Finding the right TV unit can feel overwhelming when you're staring at endless furniture options online or walking through showroom aisles. You've got your shiny new television, but now you need a stand that won't make it look awkwardly perched or swallowed up by an oversized cabinet.
Getting your TV unit size right affects everything from your viewing comfort to how balanced your room looks. A unit that's too small makes your TV appear unstable and top-heavy, while one that's too large can dominate your space and throw off your room's proportions.
This comprehensive TV unit size guide covers the most popular screen sizes—32″, 43″, 55″, and 65″ TVs—with specific recommendations for width, height, and style considerations. Whether you're furnishing a cozy bedroom or designing a spacious living room, you'll learn how to choose TV unit dimensions that create the perfect viewing experience.
Explore our wide collection of TV Units designed for every size and style.
Why TV Unit Size Matters
Viewing Comfort
The right TV unit height positions your screen at eye level when you're seated, preventing neck strain during long movie marathons or binge-watching sessions. When your TV sits too high or too low, you'll find yourself craning your neck or slouching, which becomes uncomfortable quickly.
Room Aesthetics
A well-proportioned TV unit creates visual balance in your space. The ideal TV stand should be wider than your television but not so wide that it overwhelms your wall or room. This balance helps your entertainment setup feel intentional rather than haphazardly placed.
Functionality
Beyond supporting your TV, the right unit provides storage for gaming consoles, streaming devices, cable boxes, and decorative items. Smart sizing ensures you have enough surface area and compartments without the unit becoming the dominant feature in your room.
Once you’ve figured out the right size, you can focus on picking the perfect style for your space. Check out our guide on How to Choose the Perfect TV Unit for Your Living Room.
How to Measure Your TV and Space
TV Screen Size vs. Width
Here's something many people don't realize: a 55″ TV doesn't measure 55 inches wide. That measurement refers to the diagonal screen size from corner to corner. The actual width of a 55″ TV is typically around 48 inches, which is crucial information when selecting your stand.
Measuring Your Space
Start by measuring the wall width where your TV unit will sit. Consider the space between other furniture pieces, windows, and architectural features. You'll want at least 6-8 inches of clearance on each side of your unit for visual breathing room.
Factor in Practical Elements
Don't forget to account for doorways and hallways when considering larger units—you need to actually get the furniture into your room. Also, note the locations of electrical outlets and cable connections, as these will influence your unit's positioning.
Recommended TV Unit Sizes for Different TVs
TV Unit Size for 32″ TV
For a 32-inch television, look for a TV unit between 38″ and 48″ wide. This range provides visual balance without overwhelming the TV itself. The best TV unit for 32 inch TV typically measures around 42 inches wide, giving you 5 inches of extra width on each side.
Height considerations: Position the center of your 32″ TV at about 42 inches from the floor, which puts it at comfortable eye level for most seating arrangements.
Best spaces: A 32″ setup works perfectly in bedrooms, home offices, or smaller living areas where space is at a premium. Consider a TV cabinet for 32 inch TV with built-in storage to maximize functionality in compact rooms.
TV Unit Size for 43″ TV
A 43-inch TV pairs well with a TV stand between 50″ and 60″ wide. This size hits the sweet spot for medium bedrooms and smaller living rooms, offering enough presence without dominating the space.
The TV stand for 43 inch TV should provide stable support while leaving room for a few decorative items or small devices on either side. If floor space is limited, consider a tall TV unit for bedroom use—these vertical designs offer ample storage while maintaining a smaller footprint.
Viewing setup: Maintain the same 42-inch height rule for comfortable viewing, and ensure you're sitting about 5-7 feet away from the screen for optimal picture quality.
TV Unit Size for 55″ TV
The popular 55-inch TV size requires a unit measuring 63″ to 75″ wide for proper proportion. This is where your TV cabinet for 55 inch TV becomes a significant furniture piece that can anchor your living room design.
With a 55″ TV, you have more flexibility in unit styles. Consider options with open shelving for displaying books and décor, or closed cabinets for hiding clutter. The extra width accommodates multiple devices, gaming consoles, and sound system components.
