Our Shopping Editor Tested the Best Sectionals on the Market So You Don’t Have To

"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."

As design editors, we're always searching for the crème de la crème of furniture, and when it comes to living room essentials, we're hyper-focused on the best sectional sofa. After all, this specific type of sofa, which features two or more pieces that join together and offer more space, are space-saving hero of the home. So we chatted with Todd Howard Ezrin, principal interior designer at Washington, DC-based TOBE DesignGroup, to get his hot take on what makes the best sectional sofa and how to shop for one.

"Buying a sofa is deeply personal and depends on how you like to sit. If you like to slouch, then you may want to consider an extra deep sofa, but if you want to sit more upright, you should consider a standard depth sofa," he explains. He's not wrong. Among many other crucial factors to consider before investing in a sectional, seat depth is certainly one of them.

Questions to Ask Before Buying a Sectional

Just like, well, anything you buy, you'll be happier with your purchase if you research a bit first. Luckily, we've done that for you so that all you really have to do is measure and pick one you like.

What should I look for in a sectional?

"Don't just consider the overall depth; take into account the inside dimensions—like the inside seat depth, which is the measurement from the front of the seat cushion to the start of the back cushion," Ezrin explains. In fact, size is one of the most important factors to consider before you buy a sectional. Even though these are space-saving pieces, you'll still need to be sure it fits in your living room before you order it. If you're working within a small area, we wouldn't suggest going for anything wider than 76 inches. Plus, because the chaise extends forward, you won't really need something super wide.

Another element worth thinking about is the fill: Do you like to sit and sink or feel supported? There are no wrong answers, but your preference for cushion firmness will determine the type of fill that's right for you. Ezrin says, "Many made-to-order manufacturers have a number of fill options for the seat and back cushions that range from soft and cushy to firmer support. Again, this boils down to personal preference and how you like to sit." If you like something cozy and soft, go with down, feathers, or fiber-wrapped coils. If you prefer a sofa on the firmer end of the spectrum, opt for foam.

How do I measure a sectional?

The two most important measurements are the overall width (the space between both arms) and the length of the chaise (from the back to the end of the chaise). The height (from the floor to the top of the back) won't really be a determining factor in whether or not the sectional will fit in your space. If you're pushing the sofa against the wall, you can probably go a bit bigger on the chaise length because you'll have more space. Otherwise, play it safe and go with the smaller option.

Charleston Sectional Sofa

Available in four earthy shades, including the ivory hue pictured, this expansive sectional is easily one of our favorites, courtesy of the extra-wide chaise. It also comes in five widths, so no matter how big or small your living room may be, you'll find a sectional that fits. If you're working within a small area, though, we'd suggest backing this L-shaped sectional into a corner rather than having it float in the middle of the room. That way, you're hardly taking up any valuable floor space.

Kova Sofa + Ottoman

We don't like to play favorites, but just look at this overstuffed Albany Park find. Need we say more? Probably not, but we will. The compact shape aside, this big-ticket selling point is the cushions, which are more like pillows if we're being honest. Plus, it comes in seven colors that range from neutral hues to bright shades, so you officially have no excuse not to buy what we'd consider one of the best sectional sofas on the market. What's more, you don't need any tools to put it together. One reviewer even said, "From the delivery process all through the assembly process, couldn’t have been easier. It’s so comfortable and very easy on the eyes to look at." Well, there you have it.

Revolve Modern Reversible Sectional

When it comes to sofas that are big enough to spread out in both directions, it's not often we find one under $700, but this denim-colored beauty is on sale for just over $600. That's pretty affordable in our book. We want to take a moment to appreciate the color, which, like your favorite pair of dark-wash jeans, goes with literally everything. In fact, we think it pops best against a light-washed living space. There's nothing more impactful than a serious contrast. The chaise can also be moved to either end to accommodate your space's unique layout.

