The best sectional sofas have it all: plenty of seating, endless styles for any home decor, and lots of room to comfortably stretch out. As former Architectural Digest editor Benjamin Reynaert puts it, sectionals allow for “a level of customization akin to bespoke furniture, but without the high-shelf costs that come with building a piece from the ground—or sofa leg—up.” But deciding between just the right sectional versus a sofa can be tough. If you’re worried that sectionals can lean a bit informal or have trouble fitting in tight spaces, you’re not the only one. AD is here to help.

In an era where retailers are all about customization and tailoring, we’ve assembled plenty of editor-vetted options to browse. It’s one thing to talk about the virtues of a piece of furniture and quite another to actually put it to a sit test, especially for a splurge that might cost a few thousand dollars. So we sat—and lay, and jumped, and sprawled—to test dozens of different couches in apartments, suburban homes, and rural farmhouses across the Northeast. AD testers ensured that all the details, from ordering to assembly to nap potential, lived up to our expectations.

Here, 12 editor-tested sectionals that range from a more formal Sabai corner sectional to a plush slipcovered piece from Sixpenny. If you’re looking for an investment piece, our editors gave Article and Interior Define couches high marks. For more family den and living room seating, we also scouted super-comfy modular sofas that will work equally for pet cuddles and movie nights. Now, sit back and read on.

• Best Leather Sectional: Article Sven, $2,699
• Best Midcentury-modern Sectional: Albany Park Park Sectional, $2,089
• Best Low Profile Sectional Sofa: Castlery Jonathan Chaise Sectional, $3,396
• Best Customizable Sectional: Interior Define Gaby, $5,295 $3,971
• Best Slipcovered Sectional: Sixpenny Neva Chaise Sectional, $4,249
• Best Modular Sectional: Lovesac Sactional, $3,832

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Overall couch rating: A

It’s easy to see what makes Sven a best-seller for Canadian retailer Article. Available in fabric upholstery (including velvet) or leather, the tufted, midcentury–inspired silhouette checks all the boxes if you’re looking for a classic sectional couch. Not too soft, not too deep seated, not too small (or too big!) for a family of three, the Sven is what reviewer Audrey Lee calls the “Golidlocks of couches.” Because of its solid construction, it might take a minute or two to get the lived-in look of a well-worn leather sofa, but we have a feeling it will be worth the wait.

“After a year of post-workday naps, movie nights, and lazy days binge watching whatever streaming show TikTok influenced me to watch, the Sven sectional is still in top-notch condition.” —Audrey Lee, commerce editor

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Overall couch rating: A

Albany Park is a relative newcomer to the direct-to-consumer furniture game, founded in 2019 by former NFL player Darryl Sharpton and his wife, Jessica. The brand offers several quick-shipping, easy-to-assemble sectionals-in-a-box that land in the lower range of price points we tested. The Park collection features time-tested midcentury details including the tapered legs and 
slim-profile design that will make it flexible when it comes to working with your existing decor. It’s a solid, family-friendly sofa with just the right amount of elegance.

“I would still rate it an A for quality, since it hasn’t shown any signs of wear and tear. The material is still intact, the sofa is still sturdy, and it looks almost brand-new.” —Terri Williams, contributor

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Overall couch rating: A

The Jonathan Chaise Sectional from Castlery is a modular option with size versatility starting at a two-seater option and going all the way up to a configuration that fits five to six. Perfect for any modern home, this minimalist, low-slung modular sofa is easy to assemble and ideal for homes with pets and children thanks to its soft-edge nature. Plush foam and spring-filled cushions ensure a medium-firm yet cozy place to unwind after a long day.

“Although the sectional was originally an aesthetic purchase, one year in the comfort level matches its looks.” —Rachel Fletcher, commerce director

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Overall couch rating: A-

From a visual perspective, this Interior Define sectional is a standout. So much so that you might not expect it to be comfortable for lounging. While the slimmer profile and elegant shape means it’s not necessarily a sprawl-out-and-watch-movies kind of couch, pretty much every factor of an ID can be customized, so it can be if you want it to! Deeper seats? You can do that. Longer chaise? Yes, that too. And it can be ordered in four lengths, ranging from 91 to 123 inches. Plus, if any part of the process feels overwhelming, Interior Define also provides free design consultations online or in its showrooms located throughout the US so it’s just like having your own interior designer on call.

