10 Best Online Sofas You Can Buy on the Web Right Now

One of the best parts about buying a sofa in-store is the “test driving.” You can sit down, sink in, and know right away if it’s the cozy nest you’ve been dreaming of. You get to tug the cushions, feel the fabric, and test whether it’s “Netflix marathon comfy” or “do n’t-even-think-about-napping” stiff.

But shopping online is a different ballgame. You can’t flop onto the cushions or check the sturdiness of the frame. And this means you have to be a little more cautious about what you click “add to cart” on.

That’s exactly why we’ve done the digging for you. We sifted through the endless choices, compared the specs, read the reviews, and pulled together the 10 best sofas to buy online right now. 

Whether you’re furnishing a new home or upgrading your current space, these are the sofas you can buy online with confidence. No showroom test drive required. They are stylish, comfortable, reliable, and built for real-life lounging.

1. DreamSofa Bordeaux: Best overall

The Bordeaux from DreamSofa is a sofa so stylish and sumptuous that it deserves its own standing ovation. It’s a glamorous take on the classic Chesterfield, with high rolled arms, tight diamond tufting, and a dash of nailhead trim drama that winks at traditional styles while staying fashionably modern. It’s the kind of piece that gets everyone going, “wow.”

And it comes with customizable comfort. Want sink-right-in plush for cozy lounging, or prefer a firmer, posture-friendly sit? You can tailor the Bordeaux to offer the comfort your body craves.

The DreamSofa Bordeaux is handcrafted with thoughtful precision, using premium materials. It comes with kiln-dried solid hardwood frames (backed with a lifetime warranty), 8-gauge sinuous spring suspension, and premium 2.5lb high-resilience foam in seat cushions. Meaning? The Bordeaux features rock-solid quality. 

And with DreamSofa, you’re not just choosing a sofa. You’re designing it. DreamSofa’s DesignXChange™ platform powers full customization, allowing you to choose the sofa width, seat depth, seat height, fabric, leg style, nailhead trim, and more. 

You can tweak and tweak until you have a bespoke masterpiece. You can even add a sleeper to your Bordeaux, so it converts into a comfy bed at night for overnight guests. DreamSofa’s helpful designers will work with you until you nail your bespoke piece. 

Buying the DreamSofa Bordeaux online does not come with some of the problems that plague online furniture shopping. Each fully custom sofa arrives in just 3 – 5 weeks, which is faster than industry norms. 

And with real‑time order tracking, you know where the sofa is until it gets to you. Plus, the Bordeaux comes with free white glove delivery. The service people will deliver the sofa to your room, set it up, and remove the packaging at no extra cost to you. It doesn’t matter whether you live on a ground floor or many storeys up.

What’s more, you’re getting the quality sofa and quality service at roughly 30 – 40% less than you’d expect for designer-made pieces, as DreamSofa uses a direct-to-consumer model that slashes usual showroom markups.

Key features

• An elegant design with high rolled arms, beautiful tuftings, and stylish nailhead trims
• Loose seat cushions with customizable comfort
• Reinforced steel and wood hybrid construction
• Seat cushions feature premium 2.5lb high-resilience foam
• Reversible cushions for longer wear and style refresh
• Over 250+ premium fabric choices, including stain-resistant, cleanable, waterproof, pet- and kid-friendly options
• Optional sleeper feature, available in Twin, Full, or Queen sleeper options
• Extensive customization options

Pros

Cons

✅ Its refined aesthetics instantly elevate any room ✅ Offers spacious seating ✅ It’s built tough for longevity ✅ You can keep it looking fresh for longer by flipping the cushions   ✅ You can add a queen, king, or twin-size bed for sleeping overnight guests ✅ Free fabric swatches mailed before purchase ✅ Free white glove delivery ✅ Industry’s fastest delivery for fully custom sofas ✅ 100-day free trial ✅ Upholstered in highly durable performance fabrics ✅ You can tweak virtually every aspect of the sofa and make it reflect your style

❌ It is not a budget-friendly piece. But for a high-end sofa, it is inexpensive

What customers say

Customers praise the high quality and exquisite craftsmanship of the DreamSofa Bordeaux.

Many people also appreciate the extensive customization that DreamSofa allows. You’ll find people happy that they could customize several aspects of the Bordeaux sofa to make it perfectly suit their taste and lifestyle.

2. Burrow Shift Sleeper Sofa: Best for easy sofa-to-bed transitions

The Shift sleeper sofa from Burrow blends modern minimalism with a warm, livable design. Its clean lines, low-profile, ultra-thin arm, and arm cushions give it an overall silhouette that is perfect for both contemporary apartments and cozy guest spaces.

Shift is a sleeper sofa featuring a queen-sized memory foam mattress concealed within its compact sofa frame. You unfold the cushions, and voila, you have a comfy bed. No clunky pull-out mechanisms or mattress frame to worry about. Even the arm cushions double as pillows. 

