AP Buyline’s content is created independently of The Associated Press newsroom. Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we might earn commissions from our partners’ links in this content. Learn more about our policies and terms here.
A couch is more than just a piece of furniture — it often feels like a sanctuary. Our couches are the place where we spend endless hours of rest, relaxation and entertainment, and they’re also typically the main statement piece in your living room. The perfect couch, then, is one that’s eye-catching and stylish, but is also sink-into-a-cloud comfortable. To bring you a roundup of some of the best couches available, I consulted experts and pored through details from retailers, to put together a list of couches that satisfy on comfort, quality and style.
What to consider when buying couches
Your new couch will ideally last for many years, so it’s important to make the right selection. I consulted with two experts to help you make smart shopping choices: Mariya Snisar, head of interior design at Renowell, and Jamie Mitri, interior designer and founder and CEO of Mosspure. Read on for their recommendations and their most important considerations when shopping for a couch.
Comfort
When shopping for a couch, Snisar says that comfort is paramount, and is impacted by three main components: the cushion material (down, foam, springs, etc.) and density; the seat depth, which should allow you to sit with your back against the backrest comfortably; and the arm height, which should provide good support without being too high or low.
Mitri suggests asking yourself what level of comfort you’re looking for. “Couches are made of different materials and have several features that impact their comfort level,” she says. “Some may come with added features such as reclining ability, massage, or heat additions for added comfort and ergonomics.”
Construction and materials
The materials and construction of your couch are a major consideration when making a purchase. Each type of material (leather, microfiber, cotton, etc.) comes with its own pros and cons when it comes to cleaning, durability and breathability, according to Snisar. Both she and Mitri recommend thinking about things like kids, pets and intended usage when selecting a material.
When it comes to construction, Snisar says to “look for sturdy frames, joints and suspension to ensure long-lasting quality.” Keep in mind that the materials you choose for the frame and fabric all affect the style of the couch.
Price
A couch is an important purchase, and you can shop in a wide variety of price points, all offering something different in terms of comfort, style and durability. Your budget will determine the features, material, design and size of the couch you purchase.
Size
You may dream of owning a luxurious, L-shaped couch that comfortably seats ten, but depending on the size of your space, a loveseat could be the practical choice. Snisar recommends measuring the space where the couch will go and considering the size carefully. “You'll want enough seating space but also enough room to move around comfortably,” she says. “Pay attention to depth and height as well.”
Our top picks for the best couches
Best budget couch: Walmart Amerlife Pull Out Sofa
Walmart Amerlife Pull Out Sofa
Couches come in such a wide range of options, you should never sacrifice quality just because you’re shopping on a budget. The Walmart Amerlife Pull Out Sofa comes in different color choices, doubles as a sleeper sofa and packs additional storage space, all for under $500.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 87 inches high x 53 inches wide x 39 inches deep.
- Weight: 71/191 pounds.
- Capacity: Not listed.
- Upholstery options: Bouclé, chenille.
- Color options: Boucle white, boucle gray, chenille beige, chenille gray.
- Frame material: Wood.
- Seat fill: Foam.
- Price on publish: $389.99.
What we like:
- Great for having guests over.
- Reversible for more flexibility.
- Budget-friendly price point.
What we don’t like:
- Limited color options.
- Arrives in three different large boxes.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The Walmart Amerlife Pull Out Sofa is an amazing budget buy that packs in a lot of couch for a very low price.
Get it here: Walmart Amerlife Pull Out Sofa
Best leather couch: Pottery Barn Turner Roll Leather Sofa
Pottery Barn Turner Roll Leather Sofa
The Turner Roll Leather Sofa from Pottery Barn features high-quality leather and an elegant, timeless design. As Mitri says, “This sofa provides aesthetics, luxury and high-end leather while also providing comfort. There are different color options to choose from as well, making this the perfect choice for any design or style.”
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 91 inches wide x 43.5 inches deep x 36 inches high.
- Weight: 158.75 pounds.
- Capacity: Not listed.
- Upholstery options: Leather.
