Mounting a TV on the wall is a great way to save space, enhance your room’s aesthetics, and create a comfortable viewing experience.
With all the live sports on TV, whether it be streamed or on satellite – you want your TV to be mounted in a view that prevents glaring and gives your living room that cinematic feel.
However, one of the most common questions people face when mounting a TV is: how high should it be? The height at which you mount your TV can make a significant difference in both comfort and viewing quality.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the factors to consider when determining the optimal TV mounting height.
Why TV Mounting Height Matters
The height at which your TV is mounted directly affects your viewing comfort. If the TV is too high or too low, it can cause neck strain and make for an unpleasant viewing experience. Additionally, mounting your TV at the wrong height can result in poor picture quality, especially on larger screens, where angles can distort the image. To avoid these issues, it’s important to consider several factors when determining the best height for your TV.
Factors to Consider for Optimal TV Mounting Height
1. Eye Level
The general rule of thumb for TV mounting height is to align the centre of the screen with your eye level when seated. For most people, this means the centre of the TV should be approximately 100-110 cm (40-43 inches) from the floor. This height allows for comfortable viewing without straining your neck or eyes.
2. Viewing Distance
The distance between your seating area and the TV also plays a crucial role in determining the mounting height. Ideally, the centre of the TV screen should be at or just below eye level when seated. If you’re sitting closer to the TV, the screen should be slightly lower. Conversely, if you’re sitting further away, you may need to mount the TV slightly higher to maintain an optimal viewing angle.
Here’s a quick reference for recommended viewing distances based on TV size:
- 32-inch TV: 1.2 to 1.5 metres (4-5 feet)
- 40-43-inch TV: 1.5 to 2.5 metres (5-8 feet)
- 50-55-inch TV: 2 to 3 metres (6-10 feet)
- 60-65-inch TV: 2.5 to 4 metres (8-13 feet)
- 70-inch and larger TVs: 3 to 5 metres (10-16 feet)
3. Room Layout
The layout of your room, including furniture placement and the height of your seating, will influence the optimal TV mounting height. If you have a low-profile sofa, you may want to mount the TV lower to ensure it aligns with your eye level. Conversely, if you have high-backed chairs or a raised seating area, the TV may need to be mounted higher.
4. TV Size
Larger TVs require different mounting heights compared to smaller ones. For example, a 65-inch TV mounted too high can result in a less-than-ideal viewing angle, causing you to look up at the screen, which can lead to neck strain. The size of the TV affects how high the top and bottom of the screen will be, so it’s important to consider this when choosing your mounting height.
5. Viewing Angle
The optimal viewing angle for a TV is straight on or slightly downward. Tilting the TV mount downwards can help achieve a more comfortable viewing angle if the TV needs to be mounted higher, such as above a fireplace. However, be cautious with tilting, as it can sometimes distort the picture, especially with LED or LCD screens.
6. Special Situations: Mounting Above a Fireplace
Mounting a TV above a fireplace is a common choice, but it requires careful consideration. Due to the height of most fireplaces, the TV may end up mounted higher than the ideal viewing height. In these cases, you may need to use a tilting mount to angle the TV downward, bringing the screen more in line with your eye level. Additionally, consider the distance between the fireplace and the seating area; the further back you sit, the less noticeable the height discrepancy will be.
How to Measure for Optimal TV Height
To find the best height for your TV, follow these steps:
- Measure Your Eye Level: Sit in your usual viewing spot and measure the height from the floor to your eyes.
- Determine the Centre of the TV: Find the centre point of your TV by measuring the height of the screen and dividing by two.
- Position the TV: Ideally, the centre of the TV should be at or slightly below your eye level. Mark this height on the wall as a reference for mounting.
- Adjust for Viewing Distance: Consider your viewing distance and adjust the mounting height if necessary. If you’re sitting further away, you may need to mount the TV slightly higher.
- Test and Adjust: Before finalising the mount, it can be helpful to temporarily position the TV at the intended height and sit in your usual spot to check the comfort and viewing angle. Make any necessary adjustments before securing the mount.
Final Thoughts
Mounting your TV at the right height is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable viewing experience. By considering factors like eye level, viewing distance, room layout, and TV size, you can determine the optimal height for your setup. Whether you’re mounting the TV in your living room, bedroom, or even above a fireplace, following these guidelines will help you achieve the best possible result.
Taking the time to mount your TV correctly will not only enhance your viewing experience but also protect your neck and eyes from unnecessary strain. So, grab your tape measure, mark your wall, and get ready to enjoy TV viewing at its finest!