The Shift’s design means that when it’s in sofa mode, you’re sitting on a real mattress, making it very comfortable. 

The Shift is an in-stock item, so you don’t have the luxury of customizing it. But you can choose from five upholstery fabrics. Being in stock also means it ships fast (2-5 days from order), but you have only 30 days to return the sofa if you don’t love it.

Key features

• A minimalist design with a low profile, ultrathin arms, and arm cushions
• A compact footprint
• Features a precision-milled wood frame and steel latches
• Features arm cushions 
• Converts to a bed by unfolding the seat cushions
• Features a high-comfort mattress under seat cushions  
• Upholstered in high-performance fabric upholstery

Pros	Cons
✅ Minimalist design makes it perfect for various decor  ✅ Compact size makes it perfect for small spaces ✅ Mattress under seat cushions delivers cozy comfort ✅ Seamless and noiseless, metal-free sofa-to-bed transition ✅ Unfolds to a queen-size bed ✅ Shipping is very fast  ✅ You can order fabric swatches ✅ Stain- and scratch-resistant upholstery holds up well against life’s messes	❌ No customization beyond choosing fabric upholstery  ❌ Return window is only 30 days ❌ Very shallow seat may not be suitable for lounging

What customers say

Customers appreciate how comfortable the Burrow Shift is, especially in bed mode. You’ll find people calling it a very comfortable sleeper sofa, and some even going as far as calling it the comfiest sleeper sofa they’ve ever slept on.

Many customers also appreciated the Shift’s easy, metal-free mechanism, saying they’re able to transform the sofa into a bed in minutes.

Also read: 10 Best High-End Luxury Couches to Elevate Your Home Décor.

3. Lovesac Snugg Sofa 2-Cushion Tapered Arms: Best for design flexibility 

If you want “simple + stylish,” the Lovesac Snugg 2-cushion sofa says Hi. With clean, modern lines and balanced proportions, the Snugg is stylish without being overbearing. 

And it comes with design flexibility with three arm styles. The pictured Snugg above has tapered arms, but you can obtain Swept or Square arms separately, so you can swap the arms at any time to give your sofa a new look (instead of buying a new couch).  

Snugg answers the comfort call with two cushion fill choices. Its standard fill delivers supportive comfort, while its Lovesoft is so soft, offering sink-in coziness. Underneath those cushions is a solid frame built with hardwood and steel for structural strength.

And the whole sofa is upholstered in durable performance fabrics, perfect for high-traffic or family homes. 

Even more interesting is that the Snugg’s cushion covers are removable and machine-washable. With this, dealing with stubborn stains is as simple as unzipping cushion covers, removing them, and tossing them into a washer. 

With limited customization, your Snugg sofa will arrive in about 3 weeks from order.

Key features

• Minimalist design with clean lines, loose cushions  
• Two cushion fill choices
• Interchangeable arm design
• Features a hardwood and steel reinforced frame
• Optional storage compartment 
• Removable and washable cushion covers
• Upholstered in tain-resistant performance fabric
• Ships in three weeks from order

Pros

Cons

✅ Its simple design works well in both traditional and modern homes  ✅ You get firmer or plusher cushions, depending on your preference ✅ You can give your sofa a new look by swapping arms or cushion covers ✅ Optional storage compartment offers a practical place to stash items ✅ Deep cleaning is easier with removable and washable covers ✅ Durable upholstery makes it perfect for busy homes ✅ Very fast delivery ✅ Test fabric before purchase with delivered fabric swatches ✅ Stain- and scratch-resistant upholstery holds up well against life’s messes

❌ Setting up and connecting pieces can be challenging ❌ Relatively expensive for a simple sofa  ❌ Custom options often have long lead times

What customers say

Customers love the flexibility of the Lovesac Snugg. While the popular Lovesac Sactionals are famous for modular flexibility, the Snugg sofa shines in design flexibility (thanks to its interchangeable arms). I

n reviews, you’ll find customers happy that they can swap their sofa’s arms to match their evolving style. One day, their Snugg features sleek, tapered arms for a traditional look, and the next day, it showcases soft, swept arms for a more modern, cozier feel.

Some also appreciate how the removable cushion covers help them refresh their sofa’s look. One day, it’s dressed in a light, airy neutral for a calm, coastal vibe, and the next day, it’s sporting a bold, textured fabric to make a more dramatic statement.

4. Room and Board Jasper Sofa: Best for compact spaces with a mid-century vibe

The Jasper sofa from Room and Board combines mid-century styling with modern comfort. Narrow arms and long, elegant legs give it a lifted, streamlined profile that works in both classic and contemporary interiors. While compact, its narrow arms make the most of the seating space, making it the perfect sofa for smaller living rooms that need to maximize seating space. 

When comfort calls, Jasper answers. With its plush, blend-down cushions, this couch practically envelops you in comfort. And its interiors feature hardwood frames built in North Carolina from sustainably sourced materials.

