:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-couches-test-jan-23-burrow-nomad-collection-block-sofa-andrea-lavinthal-04-c23e105bdabd4901993102776b42c06b.jpg)
The Spruce
Couches are statement-making furniture, but even the most stylish models are workhorses when it comes to everyday comfort. And as I’ve learned firsthand after owning couches that include budget-friendly, apartment-sized loveseats and large, deep-seated sofas that comfort is critical.
After lounging on my fair share of sofas, including testing more than 30 couches with my team here at The Spruce, the best couches share one key quality: Comfortable, durable cushions that offer support for everyone who plops down on them.
In order to find the best couches that maintain their comfort for years of sitting and lounging, you do need to be prepared to invest. I’ve found that while budget options can be found for under $1,000, they often don’t last longer than five years. However, if you invest in a well-built couch, trust us: It’ll be worth it.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall
Burrow Block Nomad Sofa
Firm, sturdy foam-filled cushions
Highly durable upholstery fabric
Durable frame can survive weight and wear
Handy extras like USB charging
Not the most comfortable for laying down
At first glance, Burrow’s Block Nomad Sofa may look more stylish and sophisticated than durable, but when we put this couch through its paces, it blew us away. Its mid-century modern inspired styling makes it stylish, but the smartly compact design, supportive cushions, and durable frame deliver for years to come.
We put this couch in a home with two adults and two very active toddlers, and we were thrilled to find it looked brand-new even after a year. It survived kids jumping on its cushions and climbing its frame, and it maintained its “bounce” (a sign of nicely firm, resilient foam.)
We were impressed by the performance fabric, too, which handled spills and dirt so well we genuinely don’t think stains will stick to it.
However, it’s not the most inviting couch if you’re hoping to lay down and snuggle up to watch your favorite TV show. During testing, we found it’s best used as a “sitting” couch; we loved using it, but it simply wasn’t the best place in the house to nap (we prefer a super-soft, sink-in kind of cushion for that.)
That being said, we still adore its style and think it makes a standout addition to any living room. If you, like us, prefer your couch to be functional and not necessarily sleep-worthy, Burrow’s Block Nomad is a perfect fit.
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
Credit: The Spruce Credit: The Spruce Credit: The Spruce Credit: The Spruce The Burrow Block Nomad Sofa comes in a huge array of upholstery options (we went for neutral gray). Credit: The Spruce
Best Budget
IKEA Uppland Sofa
Springy, resilient cushions
Removable, washable cover
Comfortable in all positions
Polyurethane foam cushions aren’t as long-lasting as others on our list
Don’t let the affordable price of this couch convince you it’s not amazing—we were wowed by its comfort and its easy-to-clean nature when we put it to the test. While IKEA’s Upland Sofa may be simple in its styling, it doesn’t skimp on comfort. We napped, relaxed, and watched plenty of TV on this couch for over a year, and it’s one of the best couches no matter your budget.
We particularly liked the springy, resilient cushions, which were comfortable for adults and kids alike. There was very little break-in required. Best of all, the couch was roomy enough for even adults to lay down (with a baby, in our case.)
We also loved the slipcover on this couch, which made cleaning a breeze. We could remove the cover and either spot-clean it or toss it in the washing machine. It also made it easy to change up our couch’s appearance, too.
The only detail we weren’t huge fans of is the cushion fill material, which is polyurethane foam. It's less durable than other types of foam. But, since this couch is priced at under $1,000, we don’t think this is a dealbreaker (and the included 10-year warranty adds peace of mind.)
Length: 88.25 inches (5 sizes available) | Weight: Not listed | Capacity: 4 people | Frame Material: Particleboard, plywood, solid wood | Seat Fill: Polyurethane foam and polyester fibers | Upholstery Options: 13
Credit: The Spruce Credit: The Spruce Credit: The Spruce
Most Comfortable
West Elm Harmony Modular Sleeper Sectional
Sink-in soft and plush back and seat cushions
Stain-resistant performance fabric
Resilient frame and cushion fill
Sturdy, smooth-gliding mattress frame
Cushions are too big and overstuffed at first
With thick cushions that offer just the right amount of give, deep seats, and cloud-like comfort, West Elm’s Harmony Sectional is one incredibly comfortable couch. We found it so wonderfully welcoming for sitting, laying, and even sleeping that it’s the most comfortable we’ve ever tested.
