The IKEA Idasen and Bekant are two of the most popular standing desks on the market, but they differ significantly in stability, adjustment mechanism, and price. The Idasen is a premium electric-only desk with a robust steel frame known for its exceptional stability, while the Bekant is a more budget-friendly and versatile option available in both manual and electric versions.
Here’s everything you need to know to choose the right standing desk from IKEA for your home office.
IKEA Bekant Stand-Up Desk
The Bekant is IKEA's workhorse standing desk, offering a functional and clean design at a very competitive price. It’s a popular entry point for a sit-stand setup, emphasizing versatility with multiple sizes, finishes, and the choice between a simple manual crank or a basic electric motor.
- What it is: A versatile line of sit-stand desks available with manual or electric height adjustment.
- Key features: Simple up/down controls on the electric model, includes a cable management net, available in several tabletop colors.
- Price: Around $200–$400, depending on size and whether you choose the manual or electric version.
- Dimensions: Available in several sizes, with common widths like 47 1/4", 55 1/8", and 63".
- Materials/Construction: The frame is made of steel, while the tabletop is particleboard with a laminate or veneer finish.
- Style: Functional, minimalist, and modern. Its clean lines fit well in almost any contemporary Scandinavian or industrial space.
- Pros: Highly affordable entry point for a standing desk. Available in many sizes and finishes. Manual version requires no electricity. Lightweight and relatively easy to assemble.
- Cons: Can have a noticeable wobble, especially at taller heights with a heavy setup. The electric motor is louder and less smooth than the Idasen's. The included cable management net is less tidy than other solutions.
This desk is a great choice for students, those setting up their first home office, or anyone prioritizing price over premium features.
Shop this product: ikea.com/us/en/p/bekant-series-stand-up-desk-20382907/
IKEA Idasen Electric Desk
The Idasen is IKEA's premium standing desk, engineered for stability, smooth operation, and long-term durability. It features a superior electric motor that operates quietly and reliably, and its heavy-duty steel frame minimizes wobble almost entirely, even at its maximum height.
- What it is: A high-quality, electric-only sit-stand desk with a focus on stability and ergonomic performance.
- Key features: Quiet and smooth dual-motor electric lift system, extremely stable at all heights, more refined aesthetic.
- Price: Roughly $500–$700, reflecting its more robust build and advanced mechanics.
- Dimensions: Comes in similar widths to the Bekant, including 47 1/4" and 63".
- Materials/Construction: A heavy, robust steel frame provides the foundation, paired with a high-quality tabletop with a durable veneer or laminate finish.
- Style: Sleek and modern with a slightly more professional feel. The clean leg design and refined finish options blend well into sophisticated home offices.
- Pros: Rock-solid stability with little to no wobble. The dual-motor system is very quiet and smooth. Has a greater height adjustment range than the Bekant. Built for frequent daily use and longevity.
- Cons: Significantly more expensive. The heavy frame makes it more difficult to assemble and move. Takes up a fixed amount of floor space due to the leg design.
The Idasen is tailored for professionals, remote workers, or anyone who spends long hours at their desk and is sensitive to wobble.
Shop this product: ikea.com/us/en/p/idasen-electric-desk-60374736/
Idasen vs. Bekant Comparison
Dimensions & Stability
While both desks are offered in similar tabletop sizes, their stability is what truly sets them apart. The Bekant uses a T-leg design that can be prone to front-to-back and side-to-side wobble, particularly when raised to standing height. This might be distracting for heavy typists or users with multiple monitors.
The Idasen, on the other hand, features a more robust frame with legs that angle slightly outward at the base, providing a much wider and more stable foundation. The result is a rock-solid work surface with minimal movement, even when fully extended. If stability is your primary concern, the Idasen is the clear winner.
Materials & Construction
The Bekant is built to be an affordable, functional piece of furniture. Its steel frame and particleboard top are perfectly adequate for general use. The included mesh cable management tray is a thoughtful, if basic, inclusion.