Room requirements: This size works best in medium to large living rooms where you can sit 6-9 feet away from the screen for comfortable viewing.
TV Unit Size for 65″ TV
Large 65-inch TVs need substantial support, requiring a TV console between 70″ and 85″ wide. Your TV console for 65 inch TV becomes a major design statement, so choose something that complements your existing furniture style.
Space planning: Ensure you have adequate wall space—at least 90 inches of clear wall width to accommodate the unit plus visual breathing room. A low, wide console works best for cinematic viewing, positioning the large screen at an ideal height while providing extensive storage.
Viewing distance: Plan to sit 8-12 feet away from a 65″ TV for the most comfortable viewing experience.
TV Unit Height and Viewing Distance Guide
The viewing distance rule varies depending on your TV's resolution. For HD televisions, sit approximately 1.5 times the screen size away (a 55″ TV means sitting about 7 feet back). For 4K TVs, you can sit closer—about 1 times the screen size—due to the higher resolution.
Recommended Viewing Distances:
- 32″ TV: 4-5 feet away
- 43″ TV: 5-7 feet away
- 55″ TV: 7-9 feet away
- 65″ TV: 8-12 feet away
For height, the center of your TV screen should sit at eye level when you're in your normal viewing position. This typically means the center of the screen sits 40-43 inches from the floor, depending on your seating height.
TV Unit Styles to Consider
Floating Wall-Mounted Units
These create a clean, modern look while saving floor space. Floating units work particularly well in bedrooms or smaller spaces where you want to maintain an open feel.
Tall TV Units for Bedroom
Vertical storage maximizes space efficiency in bedrooms where floor space is limited. A tall TV unit for bedroom use typically includes drawers for clothing or linens alongside media storage.
Corner TV Units
Perfect for awkward room layouts or when you want to maximize seating arrangements. Corner units can make efficient use of otherwise wasted space.
Entertainment Centers
These full-wall units provide maximum storage and create a built-in look. They work well in larger living rooms where the TV setup serves as the room's focal point.
Additional Tips for Choosing the Right TV Unit
Match Your Existing Style
Your ideal TV stand dimensions should complement your room's existing furniture. A sleek, minimalist TV might look odd on an ornate traditional cabinet, while a rustic wooden unit might clash with ultra-modern décor.
Choose Durable Materials
Solid wood offers longevity and style, while engineered wood provides budget-friendly durability. Metal frames add industrial appeal and can support heavier TVs with ease.
Plan for Cable Management
Look for units with built-in cable management systems or rear access panels. Nothing ruins a clean entertainment setup like a tangle of visible cords.
Allow for Future Upgrades
Consider buying a slightly larger unit than your current TV requires. This gives you flexibility if you decide to upgrade to a bigger screen later without needing to replace your furniture.
Make the Right Choice for Your Space
Selecting the perfect TV unit size transforms your viewing experience and room aesthetics. Remember that the ideal unit should be 10-15 inches wider than your TV, positioned at comfortable eye level, and proportional to your room size.
Take time to measure both your TV and your space carefully before making a purchase. Consider your storage needs, room layout, and future upgrade plans. The right TV unit becomes more than furniture—it creates the foundation for countless hours of entertainment and relaxation.
Ready to find your perfect match? Explore our wide collection of TV units designed for every TV size and room style, from compact bedroom solutions to spacious living room entertainment centers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size TV stand is best for a 55-inch TV?
Look for TV units between 63″ and 75″ wide for proper balance and stability. This range ensures your 55-inch TV doesn't appear top-heavy while providing space for additional devices and décor.
Can I use a 43-inch TV on a 55-inch stand?
Yes, but ensure the stand isn't too deep or high for comfortable viewing. The extra width can actually provide more surface area for storage and decorative items, though the proportions may look slightly off.
What's the best TV unit for a small bedroom?
A tall TV unit for bedroom use or a wall-mounted floating unit saves precious floor space. Look for vertical storage options that maximize functionality without overwhelming the room.
How do I know if my TV unit is the right height?
When seated in your normal viewing position, the center of your TV screen should be at eye level. This typically places the screen center 40-43 inches from the floor, depending on your furniture height.