9 Best Sectional Sofas, According to a Year of Testing

Our shopping editors tested the best sectional sofas on the market to gauge quality, durability and value. After a year of evaluation, here's all the information you need to know before you buy.

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Whether moving into a new apartment or your first home, you’ll probably need some furniture. A sofa is one of the staple furniture pieces you can’t live without. Where else will you read, watch Netflix, hang out with friends or even WFH?

Often, the style and color of the sofa you want will need to be shipped to you, even if you pick it out in-store. More than that, endless furniture options online offer the same perks of in-store shopping, like free shipping, trial periods, product warranties and even financing. Still, you might be a little wary of buying a couch online before testing it. That’s where we come in!

Our expert shopping editors tested over a dozen sectional sofas to give you the full scoop on the most comfortable options available right now. They had them shipped to their 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.

Medley Dekayess Bumper Sectional In Latex Wool
Best Overall
Medley Dekayess Bumper Sectional in Latex + Wool
Read More
7th Avenue Sectional
Best Cloud Couch Dupe
7th Avenue Modular Chaise Sectional
Read More
Silk & Snow Aire Modular Sofa
Best Budget
Silk & Snow Aire Modular Sofa
Read More
Lovesac Sactionals
Best Customizable
Lovesac Sactionals
Read More
Albany Park kova Pit sectional With Storage Ottoman
Most Comfortable
Albany Park Kova Pit Sectional with Storage Ottoman
Read More
Benchmade Modern Laguna Sectional
Best Fabric Selection
Benchmade Modern Laguna Sectional
Read More
Sabai Design The Elevate Sectional
Best Sustainable
Sabai Design The Elevate Sectional
Read More
Article Timber Charme Chocolat Corner Sectional
Best Leather
Article Timber Charme Chocolat Corner Sectional
Read More
Raymour & Flanigan Barry Sectional With Pop Up Sleeper
Best Pop-Up Sleeper
Raymour & Flanigan Barry Sectional with Pop-Up Sleeper
Read More

Medley Dekayess Bumper Sectional In Latex Wool
NICOLE DOSTER FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN
Best Overall

Medley Dekayess Bumper Sectional in Latex + Wool

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

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—a US-based custom-design furniture company—unique (and our top choice) is its attention to detail and craftsmanship. “For my couch’s filling, 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 says. “As much of the new furniture on the market is made with toxic materials, it made me feel good that I was bringing something cleaner and safer into my home.”

Medley Dekayess Bumper Sectional In Latex
NICOLE DOSTER FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

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 it is worth it for a custom design. (Monthly financing is available through Affirm.) Medley provides a ‘white glove’ delivery through a third-party company, and 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 the 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.

"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 doster
content director

The natural latex cushion provides comfort and structured support that helps the sectional keep its shape, even after the rough-and-tumble of Nicole’s dog when he has the zoomies. The wool topper gives it a soft extra padding.

We checked in with Nicole after a year of testing the Medley sectional sofa. “I was worried that this sectional would start to squeak or sag as we have used it for hours nearly every day since getting it—and that’s not the case at all,” she says. “The Medley sectional has held up very well and now has a cozier, more broken-in look and feel.”

“My favorite thing about it is how easy it is to clean the cloth material. It has stood up to pet hair, Diet Coke spills, pasta nights and more,” Nicole adds. “The only flaw is that it is very heavy when fully assembled and will be difficult to move if we ever rearrange the room.”

Seat Depth: 22 inches | Upholstery: Flat weave, leather, linen, textured weave, velvet or chenille | Color: 100+ options | Features: Fully customizable

7th Avenue Sectional
CHER CHECCHIO FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN
Best Cloud Couch Dupe

7th Avenue Modular Chaise Sectional

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

After four years, it was time for product tester 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. “I opted for the 4-seater with an ottoman in extra deep because the size complemented my living space,” Cher says. “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. “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 makes 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.”

7th Avenue 4-Seat Modular Chaise Sectional
Cher Checchio For Family Handyman

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. The frame is solid hardwood, and the legs are reinforced steel.

7th Avenue offers a limited lifetime warranty, along with 12-, 24-, and 36-month financing options available for those wanting to splurge (but not all at once). 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.

