Hello everyone,
I am planning to assemble an IKEA KALLAX unit as a TV stand. Since I want to combine several KALLAX elements stacked and side by side, I’m wondering: how stable or wobbly is such a setup when used as a TV stand? I’m especially interested in whether the shelves are sturdy enough just with the included connectors, or if additional reinforcements are needed.
The issue is that my TV weighs about 15 kg (33 lbs) and is relatively large, and I also have other electronic devices that I want to place on and inside the unit. Can anyone with experience say if the stand becomes too unstable, especially when the KALLAX elements are stacked or combined? I’ve read that the individual shelves are quite stable, but when connected they can apparently become “wobbly.”
Also, I’d like to know if the unit should be anchored to the wall or if it is safe without wall mounting.
I look forward to your assessments and advice! Thanks in advance!
I am planning to assemble an IKEA KALLAX unit as a TV stand. Since I want to combine several KALLAX elements stacked and side by side, I’m wondering: how stable or wobbly is such a setup when used as a TV stand? I’m especially interested in whether the shelves are sturdy enough just with the included connectors, or if additional reinforcements are needed.
The issue is that my TV weighs about 15 kg (33 lbs) and is relatively large, and I also have other electronic devices that I want to place on and inside the unit. Can anyone with experience say if the stand becomes too unstable, especially when the KALLAX elements are stacked or combined? I’ve read that the individual shelves are quite stable, but when connected they can apparently become “wobbly.”
Also, I’d like to know if the unit should be anchored to the wall or if it is safe without wall mounting.
I look forward to your assessments and advice! Thanks in advance!
For brackets, I recommend narrow metal brackets about 5 cm (2 inches) wide. Screw them in from the inside so they are not visible. Make sure the brackets fit flush; otherwise, they will obstruct when loading.
Wooden battens: 20 x 40 mm (0.8 x 1.6 inches) are usually sufficient. A clear varnish protects against moisture and looks better.
Wooden battens: 20 x 40 mm (0.8 x 1.6 inches) are usually sufficient. A clear varnish protects against moisture and looks better.
I can only agree that mounting the unit securely to the wall really makes all the difference!
I was also concerned about it wobbling—especially since I listen to loud music and often reach forward from the couch—but it has been very stable since I properly fixed the KALLAX to the wall for my TV and gaming console.
You will likely find similar feedback from many others who repurpose the KALLAX as a TV stand.
Also, by securing access to the cables (for example, behind the unit), you can prevent accidental pulling, which can improve overall stability.
I was also concerned about it wobbling—especially since I listen to loud music and often reach forward from the couch—but it has been very stable since I properly fixed the KALLAX to the wall for my TV and gaming console.
You will likely find similar feedback from many others who repurpose the KALLAX as a TV stand.
Also, by securing access to the cables (for example, behind the unit), you can prevent accidental pulling, which can improve overall stability.
Goixkin schrieb:
For brackets, I recommend narrow metal ones, about 5 cm (2 inches) wide. Screw them in from the inside so they aren’t visible.Thank you very much, Goixkin! That helps me a lot.
JAFUHAU schrieb:
The wall mounting really makes the crucial difference!The importance of wall mounting is clearly confirmed by everyone. I will definitely do it that way.
I have one last question for the group: How about the weight when additional equipment like speakers, AV receivers, and gaming consoles are placed in the compartments? Does KALLAX hold up well over time, or does that become too much?
Maybe someone has a clear opinion or experience on this?
I have long-term speakers and a receiver placed in one of the compartments of my KALLAX shelf. It’s important to distribute the weight evenly.
Another key point is not to overload the shelf. Each compartment has its load capacity. I would recommend spreading the items across several compartments rather than putting everything into one.
So far, this has worked without any problems for me, although I don’t go overboard with the weight. For heavier equipment, you can also reinforce or modify the shelves.
Another key point is not to overload the shelf. Each compartment has its load capacity. I would recommend spreading the items across several compartments rather than putting everything into one.
So far, this has worked without any problems for me, although I don’t go overboard with the weight. For heavier equipment, you can also reinforce or modify the shelves.
Regarding the load:
Each KALLAX compartment is designed for a load of about 13-15 kilograms (29-33 pounds), assuming an evenly distributed weight. Since your TV weighs 15 kilograms (33 pounds), it would be advisable to load the shelf only moderately with additional equipment.
If you have heavier devices or several speakers, you should ensure that the weight is distributed across multiple compartments and reinforce the shelves if necessary.
Personally, I have added MDF reinforcements between the shelves to prevent sagging.
Conclusion: Keep the load within limits, secure it well, and it will work fine.
Each KALLAX compartment is designed for a load of about 13-15 kilograms (29-33 pounds), assuming an evenly distributed weight. Since your TV weighs 15 kilograms (33 pounds), it would be advisable to load the shelf only moderately with additional equipment.
If you have heavier devices or several speakers, you should ensure that the weight is distributed across multiple compartments and reinforce the shelves if necessary.
Personally, I have added MDF reinforcements between the shelves to prevent sagging.
Conclusion: Keep the load within limits, secure it well, and it will work fine.
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