IKEA vs. Wayfair: Which Furniture Is Easier to Assemble?

Jul 15

Written By Shaun

Shopping online for furniture is easy. Assembling it? That’s where the real challenge begins. Two of the most popular affordable furniture brands—IKEA and Wayfair—are known for stylish designs but also mixed reputations when it comes to assembly.

So, which one is easier to put together? At 6IX Assembly, we’ve built hundreds of pieces from both brands. Here’s our honest take.

1. Instruction Manuals

📖 IKEA:

Famous for their picture-only manuals, no written instructions.
Diagrams are clear but minimal, meaning you have to pay close attention to tiny details.
Fewer steps but each step often combines multiple actions.

📖 Wayfair:

Uses step-by-step written instructions, usually clearer for first-time assemblers.
Each step is more broken down, but sometimes over-explained.
However, manuals can vary a lot between different manufacturers that sell on Wayfair.

✅ Easier winner: Wayfair – their instructions are more user-friendly for beginners, while IKEA manuals assume you’re already familiar with basic assembly.

2. Hardware & Parts

🔩 IKEA:

Hardware is well-organized and standardized, but they’re sometimes packaged all in one bag.
You’ll mostly see the same screws and dowels across different furniture, which makes it predictable.

🔩 Wayfair:

Hardware varies widely depending on the specific manufacturer—some kits are great, others confusing.
It’s common to get a giant mixed bag of parts with minimal labeling.

✅ Easier winner: IKEA – they’re consistent and more organized, making it easier to find the right parts.

3. Tools Needed

🛠️ IKEA:

Almost every IKEA product can be assembled with just a simple Allen key (included) and maybe a Phillips screwdriver.
Rarely do you need extra tools.

🛠️ Wayfair:

Often requires multiple tools: screwdrivers, hammer, and sometimes a power drill for efficiency.
Tools are rarely included.

✅ Easier winner: IKEA – fewer tools, less hassle.

4. Build Complexity

⚙️ IKEA:

Designs are modular and straightforward, but large pieces (like wardrobes or beds) can still take hours.
Pieces are usually engineered to fit together precisely, so mistakes can be hard to fix later.

⚙️ Wayfair:

Complexity depends entirely on the manufacturer. Some items are super simple, others are overcomplicated with lots of small pieces.
More variation in quality means more surprises.

✅ Easier winner: IKEA – while time-consuming, it’s more predictable.

5. Build Quality & Tolerances

📏 IKEA:

Pre-drilled holes and panels are accurate, meaning parts line up more easily.
Less chance of forcing pieces together.

📏 Wayfair:

Quality varies by brand; sometimes holes don’t align perfectly, or panels arrive warped.
Can require extra adjustments or drilling.

✅ Easier winner: IKEA – their quality control is more consistent.

6. Time to Assemble

⏱️ IKEA:

Small pieces (nightstands, chairs) are quick—15–30 minutes.
Larger items (wardrobes, beds) can take 2–4 hours even for pros.

⏱️ Wayfair:

Simple items can be very quick.
But complex furniture with many parts often takes longer than IKEA because of inconsistent design.

✅ Easier winner: Tie – small Wayfair items are faster, but IKEA large pieces are more predictable.

So, Which Is Easier Overall?

IKEA wins for consistency, simpler tools, and better part alignment.
Wayfair is hit-or-miss—some items are easier, others are much harder due to varying manufacturers.

If you’re DIY assembling, IKEA is usually the safer bet.
If you’re buying from Wayfair, check reviews for assembly difficulty before ordering.

How 6IX Assembly Makes It Easy

No matter if it’s IKEA, Wayfair, Structube, or even custom designer furniture, we’ve seen it all. Our team:

✅ Brings all tools needed for any furniture brand
✅ Organizes parts & hardware before starting
✅ Assembles efficiently & securely (and wall-mounts when needed)
✅ Cleans up packaging so you can enjoy your new space

Final Verdict

For DIY beginners: IKEA is generally easier.
For stylish variety: Wayfair offers more choices but may be harder to build.
For stress-free setup: Let 6IX Assembly handle it and skip the hassle altogether.

Need your IKEA or Wayfair furniture assembled in Toronto?
👉 Get a fast quote today and let us handle the hard part.