“This is a sturdy, beautiful, and snug couch that is the centerpiece of any living space, and I’d recommend it to a friend.” —Rachel Kalichman, contributing writer

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Overall couch rating: A

Sabai Design is known for its sustainable approach to furniture—you won’t find chemically-treated upholstery here. In fact, the Essential Corner Sectional uses recycled velvet or upcycled poly. If you want to curate a maximalist vibe like this playful Brooklyn apartment, go for the amber or mustard in the recycled velvet. The pale colorways of the upcycled poly offer a more timeless feel like the sofas in Lana Condor’s peaceful living room. Our tester was influenced by the resurgence of the earth-tone in the color of the year and went with the delicious chocolate hue because it also has a grounding effect on the overall room design.

The mid-size L-shaped sectional fits perfectly in an apartment setting without blocking any doorways, and even allows for space to fit a side table and a lamp. She noted that the seat cushions do feel firm at first, but soften with use. (Unlike couches that can sag or feel like a sinking sand pit.)

“Even if I drop my whole body weight onto it, it doesn’t feel like it’s going to collapse on me—it’s just a nice place to land.” — Lauren Arzbaecher, commerce producer

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Overall couch rating: A

Sixpenny is a eco-friendly brand that’s based on the idea of natural comfort (with fans that include Ashley Tisdale and several digital content creators). In fact, all the company’s seating—like the Neva Chaise Sectional—have ethically sourced down feather–stuffed cushions, frames handcrafted from kiln-dried solid hardwood, and linen-cotton covering options made from luxurious, all-natural materials. While you won’t go wrong with the Neva sectional for your home, know that you can spring for the whole Neva line from Sixpenny as well, which includes a chair, daybed, and even an alternative corner sectional—all with different slipcover options to suit your particular decor style.

“For anyone looking for a big and comfortable sectional, it’s such a winner.”—Zoë Sessums, senior digital design editor

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Overall couch rating: B

You may be tired of hearing us drone on about how adaptable a modular couch can be , but this one may be the most versatile of them all. Enter: Lovesac Sactionals, whose three different base pieces (the Sectional Seat, Wedge Seat, and Storage Seat) can be configured into just about any seating arrangement, from a U-shaped sectional to a traditional L-shaped (and make it easy to convert your configuration into an extra large sectional). What’s more is each Sactionals piece has a removable and machine-washable cover that’s available in more than 200 color options, making it a breeze to replace damaged seating or update your look when you want a change.

“Between working from it and snuggling up with my partner to watch a movie at the end of the day, I spend more time on the couch than I’d care to admit.” —Bailey Berg, contributing writer

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Overall couch rating: A

A sectional sofa for under $1,500—that can’t be comfortable, right? Not the case, according to our reviewer, Elise Portale. In fact, the Breanna bouclé sectional from Wayfair-owned AllModern exceeded all expectations when it came to quality, comfort, and style, leaving Portale a convert to the “White Couch Life.”

“I can say that the Breanna as a design is truly wonderful. If you have the space for it, you’re not going to be disappointed by the size, comfort, and durability—I promise.” —Elise Portale, contributing writer

If you’re looking for a sofa with a modern design that will grow with you, you might want to consider a modular design where seating can be swapped in or out to accommodate changing spaces. Aside from looking great, many brands allow for customization beyond shape, size, and layout, offering modular coffee tables or storage space to be added where needed.

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Overall couch rating: A-

The Burrow is a family-friendly addition to your living spaces no matter what kind of square footage you’re working with. This three-piece sectional that’s just slightly bigger than a loveseat is particularly accommodating to smaller layouts and thoughtfully designed with the flexibility to add more modules to your system should you desire more seating as your family or space changes. Stain-resistant upholstery, solid plywood frame, and CertiPUR-US–certified foam ensures lasting durability and comfort.

