How Much Weight Can Drywall Hold Without a Stud?

Whether you’re hanging a mirror, shelving, or a new TV, the question always comes up: can drywall really hold that weight without a stud? The short answer is yes, but with a big asterisk. Drywall isn’t made to support heavy objects on its own, but with the right techniques and tools, you can securely mount things — including some surprisingly hefty items — without ever finding a stud.

Let’s break down what you need to know.

What Is Drywall Made Of?

Drywall is essentially a sheet of compressed gypsum sandwiched between layers of paper. It’s lightweight and easy to cut, which makes it great for walls and ceilings. Wall studs, the wooden or metal supports behind the drywall, are typically used when mounting anything heavy.

What Changes the Game? Anchors and Specialized Mounts

This is where things get interesting. Drywall can safely hold upwards of 150lbs if you use the right kind of wall anchor or bracket system. Toggle bolts, molly bolts, and expansion anchors are all designed to spread the load behind the wall rather than relying on the paper-thin surface layer of drywall.

Even better? New mounting systems like HangSmart are purpose-built to distribute weight safely across drywall — no studs needed. For example, the HangSmart TV Mount has been tested to hold TVs up to 150 lbs, thanks to its smart engineering and weight distribution. No need to hunt for studs or worry about the wall caving in.

What Changes the Game? Anchors and Specialized Mounts

This is where things get interesting. Drywall can safely hold upwards of 150lbs if you use the right kind of wall anchor or bracket system. Toggle bolts, molly bolts, and expansion anchors are all designed to spread the load behind the wall rather than relying on the paper-thin surface layer of drywall.

Even better? New mounting systems like HangSmart are purpose-built to distribute weight safely across drywall — no studs needed. For example, the HangSmart TV Mount has been tested to hold TVs up to 150 lbs, thanks to its smart engineering and weight distribution. No need to hunt for studs or worry about the wall caving in.

Does Wall Condition Matter?

Absolutely. Older homes may have more brittle drywall or thinner sheets, which can reduce how much weight they can hold. Moisture-damaged walls or patched areas are also weaker. Always check the condition of your wall first, and avoid hanging anything heavy near existing cracks or holes.

Tips for Hanging Heavy Items Without Studs

• Use a mounting system designed for drywall. Avoid generic wall mounts unless they’re specifically rated for no-stud installations.

• Pay attention to the weight limit. Whether you’re using anchors or a bracket, stay well within the recommended range.

• Distribute the weight. The more points of contact your mount has with the wall, the better.

• Level it right. Make sure everything is straight to avoid shifting or tilting over time.

So, What’s the Verdict?

Drywall with the right gear? Quite a lot.

If you’re mounting something valuable — like a TV or soundbar — and want to avoid drilling into studs, go with a trusted, tested system designed for that purpose. It’s safer, easier, and you won’t be left patching up holes if something goes wrong.

HangSmart is one of the best options out there if you want peace of mind with a clean look. No studs, no problem.

Interested to see the test in action? Check out the test results Here:  

INTRODUCTION 

360° Product Testing has been retained to perform 24-hour, approximately 190-pound,1 load tests using supplied Hang Smart TV devices (pictured at right) mounted on Drywall, Cement and Brick vertical surfaces. At the conclusion of the 24-hour test period, the mounts and mounting surface are evaluated for signs of permanent deformation or pullout.

Setup 

Hang Smart TV Mounts were installed in pairs on Drywall, Cement and Brick vertical surfaces using provided measurement tools and hardware (Figure 1) along with a screwdriver and hammer drill. 

An initial drywall setup test was conducted using a weighted steel cable run directly through the mount hooks. However, to better emulate a hung flat panel TV, the method was modified to include the mounting loops attached to a spar of wood mimicking a TV backing, and weighting was then attached to the wood. 

For the brick and cement tests, bricks and cement blocks were first secured and reinforced to support the required testing load. These tests also utilized the same weighted spar of wood. 

The following presents 360° Product Testing’s findings:

Who wouldn't want the easiest way to install their TV while saving money from having to hire a handyman?!?

Shop HangSmart Today!

Check Out How It Works!

Thank you for being a fan!