The couch is more than just a piece of furniture; it’s the heart of your living room. It’s where you unwind after a long day, spend quality time with family, entertain guests, or even work remotely. Choosing the right couch is an investment in your comfort and lifestyle, so it’s essential to make an informed decision.
From expansive sectionals to cozy loveseats, versatile sleeper sofas, and elegant leather couches, the options can seem endless. Before you dive into the world of couch shopping, pinpoint the features that are most important to you.
According to Nancy Swanton, CEO of Abundant Home Design, “Your individual needs should guide your choices regarding cushion type, seat depth, and overall design.” She emphasizes considering how you’ll primarily use the couch – whether for relaxed lounging, hosting gatherings, or simply enhancing your room’s aesthetic.
Beyond style and features, selecting the right retailer is crucial. Factors like inventory availability and quality, customer service, and return policies are paramount. Couches represent a significant investment, ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, especially for customized pieces. Thorough research into Where To Buy A Couch can save you money and ensure satisfaction with your purchase.
Wayfair
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Screenshot2023-10-05at12.44.36PM-5ae05342bde4431d84a7bb2399f29b73.png)
What We Like:
- Speedy and complimentary shipping options
- User-friendly search filters for easy navigation
- Extensive selection of designs, including custom choices
What We Don’t Like:
- No returns accepted on open-box items
Wayfair boasts a vast collection of couches to suit diverse tastes. Whether you’re seeking a mid-century modern statement piece, a sleek contemporary sofa, a practical bench seat, or a spacious sectional, Wayfair offers styles for nearly every aesthetic and couch type. Our team tested the Etta Avenue Winnie Velvet Sofa and were impressed by its stylish look and lightweight construction. Its easy assembly and portability make it ideal for smaller living spaces.
Wayfair’s search filters are particularly helpful, allowing you to refine your search by upholstery material, seat firmness, reclining mechanism, and arm style, among other criteria.
Many couches on Wayfair qualify for free white-glove delivery, a significant advantage if you prefer professional setup. Alternatively, you can filter for couches that require no assembly at all.
For added peace of mind, Wayfair offers optional 3- or 5-year protection plans covering repairs for malfunctions or accidental damage. While shipping times can be longer for customized or made-to-order couches, this is typical across furniture retailers.
Return Policy: 30-day return window; excludes open-box items | Delivery Options: Free fast delivery, free white-glove delivery | Average Wait Time for Custom Orders: 5 to 6 weeks
Etta Avenue Winnie Velvet Sofa
Latitude Run Ilkeston Manual Recliner Sofa
Birch Lane Bircham Slipcovered Sectional
$4,999 at Wayfair View on Birchlane.com
Wade Logan Gonsalez Power Reclining Loveseat
West Elm
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/WestElmHamiltonSofa-a1c9491b4f1d4e0182c3f561b8c0d642.jpg)
Courtesy of West Elm
What We Like:
- Complimentary design consultation services
- Opportunity to view couches in person at local stores
- Specialization in mid-century modern designs
What We Don’t Like:
- Extended delivery timelines
- White-glove delivery incurs an extra charge
If you are drawn to the clean lines and timeless appeal of a mid-century modern sofa, West Elm is a prime destination. They excel in this iconic design style, offering highly customizable couches with a wide spectrum of colors and fabrics. Taking advantage of their free swatch service allows you to experience the texture and color firsthand before making a purchase.
While custom orders at West Elm may entail longer shipping times, spanning weeks or even months, they also maintain a selection of ready-to-ship couches. These quick-ship options come with a more flexible return policy and expedited delivery. The Harmony Modular 2-Piece Sectional is a notable quick-ship option, praised for its comfort that improves with use.
West Elm’s nationwide store presence provides the valuable option to see and test couches in person before buying. This tangible experience is a benefit often missing with online-only retailers. Their website also allows shopping by pre-designed room settings, offering inspiration if you’re unsure of your preferred couch style. Furthermore, West Elm provides free design services – in-person, in-store, or virtual – for personalized guidance.
