Affordable Sofas Don’t Have to Feel Cheap—We Tested the Best Under $1,600

Name: Neche Solid Wood Corner Loveseat
Brand: Walmart
Price: 159 USD

Starting at $159

By Sydney Meister

•

Updated Sep 24, 2025

PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and some items may be gifted to us. Additionally, PureWow may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here.

Wayfair/Wade Logan

Shopping for a sofa (especially one that won’t bankrupt you) is a balancing act. Go too cheap, and you end up with something that feels like dorm furniture—wobbly frames, cushions that pancake after a week, fabric that pills if you so much as look at it. And here’s the kicker: Those bargain-bin builds will almost always cost you more in the long run. Comfortable cushions? Forget it. Most budget sofas skip the high-density foam or coil support, so the seats lose any semblance of ‘plump.’ Performance fabrics? Not a chance—you’ll usually get thin polyester that clings to pet hair and snags after a season. Suddenly, you’re spending hundreds to replace a “cheap” sofa every 18 months instead of investing once in a piece with durable materials that actually hold their shape. In other words: Affordable doesn’t mean disposable—it means finding a sofa that’s comfortable and built to last.

Here’s the good news: You don’t have to spend $5,000 to find a couch that’s comfortable, durable and beautiful. Every pick on this list clocks in under $1,600 and has been tested by PureWow editors in their own homes. Whether it’s a reversible sectional that adapts to a new apartment layout, a bouclé loveseat that’s pulled from your Instagram Explore page or a kid-approved microfiber sofa that’s survived yogurt spills and popsicle drips, these are the couches that actually deliver.

The Most Affordable Sofas We Tested at a Glance

Best Sofa Overall

Wade Logan Brinae Loveseat

~~$720~~; $650 AT WAYFAIR

Best Modular Sofa

Burrow Union Sofa

FROM ~~$1,699~~; $1,359 AT BURROW

Most Compact Sofa

George Oliver Julizza Loveseat

FROM ~~$180~~; $160 AT WAYFAIR

Best Sofa Bed

Article Sven Tufted Sofa Bed

FROM $1,599 AT ARTICLE

Best Reversible Sofa

West Elm Eddy Reversible Sectional

FROM ~~$1,699~~; $1,359 AT WEST ELM

How We Tested Each Sofa

To separate the “actually worth it” sofas from the throwaways, I asked PureWow editors to live with these couches for weeks (in some cases, years). Each sofa had to meet baseline standards: a minimum width of about 49 inches (so it’s not a glorified chair), cushions with high-density foam or resilient polyfill (no sad pancake seats) and upholstery that could withstand daily use without looking ragged. We paid close attention to fabrics—bouclé, microfiber, linen weaves, chenilles, performance velvets—making sure they were abrasion-tested, easy to spot clean and resistant to sagging.

We also evaluated comfort (seat depth, firmness and whether the cushions softened without collapsing), dimensions (would it overwhelm a small apartment or fit a family of four?), and overall design. The goal wasn’t just to find sofas that were cheap; it was to find ones that feel high-end in your space—classic silhouettes, versatile colorways and materials that won’t wear out in a year or two.

Wayfair

Best Sofa Overall

1. Wade Logan Brinae Loveseat

What We Like

Soft, textured bouclé feels luxe (and resists spills/wear)
Cushions balance bounce and support
Includes four matching toss pillows
Ships fully assembled

What We Don't Like

Occasional loose threads
Compact size is better for apartments/ small living rooms

Wade Logan

Finding a $650 loveseat that looks modern, feels comfortable and doesn’t instantly pill is basically a design unicorn—but this one pulls it off. It’s wrapped in a soft, textured bouclé that not only looks far more high-end than its price tag suggests, but also resists spills and wear (a rarity at this price point). Assistant Editor Courtney Mason backs that up: “There hasn’t been any noticeable wear and tear. Sometimes, I’ll notice a loose thread or two, but the fabric is still in pristine condition.” And the surprise is in the cushions. At first glance, the tight seat looks like it might be too firm, but Courtney says it has “a bouncier feel due to the springs and padding. I’d give it a three out of five on the firm scale (five being hard as a rock).” That mix of high-density foam and individually wrapped coils means it’s supportive without being stiff—just upright enough for sipping coffee, but cushy enough for a midday nap.