- Color options: Thunder, blush, walnut, saddle, bourbon, stone, taupe, ebony nut, sandstone, caramel, midnight, hunter chocolate, camel, iron, pebble, indigo, matte red, cocoa, molasses, espresso, toffee, caramel, wolf gray.
- Frame material: Wood.
- Seat fill: Down.
- Price on publish: $3,399.
What we like:
- Down-filled seats are very comfortable.
- High-back construction is easier for relaxing.
- Top-quality leather.
What we don’t like:
- Price is prohibitive for some.
- Some colors take longer to order.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The Pottery Barn Turner Roll Leather sofa is incredibly comfortable, made of quality materials and is elegantly designed.
Get it here: Pottery Barn Turner Roll Leather Sofa
Best comfortable couch: Lovesac Create Your Own
Lovesac Create Your Own
True comfort is highly subjective, which makes a customizable couch a great buy. Lovesac couches are comfortable and offer multiple configurations, sizes, back and arm styles, materials and additional features. You can design your own right on their website, and their covers are removable and easy to clean, making them perfect for families and pet owners.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 82 inches wide x 35 inches deep x 28.5 inches high.
- Weight: Varies.
- Capacity: 1,000 pounds.
- Upholstery options: Chenille, leather, top grain leather, corded velvet solid polylinen, crossweave, luxe chenille, brushed weave, phur/latticed velvet bouclé.
- Color options: Black, blue, brown, gray, neutral, purple, red, tan, white, taupe.
- Frame material: Wood.
- Seat fill: Foam/Lovesoft.
- Price on publish: Starts at $2,160 for the standard configuration.
What we like:
- Very comfortable.
- Many accessories and ability to customize.
- Plenty of color options.
What we don’t like:
- Cost is high.
- Lovesoft fill option is extra.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The Lovesac Create Your Own is stylish, easy to clean and highly customizable, but most importantly, it’s extremely comfortable.
Get it here: Lovesac Create Your Own
Best sectional couch: Castlery Adams Chaise Sectional
Castlery Adams Chaise Sectional
Offered in three vibrant colors and featuring three different customization options for the legs, this is a sectional couch that’s design-forward. “This modern take on a classic sofa boasts the structured silhouette of a conventional couch, but with some contemporary details, such as raised metal legs coupled with thinner, straight arms for a more tailored look,” says Snisar.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 102.3 inches wide x 35.4 inches deep x 33 inches high.
- Weight: 155.4 pounds; ottoman: 29.8 pounds).
- Capacity: Sofa: 4 x 330.7 pounds; ottoman: 330.7 pounds.
- Upholstery options: Polyester.
- Color options: Dove gray, indigo blue, pearl beige.
- Frame material: LVL and Plywood.
- Seat fill: Foam, fiber and pocket spring.
- Price on publish: $2,189.
What we like:
- Roomy and quite comfortable.
- Easy assembly.
- Very modern look.
What we don’t like:
- Limited upholstery types.
- Price is higher than others.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The Castlery Adams Chaise Sectional is an elegant and versatile sectional couch that comes highly recommended.
Get it here: Castlery Adams Chaise Sectional
Best high-tech couch: LA-Z-Boy Dorian Power Reclining Sofa
LA-Z-Boy Dorian Power Reclining Sofa
Featuring power-tilt headrests, side-mounted four-button control panels, built-in USB ports and more, the LA-Z-Boy Dorian Power Reclining Sofa provides for every high-tech need. It’s also a high end sofa that provides a nice aesthetic. Features such as headrests, plush cushioning and the power to recline at either end add to the value.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 86 inches wide x 39.5 inches deep x 44 inches high.
- Weight: 251.5 pounds.
- Capacity: Not listed.
- Upholstery options: Anti-microbial, pet-friendly, performance, iClean, conserve.
- Color options: 394(!) including tan, brown, red and orange, cream and white, black, green, gray, blue, teal.
- Frame material: Wood.
- Seat fill: Double-picked blown fiber.
- Price on publish: $3,599 and up, depending on cover choice.
What we like:
- Cushioning feels plush.