This design assistance is invaluable if you seek expert advice on integrating a new couch into your existing décor or undertaking a complete style transformation.
Return Policy: 30-day return window; 7-day return window for quick ship items; excludes open-box or made-to-order items | Delivery Options: Standard shipping, next-day delivery, ship-to-store delivery | Average Wait Time for Custom Orders: 8 to 10 weeks
West Elm Harmony Modular Sleeper Sectional
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/West-Elm-Drake-Sofa-8482e269cac44422830daa5a00996a10.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/west-elm-haven-sofa-f49b81a7394a458b8a6073c92566e11b.jpg)
West Elm Bleecker Down-Filled Slipcover 2-Piece Chaise Sectional
Article
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/article-d9740a9eaa33428fa85cbde723b4782e.jpg)
Courtesy of Article
What We Like:
- Stylish, comfortable, and modern high-quality options
- Delivery within a two-week timeframe
- Free returns and exchanges within a 30-day window
What We Don’t Like:
- No custom-made options available
- Additional charge for assembly service
For enthusiasts of modern furniture design, Article is a must-explore retailer. Renowned for its chic and premium furniture, Article presents a curated selection of stylish, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing couches that cater to a broad spectrum of design preferences.
While Article doesn’t offer bespoke customization, they provide a variety of fabric and color choices. Assembly, if required, is typically straightforward and quick, often taking just five minutes or less. We’ve personally tested several Article couches, including the Nordby Sofa, and found the leg attachment process to be remarkably simple.
Article stands out with its swift shipping, aiming for delivery within two weeks, unlike some competitors. They also offer complimentary room design services, though not in a personalized, one-on-one format like West Elm. However, Article provides an innovative feature: a QR code that allows you to visualize your chosen couch in your own room, facilitating quick assessment of whether it complements your space.
Return Policy: 30-day return window; free exchanges | Delivery Options: Front-door delivery, in-room delivery, in-room delivery with assembly | Average Wait Time for Custom Orders: Not applicable
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/article-nordby-87-sofa-bed-2e077de6acb04259afd7db776acd4e5b.jpg)
Article Sven Tufted Leather Loveseat
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Article-Abisko-Sofa-31426d1c7d9743e2b4661b38509e0074.jpg)
Article Timber Leather Corner Sectional
Pottery Barn
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/PotteryBarnCameronRollArmSlipcoveredSleeperSofa-df8269be322c40ababf30367fa513e0e.jpg)
Pottery Barn
What We Like:
- High-quality, durable furniture designed to last
- Commitment to sustainable materials and Fair Trade practices
- Innovative in-room planner tool for visualizing furniture
What We Don’t Like:
- Higher price point compared to some other retailers
Pottery Barn consistently ranks high in furniture recommendations, including couches. Celebrated for its quality and longevity, Pottery Barn allows you to shop by specific styles, from classic coastal to rustic modern, ensuring you find a couch that complements your home’s décor. They also champion sustainability by incorporating eco-friendly materials and prioritizing Fair Trade-certified factories.
While Pottery Barn couches typically represent a greater financial investment, the price reflects superior materials and enduring construction. Similar to West Elm, Pottery Barn offers complimentary design services, both in-person and virtually, for expert guidance.
Pottery Barn also provides a helpful room planner tool. This feature enables you to input your room dimensions and preview how different couches will fit within your space. For instance, the Cameron Roll Arm sleeper sofa is a favored design, but using the room planner can help determine whether the 2- or 3-cushion version is best suited for your room size.