Beyond that, the silhouette is clean and modern, with curved arms that soften the boxy frame and make it feel less “big box furniture” and more like something you’d see in a designer’s big “after” reveal. “My roommate and I usually prefer classic sofas that you can sink into instead of modern designs, but we both found ourselves lounging and relaxing on this one more than we thought we would. Even napping didn’t leave us with back pains,” per Courtney. Better yet, four matching toss pillows are included (another shock at this price), and since it ships fully assembled, you can skip the Allen wrench meltdown entirely.

Fast Facts

Dimensions: 67.5”W x 31”H x 32”D
Delivery & assembly: Arrives fully assembled
Fabric options: Bouclé (performance blend)
Color options: Beige, Dark Gray, Green, Light Gray, Taupe

~~$720~~; $650 AT WAYFAIR

Burrow

Best Modular Sofa

2. Burrow Union Sofa

What We Like

Modular design lets you expand or downsize without buying new
Cushions are supportive + soft bounce
Stain-resistant chenille fabric
Walk-up–friendly delivery (boxes fit through tight hallways)

What We Don't Like

Limited fabric/color range
Assembly is simple but time-intensive for larger sectionals
Arms are fixed (not customizable like some modular competitors)

Burrow

The Union collection is proof that “modular” doesn’t have to mean overpriced—or uncomfortable. I tested it firsthand, starting with the five-seat sectional and later transforming it into a three-seater when I moved apartments. That’s the beauty of this sofa—you don’t have to buy new every time your layout changes. Each seat ships in manageable boxes, connects with a pin-and-lever mechanism, and clicks together without power tools, so you can scale it up or down depending on where life takes you. Price-wise, it’s just as flexible: $1,359 for the two-seater, $1,839 for the three-seater, up to $3,359 for a five-seat sectional.

And comfort doesn’t get lost in the modular shuffle. The proprietary three-layer foam cushions give you a supportive, sink-in feel on the surface, with just enough bounce to keep movie nights from turning stiff. (At 35 inches deep, it’s also generous enough to curl up without feeling oversized.) But the real selling point is in the materials: chunky pillows, clean lines, customizable wood legs (walnut or oak) and four fabric colors in a silky, stain-resistant chenille. I went with the cream, which has already survived countless red wine spills with nothing more than a dab of Laundress stain solution. Add a solid wood frame that won’t wobble or creak, and you’ve got a sofa that can flex with your life and actually last.

Fast Facts

Dimensions: 70" L x 39" D x 31.5" H (larger sizes available)
Delivery and assembly: Ships in compact boxes; tool-free pin-and-lever assembly
Fabric options: Performance chenille
Color options: Cream, Gray, Navy, Charcoal

FROM ~~$1,699~~; $1,359 AT BURROW

Wayfair

Most Compact Sofa

3. George Oliver Julizza Loveseat

What We Like

Ultra-compact footprint (49”)
Thick, cushy back and side cushions
Upholstery comes in seven trendy colors
Quick, five-minute assembly—no tools required

What We Don't Like

Seat leans firm (better for upright sitting than sinking in)
Not built for long-term/heavy use like higher-end sofas

Wayfair

Finding a compact sofa under $250 (that isn’t a total throwaway) is rare. But Associate Commerce Editor Natalie LaBarbera raves: “The cushions on both the sides and back are super cushy, so they’re comfy to sink into after a long day—and it feels bigger than I expected.” At just 49 inches wide, it’s the smallest option on this list, yet the oversized side and back cushions make it feel roomier than its footprint suggests. The seat leans firmer—“it could be a bit softer, IMO,” she admits—but the high-density foam core wrapped in polyester batting gives it structure and bounce that won’t pancake after a few months.

The design is clean-lined and versatile, upholstered in a soft polyester fabric that comes in seven color options (from neutral gray and beige to playful pink and yellow). Natalie also calls out how seamless the setup was: “I picked up this sofa on Black Friday and was so impressed with it for the price. It took me no more than five minutes to assemble, and I could easily do it on my own.” That, combined with the compact footprint and cushy feel, makes it an obvious pick for first apartments, small studios or anyone who wants an easy, budget-friendly upgrade without the stress of moving a giant couch.

