TV stand comparison: which media console is right for you?

There's that one moment when a TV stand either "just works" — or drives you crazy. You sit down, the movie starts, and suddenly you notice: cables are visible, the console is half in the way, the soundbar has nowhere to go. Or the TV looks somehow too heavy on the lowboard.

That's exactly why it's worth comparing TV stands before you buy. Not as a dry product roundup, but as an honest check: What dimensions fit your room? Do you want a wall-mounted TV stand or would you prefer a freestanding one? And how important are weight capacity, cable management, and an easy-to-clean surface when your living room actually gets used?

In this guide, we'll take a closer look at TV stands and compare popular models — from system classics to customizable solutions and the "made in Germany" upgrade.

Table of contents

1. TV cabinet or lowboard: What really goes inside?
2. Lowboard dimensions: The most important reality check
3. Wall-mounted TV stand or freestanding unit: Which one fits you?
4. The big TV stand comparison: IKEA, JYSK, MYCS & mokebo
5. Conclusion: Which lowboard wins?

Buying a TV stand: What to check before you buy

Before we talk colors and finishes, three things matter: TV size, tech, and how it feels in your space.

TV cabinet or lowboard: What really goes inside?

Sounds simple, but it's often overlooked. Ask yourself quickly:

• Is it just the TV? Or also soundbar, console, receiver, and router?

• Should everything hide behind doors or can it stay visible?

• Are there things you need within quick reach (controllers, remotes)?

If you want to hide your tech, a fully enclosed TV lowboard usually feels calmer. If you're constantly accessing devices, a completely closed model eventually becomes impractical.

Lowboard dimensions: The most important reality check

With a TV stand, dimensions aren't just formalities — they decide how the whole room looks.

• Width: A lowboard feels calmer when it's slightly wider than your TV.

• Depth: Plan space for plugs. Otherwise, your TV stand ends up 5 cm away from the wall.

• Height: Lower looks more modern. At the same time, a soundbar has to fit without blocking the screen.

Our TV stand'Das Schwebende' comes in at 160 cm wide, 42 cm deep, and 36 cm tall. That's an ideal size for a clean, not-too-bulky TV area.

Interior tip: When a TV barely fits on a stand, it quickly feels like you picked the wrong size piece. But when the stand is noticeably wider, the whole corner suddenly looks planned and spacious — even without extra decor.

Wall-mounted TV stand or freestanding unit: Which one fits you?

Wall-mounted TV stand: The look for more space

A floating TV stand makes the corner feel lighter. More floor stays visible, vacuuming is easier, and your living room feels more organized.

Key considerations:

1. Your wall has to be suitable for mounting.

2. Weight capacity needs to be clear (specifically for wall mounting, not just standing).

3. Cables should be routed so they're not visible under the stand.

'Das Schwebende' can be wall-mounted or freestanding. We include the wall brackets. Weight capacity is up to 50 kg with us for both options.

Freestanding unit: The hassle-free option

A freestanding unit is the "just put it down" option. That's ideal if you don't want to drill, your lease makes wall mounting difficult, or if you want to stay flexible with your layout.

Cable management: The difference between a living room and a tech corner

A TV stand can look high-end — and still feel chaotic if cables are showing. A thoughtfully designed setup has a cable opening on top or the back for your TV cables plus additional openings in the rear panel for your console and receiver. 'Das Schwebende' has a circular cable passage on top and additional openings in the back panel. That makes all the visual difference in everyday life.

The big TV stand comparison: IKEA, JYSK, MYCS & mokebo

How does 'Das Schwebende' stack up against the classics and other brands? We've put together the key facts for you.

The entry-level models: IKEA & JYSK

IKEA BESTÅ is a classic for anyone seeking maximum modularity. It offers tons of front options, but home delivery pushes the final price up. JYSK offers 'Limfjorden' as a very budget-friendly, freestanding-only solution. If you're after a simple white TV stand, you'll find a solid base here, but you'll have to skip the wall-mounted design.

The custom solution: MYCS

MYCS is the right choice if you want to plan to the centimeter and love personalization. The quality is high, but delivery times are noticeably longer and pricing sits at the premium end.

The charming upgrade: mokebo 'Das Schwebende'

mokebo makes 'Das Schwebende' right here in North Rhine-Westphalia. That cuts CO2 through shorter shipping distances and guarantees you quality that survives family life. With the handleless design and the option to use it as a wall-mounted lowboard, you get modern style without the long wait times. Thanks to the smart rail system, wall mounting is also safe to do solo: screw the rail to the wall, hang the stand, done. Matching sideboard and tall cabinet are also available and can be combined into a modern wall unit.

Conclusion: Which lowboard wins?

If you need full flexibility on width and can pick up your delivery by car via click & collect, BESTÅ is a solid choice. Looking for something one-of-a-kind with a bigger budget? It's worth checking out brands like MYCS and tylko.

If you value made in Germany, easy wall mounting, and fast, climate-neutral, free delivery, 'Das Schwebende' from mokebo is your TV stand. It's the functional standout for anyone who wants a calm aesthetic and real durability in their living room.