Plus, the online purchase process is smooth. You pick your size, fabric, leg style, and leg finish, and add to cart. White glove delivery is available, but this comes with a small charge.   

Key features

• Mid-century design with narrow arms and long legs
• Cushions feature a down blend
• Medium seat depth
• Multiple leg styles
• Loose seat and back cushions
• Hardwood frame with dual “flexolator” suspension 
• A wide selection of  family‑ and pet‑friendly performance upholstery materials

Pros	Cons
✅ Slim mid‑century modern silhouette with tall legs gives it an airy look, perfect for small rooms ✅ Offers plush comfort ✅ Built to last ✅ Durable upholstery holds up well to use over time ✅ Offers  90-day return window ✅ You can customize your sofa with leg style, leg finish, and fabric   ✅ Get free fabric and leather swatches before buying	❌ Limited customization options ❌ The medium seat depth may be too shallow for those who need a deep sofa for lounging  ❌ Longer than expected wait times

What customers say

Customers love the small-space friendliness of the Room and Board Jasper sofa. A recurring sentiment in customer reviews is that the Jasper’s airy profile (which is thanks to its Mid-century-inspired long legs) makes small rooms feel more open and less crowded.

5. Interior Define Sloan 3-Seat Leather Sofa: Best for creating a luxe, high-end, contemporary feel 

If you’re looking for a sleek, contemporary sofa, the Sloan 3-Seat Leather Sofa from Interior Define is worth considering. With clean lines, crisp track arms, subtle tapering by the back, and pigment‑dyed leather upholstery that offers a refined and polished look, the Sloan strikes that balance between sleek modern and soft invitingness.

The Sloan allows you to choose your comfort levels. Prefer to sit upright? Choose a shallower seat and standard cushion fill for a firmer seat. Like to lounge like royalty? Go for deep seats with enough room for stretching out, and down cushion fill that offers a softer seat. 

And the inside features a frame built with kiln‑dried hardwood and reinforced with blocking at corners for sturdiness.

If you’re a fabric person, the Sloan three seater can be upholstered in a range of fabric materials, including stain-resistant performance options. You can also customize your leg finish, with options ranging from rich wood (think warm walnut legs) to sleek metal.

Interior Define ships in-stock items within 1-3 weeks. But when you customize your Sloan, it can take 8-12 weeks to get to you. White glove delivery is available at an extra cost. You get 30 days to return in-stock items and 60 days for made-to-order pieces.  

Key features

• Sleek modern hybrid design with crisp track arms, a subtle taper toward the back, and long legs
• Multiple size options and seating depth choices
• Layered foam and fiber fill cushions
• Frames feature kiln‑dried hardwood with corner blocking 
• Rich leather upholstery (fabric available)

Pros	Cons
✅ Sleek modern design makes it the perfect couch for contemporary homes  ✅ It retains shape well ✅ Durable construction ✅ Offers free fabric samples for testing ✅ You can have up to 60 days to test the sofa before returning it  ✅ You can customize several aspects of the Sloan ✅ Fabric upholstery available	❌ Very expensive  ❌ Seats are on the firmer side  ❌ Wait times can be very long for custom options

What customers say

Going through customer reviews, it’s easy to see that people love the look and design of the Sloan leather sofa. You’ll find people saying it’s a statement piece, while others were even more specific, saying the leather upholstery adds a touch of sophistication to their space.  

Some people were also impressed by how well the legs and finish matched what was shown online.

6. West Elm Mella Sofa: Best for apartments and smaller rooms

The Mella sofa from West Elm is a chic little piece. If you’re planning to bring elegance to a small space, the Mella is a perfect couch. With its bat-wing back and low-to-the-ground, armless profile, it brings a retro-chic touch without being overbearing.

Cushions feature fibre-rapped, high-resiliency foams over webbed support, offering a medium seat. No sinking here. But you get to settle in and relax without feeling stiff. 

The Mella is upholstered in performance velvet that gives you a luxurious, soft feel while being highly resistant to stains and wear.

Have pets that often think the sofa is a scratching post or adventurous kids who often think the sofa is a writing board? No problem. The durable and easy-clean performance fabric can handle anything life throws at it. 

However, you can choose from only two options. Sadly, you can’t fully customize the sofa to fit your style. However, no customization means your Mella sofa will ship faster. Expect 2-3 weeks from order to receive it. 

Key features

• Armless chic design with a low profile and bat wing back 
• Cushions feature fibre-wrapped, high-resiliency polyurethane foam cores over webbed support
• Engineered wood frame
• Upholstered in performance velvet

Pros	Cons
✅ Its design-forward silhouette elevates a room ✅ Its small footprint is perfect for small/ tight spaces ✅ Its medium-firm seats retain their shape well ✅ Solid construction for durability ✅ Budget-friendly  ✅ The fabric material withstands the rigors of everyday life ✅ You can have up to 60 days to test the sofa before returning it	❌ Limited fabric and customization options   ❌ Seats may be too firm for many  ❌ No fabric swatches to test the fabric before buying ❌ 30-day return on stocked items

What customers say

Customers love the design, practicality, and affordability of the West Elm Mella sofa. Some say the sofa’s sculptural silhouette and soft, rounded lines give it a high-end, designer feel without the designer price tag. Many say the look, feel, and quality exceed expectations for the price. 

