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What's the Difference Between a Media Center & TV Stand
When decorating their living room or home theater, people often wonder if there is a difference between a media center and a TV stand. Although many use the terms interchangeably, there are a few key distinctions. If you spend a lot of time in this room, it's important to choose the one that will work best for your space and lifestyle.
Media centers, also known as wall units or entertainment centers:
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Are often very large, occupying significant wall space.
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Surround the television on each side and sometimes above.
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Offer plenty of storage and display options via shelves, drawers, and cabinets.
TV Stands
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Are simpler and more streamlined in design.
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Provide a surface for the television to rest on with nothing surrounding it.
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Offer minimal storage below for essential items.
Both pieces can typically hold cable boxes and game consoles. However, the extensive storage of a media center can also house movies, games, and other types of media.
Choosing What's Best for You
Because of the differences between a media center and TV stand, one may be a better fit for your needs. If you have a large collection of decorative accessories that you want to display or need room to store games and media, a media center may be the ideal choice. They offer a variety of layouts with options for complex designs. However, you need room on a sizable open wall to accommodate one of these pieces. Be sure to take precise measurements.
If space is limited, a TV stand might work better. These tend to fit in smaller rooms and leave the walls open. It is always good to measure the space in your home and the size of the television, but TV stands offer a bit more wiggle room. Shelving can always be added nearby to store movies, books, and other media.
Decorating with a TV Stand or Media Center
Televisions often become the focal point of a living room. Making sure you have the perfect spot for it in your living room is essential. Use this guide to set up the living room of your dreams. Find your favorite TV stands or media centers near you.