The IKEA Markus and Järfjället are two of IKEA's most popular office chairs, but they cater to very different needs and budgets. The Markus is a highly affordable, classic workhorse with basic ergonomic features, ideal for casual use. In contrast, the Järfjället is a more premium option offering superior materials and much greater adjustability in its headrest, armrests, and seat, designed for long-term comfort.
Here's everything you need to know to decide if the budget-friendly classic or the upgraded ergonomic model is the right chair for your home office.
IKEA Markus Office Chair
The Markus is IKEA's long-standing, best-selling office chair, known for its high back, built-in lumbar support, and outstanding value. For years, it has been the go-to choice for those seeking a reliable, no-frills chair that covers the basics of ergonomic support without a high price tag. Its straightforward design focuses on durability and essential comfort for everyday tasks.
- What it is: A best-selling budget office chair with a high back and mesh backing for breathability.
- Key features: High backrest for head and neck support, breathable mesh back, fixed armrests, and a safety-caster mechanism that locks wheels when the chair is empty. Includes height and tilt adjustments.
- Price: Around $289.99 (varies by color/material)
- Dimensions: Seat height adjusts from 19" to 22.5", Overall height is 52" - 55". Tested for up to 242 lbs.
- Materials/Construction: Features a steel frame and base with a choice of polyester fabric or bonded leather for the seat and headrest. The backrest is primarily a durable mesh.
- Style: Utilitarian and functional, with a slightly bulky profile. Available in basic, neutral colors that fit into most modern office spaces.
- Pros: Excellent value for the price. The high back and mesh material provide good support and airflow. Durable steel frame is built to last. Simple and easy to assemble.
- Cons: Lacks significant adjustability - no adjustable armrests, seat depth, or lumbar support. The armrests are fixed and may not fit under all desks. Lumbar curve might not fit all body types.
The Markus is a great choice for budget-conscious buyers, students, or anyone who needs a solid chair for a few hours of work a day but doesn't require precise ergonomic tuning.
Shop this product: ikea.com/us/en/p/markus-office-chair-svanby-gray-90521858/
IKEA Järfjället Office Chair
The Järfjället is IKEA's answer to the more premium ergonomic chair market, offering the adjustability and tailored support found in higher-end models. As a step up from the Markus, its main selling point is customization. You can adjust nearly everything - from the seat depth to the headrest - to create a fit that's personalized to your body, making it a viable option for full-time work-from-home use.
- What it is: An upscale, highly adjustable ergonomic office chair from IKEA designed for personalized comfort during long work sessions.
- Key features: Adjustable headrest, adjustable lumbar support, adjustable seat depth, and height-adjustable armrests. The chair also offers tilt and height adjustments with lock functions.
- Price: Around $369.99
- Dimensions: Seat height adjusts from 18" to 22", Seat depth adjusts to accommodate different leg lengths. Tested for up to 242 lbs.
- Materials/Construction: The frame and base are aluminum. It comes with high-quality foam padding and is available in durable fabric or full-grain leather options.
- Style: Sleek, modern, and refined. Its clean lines and more compact profile give it a more sophisticated look than the Markus, fitting well in stylish home offices.
- Pros: Extensive ergonomic adjustments provide a custom fit. High-quality materials like aluminum and grain leather offer a more premium feel. Adjustable features support better posture for long hours. The sleek design looks more professional.
- Cons: Significantly more expensive than the Markus. Some users find the seat cushion to be firmer than expected. The sheer number of adjustments can take time to get right.
The Järfjället is intended for professionals, remote workers, or anyone who spends a significant portion of their day seated and needs tailored ergonomic support.
Shop this product: ikea.com/us/en/p/jaervfjaellet-office-chair-with-armrests-gunnared-beige-50580798/
IKEA Markus vs. Järfjället Comparison
Comfort & Ergonomics
This is the most crucial difference between the two chairs. The Markus offers basic ergonomic support - a high back and a fixed lumbar curve. It’s comfortable for many, but its one-size-fits-all approach means it won't be perfect for everyone. You cannot adjust the armrests, seat depth, or the position of the lumbar support, which are critical features for custom-tuning a chair to your body.
The Järfjället is designed specifically to address these shortcomings. You can fine-tune your seating position by sliding the seat forward or back, raising or lowering the lumbar support, and adjusting the headrest and armrests. This level of customization makes the Järfjället far superior for posture and comfort over long 8-hour workdays. While the Markus is generally comfortable, the Järfjället is undeniably a more ergonomic choice for full-time use.
Dimensions & Fit
The Markus is taller and has a slightly larger footprint, making it a better fit for taller individuals out of the box. Its high back has been a key reason for its popularity, providing solid head and shoulder support for those over 6 feet. However, its fixed nature means shorter users may find the headrest pushes their head forward, and the fixed armrests can prevent the chair from sliding under lower desks.
