A basic flat mount provides a low profile.
Almost every modern television includes a stand or pedestal for use with an entertainment center. These stands don't work as well if you'd like your TV to sit higher, without any distracting objects nearby. Flat panel televisions also include mount points for a television wall mount, but most don't include the mount in the box. These mounts come in flat, tilt, tilt/swivel and articulating mounts, which offer different adjustment options and a wide price range.
Flat Mount
This very simple, inexpensive TV wall mount doesn't include any moving parts, so it's hard to break. Flat mounts work for all television sizes, but are about the only choice for very large screens, since their weight can pose a risk with adjustable mounts. Most flat mounts place the TV only about an inch from the wall, and don't let you adjust the viewing angle to allow for changes in lighting.
Tilt Mount
A little more complex than a flat mount, tilt mounts sit at least 2 inches from the wall and let you tilt your television up and down to account for glare or an unusual angle. This kind of mount works well if you need to place your TV high on the wall, above a fireplace or unusually low. Tilt mounts use a relatively simple mechanism and look a lot like flat mounts.
Tilt and Swivel Mount
This type of television mount offers the action of a tilt mount combined with a side-to-side motion. If you tend to watch TV from more than one place in your room, you can adjust the set for the best viewing from each location. Tilt and swivel mounts also let you adjust for glare and changes in lighting throughout the day, but their larger mechanism means the television sits farther from the wall.
Articulating Mount
These mounts offer the widest range of motion, and can fold almost flush with the wall or extend out several inches. An articulating mount works only on small to medium screens, but can position your television at just about any viewing angle. These mounts are the most expensive and difficult to assemble, but are worth it if you need to adjust your viewing angle frequently.
Alternatives
In addition to wall mounts, you can also choose a ceiling or under-cabinet mount. Ceiling mounts include a bracket and pole that attach to the ceiling, plus an articulating hinge that lets you adjust the angle of your television. Under-cabinet mounts are similar, but work only with small televisions, suspending them from the top of a cabinet or entertainment center. These mounts also let you fold the TV up into the cabinet to store it. Both mounts work well when a wall-mounted television isn't an option.
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