Full Motion TV Mounts That Actually Hold Your Screen
For most people, the Sanus ELMF2 Advanced Tilt 4D is the top pick because it offers smooth motion, sturdy construction, and an easy-to-use locking mechanism. It handles large TVs up to 90 inches and provides a full range of motion, but it costs more than basic mounts. If you need a budget option that still performs well, the VideoSecu ML5311 is a solid choice, though its articulation is more limited.
A full motion TV mount lets you pull your screen away from the wall, tilt it down, and swivel it left or right. That flexibility helps you get the best viewing angle from any seat in the room. But not all mounts are created equal. Some wobble, some sag, and some are a nightmare to install.
We dug through specifications and owner reports to find mounts that hold firm, move smoothly, and fit a range of TV sizes. Whether you have a 55-inch or 85-inch screen, there is a mount here that will work. Read on to see which ones made the cut.
The best picks, ranked
Sanus ELMF2 Advanced Tilt 4D Full Motion TV Mount
This premium mount supports massive screens and offers buttery smooth motion. Owners praise its solid build and easy-to-use locking lever. It extends up to 25 inches, giving you plenty of flexibility. However, its price is higher than many competitors.
Pros
- Smooth gliding motion with no sag
- Easy cable management
- Supports very large TVs
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavy and requires strong wall
VideoSecu ML5311 Full Motion TV Wall Mount
A reliable low cost mount that fits most 26 to 55 inch TVs. It offers decent articulation and comes with a bubble level. Some users note that the arms feel less premium, but it gets the job done without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Includes all hardware
- Simple to install
Cons
- Arms not as sturdy
- Limited extension
Echogear Full Motion TV Mount for 55 to 85 inch TVs
This mount stands out with a post-install level adjustment, letting you fine tune the TV without loosening bolts. It handles TVs up to 85 inches and extends 22 inches. Users like the clear instructions and stable movement.
Pros
- Level adjustment after mounting
- Smooth articulation
- Strong steel construction
Cons
- Heavier than some
- Price is mid range
Mounting Dream MD2380 Full Motion TV Mount
The MD2380 is known for its simple installation process, with a click-in mechanism and easy slide. It fits 37 to 70 inch TVs and has a low profile when pushed back. Some owners wish it extended further, but it works well for most rooms.
Pros
- Click-in mechanism for easy mounting
- Includes bubble level
- Vibration resistant
Cons
- Short extension
- No post-install leveling
VideoSecu Full Motion Articulating TV Mount for 37 to 70 inch TVs
This mount uses dual articulating arms that allow smooth swivel and tilting. It supports up to 100 pounds and fits most VESA patterns. Owners appreciate the sturdy feel and the ability to pull the TV far from the wall.
Pros
- Long extension
- Smooth movement
- Durable construction
Cons
- Installation can be tricky
- Cable management not great
Rocketfish Full Motion TV Wall Mount for Most 55 to 85 inch TVs
Rocketfish offers a well rounded mount with a 27 inch extension, making it one of the longest in our list. It includes a magnetic bubble level and has a sleek design. Some users report that the locking mechanism takes some force to engage.
Pros
- Very long extension
- Magnetic level included
- Slim profile
Cons
- Locking lever stiff
- Price higher than average
Pyle Full Motion TV Mount for 26 to 55 inch TVs
A compact and affordable option that works well for smaller TVs. It has a simple design and easy tilt adjustment. While it does not have the premium feel of higher priced mounts, it provides solid performance for the price.
Pros
- Low cost
- Compact design
- Sufficient for small TVs
Cons
- Not for large TVs
- Less smooth motion
How to choose
The lineup, side by side
| # | Model | TV Size | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sanus ELMF2 Advanced Tilt 4D Full Motion TV Mount | 42 to 90 inches | Large TVs up to 90 inches | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | VideoSecu ML5311 Full Motion TV Wall Mount | 26 to 55 inches | Budget buyers | 8.5 | Check price |
| 3 | Echogear Full Motion TV Mount for 55 to 85 inch TVs | 55 to 85 inches | Post-install leveling | 9.1 | Check price |
| 4 | Mounting Dream MD2380 Full Motion TV Mount | 37 to 70 inches | Ease of installation | 8.8 | Check price |
| 5 | VideoSecu Full Motion Articulating TV Mount for 37 to 70 inch TVs | 37 to 70 inches | Dual articulating arms | 8.7 | Check price |
| 6 | Rocketfish Full Motion TV Wall Mount for Most 55 to 85 inch TVs | 55 to 85 inches | Retail availability | 8.9 | Check price |
| 7 | Pyle Full Motion TV Mount for 26 to 55 inch TVs | 26 to 55 inches | Small to medium TVs | 8.2 | Check price |
Good to know
Will a full motion mount work with any TV?
No. Your TV must have a VESA pattern that matches the mount’s plate. Most mounts include multiple hole patterns, but you need to check the specifications for your TV’s VESA size and weight.
How much extension do I need?
It depends on your room layout. If you need to pull the TV out to clear a fireplace or to angle it toward a seating area, a longer extension is useful. For most rooms, 15 to 20 inches is enough.
Can I install a full motion mount on drywall?
Yes, but you must attach the mount to wooden studs. Drywall alone cannot support the weight of a TV. Use a stud finder to locate studs and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
How much weight can these mounts hold?
Each mount has a maximum weight capacity. It ranges from 66 pounds for smaller mounts to 150 pounds for heavy duty models. Always choose a mount that can support your TV’s weight with some margin.
What is the difference between a tilting mount and a full motion mount?
A tilting mount allows you to angle the TV up or down, but it stays close to the wall. A full motion mount has arms that let you pull the TV away, swivel it left or right, and adjust the tilt.
Are full motion mounts more difficult to install?
They are more complex than a fixed mount because there are more moving parts and heavier brackets. However, most come with clear instructions and all necessary hardware. Having a helper makes the job easier.
How do I know which VESA pattern my TV has?
Check your TV’s manual or the back of the TV. The VESA pattern is typically listed as something like 400×400. You can also measure the distance between the mounting holes in millimeters.
Can I use a full motion mount on a concrete wall?
Yes, but you will need masonry anchors and possibly a different mounting method. Some mounts include hardware for concrete, but it is safer to use the appropriate anchors for your wall type.
Will the TV stick out too far when not in use?
Full motion mounts can be pushed back to a low profile, but they will always stand out a bit more than a fixed mount. The minimum distance from the wall varies by model, usually around 2 to 4 inches.
Do these mounts come with a warranty?
Most reputable brands offer a limited lifetime warranty. Check the product details on Amazon to see the warranty information. Sanus and Echogear are known for good warranty coverage.
Final word
If you have a large TV and want the best performance, choose the Sanus ELMF2. It is worth the extra money for its smooth motion and sturdy build. If you are on a budget, the VideoSecu ML5311 gives you full motion capabilities without breaking the bank. For most mid size TVs, the Mounting Dream MD2380 offers the best balance of ease and reliability.
