The 13 Best Sectional Sofas, According to Months of Testing
Updated: Apr. 03, 2024
Our shopping editors tested the best sectional sofas on the market to bring you their favorites with all the information you need to know before you buy.
Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. We may earn a commission from your purchases.
Whether you’re moving into a new apartment or your first home, you’ll probably need some furniture. One of the staple furniture pieces you can’t live without is a sofa. I mean, where else are you going to read, watch Netflix, hangout with friends or even WFH?
Often, the style and color of sofa you want will need to be shipped to you, even if you pick it out in store. More than that, there are endless furniture options online that offer with the same perks of in-store shopping like free shipping, trial periods, product warranties and even financing. Still, you might be a little weary of buying a couch online before testing it. That’s where we come in!
Our expert shopping editors tested a bevy of sectional sofas to give you the full scoop on the 13 best sectional sofas available right now online. They had them shipped to their own homes, assembled them when necessary and tested them for months. So, you don’t have to buy a sectional sofa with limited info. Keep reading to see what our editors had to say.
Nicole Doster/Family Handyman
Best Overall
Medley Dekayess Bumper Sectional in Latex + Wool
Medley is a US-based custom-design furniture company that pays attention to every detail, from the ordering process to construction and materials to delivery. When searching for a sectional that could best fit her space, Content Director Nicole Doster found that Medley had over 20 types of sectionals to choose from—ranging from compact corner sectionals to gigantic U-shaped couches. “I chose the Dekayess Bumper Sectional for its casual, but modern design,” Nicole says. “Medley allows you to customize almost every material on the couch—from filling to fabric to color to leg shape and material.”
What makes Medley unique (and our top choice) is their attention to detail in their craftsmanship. “For my couch’s filling, for example, I opted for their natural latex foam and wool, which is touted as their most sustainable and eco-friendly options, certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and the Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS),” Nicole adds. “As much of the new furniture on the market are made with toxic materials, it made me feel good that I was bringing something cleaner and safer into my home.”
Nicole’s couch was just over $6,800 with shipping and taxes, which we consider on the mid-to-high end of the price spectrum, though worth it for a custom design. (Monthly financing is available through Affirm.) Medley is a thoughtful company, and that is evident through their online ordering process. The site even has AR functionality that allows you to virtually view the couch in your space using your smartphone camera. Since the couches are made to order, the lead time was longer than couches you’d find at a big box store. The couch we tested took a little under 60 days to arrive.
“We’ve had pricey couches from Restoration Hardware, budget-friendly from IKEA—and even a few vintage brands found on Facebook Marketplace—and when I tell you that this seems like the sturdiest, most well-designed couch, I mean it,” Nicole says.
Medley provides a ‘white glove’ delivery through a third-party company. The only thing Nicole needed to ensure was that there was a space open for the sectional. The sectional she ordered had just two parts, which the delivery personnel connected in a matter of minutes. The deliverers were courteous and quick—and even wore booties over their work shoes when entering our house to protect the flooring.
“With a durable frame and no stitch out of place, it feels like how furniture is supposed to be made vs. slapped together in a big box store,” Nicole adds. “The natural latex cushion gave a level of comfort and structured support that has kept its shape, while the wool topper gives it a soft extra padding. While I don’t feel like I’m necessarily sinking into the couch, it’s comfortable and feels like something that can withstand the rough-and-tumble of our dog when he has the zoomies or a visit from our four young nieces, who notoriously like to climb and jump on everything.”
Pros
- Durable craftsmanship that’s made to last
- Customizable design
- Uses sustainable and natural materials
- Seamless white-glove delivery; no assembly required
- Easy to clean
- Made in the USA
- 5-year warranty on fabric and 10-year warranty on filling
- Frame has lifetime coverage
Cons
- Longer lead time as couches are made to order
Caroline Lubinsky/Family Handyman
Best Fabric Selection
Benchmade Modern Laguna Sectional
“I’ll be the first to admit that I didn’t think it was possible to be in love with a sectional. Boy, was I wrong,” Senior Shopping Editor Caroline Lubinsky says. “The Benchmade Modern Laguna Sectional is the stuff of dreams.” Benchmade Modern describes this sectional as ‘modern, yet casual,’ and we think that sums it up perfectly. It’s elegant without being stuffy, but the high-quality look and feel ooze luxury. And the process of choosing your customizations couldn’t be easier. While we love this sectional for its multitude of fabric and color options, it was a close runner-up to our ‘Best Overall’ pick above.
We recommend getting the free swatches of material before you make your final decision on which fabric and color you select. Benchmade Modern will send you a box brimming with beautiful squares of fabric, and each piece tells you the material, cleaning directions, fabric content, and rub count. “I pondered over each scrap of fabric before landing on the Eileen Uniform velvet,” Caroline says. For reference, you can choose between three types of materials: Luxe fabric/velvet, performance or leather. The performance fabrics are said to wear the best, but you can choose whatever suits your lifestyle and design interests.
