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The 10 Best Couches of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

After 2 years of testing, these are our top picks

The PB Turner Square Arm Leather Sofa displayed against a living room wall

The Spruce / Abby Mercer

Couches are both a focal point of your living space and a place of respite, and searching for one that is functional, comfortable, and stylish is no easy feat. They’re one of the most important investments you can make in your home, so to make your decision easier, we tested over 25 couches in a variety of environments including The Lab and our own homes. We even took a trip to some of our top couch retailers to see what the shopping experience was like IRL.

With almost two years of testing under our belts, we've gathered insights and evaluated loads of couches on comfort, durability, quality, and value. Our winners include sectionals, sofa beds, budget picks, and more.

Testing Stats
Products Tested  26
Hours Spent Testing  1,092+ 
Tests Performed 
Unique Testers  24
Our Top Picks

Best Overall Couch

Room & Board Metro

Room & Board Metro Sofa

Room & Board

Our Ratings
  • Comfort
    5/5
  • Ease of Use
    5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
  • Quality
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
What We Like
  • Highly customizable

  • Seamless delivery service

  • Exceptionally comfortable

  • Clean, refined, and casual design

What We Don’t Like
  • Limited patterned fabrics

Of all the sofas we tested, the Room & Board Metro Two-Cushion Sofa earned a perfect score in every category and seriously impressed us with its top-notch comfort level, classic look, and longevity. We’ve tested this couch in our homes for six months and it has proven its durability—standing up to consistent use in a household with multiple pets. This couch looks brand new, with no pilling, fading, or staining whatsoever. Even notoriously tough messes, like cat pee, were exceptionally easy to clean. 

We were also impressed by just how comfortable this couch felt, as the cushions were exceptionally plush while still providing enough support to lounge in for long periods. The cloud-like cushions are made with high-resiliency foam wrapped in fiber, feathers, and down. We loved the sofa’s sink-in comfort, which is perfect for sitting, lounging, and napping. Even after six months, the cushions still feel fluffy and comfortable.

No matter your decor style, this sofa’s casual yet streamlined design is sure to upgrade your space. Whether your home leans more rustic or retro, the sofa’s simplicity allows it to be dressed up or down to match your existing interior. What’s more, you can customize just about every aspect of this couch, including its seat depth, size, upholstery, and leg finish. And while you can choose from over 200 different fabric options, we opted for the charcoal twill, which felt thick and durable. 

Overall, we think that its price tag (ranging from $1,599 for a loveseat to $4,000 for larger sizes) is reflective of its high-quality hardwood frame construction and competitive for its highly customizable design. Plus, you don’t even have to worry about the hassle of assembly—it comes with a full-service delivery and setup for $119, which was seamless, efficient, and stress-free in our experience.

Length: 88 inches (7 sizes available) | Weight: 161 pounds | Capacity: 3 | Frame Material: Benchmade hardwood | Seat Fill: High-resiliency foam, fiber, feather, down | Upholstery Options: 219

How do you clean an upholstered couch?

Check the label of your upholstered couch: “W” means you can use a water-based cleaner, “S” designates a solvent-based cleaner is safe, “WS” means you can use either, and an “X” means it should be professionally cleaned. To clean with soap and water, combine a half teaspoon of clear dish soap with warm water and gently spread over the fabric without soaking, and then wipe it clean with a damp cloth. Check out some of our favorite upholstery cleaners below:

Best Budget Couch

IKEA Uppland Sofa

IKEA Uppland Sofa

IKEA

Our Ratings
  • Comfort
    5/5
  • Ease of Use
    5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
  • Quality
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
What We Like
  • Easy to clean

  • Surprisingly high-quality

  • Reversible cushions

What We Don’t Like
  • Assembly required

Ikea is known for its affordable home items that can sometimes be a hit or miss in terms of quality, but this couch is a winner because of its easy care, refined look, and comfort. After trying it out in our own homes, we were pleasantly surprised by the quality of the Uppland slip-covered couch. While it’s one of the retailer’s pricier pieces, it's still under $1,000, making it much more budget-friendly than many of our other picks. 

After using this couch every day for a month in a household of four, we pretty much have zero complaints. It was extremely comfortable for lounging and napping alike and was roomy enough to fit about four people. The cushions feel pleasantly springy and remain sturdy despite regular use from five people. Even with kids jumping on the sofa, it has remained in perfect condition and the cushions have shown no signs of shape loss. Plus, you can’t feel the framing when lying on it at all.

