Which media storage towers are best?
So, you’re a bit of a media collector — and it shows. If you have Blu-rays, DVDs, CDs, and video games strewn all over the place, it’s high time to invest in a media storage tower.
Because most collections are perpetually growing, media storage towers aim to optimize space by maximizing storage options. Many designs offer adjustable shelving, while others rotate to give you a 360-degree view of the cases. While media storage towers don’t always boast the curb appeal of other furniture, if you’re willing to invest a little in aesthetics, you’ll be surprised by what you’ll find.
For better visibility and organization of your collection, consider a media storage tower for your home. We’ve put together this buying guide, featuring shopping tips and our top picks.
What to know before you buy media storage towers
Type of media
Not all media cases are the same size, which is why a tower’s capacity is expressed in more than one way. More often than not, the packaging advertises how many CDs and DVDs the tower holds. Keep in mind that Blu-rays are shorter and narrower than DVDs, and video game cases vary considerably between game systems.
Display vs. storage
If display is your main goal with a media storage tower, consider a unit with more curb appeal. Designs with molding, brushed hardware or glass doors are decorative accents that work well with most types of décor.
On the other hand, if storage is the top priority, your best bet is to invest in a tower that maximizes space in more than one way. Rotating designs, as well as those with adjustable shelving, excel in visibility to ensure you can locate your preferred media item effortlessly.
Materials
Media storage towers rarely have the premium construction and materials of genuine furniture pieces, mostly to keep them as wallet-friendly as possible. As a result, most towers are made of wire, MDF, or particle board. They’re lightweight and fairly easy to assemble; however, you may need to anchor them to the wall to prevent them from tipping or tilting.
Size
In the interest of saving floor space, most media storage towers are taller than wider. On average, they’re between three and six feet high — and less than 18 inches wide. For those with an extensive media library, there are oversized designs that can be up to five feet wide.
What to look for in quality media storage towers
Swivel
Media storage towers on swivel bases rotate to offer maximum visibility. They have a more sophisticated design than stationary towers, so assembly can be a bit more challenging — and these designs are usually far more expensive than others.
Doors
Doors are a popular feature, as they prevent dust and dirt from settling on the contents. Wood doors are ideal if you’d like to conceal your media library. Glass doors, on the other hand, are preferred by those who intend to display their collection.
Shelves
While some media storage towers have fixed shelves, many designs offer full adjustability in this department. These designs feature pegboard sides, in which bolts can be moved at any time to lower or raise the shelf. Some people prefer the symmetry of evenly spaced shelves, whereas others vary the height to accommodate decorative accents like picture frames or vases.
How much you can expect to spend on media storage towers
Utilitarian media storage towers with smaller capacities cost $40 or less. Mid-range designs run closer to $75, as they’re constructed better and offer more adjustability options. Media storage towers with attractive furniture-inspired designs can cost $100 or more.
Media storage towers FAQ
Q. In what colors are media storage towers available?
A. Most media storage towers are available in black or espresso, though some are available in lighter finishes that resemble pine, walnut, or oak. Wire towers are usually black, white, or silver.
Q. Can I use my media storage tower to store books?
A. You could, however, it’s important that you confirm the weight limit for each shelf. Some shelves may be too narrow for larger hardcovers, though they should be able to fit most mass-market paperbacks.
What’s the best media storage tower to buy?
Top media storage tower
Venture Horizon 4-Sided Revolving Media Tower
What you need to know: This media tower is available in four colors and can rotate 360 degrees.
What you’ll love: The 360-degree swivel feature is very convenient for accessing your media from any angle. It can also support up to 400 pounds and 1160 CDs, 560 DVDs, 616 Blu-ray discs, 560 Wii games, 560 Xbox games and 560 PS4/PS5 games.
What you should consider: It’s not as sturdy as some people expected.
Top media storage tower for money
Prepac’s Slim Multimedia Storage Tower
What you need to know: This tower has a compact design while still having decent storage space. It’s ideal for small spaces.
What you’ll love: It has impressive quality given the price. It comes with a five-year warranty. It also has a stable base.
What you should consider: It has a small capacity, holding only 65 DVDs.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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