“The cushions are a combination of foam and fiber and are comfy yet supportive. You won’t sink into a pillow abyss when you’re on this couch, but it isn’t stiff, either. It’s the Goldilocks of couches, if you will,” Caroline explains. “The last selection you’ll make in the customization process is for the legs. I went with a stained walnut to match my mid-century modern furniture, but there are two additional options: Honey and espresso.”
The sectional was expertly wrapped and arrived at Caroline’s door without a single thread loose or leg nicked. “To say I was excited to receive this couch is an understatement, but my excitement only grew after seeing the flawless delivery service,” she adds. “Oh, and did I mention it only takes the brand a few weeks to deliver your custom, USA-made sectional? Swoon.”
Caroline has been an expert product tester and reviewer for years, and this was one of the few times she’s ever had trouble thinking of cons for a product. “That’s how good it is. If you have an extra $5,000-$7,000 earmarked for a sectional, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better one on the market,” she says.
Benchmade Modern boasts a 100-day trial period, financing via Affirm and even returns on made-to-order purchases. If you make a return within 14 days of delivery, you’ll receive a full refund less the shipping fee. For 100-day returns, there is an additional 10% return processing fee.
Pros
- High quality construction
- Easy to clean
- Comfortable and supportive
- Packaged extremely well
- Made in the USA
- Plenty of fabrics to choose from
- 100-day trial
- Quick shipping
- Seamless delivery service
- Hardwood frame
Cons
- Pricey
Mary Henn/Family Handyman
Best Budget
Best Choice Products Upholstered Sectional Sofa
The Best Choice Products Sectional is a super affordable, small sectional perfect for bedrooms, office areas and other small spaces in your home. Even better, it’s available on Amazon, so you can have it almost immediately—in two large boxes at your door. “That’s how mine arrived (well, it was dropped off in front of our garage, but you get the point),” Shopping Editor Mary Henn says. “The two boxes were heavy, but with some help I got them upstairs to the guest bedroom where I assembled the small sofa.”
The cushions are vacuum sealed, so they take a few days to puff up and take their intended shape. “I also immediately noticed a chemical-like smell, which lingered for weeks,” Mary adds. “Vacuuming the sofa and opening a window helped the smell begin to fade.” Assembly is relatively quick and easy, and it can be done by one person alone. You just have to align a few brackets and screw some pieces together. We love that the cushions Velcro to the base so that they don’t slide around or fall off.
Once assembled, the sofa is 78 inches long, 34 inches tall and 52 inches deep. The seats are 24 inches deep and 18 inches tall. Overall, it’s a small but comfortable sofa, great for a reading nook in a bedroom or home office. The Best Choice Products Sectional comes in eight different colors. “I opted for the color ‘natural,’ which is a light tan that’ll match just about anything,” Mary says. “The fabric is standard—it’s not overly soft, but it’s a comfortable linen blend. The frame of the couch is wooden, and the cushions aren’t thick, but they are the right size for the small couch.”
The space-saving couch is a modern, L-shaped sectional that holds about two to three people at a time. The ottoman is reversible, which is super convenient when it comes to arranging it to fit your own space. You can also remove the ottoman all together for a traditional sofa.
For under $400, we think this sectional is a great budget option for small spaces. Plus, you can finance it interest-free with an Amazon Visa, and it’s eligible for a return, refund or replacement within 30 days of purchase. You can also add a protection plan via Amazon at an additional cost.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Space-saving design
- 8 color options
- Cushions Velcro in place
- Reversable ottoman
- Quick, easy assembly, no tools needed
Cons
- Only holds 2-3 people
- Off-gassing occurs for a few weeks
Katie Bandurski/Family Handyman
Best Customizable
Lovesac Sactionals
“I’m a big proponent of forever furniture,” says Senior Shopping Editor, Katie Bandurski. “Meaning—I want to buy quality products that will last a lifetime. And after ordering, building and testing a Lovesac Sactional, I’m confident this couch fits the bill.”
So, what makes Sactionals special? First, they’re entirely modular. Meaning every single piece—from the seats to the sides—snaps together in an endless array of configurations. Katie tested five standard seats and one deep storage seat, plus five standard sides, two angled sides and one deep side. While she chose a classic chaise sectional and one-armed sofa arrangement for her living room, the options are truly endless. In the future, Katie can align a massive L-shaped sectional or even push the seats together into a guest bed.
