VESA 400x400 vs 600x400
VESA 400x400 and 600x400 describe the spacing between the TV’s mounting holes, not the TV’s screen size. Learn how to verify the wider 600x400 pattern, weight rating, recessed holes, and installation clearance before choosing a bracket.
The short answer
A VESA 400x400 pattern has mounting holes 400 mm apart horizontally and 400 mm apart vertically. A VESA 600x400 pattern has holes 600 mm apart horizontally and 400 mm apart vertically.
The key difference is the wider horizontal spacing. A bracket must explicitly support the TV’s 600x400 pattern—or provide a verified mounting range that includes it. A mount rated for 400x400 alone should not be assumed to fit a 600x400 TV.
Before buying, match all of these:
- The TV’s exact VESA pattern
- The TV weight without its stand
- The mount’s supported VESA patterns or mounting range
- The mount’s maximum weight rating
- The mount’s supported screen-size range, if specified
- Recessed mounting holes and the correct spacers
- Port, cable, wall, and installation clearances
What 400x400 and 600x400 mean
VESA dimensions identify the distance between the centers of the mounting holes on the back of the TV. The first number is normally the horizontal spacing, and the second is the vertical spacing.
| VESA pattern | Horizontal hole spacing | Vertical hole spacing | Shape |
|---|---|---|---|
| 400x400 | 400 mm | 400 mm | Square |
| 600x400 | 600 mm | 400 mm | Wider rectangle |
These dimensions are not the TV’s width, diagonal screen size, or overall chassis dimensions. A large TV may use 400x400, 600x400, or another pattern, so screen size alone cannot confirm compatibility.
Why the 600x400 pattern needs special attention
A 600x400 TV places its mounting holes farther apart horizontally than a 400x400 TV. The bracket’s mounting rails, arms, or mounting plate must reach those outer holes without forcing the hardware, overlapping an obstruction, or exceeding the design of the mount.
Some universal mounts support several patterns, but the product specifications must list 600x400 or a range that clearly includes it. Do not infer compatibility from the mount’s size label alone.
Verify the exact TV and mount requirements
1. Find the TV’s VESA pattern
Check the TV’s model-specific documentation, manufacturer specifications, or the mounting-hole measurements on the back of the TV.
If measuring the TV:
- Measure from the center of one mounting hole to the center of the hole directly across from it.
- Measure the vertical distance between the centers of the upper and lower holes.
- Record the result in millimeters.
- Confirm that the holes form the pattern stated in the TV documentation.
For example:
- Approximately 400 mm horizontally and 400 mm vertically indicates 400x400.
- Approximately 600 mm horizontally and 400 mm vertically indicates 600x400.
Measure carefully. The hole centers—not the outside edges of the holes or the TV panel—determine the VESA pattern.
2. Check the mount’s supported VESA pattern
Look for a specification such as:
- Supported VESA: 400x400
- Supported VESA: 200x200 to 600x400
- Supported VESA: up to a stated horizontal and vertical spacing
The wording must cover both dimensions. A mount that reaches 600 mm horizontally but not 400 mm vertically is not a confirmed match, and neither is a mount that supports 400x400 only.
If the mount documentation does not state whether it supports 600x400, contact the manufacturer or choose a model with clearly documented support.
3. Compare the TV weight without the stand
Use the TV’s weight without its table stand, base, or detachable feet. Then compare it with the mount’s stated maximum load.
TV weight without stand <= mount maximum weight rating
Treat this as a basic requirement, not a complete compatibility test. A mount can have a sufficient weight rating and still fail to fit the TV’s VESA pattern, recessed holes, or cable layout.
Do not use shipping weight unless the manufacturer clearly identifies it as the installed TV weight. Packaging, accessories, and the stand can make shipping weight unsuitable for this comparison.
4. Check the mount’s supported size range
A mount’s advertised screen-size range can be useful, but it does not replace the VESA and weight checks. Size ranges may reflect the mount’s intended use, movement, stability, or physical clearance.
Confirm all three independently:
- Your TV’s diagonal size falls within the stated range, if one is provided.
- Your TV’s VESA pattern is supported.
- Your TV’s weight is within the mount’s rating.
Recessed holes and spacers
Some TVs have mounting holes set into a recessed area rather than flush with the back panel. This can affect how the mounting arms or plate sits against the TV.