The fact that you can wash and change the slipcover only adds to its value. Opt for one of the neutral standbys (white or beige) for year-long use, or choose a bolder pop of color (turquoise or red) for spring and summer. We machine-washed the slipcover once during a month of use, and the process of unzipping it and putting it back on proved to be surprisingly easy (plus, the juice that we had spilled came out easily).

Overall, we love that this couch offers a high-end look and feel at a reasonable price point. The only con that we could come up with was that this couch doesn’t have any included storage or a pullout mattress, but it’s a great option for anyone on the hunt for a dependable, value-packed couch. As with most Ikea pieces, assembly is required. However, we found that the setup was straightforward and simple.

Length: 88.25 inches (5 sizes available) | Weight: Not listed | Capacity: 4 | Frame Material: Particleboard, plywood, solid wood | Seat Fill: Polyurethane foam and polyester fibers | Upholstery Options: 13

Best Sectional Couch

West Elm Harmony Modular Sleeper Sectional

West Elm Harmony Modular 2-Piece Sleeper Sectional With Storage Chaise

West Elm

Our Ratings
  • Comfort
    5/5
  • Ease of Use
    5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
  • Quality
    5/5
  • Value
    3.5/5
What We Like
  • Exceptionally comfortable

  • Integrated storage space

  • Highly durable

  • Casual and elegant look

What We Don’t Like
  • Some issues with white-glove delivery

  • Mattress could be more comfortable

This casual and sophisticated West Elm Harmony Modular Sectional couch makes an elegant addition to any living space. And not only is it stylish, but it also converts into a queen-sized bed in less than a minute. 

We’ve tested this couch in our homes for six months, and upon arrival, we were impressed with just how comfortable the sofa was. It boasts oversized cushions and big pillows which are exceptionally plush and provide that “sink-in” feeling that we love. When it first arrived, the cushions looked almost overstuffed and bubbly. But with time, the cushions wore perfectly, which gave the couch an effortlessly chic, lived-in look. However, we did notice a few feathers start to poke out of the cushions in time.

The mattress was comfortable enough—in fact, it was one of the more comfortable sleeper sofas we’ve tried. Despite being sturdy and relatively plush, we don’t love that you can still feel the fold-out frame underneath. However, we were pleased to find that the pull-out mechanism actually became smoother and easier to use in time.

You can choose from a wide variety of fabrics and colors, including velvet, boucle, and tweed. We chose the performance basketweave fabric which was exceptionally soft and felt lovely when lying on it. It has even softened quite a bit throughout the testing period, which we loved. Over time, this sectional sofa held up exceptionally well and was easy to clean even with lots of spills and stains.

While this product comes with white-glove delivery, we had a few issues with the assembly, which we then had to fix ourselves. This may not be a widespread issue, but it’s worth noting that our experience wasn’t exactly seamless. However, after the setup was all said and done, we were wowed by the overall construction quality, elegant look, and top-notch comfort of this couch.

Length: 123 inches (Various sizes and configurations available) | Weight: 385 pounds | Capacity: 4 | Frame Material: Engineered hardwood | Seat Fill: Polyurethane, polyester, duck feather, duck down | Upholstery Options: 134

Best Sleeper Couch

Joybird Briar Sleeper Sofa

Joybird Briar Sleeper Sofa

Joybird

Our Ratings
  • Comfort
    4/5
  • Ease of Use
    5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
  • Quality
    5/5
  • Value
    4/5
What We Like
  • Clean and stylish design

  • Wide selection of upholstery options

  • Fits queen-sized mattress

  • Durable construction

What We Don't Like
  • Couch cushions can be quite firm initially

For a comfortable sofa that doubles as a sleeping spot for out-of-town guests, you can’t go wrong with the Joybird Briar Sleeper Sofa. After six months of using this couch in our homes, we found it improved with time. While the couch cushions are quite firm initially, they became softer as we broke them in a bit more. The couch has gotten better and better with each day, but it’s important to note that it may not be the comfiest upon arrival. 

Additionally, we found the sofa held up exceptionally well over time, as it proved to be highly durable even in a household with pets. Any stains came out very easily and overall, the couch looks as good as new. Its functionality and convenience make it super practical for those who love to host—especially for anyone living in an apartment lacking a separate guest bedroom.

We love its clean and stylish silhouette, and you can choose from nearly 100 upholstery options, including pet-friendly and sustainable options. The sofa converts to a queen-sized bed easily and quickly, and during our real-world tests, the mattress proved to be extremely comfortable for overnight guests. When customizing this sleeper sofa, you can even upgrade the mattress to a Tempur-Response Memory Foam mattress.