The Idasen feels like a step up in every way. The steel frame is noticeably heavier and thicker, contributing to its premium feel and stability. The internal motor mechanism is engineered for quieter, smoother adjustments, reflecting an overall higher standard of construction designed for long-term, intensive use. Both desks are backed by IKEA's 10-year warranty, which covers the frame and the electric motors.
Price & Value
The price difference is substantial, with the Idasen often costing twice as much as a comparable Bekant model. For shoppers on a tight budget, the Bekant delivers immense value. It provides the core functionality of a sit-stand desk at one of the lowest prices on the market, especially if you opt for the manual crank version.
The Idasen justifies its higher price through superior performance. If you work from home full-time, dislike any screen wobble, or value a quiet motor that won't distract you, the Idasen is a worthwhile investment. Its durability and ergonomic benefits offer excellent long-term value for daily users.
Style & Versatility
Both desks follow IKEA’s signature minimalist aesthetic. The Bekant offers more versatility in finishes, with various wood-effect and solid color tabletops to choose from. Its straightforward design blends easily into any home office setup.
The Idasen has a more refined, professional appearance. Its cleaner lines and sturdy leg design give it a more permanent, high-end feel. While it has fewer color options, its design feels more intentional and sophisticated, working perfectly in dedicated, modern workspaces.
Who Each One Works Best For
The Bekant is perfect for students, casual home office users, or anyone buying their first standing desk. Its low price makes it accessible, and it delivers the basic sit-stand functionality needed for better ergonomics without a major financial commitment. It's an excellent choice for a guest room desk or a secondary workspace.
The Idasen is tailored for dedicated remote workers, freelancers, gamers, and anyone who demands a solid, reliable desk for an 8+ hour workday. If you switch between sitting and standing multiple times a day, the smooth and quiet motor makes a big difference. If you have a multi-monitor setup or are sensitive to wobble, the stability alone makes it the superior choice.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both IKEA desks are good options that serve different priorities, users, and spaces.
Choose the Idasen if:
- You cannot tolerate any desk wobble or screen shaking.
- You want a quiet, smooth motor for frequent height adjustments.
- This desk will be the centerpiece of your long-term, daily-use home office.
- Your budget can accommodate a premium, more durable frame.
Choose the Bekant if:
- You are on a strict budget and want the best value.
- You are setting up your first standing desk and aren't sure how often you'll use it.
- A small amount of wobble at standing height won't bother you.
- You want more color and finish options to match your decor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between the Idasen and Bekant?
The main difference is stability and motor quality. The Idasen has a much sturdier, heavier frame that eliminates wobble and features a quiet, smooth dual-motor system. The Bekant is less stable at height and has a louder, more basic motor but is significantly more affordable.
Which one is more stable?
The Idasen is far more stable. Its robust frame and wider leg stance are specifically designed to prevent the wobble that can affect T-leg desks like the Bekant, especially at standing heights.
Is the Idasen worth the extra money?
For someone who works from home full-time or needs a completely stable work surface, yes. The lack of wobble, quieter motor, and durable build quality make it a much better long-term investment for serious users.
Can I put a custom tabletop on the Idasen or Bekant frames?
Yes, many people buy only the frame from IKEA and pair it with a custom solid wood or laminate tabletop from another supplier. Just be sure to check the frame's weight capacity and dimensions to ensure compatibility.
Which IKEA desk is better for gaming?
The Idasen is a much better choice for gaming due to its superior stability. Quick mouse movements and keyboard presses are less likely to cause monitor shake, providing a more stable and immersive experience.
How high and low do these desks go?
The Idasen generally has a larger adjustment range, typically from 24 3/4" to 50". The Bekant electric version adjusts from about 22" to 48". This makes the Idasen slightly better for very tall users.
Do these desks come with cable management?
The Bekant includes a simple mesh net that hangs under the desk. The Idasen has an integrated channel and works with IKEA's cable management accessories, sold separately, for a cleaner look.
What warranty do the Idasen and Bekant come with?
Both desks are covered by IKEA's 10-year limited warranty in most regions. This warranty typically covers defects in the frame, tabletop, and the electric motors, giving you peace of mind.
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