Choosing a TV stand is about more than finding something that fits your television. The right TV stand should balance size, storage, materials, and everyday usability, while fitting naturally into your living space.
At VBU Furniture, we focus on helping customers make informed furniture choices by offering clear buying guidance and thoughtfully curated furniture collections. Selecting the right TV stand isn’t just about measurements—it’s about finding a piece that works with how you live and use your living room every day.
1. Start with TV Size and Stand Width
One of the most common mistakes when choosing a TV stand is selecting one that is too narrow for the television.
A good rule of thumb:
- The TV stand should be several inches wider than the TV on both sides.
- This creates visual balance and improves stability.
General sizing guidance:
- 55-inch TVs: TV stands around 60 inches or wider
- 65-inch TVs: TV stands around 70 inches or wider
- 75-inch TVs: TV stands around 80 inches or wider
Always confirm the actual width of your TV, not just the advertised screen size.
2. Consider Viewing Height and Comfort
For comfortable viewing, the center of the TV screen should typically sit at or slightly below eye level when seated.
Most living rooms work well with TV stands that are:
- 18–24 inches tall
Lower-profile TV stands often suit modern or minimalist spaces, while taller designs may be better for rooms with higher seating or additional storage needs.
3. Decide How Much Storage You Need
TV stands often serve as storage pieces as well as media furniture.
Consider:
- Space for streaming devices, gaming consoles, or cable boxes
- Storage for books, movies, or everyday items
- Preference for open shelving or closed cabinets
Common storage options include:
- Open shelving for easy access and ventilation
- Cabinets or drawers to reduce visual clutter
- A combination of both for flexibility
4. Choose a Style That Fits Your Space
TV stands come in a range of styles, from modern and minimalist to rustic and traditional.
When choosing a style, think about:
- Existing furniture finishes
- Wall colors and flooring
- Whether the TV stand should blend in or act as a focal point
5. Understand Materials and Construction
TV stands are commonly made from solid wood, engineered wood, or a combination of both.
Rather than focusing on material labels alone, pay attention to:
- Overall construction quality
- Panel thickness and support
- Hardware, joints, and finishes
Well-constructed engineered wood TV stands can perform exceptionally well for everyday use when designed with stability and durability in mind.
6. Think About Cable Management and Ventilation
Practical details matter for long-term satisfaction.
Look for features such as:
- Cable cutouts or wire management openings
- Adequate ventilation for electronics
- Easy access to outlets and connections
FINAL THOUGHTS
The best TV stand is one that fits your television, supports your storage needs, and complements how your living room is used every day. Focusing on size, construction quality, thoughtful design, and practical features leads to better long-term satisfaction than choosing based on appearance alone.
If you’re comparing different TV stand options, reviewing carefully curated furniture collections can help you evaluate size, materials, and features side by side—making it easier to choose a piece that truly fits your home.
For a deeper look at furniture materials and how they affect durability and everyday use, you may also find this guide helpful: Engineered Wood vs. Solid Wood Furniture: How to Choose What’s Right for Your Home.
This article was prepared by the VBU Furniture team to help readers make informed furniture decisions based on materials, construction, and everyday use.
FAQ: How to Choose the Right TV Stand
How wide should a TV stand be compared to the TV?
A TV stand should generally be wider than the television on both sides. This helps create visual balance and provides better stability. As a general guideline, a 55-inch TV pairs well with a stand around 60 inches wide, a 65-inch TV with a 70-inch stand, and a 75-inch TV with a stand around 80 inches wide. Always check the actual width of the TV, not just the screen size.
What height is best for a TV stand?
Most living rooms work well with TV stands that are 18–24 inches tall. Lower-profile TV stands often suit modern or minimalist spaces, while taller designs may be better for rooms with higher seating or additional storage needs. This is especially important when comparing different TV stand designs and materials, as height, structure, and construction can affect both comfort and long-term usability.
Are engineered wood TV stands durable for everyday use?
Yes. High-quality engineered wood TV stands can be very durable for everyday use when built with strong cores, proper support, and quality hardware. Construction quality and design are often more important than the material label alone.
How much storage should a TV stand have?
The right amount of storage depends on how the TV stand will be used. Some households need space for streaming devices, gaming consoles, or cable boxes, while others prefer closed cabinets to hide clutter. Many TV stands combine open shelving with cabinets or drawers to provide flexibility.
Do TV stands need ventilation for electronics?
Yes. Electronics generate heat, so proper ventilation helps prevent overheating. TV stands with open shelving, ventilation gaps, or rear cutouts allow airflow and make it easier to manage cables and connections.
