When BrickBox was founded 15 years ago, there were hardly any modular shelving options on the market. Today, the variety is much greater, making it harder to choose the best modular shelving.
In this article, we compare some of the best options on the market. We believe BrickBox remains one of the benchmarks in modular shelving.
The comparison and ranking are based on several key criteria: material quality, configuration versatility, ease of assembly, delivery time, variety of colors and finishes, ease of transport, and value for money.
BrickBox
BrickBox is a modular shelving system made from birch plywood, known for its versatility, high-quality materials, and ease of both assembly and transport. It is designed to adapt and evolve with changing space requirements.
Material: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5
Made from FSC-certified birch plywood, it is stronger, more durable, and has a longer lifespan than common alternatives such as MDF. BrickBox modules are made from 12 mm white-laminated birch plywood, providing high structural strength and preventing warping.
Versatility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5
BrickBox is a truly modular shelving system, not a made-to-measure piece of furniture. This allows it to be easily reconfigured as needs change: it can be set up as a bookcase, wall-mounted shelving, wardrobe, display cabinet, sideboard, or even a room divider, among many other possibilities. It also offers accessories such as shelves, doors, legs, and wheels, which can be added later on. Note that certain configurations require a minimum base of two modules.
Assembly: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5
The shelving units are delivered in flat-pack format. Assembly is quick and easy, requiring no complex tools, just a screwdriver, preferably electric. Each module takes around 4 minutes to assemble and can be done by one person without special skills or strength. The modules connect using nylon dowels, making the process very simple. BrickBox does not need to be fixed to the wall.
Delivery time: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5
All items are in stock. Orders are prepared, shipped, and delivered within a maximum of one week.
Colors: ⭐⭐⭐ 3/5
BrickBox is available in two main finishes: white and oak. The doors can be combined in various colors, such as yellow, grey, green, and white.
Transportability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5
One of BrickBox’s key advantages is its ease of transport. The shelving can be easily disassembled module by module, even with items inside, to move it to another room or during relocation. In addition, the modules feature handles, making them easier to carry compared to other modular systems.
Price: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5
BrickBox maintains a competitive price within its category. It stands out for its balance between material quality, design, and cost, offering a very strong value for money compared to other alternatives on the market.
Final score: 4.4 out of 5
Muuto (Stacked)
Muuto Stacked is a Scandinavian-designed modular shelving system. It is a flexible and highly configurable solution.
Material: ⭐⭐⭐ 3/5
It is made from PU-lacquered MDF or oak-veneered fiberboard. It offers a good aesthetic finish, although it does not match the strength and durability of materials such as birch plywood.
Versatility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5
It allows modules of different sizes, positions, and orientations to be combined, creating a wide range of compositions. It also includes accessories such as bases, acoustic panels, and specialized modules.
Assembly: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5
The modules are delivered pre-assembled and connected using clips. Assembly is quick and easy, with no complex tools required. It can be wall-mounted for added stability.
Delivery time: ⭐⭐⭐ 3/5
Delivery times depend on the distributor and may vary, sometimes being longer due to its design-focused nature.
Colors: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5
Available in a wide range of colors and finishes, including neutral tones and more contemporary options.
Transportability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5
The shelving is easy to disassemble and reconfigure. The modules include a back panel, allowing for transport even with items inside. However, it does not include handles or specific features to facilitate movement.
Price: ⭐⭐ 2/5
The price is relatively high considering the materials used.
Final score: 3.7 out of 5
IKEA (Kallax / Eket)
IKEA modular shelving systems, such as Kallax and Eket, are versatile solutions known for their functionality and affordability.
Material: ⭐⭐ 2/5
They are mainly made from particleboard and honeycomb paper filling with laminated coatings, which are far less durable and resistant than materials like birch plywood. The advantage is that it is a sustainable material, as it is made from recycled components.
