Top 16 Destinations to Purchase Your Ideal Sofa

West Elm is celebrated for its extensive collection of contemporary furniture at affordable prices. The brand provides a diverse selection of sofas in various styles, sizes, and fabrics, curated to avoid overwhelming online shoppers. While many of their couches are custom-made, leading to delivery times ranging from weeks to months, West Elm ensures a hassle-free experience with their white glove delivery service. 

Among our team, nine members own West Elm couches—more than from any other retailer. Three of us particularly recommend the Harmony collection, which includes both sofas and sectionals. The sectional's exceptional durability earned it the title of Best Sectional Sleeper Sofa. Its stain-resistant fabric resisted spills like hot sauce, chocolate, coffee, and ice cream without damage, and it retained its shape after a year of heavy use. Additionally, transforming the sofa from a couch to a bed and back took less than a minute.

A few of us encountered issues with West Elm orders—one sofa arrived damaged, and a sectional had mismatched upholstery. While the customer service team was helpful and resolved these issues, replacements took several months to arrive. Another drawback is that West Elm does not adjust prices if a couch goes on sale after purchase. Despite these challenges, we appreciate West Elm's couches for their durability, comfort, and stylish designs, offering ample space for relaxation. 

Top Choices from West Elm

• Harmony Modular 2-Piece Sleeper Sectional with Storage Chaise (123")

Shipping Cost: $159–$429 | Return Policy: 30 days; custom-made items are non-returnable | Delivery Options: Full-service delivery

Our experience shopping for a couch with Room & Board was nothing short of exceptional. The website offers a variety of sofa categories, including sectionals, sleepers, and chaises, with filters for width, cushion type, and fabric to help you find the perfect fit for your home. The detailed product descriptions provided us with the confidence to make informed purchases. 

The delivery experience was seamless and efficient, with one of our couches arriving earlier than expected. Room & Board sofas are crafted with high-quality materials, featuring plush, durable fabrics and exceptional comfort. After testing the popular Metro Sofa, we can confirm it strikes the perfect balance—neither too firm nor too soft. The fabric is robust, and the cushions are top-notch. Even after a year of use, including some feline attention, the sofa still looks pristine. It’s arguably the best couch we’ve ever tested. We also highly recommend the André Sofa, which includes a reversible chaise lounge and a detachable footstool.

Beyond its durability, Room & Board offers an outstanding return policy—allowing returns at any time, provided the couch is undamaged. Nozawa notes that while she rarely returns items for clients, Room & Board has always been accommodating and understanding. 

Top Picks from Room & Board:

• Metro Sofa
• André Sofa with Chaise

Shipping Cost: $99 | Return Policy: No time limit | Delivery Options:  Full-service delivery

Pottery Barn maintains high-quality standards despite its large-scale production. Its transitional style appeals to a broad range of decor tastes and spaces. The sofas feature refined yet classic details, such as rolled arms and skirted bases, offering a modern twist on traditional designs.

Regardless of the model you select, it’s typically available in various sizes and cushion types, with over 95 fabric options and 30 leather varieties to choose from. We were particularly impressed with the Turner Roll Arm Leather Sofa Chaise Sectional, which only improved with age during our year-long testing. The leather showcased a premium appearance and texture, gaining a beautiful patina over time. Pottery Barn’s excellence extends beyond this model—we’ve also had positive experiences with the PB Comfort Roll Arm Upholstered Sofa, Canyon Roll Arm Upholstered Sofa, and Buchanan Roll Arm Leather Sofa.

Although Pottery Barn comes with a higher price tag, we believe its couches are worth the investment. The upholstery feels luxurious, the deep seats are exceptionally comfortable, and the stain-resistant fabrics are easy to maintain. The white glove delivery service was seamless, with each couch set up in just minutes. While the extensive fabric selection might feel daunting, free swatches and interior design consultations are available to help you make the perfect choice.

