Where to Buy Used or Refurbished IKEA Markus Online

IKEA Markus is one of those chairs people actually search for used because it has been around for years, has a tall mesh back, and usually holds value better than many budget chairs. Here’s how to buy one online without overpaying.

Is a Used/Refurbished IKEA Markus Worth Buying?

A used or refurbished IKEA Markus can be worth buying if you want the main Markus benefits without paying the full new price. The Markus is known for its tall high-back design, mesh backrest, built-in lumbar support, padded seat, headrest area, armrests, adjustable seat height, tilt function, and lockable recline. It is not a tiny task chair; it has a taller frame and a more executive-style profile, which is one reason it stays popular on the used market.

The biggest advantage of buying a used IKEA Markus is that the chair is usually easy to recognize. Unlike many generic mesh office chairs, the Markus has a very specific silhouette: tall mesh back, broad padded headrest area, fixed armrests, five-star base, and a simple under-seat control setup. That makes it easier to spot in photos when sellers list it as “IKEA office chair” instead of using the actual Markus name.

A used Markus is most worth it when the chair is local pickup, clean, fully assembled, and priced low enough compared with the current IKEA price. Because the Markus is a bulky chair, shipping can be expensive. A low online price can become a bad deal if the shipping cost is high or if return shipping is the buyer’s responsibility.

A refurbished IKEA Markus can also be worth buying, but only if the seller clearly explains what was refurbished. For the Markus, meaningful refurbishment may include deep-cleaning the fabric seat, checking the mesh back tension, tightening the armrests and backrest connection, testing the gas lift, replacing damaged casters, checking the tilt lock, and inspecting the base. A seller simply wiping dust off the chair should not be enough to charge a refurbished premium.

The Markus is a better used buy than many cheap no-name office chairs because it has a recognizable design, strong resale demand, and replacement-style office chair parts may be easier to source for common wear items like casters. However, some parts are model-specific, especially the backrest, armrests, seat, and tilt mechanism. If those are cracked or badly worn, it may not be worth repairing.

The best used Markus buyer is someone who wants a simple, sturdy, high-back office chair and does not need advanced adjustments. The Markus does not offer the same level of adjustment as premium ergonomic chairs. The armrests are fixed, the lumbar support is built-in rather than highly adjustable, and the seat depth is not usually adjustable. If you already like the Markus feel, buying used can make sense. If you have never sat in one before, try one at IKEA or inspect it locally before buying.

Used vs Refurbished IKEA Markus: What Is the Difference?

A used IKEA Markus is usually sold as-is by a private owner, marketplace seller, office clear-out seller, or someone replacing their home-office setup. It may have normal wear such as a faded seat, light stains, worn caster wheels, compressed foam, scratches on the arms, or dust in the mesh. A used Markus may still be a good buy, but you should assume it has not been professionally inspected unless the seller says otherwise.

A refurbished IKEA Markus should have been cleaned, tested, repaired, or restored in some way before resale. For this specific chair, that should mean more than a quick wipe-down. A proper refurbished Markus listing should mention whether the seat fabric was cleaned, whether the gas cylinder holds height, whether the tilt lock works, whether the casters roll smoothly, whether the mesh back is intact, and whether all bolts and armrests are secure.

An open-box IKEA Markus is slightly different. It may be a return, display model, damaged-box item, or chair that was opened but barely used. Open-box can be a better deal than a heavily used chair, but only if all parts are included and the seller allows returns. Since IKEA chairs are assembled by the buyer, an open-box Markus should be checked for missing bolts, stripped screw holes, incorrect assembly, and damage from being taken apart.

The safest option is a refurbished or open-box Markus with a clear return policy. The cheapest option is usually a local used Markus from Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or OfferUp. The riskiest option is a shipped used Markus from a seller using only stock images and vague wording like “good condition” without showing the actual seat, mesh, base, and underside.

How Much Does a Used or Refurbished IKEA Markus Cost?

Used IKEA Markus pricing depends on color, age, condition, local demand, shipping, and whether the seller is a private owner or reseller. The Markus often holds value better than very cheap office chairs, so you may see used prices that feel surprisingly high. That does not always mean the chair is worth that amount.

A practical used/refurbished IKEA Markus price range is:

• $40–$75: A lower-priced local used Markus with visible wear, older fabric, scratched armrests, dusty mesh, or unknown age. This can be a good deal if the gas lift, tilt, frame, and casters still work properly.
• $75–$120: A normal used Markus in good condition. At this price, you should expect a clean seat, intact mesh, working tilt lock, stable height adjustment, secure armrests, and no major cracks.
• $120–$170: A very clean used, open-box, or lightly refurbished Markus. This range only makes sense if the chair is in excellent condition, has clear photos, and is still meaningfully cheaper than buying new from IKEA.
• $170 or more: Be careful. At this price, compare directly with a brand-new IKEA Markus. A used chair near new-chair pricing should come with a strong reason, such as open-box condition, free delivery, a return policy, or verified refurbishment.

