Here's the consensus:
| Orientation | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Horizontal (flat) | Stable; no tip-over risk; disc tray loads smoothly | Vents on bottom/sides can be blocked by shelf carpet → heat buildup |
| Vertical (stand) | Better airflow (bottom intake, top exhaust); smaller footprint | Can tip if bumped; disc scratch risk if moved while spinning; official stand required |
Both work fine if ventilated—choose what fits your space.