Declan Modular Collection

Before you freak out about finding something so affordable at most people's go-to outpost for all things luxury, let us break down how the pricing works: This is a modular piece, so rather than simply purchasing what is pictured, you select the specific pieces that comprise your soon-to-be new sectional. Basically, you pay à la carte, which is perfect because that way you're only buying what you actually need. Feel free to snag this sectional in any of Frontgate's 100 fabric options, including distressed leather and performance velvet, among others.

Slope Nomad 5-Seat Corner Sectional

This sectional is as long as it is wide, so there is plenty of space for more than one to spread out and enjoy. As is the case with most Burrow picks, the Slope Nomad comes in plenty of colors (specifically, five) and both metal and wood leg options, so you have plenty of opportunities to customize it to suit your space. What's more, you can tack on a movable chaise, ottoman, or sleep kit to make this sectional even more functional. All of the aesthetics and extra goodies aside, what makes this sofa so dreamy is the cushions, which are filled with a three-layer foam and fiber combination that adds that coveted sink-in plushness we all want. "If I lived in a bigger apartment, this sofa would be the first thing I'd buy," Associate Shopping Editor Jessica Cherner says. "When I was sofa-hunting two years ago, Burrow was my first stop, and this sectional feels exactly as it's advertised: It's not nearly as heavy as its gargantuan size may imply, and the cushions are the perfect firmness. They sink in the way a memory foam mattress does, but they're not soft like down-filled sofas are. In other words, they're perfect."

Barton L-Sectional

Name a better team than Serena & Lily and Perennials. We'll wait! There really aren't many. After all, when you combine Serena & Lily's luxury seating with Perennials' unbeatable performance fabrics, something magical happens. Though we wouldn't recommend using this sofa outside, it can survive a lot of wear and tear, so if you have children, pets, or both, there's no need to opt for a cheaply manufactured one you don't actually love. Here's why Perennials fabric is so amazing: It's all woven from 100% solution-dyed acrylic that's resistant to UV radiation, mold, mildew, and staining. "Just for fun, I popped into the Hamptons store over the summer and sat on this heavenly sectional. It's so low to the ground, so sitting down and standing back up is so easy and effortless. I also just happen to have a thing for low-profile sofas," Cherner says. "The one in the store was white and I was shocked to not find a single stain on it, considering how many people probably sit on it daily!"

The Essential Sectional

"I got this sofa when I moved into my current apartment and two years later, it's still brand-new looking," Cherner says. "The seat is on the firmer side, but the back pillows are so plush that they're basically pillows. I also love that it's big enough to spread out, but not so big that it doesn't fit in a New York City-sized apartment," she adds. "One thing I will say, though: It definitely requires two people to put together because the pieces require a bit of pushing and pulling before sliding together." Style it with a pale-colored throw blanket and a pillow or two, and you're all set. All of Sabai's pieces, including The Essential Sectional, are made with sustainably sourced materials, like recycled velvet and FSC-certified wood legs.

The Jones Modular

"Sadly, Maiden Home doesn't have a brick-and-mortar store, but for a brief moment last summer, there was a pop-up a few minutes from my former apartment, and out of a desire to test one of the design community's favorite brands, I went," Cherner notes. "The Jones was by far my favorite. The only thing that stopped me from placing a custom order was the price, but if you want to splurge on what's surely the best sectional sofa on the market right now, carry on." It's pictured in white bouclé, but if white sofas freak you out (you're not alone), snag it in any of the other 40-something options. "It kind of reminds me of the RH cloud, but not so sink-in, which is a good thing, in my opinion. The cushions are really thick, so you have plenty of support under you. Truly a majestic piece," Cherner adds.

Lounge 2-Piece Sectional Sofa

House Beautiful Editor-in-Cheif Joanna Saltz can confirm that this sofa is nap-friendly. In fact, she says, "It has really deep seats, making it napping heaven." Her sister, Laura Newby, who is a mom to both children and dogs, has the sofa in her home and adds, "With four kids and three dogs, this sofa has been the centerpiece of our house. It fits everyone, hides a multitude of stains, and always looks so great." You can also build upon it, so if the two-piece sectional isn't quite big enough for your crew or your space, opt for one more piece.