- Adjustable headrest.
- High tech features.
What we don’t like:
- Higher price point.
- Recline isn’t as deep as others.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The LA-Z-Boy Dorian Power Reclining Sofa retains the look of a classic couch while also boasting high-tech features.
Get it here: LA-Z-Boy Dorian Power Reclining Sofa
Best classic couch: Pottery Barn Pearce Square Arm Fabric Sofa
Pottery Barn Pearce Square Arm Fabric Sofa
The Pottery Barn Pearce Square Arm Fabric Sofa offers the perfect classic look without sacrificing comfort, and is Mitri’s top pick for a classic couch. “It’s traditional and classic, while providing a modern and contemporary touch,” she explains. “There is a sleek, high-end aesthetic with a nice balance of comfort.”
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 66 inches wide x 40 inches deep x 38 inches high.
- Weight: 135 pounds.
- Capacity: 500 pounds.
- Upholstery options: Basketweave, boucle, everyday suede, linen, vVelvet twill, chenille, plain weave, pattern.
- Color options: 165, including neutrals, grays, white/ivory, blue, red, green.
- Frame material: Wood.
- Seat fill: 50% virgin loose fibers, 45% feathers and 5% down.
- Price on publish: $1,799-$3,699.
What we like:
- Many options for color and upholstery.
- Feathers and down seat fill are very comfortable.
- Crafted with quality in the USA.
What we don’t like:
- Depending on options, price can be expensive.
- Weight capacity not as high as some sofas.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The Pottery Barn Pearce Square Arm Fabric Sofa is a classic couch made with quality craftsmanship.
Get it here: Pottery Barn Pearce Square Arm Fabric Sofa
Best sleeper couch: Coddle Switch Sleeper Sofa
Coddle Switch Sleeper Sofa
A sleeper sofa can be transformative, maximizing the sleeping capacity of your space. But these types of couches also have a reputation for being difficult to fold and unfold, as well as sacrificing comfort for functionality. The best sleeper sofas combine comfort with ease of use, and the Coddle Switch Sleeper Sofa offers both, says Mitri.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 95.3 inches wide x 41.3 inches deep x 33.9 inches high.
- Weight: 220 pounds.
- Capacity: Not listed.
- Upholstery options: Plush velvet, ash, fine weave.
- Color options: Coral, ash, asphalt, navy, dove, charcoal.
- Frame material: Metal and wood.
- Seat fill: Foam, also featuring pocket coil technology.
- Price on publish: $1,599.
What we like:
- Impressive comfort.
- Gorgeous colors available.
- Quick conversion to sleeper mode.
What we don’t like:
- Heavier than some.
- Features only three fabric options.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The Coddle Switch Sleeper Sofa is very comfortable, and it’s also easy to switch between sleeper and couch modes.
Get it here: Coddle Switch Sleeper Sofa
Best reclining couch: Betsy Furniture Microfiber Reclining Couch
Betsy Furniture Microfiber Reclining Couch
Rated four stars and above by hundreds of reviewers, the Betsy Microfiber Reclining couch is a clear crowd favorite. It comes in two elegant microfiber upholstery colors, and offers various recline-related features like an elevated footrest and a split back design, which allows you to recline one seat while keeping the others upright.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 87 inches wide x 37.4 inches deep x 39 inches high.
- Weight: 424 pounds.
- Capacity: 210 pounds.
- Upholstery options: Microfiber.
- Color options: Taupe, gray.
- Frame material: Wood.
- Seat fill: Foam.
- Price on publish: $1,599.
What we like:
- Very comfortable.
- Reclined position makes napping possible.
- Simple assembly.
What we don’t like:
- Price is high.
- Smaller weight capacity.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Whether you’re indulging in an afternoon nap or simply catching up on some long overdue relaxation, the Betsy Furniture Microfiber is a popular and comfortable recliner.
