Best Full Motion TV Mounts: Expert Buying Guide

Introduction

Are you looking to maximize your viewing experience and free up space in your living room? A full motion TV mount might be the perfect solution. These mounts offer unparalleled flexibility, allowing you to tilt, swivel, and extend your TV for the optimal viewing angle from anywhere in the room. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the world of full motion TV mounts, covering everything from their benefits and features to installation tips and the best models on the market.

What is a Full Motion TV Mount?

A full motion TV mount, also known as a swivel or articulating mount, is a type of mounting bracket that allows you to move your TV in multiple directions. Unlike fixed or tilting mounts, full motion mounts offer a wide range of motion, including:

• Swiveling: Rotate the TV left or right.
• Tilting: Angle the TV up or down.
• Extending: Pull the TV away from the wall.
• Retracting: Push the TV back towards the wall.

This flexibility makes full motion mounts ideal for rooms with multiple seating areas, unconventional layouts, or glare issues.

Benefits of Full Motion TV Mounts

Enhanced Viewing Experience

The primary benefit of a full motion mount is the ability to customize your viewing angle. Whether you're watching from the couch, the kitchen, or even the dining table, you can easily adjust the TV for the best picture quality. In our experience, this flexibility significantly improves the overall viewing experience.

Space Saving

Mounting your TV on the wall instantly frees up floor space, creating a cleaner and more organized living area. Full motion mounts take this a step further by allowing you to push the TV flush against the wall when not in use, maximizing space savings. — Buy Bitcoin On Binance: A Beginner's Guide

Reduced Glare

Glare from windows or lighting can be a major annoyance when watching TV. With a full motion mount, you can easily tilt or swivel the screen to minimize glare and ensure a clear picture. Our analysis shows that adjusting the TV angle by just a few degrees can make a significant difference in reducing glare.

Improved Accessibility

Full motion mounts make it easier to access the back of your TV for cable management or connecting devices. No more struggling to reach around the TV – simply extend it away from the wall for easy access. This is particularly useful when adding new devices or re-routing cables.

Types of Full Motion TV Mounts

Single Arm Mounts

Single arm mounts are ideal for smaller TVs (typically up to 55 inches) and lighter loads. They feature a single arm that extends from the wall plate to the TV, providing a good range of motion. These mounts are generally more affordable than dual arm models.

Dual Arm Mounts

Dual arm mounts offer greater stability and weight capacity, making them suitable for larger TVs (55 inches and up) and heavier loads. The dual arm design provides a more balanced and secure hold, reducing the risk of sagging or tilting. In our testing, dual arm mounts consistently outperformed single arm models in terms of stability and durability.

Ultra-Slim Mounts

For a sleek and low-profile look, consider an ultra-slim full motion mount. These mounts are designed to sit close to the wall when retracted, minimizing the gap between the TV and the wall. They are a great choice for modern interiors where aesthetics are a priority.

Choosing the Right Full Motion TV Mount

TV Size and Weight

The first step in choosing a full motion mount is to determine the size and weight of your TV. Check the TV's specifications (either in the manual or online) to find this information. Make sure the mount you choose is rated to support both the size and weight of your TV.

VESA Compatibility

VESA (Video Electronics Standards Association) is a standard that defines the mounting hole pattern on the back of TVs. Measure the horizontal and vertical distance between the mounting holes on your TV and compare them to the VESA specifications of the mount. Most mounts support a range of VESA patterns, but it's crucial to ensure compatibility.

Range of Motion

Consider the range of motion you need from the mount. How far do you want to swivel, tilt, or extend the TV? Think about your room layout and viewing habits to determine the optimal range of motion. For example, if you have a wide room with multiple seating areas, you'll need a mount with a wide swivel range.

Weight Capacity

Always choose a mount with a weight capacity that exceeds the weight of your TV. This provides a safety margin and ensures the mount can handle the load without straining. We recommend choosing a mount with a weight capacity at least 20% higher than your TV's weight.

Build Quality and Materials

Look for mounts made from high-quality materials such as steel. The construction should be solid and sturdy, with smooth and reliable joints. A well-built mount will last for years and provide a secure hold for your TV.

Cable Management

Full motion mounts often include cable management features such as channels or clips to keep your cables organized and out of sight. This is an important consideration for a clean and professional-looking installation. Cluttered cables can detract from the overall appearance and pose a safety hazard.

Installation Tips

Gather Your Tools

Before you start the installation, gather all the necessary tools. You'll typically need:

• A stud finder
• A drill
• A level
• A screwdriver
• A measuring tape
• A pencil

Having the right tools on hand will make the installation process much smoother and more efficient.

