TV Stand Size Guide

by Nick, Digital Specialist | May 23, 2021

Many people assume it's a simple question- what size TV stand would you like? But there are a lot of factors that go into selecting the perfect one to hold that brand new TV. Let's take a look!

Getting a new TV is always exciting- bigger, better, with the latest technology. Let’s get it plugged in and put our favorite show on! But before you get that new TV, make sure you have something to put it on! Your brand new TV deserves something better than a milk crate, so let’s investigate some options.

First things first: measure the (approximate) distance from where the TV is going to go to where you’re going to sit. This doesn’t have to be perfect, but you’ll need a rough idea to figure out the next steps.

Next, remember the number 1.6. (if you’re familiar with the “golden ratio” from art class, that’s where this number comes from). Take the overall distance you measured and divide by 1.6. So if that distance is, say, 100 inches, you’ll want to shop for TVs that are roughly 62 inches (on the diagonal).

Now that we know what size TV to look for, we can figure out the size of the stand it goes on.

1. Check the (actual) size: Remember, when you buy a TV, the size they give you is a diagonal measurement- from one top corner to the opposite bottom corner. This is helpful when comparing different TVs but is less useful when buying a TV stand. Get your tape measure out and measure the overall width of the TV, from left to right. Make sure to include the frame or beveling, too!

Note: For safety purposes, make sure you buy a TV stand that is wider than the actual TV. This will help make sure that you won’t bump into the TV when you walk by it, and prevent accidents and mishaps.

2. Figure out the TV stand height: Generally speaking, the center of your TV screen should be eye-level with the people watching it. Once you figure out what that height should be and then subtract half the height of the actual TV, you’ll know how tall your TV stand should be!

Here’s one way to look at it: let’s say the distance between where you sit in your living room and where the TV will go is 120 inches (10 feet). With this measurement, you can determine a few things:

- Based on the rule of thumb above, you should be looking for a TV that’s roughly in the 75-inch class.

- A 75-inch TV measures 75 inches on the diagonal, but actually measures roughly 65 inches from left to right. Based on this measurement, you should be looking for a TV stand that is at least 72 inches wide- like this rustic TV cabinet. That would allow for 3.5 inches of clearance on either side of the TV. A TV stand that’s 80 inches wide might be even better (7.5 inches of clearance on either side)- for example, this solid wood piece by IFD.

- To figure out the height you should be looking for: the average person’s “eye level” when seated is about 44 inches. To be looking at the center of the above-mentioned 72” TV, the middle of the TV needs to be roughly 18 inches above the stand (since the overall height is roughly 36 inches). 44 minus 18 is 26- you’re going to want to look for a TV stand that is roughly that height, give or take a bit. You’ll also need to adjust these figures if you’re particularly short or tall.

Remember...these are just guidelines! If your room is a different layout, or you prefer to have your TV higher, or closer, or further away...do what’s best for you! Enjoy your new TV!