Shipping is the biggest price trap when buying a used Markus online. The chair is tall and bulky, and many sellers either list it as local pickup only or charge a high shipping fee. If the seller disassembles the chair for shipping, ask whether the gas cylinder, base, backrest, armrests, bolts, washers, and tools are all included.

Before buying used, compare the total cost against a new chair and related items such as IKEA Markus office chair alternatives, replacement office chair casters, and office chair seat cushions. A used Markus is only a deal if the final cost stays low after shipping and possible replacement parts.

Where to Buy a Used or Refurbished IKEA Markus Online

eBay is one of the main places to look for a used, open-box, or refurbished IKEA Markus online. Search for “IKEA Markus,” “IKEA Markus office chair,” “Markus chair,” and “IKEA high back office chair” because not every seller uses the exact product name in the title.

When shopping for a Markus on eBay, first check whether the listing is for shipping or local pickup. Many Markus listings are local pickup because the chair is large and difficult to ship cheaply. Local pickup can be a good thing if the chair is nearby because you may save money and inspect it before payment.

Look closely at the photos. For a used IKEA Markus, the listing should show the front, side, back, seat cushion, mesh backrest, armrests, base, wheels, and underside. Be cautious if the seller only uses IKEA stock images. Stock photos do not tell you whether the seat is stained, the mesh is torn, the armrests are scratched, or the gas lift is failing.

Read the condition notes carefully. Words like “used,” “pre-owned,” “open box,” and “refurbished” can mean different things depending on the seller. A good listing should mention whether the height adjustment works, whether the recline/tilt lock works, whether the chair has stains or pet hair, and whether anything is missing.

Also check the seller’s feedback, return policy, and shipping terms. A used Markus can be expensive to return, so avoid vague listings where the seller does not accept returns and does not provide enough photos. If the price is close to the new IKEA price, it is usually better to buy new unless the used listing includes a very clear advantage.

Other Online Websites/Marketplace for Used/Refurbished IKEA Markus

• Facebook Marketplace: This is often one of the best places to find a used IKEA Markus locally. Search “IKEA Markus,” “Markus chair,” “IKEA office chair,” and “high back mesh chair.” Many sellers are people moving, upgrading their desk setup, or clearing out a home office. The big advantage is that you can inspect the chair, sit in it, test the gas lift, and check the mesh before paying.
• Craigslist: Craigslist can be useful for older used Markus chairs at lower prices, especially in larger cities. Search under furniture and office categories. Since Craigslist usually has less buyer protection, do not send deposits for a basic office chair. Meet safely, inspect the chair fully, and pay only after confirming the Markus is complete and functional.
• OfferUp: OfferUp is good for local used Markus listings, especially when sellers do not want to deal with shipping. Use broad search terms because some listings may say “IKEA desk chair” without saying Markus. Ask for close-up photos of the seat, mesh back, armrests, wheels, and underside before driving to pick it up.
• Mercari: Mercari may have used or open-box IKEA Markus listings, but shipping can be expensive because of the chair’s size. Check the shipping price, seller rating, condition details, and whether the photos show the exact chair. If the Markus has been disassembled for shipping, confirm all hardware is included.
• IKEA As-Is / Circular Hub: Depending on your location, IKEA may offer as-is, returned, display, or discounted furniture through its local store circular/as-is section. Availability changes often and may require local pickup. This can be a good option for a Markus because you may get a returned or display chair with clearer store-backed condition details.

