Fully Jarvis vs. IKEA Idasen: Which one should you buy?

Compare Fully Jarvis and IKEA Idasen standing desks to find the best fit. Discover differences in quality, customization, and pricing for your ideal workspace.
Written by:
Spencer Lanoue

The Fully Jarvis and IKEA Idasen are two of the most popular standing desks, but they serve different buyers based on quality, customization, and price. The Jarvis is a premium, highly customizable desk known for its sturdy build, eco-friendly materials, and smooth motor, while the Idasen is a more budget-friendly option from IKEA that offers solid functionality and a classic Scandinavian look.

Here's everything you need to know to decide whether the premium investment in a Jarvis or the value-focused Idasen is the right choice for your workspace.

Fully Jarvis Standing Desk

The Jarvis standing desk from Fully (now part of Herman Miller) is hailed for its exceptional build quality, eco-conscious materials, and extensive customization options. It's designed for users who want a durable, long-term investment in their workspace ergonomics and aesthetic, featuring a robust steel frame and a quiet, powerful motor.

  • What it is: A premium, commercial-grade electric standing desk known for its high-quality construction and customization.
  • Key features: Smooth and quiet dual motors, 350 lb lifting capacity, a wide range of desktop finishes including sustainable bamboo, and an advanced OLED touch programmable handset.
  • Price: Ranges from $599 to $799+, depending on size, desktop material, and selected features.
  • Dimensions: Available in widths from 48" to 72" and depths from 24" to 30”. The extended-range frame adjusts from 25.5" to 51" tall.
  • Materials/Construction: The frame is made of heavy-duty steel. Desktop options include sustainably sourced bamboo, eco-friendly laminate, and solid wood.
  • Style: Modern and minimalist, with clean lines that can be customized to fit nearly any contemporary office or home aesthetic.
  • Pros: Excellent stability even at max height, superior 350 lb weight capacity, very quiet motor, extensive customization for size and finish, long 15-year warranty on all parts.
  • Cons: Significantly higher price point than budget alternatives, a high number of options can feel overwhelming for some buyers.

The Jarvis is the ideal desk for professionals and remote workers who prioritize top-tier quality, long-term durability, and the ability to perfectly tailor the desk to their space.

Shop this product: store.hermanmiller.com/standing-desks/jarvis-bamboo-standing-desk/

IKEA Idasen Standing Desk

The IKEA Idasen brings the brand's signature Scandinavian design and affordability to the standing desk market. It offers reliable functionality and a clean, understated look, making ergonomic desks accessible to a broader audience. While it lacks the premium feel of the Jarvis, it's a dependable and stylish workhorse for any home office.

  • What it is: An affordable and functional electric sit-stand desk with a minimalist Scandinavian design.
  • Key features: Electric height adjustment, clean design, available phone app for controlling height and setting reminders, and a discreet under-desk cable management net.
  • Price: Typically ranges from $399 to $599.
  • Dimensions: Available in 47.25” and 63” widths. The height range is approximately 24.75" to 50".
  • Materials/Construction: The frame is powder-coated steel with a particleboard desktop finished in a durable veneer or laminate.
  • Style: Clean and modern Scandinavian minimalism. Available in a few versatile wood-effect and solid finishes that complement other IKEA furniture.
  • Pros: Excellent value for the price, reliable motor, straightforward design, and a solid 10-year limited warranty. The ability to see and test it in an IKEA store is a plus for some.
  • Cons: Lower weight capacity (~165 lbs), less premium desktop materials, fewer size and finish options compared to the Jarvis, assembly is required.

This desk is perfect for students, budget-conscious buyers, or anyone looking for their first standing desk who wants reliable IKEA functionality with a clean look.

Shop this product: ikea.com/us/en/p/idasen-desk-sit-stand-black-dark-gray-s19280962/

Fully Jarvis vs. IKEA Idasen Comparison

Dimensions & Sizing

Both desks offer flexibility, but the Fully Jarvis provides a much wider range of options. With widths from 48” all the way up to 72” and multiple depth choices, it's easier to find a Jarvis that fits perfectly into a specific space, whether it's a tight corner or a large executive office.

The IKEA Idasen is more limited, with only two primary width options (around 47” and 63”). While these sizes work for most standard setups, they don't offer the same tailor-fit possibilities as the Jarvis. Both desks have a similar height adjustment range, accommodating most users comfortably from seated to standing positions.