The practical upholstery is another feature that customers love. Many comment on how easily stains and spills wipe off the sofa despite its luxe velvet feel. 

7. Joybird Hopson Sleeper Sofa: Best for multi-purpose rooms

The Hopson sleeper sofa from Joybird takes lessons from both mid-century and contemporary designs to show off a sleek, tailored aesthetic that works well in modern and transitional spaces. 

Despite being compact, the Hopson doesn’t skimp on presence. Its structured arms and squared-off cushions give it a grounded, architectural feel, while its tufted back and angled legs create some interesting drama. And it is built on a solid wood and metal frame, giving sturdy support.

But what sets the Joybird Hopson apart isn’t just the style. It’s the function. Beneath its sleek exterior lies a full-size sleeper with a smooth pull-out mechanism. 

No extra bedroom to host overnight guests? No worries. A comfy mattress pulls out of the Hopson and rests on a sturdy steel frame, providing sleeping space without sacrificing floor space or visual appeal.

The Hopson answers the comfort call both as a sofa and a sleeper. Cushions are medium-firm and enjoyable, providing structure without the “sinking in.” The queen-size mattress is 4.5 inches thick and consists of high-density foam topped with memory foam. Cool comfort.

For customization, Joybird offers a wide range of upholstery materials. Unfortunately, Joybird’s shipping is slower than that of many others on this list. Even in-stock models take 6 weeks to ship, while custom models can take 8 weeks or more. And the delivery type is mainly curbside and in-home. 

Key features

• Clean mid‑century style and modern lines
• Compact footprint as a sofa
• Cushions feature a high-density polyurethane foam core 
• Solid hardwood and engineered wood frame construction
• Fabric swatches available pre‑purchase
• Includes a built-in sleeper
• 60+ fabric upholstery choices, which include stain-resistant and wear-resistant performance fabrics

Pros	Cons
✅ Visually appealing in many decorating styles ✅ Works well in small spaces  ✅ Firmer cushions help the sofa retain its shape well ✅ Solid build quality ✅ Easily converts into a sizeable sleeper ✅ Multiple fabric types and many colour options ✅ Relatively long 90-day return window	❌ Limited customization options   ❌ Several owners find the seat cushions very firm ❌ Delivery delays

What customers say

Customers highlight the Hopson sleeper functionality. You’ll find comments like “the sleeper functionality is better than we expected” and “when converted into a bed, it performs fairly well for guests, especially compared to many sleeper sofas.”

Others choose to appreciate the Joybird Hopson’s compact size, with many saying the sofa is a great size for their small spaces.

8. Apt2B Avalon Sofa: Best for structured support

If you’re gunning for a combo of sleek modernity and cozy charm, you may want to look towards the Avalon sofa from Apt2B. Clean lines and narrow arms give it a tidy, streamlined look, while a wraparound wood base gives it warm coziness and visual weight without overwhelming a space.

Besides looking good, Avalon is built to be comfortable, as its high-density foam cushions offer a firm but inviting seat. You won’t sink in, but it’s comfy to lounge. Plus, there are side pillows to create an even cozier space. 

Like the DreamSofa Bordeaux, the Apt2B Avalon’s back cushions are detachable and flippable. This means you can reach deep corners when cleaning, and you can flip the cushions, keeping them fresher for longer. 

For customization, Apt2B allows you to only choose your preferred fabric. But you have 55-60 options, which include durable fabrics that resist stains, spills, and wear. 

Each Avalon is delivered free of charge and is delivered to your room (but you can get white glove delivery for a small fee). However, you may have to wait a while as it ships in 8-12 weeks. 

Key features

• Simple elegant design with wraparound wood base
• Seat cushions are high-density foam
• Includes side pillows
• Solid wood frame
• Removable and reversible cushions 
• Available in 54 fabric options and 2 leg finishes

Pros	Cons
✅ Very stylish ✅ Space-friendly design makes it perfect for small spaces  ✅ The sofa retains its shape well ✅ Very durable piece ✅ Upholstery material holds up well against life’s messes  ✅ Gives you 60 days to test the sofa	❌ Limited customization options   ❌ Long lead times ❌ Cushions are often firmer than expected

What customers say

Customers mention that the Avalon’s build feels solid. You’ll find people saying that it looks sturdy and well-made. Some customers were even more specific, explaining that they have kids who jump on the sofa, but that the cushions bounce back immediately.

Some people also appreciated its compact size, saying it is perfect where space is limited.