Mulholland Drive Sectional Sofa

"I've owned this sectional for two years, and it gets better with time," former Assistant Shopping Editor Angela Belt admits. "The seat is deep, and the cushions are durable enough to take a daily beating from my family's lounging, jumping, and sleeping. The best part is it's super easy to clean. I just use a damp cloth and wipe the mess away." Though we have a soft spot for navy velvet, this sofa comes in more than 50 fabric options. You can also pick your leg finish.

Ktaxon Modern L-Shape Sectional

There's no reason to spend a ton of money on a comfy sectional. Case in point: This FCH find that's under $500. Hurry, though! There's only one color left! The other four have already sold out. The cushions, which are covered in a soft chenille fabric, are on the firmer side, but if you have a bad back or want extra support, this is the sofa for you.

Astra Sofa and Chaise

A sectional sofa is all about the chaise, and we're firm believers in extra-wide ones. One of the best we've seen is this Joss & Main find, whose chaise is a whopping 40.5 inches wide. Unlike most of the others on our list, this one features a streamlined silhouette and a low-profile design, but what it lacks in storage space underneath it makes up for in comfort. "A friend bought this—albeit used on AptDeco—for her new house in the suburbs and it is as comfortable as it looks," Cherner says. "The best part is the super deep seats, so you're kind of forced to lean back and, well, relax." One warning, though: "It is enormous, both literally and aesthetically. It kind of takes over the room, so if you're working with a small space, this may not be the sofa for you," Cherner adds.

Haven Leather 2-Piece Chaise Sectional

Our favorite element of this sofa is the fact that the seat extends past the back. "It's not really the best place to sit, but it actually makes the sofa look so much bigger," Cherner, who tested the sofa out in-store, explains. "Leather sofas tend to make me a little nervous because if you spill liquid—even something harmless like water—the hide will soak it up and stain." So if you're someone who restricts all food and beverages to the kitchen, enjoy this plush, sink-in sofa. "It has that coveted lived-in feel without looking distressed, which I love. The seat is also pretty deep, so it kind of beckons you to relax a little. That's what a sofa is for, right?" Cherner notes. If this warm-toned shade isn't for you, there are 17 other options, including four vegan leather ones!

Pearce Square Arm 3-Piece Sectional

"I saved the best sectional sofa for last," Cherner admits. "My parents have this one in the oatmeal-colored performance fabric, and it is like the most underestimated piece in the house. With comfy down-blend-filled cushions, it is seriously so comfortable. Plus, it has a pretty low back, so it's not exactly domineering." You may not be able to tell how big the sofa is in this particular photo, so click through the ones on the site to get a sense of size. "It's huge. I have two siblings and three dogs, and we can all fit comfortably on this sectional," Cherner adds. "If you can believe it, the best seat is the wedge in the corner! Don't ask me why, it just is."

What is the advantage of sectional sofa?

The advantage of a sectional sofa is that it gives you a lot more space to spread out than a traditional two- or three-seat couch does without taking up significantly more space. Because the sofa extends forward, rather than to the side, you don't really need a massive living space to accommodate one. In fact, sectional sofas are a great way to maximize a small room.

Should a sectional go against the wall?

A sectional sofa doesn't necessarily have to go against the wall, but if you're living room isn't exactly overflowing with extra space, pushing the wedge part of the sectional into the corner of the room is a great way to maximize your floor plan. Otherwise, feel free to let your sectional "float" in the middle of the room like you would a traditional sofa.

Why trust us?

Todd Howard Ezrin is the principal designer at Washington, DC-based TOBE DesignGroup. He has earned degrees in both interior design and business management from Marymount University Ithaca College respectively, so when it comes to style expertise, Ezrin is always a trusted source.

You Might Also Like

• 15 Home Bar Gifts Every Cocktail Enthusiast Will Appreciate

• 32 Low Light Indoor Plants That Can Survive in the Darkest Corners of Your Home

• These Are the 50 Best Paint Colors for Your Living Room