What Is a Full Motion TV Bracket?(Complete Guide)
A full motion TV bracket is a type of wall mount that allows your television to move in multiple directions. It typically features adjustable arms that let you swivel the TV left or right, tilt it up or down, and pull it forward or push it back. This flexibility allows you to find the perfect viewing angle from any spot in the room.
Benefits of a Full Motion TV Bracket
1. Adjustable Viewing Angles
You can tilt or swivel the TV to your desired angle, making it easy to watch from different positions in the room. This is especially useful in large or multi-purpose spaces.
2. Reduces Glare
By adjusting the angle of the screen, you can avoid annoying reflections from lights or windows and reduce eye strain.
3. Space Saving
Wall mounting your TV frees up valuable surface space on tables and shelves—ideal for smaller rooms or apartments.
4. Easy Access to Cables
Pulling the TV forward allows for easier access to HDMI ports, USB inputs, and other connections on the back of the TV.
5. Improved Safety
Mounting the TV on the wall keeps it out of reach of children or pets and reduces the risk of it falling or being knocked over.
What Is a Full Motion TV Bracket?(Complete Guide)
Drawbacks and ChallengesWhat Is a Full Motion TV Bracket?(Complete Guide)
1. Higher Cost
Full motion brackets are generally more expensive than fixed or tilt-only mounts.
2. More Complex Installation
Due to their moving parts and the need for precise positioning, these brackets can be harder to install and may require professional help.
3. Further from the Wall
Even when folded, these brackets typically leave more space between the wall and the TV compared to fixed mounts, which could affect the room’s aesthetics.
Key Features to Consider
- TV Size and Weight Compatibility
Make sure the bracket is rated for the size and weight of your TV. - VESA Standard Compliance
Check that the bracket matches the VESA (Video Electronics Standards Association) mounting pattern on the back of your TV. - Range of Motion
The wider the swivel, tilt, and extension range, the more flexible your viewing options will be. - Cable Management
Some brackets come with built-in cable management systems to keep wires organized and out of sight.
Important Installation Tips
- Check Wall Strength: Ensure your wall can support the weight of the TV and the bracket. Drywall or hollow walls may need special anchors.
- Use Proper Tools and Leveling: A misaligned mount can result in a crooked TV or even a safety hazard.
- Read the Manual Carefully: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions step by step to avoid mistakes.
- Install at Eye Level: Position the TV so the center of the screen is at eye level when seated to ensure comfortable viewing.
🔄 Types of Motion in a Full Motion TV Bracket
1. Swivel (Horizontal Rotation)
Move the TV left and right
This feature allows the TV to rotate horizontally, usually up to 90° in each direction. It’s perfect for watching from different areas of the room or when the TV is mounted in a corner.
2. Tilt (Vertical Angle Adjustment)
Tilt the screen up or down
You can tilt the TV downward (typically up to 15°) or slightly upward (around 5°) to reduce glare from lights or windows and improve the viewing angle, especially when the TV is mounted higher than eye level.
3. Extension / Retraction (Pull Out and Push In)
Adjust the TV’s distance from the wall
Thanks to an extendable arm, the TV can be pulled away from the wall—sometimes up to 50–60 cm—and pushed back in when needed. This makes cable access easier and adds a modern, “floating” look.
4. Level Adjustment (Fine-Tuning Horizontal Alignment)
Fix slight misalignment after installation
Some brackets let you make minor horizontal adjustments (±3°) after the TV is mounted. This helps level the screen without re-drilling holes in the wall.
5. Rotation (Portrait/Landscape Switching)
Rotate the screen 90° vertically
Certain advanced brackets allow the screen to rotate between landscape (horizontal) and portrait (vertical) modes. This is useful for commercial displays or professional setups like coding and design.
Overview of Movement Types in Full Motion TV Brackets
| Type of Motion | Brief Description | Approximate Range of Motion | Main Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Swivel | Horizontal rotation left and right | ±30° to ±90° | Viewing TV from different angles |
| Tilt | Vertical tilt up and down | +5° up to -15° down | Reducing glare, mounting above eye level |
| Extension | Moving the TV closer or farther from the wall | 5 cm to 80 cm | Easy cable access, better angle adjustment |
| Level Adjustment | Fine horizontal leveling after installation | ±3° to ±5° | Correcting installation misalignment |
| Rotation | Switching between landscape and portrait modes | 90° | Commercial displays or special uses |
Tools Needed for Installing a Full Motion TV Bracket
To properly and safely install a full motion bracket, you will need the following tools:
1. Electric Drill
Used to drill holes into the wall for mounting the bracket. Be sure to use the right drill bit for your wall type (masonry bit for concrete, wood bit for wooden walls).