Fast Facts

Dimensions: 49”W x 28”D x 30”H; seat height 17”
Delivery and assembly: Ships to your door; tool-free assembly in under 10 minutes
Fabric options: Polyester upholstery
Color options: Black, Brown, Dark Gray, Green, Light Gray, Pink, Yellow

FROM ~~$180~~; $160 AT WAYFAIR

Article

Best Sofa Bed

4. Article Sven Tufted Sofa Bed

What We Like

10-inch-high, full-size mattress is comfortable (no bar-in-your-back)
High-density foam + polyester fiber cushions
Linen, velvet and bouclé performance fabrics
Mid-century design with tufted bench

What We Don't Like

On the pricier side compared to other options on this list
Cushions lean on the firmer side (better for support than sinking in)

Article

Here, another rare find: a sofa bed that looks like a design piece but feels comfortable enough to allow for actual, restful sleeping. The Sven unfolds in 30 seconds—no clunky mechanics, no metal bar digging into your back—and reveals a full-size, 10-inch-high mattress. As Sally Herrod, Senior Director of SEO & Product, explains in her review: “Both sleeper cushions are connected and sit flush to the ground, so there’s no gap or bar in your back. It’s super comfortable.” Plus, as a sofa, it delivers that same balance: the bench cushion is filled with high-density foam and polyester fiber that gives a firm, structured sit at first touch but relaxes into just enough give to feel cozy. In Sally’s words, it’s “structured, not punishing”—ideal if you want support without the board-like feel of an ultra-firm couch.

And then there’s the design. With its tufted single-seat cushion, slim arms and included bolster pillows, it channels mid-century polish while still feeling plush. More importantly, you’re not locked into one fabric: The Sven comes in durable performance textiles that are abrasion-tested for more than double the industry standard. Think bouclé (like Biscuit Cream or Ivory Wool) for texture, performance fabric (Napa Charcoal, Silver Light Blue) for stain resistance, plush velvet (Cascadia Blue, Pacific Green) for drama and even custom performance velvets (like Hale Warm Gray). “The couch looks great, and it definitely doesn’t look like the typical sofa bed,” per Sally. “It’s super solid and well-made. No creaking, no sagging and you can tell it will hold its shape for years to come.” That range means you can choose a version that feels elevated and suits your lifestyle, whether you want cozy texture, bold statement color, or easy-clean practicality.

Fast Facts

Dimensions: 88”W x 35”D x 34”H
Delivery and assembly: Free front-door delivery with white-glove and in-room delivery upgrades available
Fabric options: Polyester-acrylic blend, performance-blend, wool bouclé or performance velvet
Color options: Neutrals (Biscuit Cream, Stone Gray, Ivory Wool and more), Earth tones (Fir Green, Napa Rust, Pacific Brown, Silver Light Blue and more)

FROM $1,599 AT ARTICLE

West Elm

Best Reversible Sofa

5. West Elm Eddy Reversible Sectional

What We Like

Reversible chaise adapts to different layouts (74” and 90”)
Cushions stay plump and sag-free
Durable upholstery options for everyday wear
Sleek silhouette with slim arms and tailored lines

What We Don't Like

Cushions rated 5/5 on firmness scale (not for anyone who wants a sink-in feel)
Only two sizes available

West Elm

The Eddy’s biggest strength is right in the name: It’s reversible. The chaise can flip to either side, so the layout adapts whether you’re reconfiguring a room or moving apartments. Executive Editor Alexia Dellner has had the 74-inch version for nearly a decade (also available in 90 inches) and says, “It’s the perfect balance of comfy yet sturdy.” That sturdiness comes from the cushions—rated as a five out of five on West Elm’s firmness scale—where they’re made with high-resiliency polyurethane foam wrapped in a polyester fiber blend. They may feel firmer at first sit, but that structure is what allows them to soften without collapsing (so the sofa stays plump and sag-free for years).

As for the design, the silhouette leans modern and tailored, with slim arms and clean lines that make it versatile enough for a city apartment or a family living room. From there, you can layer in your choice of upholstery—easy-clean linen weaves, plush chenilles, or performance velvets—all abrasion-tested to resist pilling and sagging. As Alexia says, “It’s been through a lot—guests sleeping on it, kids making forts, hundreds (thousands?) of hours of lounging—but it still looks great!” She adds that the fabric is “easy to clean,” making it an even safer bet for families, pets, or wine-night spills.