Used or Refurbished IKEA Markus: Buying Tips & What to Avoid

• Confirm it is actually the IKEA Markus: The Markus has a tall mesh backrest, padded headrest area, padded seat, fixed armrests, and five-star wheeled base. Some sellers list other IKEA office chairs as “Markus style,” so compare the photos with the official IKEA Markus page before buying.
• Ask for the IKEA product label if possible: A label under the seat or on the chair parts can help confirm the product. Not every used chair will still have a clear label, but asking for it is useful when the listing photos are unclear or the seller uses a generic title.
• Check the mesh back carefully: The Markus has a large mesh back, so inspect it for tears, sagging, stretched areas, loose edges, punctures, and damage near the frame. Small dust or lint is normal, but ripped or detached mesh is a serious warning sign.
• Inspect the built-in lumbar area: The Markus is known for its built-in lumbar support. Check that the lower back area has not bent, cracked, separated, or become uncomfortable from wear. If the lower back section feels broken or uneven, the chair may not support properly.
• Check the headrest area: The top padded section can show wear, stains, hair product residue, fading, or fabric damage. Ask for a close-up photo because this part often gets overlooked in listings.
• Look at the seat cushion from the side: The Markus seat can compress over time. A side photo helps you see whether the cushion still has shape or looks flattened. If the front edge is crushed or the center is sagging, the chair may feel uncomfortable even if it looks okay from above.
• Test the height adjustment: Sit in the chair and raise it to full height. It should lift smoothly and stay up without sinking. A sinking Markus usually means the gas cylinder is worn. You may be able to replace a cylinder, but that adds cost and effort.
• Test the tilt and lock: The Markus should recline and lock according to its design. Check that the tilt is not stuck, loose, noisy, or uneven. If the tilt lock does not work, the chair may still be usable, but the price should be much lower.
• Check the fixed armrests: Markus armrests are not highly adjustable, so they need to be solid. Look for cracks, deep scratches, loose mounting points, missing bolts, or wobbling. Damaged armrests can be hard to fix neatly because they are model-specific.
• Inspect the base: Check all legs of the five-star base for cracks, bends, stress marks, and damage around the caster sockets. A cracked base is a deal-breaker because it affects safety and stability.
• Roll the chair on the floor: The casters should roll smoothly and stay firmly attached. If they squeak, drag, or wobble, you may need replacements. Before buying new wheels, compare the chair’s caster stem size with office chair wheel replacements.
• Check for missing bolts and assembly parts: If the Markus is disassembled, ask the seller to lay out all parts and hardware in a photo. Missing bolts, washers, covers, or armrest hardware can turn a cheap used chair into a frustrating project.
• Ask whether the chair was used in a smoke-free or pet-free home: Fabric seats and mesh backs can hold odors, pet hair, dust, and allergens. A chair that smells bad may be difficult to clean fully.
• Ask how long it was used: A Markus used lightly in a spare room is very different from one used eight hours a day for years. Ask about approximate age, daily usage, and why the seller is selling it.
• Request real photos, not stock photos: Real photos should show the exact Markus being sold. Avoid listings that only show clean IKEA product images unless the seller provides additional current photos.
• Ask for a short function video: For shipped purchases, ask the seller to show the actual chair raising, lowering, reclining, locking, rolling, and being viewed from all sides. This helps confirm the chair exists and works before payment.
• Be careful with “refurbished” wording: Ask what was refurbished. For a Markus, good answers include cleaned upholstery, tested gas lift, tested tilt lock, tightened frame, replaced casters, and inspected mesh. Vague answers like “works great” are not enough to justify a higher price.
• Do not overpay for an older Markus: The Markus has strong name recognition, so some sellers price used chairs too close to new. If the chair is old, stained, scratched, or has no return option, the discount should be meaningful.
• Watch out for high shipping costs: A used Markus can look cheap until shipping is added. Always compare the final delivered price with a new chair from IKEA before buying.
• Avoid cracked plastic or frame damage: Cracks near the backrest frame, armrest mounts, base, or underside are not simple cosmetic issues. These areas support weight and movement, so structural cracks should usually make you walk away.
• Avoid badly stained fabric: Light marks may clean up, but deep stains, odors, or unknown spills can be difficult to remove. If the seat looks dirty in photos, assume it may look worse in person.
• Avoid chairs with sinking height unless priced very low: A failing gas lift is fixable in some cases, but removing the old cylinder can be difficult. Factor in the cost of a replacement office chair gas lift cylinder before buying.
• Avoid listings with no return option and poor photos: A large used chair is expensive to return. If the seller gives you only one blurry image and refuses more photos, look for another Markus.
• Verify the color and version: IKEA Markus chairs have been sold in different colors and upholstery versions over time. Make sure the listing shows the exact color you want, especially if you are matching an existing desk setup.
• Check whether the original warranty matters: IKEA may offer long guarantees on some office chairs when bought new, but used-chair warranty transfer can depend on proof of purchase, region, and policy details. Do not value a used Markus as if it automatically includes the full original warranty unless you can verify it.
• Compare with new before paying: Search IKEA and Amazon before committing. Sometimes a new chair, a sale, or a similar alternative may cost only slightly more than a used Markus once delivery and possible repairs are included.

Used vs New IKEA Markus

A used IKEA Markus is best when the chair is clean, fully functional, and much cheaper than buying new. You can save money, avoid assembly if it is already built, and often find one locally because the Markus has been a popular IKEA office chair for years. Used is especially attractive when you can inspect it in person and test every function before paying.

A new IKEA Markus is better if you want a clean chair, full parts, easier returns, and the strongest chance of warranty support. Buying new also avoids common used-chair problems like worn seat foam, odors, dusty mesh, loose armrests, caster wear, and gas-lift failure.