Featuring cushions that are soft yet bounce back to offer some support, a pull-out mattress for overnight guests, and a whole host of pillows for your seat, back, and sides, we found comfort at every angle on this couch. It’s malleable, too, allowing you to fluff, adjust, and mold the different components to your liking.
At first, this ultra-plush and inviting couch was too fluffy for our liking. Its cushions and pillows were so overstuffed that we felt they overwhelmed the couch (and we’re saying that as people who like a lot of pillows!) However, after an initial break-in period, the fluff calmed down, flattened out a bit, and achieved just the right balance of plush.
Ultimately, this couch continued to impress us over the course of a year of testing, we found it survived everything (including pen marks, drink spills, and pets’ dirty paws and claws) and still came out looking like new.
Length: 123 inches (Various sizes and configurations available) | Weight: 385 pounds | Capacity: 4 people | Frame Material: Engineered hardwood | Seat Fill: Polyurethane, polyester, duck feather, duck down | Upholstery Options: 134
Credit: The Spruce Credit: The Spruce Credit: The Spruce Credit: The Spruce Credit: The Spruce
Best Sleeper
Crate & Barrel Oceanside Leather Queen Sleeper Sofa
High-quality leather stands up to daily life
Deep, supportive seat cushions
Comfortable memory foam mattress included
Excellent white-glove delivery service
Noticeable gaps in cushions
Back is low for tall individuals
Sleeper sofas can be hit or miss. Even if the couch itself is comfortable to relax on, the mattress tucked inside can be thin and unpleasant—but when we put the Crate & Barrel Oceanside Sofa to the test, we found it impressive on every front.
This leather couch wowed us with its high-quality surface, which continued to look like new over the course of a year (and that’s with pets in the mix!) and provided us with deep, supportively firm cushions. We loved the wide, low armrests, which provided the perfect place to perch and lean. And we were impressed with the overall construction of the metal mattress mechanism, frame, and cushions.
At home with our testers (one of whom stands over 6 feet tall) and their 50-pound dog, this sleeper sofa proved comfortable and easy to convert into a bed. We were impressed by the smooth-gliding pull-out mechanism, and we love the included supportive memory foam mattress. It offered enough comfort for adults to sleep soundly, without aches or pains come morning.
We did notice that gaps appeared in between the couch’s cushions when no one sat on it. However, the fit of the cushions on the larger couch frame did make them easy to remove, flip, or adjust. We also found the back of the couch low for taller adults; it may not be as comfortable for sitting if you’re someone who’s around 6 feet in height. That being said, it should be perfectly comfy for average-height users.
Length: 89 inches (Various sizes and configurations available) | Weight: Not listed | Capacity: 3 people | Frame Material: Kiln-dried wood | Seat Fill: Plant-based polyfoam, fibers, and feather-down blend | Upholstery Options: 42
Credit: The Spruce Credit: The Spruce Credit: The Spruce Credit: The Spruce Credit: The Spruce
Best Deep-Seated
Sixpenny Devyn Sectional
Huge, extra-deep seats
Body-conforming softness with a sink-in feel
High-quality, easy-clean upholstery
Seat cushions can slip and move
So deep shorter individuals may have trouble getting up
We love a deep-seated couch, so it’s really no surprise that the wonderfully deep width of Sixpenny’s Devyn L Shape Sectional made it one of the best couches after our testing. With huge seat cushions, it’s a great place for four or more to relax—and we loved the high-quality upholstery, which handled stains and wear in a household with spill-prone kids.
When this sectional first arrived, we immediately noticed how huge it is in person. Keep in mind you can customize your configuration; but thanks to the extra deep seats on this couch, it’s going to be very deep, with seats adults can easily lay down and sleep on. The cushions feature a body-conforming feel, cradling you whether you’re sitting upright, leaning back, or laying flat.
Since Sixpenny’s Devyn Sectional comes with a mix of foam and loose fill that mimics a down or feather feel, the pillows and back cushions will require some fluffing over time. Additionally, we found that the seat cushions are prone to movement. As you sit, stand, or wiggle around on them, they can start to slide out from underneath you.
That being said, if you’re searching for a sumptuous couch, this Sixpenny model delivers. While shorter individuals may find it so deep they may struggle to get up, we don’t want to get off of it after experiencing its cozy nature!
