Video Electronics Standards Association, and in Tv-mount Shopping, a VESA Size or Pattern Describes the Spacing Between the Mounting Holes

The pattern is measured in millimeters, with the first number representing the horizontal distance between holes and the second the vertical distance. For example, a 400 × 200 pattern means holes are 400mm apart horizontally and 200mm vertically. A VESA mount isn't one particular style of bracket; it simply supports one or more of those standardized patterns.

The numbers don't describe the TV's resolution or screen dimensions. While larger TVs often use larger mounting patterns, screen size alone doesn't tell you which pattern a particular model uses, so checking your exact TV model is more reliable than guessing. Many mounts support multiple VESA patterns, so you don't need a bracket labeled only for your exact size.

Your TV's pattern just needs to appear on the mount's list of supported patterns. The easiest way to find your TV's pattern is to look up the exact model in its manual or on the manufacturer's support page, where the wall-mount or VESA specifications are commonly listed in millimeters. If you can't find the specification, you can measure the mounting holes yourself.

Measure from the center of one mounting hole to the center of the corresponding hole horizontally, then do the same vertically, and write the result as horizontal × vertical in millimeters. For instance, if the holes are 400mm apart horizontally and 200mm apart vertically, the TV has a 400 × 200 VESA pattern. A matching VESA pattern tells you the bracket can line up with the TV's mounting holes, but it doesn't tell you whether the mount can safely hold the TV.

The next specification to check is the mount's weight limit, comparing its maximum load with the weight of your TV. A bracket can support the correct VESA pattern and still be unsuitable for a TV that's too heavy. VESA compatibility also says nothing about how the bracket should attach to the wall. Once you've confirmed the pattern and weight rating, use the TV manufacturer's instructions to check the required mounting screws and follow the mount manufacturer's instructions for attaching the bracket to the wall.