ᐅ KALLAX as a Gaming Shelf – Cable Management?

Hello everyone,

I’m currently planning to reorganize my gaming setup and am considering using the IKEA KALLAX shelf as the base for my gaming unit. My main question is: how do you handle cable management with the KALLAX shelf?

Since the shelf is quite open and offers many compartments, it seems like a good option for hiding cables, but at the same time, it’s challenging to keep things tidy—especially with multiple consoles, a PC, monitors, and special accessories like headsets and controller chargers.

I’m interested in practical tips or solutions for routing or securing cables: how do you effectively manage cable clutter in a KALLAX? Do you use specific clips, cable channels, Velcro straps, or even modifications to the shelf itself?

Also, any experience with power supply setups, integrating outlets inside the KALLAX, or accommodating power strips would be great to hear about.

Looking forward to your opinions and tips!

Hi,

I use the KALLAX as a gaming shelf. For cable management, I use cable ties and Velcro straps to keep the cables neatly bundled. Additionally, I attached small cable clips on the back of the shelf to prevent cables from hanging down or sideways.

A power strip with a flat plug fits well at the back, keeping everything flush. The setup is simple but effective.

ixni63 schrieb:
How do you handle cable management with the KALLAX shelf?

The KALLAX is very well suited for gaming setups, especially because of the modular compartments. For cable management, I recommend the following approach, as many people overlook the depth and routing possibilities:

First, you should use the back of the shelf and work with hook-and-loop cable ties there for flexibility. It’s important to plan your cable routes before assembly. For example, I mounted slim cable channels on the back, which I fixed with double-sided tape – these can even hold a USB hub or power strip without being visible.

Consider drilling holes in the back panel to route cables neatly. It’s best to use a drill bit with a collar or flange, so the cables aren’t damaged by sharp edges.

For power supply, I often integrate a flat or narrow power strip hidden behind the shelf. Combined with cable ties, this allows me to create a very clean and organized setup.

I’m also interested in how you organize your space for peripherals and whether you provide ventilation for your PC or console within the KALLAX – that can affect your cable routing.

If you plan to power LEDs or other components, a small USB extension or a multi-adapter inside the shelf can be very useful.

BOMILAN schrieb:
small cable clips have been attached to prevent cables from hanging down or to the side.

That sounds like the classic approach. But honestly: isn’t the KALLAX more of a half-hearted attempt to use a piece of furniture for cable management? It’s popular mainly because it’s cheap and looks like a versatile all-rounder.

Nathanaelk schrieb:
Drilling holes in the back panel to route cables neatly through.

Personally, I don’t have the patience for that. It seems more like a DIY solution with the risk that the shelf might become unstable over time or the cable could be damaged.

I think it’s better to invest in real gaming furniture, which is professionally designed for cable management and comes standard with channels, cutouts, etc. That way, everything looks more aesthetic and technically tidy. KALLAX is just a makeshift solution (or trendy décor) for hiding cables.

But maybe I’m wrong, what do you think?

likuken schrieb:
KALLAX is just an emergency solution (or trendy decoration) for hiding cables.

I see it differently. Especially for beginners or those who don’t want to buy a completely new setup, KALLAX is a very flexible and affordable piece of furniture.

With relatively simple means, you can establish good cable management—for example, using cable clips, hook-and-loop straps, and cable ducts mounted inside. KALLAX’s open back panel is actually very user-friendly when you want to route and bundle cables toward the back.

If you don’t mind the extra effort, you can also drill holes and install custom power strips to achieve a very professional look. You should just plan the setup carefully in advance—otherwise, you’ll end up with a cable mess.

Regarding safety: drilled holes can be protected with rubber grommets, so the shelf won’t be damaged. I have done this myself, drilling small holes for USB and power cables—looks great and has worked perfectly for years.

However, if you really want to install lots of technology and accessories, special gaming furniture that includes ventilation channels and cable pass-throughs may be more suitable.