furniture to align with the TV's location, and ensure the TV is not obstructed by anything that could block the screen or create distractions. 
• Ensure that the TV size is proportionate to the room. A large TV can overwhelm a small space, while a small TV might look out of place in a large room.
• Invest in a soundbar or surround sound system for a more immersive experience. If using surround sound, place the speakers in optimal positions to create a more dynamic and immersive audio experience.

Can you mount a TV on any wall?

You can’t mount a TV on any wall. The most crucial factor in mounting a television on the wall is whether it’s strong enough to support the TV’s weight. Generally, drywall alone is not sufficient. The best option is to mount your TV on studs within the wall, as they are much stronger than drywall.

In addition to this, ensure that the mount you choose is compatible with your TV’s VESA pattern (the standard hole spacing on the back) and can support the TV’s weight. Check the mount’s specifications for weight capacity and make sure it fits your TV’s dimensions.