Top Picks from Pottery Barn:

• PB Comfort Roll Arm Upholstered Sofa
• Canyon Roll Arm Upholstered Sofa
• Turner Roll Arm Leather Sofa Chaise Sectional
• Buchanan Roll Arm Leather Sofa

Shipping Cost: $279–$429 | Return Policy: 30 days; custom-made items are non-returnable | Delivery Options: White glove or doorstep delivery

Crate & Barrel’s furniture collection demonstrates that modern design can be both stylish and inviting. Their sofas combine mid-century aesthetics with unique character, offering everything from soft bouclé designs to sleek leather sectionals. While the prices are steep, visiting a Crate & Barrel store or outlet can help ensure you find the perfect match for your home. 

Our interactions with Crate & Barrel were smooth and hassle-free. The online product descriptions were thorough, and the white glove delivery service was efficient, with no significant delays or issues.

Beyond their appealing designs, the couches are exceptionally well-crafted. The Axis 2-Seat Sofa and Axis 2-Piece Sectional Sofa feature durable, easy-to-maintain fabric that remains pristine even after years of use. We also highly recommend the Lounge Couch, one of the most comfortable options we’ve tested. With three seat depth options—36, 41, or 46 inches—it’s perfect for hosting guests or lounging. The cushions strike a perfect balance, offering softness without losing support, making them ideal for naps.

Top Picks from Crate & Barrel:

• Axis 2-Seat Sofa
• Axis 2-Piece Sectional Sofa
• Lounge Couch

Shipping Cost: 10% of total cost | Return Policy: 30 days | Delivery Options: In-home delivery

Since its founding in 2013, Article has been dedicated to producing durable, affordable furniture with a retro-modern aesthetic. Their sofas are versatile and well-crafted, though customization is limited. Each design is available in a few fabric choices and configurations. For instance, the Timber Sofa can be purchased as a three-seater, a sofa with a chaise, or a corner sectional. 

Article’s smaller, carefully selected furniture collection makes couch shopping straightforward and ensures a cohesive aesthetic for your home, especially when buying multiple pieces. Their delivery service is also dependable—none of the six team members who purchased Article couches experienced issues with the white glove delivery.

We tested the Sven Sofa in leather and velvet, the Timber Sofa in leather and fabric, and the Abisko Sofa in velvet. After over a year of use, we were impressed by their durability, comfort, and timeless style. The Abisko Sofa was particularly notable for its firm, supportive cushions that retained their shape throughout testing. For those seeking stylish and dependable furniture, Article is a top contender.

Top Picks from Article:

• Sven Sofa
• Timber Sofa
• Abisko Sofa

Shipping Cost: Flat-rate shipping in standard service areas begins at $49 | Return Policy: 30 days | Delivery Options: Contactless or in-room delivery

Shopping for a sofa can be daunting, which is why Darryl and Jessica Sharpton created Albany Park to simplify the process. The brand stands out by offering a curated selection of just five sofas in styles like standard, sectional, loveseat, and sleeper—perfect for those who struggle with decision-making. The couches come in compact, apartment-friendly boxes, and delivery is complimentary. 

Albany Park operates exclusively online, so in-person shopping isn’t an option. However, the detailed product descriptions provided all the information we needed. While white glove delivery isn’t available, the extra assembly effort was worthwhile—once assembled, the Kova L-Shape + Ottoman received numerous compliments. The multi-box delivery system is particularly convenient for those in smaller apartments with narrow entryways.

The Lido Sofa added a timeless touch to our space, offering comfort for activities like napping, knitting, and reading. We particularly loved the bouclé fabric, which seamlessly blended with various aesthetics. For larger spaces, the Kova Pit impressed us with its deep seats and plush cushions, exceeding our expectations.

Top Picks from Albany Park:

• Kova L-Shape + Ottoman
• Lido Sofa
• Kova Pit

Shipping Cost: Free | Return Policy: 30 days | Delivery Options: Ground shipping

Ashley Furniture specializes in traditional designs, offering a vast selection of over 200 couches, including sectionals, recliners, and sleepers. While the online catalog can be daunting, the brand’s 600+ physical stores allow you to see the furniture in person before making a decision.