Even more impressive? Every inch of fabric is removable—and thus machine washable. Wine stains, muddy paw prints and day-to-day dirt banish with ease. “I’ll admit—I always loved the idea of a lightly-colored couch. But the thought of accidental spills leaving a huge stain turned me off,” Katie says. “But with the Sactional, I can relax knowing it’s easy to simply remove the cover and toss in the wash when I need a refresh. Plus, if I ever move or redecorate, I can just order new covers for a fresh style rather than buying an entire new couch.”
One downside is, of course, the cost. There’s no denying a Sactional is pricey. But the good news is you can add to your setup over time. You can order as few as two seats and four sides for a mini loveseat, then order additional pieces as space and budget allows.
Keep in mind, too, that Sactionals require significant assembly. The process isn’t difficult, but it is time consuming. Katie’s couch arrived in over 20 boxes and took over six hours to assemble. “At least I didn’t have to worry if the couch would fit through the doorframe, though!” Katie quips. “The boxes ensure this couch fits even in hard-to-access spaces like a basement or upstairs media room.”
Lovesac has a “designed for life” philosophy, so they guarantee that Sactionals hard inserts can last a lifetime. If they don’t, the brand replaces them for free. Additionally, the framing and hardware pieces of the Sactionals come with a lifetime warranty, too. Cushions, pillows and covers come with a 3-year warranty. Lovesac also offers a 60-day home trial period with a full refund if you’re not satisfied, which is one of the best return policies for furniture we’ve seen!
Pros
- Entirely modular; sides and seats can arrange in endless configurations
- High-quality performance fabric stands up to daily wear
- Machine washable covers
- Recyclable packaging
- Ability to add additional seats or sides at any time
- Add-on accessories, like tray tables and sound systems, available
- Piece-meal assembly benefits hard-to-access rooms
Cons
- Pricey
- Requires assembly, while not difficult it is time consuming
Cher Checchio/Family Handyman
Best Cloud Couch Dupe
7th Avenue Modular Chaise Sectional
After four years, it was time for Senior Shopping Editor Cher Checchio to upgrade her old sectional with one that would better handle her toddler and dog. “I knew I wanted a cloud couch, or at least a cloud couch dupe, but I also wanted a sectional that would fit my family and space,” Cher says. “The 7th Avenue 4-Seat Chaise Modular Sectional did just that and more.”
7th Avenue’s no-fuss, user-friendly website made it easy to find modular sectional sofas that ranged from 3-seat to 9-seat configurations. The smallest configuration starts at around $3,000, while the largest configuration starts at about $10,000. “I opted for the 4-seater with an ottoman in extra deep because the size (132 inches by 85 inches by 24 inches) perfectly complemented my living space,” Cher says. “With the option to choose from six different colors in performance fabrics, I chose the ever-popular natural white with performance texture weave.”
Cher’s cloud-like sectional sofa arrived four weeks after purchasing—and in a whopping 17 boxes that she and her husband were able to assemble in a couple of hours with the help of a video tutorial. “Two of my favorite features of the 7th Avenue sectional are the removable covers and down-alternative cushions,” Cher explains. “The water-repellent and stain-resistant fabric make the covers easy to clean with a wet paper towel, but it’s also convenient to unzip each one—including the base, arms and backs—and wash them in the washing machine. The down-alternative cushions are a lifesaver, too.”
The down-alternative cushions are hypoallergenic, vegan and cruelty-free. Plus, our testing has proven that they maintain their shape without the need to fluff. “Also, I love that the detached ottoman can sit on either end of the sofa, and the extra-deep cushions are so cozy,” Cher adds.
On top of the sustainable fabric of the cushions, the sofa frame is solid hardwood, and the legs are reinforced steel. Due to this overall durability, Cher can expect this sectional sofa to last for years, which is a definite plus considering the price point. However, 12-, 24- and 36-month financing options are available for those wanting to splurge (but not all at once). Additionally, 7th Avenue offers a limited lifetime warranty that includes a full warranty on the construction (frame, wood, springs and hardware) and manufacturer defects on the cushions and fabrics. There’s no warranty for wear and tear. They also offer free returns of the full merchandise value—minus shipping and assembly—within 10 days of delivery.
“But after sitting on this cloud couch, I don’t think you’d ever consider returning it. The stain-resistant technology is so kid- and pet-friendly that my whole family lounges comfortably on this sectional without a worry,” Cher says.
