The core difference between the IKEA Akurum and Sektion kitchen systems is time and technology: Akurum is IKEA’s discontinued cabinet system, while Sektion is its modern, highly customizable replacement. Akurum uses traditional sizing and more basic materials, whereas the Sektion system offers superior modularity, improved durability, and a more contemporary aesthetic with advanced features.
Here’s a detailed comparison to help you understand what makes each system unique and which one works for your kitchen project.
IKEA Akurum Kitchen System (Discontinued)
Akurum was IKEA's long-standing kitchen cabinet system for over 20 years before being phased out in 2018. It became a go-to choice for budget-conscious renovators due to its straightforward design, functional nature, and affordable price point. Its presence is still felt in countless homes, and it remains a common item on the secondhand market.
- What it is: A discontinued line of framed, European-influenced but traditionally-sized kitchen cabinets that was IKEA’s standard from the 1990s to 2018.
- Key features: Particleboard and fiberboard construction with pre-set sizes. It introduced modularity to the masses but is less flexible than its successor.
- Original Price: When new, complete Akurum kitchens typically ranged from $2,000 to $8,000.
- Materials/Construction: Made primarily from particleboard and fiberboard with melamine or veneer finishes. Hardware was functional but basic compared to today's standards.
- Style: Utilitarian and classic, Akurum reflects design trends of the early 2000s with traditional door styles and wood-look finishes.
- Pros: Very affordable, especially when purchased secondhand. Simple design makes planning and installation straightforward. Widely available on secondhand marketplaces.
- Cons: Discontinued, making it nearly impossible to find new replacement parts. Less durable than the Sektion system. Not customizable beyond a few standard boxes. A more dated aesthetic.
The Akurum is primarily for homeowners who need to repair or match pieces in an existing kitchen, are undertaking an extremely low-budget project with secondhand cabinets, or do not need advanced modern features.
IKEA Sektion Kitchen System
Introduced in 2018, Sektion is IKEA's current and much-improved flagship kitchen platform, built on an endless 'building block' approach. Sektion focuses on functionality, sleek design integration, and superior long-term performance and style.
- What it is: IKEA's current comprehensive, modular frameless cabinet line that replaced the earlier IKEA Akurum brand.
- Key features: It uses a flexible rail, wall-mounted for easy installation, offers more cabinet options like interior lighting solutions, and better organizational interior fitting accessories.
- Price: Base cabinets range from $70-$200 each, with a full kitchen typically costing $3,000 to $12,000+.
- Dimensions: There are added dimension choices with Sektion – including additional depth, height, wider and narrower units compared to Akurum.
- Materials/Construction: Higher-quality particleboard frames plus better, tougher hinges, and soft-close drawer hardware mechanisms with improved resistance to moisture come standard.
- Style: Sleek, European frameless construction style which provides cleaner lines and a more contemporary aesthetic. Finishes include high gloss, matte, and textured surfaces, along with traditional Shaker-inspired doors.
- Pros: A long 25-year limited warranty, many customizable layouts, highly durable, broad selection of modern styles or finishes, and widely available with support for new-part additions from IKEA's website.
- Cons: Costs more than the original Akurum, and greater complexity can mean you'll need a kitchen planning service.
The Sektion is the ideal choice from IKEA for a new, built-to-last kitchen that delivers modern function and a subtle design quality for your family and guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between Akurum and Sektion?
The main difference is that IKEA's Sektion is the new, current kitchen system, while Akurum is the older, discontinued one. Sektion is more modular, uses better quality materials and hardware, has a longer 25-year warranty, and aligns with modern design trends. Akurum, on the other hand, is what you'll find in older IKEA kitchens and on the secondhand market.
Are IKEA Akurum and Sektion parts compatible?
No, they are not compatible. The cabinet dimensions, drawer sizes, hinge placement, and mounting systems are completely different. You cannot put Sektion doors on Akurum cabinets or use Sektion drawers in Akurum bases without significant modifications that will likely cost more than replacing the parts with used or new Sektion pieces.
How do you fix a kitchen with Akurum doors you don't like anymore?
You could consider buying Akurum-compatible doors through Semihandmade or another third-party brand that makes doors and fronts for IKEA brands like Akurum and Sektion. However, you shouldn't add Sektion doors to your existing Akurum kitchen because the hinge drilling patterns are not the same.
How can I tell whether I have an Akurum or Sektion kitchen?
You can look at your cabinets and drawers. Akurum drawers typically have gray metal side walls, while Sektion drawers are white. Additionally, Sektion cabinets are frameless, whereas Akurum cabinets have a slight frame around the edges.
Which IKEA countertop is better for a desk?
Both systems can support any IKEA or popular brands of custom countertops you find, such as quartz, wood, or laminate. The final countertop choice will depend on budget and your design style preference. For either system, ensure that the overhang of your desk does not sag by placing support legs or adding a wall brace underneath for support.
Is Sektion more costly than Akurum was?
Yes, Sektion is more expensive than Akurum was due to its superior materials, robust hardware, and a longer warranty.
Will Sektion continue for a very long time like Akurum has already?
IKEA intends for Sektion to last a long time and it is designed with modern design sensibilities and flexible adaptability to a wide variety of styles and spaces.
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