Materials & Construction

This is where the biggest difference lies. The Fully Jarvis is built like a tank, with a heavy-duty steel frame and high-quality desktop options like its popular sustainable bamboo top. This results in superior stability and a substantial feel, especially at standing heights. Its dual motors are powerful, lifting up to 350 lbs with a quiet, smooth motion.

The IKEA Idasen uses a durable steel frame but pairs it with a particleboard core desktop with veneer or laminate. While sturdy enough for day-to-day use, it doesn't feel as premium as the Jarvis and has a much lower weight capacity of around 165 lbs. This is still plenty for most computer setups, but an issue for those with heavy equipment. The motor is reliable but not as quiet or buttery-smooth as the Jarvis.

Price & Value

The IKEA Idasen is the clear winner on price, often coming in at several hundred dollars less than a comparable Jarvis. For shoppers on a budget, the Idasen delivers incredible value, providing full sit-stand functionality and a decent build for under $600. It's an accessible entry-point into ergonomic workspaces.

The Fully Jarvis is positioned as a long-term investment. Its higher price tag (starting around $599) buys you superior materials, a stronger motor, a much longer 15-year warranty, and better stability. If you plan to use your desk daily for years to come, the durability and premium feel of the Jarvis offer excellent long-term value.

Style & Customization

Both desks feature clean, minimalist designs, but again, Jarvis offers far more choice. With various frame colors (black, white, silver) and a huge array of desktop finishes (multiple bamboo shades, laminates, and solid wood), you can design a Jarvis that perfectly matches your decor.

The IKEA Idasen embraces a fixed Scandinavian aesthetic. It comes in a few select combinations, like a black frame with a dark gray top or a white frame with a light wood-effect top. This simplicity is part of its appeal and ensures it fits well with other IKEA products, but it lacks the personalized touch of the Jarvis.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both of these standing desks are fantastic options, but they are designed for different priorities and budgets.

Choose the Fully Jarvis if:

  • You prioritize premium build quality and long-term durability.
  • You need a higher weight capacity (up to 350 lbs) for multiple monitors or heavy gear.
  • You want extensive customization options to create a desk that perfectly fits your style and space.
  • A quiet, smooth motor and excellent stability at any height are important to you.
  • You are willing to make a higher upfront investment for a product with a 15-year warranty.

Choose the IKEA Idasen if:

  • You're on a tighter budget and want the best value for your money.
  • You need a solid, reliable sit-stand desk for a standard home office setup.
  • You appreciate the clean, minimalist look of Scandinavian design.
  • You're comfortable with self-assembly and prefer a straightforward, no-frills shopping experience.
  • A 165 lb weight capacity is more than enough for your computer and accessories.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between the Jarvis and Idasen?

The main differences are in materials, weight capacity, and price. The Fully Jarvis uses more premium materials (like bamboo and a heavier steel frame), has a higher weight capacity of 350 lbs, and costs more. The IKEA Idasen uses a particleboard desktop, has a 165 lb weight capacity, and is a much more budget-friendly option.

Which standing desk is more stable?

The Fully Jarvis is generally considered more stable, especially at its maximum standing height. Its robust, heavy C-frame legs and solid construction minimize wobble, even with heavy equipment on top.

What is the weight capacity of each desk?

The Fully Jarvis has an impressive 350 lb lifting capacity, making it suitable for users with multiple heavy monitors and other equipment. The IKEA Idasen has a weight capacity of approximately 165 lbs (75 kg), which is sufficient for most typical home office setups.

How difficult is assembly?

Both desks require self-assembly. The IKEA Idasen follows the standard model of IKEA instructions with diagrams, which is relatively straightforward for those familiar with it. The Fully Jarvis also requires assembly, which is comparable in difficulty, though Fully has an option for professional assembly in some areas.

Which motor is quieter?

The motor in the Fully Jarvis is renowned for being one of the quietest on the market, operating with a very low hum. The IKEA Idasen's motor is also relatively quiet but slightly more noticeable than the Jarvis's.

What is the warranty for each desk?

Fully offers an exceptional 15-year warranty covering the frame, motor, and controller on the Jarvis desk. IKEA provides a reliable 10-year limited warranty for its Idasen series, which is excellent for its price point but shorter than Fully's coverage.

Can I use my own desktop with these frames?

Yes, both companies sell just the frame, so you can pair them with a custom desktop of your choice. This is a popular option for DIY-ers who want to save money or use a specific wood slab or surface material.

Are there cable management options for both desks?

Yes. The IKEA Idasen comes with a simple but effective cable management net that attaches under the desk. Fully offers a wide range of optional cable management accessories for the Jarvis, including trays, spines, and ties for a more comprehensive and cleaner setup.

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