Get it here: Betsy Furniture Microfiber Reclining Couch
Best modular couch: Arhaus Owen 3-Piece Modular Sofa
Arhaus Owen 3-Piece Modular Sofa
The Arhaus Owen 3-piece Modular sofa is so popular that it was independently recommended to me by multiple experts. Mitri notes the sleek, contemporary look with high-level comfort, while the couch scores high on comfort for Snisar as well. She adds that the “couch’s low, deep seats are full of a combination of down feathers, as well as poly-fiber padding to guarantee a durable, plush feel.”
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 126 inches wide x 42 inches deep x 36 inches high.
- Weight: 289 pounds.
- Capacity: Not listed
- Upholstery options: Boucle.
- Color options: Burbank pepper.
- Frame material: Wood.
- Seat fill: Eco-friendly foam, down feathers.
- Price on publish: $5,200.
What we like:
- Durable fabric.
- Cushions are very soft.
- Impressive width makes it very relaxing.
What we don’t like:
- Only one color option.
- Price is definitely on the high end.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The Arhaus Owen 3-Piece Modular Sofa offers quality and versatility, with a modular design.
Get it here: Arhaus Owen 3-Piece Modular Sofa
Best couch for pet owners: Wayfair Luxury Modern Upholstered Sofa
88" Luxury Modern Upholstered Sofa For Living Room, Couches With Solid Wood Frame
The best couch for a pet owner is one that’s easy to clean and holds up against wear and tear. This Wayfair Upholstered sofa is highly rated by reviewers, and it has removable and detachable cushion covers made from a stain-resistant polyester blend, making it a breeze to clean.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 88.58 inches wide x 37.4 inches deep x 33.07 inches high.
- Weight: 120 pounds.
- Capacity: 900 pounds.
- Upholstery options: Polyester blend.
- Color options: Beige, blue, dark gray, gray.
- Frame Material: Wood.
- Seat fill: Foam, cotton, feather.
- Price on publish: $499.99.
What we like:
- Price is very reasonable.
- Durable exterior fabric.
- Couch looks very impressive.
What we don’t like:
- Color options are mostly muted.
- Cushion covers are removable but difficult to put back on.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
For great durability and an impressive design, the Wayfair Luxury Modern Upholstered Sofa is a fantastic couch for pet owners.
Get it here: Wayfair Luxury Modern Upholstered Sofa
Best slipcovered couch: Crate & Barrel Willow II Slipcovered Bench Sofa
Willow II Slipcovered Bench Sofa
Slipcovered sofas come in many different colors, patterns and styles, but Mitri recommends the Crate & Barrel Willow II Slipcovered Sofa because it’s “sophisticated, sleek and clean while providing a comfortable environment for your space. It’s also easy to clean and maintain, and is made of stain resistant cotton.”
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 84 inches wide x 34 inches deep x 36 inches high.
- Weight: Not listed.
- Capacity: Not listed.
- Upholstery options: Solana.
- Color options: 18, including white, dune, taupe, dove, fog, charcoal, night, indigo, olive.
- Frame material: Wood.
- Seat fill: Polyfoam.
- Price on publish: $1,759.
What we like:
- Washable slipcover.
- Plenty of beautiful colors available.
- Very comfortable cushions.
What we don’t like:
- Couch back isn’t very high.
- Price is somewhat steep.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The Crate & Barrel Willow II Slipcovered Bench Sofa is a stylish upholstered couch that offers both durability and comfort.
Get it here: Crate & Barrel Willow II Slipcovered Bench Sofa
Best couch for small spaces: Pottery Barn Balboa Upholstered Media Lounger
Pottery Barn Balboa Upholstered Media Lounger
A smaller space is elevated with a couch that’s just the right size, and for that, Mitri suggests the Pottery Barn Balboa Upholstered Media Lounger. “This is unique and a conversation starter for sure — it has a comforting appeal and will be the couch everyone wants to sit on during a family or friends gathering.”
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 58 inches wide x 68.5 inches deep x 38 inches high.
- Weight: 150 pounds.
- Capacity: Not listed.
- Upholstery options: Basketweave, boucle, everyday suede, linen, velvet twill, chenille, plain weave, pattern.
