Shopping for a new piece of living room furniture should be exciting, but when it comes to TV stands, many buyers feel overwhelmed by the number of options available. If you’ve been searching online for what to look for when buying a tv stand, you’re already on the right track.

A TV stand is more than just a table for your television. It plays a major role in the comfort, safety, and organization of your entertainment space. In this guide, we’ll help you understand exactly what to evaluate so you can confidently pick the perfect TV stand or console for your home.

Do I Need a TV Stand?

Not everyone wants or is able to mount their TV on the wall. Renters may be restricted from drilling into walls, and some rooms simply don’t lend themselves well to mounted screens. In these situations, a TV stand becomes an essential part of your entertainment setup.

Even if your TVis mounted, you could still benefit from a stand. Entertainment consoles provide valuable counterspace and storage for media devices, décor, books, and more. The right TV stand helps anchor your room design while keeping everything neat, accessible, and secure.

So, if you plan to place a TV anywhere in your home, a TV stand is almost always a smart investment.

Key Factors to Consider

When evaluating what to look for when buying a TV stand, keep the following core elements in mind:

1. Size
2. Stability and Weight
3. Height
4. Location and placement
5. Aesthetics
6. Storage
7. Cable management
8. Budget

Let’s break each one down.

1. Size Compatibility

Measure Your Television

One of the biggest mistakes buyers make is relying only on the advertised TV size (e.g., 55-inch TV). That number refers to the diagonal screen measurement, not the actual, length, width, or area of the television.

To find the correct TV stand size:

• Use a measuring tape to determine the true width of your TV from frame edge to frame edge.
• Record the actual height, including the base or legs.
• Note the depth if your TV is not a flat screen model.

These real-world dimensions are critical. They ensure your TV won’t hang over the edges and that the stand can physically support it.

Choose a Stand Wider Than Your TV

As a general guideline, your TV stand should be at least 3 inches wider on each side than the television itself. This extra space creates:

• Better visual balance
• Improved stability
• Room for side décor or speakers

For quick reference:

TV Size	Minimum TV Stand Width
50" TV	~45"
55" TV	~50"
65" TV	~60"
75" TV	~70"

 

Always double-check individual product specs and weight limits before finalizing your choice.

2. Stability and Weight Limits

A TV stand must be strong enough to hold the weight of your television and any additional equipment. Manufacturers list maximum capacities for a reason. Exceeding the weight limits can cause bowing shelves, broken glass, or dangerous tip-overs.

Before purchasing:

• Look up your TV’s weight in the manual or online.
• Add the weight of gaming consoles, soundbars, and accessories.
• Ensure the TV stand is rated to handle that total weight comfortably.

If you have children or pets, prioritize stands with a solid frame, wide base, and anti-tip hardware for extra peace of mind.

3. Height Matters

Finding the Right Viewing Level

Another essential aspect of what to look for when buying a TV stand is proper height.

For comfortable viewing:

• The center of the TV screen should be at eye level when seated.
• Average seated eye level is typically around 42-48 inches from the floor.

How to Calculate Ideal TV Stand Height

Use this simple formula:

1. Measure eye level while seated (or use 44" as a standard estimate).
2. Measure the total height of your TV.
3. Divide TV height in half to find the midpoint.
4. Subtract that midpoint from eye level.

Example:

• Eye level: 44"
• TV height: 34" → midpoint = 17"
• 44 – 17 = 27" optimal stand height

Most stands between 24" and 30" tall work well for modern flat screen TVs.

4. Location & Room Layout

Where your stand lives in the room affects both form and function.

Placement tips:

• Don’t place the stand directly in front of windows—this creates glare and poor visibility.
• Try to align the TV with the main seating area.
• Leave enough depth so the stand doesn’t block walkways.

Viewing Distance

Your room layout should allow for an appropriate viewing distance:

• A 55" TV → ideal distance around 8–9 feet
• A 65" TV → about 9–11 feet
• Larger screens can require 12 feet or more

If space is tight, consider corner TV stands or narrower consoles to maximize square footage.

5. Aesthetics – Make It Match

Your TV stand should do more than hold your television. It should enhance your room’s design and help bring the space together. Since the TV is often the focal point of a living room or bedroom, the stand beneath it plays a major role in how intentional the room feels.

