The best TV console for a gaming setup is a media console at least as wide as your TV, with open or mesh-backed shelves for airflow and a weight rating well above your TV and consoles combined. Look for a 55 to 65 inch unit for a typical living room, cable pass-throughs, and enough shelf height for a PS5, Xbox Series X or gaming PC.
Our top picks
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Quick comparison of TV console types
| Type | Best for | Typical width | Key features | Price range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low-profile media console | Living rooms with a wall-mounted or large TV | 55-71 in | Open shelves, cable holes, room for a soundbar | Mid-range |
| Entertainment center with LED lights | Gaming dens | 58-70 in | RGB lighting, power outlets, ventilated shelves | Budget to mid |
| Corner TV stand | Small rooms | 42-55 in | Fits in a corner, small footprint | Budget |
| IKEA BESTA-style modular unit | Custom storage | 47-94 in | Mix and match frames, doors and shelves | Mid-range |
| Fireplace TV stand | Cozy living rooms | 58-70 in | Electric heater feature, shelves | Mid to upper-mid |
Widths are typical ranges from manufacturer listings. Always check the exact product dimensions and the maximum TV size and weight on the spec sheet.
Best overall: low-profile media console with open shelves
For a PS5 or Xbox setup, a low-profile console with open shelves is the best balance. Open shelves keep consoles cool, you can reach ports easily, and the lower height keeps the TV at eye level when you sit on a sofa. Choose one with a back panel that has cable cutouts so wires run neatly. The trade-off is that open shelving shows dust and cables, so plan on tidying them.
Best for gamers: entertainment center with LED lighting
Many gaming-oriented stands include LED strips, power outlets and USB ports. These are convenient but should not replace a surge protector. Check that the LED controls are easy to switch off and that the shelves are tall enough for your devices. Cheaper models often use thin particleboard, so verify the weight limit and avoid putting a heavy TV on a rating that is barely enough.
Best for small rooms: corner TV stand
A corner stand angles the TV toward the room and frees up wall space. Most hold TVs up to around 50 to 55 inches. They also tend to have less storage, so they work best if you stream most of your content and only have one console.
Best for storage: modular units like IKEA BESTA
Modular systems let you choose the frame size, shelves and doors. Doors hide clutter but block infrared remotes and trap heat, so pick a version with open shelves or perforated panels for consoles. This route costs more once you add components, but gives the most flexibility.
Best for cozy rooms: fireplace TV stand
These stands add an electric fireplace insert under the TV. They look good but the heater can warm the area around consoles, so avoid placing a console directly above the heat source and use the flame effect without heat when gaming.
How to choose a TV console
Match the TV width
The stand should be at least as wide as your TV, ideally a few inches wider. A 16:9 TV’s width is about 87% of its diagonal. That means a 55-inch TV is roughly 48 inches wide, a 65-inch is about 57 inches, a 75-inch is about 65 inches and an 85-inch is about 74 inches.
| TV size | Approx. TV width | Minimum console width | Comfortable width |
|---|---|---|---|
| 55 in | 48 in | 48 in | 55 in |
| 65 in | 57 in | 57 in | 63-65 in |
| 75 in | 65 in | 65 in | 70-71 in |
| 85 in | 74 in | 74 in | 78 in or more |
Check the weight rating
Add up the TV weight, consoles and soundbar and keep that total below about 70% of the stated limit. A 65-inch TV can weigh around 50 to 70 pounds, and the stand’s rating is listed by the manufacturer.
Airflow for consoles
The PS5 slim is about 358 mm tall, the original PS5 about 390 mm, and the Xbox Series X about 301 mm, according to the manufacturers. Make sure shelves are taller than that when the console is vertical, and leave several inches clear on each side for vents. Avoid enclosed cabinets without ventilation.
Cable management
- Choose a back panel with large cutouts for HDMI and power cables.
- Use a surge protector inside the unit rather than relying on built-in outlets alone.
- Label HDMI cables, especially if you have a PS5, Xbox and PC on one TV.
Common mistakes
- Buying a stand narrower than the TV, which makes it tip-prone.
- Putting a console in a closed cabinet and blocking vents.
- Forgetting that soundbars need extra height under the TV.
Frequently Asked Questions
How wide should a TV console be?
At least as wide as the TV, and ideally 4 to 8 inches wider. For a 65-inch TV, aim for 63 to 71 inches.
Can a TV console hold a gaming PC?
Yes, if the shelf is tall and deep enough for the case and has airflow. Mid-tower PCs are often 17 to 20 inches tall, so measure the shelf opening.
Is it safe to put a PS5 in a closed cabinet?
Not unless there is ventilation. The PS5 needs room around its vents, so keep it on an open shelf or in a unit with perforated panels.
What height is best for a TV console?
Choose a height that puts the TV’s center near eye level when seated, typically 15 to 24 inches for the console. A low unit works best with a large TV.
Do I need to anchor a TV console to the wall?
It is a good idea, especially with children or pets. Most manufacturers include anti-tip hardware for exactly this reason.
