IKEA METOD vs SEKTION: Understanding the Difference
IKEA METOD vs SEKTION: What's the Difference?
If you've been researching IKEA kitchens online, you've probably encountered both the terms "METOD" and "SEKTION." It can be confusing because some guides reference METOD while others discuss SEKTION. Are they the same system? Different systems? Can you mix them? Here's the complete explanation.
The Short Answer
METOD and SEKTION are essentially the same kitchen cabinet system adapted for different markets:
- SEKTION is sold in North America (United States and Canada)
- METOD is sold in Europe, Asia, Australia, and most other markets worldwide
They serve the same function and share the same design philosophy, but they are not identical or interchangeable due to differences in dimensions and standards.
Why Two Systems?
The split exists because of different measurement standards and building conventions:
- North America uses imperial measurements (inches), and kitchens are designed around specific standard dimensions (e.g., 36" counter height, 24" cabinet depth)
- Europe and other markets use metric measurements (millimeters), with different standard dimensions (e.g., 85-90cm counter height, 60cm cabinet depth)
Rather than force one system to work in both measurement worlds, IKEA created two parallel systems optimized for their respective markets.
Key Dimension Differences
| Feature | SEKTION (North America) | METOD (Europe/Global) |
|---------|------------------------|----------------------|
| Base cabinet depth | 24" (61cm) | 60cm (23.6") |
| Base cabinet height | 30" (76cm) | 60cm or 80cm |
| Wall cabinet depth | 12" (30.5cm) | 37cm (14.6") |
| Wall cabinet widths | 12" to 36" | 20cm to 80cm |
| Counter height (with legs) | 36" (91.4cm) | 85-92cm |
| Leg height | 4" to 4-3/4" | 8cm or 16cm |
The differences seem small, but they matter. A METOD cabinet is not a drop-in replacement for a SEKTION cabinet and vice versa.
Door Front Compatibility
This is one of the most common questions we get from homeowners who found a METOD door front they love online but live in the US.
METOD and SEKTION door fronts are NOT interchangeable because:
- The hinge mounting positions are different
- The dimensions are different (METOD uses metric, SEKTION uses imperial)
- Even when widths are similar, heights differ
However, IKEA offers many of the same door front designs in both systems. The BODBYN, AXSTAD, HAVSTORP, and other popular styles are available in both SEKTION and METOD dimensions. The design is the same, only the physical dimensions differ.
#### Third-Party Fronts
Companies like Semihandmade, Reform, and Kokeena make custom fronts specifically for SEKTION cabinets. If you're ordering from a European third-party company, verify they offer SEKTION-compatible sizes. Most European front makers produce for METOD only. Learn more about our SEKTION cabinet system guide.
Hardware and Accessories Compatibility
Some IKEA kitchen accessories work across both systems, while others don't:
#### Generally Compatible:
- Internal organizers that sit inside drawers (VARIERA inserts, etc.)
- Freestanding accessories (KUNGSFORS rails, hooks, shelves)
- Lighting (OMLOPP, IRSTA) with adapters
- Handles and knobs
#### NOT Compatible:
- Cabinet boxes (different dimensions)
- Door fronts (different hinge positions and sizes)
- Drawer fronts (different sizes)
- Suspension rail systems (different mounting points)
- MAXIMERA drawers (sized specifically for each system)
Common Scenarios Where This Matters
#### Scenario 1: Moving from Europe to the US
If you're relocating from Europe to the US and want to bring your IKEA kitchen, the METOD cabinets won't fit standard American kitchen dimensions. Counter height, cabinet depth, and wall cabinet spacing will all be off. It's generally more practical to start fresh with SEKTION.
#### Scenario 2: Online Research and Inspiration
Many IKEA kitchen inspiration posts and YouTube videos come from European creators showing METOD kitchens. The designs and styles will translate, but specific product names and dimensions may differ. When you go to IKEA.com (US), look for the equivalent SEKTION products.
#### Scenario 3: Buying IKEA Kitchen Parts Internationally
We occasionally see clients try to buy door fronts from IKEA's European website for styles not yet available in the US. These won't fit SEKTION cabinets. If you want a style only available in METOD, third-party companies like Reform may offer similar options in SEKTION dimensions.
#### Scenario 4: Replacing Parts in an Older IKEA Kitchen
If you have an older IKEA kitchen in the US, it may use the AKURUM system (SEKTION's predecessor, discontinued in 2015). AKURUM parts are no longer available from IKEA, and SEKTION parts don't fit AKURUM cabinets. The solution is either third-party replacement parts or a full cabinet replacement.
The AKURUM Legacy
Before SEKTION, IKEA sold the AKURUM system in North America (roughly 2006-2015). Before METOD, Europe had other systems. If you're working with an older IKEA kitchen:
- AKURUM to SEKTION: Not compatible. Different dimensions, different hardware, different mounting systems.
- Upgrading from AKURUM: The most cost-effective approach is typically replacing the entire cabinet system rather than trying to adapt old cabinets.
What This Means for Your Kitchen Project
If you're installing an IKEA kitchen in the United States:
- Use SEKTION - This is the only IKEA kitchen system available in US stores and on IKEA.com/us
- Ignore METOD-specific advice regarding dimensions, but design inspiration is universal
- Verify third-party products are SEKTION-compatible before ordering
- Use the US IKEA kitchen planner which only includes SEKTION products
If you're planning an IKEA kitchen project in the NYC metro area or New Jersey, our team works exclusively with the SEKTION system and can help you navigate all the options. Schedule a consultation to get started.