How to wall mount a TV
If you've recently purchased a new TV or are planning to take advantage of the huge TV deals available right now ahead of the Prime Big Deal Days sale, you may be wondering how to mount it. Mounting a TV on your wall can help you save space as you won't need a large TV stand or entertainment center taking up space. Mounted TVs also look nice, especially is you have a TV like Samsung's 'The Frame' that doubles as an art piece.
- Related: How we pick our products
Keep reading to find out how to mount a TV and to explore some of our favorite TV mounts.
The best wall mounts for TVs
The most important thing you'll need to mount your TV is a good wall mount. We've compiled several top-rated options below to help you choose one. In addition, you'll need a stud finder, power drill, level, tape measure, screwdriver and mounting hardware.
Samsung slim fit wall mount
The Samsung slim fit wall mount is a sleek minimalist option that positions your TV flush with the wall. With this mount your Samsung TV sit extra tightly against the wall, leaving only a minuscule gap between the TV and the wall. It is designed for use with Samsung TVs.
"The quality, ergonomics, sleekness, and beauty are hands down the best available. My family will never shop outside of the Samsung line again. The TV lineup is outstanding! The mounting was easy and quick, with excellent detailed instructions." shared one reviewer that used this mount with a Samsung TV.
Why we like the Samsung slim fit wall mount:
- It doesn't leave a noticeable gap between the TV and the wall, which gives your mounted TV a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.
- It can be used to mount popular Samsung smart TVs.
- Reviewers report that it is easy to use.
Echogear wall mount for large TVs
If you have a bigger TV and want a full-motion wall mount, this Echogear wall mount may be for you. It can support TVs up to 90 inches. The full motion capabilities allow the TV to swivel, tilt, rotate and more when attached to this mount. It has an impressive 4.8-star rating on Amazon with over 17,000 reviews.
"As a first-time wall mount user, I was a bit hesitant, but this product exceeded my expectations," says one Amazon reviewer. "It effortlessly supports my 65-inch LG TV, and the full motion capabilities, including smooth swivel and tilt, provide the perfect viewing angle from anywhere in the room."
The wall mount has a list price of $130, but it is currently on sale on Amazon for $110.
Why we like the Echogear wall mount for large TVs:
- Reviewers report that it is easy to install.
- The wall mount works with a wide range of TVs across different brands and sizes.
- It has earned an impressive 4.8 star rating with over 17,000 reviews on Amazon.
Sanus tilting wall mount
This highly-rated wall mount tilts to allow viewers to adjust the TV to different angles. This can provide a better viewing experience. It can be used with TVs sized 32 inches all the way up to 85 inches. The mount is easy to install and features TV brackets that snap into place on the wall plate for added security.
"This product securely mounted my TV to the living room wall with minimal clearance between the screen and the wall," says one Walmart reviewer. "The mount allows the TV to angle up and down to access the back for wiring changes. It's worth every penny I paid for it!"
The wall mount is on sale now at Walmart for $120 (regularly $160).
Why we like the Echogear wall mount for large TVs:
- It works with an incredibly wide range of TV sizes.
- The mount comes with a 10 year limited warranty.
- It has gained positive reviews from Walmart reviewers for the ease of setup.
Best Buy Essentials TV wall mount
This budget-friendly Best Buy Essentials TV wall mount is a full motion wall mount, which means that you can swivel, tilt and rotate your TV to position it to your preferred viewing angle. It has a 4.6-star review with over 2,600 reviews, many of which praise the mount for being easy-to-install. This wall mount can be used with TVs ranging from 47 inches to 84 inches.
"This product is indeed worth 5 stars," says one reviewer. "It's sturdy, adjustable and easy to install by yourself. The instructions and template are clear to understand and the best thing about this product is the price! Most full motion mounts cost over $100 dollars!"
The wall mount retails for just $60 at Best Buy.
Why we like the Best Buy Essentials TV mount:
- The mount comes with easy-to-follow instructions.
- The wall mount has earned a 4.7-star rating with over 3,900 reviews.
- It offers full motion capabilities at a low price point.
How to mount your TV
Follow our step-by-step guide below to mount your new TV on a wall.
1. Choose your desired location
Decide where you would like to mount your TV. Choose a location with easy access to power outlets and cable input sources. You'll also want to consider you're desired viewing angle based on your room layout and where the sun will hit during the day. It's best not to position TVs in direct sunlight.
2. Use a stud finder to locate the walls studs
The stud finder will help you locate the studs in your wall. You'll need to screw you mounting hardware into these studs to secure your mount and TV. Use a pencil or painter's tape to mark where the studs are.
3. Make and drill your pilot holes
Pilot holes are small holes that will allow your screw to go into the wall when mounting. Pre-drilling these holes allows you to use less force on the mounting screws. Before you drill, mark your pilot holes and use a level tool to make sure that they are even.
4. Attach your wall mount to the wall
It's helpful to have a friend or family member assist you for this step. You'll need to hold up the wall mount to the wall and drill the screws into the pilot holes that you made in the previous step. Once it's attached, use a level again to verify that it's straight before you try to attach your TV.
5. Attach the mounting plate to your TV
Find the mounting plate attachment holes on the back of your TV and then attach the mounting plate to your TV with the included hardware. This process can vary slightly depending on whether you have a fixed mount or rotating/full motion mount. Be sure to read the instructions that came with your mount.
6. Mount the TV to the wall
Line the mounting plate on the TV up with the bracket that you secured to the wall and then connect them. TVs can be quite heavy, so you may need another person to help you. Make sure that the connection is secure and that your TV is tightly held in place.
Then you're done! Now it's time to sit back and enjoy your new TV.