Popular TV Stand Styles

TV stands are available in a wide range of design styles, making it easy to find one that fits your space:

• Mid-Century Modern
• Rustic / Farmhouse
• Contemporary Minimalist
• Traditional

Coordinating with Existing Furniture

Your TV stand doesn’t need to perfectly match your other furniture, but it should feel cohesive within the room. Look for similarities in:

• Color tone: Warm woods pair well with warm metals, while cool tones work best with modern finishes.
• Material: Wood, metal, or mixed-material stands should align with nearby furniture pieces.
• Scale: A bulky stand in a minimalist room can feel overwhelming, while a slim stand may feel out of place in a traditionally styled space.

Choosing a TV stand that visually connects with your coffee table, shelving, or sofa legs helps create a balanced interior design.

For homes that prioritize warmth and ambiance, a fireplace TV stand can serve as both a visual focal point and a functional centerpiece. These designs combine the look of a traditional entertainment console with the added comfort of an electric fireplace, making them especially popular in living rooms and bedrooms.

If you’re considering this style, our guide on choosing the right electronic fireplace TV stand for your space goes deeper into sizing, heat output, and placement considerations.

6. Storage Needs

A TV stand does much more than hold your television. It’s one of the main storage hubs in your entertainment space. Before buying, it’s important to think about how you’ll actually use the stand on a daily basis.

When evaluating what to look for when buying a TV stand, storage functionality can be the difference between a clean, organized setup and constant clutter.

Questions to Ask Before Buying

• What devices will I store here?
• Do I need room for gaming consoles or streaming devices?
• Will I store DVDs, books, or décor?
• Do I want items visible or hidden?

Answering these questions helps determine the right combination of shelves, drawers, and cabinets.

Open Shelving

Ideal for:

• Cable boxes and streaming devices
• Gaming consoles
• Soundbars
• Decorative accents
• Easy access and airflow

Open shelves also help prevent overheating for electronics that need ventilation.

Closed Cabinets & Drawers

Best for:

• Hiding cables and clutter
• Storing DVDs, remotes, and accessories
• Keeping electronics dust-free
• Preventing access from children or pets

A mix of open and closed storage often provides the best balance between functionality and appearance.

Ventilation & Access

If you plan to store heat-producing devices, make sure the stand includes:

• Rear cutouts
• Ventilation holes
• Enough space for airflow

These features help protect your electronics and extend their lifespan.

7. Cable Management

Even the most stylish TV stand can look messy without proper cable organization. With multiple devices connected to your TV, cable management should be a priority.

When deciding what to look for when buying a TV stand, built-in cable solutions can dramatically improve both appearance and usability.

Helpful Cable Management Features

Look for stands that include:

• Rear wire holes for routing cables
• Channels or grooves along the back panel
• Clips or ties to keep cords in place
• Space for power strips or surge protectors

These features help hide tangled cords, reduce visual clutter, and make it easier to clean or rearrange your setup.

8. Budget Considerations

Budget plays a major role in any furniture purchase, and TV stands are no exception. The key is knowing where to prioritize your spending.

If you’re working within a tighter budget, focus on the essentials first:

• Correct size for your TV
• Proper weight capacity and stability
• Storage that fits your needs

Value-Focused Material Choices

• Engineered wood offers a solid, budget-friendly option with attractive finishes.
• Metal frames provide durability and a modern look at an affordable price point.
• Mixed-material designs balance cost, style, and strength.

Premium finishes, solid hardwoods, and designer details can always be upgraded later. A well-chosen, affordable TV stand can still deliver excellent performance and style without sacrificing functionality.

Best TV Stands and Media Consoles for 2026

Sasha Modern Reeded Sideboard / TV Stand (2 Sizes)

This reeded sideboard blends bold architectural details with everyday usability. The on-trend arched doors instantly elevate the look, while the reeded inset adds depth and texture that feels straight out of your Instagram saves. Designed to function just as well as a TV stand as it does a dining room buffet, it offers generous hidden storage and built-in cord management to keep your space looking clean and intentional.

