The IKEA Mittzon and Bekant series are two popular office furniture lines from IKEA, but they cater to very different needs. Mittzon is the budget-friendly, lightweight option designed for casual, temporary, or small spaces, while Bekant is a more robust, ergonomic, and professional choice built for long-term daily use and backed by a 10-year warranty.
Here's everything you need to know to decide if the affordable Mittzon or the durable Bekant is the right fit for your workspace.
IKEA Mittzon Series
The Mittzon collection is IKEA's answer for simple, flexible, and affordable office furniture. It's designed for those who need a practical workspace without the frills or higher cost of professional-grade systems. Its lightweight construction and minimalist design make it a great fit for dorm rooms, rental apartments, or secondary workspaces where needs might change.
- What it is: A collection of basic office furniture, including desks and storage units, designed for affordability and light to moderate use.
- Key features: Simple, utilitarian designs, lightweight construction for easy mobility, available in neutral finishes that blend into most decor.
- Price: Highly budget-friendly, with desks typically starting around $80 and other pieces ranging from $50 to $200.
- Dimensions: Best for smaller spaces, with most desks measuring between 40-60 inches in width and 20-30 inches in depth.
- Materials/Construction: Primarily made from particleboard with simple melamine or laminate surfaces.
- Style: Minimalist and straightforward. The aesthetic is functional and gets the job done without making a big statement.
- Pros: Extremely affordable, making it accessible for almost any budget. Lightweight and easy to move or reconfigure. Its simple design works in many different environments. Compact sizes are perfect for small rooms.
- Cons: Not as durable as more expensive lines for heavy, daily use. Materials may not withstand years of constant wear. Fewer features or opportunities for customization compared to Bekant.
The Mittzon is ideal for students, renters, or anyone needing a cost-effective furniture solution for a temporary or casual home office.
Shop this product: ikea.com/us/en/p/mittzon-series-collection-s99500000/
IKEA Bekant Series
The Bekant series is a proven workhorse in IKEA’s office lineup, trusted for years in both home offices and professional environments. It focuses on durability, ergonomics, and modular flexibility, allowing users to build a workspace that suits their specific needs. With options for adjustable height desks and a range of sizes, it’s a serious long-term investment in your work comfort and productivity.
- What it is: A versatile and durable system of office furniture with a focus on ergonomics, modularity, and professional use.
- Key features: Electric sit-stand desk options, integrated cable management nets, sturdy steel frames, and a 10-year limited warranty.
- Price: Mid-range, with standard desks priced between $200 and $250 and adjustable height models costing more.
- Dimensions: Available in a wide variety of sizes, from compact 47" widths to large, L-shaped configurations.
- Materials/Construction: Strong steel frames paired with particleboard tops finished in durable laminate or handsome veneer.
- Style: Clean, modern, and professional. The sleek lines and refined finishes fit well in dedicated home offices or commercial settings.
- Pros: Built to last with high-quality materials and a 10-year warranty. Ergonomic options, including adjustable height, support a healthier work routine. Modular design allows for customization. Integrated cable management keeps the workspace tidy.
- Cons: Significantly more expensive than the Mittzon series. Heavier construction makes it more difficult to assemble and move. May be oversized for very small or temporary living spaces.
The Bekant is the right choice for professionals, remote workers, or anyone creating a dedicated, long-term workspace where durability and ergonomics are key.
Shop this product: ikea.com/us/en/p/bekant-series-collection-20445709/
Mittzon vs. Bekant Comparison
Dimensions & Scale
The most immediate difference is in sizing and adaptability. The IKEA Mittzon series offers smaller, more compact pieces perfect for apartments, dorms, and multi-use rooms where space is at a premium. Its fixed dimensions are straightforward and easy to plan for.
Conversely, the Bekant series is built for flexibility. It offers a much wider range of tabletop sizes, including large corner configurations perfect for dedicated office rooms. This modular approach allows you to create a more expansive and customized workstation compared to the one-size-fits-most approach of the Mittzon.
Ergonomics & Functionality
This is where the Bekant series truly stands apart. Its main selling point is ergonomics, most notably seen in its popular electric sit-stand bases. The ability to switch easily between sitting and standing is a major benefit for anyone spending long hours at their desk. The Bekant also includes thoughtful features like an under-desk cable management net to keep cords organized and out of sight.
The Mittzon series is functional but far more basic. Its desks are standard fixed-height surfaces without a lot of ergonomic adjustments or integrated features. It provides a simple place to work but lacks the comfort-focused features required for full-time professional use.
Materials & Durability
Bekant is engineered for longevity. With its heavy-duty steel frames and thick, durable tabletop finishes, it's designed to withstand the rigors of daily use in a busy office. This is why IKEA confidently backs it with a 10-year limited warranty - it’s meant to last.
Mittzon's construction, using lighter-weight particleboard, focuses more on affordability. While perfectly suitable for occasional work or lighter loads, it doesn't offer the same long-term resistance to scratches, warping, or general wear that Bekant does, a significant trade-off for its lower price.
Price & Value
On price alone, Mittzon is the clear winner. Its low cost makes it incredibly attractive to anyone on a tight budget. For just under $100, you can get a functional desk. For short-term needs, this can be unbeatable value.
However, Bekant offers superior long-term value. Though its upfront cost is higher, its robust construction and 10-year warranty mean you’re purchasing a piece of furniture that will serve you well for years. If your workspace is a daily fixture in your life, Bekant's value comes from its longevity, ergonomics, and durability.
Who Each One Works Best For
The Mittzon collection is the perfect match for students setting up a dorm room, renters needing an inexpensive temporary desk, or anyone creating a secondary workspace for light tasks. It excels in casual environments where affordability and a small footprint are the most important factors.
Bekant is made for the dedicated remote worker, freelancer, or business professional who demands a reliable, comfortable, and ergonomic workstation. Its durability, customization, and warranty make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who sees a desk as an essential tool for their career.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both furniture lines serve different budgets and needs, but one is certainly a better fit depending on your priorities. Choose Mittzon if you are on a strict budget and need the cheapest practical option. You need a desk for a temporary setting or infrequent use, and your workspace is very small and you need a compact desk. Lightweight furniture that's easy to move and assemble is a top priority.
Choose Bekant if you work from home full-time and value ergonomic support and durability. You want a desk backed by a long warranty. You plan to use a sit-stand desk and want electric height adjustability. You value the look and feel of a more professional-grade office furniture choice built for daily use.
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