Pros
- Water-repellent and stain-resistant PFAS-free coating technology
- Removable and washable covers
- Modular design allows for various sofa arrangements
- Extra-deep option for added space and comfort
- Option for medium-firm or medium-soft back cushion with complimentary fill packets included
- Hypoallergenic, vegan and cruelty-free down alternative cushions
- Solid, hardwood frame and reinforced steel legs
- Lifetime durability of 10 years or more
Cons
- Less color options compared to other brands
- Assembly required
- Low back design might not be ideal for some
Emily Way/Family Handyman
Most Comfortable
Albany Park Kova Pit Sectional with Storage Ottoman
“The Kova Pit Sectional is dangerously comfortable and boasts an ocean-like vastness,” says Shopping Editor Emily Way, who tested this cozy pick. “Despite its inviting softness, the velvet material still holds up well against cat claws and pet fur. Personally, I’d rather snuggle up on the supportive-yet-sinkable cushions than my luxury mattress! Overall, the Kova Pit is the best couch I’ve ever sat on—no exaggeration.”
The deep, cozy Kova was made for ultimate relaxation. It’s another cloud-like pick that is hypoallergenic and vegan. Plus, it comes in 14 different fabric options, including stain-resistant and performance fabrics. With an overall length of 120 inches, this sofa sectional is good sized. It’s 39 inches tall and 78 inches deep.
Four weeks after ordering the sectional, a freight company called Emily to schedule the delivery. It arrived in seven large boxes in front of her apartment complex. Despite being narrow enough to fit in a doorframe, the boxes are heavy. “Single folks may want to hire movers or enlist a friend for assistance,” Emily adds.
Assembly is straightforward. Simply slide the backrests into place using a set of metal tracks on the base. The arms of the corner pieces were the trickiest part since they must be slotted into place at an angle. “It took me around an hour and a half to assemble it myself. One admirable feature of the Kova Pit is its flexible configuration. I set up mine in a long L-shape that best fits my small apartment,” Emily says.
Emily had a few friends over shortly after putting the Kova Pit in her living room, and they’re actually in the process of buying one now because they loved staying on it so much.
Albany Park has a 30-day return window, and while they do offer free shipping, there is a return shipping fee equal to 10% of what you paid. Without the original packaging intact, that fee bumps up to 20%, but the fee is always capped at $200. If you receive a defective or damaged sofa, it’s covered by the brand’s warranty and not subject to any return fees.
Pros
- Fits up to seven adults (with room to spare!)
- Configurable seat arrangement
- Cushions are a good balance between cozy and firm
- Comes in a variety of fabrics, including stain-resistant and performance options
- Removable, machine-washable cushion covers
- Simple assembly
- 30-Day home trial
- Free shipping
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Pricey
- Boxes are large and heavy
- Assembly can be tricky for corner pieces, but Albany Park offers helpful videos
Caitlyn Fitzpatrick/Family Handyman
Best Modular
Cozey Ciello Collection Sectional
Senior Shopping Editor Caitlyn Fitzpatrick had been hoping to swap the old brown loveseat in her sunroom for something brighter and roomier—and the Cozey Ciello Collection sectional fit the bill. “Was I bit an intimidated when I came home from a coffee run to discover nearly a dozen boxes on my front porch? Yes, yes I was,” Caitlyn jokes. “But as a self-proclaimed un-handyman, I was impressed by how easily I was able to put this together (with the help of my mom).”
There is a range of sizes, colors and configurations to choose from when it comes to the Ciello Collection sectional, but what makes the selection process easier is that the entire sectional is modular, meaning you can rearrange and change it depending on your space—no long-term commitment to one look. There’s also the option to add a chaise or storage ottoman.
“I went with a four-seater in the Sunset Beige color. There are four color options in the performance fabric and two in the chenille,” Caitlyn says. “Even with my 1-year-old daughter, who has claimed the sunroom as her playroom, I haven’t had to wash or spot clean the sofa. However, when that time comes (and I know it eventually will), the Cozey Ciello features washable covers that can be tossed in the washing machine.”
“Overall, I find this sectional very comfortable and appreciate the wide cushions that make it easier to host when family stops by,” Caitlyn adds. “My only gripe is that although I love the modular design, the back and side cushions aren’t attached to the sofa, so they can fall or need readjusting.”
Cozey offers free shipping, flexible financing, a five-year warranty and a 30-day trial period, which we love. So, you can shop this modular sectional sofa without worry that you’ll be stuck with a sofa you don’t like.
Pros
- Completely modular
- Machine-washable covers
- Roomy seat cushions
- Easy tool-free assembly
- 30-day trial period
- Free shipping
Cons
- Back and side cushions aren’t attached
- Limited color options
Andrea Carrillo/Family Handyman
Best Sustainable
Sabai Design The Elevate Sectional
Sabai Design sectionals are designed to be repaired, not replaced. Sustainable materials and slow manufacturing ‘close the loop’ on fast furniture, and almost every piece is repairable or replaceable. (Once you’re ready to part with it, Sabai also offers a resell program.) For these reasons, The Elevate Sectional from Sabai Design is our top pick when it comes to sustainability.
