The IKEA Markus office chair comes in two popular versions, Cloth and Leather, which differ primarily in material, breathability, and price. The cloth model offers a soft, breathable polyester fabric that's ideal for long sitting sessions and warmer climates, while the leather version provides a sleek, professional look that's easy to clean but comes at a higher price and is less breathable.
Here's everything you need to know to decide which Markus chair is the right choice for your home office.
IKEA Markus Cloth Office Chair
The IKEA Markus Cloth is a go-to choice for those seeking ergonomic support and comfort without a large price tag. Its high, mesh-like backrest and polyester fabric seat are designed for superior airflow, making it comfortable for full workdays, especially in environments without air conditioning.
- What it is: A high-back ergonomic office chair featuring a breathable polyester fabric seat and mesh back.
- Key features: Adjustable seat height and tilt function with a locking mechanism, integrated lumbar support, and a supportive high backrest.
- Price: ~$229
- Style: Modern, functional, and casual. It blends easily into most contemporary home office setups with its dark gray fabric.
- Materials/Construction: The frame is made of steel, the seat is padded with polyurethane foam, and the upholstery is a durable polyester fabric.
- Pros: Excellent breathability prevents overheating during long sitting sessions. More affordable than the leather version. The fabric surface feels soft and comfortable. Lighter visual weight fits well in smaller spaces.
- Cons: Fabric can be more prone to staining from spills. May absorb odors over time. Looks less formal or "executive" compared to the leather option.
This chair is perfect for users who prioritize breathability and comfort during long stretches of work and want a reliable ergonomic chair at an accessible price.
Shop this product: ikea.com/us/en/p/markus-office-chair-vissle-dark-gray-90289172/
IKEA Markus Leather Office Chair
The IKEA Markus Leather version offers the same trusted ergonomic design but with a more polished and professional aesthetic. The coated fabric upholstery (often referred to as bonded or faux leather) provides a smooth, sleek surface that's exceptionally easy to clean, making it a practical choice for a clean and sophisticated workspace.
- What it is: A high-back ergonomic office chair with a professional look, upholstered in a durable and easy-to-clean leather-like coated fabric.
- Key features: Shares the same adjustable height, tilt lock, and high backrest with lumbar support as the cloth model.
- Price: ~$349
- Style: Professional, sophisticated, and executive. It adds a more formal touch to a home office.
- Materials/Construction: Steel frame with polyurethane foam padding. The main contact surfaces are covered in a coated fabric made of polyester and polyurethane.
- Pros: Easy to wipe clean from spills and dust. Looks more premium and professional. The surface feels smooth and cool to the touch initially. Great durability for high-traffic or family office environments.
- Cons: Significantly less breathable than the cloth version, which can be warm during long meetings or in hotter climates. The material can crack or peel after several years of heavy use. Higher price point.
This model suits anyone who wants a decidedly professional look for their office and values a wipe-clean surface over maximum breathability.
Shop this product: ikea.com/us/en/p/markus-office-chair-glose-black-robust-black-00103102/
IKEA Markus Cloth vs. Leather Comparison
Comfort & Breathability
This is the most significant difference between the two chairs. The Markus Cloth chair's fabric seat and mesh back allow air to circulate freely. This prevents heat and moisture buildup, keeping you more comfortable over an eight-hour workday, especially if your office tends to get warm. You're far less likely to feel sticky or sweaty after prolonged use.
The Leather Markus, with its polyurethane-coated surface, does not breathe. While it feels cool at first, it can trap body heat, leading to discomfort and sweating during long sitting periods or in warmer seasons. If you run hot or work long hours, this is a critical factor to consider.
Materials & Durability
Both chairs share the exact same sturdy steel frame and reliable ergonomic adjustment mechanisms, well-regarded for their longevity. The main difference is the upholstery. The cloth version uses a durable polyester that stands up well to daily friction but can be susceptible to snags or stains.
The leather version uses a coated fabric that resists spills and is less likely to get stained. However, this type of material can be prone to cracking or peeling after several years of use, especially on high-wear areas like the seat edge or armrests.