Seat Depth: 39 or 47 inches | Upholstery: Textured weave, woven chenille or performance velvet | Color: 13 options | Features: Modular design

Silk & Snow Aire Modular Sofa
MARY HENN FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN
Best Budget

Silk & Snow Aire Modular Sofa

Pros:

  • Smart value buy
  • Stain-resistant covers
  • Down-alternative cushion fill
  • Easy to assemble
  • Available in two arm styles and seat depths
  • Multiple colors and configurations
  • PFAS-free and TSCA-compliant
  • Free shipping, 30-night trial and 5-year warranty

Cons:

  • Seat depth on the standard version runs slightly narrow
  • Not ideal for fans of ultra-plush, sink-in sofas

If you’re looking for another cloud-couch dupe on a budget, this Silk & Snow sectional is hard to beat. It’s one of the larger sectionals on our list—and the most affordable for its size and quality.

Shopping Editor Mary Henn tested the Aire in her own home and was impressed by its sleek, modern design, stain-resistant fabric and flexible modular layout.

“Like most toddler parents, I’ve steered clear of white or cream sofas, but I love the clean, airy look they bring to a room,” Mary says. “We needed a new sofa for our basement, and when I saw the Aire’s price and stain-resistant fabric, I went for it. Plus, if one piece gets ruined, the modular design means I can just swap it out.”

Silk & Snow Aire Modular Sofa
MARY HENN FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

The Aire comes in four sofa sizes and seven sectional configurations, seating anywhere from four to eight people. It’s available in four neutral shades: white, cream, taupe and sand.

“I’ve assembled a few boxed sofas, and this one was the easiest—no tools required. The most time-consuming part was unboxing,” Mary says. “Ours arrived in two separate shipments over two days, but it took just over two hours to assemble, and the cushions were ready to use right away. We didn’t have to wait for them to puff up.”

Mary opted for the six-seater L-shaped configuration (to suit her long, narrow basement) in the cream color.“I was nervous about going with cream, but Silk & Snow’s stain-resistant fabric holds up. So far, all spills have been wiped clean. We had one juice incident, but it was no match for the Shark StainStriker,” Mary says.

Comfort-wise, the Aire delivers firm, supportive seating that resists sagging.“My family has loved it for basement movie nights. If I’m being picky, I do wish the seat depth were a bit wider. There is a deluxe version with deeper seats, but the dimensions are different, and the regular seat option fits our space perfectly—and that was more important.”

Seat Depth: 29.75 or 37.75 inches | Upholstery: Polyester, woven | Color: 4 options | Features: Modular design

Lovesac Sactionals
KATIE BANDURSKI FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN
Best Customizable

Lovesac Sactionals

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

“I’m a big proponent of forever furniture,” says Deputy 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? They’re entirely modular. Meaning every single piece—from the seats to the sides—snaps together in an endless array of configurations. Katie chose a classic chaise sectional and one-armed sofa arrangement for her living room, but she could configure a massive L-shaped sectional or even push the seats together to make a guest bed.

Even more impressive? Every inch of fabric is removable—and 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 it 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.”

Pillow with strains and clean on a a wooden floor
Katie Bandurski for Family Handyman

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 allow.

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 says.

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. 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!

“After a year of daily use, the Lovesac couch still looks brand new. It’s the first thing you notice when entering our home, and guests always comment on its style and comfort,” Katie says. “The seashell poly linen fabric does require weekly upkeep, as the fabric likes to cling to debris. I typically just go over it a few times with the vacuum cleaner to pick up lint and hair.”

Seat Depth: 29 or 35 inches | Upholstery: Velvet, bouclé, chenille, crossweave, polylinen, leather or reversible | Color: 180+ options | Features: Fully customizable, with reclining seat, storage, wireless charging, built-in speakers, tables and power hub addon options

Albany Park kova Pit sectional With Storage Ottoman
EMILY WAY FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN
Most Comfortable

Albany Park Kova Pit Sectional with Storage Ottoman

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
  • Free shipping and 30-day home trial
  • Lifetime warranty

Cons:

  • Pricey
  • Boxes are large and heavy
  • Assembly can be tricky for corner pieces, but Albany Park offers helpful videos

“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.”

