Before buying a TV wall mount, you’ll want to choose a mount style and make sure it matches your TV’s VESA pattern, mounting screw size, and weight requirements. This helps ensure a safe installation and prevents damage to your TV.
Step 1: Choose the mount style you want
Wall mounts come in different styles. The best choice depends on where your TV will be installed and how you plan to watch it.
Fixed mount (most basic)
Keeps the TV close to the wall
No tilt or swivel
Best for TVs mounted at eye level in a main viewing area
(Other common styles include tilting and full-motion mounts—your mount packaging will list what it supports.)
Step 2: Match the mount to your TV’s VESA pattern
After selecting a mount style, confirm the mount supports your TV’s VESA mounting pattern.
What is VESA?
VESA is the standardized distance between the mounting holes on the back of your TV, measured in millimeters (mm) horizontally and vertically.
Example:
VESA 200 × 200 means the mounting holes are 200 mm apart side-to-side and 200 mm apart top-to-bottom.
Tip: Your TV’s VESA pattern is usually listed in the TV’s specifications or a VESA chart (often included in mounting guides).
Step 3: Use the correct mounting screws (important)
Make sure you’re using the correct screw size and length for your TV.
Using screws that are too long can damage internal components.
Damage from incorrect screws is typically not covered under the manufacturer’s warranty.
Most mounting kits include multiple screw sizes and sometimes spacers. Follow the mount instructions, but confirm the screws you choose are the correct size and length for your TV model.
Step 4: Confirm the mount supports your TV’s weight
Check that your TV’s weight does not exceed the wall mount’s maximum weight rating.
Tip: If you’re close to the limit, choose a mount with a higher weight rating for extra safety.
Step 5: Mount the TV (and save your serial number)
Once you’ve confirmed the VESA pattern, screw size, and weight:
Follow the mount manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
It’s recommended to take a photo of the TV’s serial number label on the back of the TV before mounting. This makes it easier to reference later if you ever need warranty service.
Different Styles of Wall Mounts
Fixed mounts are the simplest mounts, providing the least amount of options. With a fixed mount the TV will sit close to the wall and not allow movement or tilt.
Tilt mounts sit a few inches from the wall, allowing the TV to tilt up and down at an angle.
Tilt and swivel or Full motion mounts allow the TV not only to tilt up and down but also angle left and right. These sort of mounts typically extend the TV a few to several inches from the wall.
Mount Screw Holes
Below are the mounting screw hole locations. The example below is a 32 inch TV.
The photo below shows the mounting screw hole location on a 55" TV.