Versatility: ⭐⭐⭐ 3/5
They allow multiple configurations by combining modules, although all share the same dimensions. As accessories, they offer drawers, storage boxes, doors, and shelves.
Assembly: ⭐⭐⭐ 3/5
They are delivered flat-packed and require full assembly using screws. Although the process is not especially complicated, it is more labor-intensive than with systems that do not require tools. Wall fixing is recommended.
Delivery time: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5
Immediate store availability or fast delivery, generally within a few days.
Colors: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5
They offer a range of colors, mainly white, black, and wood-effect finishes. Some accessories, such as storage boxes, slightly expand the available options.
Transportability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5
The shelving is easy to transport thanks to its cube-based format. It is usually fixed to the wall, which reduces how easy it is to disassemble. Kallax has no back panel, which means the cubes cannot be moved with their contents still inside. It does not include features such as handles or specific solutions to make moving easier. Even so, the modules are lightweight and easy to move.
Price: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5
They fall within the budget range, making them one of the most affordable options on the market. The value for money is fair.
Final score: 3.7 out of 5
Stocubo
Stocubo is a modular shelving system based on cube units connected with clips. It stands out for its minimalist design, ease of assembly, and reconfiguration.
Material: ⭐⭐⭐ 3/5
Stocubo modules are made from melamine-coated MDF with a resin finish. This material is less resistant and less durable than higher-quality options such as birch plywood.
Versatility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5
Stocubo shelving is reconfigurable and allows for different setups, although not with complete freedom. They offer accessories such as doors, drawers, and LED light strips. Doors can be added later, however, drawers and LED lighting cannot be added afterwards or installed in any module, as they require specific components.
Assembly: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5
The modules are delivered pre-assembled and only need to be connected using clips. No wall fixing is required.
Delivery time: ⭐⭐ 2/5
Delivery time ranges between 3 and 7 weeks.
Colors: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5
Stocubo offers laminated finishes in white, black, and blue. Doors are available in these colors, as well as yellow, two shades of green, and two shades of pink.
Transportability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5
The shelving can be easily disassembled by removing the clips connecting the pieces, and it is easy to transport thanks to its cube format. It does not include handles or specific solutions to facilitate movement.
Price: ⭐⭐⭐ 3/5
Stocubo is priced higher than other options, especially considering that its material quality is lower than premium alternatives like birch plywood, which reduces its overall value for money.
Final score: 3.6 de 5
String System
String System is a modular shelving system of Swedish origin, considered an icon of Scandinavian design. It is based on a lightweight structure of metal side panels combined with wooden shelves, allowing for various minimalist compositions, always mounted to the wall. The system combines lacquered steel side panels with shelves made from wood-veneered particleboard.
Material: ⭐⭐⭐ 3/5
The system combines lacquered steel side panels with shelves made from wood-veneered particleboard. This provides a clean aesthetic and a refined finish, but structurally it does not match the strength of solid plywood or more robust metal systems. It is designed more for light loads and domestic use rather than supporting heavy weight.
Versatility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5
It allows for many combinations thanks to its variety of modules, including shelves, cabinets, drawers, desks, and accessories, although it always requires wall mounting.
Assembly: ⭐⭐⭐ 3/5
The system requires wall installation. While it is not especially complex, it is more technical than other modular systems, as it requires proper levelling, a suitable wall surface (not plasterboard), and correct fixing to ensure stability.
Delivery time:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5
Delivery is fast, between 4 and 5 days after placing the order.
Colors: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5
It offers a range of finishes for both the structure and shelves, including neutral colors and natural wood tones, although it is less varied than other modular systems.
Transportability: ⭐⭐ 2/5
It is a detachable system, but since it is wall-mounted in most cases, it is not designed to be moved frequently. Dismantling it means reinstalling it in a different space, which makes it less practical than freestanding solutions.
Price: ⭐⭐⭐ 3/5
It is positioned in the mid-to-high range of the market. It is not as expensive as premium systems like USM, but it is not a budget option either.