Associate Shopping Editor Andrea Carrillo ordered the Elevate sectional to test it for herself. It comes in recycled velvet or upcycled polyester fabric with 13 color options between the two, it also sits lower to the ground than the brand’s Essential series. “For $2,595, it’s pretty pricey, but the quality and care are amazing,” Andrea says.
“A month or so after ordering, my sectional arrived in seven large boxes. The task at hand seemed daunting, but with the help of my lovely husband, it only took about two hours to assemble,” Andrea says. “I loved that the assembly directions were online, so we didn’t have to flip through a paper manual.”
Andrea chose the off-white oat color, which she notes is relatively easy to clean and maintain, thanks to the upcycled polyester. “I will say that I’m constantly having to pick off hair and fuzz that get trapped in the woven fibers,” Andrea adds. “Still, the sectional is super comfy, bouncy and spacious, and I get compliments on it every time I have guests over!”
Sabai Design offers a one-year warranty and will replace any parts that are broken upon arrival, have manufacturing defects or do not arrive as advertised. They also accept returns and exchanges within 30 days of delivery, but original shipping fees are non-refundable. Additionally, there’s a 10% return and exchange processing fee.
Pros
- Sustainable sectional that’s easy to assemble
- Each component is replaceable for longevity
- All assembly directions (with illustrations) are online
- Available in 13 colors and two fabric types
- Sabai has sustainable and slow manufacturing processes—all sectionals are made-to-order
- All seating is built to withstand 10 years of regular use
Cons
- More expensive than a budget sectional
- Some smell upon opening, but it disappeared within an hour
Stephanie Hope/Family Handyman
Best with Pop-Up Sleeper
Raymour & Flanigan Barry Sectional with Pop-Up Sleeper
Shopping Editor Stephanie Hope and her husband have been on the lookout for the perfect ‘movie night’ couch for years. They wanted something that had enough seating for friends and storage to keep blankets tucked away. Most importantly, they wanted a sectional that extended into a larger couch.
Then they found the Barry 4-piece Sectional from Raymour & Flanigan. “We knew we found our dream couch. This sectional couch comes in two different configurations (left and right side), and with more pieces if your space is bigger. After measuring, we found the 4-piece fit our space perfectly,” Stephanie says.
Ordering the couch on the website is incredibly easy since there isn’t much configuration for this piece. It comes as is, so you simply add it to the cart and get started on the payment process. “The price of this couch is around $3,000, which I would say, for the size, quality and features, is a pretty great deal,” Stephanie says. “It already feels like a couch that will last us many years.”
“Delivery time was super quick. After the order was placed, we received notification that there was a delivery date within the same week of placing the order. There were also a few other dates available, so it’s possible to have your new couch within a week or two depending on your own timeline,” Stephanie adds. Her favorite part about the delivery experience was how easy assembly was. Raymour & Flanigan does it all. “They brought the couch inside the house and put it all together. It was so convenient to not have to spend hours putting it together ourselves,” Stephanie says. “They were in and out of the house in less than 20 minutes.”
“I was completely surprised at how comfortable the couch was. Because of its sturdy appearance, I thought it would be quite stiff and take some time to settle in, but it was immediately so soft and comfortable,” Stephanie explains. “The cushions are structured, but soft as well, making it easy to lay back and watch television. The storage space under the chaise holds an exceptional number of blankets and pillows. Plus, the couch itself came with a lot of throw pillows, so we ended up stuffing a bunch of them under the chaise and still had space to fit all our extra blankets.”
Our favorite feature, of course, is the pull-out sleeper, which is really just an extra cushion. “I wouldn’t say it’s completely comfortable to sleep on that part because of the space between the cushion and the rest of the couch, but it’s perfect for leaning back on the back cushion and laying my legs outstretched in front of me the way I would on a chaise. Our three cats also really love the extra space,” Stephanie says.
Raymour & Flanigan does not accept returns or make refunds. You can add a five-year protection plan warranty for furniture at an additional cost.
Pros
- Extra storage space for blankets and pillows
- Pull-out cushion perfect for movie nights
- Quick delivery
- Fully assembled by Raymour & Flanigan
- Optional Platinum Protection Plan covers everyday accidents for 5 years
Cons
- Not a lot of space for a coffee table in between
- Only available in one color
Daria Smith/Family Handyman
Best Mid-Century
Article Timber Charme Chocolat Corner Sectional
Article’s Timber sectional gives off major mid-century vibes and would be perfect for a den or lounge area. It comes in three different arrangements: Corner sectional, left sectional and right sectional, and you can opt for fabric material in Olio Green, Pebble Gray or Rain Cloud Grey, or leather in Charme Chocolat or Charme Tan. We love that the base of the sectional is visible and provides a two-toned, dimensional appearance.