If you want to see the couch in person, Joybird has some retail locations throughout the U.S. We ventured to the Manhattan store and were impressed with just how many couch styles and fabric options were on display.

Length: 79 inches (Various sizes and configurations available) | Weight: Not listed | Capacity: 4 | Frame Material: Engineered wood frame with solid wood spring rails | Seat Fill: Polyurethane foam, fiber | Upholstery Options: 80

Best Comfortable Couch

Albany Park Kova Pit

Albany Park Kova Pit Sofa

Albany Park

Our Ratings
  • Comfort
    4.5/5
  • Ease of Use
    4.5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
  • Quality
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
What We Like
  • Spacious and versatile design

  • Supportive yet plush cushions

  • Sturdy frame

What We Don’t Like
  • Pillows flatten with time

  • Assembly required

Considering the daily use of our sofas, we think splurging on a high-quality, comfortable, and stylish option is well worth the investment. The Albany Park Kova Pit is much larger than a traditional couch, and the modular sofa can be configured in many ways to suit your needs. 

During our tests, we were blown away by just how comfortable the couch felt, as the deep seats allowed for multiple people to sit back and stretch their legs. It felt like a separate bed for your living room and was exceptionally cozy to lay down on. 

Because the Kova Pit is modular, we love how versatile it is for any space. You can even create an oversized bed-like formation, which we especially love for slumber parties and movie nights. Alternatively, you can opt to arrange the pieces as a sectional or even just a standard couch.

After six months of regular use from humans and pets alike, we found that the back cushions deflated a bit over time and now require more regular fluffing. However, this affected the appearance of the couch more than the comfort level, as the cushions still feel fluffy and haven’t started to lump.

The couch is made with a furniture-grade plywood frame, and we were impressed with the overall construction quality. Plus, the removable cushion covers are very easy to wash and proved to be highly durable. The upholstery has also stood up relatively well to dog scratches, which were barely visible and aren’t noticeable unless you’re looking for it.

Note that you will have to assemble this product yourself, which may take a long time due to how large the sofa is. However, the actual setup process proved to be intuitive and simple—you may just need an extra set of hands to help you out. 

Overall, we highly recommend this product to anyone willing to spend a little more on their living room furniture, as the Kova Pit is stylish, functional, high-quality, and exceptionally comfortable.

Length: 122 inches (Various sizes and configurations available) | Weight: 466 pounds | Capacity: 4 | Frame Material: Furniture-grade engineered plywood | Seat Fill: Feather-fiber blend | Upholstery Options: 14

Best Leather Couch

Pottery Barn Leather Sofa

Pottery Barn Turner Square Arm Leather Sofa

Pottery Barn

Our Ratings
  • Comfort
    4.5/5
  • Ease of Use
    5/5
  • Durability
    4.5/5
  • Quality
    4.8/5
  • Value
    4.5/5
What We Like
  • Timeless look

  • Soft, high-quality leather

  • Convenient delivery

What We Don’t Like
  • Leather is more difficult to maintain

When it comes to leather couches, quality is key—nothing compares to a rich leather that you know will get even better with time. Pottery Barn’s Turner sofa is one such option, with a high-end look and feel that wowed us during testing. We like that it’s made from high-quality materials, including top-grain leather and kiln-dried hardwood. The Turner Sofa really stood out to us in terms of aesthetics and construction quality after testing it in our homes for a month. 

In terms of feel, this sofa is on the firmer side; both the bottom cushions and the armrests are quite hard, which could make lounging or lying down a struggle. However, the back cushions, which are composed of foam wrapped in a down blend, are fluffy and inviting; we’d expect the bottom cushions to get softer with time, and you can always add pillows and throws to make the couch a bit more cozy. 

This firm sofa doesn’t necessarily provide plush, sink-in comfort that you might find in other options, like the Albany Park Kova Pit (our most comfortable couch). That being said, the Turner Sofa never felt uncomfortable and is a great pick for those who prefer more firm sofas that break in over time.

Our main complaint with this couch is how prone to scratching it is—even from normal wear, like from a metal fastening on jeans or from children playing with toys. However, we noticed that the more minor ones faded with time, and the deeper ones weren’t noticeable unless you looked closely. And when it comes to leather sofas, this sort of issue is practically par for the course. Otherwise, we think this couch will last for years to come with proper care.

