Here are some of the main factors to keep in mind while shopping for the perfect TV entertainment console. 

Style and design: TV consoles range in design from options that look like traditional furniture to models that have more modern or minimalist styles. Most consoles are also designed with some kind of cord management system to keep your HDMI cables and other wires organized and out of sight. Additionally, some are built with cabinets and shelves, while others offer limited storage options. So, be sure the console you choose has enough space to house all your components, like cable set-top boxes, streaming devices, Blu-ray players, gaming systems, and soundbars.   

Ventilation: If you're purchasing a large TV console and plan to store other media devices within its shelves and cubbies, we recommend avoiding models that only feature closed cabinets. Tech products placed in small, closed spaces can overheat, so it's best to find a console that has uncovered, vented, or fully open storage spaces to allow for good airflow.

Size: If you're looking to buy a furniture-style TV console, you'll want to measure the width of the existing tabletop pedestal or legs attached to your TV to ensure they're not too wide for the console you're buying. Most TV consoles also list a recommended maximum weight that you should stay within.

Material: TV console stands are constructed with a wide variety of materials, which affect their functionality and aesthetic appeal. Most consoles are made of either wood, metal, or glass. Additionally, some models are made with particle boards or MDF (medium-density fiberboard). Each material has its pros and cons: Some are more durable but more expensive. Conversely, cheaper materials, like MDF, may not last as long as pricier options. 

Assembly: Before you buy a stand, be sure you familiarize yourself with its assembly requirements. Can you do it yourself, or will you need to hire a professional to put it together? If the latter, some retail outlets offer "white glove" services that include delivery and full assembly.

TV consoles, pedestals, and leg stands are all used to support your TV, but they're different in how they're designed and used. Here's a quick overview of each type: 

TV console stands: This type of stand is a piece of furniture built for your TV to rest on or be mounted above. In order to be placed directly on a console, your TV must already be attached to a tabletop pedestal or leg stand (which are typically included with most TVs). Some TV consoles are large enough to fit in front of an entire wall, while others are more compact. Most include shelves and cabinets to store additional devices like cable boxes, streaming players, and video game systems. 

Pedestal stands A TV pedestal stand attaches directly to your display so it can rest on a media console, table, or other piece of furniture. Pedestal-style stands have a central column and a flat base that make them easy to place on a variety of surfaces. Most TVs come with some kind of attachable stand already, but replacement and alternative pedestals are sold separately. These third-party stands typically offer more adjustment options, like swiveling bases and multiple height orientations.

Leg stands: Like pedestal stands, TV leg stands (sometimes referred to as "feet") attach directly to your panel so your display can be placed on a console or other piece of furniture. But unlike pedestals that have a single column and base, legs come in pairs that attach to the left and right of your display. Most "feet" are designed with three spokes: The top one screws into the TV, and the bottom two protrude in front of and behind the display to balance it. Some feet also have anti-slip pads to avoid sliding. Again, most TVs come with some kind of attachable stand, but TV legs are sold separately if you need a new pair or an alternative to whatever came packed with your display.

A popular alternative to using a TV stand is to hang up your TV with a wall mount. Wall mounting can save space since you don't necessarily need a console underneath, and many shoppers like the aesthetic. Visit our guide to the best TV wall mounts for top picks. 

However, wall mounting isn't an ideal solution for everyone. For starters, you'll need to drill or cut into your wall to install your mount, which means potentially causing damage. So, if you rent, a wall mount might not be an option. Properly and safely mounting a TV can also be complicated and challenging, so you may want to hire a professional, which can be expensive. One last downside: Depending on the type of wall mount you install and the design of your display, you might find it difficult to get access to your TV's inputs (like HDMI and USB ports).