Hello everyone,
I am considering getting a new Kallax shelf unit from Ikea, but I am a bit unsure whether the current version (new production 2019) is still really recommended.
I am particularly interested in the quality of the materials and workmanship of the latest edition. Has anything changed compared to older models? Also, I would like to know how durable the shelf is in everyday use – does it hold up well with frequent rearranging or slightly heavier loads?
Another point I am curious about: The assembly is supposed to be quite simple, but are there any updates that might make it more difficult or easier?
What uses have you recently put the Kallax to, and would you still consider it a good investment, especially when buying new rather than secondhand?
I look forward to detailed experiences and opinions!
Best regards
Jose61
I am considering getting a new Kallax shelf unit from Ikea, but I am a bit unsure whether the current version (new production 2019) is still really recommended.
I am particularly interested in the quality of the materials and workmanship of the latest edition. Has anything changed compared to older models? Also, I would like to know how durable the shelf is in everyday use – does it hold up well with frequent rearranging or slightly heavier loads?
Another point I am curious about: The assembly is supposed to be quite simple, but are there any updates that might make it more difficult or easier?
What uses have you recently put the Kallax to, and would you still consider it a good investment, especially when buying new rather than secondhand?
I look forward to detailed experiences and opinions!
Best regards
Jose61
Hello Jose61,
I think your question is very well formulated because you’re not just asking for a general evaluation but really focusing on specific points. 🙂
A few months ago, I bought a new Kallax in white and use it as a bookshelf and display surface for decorations. I find the quality basically unchanged and still stable—no noticeable deterioration. However, I should mention that I handle the wooden panels carefully and don’t constantly slide things back and forth on them.
The assembly was quick, which hasn’t really changed for me. The only minor downside is that the instructions are quite minimal as usual, so you really have to pay close attention.
What I noticed is that with my model, the shelves can be removed fairly easily, which is practical if you want to store larger items.
All in all, I would say a new purchase is definitely worthwhile if you want an affordable, functional shelf. Unfortunately, I don’t have a better comparison with older models—but I can hardly imagine that Ikea has significantly worsened it here. Hope this helps you a bit!
I think your question is very well formulated because you’re not just asking for a general evaluation but really focusing on specific points. 🙂
A few months ago, I bought a new Kallax in white and use it as a bookshelf and display surface for decorations. I find the quality basically unchanged and still stable—no noticeable deterioration. However, I should mention that I handle the wooden panels carefully and don’t constantly slide things back and forth on them.
The assembly was quick, which hasn’t really changed for me. The only minor downside is that the instructions are quite minimal as usual, so you really have to pay close attention.
What I noticed is that with my model, the shelves can be removed fairly easily, which is practical if you want to store larger items.
All in all, I would say a new purchase is definitely worthwhile if you want an affordable, functional shelf. Unfortunately, I don’t have a better comparison with older models—but I can hardly imagine that Ikea has significantly worsened it here. Hope this helps you a bit!
Hello Jose61,
I would like to go into more detail here, as I use the Kallax system not only privately but also on a small scale for storage purposes in the office and am familiar with different batches and production years.
Regarding the current state of new products (2019): The wood fiberboards used (medium-density fiberboard, MDF) have basically remained very similar in terms of thickness and density. However, there is a change in the finish coating: Ikea now uses a slightly glossier lacquer that is supposed to offer better moisture protection. This makes the shelf more durable in everyday use, especially when it comes into contact with damp hands or drinks.
That is correct and has been deliberately maintained as a standard feature because flexibility is very important for users. At the same time, it should be noted that the connectors (metal fittings and plastic plugs) still require correct installation; otherwise, under load, movement may become stiff.
There are hardly any changes regarding assembly: The now familiar snap-in clamps and screws remain mandatory. Due to the smoother lacquer, some connecting surfaces can be a bit more slippery, which may require some patience during assembly, especially if working alone.
It is also important to choose the appropriate fastening depending on the intended use (e.g., as a room divider or wall-mounted shelf), as the shelf backs of new products are often not stronger and provide only light stabilization.
Regarding load capacity, Kallax can hold up to 13 kg (28.7 lbs) per compartment – which should be sufficient for typical household use. For heavier loads or rolling shelves with Kallax cubes, additional reinforcements should be considered.
If you have specific use cases, feel free to ask in more detail.
I would like to go into more detail here, as I use the Kallax system not only privately but also on a small scale for storage purposes in the office and am familiar with different batches and production years.
