How to hide TV wires: your options

First, count your cables

Before choosing how to hide them, list what actually needs to reach the TV:

• The TV's power cable.
• HDMI cables from a cable or satellite box, game console or streaming box.
• A soundbar, which adds its own power and usually an HDMI cable.
• Sometimes an ethernet cable, if you want a wired internet connection.

A streaming stick that plugs straight into the TV and Wi-Fi can cut that list down to almost nothing. A full home-theater setup can make it long.

Option 1: in the wall

The cleanest look. Cables go into the wall behind the TV and come out lower down, near the devices, so nothing shows at all.

• Best on drywall, where there is a hollow space between the studs.
• Power needs care. A TV's regular power cord is not meant to run loose inside a wall. In-wall setups use a power kit rated for in-wall use, or an outlet behind the TV.
• Harder on masonry. Solid brick, concrete and stone usually have no cavity to work with. See drywall vs brick.
• Fire blocks and insulation on exterior walls can get in the way, so interior walls are usually easier.

Option 2: a cord cover (raceway)

A slim channel stuck or screwed to the wall that the cables run inside. It is quick and works on almost any wall, including brick. Many can be painted to match the wall, which makes them much less noticeable.

Option 3: behind the furniture

If the TV is low enough, a console or media cabinet directly under it can hide the cables. This works best when the bottom of the TV sits close to the top of the furniture.

Option 4: fewer cables

Use the TV's built-in apps or a streaming stick, connect the soundbar with a single HDMI cable, and use Wi-Fi where it is reliable. Some TVs, such as many Samsung Frame models, move all the inputs to a separate box joined to the TV by one thin cable, which makes the run to the wall much tidier.

How we handle it

Basic in-wall wire concealment is included with every Reno TV Mount install. If you have more to hide, extra wire concealment (hiding of your power and HDMI Cables in the wall) is +$25. Not sure which you need? Tell us what you're connecting in your quote notes, or call 775-247-7782.