If you’re comparing garage wall storage systems in Australia — StoreWALL, StorEase from Bunnings, GarageSmart, Ryobi Link, or pegboard — here’s the direct comparison. Jump to the detail section below the table if you want more context on each system, or scroll to which system suits your situation.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | StoreWALL | StorEase (Bunnings) | GarageSmart | Ryobi Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Solid PVC slatwall | Aluminium rail | PVC slatwall | Plastic modular panels |
| Panel dimensions | 304mm high × 1219mm or 2438mm — covers full wall | 150mm high × 1200mm — rails at set heights only | 304mm high × 2438mm — covers full wall | 165mm high × 838mm |
| Weight rating | 56kg (Standard Duty) / 148kg (Heavy Duty) per panel | 150kg per rail (stated) | Varies by installation | 94kg per module |
| Accessory range | 200+ items — hooks, shelves, baskets, bins, bags, specialist brackets | ~30 items — basic hooks, shelves, bins | 200+ items | ~30 items — Ryobi tool focused |
| Locking mechanism | CamLok — quarter-turn all-metal lock, no scratching on removal | Snap fit / clip system | Plastic Smartlock | Snap fit / screws |
| Colours available | 8 colours — Brite White, Weathered Grey, Blackwood, Global Pine, Rustic Cedar, Barnwood Grey, Graphite Steel, Whitewood | Silver aluminium — one finish | Limited — check direct | Grey — one finish |
| DIY installation | Yes — with InstallStrips, detailed guides provided | Yes | Installer preferred | Yes |
| Brick wall compatible | Yes | Yes | Yes (battens recommended) | Yes |
| Waterproof | Yes — solid PVC, mould resistant | Yes — aluminium | Yes — PVC | Yes |
| Price per panel (approx) | $131 per 2438mm panel | $31 per 1200mm rail | Quote based | $43 per 2-channel module |
| Where to buy | Online direct — storewall.com.au | Bunnings stores nationally + online | Installer network | Bunnings + tool retailers |
| Try before buying | Panel sample — $10.99 postage | Visit any Bunnings store | Contact company | Visit any Bunnings store |
| Warranty | 5 years — panels, InstallStrips and accessories | Bunnings returns policy | Check direct | Ryobi standard warranty |
| Pegboard compatible accessories | No — StoreWALL uses 76mm groove pitch | No | No | No |
| StoreWALL accessories compatible | Yes | Partial — not with black Slimline rail | Yes | No |
Prices are approximate and change regularly. Always check current pricing directly with each supplier before ordering.
Not sure which system suits your wall?
- Order a StoreWALL panel sample first — $10.99 postage, Brite White and Weathered Grey posted to you. Hold it against your wall before committing.
- Use the wall estimator — calculate how many panels you need for your wall dimensions.
- Call Arthur on 0411 280 646 — we’ll put together a complete materials list for your specific wall at no charge.
About Each System
If you’ve started researching garage wall storage in Australia, you’ve probably come across several systems — StoreWALL, StorEase from Bunnings, GarageSmart, Garagetek, TidyWall, Ryobi Link and possibly Gladiator GearWall. They all promise to transform your garage, but they differ significantly in how they work, what they can hold, what accessories are available, and what they cost over time.
StoreWALL
Australian-focused PVC slatwall system sold direct online. Premium price point with the widest accessory range of any system available in Australia. CamLok locking mechanism is unique to StoreWALL — quarter-turn, all-metal, no scratching on removal or repositioning. Wall panels are installed with metal InstallStrips for additional weight capacity and structural strength. Available in Standard Duty, Heavy Duty and MKE Slatwall variants.
StorEase (Bunnings)
Available in most Bunnings stores nationally and online. Lower entry price point, limited accessory range. Uses a track and hook proprietary system — aluminium rails mounted at specific heights rather than panels covering the full wall. The most accessible system if you want to buy and install the same day.
GarageSmart
Australian company offering a slatwall-based system with installation services. Primarily sold as a supply and installation package via a local agent or reseller network. Accessory range is extensive and covers most standard garage storage needs. Good choice if you don’t want to DIY.