Additionally, we appreciate that there are plenty of length and color options to choose from, so you can easily find the perfect couch for your space. Pottery Barn also gives you the customization choice between two- and three-seat cushions and the addition of nailhead trim.

Length: 93.5 inches (5 sizes available) | Weight: Not listed | Capacity: 3 | Frame Material: Engineered wood, kiln-dried hardwood | Seat Fill: Polyester foam wrapped in down blend | Upholstery Options: 51

How do you clean a leather couch?

For regular cleaning, you can vacuum loose dirt and crumbs and wipe the leather down with a damp cloth and mild hand soap (test in a small area first). Then buff it with a dry cloth—no need to rinse the soap, it acts as a conditioner to the leather. Use talcum powder or cornstarch to get out grease stains and allow it to sit for 15 minutes before brushing away with a soft-bristle brush. For more specific spot-cleaning techniques, check out our guide to cleaning leather furniture.

Best Modular Couch

Burrow Block Nomad Sofa

Burrow Block Nomad Sofa

Burrow

Our Ratings
  • Comfort
    4/5
  • Durability
    4/5
  • Quality
    4/5
  • Value
    5/5
  • Size
    5/5
What We Like
  • Stain-resistant upholstery

  • Built-in USB charger

  • Easy to assemble

What We Don't Like
  • Limited upholstery colors

  • Cushions are on the firmer side

If you’re looking for a well-made sofa that you can easily customize to fit your home, the Burrow Nomad Sofa is the way to go. This sofa has a sturdy birch frame and triple-layer foam and fiber cushions that deliver a plush yet supportive feel. 

During our home tests, we found that while the cushions weren’t so soft that you could sink into them, they were still comfortable enough to sit and lounge on for long periods. However, over the span of a year, they look and feel a bit more comfortable and lived in. We still think this couch is more suited toward sitting and hanging out rather than snuggling and napping, so we wouldn’t necessarily recommend it for family rooms or basements. That being said, it would be a great pick for home offices or playrooms.

It comes in five different stain-resistant upholstery colors, and you can personalize a variety of other features, including the leg finish, arm shape, and cushion style. We opted for the Crushed Gravel fabric upholstery, which has held up nicely in time, with no signs of wear.

You can also add on a moveable chaise, matching ottoman, or lumbar pillows to complete the setup. And thanks to its modular design, you can expand or shorten the sofa if needed. We also love that it has a USB charger integrated into one of the arms, which became one of our favorite added features of the sofa.

Burrow makes its furniture in America, and the brand uses sustainably sourced wood and fabric from upcycled materials. It ships to your door in compact, easy-to-lift boxes, though you must assemble the sofa yourself. However, the good news is that it doesn’t require any tools thanks to the brand’s unique latching system. (It also comes apart just as easily in case you need to move it somewhere else.) The assembly process took under 30 minutes and proved to be very straightforward and intuitive, which we appreciated.

Length: 85 inches (Various sizes and configurations available) | Weight: Not listed | Capacity: 3 people | Frame Material: Not listed | Seat Fill: Foam and fiber | Upholstery Options: 5

Best Slipcovered Couch

Pottery Barn Cameron Roll Arm Slipcovered Sleeper Sofa

Pottery Barn Cameron Roll Arm Slipcovered Sleeper Sofa

Pottery Barn

Our Ratings
  • Comfort
    5/5
  • Ease of Use
    5/5
  • Durability
    4/5
  • Quality
    4/5
  • Value
    4/5
What We Like
  • Easy to clean

  • Fits queen-sized mattress

  • Classic, sleek design

What We Don't Like
  • Arm cushioning is quite thin

  • May require regular fluffing

If you love the convenience and casual look of slip-covered couches, the Pottery Barn Cameron Roll Arm Slipcovered Sleeper Sofa is both stylish and comfortable. Despite its relatively compact size, it easily converts to a queen-sized bed whenever you need it. 

During our at-home tests, we found that the sofa held up very well in a household of four. The cushions held up relatively well after a year, though we did find that they need to be fluffed consistently to keep them looking tidy. The overall construction of the sofa is sound, but we wish there were more padding in the rolled arms. The couch cushions provide a great balance between comfort and support, making it suitable for everyday use.

When converted into a bed, we were impressed by how comfortable and supportive the memory foam mattress felt, and we think it’s a great option if you have frequent overnight guests. Plus, the pull-out mechanism is smooth and easy to use.