While the Järfjället's back is slightly shorter, its adjustable headrest compensates for this, allowing users of various heights to find a comfortable neck position. Its main advantage is the adjustable seat depth, which is highly beneficial for both short and tall users. This feature lets you adjust the seat pan to properly support your thighs without pressing against the backs of your knees - something the Markus can't do.
Materials & Construction
Both chairs have passed the same durability tests, but they use different materials that affect their looks and feel. The Markus uses a strong steel frame, which contributes to its sturdy reputation and slightly heavier build. Its primary finishes are polyester fabric or bonded leather, both of which are durable but fairly basic.
The Järfjället sports a more lightweight yet strong aluminum frame and base, giving it a more polished finish. Upholstery options include a tight-weave Gunnared fabric or genuine grain leather, both of which feel a step above the Markus's materials. Overall, the Järfjället has a more premium construction that's visible in both its materials and mechanical components.
Price & Value
The Markus offers exceptional value. For under $300, it's hard to find an office chair with a high back, breathable mesh, and a 10-year warranty. It provides 80% of what most people need for a fraction of the cost of premium ergonomic chairs, making it a smart budget-friendly purchase.
The Järfjället is more expensive, but the price increase is directly tied to its extensive adjustability. If you need adjustable lumbar support, seat depth, and armrests to prevent back or leg pain, then the extra cost is well worth it for your health and comfort. It bridges the gap between basic chairs and high-end brands like Herman Miller, providing significant ergonomic value for its mid-range price.
Style & Aesthetics
The Markus has a classic office chair look - it's functional, straightforward, and a bit imposing due to its tall, straight back. It's not designed to be a statement piece but rather to blend into a workspace without fuss.
The Järfjället showcases a more modern, Scandinavian design ethos. With its curved lines, sleek aluminum base, and tidier proportions, it looks much more intentional and stylish. For users curating a design-forward home office, the Järfjället's more refined appearance is a clear winner.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both chairs are excellent options backed by IKEA's 10-year warranty, but they're built for different users and work habits.
Choose the Markus if:
- You're on a tight budget and want the best value for your money.
- You need a chair for part-time or casual use (a few hours a day).
- You're taller and appreciate a high backrest without needing fine-tuned adjustments.
- Functionality is more important to you than advanced ergonomics or high-end style.
Choose the Järfjället if:
- You work from home full-time and need a chair that supports you for 8+ hours a day.
- You have specific ergonomic needs, like adjustable lumbar support or seat depth.
- You want more control over how your chair fits your body and desk setup.
- Aesthetics are important, and you prefer a sleek, premium-looking chair for your office.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between the Markus and the Järfjället?
The primary difference is adjustability. The Järfjället offers adjustable lumbar support, seat depth, headrest, and armrests, providing a customizable ergonomic fit. The Markus only offers height and tilt adjustments with fixed features, making it a less personalized chair.
Which IKEA chair is more comfortable?
Comfort is subjective, but the Järfjället is generally more comfortable for more people over long periods because it can be adjusted to fit an individual's body. The Markus is comfortable for those who happen to fit its fixed shape well, but the Järfjället's tailored support prevents fatigue and discomfort better during full workdays.
Is the Järfjället worth the price increase over the Markus?
Yes, if you work from home or spend more than 4-5 hours a day at your desk. The improved ergonomics can make a significant difference in preventing back, neck, and leg strain, making it a valuable long-term investment in your health.
Which chair is better for tall people?
The Markus is often recommended for taller individuals due to its naturally high back. However, the Järfjället's adjustable seat depth and headrest can provide a more dialed-in fit for tall users, especially if they have longer legs. It's best to try both if possible.
How deep is the seat on the Markus vs. Järfjället?
The Markus has a fixed seat depth of 18 1/2". The Järfjället’s seat depth is adjustable, typically ranging from about 17" to 19". This makes the Järfjället more versatile for users with different thigh lengths.
What are the key material differences?
The Järfjället uses more premium materials, featuring an aluminum base and the option of genuine grain leather, giving it a more upscale feel. The Markus has a steel base and comes in fabric or bonded leather, which are durable but less refined.
Which chair has better lumbar support?
The Järfjället has demonstrably better lumbar support because it is adjustable. You can move the support up or down to align perfectly with the curve of your lower back. The Markus has a fixed lumbar curve built into its mesh back, which may or may not provide support in the right spot for you.
Can I try these chairs before buying?
Yes, one of the biggest benefits of IKEA is its physical stores. You can visit a showroom and test both the Markus and Järfjället chairs in person to see which one feels better for your body shape and preferences.
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