ᐅ Difference between old and new KALLAX – are the dimensions the same?

Hello everyone,

I am currently researching the IKEA KALLAX shelf unit in detail, specifically regarding the differences between the old and new versions. My main question is: Are the dimensions of the old and new KALLAX truly identical, or are there differences that are important for planning?

I’m asking because I have found conflicting information both in some furniture planning tools and forums. Some users report that the new version has slightly different overall dimensions or different internal compartment measurements, which could affect the compatibility of accessories like inserts or boxes.

It would be great if someone here has reliable and precise information or could share their experience. I am especially interested in whether upgrading or adding accessories from the new generation to older KALLAX units works smoothly, and which dimensions should be considered exactly.

Thanks in advance!

Hello Yakup_gau,

I can answer your question with clear facts: the external dimensions of the KALLAX have remained consistent across recent model generations, measuring approximately 77x77 cm (30x30 inches) per compartment (width x height).

However, the new version does have minor changes in the internal components, such as panel thickness and manufacturing details, which can affect the internal dimensions of the compartments by a few millimeters (inches). This is especially relevant for perfectly fitting inserts or boxes.

Specifically: if you have accessories from the older series, you should measure them carefully before using them with the new KALLAX. Often they still fit, but the tolerances have become tighter. For standard shelving cubes, the difference is hardly noticeable in everyday use.

If you are using accessories, it is worth directly comparing the internal measurements. IKEA itself has not officially communicated any changes in dimensions.

I recommend checking measurements precisely at the millimeter (inch) level if you want to add or modify components.

vinli schrieb:
However, the new version actually features minimal changes to the internal components

This is exactly the crucial point.

Based on my detailed research and on-site measurements, it can be said that the external dimensions of the KALLAX have indeed remained unchanged to maintain customer flexibility. This means that shelves purchased 5 or 10 years ago still match the current standard module size externally.

However, IKEA has used optimized panel materials for the new version, which provide greater stability with thinner material thickness. As a result, the internal dimensions of the compartments have slightly decreased—the internal size per opening is mostly 2-3 mm (about 0.08-0.12 inches) narrower or shallower.

From a technical perspective, this is especially important if you want to add accessories such as compartment doors, inserts, or boxes.

Another point is the spacing of the adjustable shelves, which has changed slightly, so some older shelves or dividers no longer fit exactly.

My recommendation: If you plan to mix or customize accessories, measure the internal dimensions of your existing shelf very precisely—including width, height, and depth—and compare them with the product data for the new KALLAX. Sometimes you need to pay attention to the model year.

If you like, you can share your measurements here, and I’d be happy to provide an assessment or suggest alternatives. 🙂

Yakup_gau schrieb:
I’m asking because I found conflicting information from several furniture planners and in forums.

I completely understand how confusing this can be, especially when you put a lot of effort into planning and then face uncertainties about seemingly simple things like measurements. I had a similar experience when I wanted to upgrade my KALLAX shelf.

kulau schrieb:
The internal dimensions per compartment have usually become about 2-3 mm (0.08-0.12 inches) narrower or shallower.

These small differences can really make a big impact, especially if you already have custom inserts or doors that fit precisely.

I recently compared an old and new KALLAX and can confirm that externally everything looked the same. But just as kulau mentioned, inside you really notice the difference – so I had to make adjustments to my inserts.

Still, I would recommend not getting discouraged. Small modifications can often be fixed with a file or sandpaper, and IKEA often offers alternative sizes in their accessories as well.

If you like, I’d be happy to share tips from my experience so you can use the shelf exactly as you envision it. 🙂