Key takeaways
- Choose a TV stand about 4 to 6 inches wider than your TV on each side.
- Keep the center of the screen near seated eye level, about 42 to 48 inches from the floor.
- TV sizes are diagonal: a 65 inch TV is about 57 inches wide.
- Check the weight limit and the space for your TV's feet before you order.
A TV stand should hold your TV safely, look balanced under it and put the screen at a comfortable height. Two measurements do most of the work: the width of your TV and the height of your eyes when you sit. This guide shows how to size a stand for 43 to 85 inch TVs and what else to check before you order.
The quick rules
- Width: choose a stand about 4 to 6 inches wider than the TV on each side.
- Height: keep the center of the screen near seated eye level, about 42 to 48 inches from the floor in most living rooms.
- Weight: the stand's weight limit must be higher than the TV plus anything else on top.
- Feet: if your TV stands on feet instead of a center pedestal, measure the distance between the feet and make sure the top is wide and deep enough.
How wide should a TV stand be?
TV sizes are measured on the diagonal, so a 65 inch TV is not 65 inches wide. Measure your TV from edge to edge, or use the chart below for a standard 16:9 screen, then add 8 to 12 inches in total.
| TV size | Approx. screen width | Suggested stand width |
|---|---|---|
| 43 in | about 37 to 38 in | 46 to 50 in |
| 55 in | about 48 in | 56 to 60 in |
| 65 in | about 57 in | 65 to 69 in |
| 75 in | about 65 in | 73 to 77 in |
| 85 in | about 74 in | 82 to 86 in |
Many stands list the largest TV they can hold, such as "for TVs up to 75 inch". That is a maximum. For the most balanced look, use the width rule above and check the weight limit.
How high should a TV stand be?
Sit where you usually watch and measure from the floor to your eyes. Most people land around 42 to 48 inches on a standard sofa. Subtract half of your TV's height from that number to get a good stand height. With a standard sofa, that usually means a stand about 18 to 24 inches tall; with a low sofa or floor seating, go lower.
Storage, cables and depth
- Closed storage hides routers, game consoles and remotes; open shelves keep devices that need airflow or a clear signal in view.
- Look for cable holes or open backs so wires stay tidy.
- Check the depth of the top for the TV's feet or stand, and make sure the stand doesn't block the walkway in front of your sofa.
- For homes with children or pets, use the anti-tip hardware if it comes with the stand.
Upicko TV stands by size
For 50 to 55 inch TVs:
For 55 to 65 inch TVs:
For 65 to 75 inch TVs:
For 75 to 85 inch TVs:
See all TV stands and media consoles, and plan the rest of the room with our sofa size guide and coffee table size guide.
Shop this guide
Browse our TV Stands & Media Consoles with free standard shipping on US orders.
Frequently asked questions
What size TV stand do I need for a 65 inch TV?
A 65 inch TV is about 57 inches wide, so a stand about 65 to 69 inches wide gives 4 to 6 inches on each side. Also check that the weight limit is higher than your TV's weight.
Should a TV stand be wider than the TV?
Yes. A stand a few inches wider than the TV on each side looks balanced and gives the TV a more stable base.
How tall should a TV stand be?
Aim to put the center of the screen near your eye level when seated, usually about 42 to 48 inches from the floor. With a standard sofa, that often means a stand about 18 to 24 inches tall.
Can a TV be wider than the stand?
Some TVs with a center pedestal can sit on a narrower stand if the maker allows it, but a wider stand is more stable and looks better. Always follow the TV maker's placement instructions.