As one of the most comfortable sectional sofas, the deep, cozy Kova was made for ultimate relaxation. It’s another cloud-like pick that is hypoallergenic and vegan. It comes in 30 different color options, and you can choose comfy-cozy pillow cushions or sleek, modern box cushions.

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.

Jewel Toned Albany Park Kova Sectional Assembly
Emily Way/Family Handyman

Assembly is straightforward. Simply slide the backrests into place using a set of metal tracks on the base. “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.

After a year of testing, we checked in with Emily to see how the Albany Park sofa is holding up. “It looks just as plush and lovely as the day I brought it home,” she says. “Despite my family and pets curling up on it every evening, I’ve seen zero decline in its comfort level. Every week, I do a little routine maintenance, e.g., vacuuming and fluffing the cushions and treating any dribbles or spots with a mild cleaning solution.”

“While it’s still my favorite sofa I’ve ever owned, I noticed two things after over a year of enjoying it, both relating to the fabric,” Emily tells us. “I chose velvet, and I still stand by that choice—it’s lovely and so soft. That said, it picks up a lot of dust and pet hair, so weekly vacuuming is a requirement. Second, in drier months, the couch produces a lot of static electricity. If you have kids or pets, I’d stick to the performance fabrics.”

Seat Depth: 65 inches | Upholstery: Linen, chenille, brushed canvas, bouclé, velvet, twill or basketweave | Color: 32 options | Features: Optional storage ottoman addon

Benchmade Modern Laguna Sectional
CAROLINE LUBINSKY FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN
Best Fabric Selection

Benchmade Modern Laguna Sectional

Pros:

  • High-quality construction
  • Easy to clean
  • Comfortable and supportive
  • Made in the USA
  • Plenty of fabrics to choose from
  • Quick shipping and seamless delivery service
  • 100-day trial
  • Hardwood frame

Cons:

  • Pricey

“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,” product tester Caroline Lubinsky says. “The Benchmade Modern Laguna Sectional is the stuff of dreams.” We love this sectional for its multitude of fabric and color options. It was a close runner-up to our ‘Best Overall’ pick.

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 oozes luxury. And the process of choosing your customizations couldn’t be easier. Benchmade Modern will send you a box of fabric squares, 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.

"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 lubinsky
former senior editor and product tester

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.”

Benchmade Modern Laguna Sectional
CAROLINE LUBINSKY FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

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.

Seat Depth: 22 inches | Upholstery: Bouclé, chenille, leather, textured, velvet or woven | Color: 130+ options | Features: Fully customizable

Sabai Design The Elevate Sectional
ANDREA CARRILLO FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN
Best Sustainable

Sabai Design The Elevate Sectional

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

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.

Product tester 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.

Sabai Design The Elevate Sectional
ANDREA CARRILLO FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

“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.

Seat Depth: 23 inches | Upholstery: Recycled velvet, upcycled poly or hemp | Color: 19 options | Features: Modular design

Article Timber Charme Chocolat Corner Sectional
DARIA SMITH FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN
Best Leather

Article Timber Charme Chocolat Corner Sectional

Pros:

  • Durable and pet-friendly leather
  • Easy to clean, simply wipe with a cloth
  • Removable cushion covers
  • Multiple color and arragement options
  • Quick delivery time (2-4 weeks) and 30-day satisfaction guarantee

Cons:

  • Scratches may be evident initially but the leather patinas over time
  • Setup costs an extra $200

Article’s Timber Sectional gives off major mid-century vibes, and we love the sectional’s two-toned, dimensional appearance. “When purchasing a leather sectional, I am wary as to what classifies as leather,” says product tester Daria Smith. “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.”

Each cushion cover is removable, and the leather develops a beautiful patina over time and gets better with age. “In the year 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 Timber Charme Chocolat Corner Sectional
DARIA SMITH FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

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.

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.

“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.

Seat Depth: 24 inches | Upholstery: Leather | Color: Charme chocolat (brown) | Features: None

On Sale
Raymour & Flanigan Barry Sectional With Pop Up Sleeper
STEPHANIE HOPE FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN
Best Pop-Up Sleeper

Raymour & Flanigan Barry Sectional with Pop-Up Sleeper

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

Product tester 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. “After measuring, we found the 4-piece fit our space perfectly. We knew we had found our dream couch,” Stephanie says.