“A great starter sofa for a first home or apartment that you won’t have to send to a landfill when you’re ready to move.” —David Kaufman, contributing writer

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Overall couch rating: A

After a disappointing experience with a sectional in a similar size and color—one that was overly stiff, uninviting, and required near-constant cleaning—our tester Shoko and her husband wondered whether it was possible to find a truly comfortable couch that also managed to be attractive, kid-friendly, and made using materials we felt good about.

This Sundays sectional was the upgrade upgrade they were looking for. Designed with clean lines, deep cushions, and just-right balance of softness and structure, it never appears slouchy or sloppy (even with a three-year-old who has taken to practicing high dives and somersaults on it). It’s even been easy to clean smaller messes and the fabric hasn’t pilled or dulled. Added bonus: The Wind Down’s generously sized, moveable ottoman doubles as a handy surface for trays or toys (just double-check measurements in advance to make sure it’ll fit comfortably!).

Clean lines, expert construction, and high-quality upholstery are quintessential to these understated L-shaped sectionals. For something classic that will last a lifetime and work in pretty much any home, read these reviews.

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Overall couch rating: A

What you see is what you get with the West Elm sectional—and we mean that in the very best way. True to the photos and the description, this couch more than delivers on comfort and style. It’s well made with contract-grade materials, it’s super plush (enough so that it can serve as an extra bed for guests), and its design is low-key enough that it can be accessorized to fit in most homes, classic or contemporary.

“My favorite aspect of the sectional is how plush it is. It truly feels like you’re sitting on a cloud.” —Juliana Ukiomogbe, contributing writer

This classic beauty features top-of-the-line upholstery, expert craftsmanship, and the delicate touch that only a slipcover and a little skirt action can provide.

Read the full review

Overall couch rating: A-

Reminiscent of the famed Cloud Couch from RH, the Movie Night product line from Vancouver-based Sundays Company is essentially the Coastal Grandmother in couch form with its easy and breezy slipcovers and relaxed silhouette. As our contributor Emily Farris points out, the performance fabrics can withstand kids and large pets—plus those lovely covers are removable for handwashing or dry-cleaning, and they come in a variety of neutral shades. Feather-filled and built for lounging with extra-deep seats and ample back cushions built around a solid wood frame, the Movie Night is easily one of the best sofas around if you want to kick back with a large group for, among other things, a binge session. If your living room is on the tinier side, but you love the look of the Movie Night family, have no fear: The Condo version of the sectional is designed for smaller spaces.

“It’s big, deep, durable, and super comfortable.” —Emily Farris, contributing writer

Though we don’t have the liberty or the New York real estate to try out all the sectionals in the world, we’d really, really like to. Here’s our wish list of some of the dreamiest sectionals we’ve seen thus far that we like (and think you will, too), but haven’t gotten a chance to check out in person.

There are many factors we considered for each of our reviews to give you the insight you need to select the best sectional sofa for your home, namely the following:

Ordering and customization process: Shallow seats or deep seats, armrests or armless, right-facing chaise or left-facing chaise, down seat cushions or foam cushioning, upholstery or leather, L-shape or U-shape—each of the sectionals we tested has possibilities. We also documented the lead times and expected delivery timelines for each model.

Couch delivery and assembly: Curbside or white-glove, fully assembled or DIY. And, if DIY, how many pieces did the sofa arrive in and how difficult was the assembly?

After installation: Here we asked some tough functionality questions of each sectional: Is it practical for a modern home? Is the couch kid- and/or pet-friendly? What are the care and cleaning instructions? And did it look better IRL than in the photos?

One year update: Where possible, we asked if our testers still stood by their original reviews. Some of the questions we asked included:

• How does the sectional sofa hold up after a full year of use?
• How has your experience been with cleaning the sectional?
• What has been your favorite aspect of the sectional, and is there anything you wish you could change?
• Would you still recommend this product to someone who’s looking to purchase?

Unfamiliar with furniture vernacular? Here are some of the terms you’ll likely come across on your shopping journey and what they mean—along with some topics you should definitely consider before buying.