The decision mostly comes down to price difference. If a used Markus is only slightly cheaper than new, buying new usually makes more sense. If a used Markus is half the cost, local, clean, and fully working, it can be a very good buy.

For many buyers, the sweet spot is a lightly used Markus from a local seller. You get the classic Markus design, tall back, mesh airflow, and simple controls without paying close to full retail. But if you need guaranteed condition, easy return options, and no hidden wear, new is the safer choice.

IKEA Markus Used/Refurbished FAQ

Is a used IKEA Markus worth buying?

Yes, a used IKEA Markus can be worth buying if it is clean, fully functional, and priced well below a new one. The best used Markus chairs have intact mesh, a firm seat cushion, working height adjustment, working tilt lock, solid armrests, and no cracks in the base or frame.

What is a good used price for an IKEA Markus?

A good used price is usually much lower than the current new IKEA price after shipping is included. Many buyers look for local used Markus chairs in the lower-to-mid used price range. If the used chair is close to new pricing, it should be extremely clean, open-box, or include a return option.

How do I know if a used IKEA Markus is authentic?

Compare the chair with the official IKEA Markus product page and look for its tall mesh back, padded headrest area, fixed armrests, padded seat, and five-wheel base. Ask for photos of the underside and any product labels. Be careful with listings that only say “IKEA style” or use stock photos.

What should I check first when buying a used IKEA Markus?

Check the mesh back, seat cushion, gas lift, tilt lock, armrests, base, wheels, and underside hardware. Sit in the chair if possible. Raise and lower it, recline it, roll it, and look for cracks, stains, odors, wobbling, and missing parts.

Is a refurbished IKEA Markus better than a used one?

A refurbished Markus can be better if the seller actually cleaned, inspected, tested, or replaced parts. However, “refurbished” is not always clearly defined. Ask exactly what was done before paying more than you would for a normal used Markus.

Can the gas cylinder on an IKEA Markus be replaced?

In many office chairs, gas cylinders can be replaced, but removal can be difficult and compatibility should be checked carefully. If a used Markus is sinking, factor in the cost of a replacement cylinder and tools before deciding whether the deal is still worth it.

Can I replace the wheels on a used IKEA Markus?

Worn wheels may be replaceable, but you should check caster stem size and fit before buying replacements. Do not assume every universal office chair wheel will fit perfectly. If the base itself is cracked, replacing the wheels will not solve the real problem.

Are IKEA Markus armrests adjustable?

The Markus armrests are generally fixed, so check that they are the right height for your desk and body before buying. Also inspect them for cracks, loose bolts, deep scratches, and wobbling because damaged armrests can be harder to replace than simple wheels.

Should I buy a shipped used IKEA Markus?

Only if the listing has clear photos, fair shipping cost, strong seller feedback, and a reasonable return policy. The Markus is bulky, so shipping can be expensive and damage can happen if the chair is packed poorly or disassembled incorrectly.

Is local pickup better for a used IKEA Markus?

Yes, local pickup is usually better because you can inspect the exact chair before paying. You can test the height, recline, wheels, armrests, seat cushion, and mesh back. It also avoids high shipping costs.

What are the biggest warning signs when buying a used Markus?

The biggest warning signs are torn mesh, cracked base, broken armrests, sinking gas lift, non-working tilt lock, strong odors, heavy stains, missing bolts, poor photos, and a seller who refuses to answer basic condition questions.

Does a used IKEA Markus still have warranty coverage?

Do not assume warranty coverage transfers to a second owner. Warranty terms may depend on the country, original receipt, purchase date, and IKEA policy. Ask the seller for proof of purchase and verify details with IKEA if warranty coverage matters to you.

Is an older IKEA Markus still worth buying?

An older Markus can still be worth buying if the frame is solid, the mesh is intact, the seat is comfortable, and all functions work. However, older chairs should be cheaper because the seat foam, gas lift, casters, and fabric may have more wear.

What questions should I ask the seller before buying?

Ask how old the chair is, why it is being sold, whether the height adjustment works, whether the tilt lock works, whether there are stains or odors, whether the mesh is torn, whether all hardware is included, and whether the photos show the exact chair.

Is a used IKEA Markus good for long work hours?

The Markus can work well for many people because of its tall back, mesh airflow, headrest area, and built-in lumbar support. However, it has limited adjustments compared with premium ergonomic chairs. If you need adjustable arms, seat depth, or highly adjustable lumbar support, try it before buying.

A used or refurbished IKEA Markus can be a great buy if the price is right and the chair is still solid. Focus on the mesh, seat cushion, gas lift, tilt lock, armrests, wheels, and base before paying. If the savings are small or the condition is unclear, buying new is usually the smarter move.