Should a TV Stand Be Wider Than the TV? A Guide to Perfect Proportions

While it might seem like a minor issue, this one measurement can influence the safety, style, and symmetry of your entire space. Let’s walk through the rules, exceptions, best practices, and a few fully assembled TV stand recommendations from Povison to help you get it just right.

Why Width Matters: Visual Harmony and Stability

In most situations, yes, your TV stand should be wider than your TV. Here’s why:

• Visual Balance: A stand that’s too narrow makes the TV look awkward and unsupported.
• Safety: A wider base prevents accidental bumps or tipping, especially in homes with kids or pets.
• Functionality: A broader surface provides room for other devices—think soundbars, game consoles, or a streaming box.

If you’re not sure how much wider your TV stand should be, aim for at least 2–6 inches of extra width on each side. For example:

• A 55-inch TV (about 48 inches wide) pairs well with a 52–60 inch TV stand.
• A 65-inch TV (around 57 inches wide) suits a stand that’s about 62–70 inches wide.

This buffer adds both practicality and polish to your space.

Quick TV Size vs TV Stand Width Chart

Use this as a baseline for your decision, and adjust based on your room layout and extra devices.

How to Measure: Don’t Confuse Diagonal with Width

TVs are measured diagonally (corner to corner), but TV stands are measured by horizontal width. Be sure to check your TV’s actual width in inches, not just its model name.

Also consider:

• TV base width: If the legs are near the edges, you need a stand wide enough to support both.
• Depth: Make sure the stand can handle the full footprint of your TV.
• Height: For comfortable viewing, place the center of your screen at eye level, typically 42–48 inches from the floor when seated.

What About Extra Devices?

Don’t forget your soundbar, speakers, game consoles, routers, or streaming boxes. Many Reddit users say they misjudged this space, leading to tangled cables and tight placement.

“We bought a narrow console for our 65-inch TV, and now the soundbar sticks out on both ends. Regret it every day.” – Reddit user

Tip: Leave 3–5 inches between devices and 1–2 inches at the back for airflow.

Easy Formula to Remember

A fast way to find your ideal stand width:

TV actual width + 8–12 inches = Recommended stand width

This gives you 4–6 inches of clearance on both sides for a well-proportioned and safe setup.

Are There Times It’s Okay Not to Match?

Yes—especially if:

• Your TV is wall-mounted: A narrower stand can work, as long as it’s centered and styled appropriately.
• You have built-in shelves or gallery wall decor: The stand doesn’t need to “carry” the entire composition.
• You prefer minimalist or asymmetrical layouts: Just make sure the imbalance looks intentional.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Before buying, avoid these pitfalls:

• Mistaking diagonal size for actual width
• Choosing a stand that doesn’t fit your TV’s feet spacing
• Forgetting about space for other media devices
• Picking a stand too short or too tall for your sofa’s viewing angle
• Buying for looks only—neglecting practical storage or stability

Povison’s fully assembled TV stands are designed to help you avoid all of the above.

Style Tips: Matching Your TV Stand to Your Room

Your TV stand doesn’t just hold your television—it anchors your living room. Here’s how to match by aesthetic:

• Mid-Century Modern: Low-profile, wood tones, tapered legs
• Modern Minimalist: Clean lines, matte surfaces, floating look
• Industrial: Black metal, mixed textures, bold presence
• Scandinavian: Soft wood, open shelves, white or light finish

With Povison, you can browse by style and find options that arrive fully assembled, taking the stress out of styling.

Recommended Picks from Povison

Looking for a ready-to-go setup? These two fully assembled TV stands from Povison combine perfect proportions with standout design:

The Modern TV Stand Solid Wood with Slatted Doors Open Storage Tall Cast Metal Legs brings warmth and elegance with its wood slats and elevated metal legs. Its width supports TVs up to 70 inches with ease.

Prefer a grounded, refined vibe? The Minimalist Solid Rubberwood Lowline TV Stand offers a timeless walnut finish and practical hidden storage—ideal for tech lovers and tidy homes.

Both are part of Povison’s fully assembled furniture collection—zero tools, zero stress, all style.

Final Tips and Where to Shop

Let’s recap:

• Measure your TV’s width, not diagonal
• Add 8–12 inches total for your TV stand width
• Choose a stand at eye level for viewing comfort
• Allow for space around devices and cables
• Pick a style that suits your living space

Explore more at Povison’s TV stand collection—where stylish proportions meet fully assembled convenience. Whether you’re going big with a 75-inch screen or downsizing to fit a studio apartment, Povison has a stand for that, crafted with care, delivered with ease.