What's Your Type?

One of the first decision hurdles to jump is deciding what sectional shape you’re in the market for. A big factor in landing on a choice you won’t regret six months from now is taking into account what kind of space you have and how much space you have. From there, comes the nitty gritty details like materials, colors, etc. Below, we’ve outlined the main sectional shapes you’ll come across in your search, as well as AD-approved pointers and styling tips from our archives.

L-shape Sectional: Arguably the most traditional sectional shape, and the one you’ll come across most on this list, L-shaped sectionals are suitable for just about any space. What are some of the advantages of an L-shape sectional? Firstly, they're space maximizers—as their name would suggest, L-shaped furniture can fit snugly into a corner areas, making the most out of your square footage. They lay a great foundation for seating that can easily be upgraded with the addition of a few accent chairs or a statement making armchair (something like an Eames lounger). If you’re looking for styling inspiration, we’d point you in the direction of this Parisian apartment which coordinates the sectional and wall color to create the illusion of a bigger room. We also like the way the L-shaped sofa in this Gramercy Park apartment sections off part of the room to create designated space in an otherwise open layout.

U-shaped sectional: Nine alphabet letters down the line from L, you have U-shaped sectionals. Though these designs are traditionally favored in larger space, they can be adapted to more modest room sizes as well. U-shaped sectionals are ideal for larger families looking for lots of seating as well as the perpetual hosts and hostesses, who want party guests to have a spot to kick back. While we don’t have any true U-shaped sofas on our list, the very modular Lovesac Sactional can be adapted into multiple configurations—including a U-shape. For true U-shape inspiration, look to Stacey Bendet's Upper West Side abode, where a green velvet U-shape sectional with pink piping from Designers Guild serves as the centerpiece in the designer's colorful living room.

Curved Sectional: A cousin of the L-shaped and U-shaped sectional, the curved sectional isn’t bound by static lines. At times it takes on a true "U" design, while we’ve also seen configurations take on a snake-like S-shape. Like an L-shaped sectional, some curved sectionals work nicely in corner spots like this one in Pierre Yovanovitch's Paris office. Curved sofas and sectionals are also unique because they don't necessarily feel out of place in the center of a room, whereas a more angular couch may create an awkward flow. If you think this type of sectional might be your vibe, we'd use the curvaceous seating arrangements in Chrissy Teigen and John Legend's home designed by AD100 designer Jake Arnold as your style inspiration.

Modular Sectional: We consider modular sectionals to be the jack-of-all-trades of the seating world. With a modular arrangement the world is your oyster—want to add more seating to your L-shaped sectional by making it into a U? No problem. Not happy with a sectional all together? Lots of modular designs actually allow you to re-configure your furniture into single and loveseats. Brands like Lovesac and Sundays Furniture allow you to purchase individual pieces to build your own bespoke arrangement, which also allows you to explore different designs down the line should you want an even bigger design. Think: Colman Domingo's impressive Ligne Roset Togo configuration or the Mario Bellini velvet number in this Los Feliz home.

Sofa With Chaise: If you’re not completely sold on the idea of a sectional, a sofa with a chaise is the perfect middle ground. What's great about this option is that there’s no need to agonize over whether a left or right facing chaise works with your space—the detachable chaise allows you to switch to either or whenever you please. If you decide down the line the chaise isn't for you altogether, simply nix it (though we’ve seen it turned into a makeshift coffee table as well). The Sundays Wind Down Modular Sectional is the perfect example of a sofa with chaise that'll allow you freedom when it comes to your sofa. Since it’s also modular and pieces can be purchased separately, you can even build out the design, making it an especially good option for growing families.

Size Matters

Determining the right size sectional for your space is a crucial first step in navigating your shopping excursions. Falling in love with a piece of furniture that feels miniature or will ultimately overwhelm your space can happen to the best of us. In scouring the web in search of the best sectional sofas out there, we’ve determined three size classifications to make shopping a little easier on you:

• Petite: Less than 80 inches long
• Average: 80–110 inches long
• Large: Larger than 110 inches long

How Deep Are Your Seats?

