TV Mounting Tips for Better Viewing Angles

You probably hear plenty of chatter about the latest screen technology, from stunning 4K TVs to the immersive depth of OLED TVs. But once you've picked out the perfect model, there is one more big decision to make: where and how to hang it. Having a high-quality TV is great, but the way you mount it can make a huge difference in your viewing experience. Read on for some great tips about mounting your TV to ensure you get the best viewing angles possible.

Finding the Perfect TV Height

The first thing you're going to need to figure out is where on your wall you want to mount your TV. The height it should be at is arguably the most important consideration you need to make here. To determine the best height at which to mount your TV, you should make sure it lines up with your eye level from wherever you're going to be watching it from. Generally, you want the center, or lower half of the TV to align with your seated eye level. Let's break it down further:

• Living Room Setups: In a living room, you're usually sitting on a sofa, so the center of the screen should align with your seated eye level to avoid neck strain.
• Bedroom Setups: If you prefer watching from bed, you might actually want the TV slightly higher since you may be laying back for much of the time that you're watching it.
• Tilt Angles: If you must mount the TV higher than eye level for one reason or another, you'll need to account for the viewing angle so the colors and brightness stay consistent. If that's the case, you'll need to tilt the TV, likely with a tilt mount, to make sure you can see it properly.

Picking the Right Mount

There are a few different types of TV mounts to be aware of when you're looking to mount your TV on the wall.

Fixed TV Mounts

These are the most basic and reliable options. Fixed TV mounts hold your TV securely against the wall for a clean, low-profile look. These are perfect if you have a dedicated "sweet spot" on your couch and don't need to adjust the screen.

Tilt TV Mounts

We touched on these earlier. Tilt TV mounts allow you to angle the screen down. This is an essential feature if your TV is positioned higher than eye level, as it helps maintain better viewing angles and reduces glare from overhead lighting or windows.

Full Motion TV Mounts

If you want the most versatility, a full motion TV mount is the way to go. These units allow you to pull the TV out from the wall and swivel it toward different parts of the room. This is great for open-concept spaces where you might want to watch a show from the kitchen and then swivel it back toward the living room later.

Ceiling TV Mounts

Ceiling TV mounts work well in rooms where you might have limited space. Rather than the wall, these mounts hang your TV from the ceiling and often feature 360-degree swivels so they can face any direction in the room.

Installing the Mount

Installing a mount is a task that requires precision. It's the foundation of your entire entertainment setup, so getting it right the first time is key.

• Find the Studs: Never hang a heavy TV on drywall alone, especially if it's a heavy TV. Always use a stud finder to ensure the mount is anchored to the wooden studs in your wall.
• Have a Helper: TVs are often thinner these days, but they can still be heavy and awkward to lift. Having a second pair of hands makes the process much safer for both you and your tech.
• Level it Out: Use a level during every step of the process to ensure your screen doesn't end up with a distracting slant.

If this doesn't seem like something you'd be willing to do, you may prefer a TV stand setup over a mounted TV. To learn more about the pros and cons between the two check out our blog: Wall-Mounted vs. Stand TVs. If you're trying to mount a larger TV or an expensive OLED model, it's never a bad idea to get some help, especially from P.C. Richard & Son's TV installation services.

While it is easy to get lost in the technical specs of a new TV, the way you mount it is what brings the experience home. Getting those viewing angles just right can make a major difference when it comes to your comfort. Once you have it where you want it, your TV will fit perfectly into your space while providing an amazing and comfortable view.