2. Drill Bits
Appropriate size bits (usually 6 to 12 mm) for drilling precise holes for wall anchors and screws.
3. Screwdriver or Electric Screwdriver
For tightening screws on the bracket and TV mount. Don’t forget the correct screwdriver head (Phillips, star, or Allen).
4. Wall Anchors and Screws
To securely fix the bracket to the wall. Choosing the right type of anchors for your wall material (concrete, brick, drywall) is crucial.
5. Wrench or Allen Key
For tightening bolts and screws on the bracket. An Allen key usually comes included with the bracket.
6. Level
To ensure the bracket is installed perfectly straight and level on the wall.
7. Measuring Tape or Ruler
For accurately measuring the mounting location and setting the bracket height.
8. Pencil or Marker
For marking drilling points on the wall.
9. Hammer
To insert wall anchors into the wall if needed.
10. Safety Gloves and Glasses
To protect your hands and eyes during drilling and installation.
Important Tips:
- Before drilling, use a detector tool to check for wires or pipes behind the wall.
- Because full motion brackets and TVs can be heavy and bulky, it’s best to have at least two people for installation.
Importance and Applications of Full Motion TV Brackets
A full motion TV bracket is one of the best options for mounting your TV on the wall, offering extensive flexibility in movement and angle adjustment. These features greatly enhance your viewing experience and optimize your home or workspace.
1. High Flexibility in Viewing Angle Adjustment
With swivel, tilt, and extension capabilities, you can easily position the TV toward your seating area or any other spot in the room. This is especially useful in multipurpose spaces or large rooms.
2. Reduced Glare and Improved Picture Quality
Tilt adjustment helps you avoid direct sunlight or indoor lighting glare on the screen, resulting in a clearer, reflection-free image.
3. Space Saving and Organized Appearance
Wall mounting frees up floor space and creates a tidier, more modern look. The bracket’s ability to fold flat against the wall also helps keep the area neat.
4. Easy Access to Cables and TV Back
The extendable arm lets you pull the TV away from the wall, making it easy to connect or disconnect cables without fully moving the TV.
5. Easy Installation in Various Locations
Full motion brackets can be installed on different wall types and allow adjustable height and angle, making them suitable for any room or workspace.
6. High Safety and Stability
Made from strong metal with engineered design, these brackets securely hold the TV on the wall without shaking or risk of falling.
7. Aesthetic and Compatibility with Décor
Full motion brackets have a compact, sleek design that matches any décor style, giving your space a clean and modern appearance.
8. Extended Lifespan of TV and Accessories
Proper installation with a quality bracket prevents damage to the TV stand and cables, increasing the device’s longevity.
9. Professional and Versatile Use
In commercial settings, these brackets allow easy rotation and adjustment of the screen to better display content to different audiences.
Structure of a Full Motion TV Bracket
A full motion bracket consists of several main components designed to provide smooth movement and secure installation of the TV. Each part plays an important role in the overall function and stability of the bracket:
1. Wall Plate
A sturdy plate that attaches directly to the wall and supports the weight of the TV. It is usually made of strong steel and serves as the mounting base for other parts.
2. Articulating Arms
Telescopic and jointed arms located between the wall plate and the TV, allowing movement in multiple directions:
- Swivel: rotates the TV left and right.
- Tilt: adjusts the vertical angle of the TV.
- Extension: lets the TV move closer to or farther from the wall.
3. TV Mounting Plate
The plate that attaches to the back of the TV, usually compatible with the VESA standard to fit various TV models.
4. Screws and Bolts
Durable fasteners that securely hold all parts together, typically made of rust-resistant materials.
5. Locking Mechanism
Some brackets have a locking system to keep the TV fixed at the desired angle and prevent unwanted movement.
6. Cable Management System
Features designed to organize cables within the arms or bracket body, protecting them from damage during movement.
7. Finish and Coating
Most brackets are coated with powder-coated paint or anti-rust finishes for increased durability and aesthetic appeal.
Conclusion
A full motion TV bracket is a great choice for anyone who wants flexible viewing, space efficiency, and a more professional entertainment setup. While they tend to cost more and are a bit trickier to install, the added functionality and sleek look are often worth it. If your TV is in a high-traffic or multi-use area, a full motion bracket can be a smart and stylish solution.
At LavaHandyman.com, we don’t just help you understand TV tech — we also offer expert TV installation services, making sure your home entertainment setup looks and performs at its best.
📞 Need Help?
Let us take care of the hard work while you sit back and relax.
📍 Serving: Austin, Round Rock, Cedar Park & more
📱 Call or Text: (737) 420-6992
🌐 Visit: https://lavahandyman.com