Locate Wall Studs

It's crucial to mount the TV bracket to wall studs for a secure hold. Use a stud finder to locate the studs behind your wall. Mark the stud locations with a pencil. Never mount a TV mount directly to drywall without using wall studs, as it will not be secure enough to support the weight of the TV. — Contacting Wall Street: Find Key Phone Numbers & Contacts

Attach the Mounting Plate

Align the mounting plate with the marked stud locations and attach it to the wall using lag bolts. Use a level to ensure the plate is perfectly horizontal. A level mounting plate is essential for the TV to sit straight.

Attach Brackets to the TV

Attach the mounting brackets to the back of your TV using the screws provided with the mount. Refer to the TV's manual for the correct screw size and length. Ensure the brackets are securely attached to the TV's VESA mounting holes.

Hang the TV on the Mount

Carefully lift the TV and hang it onto the mounting plate. Secure the TV to the mount according to the manufacturer's instructions. This step often requires two people, especially for larger TVs.

Manage Cables

Run the cables through the cable management system provided with the mount. This will help keep your cables organized and prevent them from dangling behind the TV. Proper cable management is crucial for a clean and professional look.

Top Full Motion TV Mounts

Sanus Advanced Full-Motion TV Mount

The Sanus Advanced Full-Motion TV Mount is a top-rated option known for its smooth motion and sturdy construction. It supports TVs up to 85 inches and features a wide range of motion. Sanus is a recognized industry leader in TV mounting solutions.

Mount-It! Full Motion TV Wall Mount

The Mount-It! Full Motion TV Wall Mount offers excellent value for its price. It supports TVs up to 65 inches and provides a good range of motion. It's a popular choice for those looking for a budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality.

Echogear Full Motion TV Wall Mount

The Echogear Full Motion TV Wall Mount is a versatile option that supports TVs up to 70 inches. It features a smooth swivel and tilt mechanism and includes a comprehensive installation kit. Echogear is known for its user-friendly designs and clear instructions.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Sagging or Tilting

If your TV is sagging or tilting, it could be due to an overloaded mount or loose hardware. Double-check the weight capacity of the mount and tighten all bolts and screws. If the issue persists, consider upgrading to a mount with a higher weight capacity.

Limited Range of Motion

If you're not getting the full range of motion you expected, make sure there are no obstructions preventing the mount from moving freely. Check for cables or other objects that might be interfering with the movement. You may need to re-route cables or adjust the mount's position.

Difficulty Installing

If you're having trouble with the installation, don't hesitate to seek professional help. A professional installer can ensure the mount is installed correctly and safely. Improper installation can lead to serious damage or injury.

FAQ

1. What is the difference between a full motion mount and a tilting mount?

A full motion mount allows you to swivel, tilt, and extend your TV, while a tilting mount only allows you to tilt the TV up or down. Full motion mounts offer much greater flexibility in terms of viewing angles.

2. How do I know if a full motion mount is compatible with my TV?

Check the VESA specifications of your TV and the mount. The mount should support the VESA pattern on the back of your TV. Also, ensure the mount's weight capacity and size range are suitable for your TV.

3. Can I install a full motion TV mount on drywall?

No, you should never install a full motion TV mount directly on drywall without using wall studs. Drywall is not strong enough to support the weight of the TV and mount. Always mount the bracket to wall studs for a secure hold.

4. How much weight can a full motion TV mount hold?

The weight capacity of a full motion TV mount varies depending on the model. Check the manufacturer's specifications to determine the weight capacity. Always choose a mount with a weight capacity that exceeds the weight of your TV.

5. Are full motion TV mounts suitable for all TV sizes?

Full motion TV mounts are available for a wide range of TV sizes, from small to extra-large. However, larger TVs require more robust mounts with higher weight capacities. Choose a mount that is specifically designed for your TV size.

6. How do I manage cables with a full motion TV mount?

Many full motion TV mounts come with cable management features such as channels or clips. Use these features to keep your cables organized and out of sight. You can also use cable ties or sleeves to bundle the cables together. — USAA Contact Number: Get Help Quickly

7. Where can I buy a full motion TV mount?

You can buy full motion TV mounts from a variety of retailers, including online stores, electronics stores, and home improvement stores. Some popular retailers include Amazon, Best Buy, and Home Depot.

Conclusion

A full motion TV mount is a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to enhance their viewing experience and maximize space. With the ability to swivel, tilt, and extend your TV, you can achieve the perfect viewing angle from any seat in the room. By considering factors such as TV size, weight, VESA compatibility, and range of motion, you can choose the right mount for your needs. Remember to follow the installation tips and seek professional help if needed. With the right mount and proper installation, you'll be enjoying your TV in a whole new way.