The sofa is also highly customizable, as you can choose from an extensive selection of upholstery, including chenille, velvet, and twill. Its simple and sleek silhouette makes this a timeless and design-forward addition to any space.

Ideal for households with children and pets, the slipcover material held up to spills, accidents, and daily wear and tear. Taking off and putting on the slipcover was seamless, and cleaning it couldn’t be easier—for many material options, you can simply throw it in the washer and dryer. We found this sofa is worth it for those in a busy household who want a durable sofa that can hold up to frequent stains.

Length: 88 inches (Various sizes and configurations available) | Weight: Not listed | Capacity: 3 | Frame Material: Not listed | Seat Fill: Polyester-wrapped foam | Upholstery Options: 133

Pottery Barn Cameron Roll Arm Slipcovered Sleeper Sofa displayed in a home with two pillows and two side tables

The Spruce / Dwyer Frame

Best Couch Design

Maiden Home The Varick

Maiden Home The Varick

Maiden Home

Our Ratings
  • Comfort
    4.5/5
  • Ease of Use
    5/5
  • Durability
    4.5/5
  • Quality
    4.5/5
  • Value
    4/5
What We Like
  • High-quality construction

  • Modern design

  • Returns allowed even for custom pieces

What We Don’t Like
  • Too stiff for some

  • Not the most inviting

With its low-slung profile and sleek lines, The Varick sofa from Maiden Home has a midcentury modern-inspired appeal that is sure to make a statement in your home. While we didn’t find it to be the coziest or most family-friendly option (more on that below), this sofa proved to be a standout pick when it came to design.

In terms of comfort, The Varick is on the firmer side—it’s not quite as soft or supportive as some of the other options on this list, making it better suited for sitting than napping or lounging. That being said, we’ve only been testing this couch for a month, so we expect it to break in a bit more with time. 

We tested this couch in the same household as the Crate & Barrel Lounge Couch (our best couch for families)—a single-family home with a toddler and two cats. We opted to try The Varick in a performance velvet, which added a high-end feel to the sofa but also showed wear very easily. However, these marks are easy to remove with a simple smooth down or vacuum and are more so reflective of the material than the quality of the couch itself. Plus, it has held up to spills and messes quite well, and we think its luxurious look makes the extra upkeep worth it. The Varick comes in 78 fabrics and material choices, including merino wool, performance linen, and three types of leather.

It was refreshingly simple to schedule the delivery of this couch, and, because it's one of the site’s ready-made options, it took just two weeks to ship. If you do opt for a custom item, Maiden Home also offers 30-day returns—unheard of among high-end furniture retailers—and complimentary interior design services and product consultations.

Length: 75 inches (10 sizes available) | Weight: Not listed | Capacity: 4 | Frame Material: Kiln-dried hardwood | Seat Fill: High-resiliency foam, microfiber | Upholstery Options: 92

Best Couch for Families

Crate & Barrel Lounge Sofa

Crate & Barrel Deep Bench Sofa

Crate & Barrel

Our Ratings
  • Comfort
    5/5
  • Ease of Use
    5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
  • Quality
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
What We Like
  • Versatile design

  • Very spacious

  • Comfortable enough to sleep on 

What We Don’t Like
  • Overly firm armrests

  • Too large for an apartment

After using this couch daily for over two and a half years, we’ve found it to be a versatile option that’s equally suited for afternoon naps as it is for hosting guests. For one, it’s incredibly spacious, with deep seating and pliable yet bouncy cushions that provide comfort and support. It has held up well in time, with only slight flattening in the bottom cushions despite everyday use.

We opted for the 93-inch two-seater with a 46-inch depth, which is great for both entertaining and everyday use. Just note that because of both the couch’s length and depth, it’s better suited for a house than an apartment; even then, you might prefer to place it in a basement or den. 

You can also choose from over 200 upholstery options, many of which are performance fabrics so sticky fingers and muddy paws are no match against this design. Because of this, we’re confident that the Crate & Barrel Deep Bench Sofa can withstand common messes in households with children and pets alike. For this style of couch, Crate & Barrel offers two depths, four sizes, and five orientations to suit your family’s needs.

This was one of the couches that we tried out in-store, and many of our impressions reaffirmed our home tester’s—it was spacious enough for at least two people (and up to four people) to comfortably sit on, and also worked well for lying down.

Our main complaint was that the armrests were a bit too firm, which made lounging on the couch a bit uncomfortable. However, we like its classic appeal and think that would suit a variety of home styles. Plus, you can easily dress it up with pillows and throws.