Return Policy: 30-day return window; 7-day return window for quick-ship items; excludes open-box or made-to-order items | Delivery Options: Standard shipping, next-day delivery, ship-to-store delivery | Average Wait Time for Custom Orders: 8 to 10 weeks
Pottery Barn Cameron Roll Arm Slipcovered Sleeper Sofa
Pottery Barn Buchanan Roll Arm Slipcovered Sofa
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/pottery-barn-leather-sofa-4d419c8aece84e3db7f7409444b4f62a.jpg)
Pottery Barn Ultra Lounge Roll Arm Upholstered Reclining Sofa
Burrow
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Burrow-Living-Room-Set-e34e6f31574b4f3198eadffb8fbbd90f.jpg)
Burrow
What We Like:
- Innovative modular designs for adaptable couch configurations
- Integrated USB-charging stations for convenience
- Straightforward assembly process for most models
What We Don’t Like:
- No white-glove or in-room delivery service
- Limited bespoke options, though customization within set designs is available
Burrow specializes in couches featuring mid-century modern and Scandinavian-inspired designs. Their modular designs are a key highlight, offering the flexibility to expand your couch configuration over time, although this feature is not universal across all models. A notable perk is the inclusion of USB-charging stations in many sofas, reducing reliance on wall outlets and enhancing convenience.
Burrow’s website presents fewer filtering options compared to some retailers. While full customization is not available, Burrow allows for personalization through selections of seat number, fabric, leg finish, arm style, and reversible cushions in certain designs.
You can also enhance your couch with matching add-ons like ottomans, pillows, and movable chaises. The Burrow Block Nomad Sofa is a highly-rated model we’ve tested, offering a range of customizable features.
Return Policy: 30-day return window | Delivery Options: Standard shipping | Average Wait Time for Custom Orders: Not applicable
Burrow Mambo 5-Piece Sectional
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Burrow-Mambo-5-Piece-Sectional-3697d5691c9342e8901578e264b184a5.jpg)
Burrow Range Fabric 2-Piece Sofa
Burrow Nomad Velvet Sofa with Chaise and Ottoman
Joybird
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Joybird-Furniture-45c93251700c4002bea0bf68f94fb510.jpg)
Joybird
What We Like:
- Extensive fabric selection catering to various lifestyles
- Generous 90-day return policy for customer satisfaction
- Option to postpone shipping if needed for flexibility
What We Don’t Like:
- White-glove delivery service is somewhat limited in availability
Joybird is another prominent retailer specializing in mid-century modern designs. A key advantage of Joybird is the ability to customize your couch fabric to align with your lifestyle needs, offering options that are pet-friendly, stain-resistant, sustainable, and more.
For those seeking immediate gratification, Joybird provides ready-to-ship options. The Briar Sleeper Sofa is available in several quick-ship upholstery choices. It’s noted for its easy setup and convenient conversion into a sleeper bed.
Beyond online services, Joybird operates showrooms in select US cities, though fewer than some competitors. Their website features customer-submitted photos, offering realistic perspectives on how couches look in actual homes, beyond professional staging. While white-glove delivery is offered on some models, its availability is not universal. Joybird also allows you to lock in pricing and customize your couch later, with potential shipping delays if required, adding a layer of purchase flexibility.
Return Policy: 90-day return window | Delivery Options: Standard shipping, curbside delivery, in-home delivery | Average Wait Time for Custom Orders: 4 to 6 weeks
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/joybird-briar-sleeper-sofa-b089bcc02a01478da976bbad5ff0b04f.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Joybird-Miller-Sleeper-Sofa-07d547f05264420182ee6fb7ce18497e.jpg)
Joybird Haine Modular U-Sofa Bumper Sectional
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Joybird-Chelsea-Sofa-cc69d5882f474399b678e6760644a496.jpg)
Crate & Barrel
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/crate-barrel-avondale-wood-leg-2-piece-sectional-sofa-baad6f6868c945058d630303b2ce0b0b.jpg)
Crate and Barrel
What We Like:
- Physical store locations for in-person viewing
- Extensive, high-quality, and durable couch selection
- Option to order up to five complimentary fabric swatches
What We Don’t Like:
- Higher delivery costs compared to some competitors
Crate & Barrel is another leading retailer for modern couch designs. They are highly regarded for their commitment to quality materials and long-lasting durability. Many Crate & Barrel couches consistently earn top rankings in our best couch guides, maintaining their quality over years of use.
