What TV Bracket Do I Need?

Fixed, tilt or full-motion — choosing the right bracket for your TV and room

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Comparison of three TV bracket types — fixed, tilt and full motion

Choosing the wrong TV bracket is one of the most common mistakes we see. Someone buys a fixed bracket, mounts their TV above the fireplace, then realises they can't tilt it down and the viewing angle is terrible. Or they buy a full-motion arm for a TV that sits perfectly flat on a straight wall — paying three times the price for movement they'll never use.

There are three types of TV bracket, and each one suits a different situation. Here's a straightforward guide based on what actually works, from over 30 years of mounting TVs across Colchester and Essex.

Quick Recommendation

If you're unsure which bracket to choose, go with a tilt bracket. It covers most situations, sits almost as slim as a fixed bracket, and costs very little more. You might not need the tilt adjustment now, but you'll appreciate having the option if you ever rearrange the room or swap to a larger TV.

The Three Bracket Types

Frequently Asked Questions

What VESA pattern is my TV?
Check the back of your TV for four threaded holes arranged in a rectangle or square. Measure the horizontal distance between the holes in millimetres, then the vertical distance. Those two numbers are your VESA pattern — for example, 200mm across and 200mm down gives you VESA 200x200. You can also find it in your TV's manual or spec sheet, usually listed under 'wall mount' or 'VESA compatibility'.
Can I use a full-motion bracket on plasterboard?
Yes, but it needs proper support. Plasterboard alone won't hold the combined weight of a TV and a fully extended arm. The bracket must be fixed into the timber studs behind the board, or a mounting plate needs to be installed to spread the load across multiple studs. For heavier TVs (40kg+), we sometimes mount a treated timber baton across two or three studs first, then fix the bracket to that. Never rely on plasterboard fixings alone for a full-motion bracket.
What's the best bracket for above a fireplace?
A tilting bracket is the best choice for above a fireplace. The extra height means you're looking up at the screen, and a tilt bracket angled 5–15 degrees downward directs the picture towards your seated position. This reduces neck strain and cuts glare from ceiling lights. Full-motion brackets also work if you need to angle the TV towards a seating area that isn't directly in front of the fireplace.
Do I need a special bracket for a large TV (65"+)?
Not necessarily special, but you do need one rated for the size and weight. A 65-inch TV typically weighs 20–30kg and uses a VESA 300x300 or 400x400 pattern. Most brackets sold as 'universal' cover VESA patterns up to 600x400 and weight ratings up to 40–50kg, which handles the majority of 65 to 75-inch TVs. Always check the bracket's maximum weight and VESA specs match your TV — don't just go by screen size alone.

Need Help Choosing a Bracket?

Call Roger on 07860 645446 for a free, no-obligation quote, or use our online form.

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We provide TV wall mounting and home entertainment services within 30 miles of Colchester, including Epping, Loughton, Woodford, Buckhurst Hill, Chingford, Romford, Upminster, Hornchurch, Brentwood, Shenfield and Billericay.

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