Length: 93 inches (8 sizes available) | Weight: Not listed | Capacity: 4 people | Frame Material: Not listed | Seat Fill: Soy-based polyfoam, fiber-down blend | Upholstery Options: 206

Final Verdict

If you're looking for a couch that's stylish, comfortable, and supportive, consider our best overall couch, the Room & Board Metro Two-Cushion Sofa. It has an effortlessly clean design that allows you to customize its fabric, legs, seat depth, and more. The Ikea Uppland Sofa, our best budget couch, is an easy-to-clean and high-quality option for anyone who wants a couch under $1,000.

A person reading a book on a sofa displayed in a home
The Spruce / Angelica Leich 

How We Tested the Couches

Throughout the last two years, we've conducted testing in various locations—our own homes, The Lab, and retail locations—to find the best couches on the market that are well-designed and, of course, comfortable. Our most recent rounds of testing have involved using the couches in our homes for over a month (and of course continuing to evaluate after the official testing period) to experience the shipping process and learn how the couch design wears over time.

We start our evaluation during purchasing and consider the ease of navigating each retailer's website, customizing the couch (if applicable), and reviewing any extra services such as free fabric swatches or measurement guides. We also make sure to record the original estimated shipping date and compare the delivery timelines. 

The actual delivery and assembly evaluation depends on what delivery options are offered by the manufacturer. If assembly is required, we time the unboxing and the time it takes for us to get the couch in its proper place. For couches that can be delivered through white glove services, we consider the coordination from the delivery driver, the steps they take to assemble the couch, and any other accommodations offered in the service like trash removal.

Once the couch is in its official place, the fun part begins with evaluating its ease of use. This attribute applies not only to functional features on the couch like pull-out mattresses, slipcover removal, and module arranging, but it also applies to the quality, comfort, and durability of the couch. We make sure to lie down on it as well as sit in various positions and with multiple people. We monitor any stains from children and pets and we even stain treat it or vacuum it when needed. 

As the official month-long testing period ends, we also consider how the upholstery and cushion fill have worn (if at all) over time. We note any couches that arrived very firm and become more comfortable with use. All of these testing steps are then considered together to give each couch a value rating. To bring you this list, we analyze all of the couch scores and insights, conduct supplemental research, and speak to design experts before making our final selections.

In addition to our home testing, we also visited a select number of couch retailers in person to judge the number of on-view options, the customer service, and the quality of the overall shopping experience. We will continue updating this roundup as more insights come in.

What to Look For in a Couch

Size and Shape

Before you start shopping, it’s important to measure the space where you want your couch to go. There’s nothing more frustrating than falling in love with a piece of furniture, only to discover it won’t fit in the room. The size of your space will also determine the shape, or type of sofa you can fit.

"Size really matters when it comes to buying a sofa, something too big or too small for your room can really affect the flow of your space," says Neuman. "It should fill the room nicely and feel inviting, but it should never feel like it's overwhelming your space. I like to always do the blue tape test. Buy yourself some blue painter's tape at any hardware store and tape out the dimensions of the sofa on the floor so you get a good idea of how it will feel in the space."

Before you start shopping, it’s important to measure the space where you want your couch to go. There’s nothing more frustrating than falling in love with a piece of furniture, only to discover it won’t fit in the room. The size of your space will also determine the shape, or type of sofa you can fit.

"Size really matters when it comes to buying a sofa, something too big or too small for your room can really affect the flow of your space," says Neuman. "It should fill the room nicely and feel inviting, but it should never feel like it's overwhelming your space. I like to always do the blue tape test. Buy yourself some blue painter's tape at any hardware store and tape out the dimensions of the sofa on the floor so you get a good idea of how it will feel in the space."

Also, be sure to measure the doorways and any stairs leading to the room. You’ll want to make sure there’s clearance to fit every piece of the couch into the room. 

If you’re especially pressed for space, you’ll want to consider purchasing sofas that are meant for small spaces, like the Joybird Briar Sleeper Sofa (best sleeper couch). Standard sofas, which are one straight line and typically between 72- and 90-inches long, like our best couch with wheels, the Coastal Living Kiawah Sofa. These can generally seat three or four people, and they come in a wide range of styles, materials, and price points. Similarly, you’ll find loveseats, which are essentially small couches, measuring 48- to 72-inches long. Loveseats can comfortably seat two people—hence their name—and are a great solution for smaller spaces. Some people like to have a matching sofa and loveseat for a cohesive look in their living room. 

