Does IKEA Sell TVs? Unveiling the Truth and Beyond

Let’s cut straight to the chase: no, IKEA does not sell televisions directly. However, the story doesn’t end there. While you won’t find a standalone Samsung or LG TV on IKEA’s showroom floor, IKEA has explored integrating television technology into its furniture solutions, most notably with the now-discontinued UPPLEVA integrated TV and sound system. Let’s dive deeper into why, what happened with UPPLEVA, and what you can find at IKEA to enhance your viewing experience.

The UPPLEVA Experiment: A Glimpse into the Past

The All-in-One Entertainment System

The UPPLEVA was IKEA’s ambitious foray into the integrated home entertainment market. Introduced several years ago, it wasn’t just a TV; it was a complete system. It included a television (sourced from a partner manufacturer, TCL), a sound system (speakers and subwoofer), and storage solutions – all designed to seamlessly integrate with IKEA’s modular furniture. The idea was brilliant: create a cohesive entertainment center that eliminated cable clutter and simplified the setup process. You bought the entire package, and it fit perfectly within your existing IKEA living room setup.

Why UPPLEVA Was Discontinued

Despite its innovative concept, the UPPLEVA ultimately failed to gain widespread traction. Several factors contributed to its demise:

• Rapid Technological Advancements: The consumer electronics market moves at lightning speed. The specifications of the UPPLEVA TVs quickly became outdated compared to newer models from established TV manufacturers. Staying competitive with constantly evolving display technology and features proved challenging for IKEA.
• Brand Perception: While IKEA excels in furniture design and affordability, consumers generally associate the brand with flat-pack furniture, not cutting-edge electronics. Overcoming this perception barrier proved difficult. People often preferred to purchase their TVs from brands they trusted for picture quality and longevity.
• Servicing and Support: Offering after-sales support and repairs for electronics is a specialized field. IKEA likely faced challenges in providing the same level of service as established electronics manufacturers, impacting customer satisfaction.
• Price Point: While designed to be affordable, the UPPLEVA faced competition from budget-friendly TVs offering similar features and specifications from brands solely dedicated to electronics.

While UPPLEVA is no longer available, it serves as a valuable lesson: IKEA recognized the importance of a complete home entertainment experience and attempted to address it through integrated solutions.

What IKEA Offers for Your TV Today

While IKEA doesn’t sell TVs, they offer a wide range of furniture and accessories that perfectly complement your existing television:

• TV Stands and Media Storage: This is where IKEA truly shines. Their BESTÅ system is incredibly versatile, allowing you to create custom media centers with ample storage for consoles, DVDs, and other accessories. They also offer more traditional TV benches in various styles and finishes.
• Wall Mounts: IKEA offers a selection of wall mounts, allowing you to securely mount your TV on the wall for a clean and modern look.
• Sound Systems: While they don’t sell integrated TV/sound combos anymore, IKEA offers a range of standalone speakers and sound systems that can enhance your audio experience.
• Lighting Solutions: Proper lighting is crucial for creating a comfortable viewing environment. IKEA offers a wide variety of lamps, spotlights, and LED strips to minimize glare and enhance the overall ambiance.
• Comfortable Seating: No home theater is complete without comfortable seating. IKEA offers a wide range of sofas, armchairs, and recliners perfect for relaxing and enjoying your favorite shows and movies.
• Cable Management Solutions: Tame those unsightly cables with IKEA’s range of cable management solutions. From cable ties to cord covers, they have everything you need to keep your entertainment center looking neat and organized.

In short, IKEA provides the furniture ecosystem to house and enhance your chosen television, creating a stylish and functional entertainment space.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Will IKEA ever sell TVs again?

It’s difficult to say definitively. While the UPPLEVA experiment didn’t work out, IKEA is constantly innovating. If they can find a way to offer a compelling and competitive television solution that aligns with their brand and business model, they might re-enter the market in the future. However, for now, the focus remains on furniture and accessories that complement existing TVs.

2. What is the best IKEA TV stand for a large TV?

The BESTÅ system is generally considered the best option for large TVs. Its modular design allows you to create a unit that perfectly accommodates the size and weight of your television. You can also customize the storage options to suit your needs. Consider the width and depth of your TV when planning your BESTÅ configuration.

3. How do I hide cables behind my IKEA TV stand?

IKEA offers several cable management solutions, including:

• Cable Trays: Attach these to the back of your TV stand to conceal cables.
• Cable Clips: Use these to organize and route cables along the back of the stand.
• Cable Management Boxes: These boxes can hide power strips and excess cable length.
• Holes in Furniture: Many IKEA TV stands feature pre-drilled holes specifically for cable management.

4. Can I mount my TV on an IKEA wall panel?

Yes, but you need to ensure that the wall panel is strong enough to support the weight of your TV. Use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall behind the panel and attach the TV mount to the studs for maximum stability. Also, be sure to use the correct type of screws for the wall material.

5. Does IKEA offer any warranties on their TV stands?

Yes, IKEA offers warranties on many of their products, including TV stands. The length of the warranty varies depending on the specific product. Check the product information online or in-store for details.

6. Are IKEA TV stands easy to assemble?

Generally, yes. IKEA furniture is designed for easy assembly with clear instructions and the necessary hardware included. However, some larger or more complex TV stands may require more time and effort to assemble. Consider having a friend help, especially with larger items.

7. What is the maximum weight capacity of an IKEA TV stand?

The maximum weight capacity varies depending on the specific TV stand. Check the product information online or in-store for the weight capacity before purchasing. Do not exceed the weight limit to prevent damage to the stand or your TV.

8. Does IKEA offer installation services for TV stands?

In some areas, IKEA offers assembly services for a fee. Check with your local IKEA store or visit their website to see if this service is available in your area.

9. What are some alternatives to the BESTÅ system for TV storage?

Other IKEA options include:

• HEMNES: A solid wood series with a more traditional look.
• BRIMNES: A budget-friendly series with a simple and modern design.
• LACK: A lightweight and affordable series, ideal for smaller TVs.

10. Where can I find reviews of IKEA TV stands?

You can find reviews of IKEA TV stands on the IKEA website, on third-party review sites like Amazon, and on YouTube. Pay attention to reviews that mention the specific model you’re interested in.

11. What tools do I need to assemble an IKEA TV stand?

Typically, you’ll need:

• A screwdriver (both Phillips and flathead)
• A hammer
• A measuring tape
• A level
• A drill (for wall mounting)

IKEA often includes an Allen wrench with their furniture, but having your own tools can make the assembly process easier and faster.

12. How do I choose the right size TV stand for my TV?

Consider these factors:

• TV Size: The width of the TV stand should be at least as wide as the TV’s screen width.
• Viewing Distance: Choose a stand height that places the TV at eye level when you’re seated.
• Storage Needs: Choose a stand with enough storage for your consoles, DVDs, and other accessories.
• Room Size: Consider the overall size of your room and choose a stand that doesn’t overwhelm the space.

In conclusion, while you won’t buy a TV from IKEA, you can build an amazing entertainment center around your TV with IKEA’s diverse and stylish furniture solutions. Focus on creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing space that enhances your viewing experience.