We Tested (and Rated!) Every Burrow Couch and Chair to Determine the Best for Every Space and Need

When it comes to sofa shopping, browsing models online is fun but can be tricky. It’s hard to tell how a given piece is going to fit into your space, or what that fabric you love actually feels like — and that’s where our Personal Shopper series comes in handy. We visited Burrow, the DTC (direct to consumer) brand behind some of our editors’ favorite furniture, back in 2023 to review the brand’s sofas — three years later, we ventured back to retest every sofa on the showroom floor and narrow our picks down to the very best.  

If you’ve ever been curious about reviews of Burrow’s popular Shift Sleeper Sofa, the Ember Sofa, and all the new sofas and accent chairs that have launched since our last in-store visit, we put them to the test (again!) to give you our updated thoughts and make online shopping even easier. The brand’s CEO and cofounder, Stephen Kuhl, even gave us the inside scoop on what makes every piece special. Whether you’re looking for a classic couch, a comfy WFH spot, or a place to lounge as you catch up on your favorite shows, we’ve got you covered.

If you’re new to our Personal Shopper series, we visit the physical showrooms of all your favorite furniture retailers and try products out firsthand to help you find the best pieces for your space. We’ve gone to stores like West Elm and Pottery Barn to test their living room seating, bed frames, and more. After these visits, we give you the full breakdown of which model is right for your space.

So far in our Personal Shopper series, we’ve covered large mainstream retailers whose reach goes far beyond just home improvement enthusiasts. Although Burrow is no under-the-radar brand, we think it’s worth exploring due to its stylish, functional, and easy-to-assemble modular designs that are particularly great for small-space dwellers — or anyone who values versatility in their home furnishings. 

What’s more, the brand offers affordable flat-rate shipping. Orders over $1000 cost $69, orders between $500 and $1000 cost $49, orders between $100 and $500 cost $39, and anything less than $100 ships free.

We judged every Burrow sofa and chair in-store based on the following five criteria to help us determine the best person, from the armchair reader to the WFH professional, for each piece.

• Overall sit: What posture does the sofa best support? How deep or shallow are the seats? Are the cushions soft or firm on the back and arms?
• Seat firmness: How soft or firm are the seat cushions? How do they contribute to overall posture and comfort?
• Comfort: Can you spend hours on this sofa or chair? And would you want to?
• Versatility: Can it serve multiple purposes within the home?
• Appearance: What style does it suit best? Does it lean more traditional (i.e., deep hues, tufted cushions, classic silhouettes) or more contemporary (i.e., clean lines, bright hues, modern silhouettes)?

In 2023, our former shopping writer Nikol Slatinska spent the day at the Burrow store in New York City to evaluate the brand’s sofas and accent chairs on their overall sit, comfort, and appearance. She tested and reviewed furniture for the Personal Shopper series to help readers find the best pieces for their homes — especially those in small spaces. She covered it all — from sofas and bed frames to dining tables and accent chairs.

Recently I revisited Burrow’s NYC store to re-test the sofas and armchairs, and evaluate all the new models that Burrow has released since Nikol’s original review. 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.

Before we get into the sofas and chairs, we felt it was necessary to point out that Burrow also has its own line of customizable sleep kits. Each bundle has everything you need to turn your couch into a bed, including a memory foam topper, quilted blanket, pillow, eye mask, and both a fitted and flat sheet.

And, when we say customizable, we're referring to the three different kits available for the Nomad, Field, and Range sofas (more info to come on all of those!). Everything in the kit fits neatly into its own bag, which you can stow away effortlessly and bring out when you have overnight guests. Depending on which sofa you buy, you can also add a sleep kit directly to your order.

Burrow has launched a new collection of sofa models since our last in-store visit, called the "Pro" models. Designed to be a step up from Burrow’s other sofas in terms of style and comfort, Burrow’s Pro models are essentially a more premium take on the brand’s most-loved designs, like the Range, Ember, and Union sofas (which we’ll get into shortly!).

What Impressed Us: Burrow's most compact sofa, the Nomad can seat up to three people comfortably (or even four if you're okay with getting a little personal). It's the stylish answer to the common question: "How do I outfit my tiny living room without defaulting to a sofa that looks like it belongs in a dorm?"

You'll also be happy to learn that the Nomad is Burrow's most customizable sofa, with three armrest styles, reversible back cushions, six leg finishes, and 11 upholstery colors. This seating staple strikes the perfect balance between modern and traditional. In other words, it's timeless in design but fit for everyday life, complete with a built-in USB charger.