Today, sectionals are an incredibly popular style of couch. These modular couches are made up of more than one piece, and they’re commonly L- or U-shaped. Sectionals like the West Elm Harmony Modular Sectional (best sectional couch) provide more seating, making them a good solution for large families or big rooms. 

Graphic display of five different couch styles

The Spruce  / Bailey Mariner

Construction Style

As stated in the What to Know Before You Get Started section, one of the first things you should consider when shopping for a new couch is the type of style that will fit best with your space and needs.

Standard Sofas

Best for:

  • Most spaces

Important considerations:

  • Standard sofas are very versatile, with a wide range of aesthetics, price points, and seat depths.
  • You can find a budget sofa for as little as $200 or opt for a custom option that may run $4,000 or more.

Sectionals

Best for:

  • Spacious rooms
  • Large families
  • Creating a defined living space

Important considerations:

  • When shopping for a sectional, make sure the various pieces can be firmly connected. Fabric strips typically aren’t strong enough to hold pieces of a sectional together and may tear over time, leading to awkward gaps between the sitting areas. 
  • L-shaped sections can be right-arm- or left-arm-facing, so make sure to figure out which side the arm needs to be on before you shop. U-shaped sectionals offer even more seating, and they’re a good option for large rooms. 
  • Sectionals are typically more expensive than standard sofas. Low-end sectionals start around $400 and range up into the thousands for oversized, luxurious models.

Loveseat

Best for:

  • Small spaces

Important considerations:

  • If you’re looking for a fancier loveseat, you may want to consider a settee, which features a high back and shallow seat—designed more for aesthetics than comfort. 
  • You can purchase loveseats individually, and they typically start at around $150. However, you'll also come across living room sets that include a matching sofa and loveseat.

Sleeper

Best for:

  • Households with frequent overnight guests

Important considerations:

  • Both sitting and sleeping comfort is key when choosing a sofa.
  • If possible, test how easy it is to pull out and pack up the mattress. 
  • You can find twin-sized sleeper sofas for around $400, while larger options are more expensive.

Recliner

Best for:

  • Those who value comfort

Important considerations:

  • Typically, reclining sofas just have one or two seats that can recline, and they’re either manual, meaning you have to pull a lever, or power reclining, meaning it uses electricity to adjust the seat. 
  • Power reclining sofas must be plugged into an outlet to work, so keep this in mind as you lay out your decor. 
  • Budget reclining sofas start at around $400, but a high-end model can cost well over $1,000. 

Futons

Best for:

  • Households with frequent overnight guests
  • Small spaces
  • Those on a budget

Important considerations:

  • Futons may be less comfortable than sleeper sofas for overnight guests, depending on the cushion material.
  • They tend to be smaller than standard sofas
  • You can find a small futon for as little as $50, and even high-end products won’t cost more than $400 or so.
A couch in a bedroom setting

The Spruce / Angelica Leich  

Design and Aesthetic

One of the most challenging parts of buying a couch can be finding a style you like. There are hundreds of styles available today, but here's a rundown of the most popular styles you may want to consider. 

  • Mid-century: features clean lines, simple legs, and a low profile
  • Chesterfield: features rolled arms, tufted back, and often made of leather
  • Lawson: features a boxy shape and detached cushions, and prioritizes comfort
  • Bridgewater (also called English roll arm): has low arms that lean outward and is very cushy
  • Tuxedo: features a boxy shape and its arms are the same height as its back
  • Contemporary: modern, unique, and often unconventional
  • Camelback: features a curved back with a “hump” in the middle, as well as high arms
  • Scandinavian: popularized by Ikea, has clean lines and is minimalistic
  • Settee: a specialty loveseat with a high back and shallow depth
  • Chaise: an asymmetrical design with just one arm

These are some of the most common couch and sofa styles, but there are many variations of each. As you shop, you’ll want to take note of which features you like and which styles will look best with your existing decor.

Close-up of the Burrow Block Nomad Sofa displayed in a home

The Spruce / Andrea Lavinthal

Frame and Cushion Materials

What your couch is made from will not only dictate its appearance, but its durability, ease of cleaning, and more. The first thing you’ll want to consider is the frame material, as a sturdy frame will ensure your sofa lasts for years. To test the frame of a sofa, lift one corner 6 inches off the ground—the other leg should lift, as well. If it doesn’t, the frame is likely too flexible and prone to warping or breaking. 