Fast Facts

Dimensions: 74”W x 62”D x 33”H or 90”W x 62”D x 33”H
Delivery and assembly: White-glove delivery included
Fabric options: Linen weaves, twills, or performance velvets
Color options: Neutrals (Pearl Gray, Sand, Frost Gray), Earth tones (Camel, Tarragon, Evergreen), and deeper shades like Ink Blue or Midnight

FROM ~~$1,699~~; $1,359 AT WEST ELM

Article

Best Bouclé Sofa

6. Article Kayra Sofa

What We Like

Bouclé fabric resists snagging and even stands up to cat claws
Cushions are padded and comfortable for everyday lounging
Slim silhouette with rounded arms and elevated legs
Easy to style as a statement piece or everyday sofa

What We Don't Like

Less cozy than feather-filled sofas (better for structure than sink-in lounging)
Only one colorway

Article

Bouclé may be the “it” fabric of the decade, but anyone who’s lived with it knows it can snag, shed or look worn faster than you can say teddy bear chic. But not with this guy. Former PureWow editor Nicole Briese tested it in her own home and was floored by the durability: “Unlike other bouclé couches that tend to snag or show wear, the Kayra’s teddy coat-like fabric holds up against daily use—and even the sharpest cat claws.” In fact, after her cat took multiple swipes at the upholstery, she admitted, “Try as I might, I could not discern the spot where my cat’s sharp little hooks had pulled up fabric and where the natural tufts were lifted. I could have wept with joy.”

And it isn’t just pet-proof—it’s people-friendly, too. The cushions are padded enough to sink into without collapsing, offering everyday comfort you don’t always get from a style-first sofa. As Nicole puts it: “It’s plenty comfy enough for daily use, with more than sufficient padding at both the back and seat, and I find myself gravitating to it even when I’m not watching television just to work.” Add in its slim silhouette, rounded arms, and elevated legs, and you get a sofa that nails the bouclé trend without breaking the bank.

Fast Facts

Dimensions: 31" H x 87" W x 45.5" D
Delivery and assembly: Free front-door delivery, white-glove and in-room delivery upgrades available
Fabric options: Performance bouclé (polyester blend)
Color options: Ivory

FROM $1,299 AT ARTICLE

RAYMOUR & FLANIGAN

Best Sofa for Kids and Pets

7. Raymour & Flanigan Artemis Loveseat

What We Like

Microfiber upholstery resists spills, stains and everyday wear
Nearly 24-inch seat depth
Cushions balance spring and support
Available as a loveseat, sofa, or fully customizable sectional

What We Don't Like

Traditional style may feel less modern
Bulkier roll-arms may overwhelm smaller rooms

RAYMOUR & FLANIGAN

Speaking of durability—Rachel Bowie, Senior Director of Special Projects and Royals, calls this sofa “a game-changer for parents due to one simple thing: Microfiber.” The material looks luxe but is wildly forgiving—“you can eliminate the most common kid-related stains—yogurt, Cheerio debris, a melted popsicle—with a single swipe of a mild water-based solvent. (I just use a paper towel and water in most cases.)” She adds that this isn’t a one-off miracle: “Microfiber holds up to wear and tear. This is our second microfiber couch from Raymour & Flanigan—the first one lasted 10 years.”

But the fabric is just the cherry on top. With a seat depth just shy of 24 inches, it’s roomy enough to stretch out, yet structured enough for sitting upright. “You’ll sink into the seat whether you’re stretching out on the loveseat or sitting up straight,” Rachel says. “There’s a springy-ness to the cushions, too, which help them hold their shape, but also supply loads of back support.” Translation: this isn’t a saggy sofa, but one designed to hold up year after year. And because durability also means flexibility, the Artemis is available in multiple sizes—loveseat, three-seater sofa, or a fully customizable sectional you can build to fit your space. With 18 microfiber shades (think everything from smoky grays to bold scarlets), it’s a true workhorse for families who want a couch that won’t cave under real life.

