The Best Couches We've Ever Tested
A couch is one of the largest pieces of furniture in your home and perhaps one of the most used: It’s destined to be the setting for sleepovers, movie nights, deep conversations, and even work meetings. While it’s tempting to opt for the trendy couch that’s making its way around social media, it’s important to remember to choose a piece that will be a lasting investment.
To find the best couches, we tested 31 couches at home, evaluating them based on comfort, quality, durability, and value. For expert advice on what to look for when shopping for a couch, we consulted Stephen Bowen, senior furniture designer at Burrow, and interior designers Jade McNeil and Audrey Scheck.
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This customizable sofa strikes the perfect balance between softness and support.
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The arms aren’t very well padded.
This two-cushion sofa scored fives across the board in our testing, earning it the top spot as our favorite couch. We found the sofa’s feel so perfect that we would even go as far as to consider it the Goldilocks of couches—not too firm, not too soft, but just right. The cushions somehow struck a balance between firm and cloud-like, making them suitable for both napping and sitting upright. We appreciate that this pick is cushiony without being soft to the point that it would make your back ache. The armrests aren’t very well padded, though.
In addition to its comfort, this couch also boasts impressive durability. After one year of use, we’ve noticed no loose threads, snags, or pilling whatsoever. The couch endured cat pee with no stench or stains, and pet hair didn’t stick to it, either. Plus, the cushions maintained their buoyancy and support. This pick comes in seven sizes, ranging from a 65-inch loveseat to a 107-inch modular sofa, accommodating rooms of any dimension. The variety of upholstery options makes this couch especially versatile. The only aspect that’s not customizable is the fill, as the couch offers only one option (down).
Upholstery: 225 options, including performance, velvet, chenille, boucle, and microfiber | Seat Fill: Down | Frame: Hardwood | Dimensions: 65–108 by 38–43 by 34 inches | Seat Depth: 22 inches
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![Room & Board Metro Sofa in a living room]()
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PHOTO: Wade Review / Donna Freydkin
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![Close-up of Room & Board Metro Sofa with a blanket and pillows]()
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PHOTO: Wade Review / Donna Freydkin
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