Customization is a strong point, with options to tailor size, depth, cushion type, and fabric. Their diverse range includes sectionals, loveseats, apartment-sized sofas, and bench seat sofas. With a vast fabric library, Crate & Barrel offers up to five free swatches to aid in your selection.
For those seeking quicker delivery, Crate & Barrel often lists ready-to-ship options within their couch selections. However, delivery fees are generally higher than some other retailers. Like many brands, custom or made-to-order pieces are excluded from the standard return policy.
Crate & Barrel offers white-glove delivery, particularly beneficial for larger items like the Oceanside Leather Queen Sleeper Sofa. During our testing, the Oceanside proved to be an excellent family sofa, noted for its wide armrests and comfortable cushions.
Design services are also available, including in-home and virtual consultations. Their physical stores provide a valuable opportunity to experience couches firsthand before purchasing.
Return Policy: 30-day return window | Delivery Options: Standard shipping, in-home delivery | Average Wait Time for Custom Orders: Varies
Crate & Barrel Oceanside Leather Queen Sleeper Sofa
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/crate–barrel-deep-bench-sofa-440efce15a194e41862faa722354d4d9.jpg)
Crate & Barrel Willow II Slipcovered Sofa
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Crate–Barrel-Wells-Sofa-b3c82787632e4999b271248f4bd81c97.jpg)
Sixpenny
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/sixpenny-neva-sofa-e020c764d08e4b5aa8a24f27f3178725.jpg)
Sixpenny
What We Like:
- Unique blend of contemporary and classic design aesthetics
- Commitment to eco-friendly and ethically sourced materials
- Full customization options to create your perfect couch
What We Don’t Like:
- Longer delivery timelines for custom orders
- White-glove delivery available at an additional cost
Sixpenny may offer a more curated selection compared to larger retailers, but their couches and sectionals stand out for exceptional craftsmanship and a distinctive design philosophy that merges contemporary and classic elements.
Sixpenny prioritizes sustainability and ethical sourcing, utilizing eco-friendly materials. They offer extensive customization, allowing you to select fabrics and colors, and collaborate with their design team to tailor every aspect of your couch.
We tested the Aria 84″ Leather Sofa and appreciated its relaxed yet refined aesthetic. The cushions were notably comfortable, and the frame required no assembly.
Unless you opt for a ready-to-ship item, Sixpenny couches are made to order, potentially requiring up to 12 weeks for delivery. However, unlike some retailers, made-to-order Sixpenny couches are returnable within the 30-day window. Front-door delivery is standard, with white-glove delivery available for an extra fee.
Return Policy: 30-day return window | Delivery Options: Front-door delivery, white-glove delivery | Average Wait Time for Custom Orders: 10 to 12 weeks, or longer
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/sixpenny-aria-leather-sofa-ea3d03ce21914036b7e9999fba74439e.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Sixpenny-Neva-Sleeper-Sofa-a547a79f92764def8a1c8a1ef0b28d92.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Sixpenny-Olea-Sofa-1686b5e6a7a3442f88c293900efeceb9.jpg)
Ashley Furniture
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Ashley-Furniture-53ecc15e49da466eb794d56210e1e113.jpg)
Courtesy of Ashley Furniture
What We Like:
- Brick-and-mortar store locations for in-person shopping
- Abundant options available for under $1,000, catering to budget-conscious shoppers
- Diverse style range spanning traditional, modern, and French country designs
What We Don’t Like:
- Limited customization options compared to some retailers
Ashley Furniture, similar to Wayfair, offers a broad spectrum of styles, moving beyond a singular design focus. Their offerings range from classic traditional to contemporary modern and charming French country aesthetics.
A key advantage of Ashley Furniture is affordability. They present a wealth of couch options starting at just a few hundred dollars, in contrast to higher-end retailers where prices can easily climb into the thousands. This makes Ashley Furniture a compelling choice for those seeking the best place to buy a couch without breaking the bank.