Most sofas qualify for white glove delivery, though ground shipping requires self-assembly. We chose white glove delivery, which was remarkably efficient, taking under 30 minutes. The Darcy Sofa we tested was exceptionally comfortable and durable. Ashley Furniture’s sofas combine comfort and quality at affordable prices, making them a great choice. 

Top Picks from Ashley Furniture:

• Darcy Sofa

Shipping Cost: Varies based on size and weight | Return Policy: 30 days | Delivery Options: Doorstep or no-hassle delivery

Castlery focuses on sleek, minimalist sofas that align with modern aesthetics. Their range includes two-seaters, sectionals, and more. While the brand lacks physical stores, their website allows easy filtering by dimensions, materials, and cushion firmness. Free fabric swatches are also available to help you visualize your sofa before buying. 

The brand offers multiple delivery options, including white glove service, though some of us encountered scheduling challenges. We were impressed with the design and color of the Owen Chaise Sectional Sofa and the Pebble Sofa, but felt the cushions could be softer, as they began to lose shape within six months. Additionally, Castlery’s 14-day return window is shorter than many competitors. However, if you value a user-friendly website with easy filtering, Castlery is an excellent choice.

Top Picks from Castlery:

• Owen Chaise Sectional Sofa
• Pebble Sofa

Shipping Cost: Free in select cities; otherwise starts at $149 | Return Policy: 14 days | Delivery Options: Standard, room of choice, or white glove

As a retail giant, Walmart provides an extensive selection of budget-friendly couches. While only certain Walmart stores stock furniture, their online platform features thousands of sofas. To simplify your search, you can filter by style, material, seating capacity, and other features.

Walmart sofas are made from more affordable materials, which may affect their longevity compared to higher-end brands. However, we were impressed by the luxurious appearance and comfort of the DHP Cooper Modern Sectional Sofa, which still looks great after years of use. Although white glove delivery isn’t available, assembly was straightforward, and the sofa’s comfort and style exceeded expectations given its price. 

Top Picks from Walmart:

• DHP Cooper Modern Sectional Sofa

Shipping Cost: Varies by location and seller | Return Policy: 90 days; marketplace sellers may differ | Delivery Options: Varies

For those passionate about mid-century decor, Joybird is the go-to retailer for retro-inspired furniture. Their designs draw inspiration from iconic mid-century figures like Frank Lloyd Wright and Eero Saarinen, reflected in their sofas’ geometric lines, angled legs, and tufted upholstery. 

Joybird sofas are highly customizable, offering various sizes and up to 74 fabric options for most designs. Choices include vintage-inspired materials like olive green velvet, turquoise chenille, and rust mohair. 

Our experience with Joybird was exceptional. The white glove delivery team navigated three narrow flights of stairs to deliver and assemble the Briar Sleeper Sectional without any damage. During testing, we found the sofa easy to convert from couch to bed and comfortable in both configurations. The pet-resistant fabric endured muddy paw prints from our dog, and the cushions retained their shape without permanent stains. Even after three years, the sofa remains in excellent condition.

Top Picks from Joybird:

• Briar Sleeper Sectional

Shipping Cost: $49 for curbside delivery; in-home delivery costs vary by location | Return Policy: 90 days | Delivery Options: Curbside or in-home delivery

Burrow specializes in modular furniture that adapts to your lifestyle. Their sofas are designed for easy, tool-free assembly and reconfiguration, allowing you to add seats or change layouts as your needs evolve. Built for convenience and durability, these sofas are ideal for renters who are often on the move.

Burrow draws inspiration from American mid-century modernism and Scandinavian minimalism. We tested the Block Nomad Sofa, which was lightweight yet comfortable, ideal for apartments, playrooms, or guest rooms. Its structured design makes it better for sitting than lounging, and the firm cushions contribute to its durability, showing no wear after a year of use.

The website was user-friendly, offering extensive customization options without being overwhelming. Each sofa component arrived in clearly labeled boxes, simplifying assembly. We appreciated the ability to select our preferred fabric, leg material, and arm shape, ensuring the sofa matched our style.