GarageTek
GarageTek is part of the Attic Group — an Australian company with a construction background. Products can be ordered online or via a supply and installation service. Uses a similar wall panel system to StoreWALL and GarageSmart.
TidyWall
Sold through local dealers. Pricing is quote based and usually comes as a supply and installation package. Uses a similar wall panel approach to GarageSmart.
Ryobi Link
Ryobi’s modular wall storage system available through Bunnings and tool retailers. Designed specifically to integrate with Ryobi power tools and accessories. Works well if most of what you’re storing is Ryobi equipment — less suited to general garage storage where mixed items need to be accommodated.
Gladiator GearWall
Gladiator Garageworks has exited the Australian market. New panels are no longer available. Replacement hooks can still be purchased through the Gladiator Australia website.
The Detail Behind the Numbers
Material and Construction
StoreWALL and GarageSmart both use PVC slatwall — a rigid extruded plastic panel with horizontal channels that accept hooks and accessories. PVC doesn’t rust, warp with moisture, or deteriorate in the humidity common in Australian garages. It can be cut to size on site.
StoreWALL panels are designed to be mounted with InstallStrips — metal brackets fixed to wall studs first, with panels clicking onto them. This increases load distribution and means no screws go through the panel face.
StorEase uses a steel track system rather than full panels. Tracks are mounted individually at specific heights and hooks clip into the tracks. This is fundamentally different — lighter, lower cost, but with less structural coverage of the wall and fewer accessory options.
Ryobi Link uses a modular plastic panel system designed primarily to store and display Ryobi tools. Panels are smaller and the system is built around the Ryobi ecosystem rather than general storage.
Slatwall vs Pegboard — Key Differences
Pegboard is a common DIY alternative — perforated hardboard or steel sheet mounted to the wall with hooks inserted into the holes. It’s inexpensive and widely available. However there are several practical differences worth understanding before choosing between pegboard and a slatwall system:
- Weight capacity — pegboard hooks rely on a friction fit in a hole and have no locking mechanism. StoreWALL’s CamLok locks the accessory into the groove — a hook won’t shift or fall even under heavy load or vibration.
- Accessory range — standard pegboard accepts standard pegboard hooks only. StoreWALL’s 200+ accessory range includes items purpose-designed for specific uses (rotating bike hooks, kayak cradles, power tool racks) that don’t exist in pegboard formats.
- Coverage — pegboard sheets are typically 1200mm × 900mm and show joins clearly. StoreWALL 2438mm panels minimise joins and create a finished wall surface.
- Durability — hardboard pegboard absorbs moisture and can deteriorate in garage conditions. PVC slatwall is waterproof and mould resistant indefinitely.
- Cost comparison — pegboard has a lower entry cost but limited accessory options. For a serious garage fit-out, the total cost over time including accessories is often comparable.
Weight Ratings — Why This Matters
Weight ratings are where budget systems often disappoint. If you’re storing garden equipment, power tools, heavy bins, or bikes, you need a system rated for real loads.
- StoreWALL Standard Duty panels are rated to 56kg per 1219mm panel — Heavy Duty panels to 148kg per panel. A single panel can hold a loaded bike hook, a set of power tools and a wire shelf simultaneously.
- StorEase states its panels support up to 150kg per rail — however the rail system design means load is concentrated at individual hook attachment points rather than distributed across a full panel surface.
- Ryobi Link modules are rated to 94kg per module.
- GarageSmart ratings vary by product and installation type — their installers advise based on your specific wall and load requirements.
Accessory Range — The Hidden Long-Term Cost
The initial panel purchase is rarely the total cost. Accessories often cost as much or more than the panels over time. A system with a limited accessory range forces you to work around what’s available rather than build exactly what you need.
StoreWALL’s 200+ accessory range includes bike hooks in multiple configurations, power tool racks, deep wire shelves, floating metal shelves, bins of multiple sizes, baskets, kayak and surfboard brackets, golf organisers, magnetic bars and power strip brackets. Everything is priced and available online.
StorEase covers basic hooks, a small number of shelf options and bins. If your storage needs go beyond standard hooks and shelves you’ll quickly hit the limits of the system.
