What provides the best support when attaching an item to a hollow wall?

The best support when attaching an item to a hollow wall is achieved by using a stud. Studs are vertical wooden or metal framing members that form the structure of walls. When an item is secured to a stud, it is fastened to a solid, load-bearing component of the wall, which provides greater weight support and stability. This is especially important for hanging heavy items or shelves, as securing directly to a stud minimizes the risk of the item pulling away from the wall or damaging the wall structure.

While other methods, such as using drywall anchors or toggle bolts, can provide support in hollow walls, they don't offer the same level of strength and reliability as attaching directly to a stud. Drywall anchors work by expanding behind the drywall to hold fasteners, while toggle bolts spread the load over a larger area but may not handle heavy items as securely as a stud would. Using a screw alone isn't ideal without an anchor or a stud, as it won't provide sufficient grip in the hollow space. Therefore, securing items to a stud is always recommended for the best support in a hollow wall application.