Shopping for a motorised TV lift and weighing up Nexus 21? It pays to see the alternatives before you commit. Nexus 21 is a strong, premium brand, but it is not the only option. Tono is a Nexus 21 alternative that covers the same jobs, often at a more accessible price and with direct purchase. This guide compares the two honestly, so you can pick the right fit.
Who is Nexus 21?
Nexus 21 is a US manufacturer based in Arizona, known for premium motorised TV lifts and mounts. Its range covers pop-up lifts, drop-down ceiling lifts, flip-down ceiling mounts, motorised wall mounts, and projector lifts. The products are quiet, well engineered, and sold mainly through professional AV integrators. Pricing is quote-based, and the brand backs its units with a long warranty and lifetime support.
In short, Nexus 21 is a top-tier choice for high-end custom installs. That quality comes at a premium price, usually through a dealer.
Where Tono fits as a Nexus 21 alternative
Tono is a motorised-lift manufacturer with a broad catalogue: pop-up TV lifts, drop-down and flip-down ceiling lifts, motorised wall mounts, under-bed lifts, plus projector and kitchen lifts.
Two things make Tono a practical Nexus 21 alternative. You buy direct from the manufacturer with clear pricing, and Tono ships to the US with duties handled. You also get a comparable feature set, including silent motors, an RF remote, preset positions, and anti-collision safety, without the integrator-only channel.
Nexus 21 vs Tono: how they compare
| Feature | Nexus 21 | Tono |
|---|---|---|
| Lift types | Pop-up, ceiling drop-down, flip-down, wall mount, projector | Pop-up, ceiling drop-down, flip-down, wall mount, projector, under-bed, kitchen |
| Max TV size | Up to 86″ | Up to ~100″ |
| Noise | Around 45 dB | Under 50 dB |
| Control | RF remote, IR/IP integration | RF remote, presets, anti-collision stop |
| How you buy | Through AV integrators, quote-based | Direct from manufacturer, listed pricing |
| Warranty | Long, industry-leading | 3 years |
| Availability | US-made | Ships worldwide, including the US |
Both brands build quiet, reliable lifts with no exposed tracks or gears. The real differences come down to price, how you buy, and warranty length.
When Nexus 21 is the better choice
To be fair, Nexus 21 wins in a few cases. Choose it if you want a US-made product, you already work with an AV integrator, you want the longest possible warranty, or you prefer domestic phone support. For a no-compromise custom install with a dealer managing the project, Nexus 21 is a safe pick.
When Tono is the better alternative
Tono makes more sense if you want to buy direct without a dealer, you want clear pricing up front, or you need a lift for a very large TV up to around 100 inches. It also helps if you want formats Nexus 21 does not focus on, such as under-bed or kitchen lifts. For value-minded buyers who still want silent, remote-controlled motorised lifts, Tono is a strong Nexus 21 alternative.
The Tono motorised TV lift range
Tono covers the same core jobs as Nexus 21:
- Pop-up TV lifts that raise a TV from a cabinet or the floor.
- Drop-down ceiling lifts that lower a TV from the ceiling.
- Flip-down ceiling mounts for tight or high spaces.
- Motorised wall mounts that adjust height and angle.
See the full motorised TV lift guide to match a lift to your room, or contact Tono for a quote.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a cheaper alternative to Nexus 21?
Tono is a more accessible alternative. You buy direct from the manufacturer with listed pricing, rather than a quote through an AV dealer, while keeping silent motors and remote control.
Does Tono ship to the US?
Yes. Tono ships to the US with duties handled, so you can order direct from the manufacturer.
What size TVs do Tono lifts support?
Tono’s range covers small to very large screens, up to around 100 inches and 100 kg, depending on the model.
Are Tono lifts as quiet as Nexus 21?
Both run quietly. Nexus 21 quotes around 45 dB, and Tono’s motors run under 50 dB, so both suit living rooms and bedrooms.
Specifications and pricing change over time. Confirm current details with each manufacturer before you buy.