Final score: 3.4 out of 5
Leroy Merlin (Spaceo Kub)
Spaceo Kub is a modular shelving system based on independent cube units connected with clips. It allows for simple configurations at a very affordable price.
Material: ⭐⭐ 2/5
It is made from approximately 16 mm particleboard with a white finish. While it offers a decent aesthetic finish, it is significantly inferior in terms of durability and strength compared to higher-quality materials.
Versatility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5
It allows different configurations by combining cubes of various sizes and orientations. It includes accessories such as doors, drawers, and shelves.
Assembly: ⭐⭐⭐ 3/5
It is delivered flat-packed and requires assembly using screws. The process is simple, although slower than systems that do not require tools. The modules are connected using clips. Wall anchoring is recommended, but fixing elements are not included.
Delivery time: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5
Available for in-store pickup or fast delivery, although some models may occasionally be out of stock.
Colors: ⭐⭐⭐ 3/5
Available in a limited range of finishes, mainly white and wood-effect.
Transportability: ⭐⭐⭐ 3/5
As a modular and detachable system, it allows reconfiguration and relocation. If wall-mounted, moving it becomes more complex, and since it has no back panel, it cannot be transported with items inside. It does not include handles or specific features designed to facilitate movement.
Price: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5
It is a very affordable option, in line with the materials and finishes offered.
Final score: 3.4 out of 5
Tylko
Tylko is a made-to-measure shelving system that stands out for its high level of customisation and contemporary design. It is designed to adapt fully to the available space and offers a wide variety of finishes.
Material: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5
Tylko offers three material options for its shelving. You can choose between particleboard or MDF, which are less durable than its premium option: 13-ply birch plywood.
Versatility: ⭐⭐⭐ 3/5
Tylko is a made-to-measure shelving system, not a modular one. The shelving adapts completely to the available space, but it is difficult to reconfigure once installed. As for accessories, it allows doors and drawers to be included, although their position must be defined from the start. It offers great versatility during the design phase, as it allows almost any configuration to be created, but that flexibility is reduced once the unit has been assembled.
Assembly: ⭐⭐⭐ 3/5
The shelving modules are delivered individually assembled with pre-installed fittings and are joined together by pressure fitting. The unit is assembled by following a manual with colour-coded guidance and personalised instructions. Although it is not especially complex, because it is a made-to-measure configuration it is more structured and time-consuming than simpler modular systems. It may involve using an included tool or a rubber mallet to ensure the pieces fit properly. Tylko does not need to be screwed to the wall.
Delivery time: ⭐⭐ 2/5
It depends on the shelving unit, but delivery is usually made around 5 weeks after the design is finalised. Since each order is different and requires custom preparation and packaging, delivery may take up to 8 weeks.
Colors: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5
One of Tylko’s greatest strengths is its high level of colour customisation. It offers a wide variety of finishes and colours, ranging from neutral tones to more striking options.
Transportability: ⭐⭐ 2/5
Dismantling Tylko is more laborious and complex than with other options, especially because the modules include pre-installed fittings. It also requires tools to separate the pieces, which makes handling and transport more difficult. As a made-to-measure solution, it is not intended to be dismantled and reconfigured frequently, nor to adapt easily to new spaces. It does not include features such as handles or specific solutions to make moving easier.
Price: ⭐⭐ 2/5
Tylko belongs to the high-end segment. Its approach is more focused on aesthetics and made-to-measure adaptation than on cost optimisation, resulting in a higher price than other options.
Final score: 3.3 out of 5
Rio Regalsystem
Rio Regalsystem is a high-end modular shelving system that stands out for its minimalist and elegant design.
Material: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5
It is made from birch plywood (multiplex) with a melamine resin coating, a high-quality material that offers excellent strength, stability, and durability compared with options such as MDF or particleboard.
