42 Inch TV Wall Mount: Everything You Need to Know to Mount your 42 inch TV
Introduction to Wall Mounting 42 inch TV Wall mounting your 42-inch TV can provide a number of great benefits compared to placing it on a TV stand:
Saves floor and shelf space – Keep your space open and decluttered by mounting your TV flush to the wall. It gets it off ground level to protect it from damage, too.
Allows optimal viewing angle – Mount it at the ideal height for comfortable viewing from your couch, recliner, or other seating.
Keeps wires and cords organized and out of the way – Safely route and hide wires in the wall for a clean look.
Before installing a wall mount, some key considerations include:
Weight and VESA mount compatibility – Ensure the mount is rated to hold the weight of your 42 inch TV and matches the VESA mounting holes on the back.
Ideal viewing height – The general rule of thumb is to mount about 42-60 inches high for comfortable viewing.
Stud spacing in your wall – There should be solid studs in the wall 16 inches apart to securely hold the mount and TV weight.
Selecting the Best 42 Inch TV Wall Mount
Choosing the right type of mount for your 42″ TV and wall setup is key for a safe and functional installation.
Fixed vs Articulating Mounts
Fixed mounts only allow tilting or basic movement – less versatile but simpler and affordable.
Articulating mounts extend, tilt, swivel and rotate – provides more viewing flexibility.
Other Features to Consider:
- Tilting – vertical angle adjustment
- Swiveling – side-to-side movement
- Extension – some articulated mounts extend out from the wall
- Materials – aluminum, steel, plastic
- Weight rating – be sure it meets or exceeds TV weight
- VESA compatibility – match the mount and TV interface holes
Price ranges vary widely from under $30 up over $150+ for high-end mounts.
How to Install a 42 Inch TV Wall Mount
Once you’ve picked the right 42 inch TV wall mount, here are the steps for proper installation:
Supplies Needed:
- Stud finder
- Level
- Drill and drill bits
- Screws
- Appropriate tools for the mount
- Helper for lifting TV
Installation Steps:
1. Find and mark studs – Use stud finder, mark at least 3-4 stud edges for the mount plate.
2. Secure mount plate – Line up plate holes with stud marks, use top quality screws drilled into studs.
3. Measure ideal TV height – Mark spot on wall at desired height for top of TV.
4. Mount the TV bracket – Lift (with help) and attach the TV bracket to the mount plate as directed.
5. Level and tighten – Ensure mount is level side-to-side before final tightening.
6. Organize cords – Run wires through mounts/arms and adhere to back of TV.
Follow manufacturer instructions closely each step of the way as methods vary. Safety first!
Safety Tips for Mounting a 42 Inch TV
To safely install a mount for your heavy 42″ television:
- Verify the mount is rated for the TV weight with a wide safety margin. Don’t risk an unstable mount.
- Use the correct screws that came with the mount and drill into solid studs only.
- Carefully follow all included manufacturer instructions.
- Have a helper to hold the awkward TV to prevent injury or damage.
- Route all cords properly through the mount to avoid loose wires.
Top 5 Best 42 Inch TV Wall Mounts of 2023
If researching the many 42″ TV mounts options seems daunting, here is a comparison of 5 of the highest rated models for the coming year based on reviews and specs:
| Brand | Mount Type | Weight Limit | Price | Rating | Key Features |
| Echogear | Tilting | 130 lbs | $$ | 4.8/5 | Low profile, holds heavy TVs |
| VideoSecu | Articulating | 88 lbs | $ | 4.5/5 | Extends 23″, swivels, tilts |
| Mount it | Tilting | 130 lbs | $$$ | 4.9/5 | Ultra strong steel, 20° tilt |
| Sanus | Fixed | 130 lbs | $$ | 4.7/5 | Premium materials and construction |
| Amazon Basics | Tilting | 100 lbs | $ | 4.4/5 | Basic affordable option |
I recommend the Echogear for its sturdy build quality and tilt range or the VideoSecu for more adjustable movement capabilities if within your budget. Check current pricing on Amazon as models and deals fluctuate year to year.
FAQs About Mounting a 42 Inch TV
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about selecting and installing TV mounts:
Q: Does mount size matter for a 42 inch TV?
A: Not always. It needs to fit the VESA bolt hole pattern on that specific model TV. Some 42″ use 200x200mm while others are 400x400mm.
Q: Can I mount to drywall without studs?
A: It’s not advisable for safely holding a heavy 42″ TV long-term. Hitting wood studs with lag bolts is the most secure mounting method.
Q: How do I hide the wires when wall mounting?
A: Runs wires through the mount arm channels or sleeves if equipped. For in-wall power, kits and wire conduits hide wires fully behind drywall.
Q: Is it cheaper to mount myself or hire a pro?
A: In most cases DIY is cheaper if you’re comfortable doing it yourself. Some pros may be needed for in-wall electrical or additional structural support.
Conclusion
I hope this guide gives you all the details needed to pick out and properly install the best wall mount for your 42 inch television. Mounting it securely on the wall not only looks great, but opens up floor space and the ideal viewing position.
Just remember to fully research weight capacities, tilt/swivel needs, your wall construction, and don’t take safety shortcuts during installation. Following this advice and manufacturers’ instructions will have your new mount supporting and showcasing your nice flatscreen TV in quality fashion for years of viewing enjoyment!