We Tested (and Rated!) Every Article Sofa — Here Are the Best Ones for Every Need

I get it, buying a sofa sight unseen is tough. But if you’re only considering sofas you can see IRL, you’ll miss the high-quality, stylish models by DTC (direct to consumer), online-only brands. Like Article — I’ve seen the modern furniture and decor brand all over my social media feeds and regularly hear their ads on my favorite podcasts, but have never seen their pieces in person. So when I got the chance to test Article sofas for Apartment Therapy’s Personal Shopper series, I was so in. 

If you’ve been as curious about Article as I have, you’re in luck. I flew over six hours from NYC to spend the day at the brand’s only flagship store and get up close and personal with every sofa on the showroom floor. Now I’m back to report on the best Article sofas for your space and needs. 

Article is primarily an online-only business, except for the brand’s flagship showroom in Vancouver, Canada — which means unless you live within driving distance of that store, you won’t be able to touch and feel their products before purchasing. And if you’ve been exposed to Article products online like I have, you might already be tempted to make a purchase, because the brand makes some of the most stylish mid-century modern and Scandinavian-inspired furniture I’ve seen. That’s why we did the due diligence for you by investigating Article sofas in person. 

Article has over a thousand sofas, loveseats, and sectionals that’ll appeal to every design aesthetic, whether you lean mid-century modern, Scandinavian, contemporary, or boho. And because Article works directly with manufacturers, they’re able to make high-quality, high-end pieces at a more reasonable price point than their luxury competitors. Even better, you can always choose white-glove delivery (for $199) at checkout for the ultimate experience. Article offers inside room delivery ($119), too, which means the delivery person will bring your order to whatever room you choose (without assembly), sparing you from lugging a heavy box up your stairs or through a tight apartment hallway. 

I evaluated every Article sofa based on the following five criteria to find the best Article sofa for every need, whether you’re looking for a compact, apartment-friendly sofa or an oversized, loungeable sectional.

• Seat firmness: How soft or firm are the seat cushions? How do they contribute to overall posture and comfort?
• Seat depth: How far do you have to scoot to meet the backrest? And when you do, are you in an upright or reclined position?
• Loungability: Can you spend hours on this sofa or chair? And would you want to?
• Durability: Is the fabric easy to care for and able to withstand everyday use? Does it require frequent upkeep and spot cleaning?
• Appearance: What style does it best suit? Does it lean more traditional (i.e., rounded lines, tufted cushions, classic silhouettes) or more contemporary (i.e., clean lines, bright hues, modern silhouettes)?

Every Article sofa was tested by me, Alexa Casanova. As Apartment Therapy’s shopping writer, it’s essentially my job to test, review, and recommend products, whether it’s easy-to-assemble bed frames, modular sofas, coffee tables, and anything else you may be looking for. I’ve covered them all, so I know what makes a piece of furniture worth buying. I was previously the commerce editor at Design Milk and Well+Good. 

I spent the day at Article’s flagship store in Vancouver to evaluate the brand’s sofas for their design, loungability, and durability.

What Impressed Me: With its extra-deep seats, low profile, and wide square arms that conveniently go all the way around, the Beta sofa invites the whole family (pets and all!) to pile on. Yes, even with its White Quartz performance fabric, which, beyond its luxe look and feel, features a stain-repellant finish to protect against spills. Though I tested it in a two-seat, 98-inch-wide configuration, its modular design can be configured as a chaise- or L-shaped sectional sofa to accommodate larger spaces. 

I absolutely loved settling back into the Beta’s sink-in soft cushions. Despite their depth, I was able to sit back with my feet still touching the floor (I’m about 5’5” tall, for reference). You could even lay down across the sofa for a nap or a sleepover; it’s that deep. The square armrests are a comfy place to rest your head, thanks to the light cushioning. Even the back of the sofa has a wide square shape that doubles as extra seating if the sofa’s positioned away from the wall. 

Specifications:

• Styles: Also available in a modular chaise sectional, corner sectional, L-shaped sectional, ottoman, conversational sectional, an armless sofa, and more styles
• Dimensions: 32″ high, 98″ wide, 45″ deep
• Upholstery: 3 options 

What Impressed Me: The Sanders sofa’s paneled silhouette drew me in at first (it gives the sofa a modern, Scandi-inspired look), but the surprisingly soft cushions made me want to spend an extra 10 minutes on it. I expected a couch this sculptural to feel super firm, but the foam-core seat felt comfortable and bouncy. The firmer back cushions give it a more supportive and upright seat, making it perfect for those who work and eat from their sofa, in addition to lounging. 