Length: 145 inches (Various sizes and configurations available) | Weight: 394 pounds | Capacity: 5 people | Frame Material: Kiln-dried hardwood, plywood | Seat Fill: Father down or poly fiber fill | Upholstery Options: 38
Credit: The Spruce The Sixpenny Devyn Sectional is large but has a low back that made it easier for delivery. Credit: Better Homes & Gardens We found the couch comfortable for lounging, though the deep cushions might make it harder for some people to get up. Credit: Better Homes & Gardens The removable slipcovers can be tossed in the wash, though we found that stains came up with just a damp washcloth. Credit: Better Homes & Gardens Credit: The Spruce
Best for Kids and Pets
Room & Board Metro Sofa
Supportive cushions with a cloud-like touch
Handled multiple pets and kids with no signs of wear
Cushions still look new after a year
May run too firm and bouncy for some
Kids and pets can really put a couch through its paces. After testing dozens of options that claim to be kid- and pet-proof, we found Room & Board’s Metro 2-Cushion Sofa is the best couch if you need serious durability. This is the most durable couch we’ve ever sat on—it still looked brand-new even after a year of use.
In fact, our tester fell so in love with this couch that they bought the matching loveseat. But before you start thinking about matching pieces, it’s important to note that we also like its comfort. We love the supportive, responsive cushion fill. The cushions felt soft and inviting, like a firm cloud.
Whether you’re laying or lounging on this couch, you don’t need to worry about spills, sticky or crumb-covered fingers, or even pets’ claws. Over the course of our testing period, this couch handled everything effortlessly. Even after nights spent with red wine, mornings with coffee spills, and even a couple of cat accidents, the fabric didn’t stain.
If you’re searching for a softer, less firm feel in your living room seating, this couch will likely run too firm for your preferences. But that’s really the only drawback we discovered. Otherwise, this stain-free, pet-friendly, and kid-proof couch continues to impress us with its durability.
Length: 88 inches (Various sizes and configurations available) | Weight: 155 pounds | Capacity: 3 people | Frame Material: Benchmade hardwood | Seat Fill: High-resiliency CertiPUR-US certified foam, fiber, feather, and down | Upholstery Options: 219
Credit: The Spruce Credit: The Spruce
Other Couches We’ve Tested and Love
If you’re looking for something different, good news: We’ve tried more than 35 couches over the last three years, and we’ve found options to suit every taste, style, and space. Whether you’re looking for a cushy leather sofa with sink-soft cushions or a slipcovered option that’s a breeze to clean (or made for mess-prone households), we also recommend these couches as some of the best.
We love how well this couch's upholstery and cushions have held up to daily wear and tear over a year of testing.
One of the best couches for lounging and laying, we loved its soft cushions during our year of testing.
This slipcovered sofa is easy to clean and impressively durable, and we love how well it suits a home with kids and pets.
This is a perfect pick for anyone who’s searching for a little more style and personality (plus plush cushions to relax on!)
The durable frame and cushions made this one of the best couches in the face of wear and tear over daily use.
Soft, inviting, and eco-minded, we love the vegan down alternative cushion fill of this couch.
Final Verdict
The Burrow Block Nomad Sofa is our pick for the overall best couch. This stylish couch delivers on all fronts: It looks great in any room, provides lounge-worthy comfort, and is durable enough to last for years to come. If you’re looking for a couch that’s extra comfy, we also recommend West Elm’s Harmony Modular Sleeper Sectional, which is supremely comfortable and inviting.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/best-couches-4150654_final-50e4a0903029404a85cf7d2558640a4c-049f3b31a3f54a229198ba3e33f9273c.jpg)
The Spruce
How We Tested the Couches
Over the last three years, we've tested couches everywhere—in our own homes, in The Lab, and even at retail locations—to find the best couches. As a result, we’ve tested a mix of sleeper sofas, sectionals, modular models, and even stylish slipcovered options.
We use the couches daily, considering the quality, comfort, and durability of the couch, and we note any break-in period (which we’ve found is pretty typical regardless of cushion fill material.)
We also keep a close eye on wear and tear over the testing period, whether that’s treating stains or washing away mud from pets. We examine the upholstery overall, noting whether any obvious signs of wear develop over the course of one year.
The couches that made our list have stood the test of time, and they’re all products that have become favorites in our testers’ homes. Overall, the couches here are standouts in their comfort, configurations, sturdy frames, and upholstery materials.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Screenshot2023-05-08at4.14.49PM-554ed5c75c1a48d89d6c2cd5850dade7.png)
The Spruce
When Shopping for a Couch, Look For
A Frame and Cushions That Are Built to Last
If you’re searching for a couch that’ll last a lifetime, take a close look at what’s underneath the upholstery: the frame and the cushion fill.