Top Picks from Burrow:

• Nomad Fabric Sofa

Shipping Cost: Free | Return Policy: 30 days | Delivery Options: Ground shipping

Founded in 2010, Apt2B has built a reputation for offering affordable, made-to-order sofas, sectionals, and sleepers. With over 60 fabric choices and numerous styles, the customization possibilities are vast. While made-to-order sofas are typically ready in two to seven weeks, Apt2B also offers ready-to-ship options for those needing quicker delivery. 

During testing, all Apt2B sofas, including the Brentwood Sectional and Tuxedo 2-Piece Sleeper Sectional, proved durable and exceptionally comfortable (though the Brentwood Sectional softened slightly over time). Spills from kids and pets cleaned up easily, and the sofas maintained their new appearance for months. The Tuxedo Sleeper Sectional stood out for its durability, showing no signs of wear despite heavy use. While the prices are higher, the investment is worthwhile for homes with kids and pets.

Additionally, the online ordering and customization process was seamless, making it worth the extra cost to have a sofa tailored to your home. 

Top Picks from Apt2B:

• Brentwood Sectional
• Tuxedo 2-Piece Sleeper Sectional

Shipping Cost: Free; $149 for white glove delivery | Return Policy: 100 days | Delivery Options: Standard or white glove delivery

Arhaus was founded with a commitment to creating durable, heirloom-quality furniture, emphasizing sustainable practices. The brand prioritizes the use of reclaimed, sustainably sourced, and recycled materials.

Arhaus combines contemporary and traditional styles, offering customizable options like fabric, width, and depth for each design. To match existing decor, you can choose from a variety of neutral upholstery options, including white bouclé and camel leather. 

We tested two sofas from Arhaus’s Kipton collection, both of which were exceptionally comfortable and easy to maintain. The stain-resistant fabrics performed as promised, and the solid wood frames ensure long-lasting durability. While the prices are high, Arhaus has numerous retail locations nationwide, allowing you to confirm your choice fits your space—though custom orders are non-refundable.

Top Picks from Arhaus:

• Kipton 2-Piece Sectional

Shipping Cost: $299-$599 | Return Policy: 14 days for stock orders; custom orders are non-refundable | Delivery Options: White glove, package carrier

For those seeking affordable yet high-quality furniture, Rooms To Go is an excellent choice. As one of the largest furniture retailers in the U.S., it provides a wide range of sofa styles, though its stores are primarily located in the South. Note that the designs lean traditional, which may not appeal to everyone.

While Rooms To Go offers great value and variety, there are a few downsides. The two-day return policy leaves little time to decide if the sofa fits your space. Additionally, we experienced a delivery mix-up, and rescheduling was challenging. Despite this, the couch we purchased was comfortable, and we still recommend Rooms To Go for its affordability. 

Top Picks from Rooms To Go:

• Drew & Jonathan Parkside Heights Leather Dual Power Reclining Sofa
• Claremont Heights Sofa

Shipping Cost: Varies by location | Return Policy: 48 hours | Delivery Options: Varies

Rove Concepts offers a membership program packed with perks, ideal for those furnishing an entire room or home. For $200 annually, members enjoy 30% off sitewide, 10% back in vouchers, a dedicated concierge for order management, and early access to sales and new releases.

Members enjoy significant savings on sofas, making even high-end designs more affordable. However, even without a membership (which is best for bulk purchases), the brand’s contemporary, customizable sofas are worth the investment. 

Our experience with delivery was exceptional: Rove Concepts coordinated via text, arrived punctually, and positioned the sofa precisely as requested. The Finley Sectional and Arya Loveseat we tested offered a perfect blend of comfort and support, avoiding the sinking feeling of overly soft cushions. 

Top Picks from Rove Concepts:

• Finley Sectional
• Arya Loveseat

Shipping Cost: $329–$719; orders over $5,000 incur a $170 fee plus 11% of the order value | Return Policy: 30 days; custom orders are non-refundable | Delivery Options: Standard or white glove delivery

This renowned department store offers over 500 furniture pieces online and in-store, spanning various price points, styles, and sofa types. Macy’s excels in customer service—after purchasing the Jollene 2-Piece Fabric Sectional, we were impressed by the helpful and knowledgeable staff. 