“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,” Stephanie adds.

Her favorite part about the delivery experience was how easy the assembly was. Raymour & Flanigan does it all. “They brought the couch inside the house and put it all together. It was so convenient not to have to spend hours putting it together ourselves,” Stephanie says. “They were in and out of the house in less than 20 minutes, and it immediately felt like a couch that will last us many years.”

“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 says. “The cushions are structured but soft as well, making it easy to lie back and watch TV. 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 that transforms the sofa into a bed. Unlike many sleeper sofas that compromise on comfort and style, this one offers the cozy look and feel of a sectional sofa while providing a convenient sleeping space when needed.

Raymour & Flanigan does not accept returns or make refunds. You can add a five-year protection plan warranty for furniture at an additional cost.

Seat Depth: 24 inches | Upholstery: Polyester | Color: Gray | Features: Pop-up sleeper and hidden storage


Others We Tested

Burrow Mambo 4 Piece Sectional Bottom part
MARY HENN/ FAMILY HANDYMAN

  • Best Choice Products Sectional: If you’re in search of an ultra-budget option, this affordable, small sectional is 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. The cushions are vacuum sealed, so they take a few days to puff up. Our tester also immediately noticed a chemical-like smell, which lingered for weeks. Assembly is relatively quick and easy, and it can be done by one person alone. We love that the cushions Velcro to the base so that they don’t slide around or fall off. 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 for a traditional sofa.
  • Grandin Road Addison Sectional: With lots of options to build your own configuration, the Addison Sectional is a smart choice for customizable sectional sofas. Product tester Sheri Kaz found that her small living room was best suited for a sofa with a chaise. “The sectional is very solid and feels well-constructed,” she says. “I opted for the heathered basketweave performance fabric to stand up to wear and tear and dirt over time. I also love that the cushions are removable, which will prolong the life of the piece. Overall, it’s a firm sofa that holds its shape, and it’s very comfortable for napping.” Editor’s note: All sales are final when ordering this custom piece. Additionally, you cannot modify the order after it’s placed.
  • 25Home Modern Leather Sectional: This all-leather sectional from 25Home comes at a fair price, and it’s durable and puncture-resistant. “It has lived up to the claims,” says product tester Caroline Lubinsky. “My cat loves to sprint across the surface of the couch with her claws ablaze. We haven’t seen a single puncture yet.” The major downside to the 25Home Modern Leather Sectional is the delivery process. Caroline paid for white-glove delivery (an additional $150) to have the sectional delivered to her second-floor apartment (with no elevators), and the delivery person did not bring it up the stairs. You have 30 days to return this sofa from the day of receipt if it doesn’t work out. It must be in its original condition and packaging, and there is a restocking fee of 10% of its purchase price.
  • Mambo 4-Piece Sectional: Our tester’s favorite thing about the Burrow 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. The only inconvenience with ordering from Burrow is that this sectional takes about eight to 10 weeks to ship. However, assembly was easy. The setup involved unpackaging the couch, screwing on some legs and snapping pieces together. The Mambo sectional is a sleek, comfortable option if you like a firm, deep-set sofa with a wide seat. Our tester also noted that the back is also short, so that’s something to keep in mind if you’re looking for head and neck support. Burrow has a 30-day return policy for all products. However, there is a return shipping fee that is capped at $250 per returned item. Defective or damaged items are covered by Burrow’s warranty. See their full warranty details for what’s covered and what’s not.

Grandin Road Addison Sectional
SHRI KAZ FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

Additional Testing in 2025

This year, Family Handyman Shopping Editor Mary Henn tested the Silk & Snow Aire Sectional, which has quickly become our favorite budget-friendly pick. We were especially excited to add this option to our list of best sectionals after seeing strong interest in our 7th Avenue cloud couch dupe. The latest addition to this list, the Silk & Snow sectional, stands out for several reasons: its modular design, wide range of size options and durable performance fabric. It offers great value without sacrificing style or comfort.

Additional sectional testing is currently underway, so we’ll be back soon to share our latest findings. Spoiler alert: a reclining option may be joining the lineup next.