Pricing of the Timber sectional ranges from $1,900 to $3,500 depending on arrangement and material. Per usual, the fabric options are more affordable than the leather ones. Compared to other sectionals, Article’s pricing is middle of the road, and Affirm financing is available for low monthly payments.
Senior Shopping Editor Daria Smith selected the Timber leather corner sectional at $3,500. “When purchasing a leather sectional, I am weary as to what classifies as leather,” Daria says. “However, Article crafts the Timber sectional with genuine full-aniline leather, it’s not fake and won’t peel over time.”
“While I love the look of white sofas, I have a German shorthaired pointer—and that’s not a dog-friendly option,” Daria adds. “So, I opted for leather, as it simply wipes clean with a soft cloth. Cleanup is a breeze!” Each cushion cover is removable. Initially, a scratch from a pet shows evidently, but leather develops a beautiful patina over time and gets better with age. “Over the past two months I’ve owned this sectional, I only have positive remarks regarding its durability,” Daria says. “My last sofa was a ‘cloud’ couch, not ideal with Gracie, my pointer, who flattens cushions. Article leather cushions maintain their shape and don’t need a fluff, and Gracie doesn’t knock them off the couch.”
Article sectionals arrive within two to four weeks of the purchase date at your scheduled delivery time. Article employs workers directly to drive trucks around the country and personally deliver and set up your sectional. “I paid an extra $200 for assembly, and it was worth every penny,” Daria says. The solid oak base is two separate pieces that hinge together. Then, simply place five seat cushions, two arm cushions and six back cushions, and screw the legs to the base.
Two friendly deliverymen set up Daria’s sectional in less than 15 minutes in her desired location. Before ordering, check to ensure box dimensions will fit through doorways and in elevators and stairwells. The 205-pound sectional measures 32 inches by 93 inches by 35 inches, and the box comes in at 22 inches by 38 inches by 60 inches. The seat is 19 inches tall, 24 inches deep and the arms are 26 inches.
“I’m shocked at just how comfortable Article’s leather Timber sectional really is,” Daria says. “Gracie and I have taken several naps and Teams calls from this duck-feather-filled sofa. This sofa comfortably entertains five guests. I live in a 736-square-foot box, and this sofa was the perfect fit in my living room.”
On the off chance you’re not satisfied with an Article sectional, there’s a 30-day satisfaction guarantee from the delivery date—hold on to the boxes, as returns require original packaging. For an exchange, return shipping is free, and returns incur a $49 return shipping fee.
Pros
- Mid-tier pricing
- Durable
- Scratches evident initially but leather patinas over time
- Easy to clean, simply wipe with a cloth
- Removable cushion covers
- Pet-friendly
- Quick delivery time (2-4 weeks)
- Comfortable seats five guests
- 30-day satisfaction guarantee
Cons
- Limited color options
- Setup costs an extra $200
Sheri Kaz/Family Handyman
Best Traditional
Grandin Road Addison Sectional
With lots of options to build your own configuration, the Grandin Road Addison Sectional is our top pick when it comes to customizable sectional sofas. Our Product Reviews Editor Sheri Kaz found that her small living room was best suited for a sofa with a chaise. “I had the option of ordering the chaise on the right or left side, so I was able to tuck the sofa into the corner I wanted,” Sheri says. “The sectional is very solid and feels well-constructed. The frame is made from hardwood and kiln-dried engineered wood, which helps prevent the frame from warping. The manufacturer promised the frame is corner-blocked, which also helps with strength, although the underside of the frame is covered with material, so I’ll take their word for it. I know that the sectional feels solid.”
Sheri’s Grandin Road sectional was delivered to her home by a crew who removed the plastic wrap outdoors, carried in the sofa and put it in place. The screw-on legs were already attached, too. “All I needed to do was push the two pieces together and the metal hooks attached for stability,” Sheri says.
After two months of wear, Sheri hasn’t had any major messes to clean up, even though her non-shedding poodle mix hangs out on it daily. However, Grandin Road offers a durable polypropylene fabric that is easy to clean and maintain. “I opted for the heathered basketweave performance fabric to stand up to wear and tear and dirt over time,” Sheri says. “I was afraid the polypropylene fabric would feel scratchy, (I didn’t order a swatch in advance) and that the woven fabric would catch the dog nails since she likes to scratch, circle and build a nest. However, so far so good! I put her blanket down so she could nest to her hearts content.”
“I love the clean lines and piping on the cushions and that all of the seat and back cushions are removable to flip and rotate which will prolong the life of the piece,” Sheri adds. “The sofa is firm and holds its shape, as a result it’s very comfortable for napping. However, since the seat depth is 23 inches, it’s too deep to sit comfortably for a shorter person. My taller friends, on the other hand, found it extremely comfortable and supportive. Plus, the back cushions are very cushy and removable.”