The most durable couch frames are solid hardwood, which is tough and least likely to bow under weight. Kiln-dried hardwood frames are even more durable, but they do tend to cost more. That’s because kiln-drying is a specialized process that makes wood less likely to warp, shrink, or expand.
Other common couch frame materials include:
- Particleboard, which should be avoided because it’s prone to warping and breakage
- Plastic, which also breaks and cracks easily
- Pine, an affordable wood option, though it’s less durable than hardwoods
- Metal, which is strong like hardwood but more affordable
A Tip From Our Team
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.
Next, you’ll want to consider cushion fill. While cushions are replaceable (and I highly recommend replacing yours at around the five-year mark), the material you choose directly impacts their lifespan. Harder, firmer cushion fill tends to last longer, breaking down more slowly, while softer fill materials can flatten out faster.
Here’s a look at the most popular cushion fill materials:
- High-resilience foam, which is expensive but the most durable fill material
- Polyurethane foam, which is affordable and decently durable, but less dense than high-resilience foam
- Polyester fiber, another affordable choice that’s similar to down alternative fibers and offers a lofty, pillow-like feel
- Goose-down fill, which is incredibly comfortable but very expensive and high-maintenance
But the fill material also affects how your couch feels and its overall comfort for sitting, laying, and lounging. And that’s ultimately a personal preference.
In our experience, no matter the fill material you choose, you should expect a break-in period when your couch arrives. All fill materials will feel a little stiff initially, but the more you use your couch, the more it’ll soften, flex, and take form to offer more comfort. If your cushions are too soft or sagging after a few years, that’s a good sign it’s time to replace them.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-west-elm-harmony-sleeper-sofa-elena-garcia-3-41b03e48520e4c6e94dc5197a5db89bb.jpeg)
The Spruce
Durable Upholstery Fabrics
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. You can shop for kid- and pet-friendly, indoor/outdoor, durable, and stain-resistant upholstery.
Personally, I recommend looking for performance fabrics, which tend to be the most durable. These materials are specially created to withstand more significant wear and tear, and they’re often labeled as “family-friendly,” “kid-friendly,” or “pet-friendly,” depending on their exact makeup.
Another option that can handle wear and tear is a slipcovered couch, which has removable couch 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 easily and can shrink (if used for a cushion slipcover)
- 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
Your Favorite Style
One of the most challenging parts of buying a couch can be finding a style you like. Hundreds of styles are available today, but here's a rundown of the most popular styles you may want to consider.
- Mid-century: features clean lines, tapered legs, and a low profile, like the Burrow Block Nomad Sofa
- Chesterfield: features rolled arms, tufted cushions, and is 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.
Can't Settle on a Couch Style?
If you’re eyeing a few different couch styles, we’ve got a handy guide to the most common types, plus tips on the best options for different needs.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-crate-and-barrel-oceanside-leather-sleeper-sofa-anna-knief-09-e388a8c685fd48d28ff7a62f2e73fc9e.jpeg)
The Spruce
Delivery and Assembly Matter, Too
Once you’ve chosen your couch, 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.
If you want to skip the heavy lifting (literally), white-glove delivery is a premium service that most furniture retailers offer. Choose white-glove delivery, and a crew will bring the item into your room of choice, unpack and assemble it, and remove any extra packing materials afterward. It’s convenient, but it’s also often expensive.
Wondering if it’s worth assembling your own couch? It really depends, as the amount of assembly will vary from product to product. For example, the Burrow Block Nomad Sofa (our overall best couch), requires assembly, but we found the process quick, easy to follow, and uncomplicated.
One More Thing
You may have noticed that we listed the number of sizes and configurations available for each of our favorite couches. Almost all of the couches in this list are available in more than one size and in some cases, like the West Elm Harmony Modular Sleeper Sectional, multiple (and even custom) configurations.
When shopping, double-check if a retailer offers a couch design in multiple widths, especially if it's a design you really love. Sometimes online retailers will allow you to filter couches by the width or couch collection, and this is a great way to confirm what's available for your space before eliminating options.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Heather Adams is a senior editor at The Spruce who’s owned a surprisingly high number of couches over the last 10 years, thanks to some less-than-smart sofa investments. Now, after testing couches and shopping for comfier ones both in-person and online, she’s an expert in the upholstery fabrics, frame types, and cushion fills that make the best couches so comfy. In putting together this list, she used testing insights from The Spruce’s at-home couch testing which evaluated each couch for quality, comfort, and durability, along with her own knowledge of different furniture retailers, sofa construction, and materials.