Buying Guide for the Best Drywall TV Mount
Mounting a TV on drywall can be a great way to save space and create a modern look in your room. However, it's important to pick the right mount to ensure safety and stability for both your TV and your wall. When shopping for a drywall TV mount, understanding the different features and specifications will help you choose the right one for your needs, room size, and viewing preferences. Let's go through the most important things to consider.Weight CapacityWeight capacity tells you the maximum weight the mount can safely hold. This is crucial because if your TV is heavier than the mount's limit, it could fall and cause damage. It’s usually measured in kilograms or pounds. Mounts are divided into those designed for small, medium, or large TVs. When deciding, check your TV’s weight in the manual or online, then choose a mount that safely supports a little more than that. This gives extra safety and accounts for any potential errors.
VESA CompatibilityVESA compatibility refers to the distance between the mounting holes on the back of your TV, measured in millimeters. It's a standard that ensures your TV will fit on the mount. Common patterns include 100x100, 200x200, 400x400, and so on. Smaller TVs usually have smaller VESA patterns, while larger TVs need bigger ones. Always check your TV’s VESA information and choose a mount that matches it exactly. This helps avoid installation issues and guarantees a secure fit.
Mounting Type (Fixed, Tilting, Full Motion)Mounts come in several types. Fixed mounts keep the TV flat against the wall, saving the most space but offering no movement. Tilting mounts allow you to angle the screen up or down, which is helpful to reduce glare from lights or windows. Full motion (or articulating) mounts let you move the TV left, right, in and out, making it easier to watch from different places in the room. Your choice depends on your viewing habits—if you always sit in one spot, a fixed mount is fine; if you move around or need to adjust for sun, tilting or full motion is better.
Stud Placement and Mounting HardwareDrywall TV mounts usually require anchoring to wooden wall studs for stability because drywall alone may not support your TV's weight. Some mounts even include hardware for special drywall anchors, but mounting directly to studs is safest. Stud spacing is commonly 16 or 24 inches apart, so you should check your wall before buying. Make sure your mount includes the right hardware for your wall type, and always follow installation instructions carefully for safety.
TV Size RangeEvery mount lists a recommended TV screen size range, such as 32 to 55 inches. This range is based on both the weight and the spacing of the mounting holes (VESA pattern) the mount can safely support. Using a mount meant for your TV’s size makes installation easier and ensures the TV won’t stick out awkwardly or feel unstable. Measure your TV diagonally to know its size and choose a mount designed for that range.
Profile/Distance from WallThe profile refers to how far the TV will sit from the wall once mounted. Low-profile mounts keep the TV close for a sleek look, while tilting and full-motion mounts may stick out further to allow movement. If space is tight or you want a flush appearance, pick a low-profile model. If you need access to the back of the TV or want to adjust angles, a mount with a bigger profile will be more suitable.