It should be noted that all sales are final when ordering a custom piece. Additionally, you cannot modify the order after it’s placed.
Pros
- Customizable
- Reversible/removable seat and back cushions
- Stain-repellent and easy to clean
- Durable soft fabric
- Clean lines
- Supportive
- Non-marring foot pads
- Durable construction
- 2 throw pillows included
Cons
- Off-gassing occurs for two weeks
- One cushion looked like it might have potential to fray
Caroline Lubinsky/Family Handyman
Best Leather Sectional for Pets
25Home Modern Leather Sectional
All-leather sectionals are often pricey and out of reach for most consumers. That’s why we were particularly excited to test the 25Home Modern Leather Sectional. This DTC brand offers this specific sectional in a variety of sizes and configurations, but we chose the 100-inch right option, which retails for just over $3,000.
“The leather promises to be durable and puncture resistant, and so far, it has lived up to the claims,” Senior Shopping Editor Caroline Lubinsky says. “This is saying something, because a certain gray cat loves to sprint across the surface of the couch with her claws ablaze. We haven’t seen a single puncture yet, and our fingers are crossed that the leather holds up for years to come (yes, I will report back in a year).”
The one downside to the 25Home Modern Leather Sectional is the delivery process. Caroline had this sectional delivered to the second floor of an apartment complex (with no elevators), and the delivery person would not bring it up the stairs. “Mind you, this sectional is about 300 pounds in total, so there was no way we’d be able to get it up ourselves,” Caroline explains. “Luckily, we were able to recruit some random people we found in the parking lot, but you might not be so lucky. I highly recommend having multiple sets of hands available for delivery if you don’t live on the ground floor.”
We are also very impressed with whatever coating the brand uses on the leather fabric. Caroline spilled a cup of coffee (whoops) on the couch and was able to easily wipe it up without any remaining residue or staining. “I think this is an especially nice perk for folks who have messy kids or dirty pets, because you can easily clean anything up without ruining the leather,” she adds.
If you find that you are unsatisfied with this sofa, you have 30 days to return it from the day of receipt. It must be in its original condition and packaging, and there is a restocking fee of 10% of its purchase price. There’s also a one-year limited warranty, covering manufacturer defects in workmanship and materials. Additionally, the frame and springs have a three-year warranty.
Pros
- Tough leather is waterproof and very easy to clean
- Durable construction is resistant to claws and sharp objects
- Solid wood frame
- Cross-stitch detail feels luxe
- Pillows come with the sectional
- Comfortable
- Nice seat depth of nearly 27 inches
- Nice clearance under the couch for easy cleaning
Cons
- Company will not deliver up a flight of stairs (even with white glove delivery of an extra $150)
- Lots of packaging and wooden pallet to dispose
- No instructions
Mary Henn/Family Handyman
Best Low-Back
Burrow Mambo 4-Piece Sectional
With the Mambo 4-Piece Sectional, you can choose from two different fabric colors (gray or green) or brown leather and two arm styles (high and low). “I opted for the camel leather fabric in the low-arm style. You can also throw in an ottoman for an upcharge, but I opted not to do that,” Shopping Editor Mary Henn says. The only inconvenience with ordering from Burrow is that this sectional takes about eight to 10 weeks to ship. So, if you need a couch pronto, you may be in a bit of a bind with this one. Other than that, the sectional arrived securely wrapped and boxed right at my doorstep, and assembly was incredibly easy. The set up involved unpackaging the couch, screwing on some legs and snapping pieces together.
“One of my favorite things about the Mambo Sectional is that it’s modular, so you can arrange it multiple ways and even pull sections out to adjust the size of the sofa,” Mary says. There are also 4-, 6-, 7- and 8-piece sectional options in the Mambo Collection, along with chair, loveseat and standard sofa options. While the Mambo 4-Piece Sectional is on the pricey side ($5,000+ for the leather option), it looks incredibly sleek in person. It’s also very comfortable if you’re someone who enjoys a deep-set sofa with a wide seat. There are financing options available via Affirm if that’s something that appeals to you.
The sectional is 100 inches long, 28 inches tall and 74 inches deep. So, it’s a longer, shorter sectional with deep seats. In fact, with a seat depth of 26 inches, it’s about as deep as it is tall. “It does feel super sturdy when sitting and lounging on it, however,” Mary adds. “Being wide and low to the ground, it feels stable enough to support several people at once. Additionally, the smooth leather surface is easy to wipe clean after quick spills and messes, but with any leather furniture, you’ll want to watch out for pets with long nails. However, I will say that the leather surface on this sectional feels thick, as thought it would take a good amount of force and a sharp object to puncture through the surface.”
