Review of Mounting Dream MD2296 Full Motion TV Wall Mount for 42-84 Inch TVs

Description

Impressive Design and Build Quality

I recently tested the Mounting Dream MD2296 TV Wall Mount, and its sturdy construction and thoughtful design immediately stood out. This mount is crafted with dual articulating arms that scream durability. The robotic welding technology ensures a solid build, making it a reliable choice for holding TVs weighing up to 100 pounds. The matte black finish gives it a sleek and modern look, blending seamlessly with my living room décor. I appreciated the inclusion of eva pads on the wall plate, which act as a cushion to protect both the wall and the mount. It’s clear that safety was a priority in the design, which is reassuring for those with kids or pets running around.

Ease of Installation

Installing this full-motion TV mount was simpler than I anticipated. The package came with clear instructions, a paper template, and pre-labeled screws and spacers, which eliminated any guesswork. Additionally, the level tool included was a lifesaver for ensuring the mount was perfectly aligned. Although the anchors for concrete walls weren’t included, the customer service team was quick to offer assistance, which I found impressive. However, it’s important to note that this mount is not designed for drywall installation, which could limit its compatibility for some users. The provided Velcro strips for cable management were a thoughtful touch, keeping everything neat and organized behind the TV.

Viewing Flexibility and Motion

One of the key benefits of this mount is its range of motion. The 6 articulating arms allow the TV to extend up to 16.6 inches from the wall or retract back to just 2.5 inches, which is fantastic for saving space when needed. I found the tilt feature (5° up and 15° down) incredibly handy for reducing glare, especially during the daytime. The 45° swivel was perfect for adjusting the viewing angle when I was lounging on the couch or working at the kitchen counter. The ability to fine-tune the level by 4° added another layer of customization, ensuring the TV was perfectly aligned even after installation.

Highlights

• Durable dual-arm construction supports TVs up to 100 pounds.
• Wide compatibility with TVs ranging from 42 to 84 inches and a max VESA of 600x400mm.
• Full-motion adjustments, including tilt, swivel, and extension, enhance viewing flexibility.
• Thoughtful extras like a paper template, level tool, and Velcro cable management strips simplify installation.

Areas for Improvement

Despite its many strengths, there are a few areas of concern with this mount:

• It is not suitable for drywall-only installations, which could be a dealbreaker for some users.
• The lack of included concrete anchors adds a minor inconvenience for those planning to install it on concrete walls.
• While the tilt and swivel features are robust, they might feel overly rigid at first. However, they tend to loosen up slightly with regular use.

Competing Products

Comparing the Mounting Dream MD2296 to other mounts on the market, it holds its own in several key areas. For example, the Sanus Full-Motion TV Mount offers similar features but often comes at a higher price point, making it less attractive for budget-conscious buyers. On the other hand, the Echogear Full Motion Mount provides smoother motion adjustments but lacks the durable dual-arm construction that makes the MD2296 so reliable. While some competitors include more extensive installation kits, they often fall short in terms of stability and safety features. I’d say this mount strikes a great balance between affordability, functionality, and durability.

Smart Spending

For its price range, this mount offers incredible value for money. The robust build quality, full-motion capabilities, and thoughtful extras like cable management make it a standout choice. While it’s not the cheapest option available, the peace of mind from its stability and safety features more than justifies the investment. I’ve tested mounts that wobble under pressure or sag over time, but this one feels built to last. If you’re looking for a product that combines affordability with premium features, this wall mount is definitely worth considering.

Additional information