9. Maiden Home Breuer Modular Sofa: Best for large spaces

The Breuer modular sofa from Maiden Home is a bold and graphic piece that draws inspiration from brutalist designs. It commands attention with its wide arms, tightly upholstered form, and sprawling presence.

On the comfort front, the Breuer is inviting. Its low-lying form practically begs you to crawl in. Seat and back cushions feature high‑density foam cores wrapped in fiber, creating a firm yet plush feel. And lumbar pillows provide an extra layer of comfort.

The Breuer is a modular couch, giving you the flexibility of moving pieces around to create different seating layouts. You can have it as a three-seater in one minute, and the next, split it into two separate seats.   

In terms of customization, you have the option of low or higher armrests (with low arms making it feel more open, and higher arms giving a cozier, enclosed feel). You can also choose from 50+ fabric options, including several performance velvets offering a luxe feel and serious durability. 

The Breuer is ready for delivery in 5 weeks, and white glove delivery is available for a small fee. For returns, you have only 30 days to see if the sofa works for you, and a 10% restocking fee applies when returning it. 

Key features

• Has a bold and sprawling form 
• Low to the ground silhouette
• Modular sofa
• Tight seat and back with a high‑density foam core wrapped in fiber 
• Lumbar pillows included
• An optional matching ottoman is available 
• Available in 50+ upholstery fabrics

Pros	Cons
✅ A very striking design ✅ Very roomy  ✅ Low seats allow easy lounging ✅ It holds its shape well ✅ You can rearrange its modular pieces into different seating configurations or add pieces for more seating space  ✅ Built strong for long-term durability  ✅ Fabrics are family-friendly  ✅ Get free fabric samples to test the upholstery fabric	❌ Not suitable for small spaces ❌ Limited customization options   ❌ Return window is only 30 days, and a restocking fee applies ❌ Initial assembly may be challenging  ❌ Cushions are on the firm side

What customers say

Some customers love the generous proportions of the Maiden Home Breuer sofa, saying that it is roomy and perfect for stretching out. Others love that they were able to order a matching ottoman, saying it allows them to create a chaise section that transforms the sofa into a lounge haven.

Many happy customers also love the impressive look of the Breuer, saying it easily became the centerpiece of the main living area.   

10. Sixpenny Dalia Sofa: Best for evolving homes that need a slipcovered sofa

If you want a sofa that looks soft and lived‑in, yet possesses a clean, thoughtful aesthetic, take a look at the Dalia sofa from Sixpenny. With a fixed seat, slim rolled arms, and wider-than-usual pleated skirt, it stays true to Sixpenny’s signature relaxed elegance.

But behind the playful silhouette is solid craftsmanship and comfort. Frames are made of hardwood and have solid joinery. There are two cushion fill options for your preferred comfort (a poly fill for a more supportive seat, and a feather-down blend for sink-in coziness).

Plenty of throw pillows add extra softness, and its deep seats offer enough room for curling up or sprawling out. 

Sixpenny doesn’t allow much customization. Besides choosing your Dalia’s size, you can only customize its looks by choosing from 35+ fabric options. Thankfully, the Dalia is slipcovered. So, you may buy different sets of slipcovers to change the look at any time. 

You will get the Dalia sofa in 10 – 11 weeks after ordering. It’ll be delivered to the front of your house for free, and for a small fee, you get white glove delivery. You’ll have 30 days to love the sofa or return it, and a restocking fee may apply. 

Key features

• Deep seats
• Available in three size options
• Plush throw pillows included 
• Customizable comfort
• Hardwood frame with corner blocks and a spring system for seat support 
• Removable slipcovers
• Available in 35+ upholstery materials

Pros	Cons
✅ Offers relaxed aesthetics ✅ Deep seats give comfortable lounging ✅ Cushions offer good comfort ✅ It’s well built ✅ Maintenance is easier with its removable slipcovers ✅ You can easily give your sofa a new look by swapping slipcovers  ✅ Upholstery material is durable and holds up well against stains and spills ✅ You can order free swatches	❌ Limited customization options   ❌ Return window is only 30 days, and a restocking fee applies ❌ Long wait times ❌ Relatively expensive

What customers say

Customers love that the Sixpenny Dalia sofa comes with removable slipcovers. You’ll find many customers saying that the sofa’s slipcovers allow them to switch the mood of their home at any time. One day, they have their Dalia sporting calm neutral tones, and the next, they have it dressed in bold hues that bring more character to the space. 

Others highlight how the slipcovers make maintaining the Dalia very easy. Owners report easily blotting out stubborn stains by simply removing the covers and tossing them into a washer.

What to consider before buying a sofa online

Now that you’ve seen our favorite sofas to buy online, you may be wondering how we arrived at them. Here’s what to consider before buying a sofa online:

Ensure it fits

No matter how beautiful or comfortable a sofa is, it will be a disaster if it can’t get through your front door or fit your space. For this reason, you should measure your space properly before clicking the buy button. 

