IKEA vs West Elm

What’s the Difference?

Shoppers looking for chic, affordable furniture might consider checking out IKEA or West Elm furniture stores. To discover which brand has the quality indoor or outdoor furniture you want at the prices you’re looking for, consider comparing the various aspects of shopping at West Elm vs. IKEA.

IKEA West Elm
Locations 450 + locations worldwide, 50 + stores in the U.S. 100 + locations across the U.S., Canada, Australia, & U.K.
Delivery Small order shipping & in-home delivery starting at a flat rate UPS shipping available, in-home delivery & assembly for qualifying purchases
Warranty 5- to 25- year limited warranties on select products No warranty policy. All returns accepted within 30 days of purchase
Selection Home furniture & decor, mattresses, appliances, outdoor accessories, etc. Living, dining & bedroom furniture, entryway, home office, outdoor, etc.
Styles Modern, minimalism, Scandinavian Modern, urban, transitional

West Elm vs. IKEA: Products & Pricing

Both West Elm and IKEA have in-house design teams that ensure each product features quality materials and showcases stunning style. However, each brand’s offerings come with a unique look and price point that may influence your decision between the two companies. Consider the designs and affordability of both stores to learn which one best suits your tastes and budget.

West Elm

Shoppers looking for stunning modern furnishings often choose West Elm for all their indoor and outdoor decorating needs. However, since the brand prioritizes fair trade, organic and handcrafted products, customers often end up paying a little extra for home furnishings and patio pieces from this retailer.

IKEA

Furniture from IKEA also has a simple, modern look with an emphasis on Scandinavian and minimalist styles. Since products come in pieces ready for DIY assembly, IKEA decor tends to cost a bit less than similar items at other stores. Low prices and lightweight designs make this retailer’s furnishings a favorite among students, renters and small families looking to decorate their homes on a budget.

Furniture Selection

Although IKEA and West Elm both offer vast selections of home and patio furniture, you might be able to find more of the housewares and decor items you’re looking for at one of these retailers than at the other. Learn what types of indoor and outdoor furniture these stores have available before you decide where you want to shop.

West Elm

Whether you’re searching for sectionals, beds or dining room ensembles, modern furniture is easy to find among West Elm’s large selection. You can also discover a variety of decor items, window treatments and accents for home offices, bathrooms, kitchens and entryways. If you’re looking for outdoor pieces, check out West Elm for:

  • Lounge Chairs
  • Outdoor Sofas
  • Dining Tables and Chairs
  • Patio Rugs
  • Outdoor Light Fixtures

IKEA

IKEA offers a massive assortment of home goods and furniture items. In addition to its vast selection of living room sofas, bed frames, mattresses, dining sets and home office decor, the brand has kitchen and bathroom appliances, textiles, electronics and foodstuffs. When it comes to furnishing your outdoor areas, IKEA offers several patio pieces, including:

  • Outdoor Seating
  • Dining Sets
  • Kid’s Patio Furniture
  • Storage Pieces
  • Grills and Cooking Accessories

Locations

As a worldwide retailer, IKEA operates over 450 storefronts around the globe, 50 of which are in the U.S. West Elm, on the other hand, is a Williams-Sonoma brand with more than 100 stores spread out among the U.S., Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom. Both brands have online stores, so shoppers around the world can have access to their furniture and decor collections.

West Elm and IKEA: Delivery

Customers who want convenient, affordable shipping from their home decor retailer may want to compare each company’s delivery policies and practices. Shipping costs and assembly services differ for these brands, and your location may determine whether your preferred store ships to your address.

West Elm

West Elm offers in-home delivery to customers in the continental U.S. Select this option at checkout, and the West Elm delivery team will assemble and set up select furnishings for an additional fee. Some smaller furniture and decorative accents may arrive via UPS or another local delivery option.

IKEA

Scheduled and in-home delivery options are available at IKEA, starting at a flat rate. However, furniture assembly is usually up to the customer. In-store pickup is typically free of charge unless your purchase needs to ship to another store. Most small items ship for a low rate and come with convenient package tracking options.

West Elm vs. IKEA: Warranties

West Elm

Rather than using a warranty program to back its products, West Elm offers a return policy that allows unsatisfied customers to bring their furniture and decor items back to the store within 30 days of purchase. Shoppers can also return products by mail, online or by arranging the return over the phone with a customer service representative.

IKEA

Limited warranties from IKEA provide coverage for anywhere from 5 to 25 years, depending on the product. A lifetime warranty comes standard with the brand’s quartz countertops as well. Repairs and product replacements are also available for defective items. Customers must have the original receipt as proof of purchase when making a claim.

The Final Decision: West Elm vs. IKEA

Both West Elm and IKEA are popular, successful brands. However, one of these retailers may be a better fit for the design, budget, and shopping experience you have in mind. Compare products, styles and prices for these two companies to ensure you make the right choice when selecting your home and patio furniture shopping destination.