Regarding the current state of new products (2019): The wood fiberboards used (medium-density fiberboard, MDF) have basically remained very similar in terms of thickness and density. However, there is a change in the finish coating: Ikea now uses a slightly glossier lacquer that is supposed to offer better moisture protection. This makes the shelf more durable in everyday use, especially when it comes into contact with damp hands or drinks.
bente schrieb:
the shelves can be removed relatively easily, which is practical
That is correct and has been deliberately maintained as a standard feature because flexibility is very important for users. At the same time, it should be noted that the connectors (metal fittings and plastic plugs) still require correct installation; otherwise, under load, movement may become stiff.
There are hardly any changes regarding assembly: The now familiar snap-in clamps and screws remain mandatory. Due to the smoother lacquer, some connecting surfaces can be a bit more slippery, which may require some patience during assembly, especially if working alone.
It is also important to choose the appropriate fastening depending on the intended use (e.g., as a room divider or wall-mounted shelf), as the shelf backs of new products are often not stronger and provide only light stabilization.
Regarding load capacity, Kallax can hold up to 13 kg (28.7 lbs) per compartment – which should be sufficient for typical household use. For heavier loads or rolling shelves with Kallax cubes, additional reinforcements should be considered.
If you have specific use cases, feel free to ask in more detail.
Hey Jose61,
great question! 🙂 I got a colorful Kallax for my home office last year and was really surprised at how straightforward it is. Assembly was a breeze – definitely typical Ikea!
That's true, and for me that’s a big plus because I don’t want to spend much time on instructions.
Regarding durability: I store not only books but also jewelry boxes and some electronics on my shelf, which stay securely in place thanks to the sturdy construction. It doesn’t squeak or wobble. For the price, it’s really excellent!
I think whether you choose the standard wood or colorful Kallax shelves, the main difference is in the look, but the quality seems to be the same.
A small tip: If you plan to use the shelf as a side table, maybe with some plants or so, put a protective mat underneath – especially with wood veneer, water can cause damage.
Good luck with your project! And if you need more info, just ask 🙂
great question! 🙂 I got a colorful Kallax for my home office last year and was really surprised at how straightforward it is. Assembly was a breeze – definitely typical Ikea!
kulau schrieb:
The now well-known snap-in clips and screws remain mandatory.
That's true, and for me that’s a big plus because I don’t want to spend much time on instructions.
Regarding durability: I store not only books but also jewelry boxes and some electronics on my shelf, which stay securely in place thanks to the sturdy construction. It doesn’t squeak or wobble. For the price, it’s really excellent!
I think whether you choose the standard wood or colorful Kallax shelves, the main difference is in the look, but the quality seems to be the same.
A small tip: If you plan to use the shelf as a side table, maybe with some plants or so, put a protective mat underneath – especially with wood veneer, water can cause damage.
Good luck with your project! And if you need more info, just ask 🙂
Hello everyone,
I’d like to add a brief comment that might help Jose61 with their decision:
Since 2017, I have had a Kallax shelf unit in my home office, which I bought new. It’s probably from a batch similar to those produced today.
Compared to older versions, in my opinion, the finish shows a slight weakness – small scratches appear relatively quickly on my white unit and become quite noticeable over time, especially if you frequently place items on it or use it for storage.
Based on my experience, I would say it’s advisable to be cautious if you often reconfigure the unit or regularly store heavy items. The panels are not solid wood and can start to weaken at the corners and dowel joints under excessive load. It is sufficient for stacks of heavy books, but less so for very heavy objects or dynamic stresses.
The assembly itself has not deteriorated; I would not consider that a problem.
So, I see the Kallax as an affordable and practical solution, but not a shelf that will last a lifetime under very heavy use. Definitely recommended for light to medium loads.
Regards,
floga
I’d like to add a brief comment that might help Jose61 with their decision:
Since 2017, I have had a Kallax shelf unit in my home office, which I bought new. It’s probably from a batch similar to those produced today.
Compared to older versions, in my opinion, the finish shows a slight weakness – small scratches appear relatively quickly on my white unit and become quite noticeable over time, especially if you frequently place items on it or use it for storage.
Jose61 schrieb:
How durable is the shelf for everyday use – does it hold up well with frequent rearranging or heavier loads?
Based on my experience, I would say it’s advisable to be cautious if you often reconfigure the unit or regularly store heavy items. The panels are not solid wood and can start to weaken at the corners and dowel joints under excessive load. It is sufficient for stacks of heavy books, but less so for very heavy objects or dynamic stresses.
The assembly itself has not deteriorated; I would not consider that a problem.
So, I see the Kallax as an affordable and practical solution, but not a shelf that will last a lifetime under very heavy use. Definitely recommended for light to medium loads.
Regards,
floga
Similar topics