TV Lift Guide: How to Choose a Linear Actuator for Your TV Lift Cabinet
A motorized TV lift hides your television inside a cabinet or furniture piece and raises it on demand. This guide helps you choose the right linear actuator based on your TV weight, travel distance, and control preference.
Step 1: Know Your TV Weight
TV weight is the most important factor. Weigh your TV (including any mounting bracket) and use the table below to find the right actuator.
| TV Weight | Recommended Force | HyHaven Model |
|---|---|---|
| Under 40 lbs | 900N (202 lbs) | HyHaven 900N High Speed |
| 40–80 lbs | 1500N (337 lbs) | HyHaven 1500N Electric |
| Over 80 lbs | 6000N (1320 lbs) | HyHaven 6000N Heavy Duty |
Tip: Most 55–65" TVs weigh 40–70 lbs. A 75"+ TV typically exceeds 80 lbs.
Step 2: Choose the Right Stroke Length
Stroke = the vertical distance your TV travels from fully hidden to fully raised.
| TV Travel Distance | Stroke to Order |
|---|---|
| Up to 10" | 10" (250mm) stroke |
| Up to 12" | 12" (300mm) stroke |
| Up to 16" | 16" (400mm) stroke |
| Up to 18" | 18" (450mm) stroke |
Step 3: Speed
- 10mm/s (900N) — Fast. TV raises in 3–5 seconds. Great for frequent daily use.
- 6mm/s (1500N) — Smooth and quiet (under 45dB). Better for bedroom or living room.
Step 4: How Many Actuators?
- 1 actuator — TVs under 40 lbs with a centered mount
- 2 actuators — TVs over 40 lbs or wide platforms for stable, balanced lifting
Recommended Actuators
Best for Most TVs (Under 40 lbs): HyHaven 900N High Speed
Fast 10mm/s speed means your TV is up and ready in seconds.
- Force: 900N (202 lbs) | Speed: 10mm/s | Voltage: 12V or 24V | Stroke: 2"–18"
For Heavier TVs (40–80 lbs): HyHaven 1500N Electric
More force with smooth, near-silent movement under 45dB.
- Force: 1500N (337 lbs) | Speed: 6mm/s | Voltage: 12V or 24V | Stroke: 2"–18"
Control Options
- Wireless remote kit — Raise and lower your TV from the couch
- Wired controller kit — Fixed wall or furniture-mounted switch
- Smart home relay — Voice control via Home Assistant or Alexa
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a linear actuator for a TV lift?
Yes. Linear actuators provide controlled, smooth vertical motion with built-in limit switches that auto-stop at full extension and retraction.
Q: Do I need 1 or 2 actuators?
For TVs under 40 lbs with a centered mount, one is sufficient. For heavier TVs or wide platforms, use two for balanced lifting.
Q: Will the TV stay in position when power is off?
Yes. All HyHaven actuators use a self-locking screw drive — your TV will not drift or drop when the actuator is not running.
🤔 Not sure which actuator fits your project? Use our Linear Actuator Selection Guide to compare all models.
🚪 Also building a cabinet door opener? See our Cabinet Automation Guide.
🛌️ Building an RV bed lift? See our RV Bed Lift Guide.