No Stud? No Problem: How to Mount a TV on Drywall

Mounting a TV on drywall without studs might seem daunting or unwise, but with the right tools and anchors, it’s entirely achievable. It’s a good option if you have metal studs or vast sections of hollow drywall, or if you’re a renter who can’t drill into the walls. 

Why drywall needs special care

Drywall is a layer of gypsum sandwiched between paper. It’s strong enough for hanging pictures, but like most things in life, it has its limits. Screws driven into drywall alone can only support about 5–10 lbs each before ripping out. Modern flat-screen TVs, meanwhile, weigh anywhere from 30-80 lbs or more. You’ll need multiple heavy-duty anchors to distribute the load. 

📏 Follow this rule

Building codes and manufacturers recommend using anchors that can support four times the total weight of your TV and mount combined. 

Tools and materials

You will need:

• Stud finder: An electronic or magnetic stud finder helps you verify whether studs exist behind the installation area. Even if you intend to mount without them, it’s good to check.

• Drill and 1/2-inch bit: A power drill with a 1/2-inch or larger bit is required to make holes for toggle or molly bolts.

• Drywall saw: A small, handheld saw or jab saw cuts through drywall cleanly if you need to enlarge holes.

• Snap toggle anchors: These anchors consist of a bolt and a metal bar that flips open behind the wall. They support 200 lbs or more when installed correctly.

• Molly bolts: Metal anchors that expand behind the wall. They’re rated around 50 lbs each and are good for medium-sized TVs.

• Self-drilling anchors: Plastic or metal anchors that screw into the drywall. Rated 30–75 lbs, they’re useful for lighter components or secondary mounting points.

• 1/2-inch plywood plate (optional): For extra reinforcement, screw a square of plywood to the wall using multiple anchors, then attach the TV mount to the plywood. Paint it to match the wall.

• TV wall mount: Ensure the mount is compatible with your TV’s VESA pattern and weight.

• Tape measure, level and pencil: For accurate placement and alignment.

Finding studs (if any)

Always check for studs first, even if you don’t plan to use them. Hitting at least one stud improves stability. To find studs in drywall:

• Knock along the wall and listen for a solid sound, indicating a stud, versus a hollow sound.

• Use a stud finder to locate screws that fasten the drywall to studs. They’re usually spaced 16 or 24 inches apart.

• Measure from a corner; studs often follow standard spacing. Mark their locations with a pencil.

If a stud is available on one side of your intended mount area, you can anchor one side of the bracket into the stud and use drywall anchors on the other side for a hybrid solution.

Mounting a TV without studs in 8 steps 

1. Mark your position: Decide where you want the TV. Mark the desired height — most experts agree that about 42 inches from the floor to the center makes for comfortable viewing.

2. Lay out the mount: Hold the mounting bracket or template against the wall and mark the holes for the anchors. Use a level to ensure the marks are horizontal.

3. Drill holes: Using a 1/2-inch drill bit, drill holes at the marked points. Keep the drill perpendicular to avoid oval holes. Remove drywall dust with a vacuum.

4. Install snap toggles: Insert each toggle bolt through the bracket and fold its wings. Push the bolt and wings through the hole; pull back gently, so the wings flip open behind the drywall. Slide the plastic collar tight against the wall and snap off the excess. Tighten the bolt to secure the bracket. Repeat for all anchor points.

5. Attach the mount: Once all toggles or mollys are installed, position the mount and start threading each bolt. Tighten them evenly until snug.

6. Add reinforcement (optional): For TVs over 65 inches, screw a plywood plate to the wall first. Use at least four anchors to secure the plate, then attach the mount to the plate with wood screws.

7. Mount the TV: Attach the mounting arms to the TV. Ask a friend to help you lift the TV onto the wall bracket. Secure it with the safety screws included in the mount.

8. Test: Gently pull on the mount to ensure it doesn’t move. Check if everything's level and adjust as needed.

Best anchors to mount a TV on drywall

Different anchors suit different situations:

• Snap toggles: Capable of holding 200 lbs, these are ideal for heavy TVs. They require a large pilot hole but are secure.

• Molly bolts: Good for TVs up to 50 lbs. The expanding sleeve distributes the load. Use a setting tool or hammer to expand them.

• Self-drilling anchors: Suitable for lighter TVs or soundbars. They screw directly into drywall without pre-drilling.

• Monkey hooks: Easy to install but only rated for about 50 lbs. Best for frames or small speakers, not TVs.

🔨 We suggest

Always check the manufacturer’s specifications and avoid mixing different anchor types for the same mount.

Renter-friendly alternatives

Not allowed to drill? To mount a TV without drilling:

• TV stands and consoles: Place the TV on a piece of furniture. Many stands include mounts that attach to the furniture, elevating the TV without wall anchors.

• Floor-to-ceiling tension poles: These poles clamp between the floor and ceiling and support a mounting bracket without damaging the wall. They work well for small to medium TVs.

• Heavy-duty adhesive hooks: Some adhesives support up to 40 lbs. You can hang small TVs with dedicated adhesive mounts (just make sure to follow the curing instructions).

• Furniture risers: A simple pedestal or riser lifts the TV above a cabinet, improving the line of sight without drilling.

Some adhesives may still damage paint or wallpaper, so check your lease before attaching anything.

More pro tips

• Check weight ratings: The total capacity of all your anchors should be at least four times the TV’s weight.

• Don’t overtighten: Over-tightening can strip anchors or crush drywall. Stop when the anchor is snug.

• Use a helper: TVs are bulky and fragile. Have someone hold the TV while you secure it.

• Avoid plumbing and wires: Use a stud finder with wire detection to avoid drilling into hidden pipes or electrical lines.

• Inspect regularly: Periodically check that bolts remain tight and the mount is level. Drywall can compress over time.

Transform your space with MantelMount

Mounting a TV without studs isn’t as intimidating as it seems. Take your time and use high-quality anchors, and you’ll get a clean, modern look. 

And what if you DO have good studs for mounting a TV? MantelMount has the perfect pull-down TV mount for you. With its effortless full range of motion, our mounts bring your TV down to the perfect height and angle, so you can create a fantastic viewing experience. Check out our award-winning TV mounts.