Take note of the sofa dimensions and ensure that it will fit into your space. Ensure you have about 18 inches of clearance around the sofa for free movement.

You should also measure your hallway, stairways, front door, and other areas the sofa will pass through to get into your space. This ensures you’ll be able to get the couch into the room.

Choose a style that complements your interior

You’ll want your sofa to look good. Since you have to see it every day, it should be a gorgeous piece you’ll enjoy looking at. And when guests visit, you’d rather they gush over its beauty rather than simply look away without saying a word.

While looks matter, any stylish sofa will not cut it. Remember that your sofa is just one piece in your interior decor. If it complements your existing style, everything will feel cohesive, intentional, and put-together. 

But one that clashes with your style will throw the whole room off balance. Therefore, you should consider the vibe of your space when choosing a sofa style.

For example, if your space is modern, opt for sofas with clean lines, geometric shapes, and simple silhouettes. But if your space leans traditional, opt for sofas with rolled arms, tuftings, and elegant details.

Evaluate comfort

You will not enjoy your sofa if it feels like a rock when you sink into it. Thus, comfort is so important when considering sofas. However, when you buy modern sofas online, you cannot sit-test their comfort level as you can when buying in-store. This is where understanding of cushioning materials is important.

High-density foam cushion fill offers firmer, more supportive seating that holds its shape over time. Feather- or down-filled cushions offer ultra-soft, sink-in coziness, but they require regular fluffing to maintain their shape. 

However, many options use hybrid fills, featuring a high-density foam core wrapped in a layer of feather or down. These options offer a balance of structure and coziness.  

Also read: 10 Best Deep Seat Couches for Ultimate Comfort. 

Assess the build quality

A stylish and comfortable sofa that breaks down after a few months is not worth it. This is why the interior of a sofa is as important as its exterior. 

Thus, when shopping for sofas online, you should look out for a quality frame, joinery, cushioning, and suspension system. 

For the frame, look for kiln-dried hardwood, as it is less prone to warping and cracking over time. And the best frames are joined with dowels, screws, or corner blocks. 

For the suspension system beneath the cushions, while sinuous S-shaped springs are common, eight-way hand-tied springs are considered the gold standard for quality and long-term support.

DreamSofa shines in this regard as every couch features kiln-dried solid wood frames for durability and 8-gauge sinuous spring suspension for support.

Consider your lifestyle

If you don’t want your sofa looking beaten and worn out quickly, ensure it not only matches your taste, but also your day-to-day reality.     

Thus, before falling in love with that sleek, white linen sofa that looks like it belongs in a luxury showroom, pause and ask yourself: Can my life actually handle this?

If you have a less active home, you may get away with delicate and less durable fabrics like cotton and velvet. But if you have kids who think cushions are trampolines or pets that may turn your furniture into a scratching post, durable fabrics are non-negotiable. 

This is where performance fabrics come in. These materials are engineered to offer a plush feel while being highly resistant to stains, moisture, and wear. Plus, they are easy to clean. 

Also read: 10 Best Stain-Resistant Couches for Easy Maintenance.

Look out for extra functionalities

These days, sofas do more than provide seating space. Many modern sofas come with extra features that make life easier. When forking out good money on a sofa, why go for one that offers just seating when there are options that offer so much more?

Regarding extra features, a popular option is pull-out sleepers that convert the sofa into a bed at night. 

You can build a sleeper into all Dreamsofa sofas and sectional sofas. Each piece features an iconic, jaw-dropping design; you’d never know it’s a sleeper. The sofa-to-bed transition is effortless and noiseless. 

Some other extra features to look out for include hidden storage for keeping things away, and integrated USB charging ports, which allow you to power your devices without leaving the couch. You’ll find these in DreamSofa modular sofas.

Consider the customization options

You don’t want your sofa to be some generic option. You’d like it to reflect your personal taste and lifestyle. This is why customization is essential. 

And by customization, we’re not talking about just picking between beige and grey. Many furniture brands offer a wide range of customization options that go beyond just picking color. 

DreamSofa is a champion in this regard, as it offers fully customizable sofas and sectionals. When you buy a DreamSofa sofa, you can customize the fabric types and colors, leg finishes, arm styles, arm height, seat depth, seat height, overall width, cushion firmness, and more. 

In fact, you can customize virtually every aspect of your sofa, ensuring it fits your personal style and taste.

Tips for buying sofas online without regret

Now that you know what to look out for when shopping for sofas online, here are tips to help you make a final decision and avoid the pitfalls of luxury sofas online shopping: 

Outline the sofa’s layout on your floor

It’s not enough for a sofa to fit in your room. It’s also important that it does not overwhelm the space, else your room will feel cluttered. To ensure the beauty you’re considering will not overwhelm your space, use masking tape to outline its layout on your floor. 

