Quick answer: To choose a TV cabinet, measure the television’s full width and foot span, then check the cabinet’s top, room clearance and storage openings. A unit wider than the TV usually looks balanced; at minimum, confirm the TV feet sit fully and safely on the surface. Measure plugs, cables and devices before choosing a size.
A well-chosen TV cabinet does more than hold a screen. It gives streaming boxes, game consoles and remotes a home, manages the cable clutter, and helps the living room feel finished. If you are comparing a TV cabinet in NZ, an entertainment unit or a media console, start with the dimensions and the way you use your room.
This guide covers the measurements people often miss, the difference between open and closed storage, and how to choose a TV unit in NZ that suits your space and style.
1. Measure your TV and the wall—not just the screen size
A television’s advertised size is its diagonal measurement. It does not tell you how wide the TV is. Check the manufacturer’s width, including the frame, then compare it with the cabinet width and the wall space available.
As a starting point, many rooms look balanced when the cabinet extends beyond both sides of the TV. The exact amount depends on your screen, room and furniture layout, so use a tape measure and mark the proposed cabinet width on the wall before ordering.
Measure these five things: TV width; available wall width; cabinet width, depth and height; the position of power and aerial points; and the footprint needed for soundbars, consoles or speakers.
2. Choose a height and depth that work in your living room
Your screen should feel comfortable to watch from your usual seat. If the TV is wall-mounted, check that the cabinet will not obstruct the mount, cables or soundbar. If the TV will sit on the cabinet, confirm that its feet fit securely on the top and follow the TV maker’s support guidance.
Depth matters too. A deeper entertainment unit can provide useful storage, but it may narrow a walkway in a smaller room. Measure from the wall to the front edge of the cabinet and check that doors, drawers and nearby seating can still be used comfortably.
3. Match storage to your devices and daily habits
Open shelving keeps devices easy to reach and can help with airflow. Closed cupboards hide accessories and make the room look tidier. A combination of both works well when you want consoles or a modem accessible while keeping remotes, cables and other items out of sight.
| Storage style | Works well for | Check before buying |
|---|---|---|
| Open shelves | Devices you use often, soundbars, consoles and décor | Shelf height, depth, cable access and ventilation |
| Closed cupboards | Remotes, spare cables and items you want hidden | Door clearance, device ventilation and remote-control signal access |
| Mixed storage | A balance of accessible equipment and a tidy-looking room | Whether each device fits the shelf or cabinet where you plan to place it |
4. Plan for cables, ventilation and sound
Before choosing a TV stand in NZ, count the devices that need a connection: TV, router, game console, set-top box, soundbar and any chargers. Look for cable openings or a practical route behind the unit, and make sure plugs can be reached after installation.
Electronics can need space around them to release heat. Avoid packing warm devices into a tightly enclosed compartment unless the product and device instructions allow it. If you use a soundbar, check its width and height against the available top or shelf space, and avoid blocking its speakers.
5. Pick a finish that belongs with the rest of the room
Natural wood tones can soften a room and pair easily with neutral sofas. Fluted or patterned fronts add texture, while darker finishes can create a stronger focal point. Think about the floor, coffee table and other large pieces first; matching every finish exactly is not necessary, but repeating one or two tones can make the room feel intentional.
Compare the real dimensions before you choose
Product names and screen-inch labels make it hard to picture furniture in a room. Compare the listed width, depth and height with your measurements. For example, the Halo unit is 130 × 40 × 50 cm, while the Sapphire Palace entertainment unit is 200 × 40 × 47 cm. Both are 40 cm deep, but the second option needs 70 cm more wall width.
| Example unit | Listed dimensions (W × D × H) | Room-fit check |
|---|---|---|
| Halo Entertainment Unit – Ash | 130 × 40 × 50 cm | Check that the TV feet fit and allow room for the side cupboards to slide open. |
| Sapphire Palace Entertainment Unit | 200 × 40 × 47 cm | Measure the full wall span; this unit is 70 cm wider than the Halo example. |
These are examples from current product listings, not universal size recommendations. Confirm the exact configuration and measurements on the product page before ordering.
TV cabinet ideas from Harbour Furniture
Use the product dimensions and current configuration details on each product page to check fit before ordering. Product availability and options can change.
Halo Entertainment Unit – Ash
At 130 × 40 × 50 cm, this compact unit combines a central open shelf with concealed side cupboards and slatted sliding doors. A useful option when you want media access and a calmer-looking living room.
View product details
Velmora Modern Fluted TV Stand & Media Console
Fluted-style fronts, open shelving and cabinet storage give this media console a more decorative look while making room for everyday living-room items. Check the product page for current module choices and measurements.
View product details
Sapphire Palace Entertainment & Coffee Table Set
A coordinated unit-and-coffee-table option for bringing a shared finish into the living room. The entertainment unit is listed at 200 × 40 × 47 cm; check the live product page for current details and terms.
View product detailsBrowse the full TV cabinets and entertainment units collection to compare more styles and sizes.
Final checklist before you order
- Measure the TV’s actual width and the available wall space.
- Confirm the unit’s width, height and depth fit your room and walkways.
- Check shelf openings against your devices, soundbar and gaming console.
- Plan access to power points, cable routes and ventilation.
- Confirm the TV’s feet or wall mount are compatible with your setup.
- Review assembly, delivery and current product details on the listing.
Frequently asked questions
How wide should a TV cabinet be?
Measure the TV’s full width rather than relying on its diagonal screen size. Many people prefer a cabinet wider than the TV for visual balance, but the best proportion depends on your room and layout. Also confirm the TV’s feet sit safely on the cabinet if it is not wall-mounted.
What is the difference between a TV unit and an entertainment unit?
The terms are often used for similar furniture. A TV unit or TV stand usually describes a cabinet supporting a television, while an entertainment unit may also offer more storage for media devices and accessories. Check the dimensions and layout instead of relying on the product name alone.
Should I choose open shelves or cabinet doors?
Open shelves make devices easy to access and can support airflow. Cabinet doors hide clutter, but check ventilation and whether your remotes can communicate with devices inside. A combination can work well if you have both frequently used electronics and accessories to store.
What should I measure before buying a media console?
Measure the television, wall, cabinet footprint, device and soundbar dimensions, and the position of outlets. Include clearance for cables, ventilation, cabinet doors and the route you use to walk through the room.
Still deciding which size or layout suits your room? Contact the Harbour Furniture team or explore the complete entertainment unit range.
