Which long reach TV arm fits your wall setup and viewing distance

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How to measure required reach for a wall mounted TV arm

Start by identifying where on the wall the TV arm will attach. This is usually at eye level when seated. Measure horizontally from this point to where the TV screen center should be for comfortable viewing.

Include any obstructions or furniture that affect where the TV can physically sit. Remember to factor in how far the arm needs to swivel or extend to clear obstacles.

Measure vertical height from the floor to the mounting point, then to your eye level while seated. This helps confirm if tilt or swivel adjustments will be necessary to avoid glare or discomfort.

Use a tape measure or laser measure for accuracy. Mark dimensions clearly on paper or a digital note to check against arm specifications. There is more on charging phones while biking in a separate guide.

The arm’s reach must also allow for comfortable swivel angles. If your seating area is wide, measure the horizontal distance to the farthest viewing spot and add about 3 inches for swivel clearance.

For example, if your seating is 20 inches from the wall and you want the TV centered at 24 inches from the wall, look for an arm with at least 27 inches reach. This accounts for both positioning and smooth swivel.

Double-check your wall space depth. The arm folds back when not extended. Make sure there’s room for the arm to retract without hitting furniture or protrusions. A tight fit limits use and may cause damage. If that sounds like your situation, read up on 300 mm telescoping dash arm options next.

What maximum extension lengths typical long reach arms offer

Long reach wall mounted TV arms usually extend from about 12 to 30 inches from the wall. Some specialty models can reach up to 36 inches but these are less common.

Extension length depends on arm design: single-joint arms offer shorter reach but better stability. Multi-joint arms provide longer reach and maneuverability but can sag with heavier TVs.

Check manufacturer specifications carefully for maximum extension and weight capacity. An arm rated for your TV’s weight at full extension is essential to avoid damage or failure. For the detail, see our notes on how many pixels are in a phone screen.

Longer arms often require sturdier mounting hardware or wall reinforcement, especially with heavy TVs. Drywall anchors alone are rarely enough for arms extending over 20 inches.

Single-joint arms typically extend 12 to 18 inches, ideal for small rooms or close mounting. Double-joint arms cover 18 to 24 inches with more flexibility. Triple-joint arms push 24 to 30 inches, best for large rooms or corner mounting.

Weight capacity usually drops as extension length increases. An arm rated for 60 pounds at 12 inches might only support 40 pounds at 30 inches. Check load ratings at full extension carefully.

Some manufacturers offer spring-assisted arms or tension adjustments. These features help maintain position and reduce sag, especially on longer extensions. Look for these if you have a heavy TV or need frequent repositioning.

How arm length affects TV positioning and stability

Longer arms give flexible positioning but increase leverage on the wall mount. This often results in more sag or wobble if the arm or wall anchors aren’t strong enough.

Heavier TVs accentuate this effect. A 50-pound TV on a 30-inch arm creates three times the bending force of the same TV on a 10-inch arm.

Some arms incorporate gas springs or reinforced steel to counteract sag. Check if the arm model advertises anti-sag features or adjustable tension.

Wall type affects stability too. Solid studs or masonry walls hold longer arms better than drywall alone. Using a stud finder before installation is critical.

The bending force on the mount equals the TV weight multiplied by the arm length. For instance, a 40-pound TV on a 20-inch arm exerts 800 inch-pounds of torque.

Excessive torque can loosen screws or damage drywall anchors. Using heavy-duty lag bolts into studs is a must with arms extending beyond 20 inches.

If you notice the TV sagging or the arm drooping after installation, check tension settings or consider a stronger arm. Some users add a support bracket or switch to a fixed arm to improve stability.

Accurately measure your TV viewing setup and pick a long reach arm that balances extension and stability for safe, clear viewing.

Which long reach TV arm fits your wall setup and viewing distance

After measuring your viewing distance and wall mount height, select an arm offering slightly more extension than needed. This lets you adjust positioning without overextending the mount.

For typical living rooms, arms extending 18 to 24 inches cover most corner or offset wall setups. For large rooms or open spaces, 24 to 30 inches may be required.

Confirm your TV weight is within the arm’s capacity at full extension. Overloading the arm risks damage and safety hazards.

If your wall is drywall with studs, mount into a stud and use heavy-duty lag bolts. For masonry walls, use appropriate anchors rated for dynamic loads.

If your room is small and the viewing distance is under 15 feet, an 18-inch arm usually suffices. For distances over 15 feet, aim for a 24- to 30-inch arm for better positioning.

Take note if your wall is uneven or has obstacles like light switches or outlets. Some arms allow lateral adjustment or have offset mounts to clear obstructions.

If you use the TV for gaming or PC input, consider an arm with smooth, easy motion. This allows quick repositioning for different tasks without compromising stability.

1. Measure horizontal distance from wall mount point to desired TV center.
2. Measure vertical height and eye level seated height.
3. Check TV weight and size specifications.
4. Choose an arm with extension 10-20% longer than measured horizontal distance.
5. Confirm wall type and secure mounting hardware.

How to measure required reach for a wall mounted TV arm

Place yourself where you usually watch TV. Note your eye level height and the distance from the wall where the TV will sit.

Measure from the wall surface to your eye line horizontally. This gives the minimum extension you need from the arm.

Add a margin of about 2-4 inches to accommodate arm joints and slight repositioning.

Record the total and verify it fits within arm extension lengths available. Also confirm you have space for the arm's folded position.

What maximum extension lengths typical long reach arms offer

The longest arms on the market typically extend to 30 inches, with some specialty models reaching slightly farther.

Most commonly, arms offer three levels of extension joints: single (12-18 inches), double (18-24 inches), and triple (24-30 inches).

Longer arms require stronger mounts and thicker arms to prevent bending and maintain safety.

Confirm max TV weight at full extension before choosing. Avoid arms overloaded at max reach.

FAQ

We’ve installed dozens of long reach arms and know balance between reach and sag firsthand.