GarageSmart’s range is also extensive. Pricing and the full range are available via direct contact with the company.
Ryobi Link is growing but remains focused on Ryobi tools. Works well for Ryobi owners specifically.
Installation
All four systems can be installed as DIY on standard plasterboard walls. GarageSmart primarily positions as an installed solution — assessment, design and installation are part of the service, which adds convenience but also cost compared to self-installation.
StoreWALL, StorEase and Ryobi Link are all designed for direct consumer installation. StoreWALL provides detailed installation guides and a network of recommended installers for those who prefer professional help.
Availability
StorEase and Ryobi Link have the widest physical availability — both are in most Bunnings stores nationally, so you can see and touch them before buying. StoreWALL is sold direct online with shipping Australia-wide. The trade-off is that you can’t inspect it in a store, but the panel sample option for $10.99 postage addresses this — Brite White and Weathered Grey samples posted to your door before you commit to a full order.
Which System Is Right for Your Situation?
Budget is the primary consideration
StorEase from Bunnings is the lowest entry cost. It serves basic hook and shelf storage adequately. Be aware you’ll likely outgrow the accessory range if your needs are more than basic.
You want the widest accessory range and highest weight ratings
StoreWALL and GarageSmart are the clear choice. The upfront cost is higher but the system grows with you. StoreWALL’s CamLok keeps accessories locked under load — something other systems don’t offer.
You don’t want to DIY
GarageSmart offers a full design and installation service that removes the planning and installation burden. You may pay a premium for this but the result is a professionally designed garage.
You have a lot of Ryobi tools
Ryobi Link integrates neatly with the Ryobi tool ecosystem and the accessories are designed to display and store Ryobi products. For mixed garage storage it’s more limited.
You’re considering pegboard
Pegboard is a lower cost entry point. For light storage of small hand tools it works adequately. For heavier loads, bikes, boards or a serious garage fit-out, a slatwall system with proper locking accessories will perform significantly better over time.
You already have Gladiator GearWall panels
Gladiator has exited the Australian market — new panels are no longer available. Replacement hooks can be purchased. If you’re expanding the system, StoreWALL accessories are compatible with many standard slatwall profiles — call Arthur on 0411 280 646 to confirm compatibility with your specific panels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use StoreWALL accessories on StorEase tracks?
Yes on the Smart Wall Panel (aluminium panel). No on the Smart Wall Rail (black Slimline rail) — the groove profile is different and accessories won’t lock correctly.
Can I use Ryobi Link accessories on slatwall panels?
No. Ryobi Link uses a proprietary mounting system that is not compatible with standard slatwall channels including StoreWALL.
Is StoreWALL available at Bunnings?
No. StoreWALL is sold exclusively through storewall.com.au. Bunnings sells StorEase, which is a different system.
Is slatwall better than pegboard for a garage?
For most Australian garages, yes — particularly if you’re storing anything heavier than light hand tools. Slatwall offers locking accessories, higher weight ratings, a much wider accessory range, and is fully waterproof. Pegboard hooks rely on friction and can shift or fall. For a serious garage fit-out the difference in usability over time is significant.
What happened to Gladiator Garageworks in Australia?
Gladiator Garageworks exited the Australian market. New panels are no longer available. Hooks can still be purchased through the Gladiator Australia website.
How do I know how many StoreWALL panels I need?
Use the wall panel estimator to calculate quantities for your wall dimensions, or call Arthur on 0411 280 646 for a free materials list.
The Bottom Line
For most Australian homeowners planning a serious garage fit-out, the choice comes down to StorEase if budget is tight and needs are basic, or StoreWALL if you want a system that handles real loads, offers genuine flexibility and grows with you over time. GarageSmart suits those who want professional installation without the DIY burden. Ryobi Link suits Ryobi tool owners specifically. Pegboard suits light, basic tool storage on a minimal budget.
Take the time to list what you actually need to store before deciding — the right system for someone with bikes, boards and heavy gear is different from the right system for someone storing lightweight garden tools. If you’re unsure, order a panel sample for $10.99 postage or call Arthur on 0411 280 646 — we’ll help you work out what you actually need before you spend anything.