What is the Difference Between a Dresser and a Chest of Drawers?

Choosing between a chest of drawers vs. a dresser is confusing. But what is the difference between a dresser and a chest of drawers? The differences between both furniture pieces are the size, number of drawers, and usage. 

What is the difference between a dresser and a chest of drawers?

A chest of drawers is relatively narrower and taller than a dresser. A chest of drawers can range from 44 to 60 inches in height. The width can also be between 24 and 38 inches. Chests and dressers typically have about the same depth, which ranges from 18 to 24 inches.

On the other hand, dressers are shorter than chests of drawers. A dresser’s standard height is between 26 to 40 inches. Dressers are wider than chests, with a standard dresser width between 30 to 70 inches. The depth, similar to chests, can range from 18 to 24 inches

Another apparent difference between a chest of drawers vs. a dresser is the drawer orientation and quantity. Chests are relatively smaller than dressers, which means they have fewer drawers.

A chest of drawers has at least four to six drawers stacked on top of each other in a single column. Meanwhile, a dresser has multiple columns of drawers, sometimes with a row of small drawers on top. The number of dresser drawers may range between six to nine.

Dresser drawers are more oversized, with some dresser types allowing for hanging items or clothes. Most dressers can also store clothes, books, or even kitchen sundries. Dressers in the bedroom may also be used as makeup vanities by mounting a mirror on top. 

A chest of drawers has at least four to six drawers stacked on top of each other in a single column. Meanwhile, a dresser has multiple columns of drawers, sometimes with a row of small drawers on top. The number of dresser drawers may range between six to nine.

For an in-depth look at the differences between chest of drawers and drawers, check out our ultimate guide. 

Browse Local Furniture Outlet’s website for an extensive variety of quality and affordable dressers or chests of drawers.