TV Size Guide: How to Pick the Right Stand, Height, and Placement

Got a new TV and wondering how big everything should be? You’re not alone. Finding the right stand length, mounting height and viewing distance can feel like a puzzle, but it’s actually pretty simple once you know the basics. In this guide we’ll walk through the key numbers you need, so you can set up your screen without any guesswork.

How Wide Should Your TV Stand Be?

The easiest rule of thumb is to choose a stand that’s a little longer than the TV’s width. Aim for a stand that extends at least 2‑3 inches past each side of the screen. This gives you a stable base, avoids a cramped look, and leaves room for speakers or a gaming console.

First, measure the TV’s actual width (not the diagonal). If you have a 65‑inch TV, the screen width is roughly 57 inches. Adding 4‑6 inches total gives you a stand around 62‑64 inches long. If you can’t find an exact match, go a bit wider – it looks better than a tight fit.

Where to Mount Your TV for the Best Height

Eye‑level is the sweet spot. Sit on your couch, look straight ahead, and note where your eyes sit – usually 42‑44 inches from the floor. The center of the screen should line up with that height. For a 55‑inch TV, that often means the bottom of the screen sits about 24‑30 inches off the floor.

If you’re mounting the TV on a wall, measure the distance from the floor to the mounting bracket’s center. For bigger screens like a 65‑inch, you might need to raise the bracket a few inches higher to keep the center at eye level. Don’t forget to leave some clearance for cables and ventilation.

When you can’t reach perfect eye level, keep the tilt angle modest – about 5‑10 degrees downward works for most rooms. Too much tilt can strain your neck and look odd.

Finally, consider the viewing distance. A good rule is to sit about 1.5‑2.5 times the screen’s diagonal. For a 65‑inch TV, that means 8‑10 feet away. Sitting too close makes the picture look pixelated; too far and you miss details.

Putting these tips together – a stand a few inches wider than the TV, mounting the screen at eye level, and leaving enough space to sit back – will give you a clean look and a comfortable viewing experience. No need for fancy calculations, just a tape measure and a little common sense.

Ready to set up your new TV? Grab a friend, measure twice, and enjoy movie night without neck pain. You’ll thank yourself when everything looks just right and you can binge‑watch in comfort.