Joybuy Insights

Buying a TV Cabinet: How to Compare Sizes, Materials and Storage Properly

A TV cabinet should support your television securely, keep cables organised and complement your living style. In practice, however, unsuitable purchases are often caused not by the design, but by incorrect dimensions, misjudged storage space or unclear weight limits. It is therefore worth comparing the width, depth, material, compartments and safety features carefully before you buy.

Common pitfalls when buying a TV cabinet

1. Measuring only the television’s width

The screen diagonal alone says little about whether a TV unit will look and fit right. What matters is the actual width of the television, including its stand, as well as additional space for speakers, a receiver or decorations.

A 150 cm TV cabinet, for example, is suitable for many medium-sized living areas. If you have an especially wide television or several additional devices, a 170 cm TV cabinet or 180 cm TV cabinet may look more balanced and prove more practical. You should also leave a few centimetres of clearance on either side between the wall and adjoining furniture.

2. Confusing open compartments with storage space

A TV unit with open compartments gives you quick access to games consoles, receivers or books. At the same time, devices, cables and dust remain on show. By contrast, closed sections with doors are suitable for accessories, remote controls and items you do not want permanently visible.

A TV unit with doors is therefore not automatically more practical than an open model. The right combination depends on how many devices you need to connect and whether good ventilation is required.

3. Overlooking weight limits and anti-tip protection

A TV cabinet must support not only the television, but potentially a soundbar or decorative items too. Look for separate specifications showing the maximum load for the top surface and for each individual compartment.

Anti-tip protection is also advisable for taller furniture or homes with children. The unit should stand on a level, non-slip surface and be secured according to the assembly instructions. A TV base cabinet is not designed for sitting, climbing or placing particularly heavy objects on it.

Parameters to check before buying

Dimensions: width, depth and height

First measure the available wall space and take sockets, radiators and walkways into account. TV units are often approximately 35 to 40 cm deep. If you have a deep receiver or games console, check that there is enough room behind the front panel and for the cables.

Height also affects viewing comfort. For a comfortable viewing angle, the centre of the screen should be roughly at eye level from your usual seating position. A low modern lowboard has a discreet appearance, while a taller TV cabinet can provide additional storage space.

Materials and surfaces

A wooden TV cabinet may be made from solid wood, engineered wood or veneered or foil-wrapped panels. These materials differ in weight, appearance, care requirements and price. Engineered wood such as chipboard or fibreboard is identified accordingly in the product specifications and should be protected from moisture.

Easy-care surfaces are practical for everyday use. Aggressive cleaning products can damage coatings or rattan surfaces. A soft, slightly damp cloth is usually sufficient; delicate natural materials should be cleaned dry in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Storage, doors and cable management

Check the number and arrangement of the compartments. A TV unit with storage may combine closed cupboards, drawers and open compartments. Openings at the back are important for Wi-Fi routers and consoles. Built-in cable management makes installation easier, but does not replace adequate ventilation.

Also check the direction in which the doors open and the internal dimensions. A compartment may look spacious from the outside but be restricted inside by back panels or shelves.

Our selection for different homes and usage profiles

Suitable for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
150 cm TV Cabinet – Black Wood Contrast Design with Versatile Storage Space

150 cm TV Cabinet – Black Wood Contrast Design with Versatile Storage Space

Why this product suits the profile: At 150 cm wide, with a combination of closed and open sections, it is suitable for compact to medium-sized living areas.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product specifications state dimensions of 150 × 38 × 55 cm, a maximum load of 50 kg, two closed cupboards and several open compartments.

Main benefit & strengths

Black-and-wood contrast, iron legs and clearly divided storage surfaces.

Suitable for: Buyers with high quality standards
jahnke WAVE TV 170 TV Stand - Montana Oak

jahnke WAVE TV 170 TV Stand - Montana Oak

Why this product suits the profile: This 170 cm model combines a wide top surface with closed compartments, an open compartment and a drawer.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The specifications list six legs, a cable hole, two closed compartments, one open compartment and a drawer. Anti-tip protection should be fitted.

Main benefit & strengths

169.5 cm width, 39.8 cm depth, 54.4 cm height and cable routing at the back.

Suitable for: Boho and retro fans
Beliani Retro Light Wood TV Stand PASCO with Rattan Door

Beliani Retro Light Wood TV Stand PASCO with Rattan Door

Why this product suits the profile: The light wood look, rattan doors and black metal legs add a natural accent to living rooms, bedrooms or home offices.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product data gives dimensions of 120 × 39 × 63 cm, two doors, two storage surfaces, cable routing and a maximum top-surface load of 30 kg.

Main benefit & strengths

Two rattan doors, two open sections and a coated metal frame.

Suitable for: Special uses & frequent users
Walnut effect TV cabinet with 3 sliding doors, retro style 180 cm Pillowbrown

Walnut effect TV cabinet with 3 sliding doors, retro style 180 cm Pillowbrown

Why this product suits the profile: Its 180 cm width and three sliding doors appeal to users looking for a generous front with an understated retro look.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The three sliding doors can provide enclosed storage for small items and cable accessories that would otherwise be left on show. Check the internal dimensions and weight limits before buying.

Main benefit & strengths

180 cm width, walnut effect and three retro-style sliding doors.

Looking for more options?

We have put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the safety regulations applicable in the EU.

Frequently asked questions about TV cabinets

How wide should a TV cabinet be?

Measure the television’s actual width and allow some additional space at the sides. For many living areas, 150 to 180 cm are practical guidelines. The available wall space, the TV stand and the additional devices you want to use remain the key considerations.

How can you position a TV cabinet safely?

Place the unit on a level, stable surface and follow the assembly instructions. For taller models, use the anti-tip protection supplied. Never exceed the stated maximum load, either on the top surface or in individual compartments.

Are open compartments or doors better for devices?

Open compartments provide easier access and can support ventilation. Doors create a tidier appearance, but must leave sufficient clearance around devices and cables. Before choosing a particular TV unit, check the internal dimensions, openings in the back panel and the heat generated by your devices.