Can You Mount Any TV?

person mounting tv on a wall

This article will let you know whether or not you can mount your TV on the wall. 

It’s essential to understand that not all TVs are designed for wall mounting. Most modern TVs can be wall-mounted, but mounting older or larger models may be more challenging. 

Are you wondering if your TV can be mounted or not? Follow this step-by-step guide to get answers to all questions.

Some Types of TVs Can’t Be Mounted

Most flat-screen TVs, such as LED, OLED, and LCD models, are designed to be mounted. Older models, such as Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) TVs, are generally not suitable for wall mounting due to their bulkiness. All TVs, including CRT models, can be placed on a piece of furniture. However, only flat-screen TVs are designed to be mounted on the wall. 

Due to the weight of older models, there is a risk of the mount failing. In addition, ensure that the wall structure can support the weight of the TV and mount, especially when mounting on materials like drywall without studs. 

Read: How to Mount a TV on a Wall Without Studs

Check if Your TV Manufacturer Follows VESA Standards

The back of a TV showing the spacing between mounting holes (100 millimeters)
Photo Credit: UlrichHeither / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0

VESA stands for Video Electronics Standards Association. It’s an international standard that defines the spacing between the mounting holes on the back of the TV. Most flat-screen TV brands follow the VESA mounting pattern, which includes four screw holes, in which two at the top and two at the bottom. Knowing your TV’s VESA size is important when picking the right wall mount bracket to make sure it fits securely.

If your TV is VESA compliant, these holes are used to attach a VESA-compatible mounting bracket. For instance, if your TV has a VESA mount compatibility of 400×400, it means the screw holes are 400mm apart both horizontally and vertically.

How to Find Your TV’s VESA Compatibility

  • Look for four mounting holes that appear ready for screws or bolts at the back of your TV. Using a tape measure, evaluate the horizontal and vertical distances between these holes in millimeters. 
  • You can also check your TV’s user manual or visit the manufacturer’s website using your TV’s model number to find the VESA specifications.

Weight and Compatibility Considerations

a man installing brackets and tightening bolts
Photo Credit: Naypong Studio / Adobe Stock Free / License

Weight limit is a key factor in determining if your television can be safely mounted. Check the weight limits specified by the mount manufacturer for the TV on which it is being mounted. Different mounts are designed to hold different weights.

Exceeding the mount’s specified weight capacity can lead to dangerous situations. For example, full-motion mounts often have stricter weight limits due to the additional stress placed on the mount when the TV is extended or swiveled. Similarly, tilting mounts also require careful weight consideration to ensure stability while offering the convenience of adjusting the viewing angle.

See Related: Types of TV Wall Mounts

If you’re keeping an existing mount on the wall and buying a new TV, be sure the mount can support the new TV’s weight. This information can usually be found in the product specifications or user manual. 

Even though most TV wall mounts are universal, older models may only fit some TVs. 

Read more: Are TV Mounts Universal?

Additional Reading:

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Main Image Credit: Brastock Images / Adobe Stock Free / License

Rahul Sattineni

Rahul holds a bachelor's degree in Electronics Engineering and is a passionate writer. He loves to help people make informed decisions regarding home improvement services. When Rahul isn't writing, he enjoys listening to music, spending time with his family, and partaking in outdoor activities.