Common frame materials:

  • Particleboard and plastic should be avoided, as they can warp or break easily. 
  • Pine is a low-cost option for frames, but it won’t last as long as a hardwood such as oak, ash, or beech. 
  • Kiln-dried and engineered hardwood are strong and durable, but also tend to be more expensive and quite heavy.
  • Metal is similar in strength to hardwood, but more affordable. However, it is not as stylish as wood.

You’ll also want to consider the filling of a couch's cushions. The filling will determine how comfortable your couch is for lounging and sleeping. "Depending on how much you will be using it, its comfort is both important and subjective to each person," says Neuman. "Some clients love the loose fluffy feeling of down feathers on a sofa, while others prefer the structure of foam fill."

Common cushion materials:

  • High-resilience foam is perhaps the most comfortable and long-lasting option, but this can be quite expensive. 
  • Polyurethane foam is a popular option thanks to its low cost and ease of care, but you’ll want to make sure it’s a higher density; otherwise, it may deteriorate over time. 
  • Polyester fiber is another inexpensive option, but it flattens quickly, so only choose this option if you're looking for a short-term furniture solution. 
  • High-end goose-down fill is incredibly comfortable, but extremely expensive and can require a lot of maintenance.

In our experience, couch cushions can often feel stiff upon arrival, regardless of material. However, you shouldn’t be alarmed—couch cushions typically soften with time. Couches will generally run firmer than usual at first and achieve peak comfort with regular use. While the lifespan of your cushions will vary depending on frequency of use and cushion materials, there are ways you can repair or replace your couch cushions without having to replace the entire couch.

Upholstery Options

In addition to frame and cushion materials, you’ll need to consider the upholstery material and be sure to weigh both appearance and functionality. Your couch gets a lot of use—no matter what type of household it's in—so you’ll need a tough, durable fabric to ensure it lasts for years to come. Many of our favorite couches offer performance fabrics, including our best for families couch, the Crate & Barrel Deep Bench Sofa. You can shop for kid- and pet-friendly, indoor/outdoor, durable, and stain-resistant upholstery.

Another option that can handle the most wear and tear is a slipcovered couch, such as the Pottery Barn Cameron Roll Arm Slipcovered Sleeper Sofa (best slipcovered couch), which has removable covers that can be easily thrown in the washer and dryer for easy maintenance. Here are some of the most popular fabric options and their benefits:

  • Leather: durable and easy to clean, but expensive and can fade over time
  • Faux leather: durable and easy to clean, but not as long-lasting as real leather
  • Cotton: soft and somewhat durable, but stains and wrinkles easily
  • Linen: linen sofas are beautiful and upscale, but hard to care for and soil easily
  • Microfiber/polyester: soft, durable, easy to clean, and inexpensive
  • Chenille: soft and luxe, but hard to clean
  • Velvet: soft and stylish, but also trendy

Delivery and Assembly

For most of the couches on this list, you’ll be able to choose between standard and white-glove delivery. Depending on the retailer, standard delivery may come at a flat rate. You can expect your couch to be delivered to your doorstep, but it won’t be unpacked and you’ll have to carry it inside your home yourself. We recommend having an extra set of hands or two, especially if you plan on carrying your new couch up or down a set of stairs.

White-glove delivery is a premium service that’s largely hands-off, but comes at a higher price point. A delivery crew will bring the item into your room of choice and handle the unpacking and assembly process for you, and remove any extra packing materials afterward. 

However, there are also a number of options on this list that you have to assemble yourself, which can save you money but be a bit more time-consuming. The amount of assembly will vary from product to product, as some may be more labor-intensive than others. Our best modular couch, the Burrow Block Nomad Sofa, requires assembly but ships for free. We found the assembly process to be quick, easy-to-follow, and uncomplicated.

A cream/beige sofa displayed in a home with a wooden crate, lamp, and a lit shelf
 The Spruce / Angelica Leich 

Why Trust The Spruce?

This article was written by Bianca Pineda, a commerce writer specializing in bedding, bath, and home decor at The Spruce. To compile this list, she consulted at-home testing insights, assessed numerous customer reviews, and conducted supplemental research about the topic. She also tested multiple options on this list first-hand, visiting retailers like Crate & Barrel, Joybird, Burrow House, and Anthropologie. All of the products in this roundup met our quality standards during the research process and performed the best during our tests. Additionally, Pineda has worked on numerous related roundups, including best bean bag chairs, best sofas for small spaces, and best sleeper sofas.

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