- Color options: 143, including ivory, metal, navy, moss, light gray, blue, rosewood, mushroom, red, cloud, parchment, chambray, indigo, dark moss, slate, brown, stone.
- Frame material: Wood.
- Seat fill: Polyester wrapped cushions.
- Price on publish: $2,249-$3,899, depending on cover choice.
What we like:
- Wide base makes relaxing easy.
- Free swatches available.
- Four back pillows for premium comfort.
What we don’t like:
- Price is steep.
- Seat height is only 21 inches.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
When looking for a great couch to squeeze into a small space, Pottery Barn’s Balboa Upholstered Media Lounger is a can’t miss sofa.
Get it here: Pottery Barn Balboa Upholstered Media Lounger
Best splurge couch: Pottery Barn Dream Square Wide Arm Upholstered Modular Chaise
Pottery Barn Dream Square Wide Arm Upholstered Modular Chaise
If you’re looking to splurge, Mitri recommends the Pottery Barn Dream Square Wide Arm Modular Chaise for its sleek, sophisticated comfort, as well as its amazing aesthetic. The Dream Collection is customizable and is available in multiple sizes, colors and other options.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 129 inches wide x 86 inches deep x 34 inches high.
- Weight: 365 pounds.
- Capacity: 1,100 pounds.
- Upholstery options: Basketweave, boucle, everyday suede, linen, velvet twill, chenille, plain weave, pattern.
- Color options: 140, including ivory, metal, navy, moss, light gray, blue, rosewood, olive sand, chambray, charcoal, white, graphite, midnight, oat, light wheat, merlot, pebble.
- Frame material: Wood.
- Seat fill: Foam.
- Price on publish: $5,596-$11,145, depending on options.
What we like:
- Wide arm base.
- Ottoman provides extra storage.
- Modular design provides room flexibility.
What we don’t like:
- Too large for some rooms.
- Price is high.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
When nothing but the best will do, the Pottery Barn Dream Square Wide Arm Upholstered Chaise has it all: comfort, style and quality.
Get it here: Pottery Barn Dream Square Wide Arm Upholstered Modular Chaise
Best velvet couch: Rove Concepts Milo Modular Sectional
Rove Concepts Milo Modular Sectional
A velvet couch can bring a touch of elegance to your living room, and for a modern, comfortable option, Mitri recommends the Milo Modular Sectional by Rove Concepts. “This is not your traditional velvet-looking couch,” she says. “It comes in different, unique colors of velvet and has a modern feel to it, while providing comfort.”
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 133.4 inches wide x 78.7 inches deep x x 31.5 inches high.
- Weight: Not listed.
- Capacity: 330 pounds.
- Upholstery options: Modern felt, plush velvet microfiber leather, bouclé, Venice vegan suede.
- Color options: Chiffon, trento eggshell, pearl, glacier gray, black, solstice, malmo, alesund.
- Frame material: Wood.
- Seat fill: Foam with goose feathers.
- Price on publish: $3,859.
What we like:
- Goose down cushions feel luxurious.
- Easy assembly.
- Sleek, low-profile design.
What we don’t like:
- Price is high.
- Missing some color options I’d hoped to see.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
For the unique feel of velvet, the Rove Concepts Milo Modular Sectional offers multiple color options and a modern design.
Get it here: Rove Concepts Milo Modular Sectional
Best bouclé couch: Article Kayra 87” Bouclé Sofa
Article Kayra 87” Bouclé Sofa
As well as being a super trendy material right now, bouclé is also surprisingly practical, being highly resistant to fading and relatively easy to clean. Put that on top of a deeply stylish and elegant couch and you’ve got a serious recipe for success, as this curved statement sofa from Article ably demonstrates.
Specifications:
- Length: 87 inches wide x 45.5 inches deep x 31 inches high.
- Weight: 97 pounds.
- Capacity: Not listed.
- Upholstery options: Bouclé.
- Color options: Ivory.
- Frame material: Kiln dried pine wood.
- Seat fill: Foam.
- Price on publish: $1,299.
What we like:
- Luxurious feel.
- Stylish design.