This allows you to visualize how much space the sofa will occupy. You’ll see clearly whether it crowds walkways, blocks windows, or limits access to other essentials (such as side tables, a center table, or that floor lamp you love).

Read reviews

Sofa manufacturers will only have good things to say about their products. Since buying online means you cannot physically test the sofa, it helps to hear from real people who have owned and experienced it. 

This is why customer reviews should be one of your most valuable tools. And don’t stop at reviews on the manufacturer’s website. Also, check independent review platforms. 

Look out for what people are saying about the couch. Are they saying it is comfortable? Are they saying the cushions sag? What are they saying about its durability? If there’s a pattern (whether good or bad), believe it. 

Order fabric swatches 

You definitely will look at a sofa’s photos before falling for it. However, these photos can lie. Not intentionally, though. Lighting changes how colors appear. For example, that “cream” sofa might be straight up yellow under your home’s lights. 

Thus, if you don’t want to buy a sofa whose color you’ll come to hate, order fabric swatches. The manufacturer will send you a piece of the actual sofa fabric. Test this by seeing how the color looks in your home’s natural daylight and under artificial light at night. If you like it, you’re good to go.

Fabric swatches also let you test the fabric’s texture and practicality. You can rub your hand on the fabric and gauge whether it’s something you’ll enjoy lying on or not. 

For practicality testing, you can spill something on the fabric to see how easily it cleans up. This simple step can prevent a maintenance headache, especially for homes with pets and/or kids.

Understand delivery details

Not understanding delivery details can turn a furniture purchase into a nightmare. This means understanding what kind of delivery is offered and how long it’ll take to get your sofa.

For example, “free delivery” might mean “dropped on the sidewalk in front of your building.” Now, imagine the frustration if you live on the 5th floor and have no one to help you carry the sofa up.

That said, if you need help with getting the sofa into your room, look for in-room delivery or white glove delivery. 

With in-room, they’ll deliver the sofa to the room you want it, and leave you to figure the rest out. But with white glove delivery, they’ll get it to the room, unwrap it, set it up exactly where you want it, and remove all packaging. Some brands charge extra for these special deliveries, so always find out if you need to pay extra.

And because you won’t like to wait endlessly for your sofa to arrive, you should also check estimated delivery times.

Delivery is one of the many areas in which DreamSofa shines. There is a free white-glove delivery & expert customer support on most of the sofas. No extra charges for stairs or tight spaces. 

Secondly, DreamSofa offers industry-leading custom speed. In an industry where custom furniture can take months to get delivered, your fully custom DreamSofa sofa ships in just 3–5 weeks. 

Know the return policy

Yes, it can come down to returning a sofa. And returning a sofa isn’t like returning a pair of jeans. Given a sofa’s bulk and weight, returning one can be expensive. 

This is why it’s important to check the return policy before you buy. Don’t wait until you need to return a sofa before you check the return policy. Before making a furniture purchase, always ensure that the brand offers generous and customer-friendly returns.

What to look out for? Check the return window. How much time from the time of purchase (or delivery) do you have to make a return? Check to see if you’ll receive a full refund or just store credit. A refund means you can go to another brand for your purchase, while store credits mean you must buy from the same brand. 

Also, check to see how much returns will cost you. Return shipping can cost hundreds of dollars. Know who pays for this. Also, check whether the brand charges a restocking fee.

Knowing all these can help you shop with confidence or steer clear if things appear too risky.

Check warranty details

A solid warranty offers peace of mind, as only manufacturers confident about the quality of their couches provide such. When you’re spending serious money on a sofa, why should you trust one that its manufacturer does not trust enough to back it with a solid warranty?

Look for warranties on the frame and cushion core. This is another area in which DreamSofa stands out. While many brands offer a 5 – 10-year frame warranty, DreamSofa provides a lifetime frame warranty, showing that the couches are built for life.

Understand the assembly situation

Sofas used to come as fully assembled, one-piece units. But in this era of online furniture shopping and convenient shipping, that’s no longer always the case. 

To make shipping and delivery more efficient, many modern sofas come in separate parts (detachable back, legs that need to be attached, arms that need to be attached, or cushions packed separately). 

Thus, when buying furniture online, understand whether assembly is required. If yes, make sure you understand the process and whether you can handle it yourself or need help. 

Don’t let price be your only driver

It’s tempting to go for the cheapest sofa you can find.  But remember the adage: “Buy cheap, buy twice.” That cheap sofa may break down quickly, requiring you to buy a new sofa sooner. 

A well-constructed sofa may cost more initially, but it can last you a decade or more. 

However, this does not mean your furniture purchase should cost you an arm and a leg. You can find quality yet affordable couches online. DreamSofa is also a winner here. With no bloated margins and a direct-to-consumer pricing (no middlemen, no showrooms, no makeup), DreamSofa is able to offer luxury without a luxury price tag.

Take advantage of risk-free trials

Who doesn’t like free trials? You get to use the product for a while, and if you don’t love it, you can return it. Yes, the top online furniture stores offer free trials on their couches.