Specifications:

• Styles: The Nomad line includes a leather sofa, velvet sofa, sectional, loveseat, an armchair, and an ottoman
• Dimensions: 85" wide, 35" deep, 33" high
• Upholstery: Available in 13 upholstery options
• Shipping Delays

What Impressed Us: Compared to Burrow’s OG Union sofa, the Union Pro sports a more structured silhouette that spans traditional and contemporary styling. I saw it in the ivory performance chenille fabric upholstery, which had a velvety-soft texture and gave the sofa a cloud-like appearance — that’s also resistant to stains and scratches. 

I found that it had a shallower seat than the original, which makes it a great choice for those who prefer a more upright sit. While the cushions are slightly softer than the original, too, I’d say they have a balanced, medium-firm feel that bounces back for all-over support. The Union Pro also has taller armrests that give it a more enveloping feeling, and paired with the plush arm cushions it’s downright cozy. And if you do want to kick back and relax, the sofa’s wide ottoman chaise gives you plenty of room to do so. 

Specifications: 

• Styles: The Union Pro line also includes a two-seat sofa and a three-seat sofa
• Dimensions: 108“ long, 39“ deep, 33“ high
• Colors: Three performance fabric options 
• All In Stock

What Impressed Us: The first thing we noticed about Burrow's Range line was its clean lines and contemporary look. As we got closer and sat on this three-piece sofa, however, what impressed us was its simultaneously firm and ergonomic feel. Not only will this piece provide the perfect amount of back and seat support throughout your entire 9-to-5 shift, but its back cushion also curves toward you so that you're never hunched over.

The Range sofa can also be customized to include an attached side table — an ideal spot for snacks, your laptop, and other work essentials! Other features that stood out to us were the sofa's pillow-shaped side cushions and low profile.

Specifications:

• Styles: The Range line includes a sectional, one-arm sofa, side table, and loveseat
• Dimensions: 91.5" long, 31" deep, 28" high
• Upholstery: Available in five upholstery options
• Most Styles In Stock

What Impressed Us: The first thing I noticed about the new Range Pro sectional was its luxe, camel-toned leather upholstery. Burrow’s store associate told me they refer to it as their “magic leather” internally, because of its exceptional durability. The model I tested was styled right at the entry of the showroom in front of a giant window — and it showed zero signs of fading, scratches, or wear-and-tear from the constant flow of foot traffic. Combined with the blocky silhouette, the sofa has an incredibly high-end look compared to Burrow’s original Range model. 

It’s softer than the OG Range, too, with 38-inch-deep seats, and plush back and arm cushions that invite you to plop down and relax. And for surprise sleepovers, the back and arm cushions can be flipped back to expose more of the seat so guests can have a comfortable place to crash. 

Specifications: 

• Styles: The Range Pro line includes a two-seat sofa and a three-seat sofa
• Dimensions: 109” long, 38” deep, 30” high
• Colors: One leather option, and two performance fabric options 
• Shipping Delays

What Impressed Us: With its extra-deep seats and plush, pillowy cushions, the Russet sofa definitely has more of a relaxed appearance compared to Burrow’s other models. The layered foam seat cushions sit on top of a foam base, which gives the sofa a comfy, cloud-like feeling — although I did hit the base slightly when I plopped down. Due to their pillowy construction, the cushions did appear flatter once I stood up, so you’ll need to fluff them up regularly. But if you’re looking for a couch with a more casual, lived-in vibe, this would be a great choice. 

Measuring at about 85.5 inches wide, the Russet sofa is small-space-friendly — and the fact that it’s fully modular makes it even more so. It arrives in compact boxes that are relatively easy to maneuver through narrow apartment hallways. And if you move into a home with a larger living space, you can always add modules for a configuration that works for you. I saw the Russet in the brand’s Crushed Gravel chenille upholstery, a performance fabric that’s totally stain-resistant. The covers can always be removed and machine-washed for a deeper clean, too. 

Specifications: 

• Styles: The Russet line includes a three-piece sofa, a four-piece reversible chaise sectional, four-piece sofa, five-piece reversible chaise sectional, three-piece reversible chaise sectional, six-piece double chaise sectional, four-piece corner sectional, five-piece corner sectional, and a six-piece corner sectional       
• Dimensions: 85.5" wide, 40" deep, 34" high
• Colors: Four performance fabric options 
• Shipping Delays

What Impressed Us: The Ember Pro exudes MCM energy with its long, sculptural silhouette and tapered walnut legs. The legs are also about two inches taller than Burrow’s original Ember sofa, which gives you a bit more under-sofa storage space and makes it easier to get up from. I saw it in the sage performance chenille upholstery, which is soft to the touch and has a beautiful sheen that adds to the sofa’s polished and sophisticated appearance. Plus, the covers are removable and machine-washable for easy upkeep. 