Versatility: ⭐⭐⭐ 3/5
Although it is presented as a modular system and allows a high level of initial customisation, its structure is more rigid than that of other systems. The configuration is mainly defined at the time of purchase and is not intended to be easily modified or reconfigured over time. This limits its adaptability compared with truly modular solutions.
Assembly: ⭐⭐⭐ 3/5
Rio uses an assembly system based on joining parts with metal rails. Although it is intended to be modular, assembly is more technical and structured than in simpler systems. Wall anchoring is not required.
Delivery time: ⭐⭐⭐ 3/5
Made to order, with delivery times of 14 to 21 days.
Colors: ⭐⭐⭐ 3/5
Available in a more limited selection of colours, including white, black, and more specific tones such as aubergine or orange.
Transportability: ⭐⭐⭐ 3/5
As a detachable modular system, it allows reconfiguration and relocation. However, its joining system means it is not as quick to dismantle as simpler solutions. It does not include features such as handles or specific solutions to make moving easier.
Price: ⭐⭐ 2/5
It is positioned in the high-end segment, in line with the quality of its materials, level of customisation, and made-to-order production.
Final score: 3.1 out of 5
USM Haller
USM Haller is a Swiss modular system based on a structure of chrome-plated steel tubes and metal panels. It was originally designed for offices but is now widely used in homes thanks to its iconic aesthetic and durability.
Material: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5
It is made from a structure of chrome-plated steel tubes connected by metal nodes and lacquered steel panels. It is an extremely robust system, designed for intensive use and with a very long lifespan.
In terms of quality, it stands above materials such as MDF or wood-based boards, offering superior structural strength, although with a colder and more technical aesthetic.
Versatility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5
The system allows you to create virtually any type of furniture. It can be expanded and reconfigured over time by adding or modifying modules.
Assembly: ⭐⭐ 2/5
Assembly requires a certain level of technical precision and, in many cases, specific tools or even professional installation. It is not designed as a quick or intuitive system for the average user. This makes it less accessible than solutions intended for frequent assembly and disassembly.
Delivery time: ⭐⭐⭐ 3/5
As it is a made-to-configure modular system, production and delivery times are usually longer than with systems kept in standard stock. Lead times may vary, but they are generally not immediate.
Colors: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5
USM Haller offers a broad, though not excessive, selection of colours, with enough options to suit different styles, especially in contemporary interiors.
Transportability: ⭐⭐ 2/5
The system can be dismantled and reassembled, but it is not intended for frequent use in that way. The weight of the materials and the complexity of the assembly make it less practical to move than lighter modular systems.
It does not include features such as handles or specific solutions to make moving easier.
Price: ⭐ 1/5
It sits in a price range well above the other systems analysed. The cost per module can be double that of other alternatives, clearly positioning it as a premium option aimed at high-budget projects.
Final score: 3.1 out of 5
Comparison ranking and Total scores
| Brand | Material | Versatility | Assembly | Delivery | Colors | Transport | Price | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. BrickBox | 5/5 | 4/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 3/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 | 4.4/5 |
| 2. Muuto (Stacked) | 3/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 3/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 2/5 | 3.7/5 |
| 2. Ikea (Kallax / Eket) | 2/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 5/5 | 3.7/5 |
| 3. Stocubo | 3/5 | 4/5 | 5/5 | 2/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 | 3.6/5 |
| 4. String System | 3/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 | 2/5 | 3/5 | 3.4/5 |
| 4. Leroy Merlin (Spaceo KUB) | 2/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 5/5 | 3.4/5 |
| 5. Tylko | 5/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 2/5 | 5/5 | 2/5 | 2/5 | 3.3/5 |
| 6. Rio Regalsystem | 5/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 2/5 | 3.1/5 |
| 6. USM Haller | 5/5 | 5/5 | 2/5 | 3/5 | 4/5 | 2/5 | 1/5 | 3.1/5 |