To ensure you don’t buy a luxury sofa online today and regret it later, consider purchasing from brands that offer risk-free trials. DreamSofa offers a 100-night risk-free trial on sleepers / 100-day trial on DreamModular™. 

When you purchase a DreamSofa couch (sofa or sectional) with a built-in sleeper or any of its modular designs, you can try it for 100 days. And if you don’t love it, you can return it. No hard feelings.

This is an excellent opportunity to see how the sofa fits your home and lifestyle. You can test out the comfort, see whether it creaks when you sleep on it, etc. It removes the guesswork from online shopping and gives you time to decide whether a sofa belongs in your home.  

Takeaway: Shop sofas online with confidence at DreamSofa 

Buying a sofa online shouldn’t feel like a leap of faith. The 10 sofas discussed above are some of the best you can buy online, as they come with elegant style, luxurious comfort, and long-term durability. 

While each one brings something great to the table (or your living room), the DreamSofa sofa stands out as our top overall pick. 

Not only does the DreamSofa deliver exceptional quality and thoughtfully designed comfort, but it also delivers a level of customization that’s hard to beat. You can tweak every aspect of your DreamSofa sofa until it is exactly how you want it to look and feel.

Need a fully custom sofa that fits your space and personality when shopping for furniture online? Grab the Bordeaux from DreamSofa today!

FAQs

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about buying sofas online: 

Which brand makes the highest quality sofas?

DreamSofa comes out as the best furniture brand when it comes to high-quality sofas, as it combines exceptional craftsmanship with premium materials and impressive customization options. The sofas show attention to both structure and comfort and are built to last. Other well-known brands trusted for their quality include Burrow, Joybird, Interior Define, and American Leather.

What should I look for when buying a sofa online?

When buying a sofa online, start by taking note of its size and measuring your room to ensure it fits your space. Then, check for solid frames and joinery, quality cushion filling and suspension system, and durable upholstery materials. 

This tells you that the sofa is well-made and will stand the test of time. You may also want to check for customization options that allow you to tailor the sofa to your taste. 

Lastly, customer reviews, customer-friendly return policies, and solid warranties are also important, as they can make you shop with more confidence.

How do I know the sofa dimensions will fit my space?

Measure everything. Start by measuring your space. Then, use masking tape or a painter’s tape to outline the sofa’s dimensions on your floor. 

This helps you visualize the space the sofa will take up, and it will work with other elements in the room (such as whether it blocks windows and leaves space for other furniture). Also, measure your front door, hallway, and staircase, to ensure you can bring the sofa through these spaces to get to your house.

Can I trust the quality of furniture ordered online?

Yes. If you shop smart, you can find sofas with enduring quality online. Stick with a reputable brand (like DreamSofa) known for quality craftsmanship and materials. To ensure you’re getting the highest quality when shopping online, look at materials and construction details on the product description page. Also, look out for solid warranties and read customer reviews to see what people are saying about the product.

What’s the return policy usually like for online sofas?

Return policies for sofas vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. Many brands allow customers 30 – 100 days to try the couch at home and return it if they don’t love it. DreamSofa goes for the longest, offering a 100-day trial so that you can live with it well and be happy with your purchase. When it comes to the fine print, some brands offer free returns, while others may charge for return shipping and/or restocking. 

Are there specific brands known for good online sofa delivery?

Brands like DreamSofa, Burrow, Article, and Inside Weather are known for reliable and fast online sofa delivery. However, DreamSofa is a winner in this regard. Not only does DreamSofa have clear delivery timelines, but we also offer industry-leading custom speed, delivering your fully custom sofa to you in just 4 weeks. Plus, while many brands charge you for white glove delivery, this comes standard on all sofas.

Should I choose fabric or leather when buying online?

The choice between fabric and leather is a personal one that should depend on your lifestyle and budget. 

Fabrics are softer, more breathable, and available in more colors and textures, making them great for creating cozy spaces. Plus, they are more budget-friendly. 

While leather comes at a higher price tag and fewer color options, it is more durable than standard fabrics, ages well, and is easy to clean as spills wipe off easily. However, performance fabrics now rival leather’s durability and ease of maintenance.

How long does delivery typically take for an online sofa?

Delivery times for online sofas depend on the brand and whether the sofa is in stock or made to order. Generally, in-stock pieces ship in one or two weeks, while made-to-order pieces can take between 4 and 10 weeks. This is why buying online from DreamSofa is a smart choice, as delivery takes 4 – 5 weeks. 

Can I get a warranty or trial period on an online sofa purchase?

Yes. Many brands offer warranties that cover the frame and cushion, which typically last 1-10 years, depending on the brand (DreamSofa provides a lifetime warranty on the frames). A few brands offer trial periods in addition to warranties, where you can return the sofa within a certain window (like DreamSofa’s 100-day trial on the sleeper and modular couches).