Ashley Furniture also provides a price-match guarantee, ensuring you get the most competitive price. While some conditions apply, this policy offers significant value.
Their physical stores allow you to experience couches directly. However, customization is more limited compared to some competitors. Given the extensive selection, this may not be a major drawback for many shoppers.
Return Policy: 30-day return window | Delivery Options: Standard shipping, front-door delivery, white-glove delivery | Average Wait Time for Custom Orders: Not listed
Ashley Furniture Laylabrok 3-Piece Sectional
Ashley Furniture Altari Queen Sofa Sleeper
Ashley Furniture Sofa in a neutral living room
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Ashley-Furniture-Maimz-Sofa-a7b889eabd8544598fd7beb08d0d789a.jpg)
Ashley Furniture Party Time Dual-Power Reclining Sofa
Room & Board
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/room-board-6fd8a13645f24112b3a30437903fb2c4.jpg)
Room & Board
What We Like:
- Bespoke customization options for personalized designs
- Customer-friendly flexible return policy
- Physical store locations for hands-on experience
What We Don’t Like:
- Full-service delivery, including setup, incurs an additional charge
Room & Board couches are favored for their modern yet timeless designs, transcending fleeting trends. They operate numerous physical stores across the US and prioritize collaboration with American artisans.
Customization is a hallmark of Room & Board. For many couches, including the Metro Sofa, you can select depth, leg finish, fabric, and size. The Metro Sofa impressed us with its enduring quality even after a year in a pet-friendly home, maintaining a like-new appearance.
Room & Board also offers fully bespoke sectionals and couches, built from the ground up to your specifications, making them a top choice when seeking a highly personalized sectional couch.
Their return policy is notably flexible, extending beyond quick-ship items. They encourage prompt communication if you’re dissatisfied with your purchase. As with many custom furniture retailers, made-to-order pieces have longer delivery times, and full-service delivery with setup is an added expense.
Return Policy: Flexible | Delivery Options: Standard shipping, full-service delivery | Average Wait Time for Custom Orders: 8 to 10 weeks
Room & Board Deco Convertible Sleeper Sofa
Room & Board Astaire Bench Cushion Sofa
Room & Board Astaire Three-Piece Sofa Sectional
Raymour & Flanigan
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/raymour–flanigan-enbright-microfiber-power-reclining-sectional-with-pop-up-sleeper-4773b08f293e41c8a9529f361d89ecff.jpg)
Raymour & Flanigan
What We Like:
- Unique couch features, including integrated USB charging ports
- Helpful room planning service to visualize furniture placement
- Physical store locations for in-person browsing
What We Don’t Like:
- More restrictive return policy compared to some retailers
Raymour & Flanigan is a favored retailer due to its wide variety of styles and extensive customization possibilities. As a family-owned business, they operate numerous stores, though fewer than Pottery Barn or Ashley Furniture.
Their couch selection allows you to filter not just by style but also by features like built-in heating and USB charging, catering to modern lifestyle needs.
The return policy is more limited; returns are not accepted once a couch is delivered and accepted into your home. Careful inspection upon delivery is crucial. However, they offer design services and room planning tools to aid in making the right choice initially.
Return Policy: Limited; returns not accepted after home delivery and acceptance | Delivery Options: Standard shipping, white-glove delivery | Average Wait Time for Custom Orders: 10 to 14 weeks
Raymour & Flanigan Skye Power Reclining Sofa
Raymour and Flanigan Shiloh Sofa
Raymour and Flanigan McKinley Sofa
Raymour and Flanigan Mirasol Sofa
How We Picked the Retailers
Our selection of the best places to buy a couch is based on comprehensive research and evaluation. Many of the featured retailers have consistently appeared in our couch roundups, whether for overall excellence (like our best sleeper sofa guide) or specific styles (such as our best leather sofas guide).