- Great statement piece.
What we don’t like:
- Only one color option.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
An extremely elegant option from Article, with a trendy and comfortable bouclé fabric covering.
Get it here: Article Kayra 87” Bouclé Sofa
Best oversized couch: Albany Park Kova Cozy Pit Sectional
Albany Park Kova Cozy Pit Sectional
There’s no better feeling than letting your entire body sink into a plush, oversized couch. Also one of Mitri’s picks, the Albany Park Kova Cozy Sectional strikes the perfect balance of comfort and a modern look, combined with other features like hypoallergenic cushions, modular mobility and storage options.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 122 inches wide x 79 inches deep x 26 inches high.
- Weight: 598 pounds.
- Capacity: Not listed.
- Upholstery options: Polyester.
- Color options: 13, including charcoal, beige, olive velvet, rust velvet, camel velvet, dark teal velvet, alabaster bouclé.
- Frame material: Plywood.
- Seat fill: Microfiber.
- Price on publish: $3,224.
What we like:
- Back seat cushions are reversible.
- Stately appearance.
- Many color options to choose from.
What we don’t like:
- Price is high.
- Couch is relatively heavy.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Aesthetically beautiful and comfortably oversized, the Albany Park Kova Cozy Pit Sectional comes highly recommended.
Get it here: Albany Park Kova Cozy Pit Sectional
How we selected the best couches
I began by consulting interior design experts for their opinions, then did additional research by looking through the options that were recommended, comparing the product details, and reading reviews. There were a few criteria that were most important to the curation of the final list:
Comfort
The experts I spoke to all stressed that comfort is paramount when selecting a couch. It can be tough to assess comfort from afar, so I relied on recommendations from interior design experts, as well as feedback from reviews, to determine comfort level. I also looked at the materials the couch is made of, eyeing things like cushion fill and cover materials, to assess the couch’s comfort level.
Style
Style is subjective, but interior designers have their finger on the pulse of what most people like and don’t like, so I relied on their advice to guide my style choices. I also looked for couches that represented a range of different styles, to provide enough options to suit any home.
Size
When it comes to the size of your couch, it’s easy to fall into the trap of assuming that bigger is better, but one thing that experts stress is to find a couch that’s just right for the size of your space. An oversized couch will make a small room feel cluttered, whereas an appropriately-sized couch can turn a modest space into a cozy retreat. I consulted interior designers to come up with a range of great couches, all at different sizes.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between a couch and a sofa?
According to Snisar, there is no definitive difference between a couch and a sofa — the terms are often used interchangeably to refer to an upholstered seat for more than one person in a living room or other reception area.
Nonetheless, Snisar does offer some general distinctions between the two: “A couch is typically considered more informal and comfortable, while a sofa is seen as more formal and elegant. Couches also tend to have lower backs and deeper seats made for lounging, while sofas often have higher backs and shallower seats for more upright sitting. Finally, couches frequently have no arms or low-track arms, while sofas usually have higher, more decorative armrests.”
How do you clean a leather couch?
To clean a leather couch, Mitri recommends following the guidance of the manufacturer. This is the best way to determine how frequently it should be cleaned, and what cleaning materials can be safely used without damaging or discoloring it. In addition, use cleaning products that are made specifically for leather couches. To simply dust your leather couch, use a damp cloth with just water. Mitri does not recommend using household cleaning products on leather, as it could damage, discolor or dry out the material.
How do you clean an upholstered couch?
According to Snisar, to clean an upholstered couch, you can vacuum the couch and cushions to remove any loose dirt and debris, and spot clean stains with a mixture of mild detergent and water, using a clean cloth or sponge. Make sure you blot the stain instead of rubbing it to avoid spreading it, she recommends. Always consult the care label for cleaning instructions, and for a deeper clean, consider using a steam cleaner or hiring a professional upholstery cleaning service.
Related article: How to clean a couch like a pro and freshen up your home
AP Buyline’s content is created independently of The Associated Press newsroom. Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we might earn commissions from our partners’ links in this content. Learn more about our policies and terms here.