The white glove delivery process was seamless, with real-time updates and the sofa arriving in perfect condition. However, Macy’s has a short return window, so ensure you’re certain about your purchase before ordering.

Top Picks from Macy’s:

• Jollene 2-Piece Fabric Sectional

Shipping Cost: $75-$299 | Return Policy: 30 days | Delivery Options: White glove, room of choice, or inside door delivery

Our Testing Process

To compile these recommendations, we surveyed our team about couches they’ve purchased from various retailers. From 46 responses, we gathered detailed insights on 16 retailers. We also personally tested many sofas, assessing their comfort and durability over a year of use.

After researching and testing multiple options, we considered factors like style variety, product details, shopping support, delivery timelines, delivery services, customization, and return policies. We evaluated each retailer based on quality, value, and user experience. 

How to Shop for Couches Like a Pro

Product Variety

Product variety is crucial when selecting a couch retailer. “A sofa is a significant investment, so choose a style that will remain appealing over time,” Vroom advises. “Before following the latest trend, consider if you’ll still love the design in a decade. It doesn’t have to be plain, but it should be timeless.”

Big-box stores typically offer the widest selection, but if you know your style, a smaller direct-to-consumer retailer with a curated collection can simplify your search. For a highly specific vision, opt for a retailer that provides customization options.

Price Range

While luxurious, custom-made sofas can be costly, their long-term value, durability, and quality often justify the expense. If you’re on a tight budget, there are still many affordable options—start with reasonably priced retailers to avoid falling for a sofa beyond your budget.

Vroom notes that a higher price doesn’t always mean better quality. “Evaluate the couch’s construction to determine if the price is justified,” she explains. “Sometimes you’re paying for the brand’s reputation. Research whether the craftsmanship matches other manufacturers or if you’re simply paying for the name.” Generally, Vroom suggests budgeting $2,000 to $4,000 for a big-box retailer sofa. Prices below that range may indicate compromises in construction.

Materials

Retailers offer sofas in various durable and low-maintenance materials. For instance, polyester and nylon are affordable, sturdy, and easy to clean. However, cheaper materials may lack the luxurious appearance of high-end options. 

Premium sofa retailers often use high-thread-count natural fabrics like cotton or linen, which resist pilling but are harder to clean. Some brands blend natural and synthetic fabrics to enhance durability and ease of maintenance. For a leather sofa, investing in genuine leather is worthwhile—it lasts decades and withstands heavy use, unlike faux leather, which deteriorates quickly.

When selecting a sofa, Nozawa suggests testing upholstery materials by rubbing them against your wrist or forearm to ensure they aren’t too scratchy. This method gives a better sense of how the fabric will feel against your skin, especially your legs.

Another key consideration is whether you have pets. Nozawa notes that cats tend to avoid velvet but are drawn to woven fabrics, even if well-behaved. Patterned fabrics are better at concealing pet hair and stains, while leather is easier to clean if spills are addressed promptly. Performance fabrics or stain-resistant treatments are also excellent options.

Beyond upholstery, the sofa frame material is crucial for durability. Kiln-dried or solid wood frames are the most durable but come at a higher cost. Cheaper options often use Medium Density Fibreboard (MDF) or plastic, which lack strength. Metal frames offer a modern, durable, and affordable alternative.

Fill

The fill material is as important as the upholstery, as it’s often the first part to wear out. Inexpensive sofas may use low-density foam, which can feel stiff and uncomfortable. More durable and supportive options include memory foam, high-density foam, latex, down, and synthetic fibers. If cushions sag over time, refilling them can extend the sofa’s lifespan. Sagging when you sit is a sign the couch may not last long.

Shipping and Delivery

Shipping and delivery costs vary significantly by retailer, so review the details carefully before making a purchase. Free shipping is ideal, especially for those on a budget. For added convenience, some retailers offer white glove delivery and assembly, simplifying the setup process.

