TV stand, TV console, media console and entertainment center: the names overlap, but the furniture doesn't. They differ in size, storage and how much of the wall they take. Choose the wrong one and the TV looks lost, or the room looks crowded. Here's how the main types compare, the pros and cons of each, and how to choose for your room.
The Quick Comparison
| TV stand | TV / media console | Entertainment center | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | Compact, 30–60 in wide | Long and low, 60–90 in wide | Full wall, 100–120 in wide |
| Height | 20–30 in | 18–26 in | 70–90 in (with towers) |
| Storage | Open shelves, a few doors | Drawers and closed cabinets | Bookcases, cabinets, sometimes a fireplace |
| Best for | Small rooms, bedrooms | Most living rooms and large TVs | Statement walls, collectors, large rooms |
| Price | $ | $–$$ | $$–$$$ |
TV Stand
A simple, usually compact piece made mainly to hold the TV, often with open shelves for devices. It's affordable and easy to move, and it suits bedrooms, dorms and small living rooms. The downside: there's less storage, and large TVs can look top-heavy on it.
TV Console / Media Console
A long, low cabinet, essentially a sideboard for the TV, with drawers and closed cabinets that hide devices and clutter. This is the most versatile choice for modern living rooms and large TVs.
- The Orbis Streamline Edge TV Console (86.6 in W × 19.7 in H) is low and wide, with rounded corners and a 110 lb top.
- The Nacre TV Stand (78.7 in W) adds mother-of-pearl-look fronts and a marble-look top, and fits 43–75 in TVs.
- The Relievo Panel TV Console (60 in W) has carved panels, glass-door cabinets, four drawers and a 176 lb top.
Entertainment Center
A wall unit that surrounds the TV with bookcases or cabinets, sometimes with an electric fireplace at the center. It gives you the most storage and the biggest visual impact, close to the look of a built-in. It needs a wide wall (about 10 ft) and more budget.
- The Traditional Entertainment Center with Open Shelves (115.5 in W) offers symmetrical 5-tier bookcases.
- The 118 in Entertainment Center with Electric Fireplace combines a fireplace, LED-lit shelves and a mantel rated for 165 lb.
Ideas for planning one are in built-in entertainment center ideas.
Other Types
- Low-profile / floating-look consoles: under 20 in tall, for wall-mounted TVs and minimal rooms.
- Corner TV stands: triangular or angled units for corners.
- Fireplace TV stands: a console with an electric fireplace insert. See our fireplace TV stand guide.
- Sideboards used as TV stands: great in dining or bedroom setups, but taller (about 30–36 in), so better for smaller TVs.
Drawers vs. Doors vs. Open Shelves
| Storage | Best for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Drawers | Remotes, controllers, cables, games | Not for devices that need airflow |
| Hinged doors | Hiding clutter, larger items | Remotes don't work through solid doors |
| Glass doors | Devices that need line of sight, display | Dust shows |
| Open shelves | Streaming boxes, consoles, speakers | Must stay tidy |
How to Choose
- Measure the TV's width: the stand should be at least as wide, ideally wider. See our TV stand size guide.
- Measure the wall: about 10 ft or more opens up the option of an entertainment center.
- List what you need to store: devices, games, books, décor.
- Match the room's style: rounded oak for soft modern, carved white for traditional, pearl and marble looks for glam.
- Check the weight rating and anchor everything.
FAQ
What is the difference between a TV stand and a TV console?
A TV stand is usually smaller and simpler, often with open shelves. A console is longer and lower, with drawers and closed storage.
Is an entertainment center better than a TV stand?
It holds a lot more, and it's better for collectors and large walls. A TV stand or console suits smaller rooms and minimal looks.
Is it better to mount a TV or put it on a stand?
Mounting saves floor space and gives a clean look. A stand is easier, renter-friendly, and holds devices. Many people mount the TV and still use a low console below for storage.
What is a credenza vs. a TV stand?
A credenza is a long, low cabinet, often with sliding doors. Used under a TV, it works as a media console. See sideboard vs. buffet vs. credenza.
Do you really need a TV stand?
Not if you wall-mount the TV, but a console underneath still hides cables and devices and anchors the wall visually.
Are low TV stands better?
For large TVs and low sofas, yes. A low console puts the center of the screen closer to seated eye level.
Shop all TV stands and entertainment centers.