Open Console vs. Drawer Console: Which Storage Style Fits Your Entryway?
Both are entryway console tables, but they organize storage in opposite ways — one keeps everything visible on open tiers, the other hides items behind closed drawers.
Quick Verdict
The open industrial console suits anyone who wants quick-grab visibility for keys and mail. The drawer console suits anyone who wants entryway clutter fully hidden from view.
Key Differences
- Visibility: the open console keeps everything visible on three tiers; the drawer console hides contents behind closed doors
- Style: the open console reads industrial and modern; the drawer console has a retro navy finish
- Access speed: open tiers offer instant grab-and-go access; drawers take an extra step to open
- Clutter control: closed drawers hide mess better than open shelving
Feature Comparison
| Spec | GILLAS | Merax |
|---|---|---|
| Tiers | 3 | — |
| Style | Industrial | — |
| Frame | Metal | — |
| Assembly | Tool-free per listing | — |
| Drawers | — | 2 |
| Shelf | — | Open lower shelf |
| Finish | — | Retro navy |
GILLAS
- Three-tier storage
- Industrial metal frame
- No-extra-tools assembly
- The industrial metal-frame look is a specific style that won't suit every room
- Three open tiers keep items visible rather than hidden, unlike a closed-cabinet console
- Some assembly is still required despite the tool-free claim
Merax
- Two storage drawers
- Retro navy finish
- Open lower shelf
- The navy retro finish is a specific style choice, distinct from a neutral or industrial look
- Two drawers offer less open display space than a fully open-shelf console
- A more substantial build than an open console means more assembly and weight
Best For: GILLAS
An entryway that wants quick, visible access to daily items like keys and mail.
Best For: Merax
An entryway that wants clutter fully hidden behind closed storage.
Value Considerations
Both are similarly positioned in price — the real decision driver is storage philosophy (visible vs. hidden) and style preference (industrial vs. retro) rather than cost.
Final Recommendation
Choose open shelving if you want items visible and instantly accessible. Choose the drawer console if you'd rather entryway clutter stay out of sight entirely.
FAQ
Which is easier to keep looking tidy?
The drawer console is generally easier to keep looking tidy since clutter stays hidden, while an open console requires more intentional styling to avoid looking messy.
Can either work as a TV stand?
The open industrial console is explicitly designed to double as a TV stand; the drawer console is more focused on entryway storage use.