Vroom always opts for white glove delivery. “Otherwise, disposing of packing materials can be a hassle, especially in apartments or condos,” she explains.

Shipping delays for furniture are common, so check the estimated delivery time if you’re on a tight schedule. Backorders can lead to months-long waits, leaving you without seating. However, settling for a ready-to-ship option may not always meet your design preferences. 

Return Policy and Warranty

Always review the return policy before choosing a retailer, as the timeframe, shipping costs, and restocking fees can differ significantly. Most retailers have a specific window after delivery for returns. Outside this period, returns may be denied or incur extra charges. 

Warranty is another critical factor. If the sofa arrives undamaged but fails to meet expectations or breaks easily, a warranty can offer return or refund options. 

Questions You Might Ask 

What’s the best time of year to buy a couch?

If you find your ideal sofa, don’t wait for a sale—it might sell out or be discontinued before then. 

If you’re aiming to save, summer and winter often feature the best deals around holidays like Labor Day, the 4th of July, and Christmas. Memorial Day is particularly ideal for shopping, especially for outdoor furniture, as Nozawa explains: “Retailers offer sales and begin liquidating summer stock, giving you a chance to secure outdoor seating and enjoy it all summer.” 

Additionally, note when retailers introduce new collections—typically in early spring and fall. This often leads to sales in late summer and winter to clear out inventory. 

How long should a couch last?

“Ideally, a sofa should last at least 10 years,” Nozawa says. “But its lifespan depends on usage and care.” If you have pets or active kids, your sofa may wear out faster. 

Material quality also affects durability—sofas with MDF frames are more prone to damage. Conversely, even high-end sofas can deteriorate quickly with heavy use. Nozawa has seen sofas in excellent condition after 15 years, while others, like a luxury Italian sofa, showed significant wear after just two years.

How can you tell if a sofa is good quality?

The materials and construction of a sofa reveal its quality. “Don’t just focus on aesthetics,” Vroom advises. “Look for high-resiliency foam in the cushions and kiln-dried hardwood frames instead of particle board. These features enhance durability and protect your investment over time.” 

Premium sofas often use natural fibers like cotton or linen for upholstery, sometimes blended with synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon for easier maintenance. Additionally, inspect the frame—kiln-dried wood is ideal, but solid hardwoods or metal are also reliable choices. 

Next, assess the sofa’s assembly. High-quality pieces feature joints that are glued, screwed, or stapled with corner blocking for added stability. For seating support, eight-way hand-tied spring systems offer superior durability, though they are labor-intensive and costly. Sinuous springs are a more affordable but less durable alternative. Avoid web suspension, as it’s the least durable option. 

Finally, consider the cushion fill. High-quality sofas typically use high-resiliency foam for firm, long-lasting support. For a softer feel, down cushions are an option, though they are harder to clean and not hypoallergenic.

Beyond construction, Nozawa offers valuable advice for identifying quality sofas online. “You can spot lower quality in the details of product photos,” she explains. “For instance, one affordable brand’s sofas had crooked stitching and uneven welting in their photos. To me, that’s a red flag—if the model unit has sewing issues, the shipped units likely do too.” 

She also notes that sofas made before the 1970s are generally better crafted than today’s mass-produced pieces. “Lower quality sofas are often lightweight due to the framing materials used,” she adds.

Take Our Word for It

This article was written by Morgan Goldberg, a Mytour contributor with seven years of experience in interior design, food, and travel writing. It was updated by Jamie Fischer, a Mytour writer, and Jen Woo, a design, lifestyle, and culture writer with over a decade of experience.

To create this guide, we spent hours researching the best places to buy a couch and gathered feedback from testers on their shopping experiences. They provided detailed insights into each retailer’s sofa selection, delivery process, and quality, which we used to compile this list. We also consulted interior designers Amy Vroom of The Residency Bureau and Noz Nozawa of Noz Design for expert recommendations and shopping tips.