Top 15 Best Bookcase of 2024 - Buying Guides

1. Best Budget - Furinno Luder Bookcase
2. Best for Small Spaces - Sauder Nova Loft Accent Storage
3. Best Overall - OIAHOMY Industrial Bookshelf
4. Best Modern - Sunon Wood Bookcase 5-Shelf 
5. Best Traditional - Furinno Pasir 4-Tier Bookcase

What Should You Consider Before Buying The Best Bookcase?

When selecting the best bookcase, there are various criteria to consider; the following are the important ones that we examined while compiling this list.

1. Material

Because bookshelves typically have to handle a lot of weight, choosing one constructed of solid and long-lasting materials is essential. The finest option is generally solid wood, although it may be fairly costly. Metal, which is very durable, and manufactured wood, which may have a lesser weight capability per shelf, are both more economical possibilities. 

2. Size

When comparing bookshelves, check their measurements to ensure they'll fit in your space. (You should also measure to make sure they'll fit through doorways or up narrow stairwells.) Other factors to consider are the height of the shelves and whether or not they can be modified. 

3. Weight Capacity

The weight of a book can be considerable. A one-foot row of average-sized books weighs roughly 20 pounds, so verify the weight capacity of bookcase shelves before buying. Each shelf should be able to handle 50 pounds or more if you wish to showcase a complete shelf of books (depending on its width). 

4. Traditional vs. Etagere

You'll come across the term "etagere" a lot when shopping. On the other hand, traditional bookcases have closed sides, which are great for holding books upright. On the other hand, open-ended etagere bookcases are better for exhibiting items. If you go with an etagere shelf, you'll also need to get some bookends.

1. What is the best type of wood for bookcases? 

Solid wooden bookcases made of oak, maple, or walnut are a high-quality, long-lasting option. On the other hand, hardwood bookshelves are heavy, difficult to move, and more expensive than those constructed of other materials. A less expensive option is plywood or wood veneers. 

2. What is the minimum size for a bookcase? 

The size of the bookshelf you need depends on how many books you have and how much space you have in your home. Count the total quantity of books in your collection and estimate their average width to select a bookcase (or many bookcases) large enough to hold them all. To calculate the amount of shelf space needed, multiply the average width by the total number of books.

3. Is it necessary to attach bookcases to the wall? 

Bookcases are optional to be mounted on the wall. If they are, you can position furniture and other items beneath the shelf to make a space look less cluttered and eliminate concerns about the bookcase tipping over.

4. What makes a good bookcase?

Weight capacity is a factor you should consider when choosing a bookcase if you need shelves that can support large numbers of books, thick hardcovers, and solid bookends. Most small units can support 15 to 25 pounds per shelf, while bigger units can support up to 50 pounds per shelf. 

5. How many books fit in a bookcase?

You may also calculate how many books will fit inside a foot (12 inches). You can use 12 books as the average number of volumes shelved per foot if each book has an average width of 1 inch. I advise lowering the height to 11 inches to give yourself more freedom to move.

The OIAHOMY Industrial Bookshelf wowed us with its streamlined form, high-quality craftsmanship, and pleasant juxtaposition of painted and natural materials. It has plenty of book storage and a secure back, but it's also as attractive as it is useful, thanks to its mid-century-inspired angled feet.