The chosen retailers excel in meeting diverse consumer needs for online couch shopping, including robust search filters, varied delivery options, and helpful design services.
A priority was to represent a wide spectrum of styles and budgets. Our vetting process also considered return policies, financing options, warranties, and the presence of physical locations for in-person viewing.
What to Look for When Buying a Couch
The Couch’s Style and Design
Couches come in an extensive array of styles and designs to suit individual preferences. Nancy Swanton advises considering how a couch will harmonize with existing furniture when evaluating style and design.
“For example, if your current furniture is primarily ‘leggy,’ consider contrasting it with a couch that sits lower to the ground,” she suggests. Retailers like Wayfair, Ashley Furniture, and Raymour & Flanigan offer diverse styles, while West Elm and Crate & Barrel emphasize modern aesthetics.
Couch shapes also play a significant role. “Sectionals, L-shaped sofas, and traditional sofas each have distinct visual impacts and functionalities,” Swanton notes.
Choosing the right shape involves considering your seating needs and cushion preferences – single bench, two cushions, or three cushions. “A bench cushion offers a streamlined, modern look ideal for lounging, but it may show wear more readily due to its construction,” Swanton adds.
The Couch’s Material
Fabric choice impacts both comfort and overall room design.
Durable options like leather, microfiber, and performance fabrics are practical, while cotton and linen are more susceptible to stains, according to Swanton. Most retailers listed offer a range of fabrics. Joybird stands out by offering fabric recommendations based on your lifestyle needs.
Introducing contrast in materials can enhance your space. “Mixing design elements, such as varying design styles, adds visual interest and prevents a ‘too-matched’ feel,” Swanton advises.
The Overall Cost
Couch prices vary widely, from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, especially for custom orders. Wayfair and Ashley Furniture are budget-friendlier, while Pottery Barn and Room and Board tend to be in a higher price bracket.
Couch size, customization level, and features like heating or USB charging influence the final price. If you have a specific couch in mind, seek retailers with price-match guarantees, such as Ashley Furniture and Raymour & Flanigan, to potentially reduce costs.
Additional Retailer Considerations
Available Delivery and Assembly Options
If furniture assembly is not your preference, prioritize retailers offering white-glove delivery. This service includes full assembly and placement of your couch. Even some budget furniture retailers offer this option.
White-glove service may involve extra charges, which should be factored into your budget.
Delivery timelines and costs are also important. Free shipping is common, particularly for higher-priced items like couches. Delivery times vary based on customization and availability.
Custom or bespoke couches generally require several weeks or longer for delivery from any retailer.
Flexible Return Policies and Long Warranties
A flexible return policy is crucial, especially without in-person previews. Most retailers limit returns to 30 days for non-customized couches. However, Room and Board offers a more flexible policy, and Joybird provides a 90-day window.
Warranty options are also significant. One-year limited warranties are standard, but retailers like Wayfair, West Elm, Raymour & Flanigan, Crate & Barrel, and Pottery Barn offer extended protection plans.
Joybird provides a lifetime limited warranty, offering enhanced purchase confidence.
Any Financing Options
All listed retailers offer financing for those preferring installment payments. Many, including Wayfair, Pottery Barn, and Crate & Barrel, have in-house credit cards with rewards programs.
Others partner with third-party financing services like Affirm, Klarna, or Shoppay. Ashley Furniture also offers a lease-to-own option for greater payment flexibility.
One More Thing
Consider the value of in-person viewing. Experiencing a couch firsthand can be invaluable.
Ashley Furniture, Pottery Barn, West Elm, Room and Board, Crate & Barrel, and Raymour & Flanigan have physical locations. Joybird has showrooms showcasing best-selling models.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Nicole Pyles, a home decor writer for The Spruce, researched and vetted numerous couch retailers for this guide. She assessed shipping, return policies, inventory, quality, and other key factors. She also consulted The Spruce’s couch reviews to ensure our top picks were included.
Our Experts:
The 8 Best Reclining Loveseats for Ultimate Relaxation
