We Tested Sofas for Compact Living: Here Are Our Top 3 Picks

Top Sectional Choice

After careful consideration, I opted for the Mercer 41 Rhylin Reversible Upholstered Sectional Sofa with Chaise for my apartment, and I have absolutely no complaints. The delivery was so efficient that the sofa arrived in under 24 hours. While my roommate and I did have to assemble it ourselves (mostly her), the process was straightforward, and all the necessary tools were included and clearly labeled. We were also grateful that the pieces came in vacuum-sealed bags, which made it easier to bring them into our apartment. 

In terms of aesthetics, this couch blew me away. The plush, rounded armrests are not only stylish but also make for a comfy spot to rest my head. The elevated legs add a contemporary touch to my living room. I’m also in love with the chenille fabric, which feels so soft and cozy to the touch. The back cushions offer just the right amount of support for relaxed lounging and binge-watching my favorite shows. The chaise is definitely the highlight. Although I initially thought I would have to forgo one, I was thrilled to discover that this one fit perfectly. 

After seven months of use, the sofa shows no signs of wear. My friends always compliment how comfortable it is when they visit, and those who’ve slept on it rave about it too. 

Dimensions: 82.7 x 51.2 x 34.3 inches | Upholstery: Chenille | Seat Fill: Foam | Seat Depth: 27.5 inches

Top Standard Choice

If you’re looking for a more traditional sofa, the Room & Board Metro Sofa is undoubtedly the best couch we’ve tested. What truly sets it apart is its customizability. With seven size options—from a 65-inch loveseat to a 107-inch modular sofa—and 225 fabric choices, you can easily create the perfect fit for your space and style.

During testing, we found the firmness level to be spot on—not too firm, not too soft. With the perfect amount of padding, it was solid enough for sitting up straight but still plush enough for lounging or reclining. While we would have liked the armrests to be a little softer, it certainly wasn’t a dealbreaker.

The assembly was a breeze; the delivery team swiftly unboxed, unpacked, and assembled the sofa. Although it’s on the pricier side, it’s definitely worth every cent. Even after a year of daily use, it looks as pristine as it did on day one. It has withstood shedding pet hair and numerous cat accidents without showing any signs of damage, and the cushions remain just as supportive and plush as when we first got it.

Dimensions: 65–108 by 38–43 by 34 inches | Upholstery: 225 fabric choices, such as performance, velvet, chenille, boucle, and microfiber | Seat Fill: Down | Seat Depth: 22 inches

Top Pick for Sleepers

A sleeper sofa is an excellent choice for those in compact spaces, offering both the functionality of a sofa and a guest bed without the need for extra furniture. Our top pick, the Joybird Briar Sleeper Sofa, is ideal for apartment living or any smaller setting.

It comes in two sizes: the standard 79-inch model and a smaller 52.5-inch chair-style version, making it versatile for any space. You can also select from 79 different upholstery styles and choose between two mattress options: standard foam or Tempur-response memory foam. We tried the foam version, and it was surprisingly comfortable—so much so that we ended up taking a nap on it. While the couch was a bit firm at first, it became softer over time. That said, we would have preferred a softer butt cushion.

We were also impressed with its durability. After testing the pet-proof fabric, it held up remarkably well, even after our dog jumped on it with muddy paws. A year later, it still looks brand new. With its sturdy construction and stain-resistant fabric, we consider it an especially solid choice for homes with pets or young children.

Dimensions: 79 x 36 x 35 inches or 52.5 x 36 x 37 inches | Upholstery: 79 options, including performance fabric, velvet, chenille, woven, bouclé, and basketweave | Seat Fill: Foam or memory foam | Seat Depth: 23 inches

Our Testing Methodology

To identify the top sofas for small spaces, we tested 37 couches in our homes, evaluating them on assembly ease, comfort, durability, quality, and value. Our first step was to review the delivery and setup process, tracking how long it took from beginning to end and how simple it was.

Throughout testing, we put the couch through all sorts of activities—sitting, napping, and hosting multiple people, pets, and children. As we used it, we observed its durability, comfort, and how the softness or firmness changed. We also looked at the fabric’s feel and durability, noting any changes in shape, firmness, color fading, or any back or neck pain we experienced. When spills or stains happened, we evaluated the cleaning methods we used and how well they worked.

For long-term insights, we evaluated the couches after using them for a full year. We lived with the sofas for over a year to see how they stood the test of time. In addition to the couches we tested, I also included my own couch, which I’ve had for seven months and counting.

Tips for Shopping for Sofas in Small Spaces

Dimensions

The first step in selecting a sofa is measuring your space—no matter how stylish a sofa is, it’s of no use if it doesn’t fit. While your initial measurement can be a helpful guide, you want to avoid overfilling the room. Instead, follow the 2:3 rule, meaning the sofa should occupy about two-thirds of the room's space. Shaffer recommends allowing room to move around your existing furniture and suggests a narrower sofa, around 60 to 70 inches wide.

Upholstery & Cushioning

Sofas come in a wide range of upholstery options, including leather, velvet, twill, cotton, linen, and more. “Since your sofa will be used frequently with limited seating space, it’s wise to choose more durable fabrics like tweed and polyester blends,” advises Wiss.

Fortunately, two of the sofas on our list, the Room & Board Metro and the Joybird Briar Sleeper Sofa, offer customization options with various fabrics and textures—the Room & Board Metro even has more than 200 choices. If you have kids or pets, consider performance fabrics and easy-to-clean materials, as they are less likely to show damage over time.

In addition to the upholstery, the type of fill is another key factor to consider. Most sofas feature either foam or feather filling, with some offering both options. Foam is generally firmer and maintains its shape better, while feathers or down are softer but may lose their fluffiness over time. The type of fill becomes especially important in sleeper sofas, as guests often lie on them for extended periods. The Joybird Briar Sleeper Sofa offers a choice between standard foam or memory foam.

Commonly Asked Questions

What sofas can make a small room appear larger?

To make a room feel more spacious, Shaffer recommends choosing a light-colored fabric—such as cream, beige, or light gray—which will reflect light and create a more open, airy feel. He also suggests opting for sofas with raised legs or a skirt that appears to float above the ground.

What is the cost of a smaller couch?

The price of a compact couch or sofa is influenced by several factors, such as the brand, material, size, and features. Shaffer points out that basic futons and two-seaters can be found for as little as $300 to $500. If you're after a more comfortable and higher-quality option, prices generally range from $500 to $1,000. For a more luxurious or customizable sofa, expect to pay over $1,000.

Is a sofa better than a sectional for a small living room?

While you may think of sectionals as ideal for larger rooms, smaller versions can fit various layouts. “Small sectionals can create a sense of space by offering more seating while removing the need for an ottoman,” explains Wiss. “A small coffee table is the perfect complement to complete the sectional.”

If you're unsure between a loveseat and a sectional, Wiss recommends a modular sofa. These sofas consist of individual pieces, making it simple to adjust, add, or replace sections without needing to purchase an entirely new sofa.

Trust Our Expertise

This article was authored by Jamie Fischer, a writer for Mytour. After settling into her own apartment in March 2024, she gained firsthand knowledge of the process of shopping for a compact sofa. To create our list, we have tested 37 different couches so far, evaluating them based on factors such as ease of assembly, comfort, durability, quality, and value. To provide additional insights, we consulted with Devin Shaffer, the lead interior designer at Decorilla, and Amanda Wiss, the founder of the NYC-based home staging company Urban Staging.