The armrests, while padded, are on the narrower side, but that’s part of what gives the Sanders sofa its sleek, small space-friendly footprint. I tested it in Article’s Hestia Ginger performance fabric, a sheeny copper shade that’s velvety soft. Factor in the smoked oak legs, and the sofa brings instant warmth and richness to any living space.

Specifications: 

• Styles: Also available in a lounge chair, reversible chaise sectional, and an ottoman 
• Dimensions: 32.5″ high, 85.5″ wide, 38.5″ deep 
• Upholstery: 6 options 

What Impressed Me: The Burrard is a “blank slate” sofa in that it complements virtually any decor style. Its sleek, tailored silhouette and tapered wood legs are textbook mid-century modern, but in the Sea Salt ivory upholstery I saw in-store, it had a relaxed coastal vibe. It’s a model that you can make your own, depending on the styling. 

Polished as it looks, the Burrard sofa’s seat and back cushions felt pretty plush! It’s a model you could easily lie back and relax on, but could also hold its own in a more formal living space. You see what I mean by “blank slate”? 

Specifications: 

• Styles: Also available in a loveseat, ottoman, lounge chair, and a sectional 
• Dimensions: 33” high, 83.5″ wide, 35″ deep
• Upholstery: 3 fabric and 3 leather options 

What Impressed Me: Even in its 92-inch-wide corner configuration, the Marina sectional was surprisingly compact in person. It also had a more traditional look compared with the other modern and Scandi-inspired pieces on the showroom floor. The model I tested was upholstered in Article’s Clover Ivory performance fabric, which felt so smooth and luxe, I wouldn’t have guessed that it’s totally stain-repellant. 

Featuring a tall back and medium-firm cushions, the Marina gives you a supportive, upright seat that’s comfortable enough for an after-dinner nap — especially with its plush bolster pillows and inwardly curved armrests — and easy to get up from. My parents, for example, aren’t fans of my current sofa’s low-profile seat, and I’m convinced they’d be pleased with the Marina’s taller, ergonomic design. While the Corner Sectional may be a tight squeeze in a cramped living room, it comes in multiple configurations (like a reversible sectional with built-in storage) that would be great for small spaces.

Specifications: 

• Styles: Also available in a sofa, sleeper chair, sofa bed, reversible storage sleeper sectional, reversible storage sectional, lounge chair, and an ottoman     
• Dimensions: 35” high, 92” wide, 92″ deep
• Upholstery: 8 fabric and 3 velvet options 

What Impressed Me: I immediately loved the Lenae sofa’s Eleos Green upholstery, which an Article employee told me was the model’s most popular color. I immediately understood why. The fabric has a rich texture and earthy sage hue (and you know what they say — green is the new neutral). 

I tested the 104.5-inch-wide Lenae sofa, which is better suited to a large living room, but the modular design means it can easily be reconfigured to fit spaces of all sizes (it makes moving so much easier, too). The sofa has plush, pillowy back cushions that perfectly complement its firm, standard-depth seat, which you won’t have to worry about fluffing, either thanks to the bouncy foam filling. All in all, it’s a cozy and contemporary-looking piece you’ll love for relaxing and entertaining alike.

Specifications: 

• Styles: Also available in a corner sectional, L-shaped sectional, armless chair module, corner module, reversible sectional, ottoman, right arm module, and left arm module
• Dimensions: 34.25″ high, 104.5″ wide,  38″ deep
• Upholstery: two fabrics and one velvet option 

What Impressed Me: From the airy Napa Dove upholstery and corner blocked construction, to the sloped arms, the Landry loveseat oozes coastal charm. And it couldn’t be more low-maintenance, thanks to the spill-repellent fabric and the resilient foam-and-fiber-filled (and reversible) bench cushion — which an Article representative told me was specially designed to withstand unapologetic use, so you won’t see one side wear down before the other. The plush, overstuffed back cushions give the Landry a comfortable, relaxed feel that’s still fairly upright, making it perfect for those who don’t love a deep recline. 

Plus, the loveseat’s compact, 72-inch-wide silhouette is a great fit for smaller spaces! 

Specifications: 

• Styles: Also available in a slipcover sofa, sleeper sofa, corner sectional, standard sofa, reversible storage sectional, right storage sleeper sectional, left storage sleeper sectional, ottoman, and swivel chair
• Dimensions: 34″ high, 72″ wide, 36″ deep
• Upholstery: 12 fabrics and 4 velvet options 

What Impressed Me: The Cigar sofa is downright cool. Its low-profile, blocky silhouette looks like something that belongs in an edgy downtown loft. I thought it would feel stiff at first due to its more structured appearance, but the sofa’s all-over feather filling and foam padding surprised me with its medium-soft cushion. Factor in the deep seat and extra-wide arms, and you’ve got a sofa that invites you to lay back and relax. Note: The sofa’s longer footprint will require more floorspace, if you’re looking for something smaller, you can try Article’s armless, 56-inch-wide loveseat. 