Standout Features

• On-trend arched doors create a striking focal point
• Reeded inset adds texture and visual interest
• Warp-resistant MDF with durable laminate for daily use
• Built-in cord management cutout keeps cables organized
• Works seamlessly in modern or transitional spaces
• Ideal for dining storage or media organization

Size Options

• 60"
• 70"

Sasha Modern Reeded Sideboard TV Stand →

Sasha 58" Rattan Sideboard / TV Stand

This rattan-accented sideboard brings an effortless, lived-in feel to any room. The arched rattan door panels add softness and texture, making it a natural fit for boho, modern, or transitional interiors. Whether it’s anchoring your TV or storing everyday essentials, this piece keeps clutter out of sight while maintaining a relaxed, stylish vibe.

Standout Features

• Arched rattan door panels add warmth and visual texture
• Modern transitional design with boho influence
• Warp-resistant MDF with durable laminate construction
• Closed storage hides dishes, books, toys, and media
• Cord management cutout keeps cables neat and discreet
• Versatile enough for dining rooms, living rooms, or family spaces

Sasha 58" Rattan TV Stand →

Reema Arundo Scandinavian Reeded TV Stand (2 Sizes)

This Scandinavian-inspired TV stand blends subtle texture with effortless function. The reeded double doors add visual interest without overwhelming your space, while the low-profile design keeps everything feeling light and intentional. With both open and closed storage, it’s designed to keep tech organized and hidden while letting your décor shine.

Standout Features

• Scandinavian reeded double doors for added texture
• Low-profile silhouette ideal for wall-mounted TVs
• Open cubby plus closed storage for balanced organization
• Two cable management ports keep cords under control
• Warp-resistant MDF with durable laminate finish
• Available in two sizes to fit your space

Size Options

• 58" — Supports TVs up to 65"
• 70" — Supports TVs up to 80"

Reema Arundo Scandinavian Reeded TV Stand →

Maya Modern Curved Wood 70" Sideboard / TV Stand

This modern sideboard earns its spot thanks to its bold curves and elevated material choice. The rounded silhouette immediately sets it apart, while the solid oak wood veneer brings warmth and durability that feels premium in any room. It works just as beautifully under a statement TV as it does anchoring a dining space, proving that standout design and everyday function don’t have to compete.

Standout Features

• Sculptural curved design with a bold, contemporary presence
• Durable solid oak wood veneer adds warmth and longevity
• Soft-close doors keep things quiet and polished
• Adjustable shelves offer flexible hidden storage
• Supports TVs up to 80" for a clean, modern setup

Maya Modern Curved Wood 70" TV Stand →

Harlow Traditional Easy Assembly Glass Door 70" Sideboard / TV Stand

Furniture assembly shouldn’t test your relationship — and this piece proves it. Designed with Walker Edison EZ Assembly™, the Harlow sideboard goes together in as little as 30 minutes while still delivering a refined, high-end look. Glass cabinet doors elevate the design and make it easy to showcase or access everyday essentials, whether it’s games, books, or dishware.

Standout Features

• Walker Edison EZ Assembly™ with lock-together technology
• Assembles in 30 minutes or less
• Glass doors provide a clean, elevated display look
• Durable MDF with scratch-resistant laminate for daily use
• Drawers and shelving maximize storage versatility

Harlow Traditional Easy Assembly Glass Door 70" TV Stand →

Paisley 60" Modern Scalloped Easy Assembly Sideboard / TV Stand

From dinner parties to movie nights, the Paisley sideboard does it all and looks great doing it. Designed with a subtle scalloped edge along the base, this piece adds charm without feeling overly decorative. Its durable build, soft-close doors, and quick EZ Assembly™ make it a practical choice that still brings personality to your space.

Standout Features

• Contemporary transitional design with scalloped edge detail
• Walker Edison EZ Assembly™ — 45 minutes or less
• Durable, warp- and scratch-resistant engineered wood
• Supports TVs up to 70"
• Soft-close doors with spacious closed storage
• Built-in cord management keeps electronics tidy

Paisley 60" Modern Scalloped Easy Assembly TV Stand →

Conclusion

Finding the right TV stand requires evaluating more than just looks. By understanding the key factors like size, height, stability, storage, and placement you will now know exactly what to look for when buying a TV stand.

Take the time to measure carefully and consider how the stand will function in your day-to-day life. With the tips above, you’ll be able to select a stand that delivers comfortable viewing and stylish organization for years to come.