TV Mounting Height Calculator

Eye level mounting (or slightly below) is generally recommended by visual ergonomics experts for comfortable viewing over extended periods. This position minimizes neck strain and follows the natural resting position of your gaze when seated.

However, there are exceptions. In bedrooms where you primarily watch while lying down, a higher mounting position may be more comfortable. In public spaces or sports bars where viewers are often standing, TVs are typically mounted higher. The calculator provides an optimal starting point based on ergonomic principles, but you should adjust based on your specific viewing habits and room constraints.

This perception is common and occurs for several reasons. First, most TV stands position the bottom of the TV about 25-30 inches from the floor, while wall mounting often places the TV higher. Second, without the visual anchor of a TV stand beneath it, a wall-mounted TV can appear to "float" higher than it actually is. Third, the empty wall space beneath a mounted TV creates a visual impression of height. If you're transitioning from a stand to wall mounting, measure your previous setup's center height and use that as a reference point for your new installation if it was comfortable.

Mounting a TV above a fireplace typically places it higher than the ergonomically ideal position. This often results in viewers tilting their heads back to watch, which can cause neck strain during extended viewing. If you must mount above a fireplace, consider using a mantel mount or pull-down mount that allows you to lower the TV to a more comfortable viewing position when in use. Also, ensure the fireplace doesn't generate excessive heat that could damage the TV. If possible, consider alternative locations that allow for more ergonomic positioning.

Yes, viewing distance does affect the ideal mounting height. As viewing distance increases, the optimal height of the TV center can increase slightly while still maintaining a comfortable viewing angle. This is because at greater distances, the vertical angle to the TV becomes less acute. However, the change is not dramatic—even at longer distances, keeping the TV center near eye level (or up to 15 degrees above) remains the most comfortable position. The calculator accounts for this relationship between distance and optimal height.

For reclining seating, you should mount the TV slightly higher than the calculator suggests. Measure your eye height while in the reclined position (which will be higher than when sitting upright) and use this measurement in the calculator. Additionally, consider a tilting mount that allows you to angle the TV downward toward the reclined viewing position. As a general rule, if you split your time between upright and reclined viewing, aim for a height that works reasonably well for both positions rather than optimizing for just one.

There are several types of TV mounts, each with different benefits:

• Fixed mounts: Simplest and thinnest profile, but no adjustment options
• Tilting mounts: Allow vertical angle adjustment, good for reducing glare or when mounting higher
• Full-motion/articulating mounts: Offer maximum flexibility with extension, swivel, and tilt options
• Pull-down mounts: Specialized for over-fireplace installations, allowing temporary lowering of the TV

Your choice should depend on your viewing needs, room layout, and whether you need to adjust the TV position for different viewing situations. For most standard installations at the height recommended by the calculator, a tilting mount offers a good balance of simplicity and adjustability.

Ensuring your wall can support your TV involves these key steps:

• Identify your wall type (drywall, plaster, concrete, brick)
• Locate wall studs (for drywall) using a stud finder
• Ensure the mount is rated for your TV's weight (plus a margin of safety)
• Use appropriate anchors for your wall type
• For drywall, mount into studs whenever possible
• Use a level to ensure the mount is perfectly horizontal
• Follow the mount manufacturer's installation instructions precisely

If you're uncertain about wall strength or your installation skills, consult a professional installer, especially for large TVs over 55 inches or when mounting to challenging surfaces.

There are several options for hiding cables when wall mounting a TV:

• In-wall cable management kits: Allow you to run cables inside the wall for a completely hidden installation (check local building codes first)
• Cable raceways/covers: Surface-mounted channels that can be painted to match your wall
• Cable sleeves: Flexible fabric tubes that bundle cables together
• Cord-hiding furniture: Media consoles designed to conceal cables
• Behind-TV outlets: Special electrical and low-voltage outlets installed behind the TV

For the cleanest look, consider an in-wall solution, but ensure any high-voltage power cables are run according to local electrical codes, possibly requiring a licensed electrician.