And let’s take a moment for the leather upholstery. I saw the sofa in Rawhide Tan, a top-grain, full-aniline leather that has a warm, rich look and buttery suede-like texture that gets even better with time. There’s also raw-edge seaming that makes for a cool, distressed detail.

Specifications: 

• Styles: Also available in a loveseat, reversible sectional, swivel lounge chair, and ottoman
• Dimensions: 26″ high, 92″ wide, 38″ deep
• Upholstery: two leather options 

What Impressed Me: The Abisko sofa makes a statement with its bubbly, curved silhouette and brushed bronze legs. I could definitely see it in a formal living space, but it isn’t one of those “look but don’t touch” sofas. Its oversized seat and back cushions feel bouncy and supportive for a more comfortable sit. It has a deeper seat, but my feet still touch the ground even when scooted all the way to the back (I’m 5’5” for reference), so I still feel supported when sitting on it. I could see this being a sofa you could work from; and if you choose the durable, White Quartz performance fabric I saw in-store, you could enjoy meals on it, too. 

Another thing I noticed is that the armrests were quite low, so they’re not the most comfortable to lean on while seated, but they make for a cushiony headrest if you’re lying on the sofa lengthwise. The armrests are wide, too, so you could rest a book or laptop on it comfortably. 

If you live in a small space, you’ll be pleased to know that the Abisko sofa arrives in two pieces.

Specifications: 

• Styles: Also available in a right sectional, left sectional, lounge chair, L-shaped sectional, and ottoman
• Dimensions: 28″ high, 91″ wide, 35″ deep
• Upholstery: 2 fabric and 2 velvet options 

What Impressed Me: After seeing the Timber sectional IRL, I understand why it’s one of Article’s best-selling sofas. The 93-inch-wide silhouette has a shorter chaise that saves on precious floor space, yet there’s somehow room for the entire family to pile on. It also has an exceptionally stylish, mid-century modern aesthetic, with its exposed, honey oak base, angled silhouette, and outturned tapered legs. 

It doesn’t matter how you position yourself on the Timber; you’re going to be comfortable. Its seat and back cushions are soft and bouncy, and the armrests have thick, removable pillows that add tons of cushion. If you’re taller, your feet may hang off the front of the sectional’s chaise, but that’s not totally unexpected for a small space-friendly sofa.

Specifications: 

• Styles: Also available in a right sectional, corner sectional, sofa, leather sofa, loveseat, lounge chair, and ottoman
• Dimensions: 32″ high, 93″ wide, 63″ deep
• Upholstery: 3 fabric and 3 leather options 

What Impressed Me: The sleeper version of Article’s popular Riley Sofa (that one editor said survived a Dr. Pepper spill!) the Riley sofa bed has a clean-lined, corner-blocked silhouette with subtle curves. I actually couldn’t tell it was a sleeper at first. It has a firmer seat, which isn’t unusual for a sleeper sofa, but it’s definitely one of the more comfortable sleeper sofas I’ve tried. The seat cushions are thick and bouncy, you’d never guess there was a metal sleeper frame inside. Plush, pillowy back cushions allow you to sit back comfortably, too. 

What’s more, you’ll never feel guilty offering the Riley sofa bed to guests. It has a cloudlike memory foam mattress that folds out so effortlessly, your guests will be able to do it on their own in seconds. And just like the original Riley, the sleeper comes in durable, stain-repellent performance fabric upholstery. The sofa bed I sat on, for example, had been on the showroom floor for a year, and still looked brand new! 

Specifications: 

• Styles: Also available in a sleeper chair, lounge chair, grand swivel chair, left storage sleeper sectional, reversible storage sectional, storage sofa, standard sofa, and ottoman
• Dimensions: 35″ high, 84″ wide,  39.5″ – 90″ deep
• Upholstery: 11 fabric and 4 velvet options 

What Impressed Me: Testing the Sven sofa in person, I was borderline starstruck — it’s Article’s best-selling, most iconic sofa! It’s all vintage mid-century modern flair, with clean lines, a tufted bench seat, and round bolster pillows. Aniline leather takes its antique charm to a whole new level, boasting a rich color and soft texture that develops a patina over time. 