Check the following before installation:
- Whether the mount includes spacers for recessed holes
- Whether the spacers are approved for the mount and TV installation
- Whether the supplied screws reach the threaded holes correctly
- Whether the screw length avoids bottoming out inside the TV
- Whether the mounting plate or rails press against the TV’s housing
- Whether the mounting hardware remains fully engaged after spacers are installed
Do not add washers, spacers, or replacement screws simply to make the plate sit level unless the mount instructions permit that arrangement. Use the hardware and spacer configuration specified for the installation, and consult the TV or mount manufacturer when the required screw length is unclear.
Port and cable clearance
A 600x400 pattern can place the mounting hardware farther toward the sides of a large TV, but the exact relationship between the holes, ports, and chassis varies by model. Inspect the back of the TV rather than assuming the mount will clear every connector.
Check for:
- HDMI, USB, Ethernet, optical, antenna, and power connections
- Downward-facing and side-facing ports
- Cable plugs that extend behind the TV
- The TV’s power-cable exit and bend radius
- Wall plates, recessed outlets, and cable channels
- The mount’s thickness and any tilt mechanism behind the TV
A fixed mount may leave less room for cables than a tilting or extending mount, depending on its design. An articulating mount also needs enough space to move without pulling cables or striking the wall.
Before tightening everything, connect or test-fit the cables where practical. Leave enough slack for the TV’s intended tilt or movement, but avoid loose loops that can become pinched behind the bracket.
Mount type and the 600x400 pattern
The correct VESA pattern is necessary for every mount type, but the installation consequences differ.
Fixed mounts
Fixed mounts usually place the TV close to the wall. Confirm that the cable connectors, power outlet, and recessed holes can be accommodated at the mount’s installed depth.
Tilting mounts
Tilting mounts can improve viewing angle and may create temporary access to rear ports. They still need to support the complete 600x400 pattern and the TV’s weight in the specified position.
Full-motion mounts
Full-motion mounts must support the TV while the arm is extended and moving. Check the mount’s published limits and installation instructions carefully. Do not assume that a mount’s maximum weight rating or screen-size label alone confirms safe full-motion use with your TV.
Wall and installation fit
VESA compatibility concerns the TV-to-mount connection. It does not confirm that the wall can safely support the combined installation.
Identify the wall construction before drilling:
- Wood-stud wall
- Concrete or masonry
- Metal-stud wall
- Drywall without a suitable structural fastening point
- A different or uncertain construction
Use only fasteners and installation methods approved for the wall type and the specific mount. Do not rely on drywall alone for a heavy TV mount unless the mount documentation specifically provides a suitable method for that condition. For uncertain walls, unusual framing, or a heavy full-motion installation, obtain qualified installation advice.
Locate the mounting points, check for utilities, and follow the mount’s required spacing and hardware instructions. The mounting surface must be suitable for the mount’s load and movement—not just wide enough for a 600x400 plate.
Mounting height and viewing position
The 400x400 versus 600x400 decision does not determine mounting height. Choose height based on the primary seating position, eye level, viewing angle, furniture, and whether the mount will tilt.
Before drilling:
- Confirm the TV’s overall dimensions and the position of its VESA holes.
- Account for the mount’s offset from the wall.
- Mark the desired screen center, not merely the center of the mounting plate.
- Check that outlets, trim, furniture, and cable routes remain accessible.
- For a tilting or full-motion mount, verify the full range of movement.
The VESA holes may not be centered vertically on the TV. Measure the distance from the hole pattern to the top and bottom edges so the final screen position matches your plan.
Compatibility checklist
Use this checklist before ordering or installing the bracket:
- [ ] I know the TV’s exact model.
- [ ] I verified the TV’s VESA pattern from reliable model documentation or careful measurement.
- [ ] I confirmed whether the pattern is 400x400 or 600x400.
- [ ] The mount specifications explicitly support the TV’s complete VESA pattern.
- [ ] The TV weight is the weight without its stand.
- [ ] The TV weight is no greater than the mount’s maximum rating.
- [ ] The TV size falls within the mount’s stated range, if applicable.
- [ ] I checked for recessed mounting holes.
- [ ] The required spacers and screw arrangement are documented.
- [ ] Screw length and thread engagement are appropriate for the TV and mount.
- [ ] The mount will not block ports, power connections, or cable paths.
- [ ] The wall type and fastening method are suitable for the mount.
- [ ] The planned height leaves room for furniture, outlets, and cables.
- [ ] A tilting or full-motion mount has enough operating clearance.
- [ ] I have followed the TV and mount manufacturers’ installation instructions.
If your TV uses 600x400, start by selecting a mount whose specifications clearly include 600x400 rather than trying to adapt a 400x400-only bracket. Once the pattern, weight, wall, hardware, and clearance checks are complete, you can Browse TV mounts or review TV mounts & stands.