What can you use instead of a TV stand? A sideboard, buffet, dresser, credenza, low bookcase or console table can all hold a TV, as long as it's sturdy, wide enough for the TV's base and a sensible height. If you wall-mount the TV, a floating shelf, a fireplace mantel or a bench below it works too. Whatever you use, anchor the furniture and the TV to the wall to prevent tip-overs.
A traditional TV stand is practical, but it isn't the only option. Repurposed furniture can give you extra storage, hidden storage for media gear, more character or a smarter use of floor space, especially in small apartments. Here are the best TV stand alternatives, with the pros and cons of each.
What to Check Before You Choose
| Check | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Width | Wider than the TV stand base or feet, and ideally wider than the screen |
| Depth | Deep enough for the TV's base, with some room front and back |
| Height | Keeps the screen near seated eye level |
| Weight capacity | Must safely hold the TV's weight plus a gaming console and other devices |
| Stability | Must be anchored; drawers or doors shouldn't make it tip |
| Cable access | Room to route power and HDMI cables |
Most TV stands are about 20 to 30 inches tall. Sideboards and dressers are usually taller, about 30 to 40 inches, which puts the screen higher. That's fine if you sit farther back or use a recliner, but check your sightline first. See what size TV stand you need.
10 TV Stand Alternatives
1. A sideboard or buffet
A sideboard is the most popular alternative. It's long, sturdy and full of storage, and it looks more like furniture than a media unit. The Orbis Rounded Edge Sideboard is 86.6 inches wide, with drawers and cabinets for games and remotes. Drill a small hole in the back panel for cables if needed.
2. A dresser
A wide, low dresser holds a TV and gives you deep drawers for blankets and games. The Curva 8-Drawer Double Dresser shown above is 63 inches wide and includes anti-tip hardware. Keep heavy items in the lower drawers.
3. A credenza
A credenza is similar to a sideboard but often lower and with sliding doors, which makes it a natural TV stand. See what is a credenza.
4. A console table
Console tables are narrow, so they suit a wall-mounted TV best. Use one below the screen to hold a soundbar, a lamp and decor.
5. A low bookcase
A horizontal bookcase holds a TV on top and books, baskets and devices below. Anchor it well.
6. A floating shelf
With a wall-mounted TV, a single floating shelf holds a streaming box and a soundbar. It's minimal and great for small rooms.
7. A fireplace mantel
A mantel can hold a TV, but it often puts the screen too high. Mount it as low as the mantel allows, or use a pull-down mount.
8. An entertainment center
If you want the TV as part of a full wall of storage, an entertainment center with bookcases gives you everything at once. See built-in entertainment center ideas.
9. A storage bench
A sturdy, low bench with baskets underneath suits smaller TVs and casual rooms.
10. A rolling cart
A heavy-duty cart lets you move a small TV between rooms. Lock the wheels and keep it in low-traffic areas.
Is It Safe to Put a TV on a Dresser?
It can be, if you take precautions. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission warns about furniture and TV tip-overs and recommends anchoring both. Anchor the dresser to the wall, secure the TV with a strap or mount, keep the TV centered and away from the front edge, and never put a TV on a dresser that children climb. Don't store toys or remotes on top where children might reach for them.
Sideboard vs TV Stand: What's the Difference?
- Height: Sideboards are usually taller.
- Storage: Sideboards often have more closed storage; TV stands have open shelves for devices.
- Cable management: TV stands usually have cable holes; sideboards may need one added.
- Style: Sideboards look like furniture, which many people prefer in a living room.
For more on the difference between storage pieces, see sideboard vs buffet.
What If Your TV Doesn't Have a Stand?
If your TV's feet are missing, buy replacement feet or a universal tabletop TV stand that matches its mounting holes. Alternatively, wall-mount it with a mount rated for its size and weight.
How to Style an Alternative TV Stand
- Keep decor low near the screen and taller at the ends.
- Use baskets in open sections to hide cables and devices.
- Add a lamp or plant at one side for balance.
See how to decorate a TV stand and TV wall ideas for more.
Related: see our ideas for hiding a TV.
FAQ
Can you use a sideboard as a TV stand?
Yes. Make sure it's wide and deep enough for the TV's base, and anchor both to the wall.
Can a buffet cabinet be used as a TV stand?
Yes. Buffets are sturdy and offer lots of storage. Check the height for comfortable viewing.
Are TV stands outdated?
No, but many people now prefer furniture that doubles as storage, like sideboards, or wall-mounted TVs.
What is a cheap way to make a TV stand?
Repurpose a dresser, bookcase or bench you already own, and anchor it securely.
Related: How to decorate a TV stand · TV wall ideas · How to decorate a sideboard · How to decorate a dresser