Overall, the Mambo Leather Sectional is firm to sit on. While a person of average height will sit deeply in the sofa due to the wide seat surface, they probably won’t sink into the sofa. “The back is also short, so that’s something to keep in mind if you’re looking for head and neck support,” Mary says. “I’d recommend this sofa for a basement or den, perhaps somewhere you’ll be entertaining or hanging out, where you’ll want to sit back but still be alert.”
Burrow has a 30-day return policy for all products. However, there is a return shipping fee equal to 10% of the purchase price, and the original packaging of the product must remain intact. Without the original packaging, the return fee bumps to 20% of the purchase price. The fee is always capped at $250 per returned item. Defective or damaged items are covered by Burrow’s warranty and do not require any return shipping fees. Burrow’s furniture comes with a one-year warranty that covers defects in materials or workmanship. You can add additional warranty coverage through Mulberry for an extended warranty period and accidents that may cause damage to the furniture. See their full warranty details for what’s covered and what’s not.
Pros
- Modular design allows for multiple arrangements
- Multiple fabric and size options
- Matching ottoman and other furniture available at Burrow
- Modern design appeal
- Durable fabric is easy to clean
- Easy setup, no tools needed
- Financing available
- Free shipping
Cons
- Ships in 8-10 weeks
- Limited, one-year warranty
What to Look for When Buying a Sofa Sectional
The first and perhaps most important thing to consider when shopping for a sofa sectional is size. Where do you want to put your new sectional and how much room do you have? You’ll want to take measurements of your space before you buy furniture. Trust me, I have made this mistake before, and it’s much easier and less of an inconvenience to measure ahead of time than hassle with returning a sectional that doesn’t fit your space.
Beyond size, you’ll want to think about what fabric and color you want your sectional to be. Do you want a light or dark color? Does microfiber or leather suit your design desires? Depending on your lifestyle, you may want a sectional that hides messes (perhaps not a cream-colored couch) or is easy to spot clean (like microfiber).
Because many sectionals are L-shaped, you’ll want to think about configuration, too. You don’t want to block a doorway or walkway with a chaise lounge-style sectional, so determining whether you want the sectional sofa to extend forward on the right or left side ahead of the purchase is important. If you’re unsure, there are many sofa sectionals online that allow you to reverse-configure the ottoman or chaise lounge section. Modular sofas in general are great options for trying out different configurations in a space or even changing up the look and feel of a space over time.
Finally: Price and comfort are two things you’ll want to consider as well—and they’re probably high on the priority list for most shoppers. If you’re on a budget or looking to splurge on your new living room, we have options above for just about every budget. As far as comfort goes, that’s a little more subjective. Firm sectionals might appeal to people who want a little more support when it comes to seating, and softer “cloud-like” sectionals may be ideal for people who want an ultra-plush, soft feel. You’ll definitely want to check to see what material the cushions are filled with—most are filled with foam, polyester, feathers, coils or a blend of materials. Each will feel different.
Why You Should Trust Us
We made it our mission to test every sofa sectional we could get our hands on. Compiling this piece truly required an all-hands-on-deck approach, as nearly every single one of our experienced shopping editors and product testers tried a sofa sectional in their own homes. We ordered the sofas, had them delivered to our homes and apartments, assembled and moved them on our own and used them in our spaces for months on end. Then, every sofa tester recorded and shared extensive notes on their experience trying out each couch. No table (or sofa, I should say) was left unturned.
We Tried Every Sectional Sofa on This List for Months
We considered more than 40 sofas for this list of best sectional sofas! After a lot of research and discussion, we narrowed down our list to the top sofas we wanted to test for ourselves. We looked at leading online furniture brands, product reviews, price points and availability before sending each sectional sofa to our team of experts. After months of testing the sofas, our experts put together extensive notes in order to tell you how each sofa really holds up.
FAQ
What sizes do sectionals come in?
Sectional sofas come in all kinds of sizes and configurations. With modular options, you can add and remove pieces to fit your space. Typically, however, sectionals are 90 and 160 inches in length. The budget sectional on our list is just 78 inches, so it’s a great space-saving solution.
What is the best material for a sectional sofa?
The majority of sectional sofas have a linen- or wool-blend fabric surface. Many people love the look of linen, but it tends to wrinkle and stain easily. Wool, on the other hand, is very durable and easy to clean. It can also be blended with synthetic materials for added strength.
How do you know if a sectional is good quality?
Perhaps a dead giveaway for determining the overall quality of construction when it comes to a sofa is what the frame is made of—solid wood frames signal top-quality production, while plywood and particle board suggest that the sofa was made with cheaper materials.
Originally Published: February 01, 2024