Fast Facts

Dimensions: 65”L x 39”W x 35”H (various sizes available)
Delivery & assembly: White-glove delivery included
Fabric options: Microfiber
Color options: 18 microfiber shades (Gypsy Graphite, Sage, Scarlet, Teal, Navy, and more)

FROM ~~$1,250~~; $1,187 AT RAYMOUR & FLANIGAN

Walmart

Best Velvet Sofa

8. Neche Solid Wood Corner Loveseat

What We Like

Ultra affordable at ~$158
Bench cushion makes it easy to seat three without “the crack”
Compact size fits in tight living/dining combos
Solid wood frame supports up to 700 lbs

What We Don't Like

Back support is limited—the backrest sits lower than the cushions
Velvet isn’t spill-proof (spot cleaning required)
Occasional loose threads over time

Walmart

Budget sofas usually mean compromises, but at $158, this one punches way above its weight. Former Editor Delia Curtis puts it best: “As someone who lives in a duplex with three other people and very limited space, this loveseat ended up being exactly what we needed and fit perfectly into our micro living room/kitchen set up.” The design plays a big role in that. Upholstered in soft velvet with a tufted, single-seat cushion and two matching bolster pillows, it channels a mid-century look while still feeling plush enough for everyday use. And unlike a lot of under $200 finds, the structure isn’t flimsy: the solid wood frame and tapered legs hold up to 700 pounds, while the high-density foam and coil springs give it that cushiony-yet-supportive bounce.

Delia was just as surprised by the quality. “Comfortable, soft, cushiony, this was a piece we are surprised has held up so well. For only about $150, we have definitely got a bang for our buck,” she says. She also points out that the uninterrupted cushion makes it easy for three people to sit side by side—no one falling into the dreaded crack—while the wide armrests and removable bolsters add a little flexibility. The one drawback? “The back of the couch is lower than the back cushions, so there isn’t as much back support as we would like. I think that could easily be fixed with a plywood board or something.” Still, for a sofa that assembles in minutes and has survived the chaos of a four-person duplex, it’s an undeniable steal.

Fast Facts

Dimensions: 59” W x 18” H x 20” D
Delivery and assembly: Ships compact; simple, tool-free assembly in under 20 minutes
Fabric options: Velvet upholstery (polyester blend)
Color options: Black, Blue, Grey, Green

~~$270~~; $159 AT WALMART

Where Can I Find Good-Quality, Cheap Couches?

You don’t have to dumpster dive on Facebook Marketplace to score a deal. Some of the best affordable sofas come from big-box retailers and DTC brands with smart design. On this list alone, we tested the $650 Wade Logan Brinae Loveseat (Wayfair), the $158 Neche Solid Wood Corner Loveseat (Walmart), the Burrow Union Sofa (from $1,359), the West Elm Eddy Reversible Sectional (from $1,359) and the Raymour & Flanigan Artemis (from $760). Each blends comfort with construction details—like coil-spring cushions, stain-resistant fabrics or solid wood frames—that prove you don’t need a $4,000 budget to sit in style.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a good budget for a couch?

Expect to spend between $200 and $500 for a loveseat or smaller sofa, and up to $1,500 to $2,000 for a sectional. As this story shows, quality couches can be purchased for much less, but those tend to be safe ranges for sofas rated four stars and above.

How do I choose a sofa on a budget?

Comfort should always come first. Ideally, you want cushions with that “crown” feel: firm enough on top to give you structure, with enough give underneath to feel cozy. Washability is just as important—sofas with removable or spot-clean-friendly covers save you from replacing the whole thing after one accident. Then think about scale: too big, and it overwhelms the room; too small, and it never feels lounge-worthy. Stick to simple silhouettes and versatile fabrics, since a timeless design will outlive fleeting trends.

What’s the best affordable sofa for small apartments?

The George Oliver Julizza Loveseat (49 inches wide) is compact enough to fit in a studio without feeling like dollhouse furniture. But generally speaking, loveseats under 60 inches wide are a safe bet—especially if you want something that won’t dominate the room but still feels comfortable. Reversible sectionals like the West Elm Eddy are another smart choice, since you can flip the chaise to whichever side fits your layout. And for anyone living in a walk-up, check the delivery: sofas that ship in manageable boxes and assemble without tools make life much easier (and save you from bribing friends with pizza).

Do affordable sofas last?

They can. A well-constructed budget sofa should last seven to ten years if you choose one with high-resiliency foam or coil cushions, solid wood frames and performance fabrics. The mistake people make is going cheap on materials, which leads to sagging cushions, pilling fabric and squeaky frames in less than two years. Affordable doesn’t have to mean disposable; it just means being smart about what’s under the upholstery.

Sydney Meister

Associate Editor

Writes across all lifestyle verticals, including relationships and sex, home, finance, fashion and beauty
More than five years of experience in editorial, including podcast production and on-camera coverage
Holds a dual degree in communications and media law and policy from Indiana University, Bloomington

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