While the old Sven model had down-filled cushions, the brand made the switch to high-density foam and fiber to enhance the sofa’s bounce back and overall longevity. I thought it had a balanced, medium-firm seat, which, honestly, was comfier than I expected for such a design-led sofa. The couch cushions hold their shape, too, so you can sneak in a nap and no one would ever be able to notice. The Sven is a bit taller than Article’s other models at 34 inches tall, which makes it easier for you to get up compared with a lower-profile sofa.

Specifications: 

• Styles: Also available in a loveseat, sectional, ottoman, lounge chair, and grounded sofa
• Dimensions: 34″ high, 88″ wide, 38″ deep
• Upholstery: 6 leather, 6 velvet, and 15 fabric options 

What Impressed Me: Aside from its affordable under-$800 price tag, the first thing I noticed about the Hanson sofa was its compact size. The rounded 80-inch-wide silhouette would fit perfectly in most apartments, making it a great starter sofa for someone furnishing their first home. Outfitted with plush, loose seat and back cushions, it offers a soft and supportive seat and a contouring back. Its 21.5-inch-deep seat allows you to sit comfortably in an upright position, too, making it perfectly suited to movie nights and work meetings alike. 

I saw the Hanson in the Thistle Green upholstery, a serene jade-like shade with the slightest sheen. The polyester chenille fabric gives it a smooth, velvety feeling. It’s so soft in tone and texture, it would complement both neutral minimalist and maximalist spaces.

Specifications: 

• Dimensions: 33″ high, 80″ wide, 35.25″ deep
• Upholstery: 3 fabric options 

What Impressed Me: The Leigh sectional looks like a huge, fluffy cloud with its relaxed, pillowy cushions and grand, 126-inch-wide L-shaped silhouette. After sitting on it myself, I can confidently say that it feels like a cloud, too. It’s sink-in soft, with 25-inch-deep seats that are practically made for sprawling out with a blanket and a bowl of popcorn. The seats are so deep that guests can comfortably stretch across it (perfect for sleepovers!). Plus, the sofa is modular, so it can be reconfigured as your needs change. 

Due to the cloudlike, feather-foam-fiber blend fill, Leigh’s cushions do require some fluffing, but that’s just part of the sofa’s laidback charm. And they’re reversible, so you can always flip them over for a fresh look. The armrests are taller, which made leaning my arm atop them a challenge. However, the curved, generously padded shape adds to the sofa’s softness. 

Specifications: 

• Styles: Also available in a grand swivel, lounge chair, ottoman, modular sofa, armless chair module, corner chair module,  right arm module, and left arm module
• Dimensions: 33″ high, 126″ wide, 82″ deep
• Upholstery: 12 fabric and 4 velvet options 

What Impressed Me: The Rhett sofa is a current take on classic, mid-century modern style with a sleek square silhouette, and vintage-inspired tapered legs and an exposed wood base. Its plump, overstuffed cushions have a foam and fiber filling, giving the sofa its bouncy, medium-firm feel. It also has a narrower seat, so it gives you an upright sit that’s easier to get up from. Its wide square arms contribute to its contemporary edge, and give you plenty of room to lean or rest a book or laptop. And they’re cushioned for extra comfort.  

There are three upholstery fabrics to choose from, but as far as I’m concerned there’s only one: felted green. It’s rich and earthy, with a cozy, wool-like appearance — but it’s actually printed velvet, giving it enhanced durability and low-absorption, so you actually have time to blot away spills.

Specifications: 

• Styles: Also available in a leather loveseat, leather ottoman, leather left chaise sectional, leather right chaise sectional, lounge chair, loveseat, and ottoman
• Dimensions: 33.5″ high, 84″ wide, 38″ deep
• Upholstery: 3 fabric and 1 leather option

What Impressed Me: I couldn’t help but notice the Ceni sofa’s clean, sophisticated appearance, which featured a solid oak base with rounded corners, and thick ivory cushions. It has an elegant look that would be right at home in a more formal setting. And if you like a more supportive seat, the Ceni’s firm fiber and foam-padded cushions are sure to please. I found them to be slightly bouncy, and not at all stiff like other fancy living room sofas. So it’s a sofa you’ll actually enjoy sitting on while entertaining. 

The Buckler Ivory upholstery is beautiful, too. It doesn’t lean too warm or too cool, and has a slight texture to it that’s somehow chic and coastal at the same time. With the right pillows and decor, it’s a couch that could be styled to fit virtually any decor aesthetic, whether you’re going full-on Scandi, warm minimalist, or coastal cottage.

Specifications: 

• Styles: Also available in a loveseat, ottoman, corner sectional, and lounge chair
• Dimensions: 31″ high, 83″ wide, 35″ deep
• Finishes: 2 options 
• Upholstery: 5 options