Joybuy Insights

Choosing a TV Stand: How to Compare Size, Storage and Materials Properly

A TV stand should support your television securely, accommodate media devices and keep cables as discreet as possible. In practice, however, poor purchases are often caused not by the design, but by missing information about load capacity, dimensions and assembly. If you choose based solely on colour or fronts, you may later find that your games console does not fit in the compartment, there is no designated place for the remote control or the furniture looks too bulky in the room.

This guide explains what individuals and families in Germany should consider when buying a TV lowboard, TV cabinet or other TV furniture.

Common TV Stand Buying Traps

1. The television’s width is underestimated

The screen diagonal alone tells you little about whether a TV stand will fit. The actual width of the device, including its feet, is what matters. A 140 cm TV stand, for example, provides 140 cm of usable surface area, but also needs some additional clearance from walls or other furniture.

Before buying, you should check:

  • The television’s width and depth, including the stand
  • The position of the feet
  • The distance from sockets and the wall
  • The clearance needed for drawers or doors to open
  • The possible load limit of the top surface

A lowboard for televisions should not only be wide enough visually. The surface must also suit the position of the feet and the weight distribution of the device.

2. Enclosed storage does not automatically prevent cable clutter

TV furniture with doors and drawers can keep accessories out of sight. However, if there are no cable access holes or the compartments are not deep enough, connections can be difficult to reach. Some air circulation is also advisable for games consoles, receivers and streaming devices.

Look out for:

  • Cable openings at the back
  • Compartment height and depth suitable for your existing devices
  • Open compartments for frequently used equipment
  • Doors or sliding doors with enough clearance to open fully
  • Easily accessible sockets

3. Material details are often interpreted too broadly

A wooden TV stand may be made from solid wood, MDF, chipboard or a combination of materials. These materials differ in terms of weight, finish, care requirements and construction. A wood-effect finish initially describes only the appearance, not necessarily the material itself.

With MDF or chipboard, the edges, fittings and attachment of the feet are particularly important. Details such as “maximum load capacity” should be clearly stated. If this information is missing, you should not estimate the television’s weight yourself.

The Most Important Selection Criteria at a Glance

Dimensions and impact on the room

For smaller rooms, a TV unit measuring 120 cm wide may be sufficient. Wider models from around 140 cm offer more surface space and storage, but require a suitable wall and floor area. The depth should accommodate your equipment without extending unnecessarily far into the room.

The height affects the viewing angle. When seated, the central area of the screen should be approximately at eye level. The sofa, seat height and personal preferences all play a part. A taller model may be useful in a bedroom or with raised seating.

Load capacity and stability

The load capacity must cover at least the weight of the television and any other items placed on the top surface. For a model with a stated 50 kg maximum load capacity, this limit should not be exceeded. This specification does not automatically apply to every individual compartment or drawer.

Also important:

  • Place the furniture on a level, stable surface
  • Attach screws and fittings according to the instructions
  • If necessary, fit a suitable anti-tip device to the wall
  • Do not allow children to climb on doors, drawers or the furniture
  • Follow the assembly instructions and safety warnings

Storage and everyday use

A TV unit with storage should suit the equipment you actually own. Open compartments are suitable for devices operated by remote control or with visible displays. Enclosed areas are ideal for games, cables, films and accessories. Drawers provide space for smaller items, while sliding doors require less clearance in front of the furniture than hinged doors.

Our Selection for Different User Profiles

Suitable for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
Atmosphera Colva TV Unit - Brown, 140 x 40 x 53 cm

Atmosphera Colva TV Unit - Brown, 140 x 40 x 53 cm

Why this product suits the profile: With a width of 140 cm and a depth of 40 cm, this unit is suitable for a living room where compact TV furniture with enclosed storage is required.

How this product avoids the trap

The precise external dimensions make it easier to check whether it will fit your available space. Two sliding doors reduce the clearance needed in front of the unit.

Main benefits & strengths

MDF and chipboard with a wood-effect finish; steel frame; 140 × 40 × 53 cm; self-assembly required.

Suitable for: Buyers with high quality standards
Abana TV stand

Abana TV stand

Why this product suits the profile: If quiet opening and tidy cable management matter in everyday use, this unit offers clearly stated features to support both.

How this product avoids the trap

Two cable openings at the back address the common issue of inadequate cable management. Soft-close hinges and improved drawer runners are explicitly specified.

Main benefits & strengths

Dimensions of 120 × 39 × 48 cm; beige finish; cable management openings; soft-close door hinges.

Suitable for: Special uses & frequent users
Parrot Uncle 147cm Brown TV Unit with Barn Door, Storage Cabinet with Adjustable Shelves, Fits Up to 65 TVs

Parrot Uncle 147cm Brown TV Unit with Barn Door, Storage Cabinet with Adjustable Shelves, Fits Up to 65" TVs

Why this product suits the profile: The combination of open compartments, two doors and a stated suitability for televisions up to 65 inches makes it a good fit for households with several media devices.

How this product avoids the trap

The product details specify the external dimensions, maximum load capacity and a suitable TV size. Two open compartments make it easier to access your devices.

Main benefits & strengths

147.3 × 40.6 × 61.7 cm; 54 kg maximum load capacity; two open compartments and two doors; adjustable shelves.

Suitable for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
TV Cabinet 160 cm with Gold Feet, Two Drawers and Uniquely Designed Doors

TV Cabinet 160 cm with Gold Feet, Two Drawers and Uniquely Designed Doors

Why this product suits the profile: For users who want extra width and a mix of open and enclosed areas, this TV unit offers several clearly described storage options.

How this product avoids the trap

The combination of two drawers, two doors and two open compartments lets you organise accessories, equipment and decorations according to how they are used.

Main benefits & strengths

160 × 36 × 42 cm; 50 kg maximum load capacity; two drawers, two doors and two open compartments.

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.

Assembling and Caring for a TV Cabinet

With almost all flat-pack TV furniture, careful assembly is essential. Before putting it together, check that all parts and fittings are included. Larger models are best assembled by two people. The furniture should be fully levelled before any weight is placed on it.

For many coated surfaces, a soft, slightly damp cloth is all that is needed for cleaning. Abrasive cleaning products, standing water and harsh chemicals can damage the surface. Always follow the product-specific care instructions.

TV Stand FAQ

How wide should a TV stand be?

First, measure the television’s actual width, including its feet. The TV furniture should be slightly wider, so that the device does not extend beyond the side edge and there is enough space from walls or adjacent furniture.

What height is suitable for a lowboard for televisions?

The right height depends on your seating and position. As a general guide, the centre of the screen should be approximately at eye level when you are seated. A different height may be more suitable in a bedroom, with a low sofa or with raised seating.

How long does TV furniture last?

Its service life depends on factors including the material, fittings, assembly, load and care. It is not possible to give a reliable general lifespan. The key factors are suitable load capacity, stable positioning, correctly tightened fasteners and protection from moisture.