Maintenance & Cleaning
Here, the leather model has a clear advantage. Spills, dust, or pet hair can be wiped off the Leather Markus with a simple damp cloth, making it extremely low-maintenance. This is a huge benefit for anyone who eats at their desk or has kids or pets around.
The cloth chair requires more effort. While some stains can be blotted immediately, deeper spills may need a fabric cleaner. Dust and crumbs can also get trapped in the fabric weave, requiring more frequent vacuuming. The armrest covers on the cloth version are removable and washable, which is a helpful feature, but the main seat requires spot cleaning.
Style & Aesthetic
Choosing between the two often comes down to the look you want for your space. The Cloth Markus has a softer, more modern-casual appearance that fits well in creative spaces, dorm rooms, or less formal home offices. Its dark gray color is versatile and understated.
The Leather Markus immediately projects a more professional, executive vibe. The solid black, sleek surface has a classic office look that can anchor a room and pair well with dark wood desks and more traditional decor. It's the go-to for anyone wanting their home office to feel like a corporate one.
Price & Value
The Cloth Markus is the more budget-friendly option, typically costing over $100 less than its leather counterpart. For that price, you get the exact same ergonomic support, frame, and functionality. The value here is excellent, offering premium comfort features at an entry-level price.
The extra cost for the Leather Markus is purely for the aesthetic and easy-to-clean upholstery. If a professional look and effortless maintenance are high on your priority list, the price difference may be justified. Both chairs come with IKEA's 10-year limited warranty, so either choice is a long-term investment.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both IKEA Markus chairs are excellent ergonomic investments, but they're tailored for different users and priorities.
Choose the IKEA Markus Cloth if:
- You prioritize breathability and comfort for long work sessions.
- You live in a warm climate or your office doesn't have great air conditioning.
- You are on a tighter budget but still want top-tier ergonomic support.
- You prefer a softer, more casual aesthetic for your workspace.
Choose the IKEA Markus Leather if:
- You want a sleek, professional, and "executive" look for your office.
- Ease of cleaning is a top concern - you eat at your desk or have pets and kids.
- You work in a climate-controlled environment and aren't prone to overheating.
- Your budget can accommodate the higher price for the premium finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between the Markus Cloth and Leather chairs?
The main difference is the seat and back material. The Cloth version uses a breathable polyester fabric that promotes airflow, while the Leather version uses a coated fabric (faux/bonded leather) that is easy to wipe clean but traps heat.
Is the IKEA Markus leather chair made of real leather?
No, the IKEA Markus Leather chair is upholstered with a coated fabric, often called bonded leather or faux leather. The main wearing surfaces are a durable mix of polyurethane and polyester, not genuine leather hide.
Which version is more comfortable for long hours?
For most people, the Cloth Markus is more comfortable for long hours due to its superior breathability, which prevents heat and sweat buildup. However, comfort is subjective, and some may prefer the smooth feel of the leather-like surface.
Does the leather version peel or crack?
Like many bonded leather products, the Markus Leather chair can be prone to peeling or cracking after several years of heavy use, particularly in areas that see a lot of friction or direct sunlight. Using a leather conditioner occasionally may help extend its life.
What is the weight capacity of the Markus chair?
Both the cloth and leather versions of the IKEA Markus chair have been tested for and are recommended for a maximum weight of 242.5 lbs (110 kg).
Is the IKEA Markus good for tall people?
Yes, the Markus chair is well-known for its high backrest, which provides excellent head and neck support, making it a very popular choice for taller individuals.
How do you clean the Cloth IKEA Markus?
The armrests have removable covers that are machine washable. For the main seat and back, IKEA recommends spot cleaning with a textile cleaner or a damp cloth with a mild soapy solution.
Can the armrests be removed?
Yes, the armrests are attached with screws and can be removed on both versions of the Markus chair if you prefer to use it without them for better freedom of movement or to fit it under a lower desk.
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