Seat depth is another factor that you’ll want to consider—it’s the distance between the backrest and the outer edge of the seat cushion. There’s no right seat depth, per se, but a deeper-seated sofa is better suited for kicking up your feet or sprawling out, while something more narrow is great if you’re just looking to sit upright. If you’re on the hunt for something extremely specific when it comes to depth, look to brands like Interior Define, who custom make sectionals to your exact preference—with varying options for seat depths, sectional length, and more.

Color Match

While we'd all like to embody the white couch lifestyle, it’s not always practical in our mess-prone world (especially if you’re sharing a home with unpredictable kids or pets). Thankfully advancements in upholstery tech have developed performance fabrics that promise resistance to spills and durability against everyday rough and tumble. Still, landing on a color choice for your next sectional can be a tough decision, and one that you'll likely have to live with for a long time at that. You could easily add a luxurious feel to your space with a jewel-tone velvet à la John Legend and Chrissy Teigan or Vanessa Hudgens. But if you're feeling more traditional, you might find inspiration from neutral picks like Ashley Tisdale's Sixpenny (which you'll find on our list) or Taylor Hill's cloud sofa. Prefer to be on the cutting edge of what's in style? We suggest checking out AD PRO's expertly curated color trend reports to inform you of what's of the moment or help you land on an unconventional pop of color for your living room.

Material World

Bouclé: Our AD Pro editors first noticed bouclé on the rise back in 2020, but the trend isn’t going anywhere fast. AD PRO editor Mel Studach gave us the low-down on bouclé fabric and its origins, noting that the word is of French origin, meaning ‘curled’ or ‘ringed,’ and can refer to a yarn or the fabric made from it. Wool is the most common fiber associated with the fabric, though cotton, linen, and silk have also been used to achieve the soft texture bouclé is known for.

Cotton: Cotton is an all-season fabric, a true chameleon. It can come in thinner and thicker canvases as well as bouclé, chenille, and more. It’s one of the easier to maintain options on this list, cleaning-wise, and especially great if you’re prone to any allergies associated with synthetic materials or wool.

Chenille: Typically made of woven cotton, silk, rayon, or wool yarn, chenille is a textured material that gives a fluffy, velvet-like appearance—the name even comes from the French word for caterpillar.

Linen: You’ll find two stand-out linen options on our list—the Maiden Home Dune and Sixpenny Neva—both which received rave reviews from our testers. Linen won’t hold odors the way unnatural fabrics might, brings an airy quality to your space, and it’s perfect if you’re trying to achieve a coastal aesthetic. Some linens even come as cotton blends for extra softness (a la the Sixpenny Neva).

Leather: We also have a couple of leather sectionals in the mix—the Interior Define Gaby and Article Sven. Leather will show wear over time, but that distressed look is part of the charm in our opinion. The material is also less forgiving to spills and stains so we suggest addressing accidents ASAP or seeking help from a professional for serious messes. (You may also want to invest in a furniture-safe leather conditioner to keep your seats looking hydrated and extending their longevity.)

Performance Fabric: When it comes to the rough and tumble of everyday life, performance fabric is the support system you’re looking for in an upholstery. With an emphasis on durability, performance materials are built to withstand the toughest of stains and can include polyester, nylon, acrylics, and more.

Polyester: Polyester (or performance polyester or poly-blends) is a classic option for both indoor and outdoor since it’s got water resistant qualities and doesn’t fade. It may collect dust and debris more easily than other options on this list, but that’s nothing a quick cushion fluff or regular vacuuming can’t shake.

Velvet: Anything upholstered in velvet will give your space a regal vibe—that said, it’s one of the more high-maintenance materials. Velvet attracts dust, and if any scratches or abrasions occur they’re likely to show.

Wool: Wool is a naturally biodegradable and sustainable upholstery option that eco-conscious shoppers gravitate towards. Appreciated by furniture brands for its smooth, crease-resistant surface, it might not be a suitable option if you have allergies. Any stains that can’t immediately be wiped away should also be addressed by a professional cleaner since excess moisture could ruin the fabric.