Industry Trends for 2025

Sectional sofas in 2025 are all about soft curves, low profiles and adaptable designs that maximize both comfort and style. According to Bree Steele, Interior Designer & Trade Accounts Manager at RJ Living, “Oversized and boxy designs are tapering off as 2025 is seeing curved silhouettes and low-profile designs that are modern and comfortable for everyday living.”

Textures like plush bouclé, heavy linen, and textured weaves are rising in popularity, while color trends are shifting away from cool grays in favor of warm taupes, rich olives and soft caramels. Modular sectionals are also in high demand, as they allow homeowners to reconfigure their layouts to suit any space, making them a perfect fit for living rooms of all shapes and sizes.

Burrow Mambo 4 Piece Sectional
MARY HENN FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

What to Look for When Shopping for a Comfortable Sectional Sofa

Measurements

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.

Fabric and Color

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). Milly says that solid hardwood frames, high-quality upholstery fabrics and high-density foam cushions are some great features to look for, especially since they handle regular use much better.

Configuration

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. “Modular pieces, adjustable armrests or removable covers can make your new sectional even more versatile (and easy to maintain),” Milly says.

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.

Price and Comfort

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.

A white cover of a sofa seat on a wooden floor
Katie Bandurski for Family Handyman

We Tried Every Sectional Sofa on This List for a Year

We considered more than 40 sofas while compiling this list of the best sectional sofas. After extensive research, comparison and team discussions, we narrowed the list down to a select group of top contenders that we were eager to test ourselves. We evaluated sofas from leading online furniture brands, taking into account customer reviews, ease of ordering, price, style, construction and durability, assembly, comfort, cleaning, warranties and returns. Once chosen, each sectional was shipped directly to our team of expert editors for hands-on testing.

Over the course of several months, our shopping editors lived with these sofas in their own homes and took detailed notes on how each one performed in real-life settings. Each sectional sofa on this list—with the exception of the newly added Silk & Snow sectional, which has undergone nearly six months of testing—was tested for more than a year by our editors. Our team includes pet owners, parents and frequent hosts—meaning each sofa was exposed to the realities of everyday life: kids, cats, dogs, food and drink spills, naps, movie nights and even a few house moves. This thorough, real-world testing allowed us to evaluate each sectional’s durability, comfort, ease of cleaning and overall value—so you can shop with total confidence.

7th Avenue 4-Seat Modular Chaise Sectional
Cher Checchio For Family Handyman

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?

“A good sectional is meant to be a well-rounded couch that offers a balance of style and comfort,” Milly explains.

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.

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 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. Some of the sectionals were delivered by delivery teams and didn’t require any assembly, while some were delivered in several individual boxes that each had to be moved and opened.

Every sofa tester recorded and shared extensive notes on their experience trying out each couch. They considered cost, ordering and delivery experience, ease of assembly, quality and durability. Some of our editors went as far as to purposely spill coffee and pasta sauce on their sectionals in order to test performance fabrics. No table (or sofa, I should say) was left unturned.

After more than a year, we came back to update some of our findings and answer questions like, “Did the sectional we tested hold up after a year of daily use?”

Plus, this isn’t our team’s first foray into testing furniture. We’ve evaluated multiple other product categories, including reading chairs, bed frames, coffee tables and box mattresses.

To ensure our recommendations reflect the latest design trends, we also spoke to some experts. Bree Steele, Interior Designer & Trade Accounts Manager at RJ Living has over a decade of experience designing and styling homes, Bree provided expert insight into the fabrics, colors and shapes defining sectional sofas in 2025. Her knowledge, combined with our extensive hands-on testing, ensures that our picks are not only stylish but also practical for real-life use.

We also chatted with Milly McEwan, Product and Design Manager at RJ Living. Milly has an extensive background in product design, especially when it comes to textiles and upholstery.

Paul Rankin and Melissa Lee, Content Updates Editors at Family Handyman, updated and contributed research to this article. Paul also writes for Reader’s Digest, Bob Vila and Taste of Home and has written shopping guides since 2021. Melissa has six years of experience in the commerce journalism space and has written home and DIY content for PureWow, Yahoo and USA Today.