I could definitely see the Ember Pro fitting right into a more formal living space — but that doesn’t mean it’s not comfortable. Its supportive, medium-firm seat cushions and softer back cushion allow you to lean back if desired without sinking. And the lower, square arm rests are lightly padded, so you can comfortably rest your head on them while lying length-wise, or perch a cup of coffee on top while chatting with guests. 

Specifications: 

• Styles: The Ember Pro line includes a left-facing chaise sectional, right-facing chaise sectional, and a two-seat sofa 
• Dimensions: 96" wide, 34" deep, 32" high
• Colors: Two performance fabric options
• Shipping Delays

What Impressed Us: If you want a sofa that’s large enough for the whole family, doubles as a guest bed, and has built-in storage, you’re going to want to check out the Span sectional. There’s a cheeky lift-up storage compartment hidden in the chaise, and while you’ll need the floor space to accommodate its 128.5-inch-wide silhouette, it’s well worth what you’ll gain in versatility. The chaise can also be configured on either side of the sofa, so it’s a couch you’ll keep in your life as you move homes. 

The Span sectional has bouncy foam cushions that felt super firm when I first sat down, but will soften over time for lasting comfort. Combined with its shorter seat depth and taller height, it gives you a supportive, upright sit. This isn’t a sofa that’s difficult to get up from, and it’s not difficult to convert into a sleeper either! The all-foam (that’s right — no metal bars here!) sleeper folds out effortlessly thanks to the hidden handles on the seat cushions, so overnight guests can make and stow the bed with ease. Even the arm cushion inserts can be removed and used as sleeping pillows (they’re made of a plush down alternative). Burrow thought of everything with this one! 

Specifications:

• Styles: The Span line includes a storage chaise, two-seat sleeper sofa,  and double storage sectional configuration 
• Dimensions: 128.5“ long, 65.5” wide, 34.5“ high
• Colors: Five upholstery options
• Shipping Delays

What Impressed Us: Burrow’s Shift sleeper isn’t recommended for daily lounging. In other words, you wouldn’t place this model in your living room and use it as your main seating. Instead, this sophisticated new offering works best in the office or spare room that could use some extra seating for guests. Simply unfold the bench-style seat to open the sofa’s queen-size sleep surface — no pulling or tugging required.

We tried it in-store and found that the entire process takes less than a minute. Plus, the sleep surface’s three-layer foam construction is just as comfortable as a regular bed! Just place your bedding on top, and you’re good to go. You can even unzip the sofa’s side pillow covers and pull out the cushions, which double as bed pillows.

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 84" long, 32.5" wide, 33.5" high
• Upholstery: Available in five upholstery options
• Select Styles In Stock

What Impressed Us: The Rye recliner was so sleek and compact that I actually couldn’t tell whether it was a recliner at first. Its 27-inch-wide silhouette is a welcome departure from the bulky, oversized recliners I’m used to seeing, and would fit perfectly in a cramped living room, home office, or guest room (and just imagine how great it would be in a reading nook!). As soon as I sat down, I marveled at its comfortable, supportive seat. But what really impressed me was its effortless recline. There’s no cumbersome lever to pull; all I had to do was hold the armrests and gently lean back. Even when fully extended, it doesn’t take up much space. 

I saw the Rye in Burrow’s camel, top-grain leather upholstery which, combined with the chair’s clean-lined silhouette, gave it a retro mid-century modern appearance. This leather felt smooth and luxe, and was surprisingly resilient; the floor model didn’t display any scratches or signs of wear despite being on display for months. 

Specifications: 

• Dimensions: 27“ wide, 44” high, 39“ deep
• Colors: One leather and two fabric options 
• Select Styles In Stock

What Impressed Us: Just look at it! The Airmail chair has the coolest retro look, with an enveloping cocoon-like silhouette and a deep, V-shaped seat. Situated on a smooth, 360-degree walnut swivel base, it looks like a one-of-a-kind, MCM find. I saw it in the oatmeal performance bouclé upholstery, which had subtle color variations and a plush, cozy texture. 

The chair is definitely on the firm side, and due to its steep recline getting in and out of it is a bit awkward. But once you’re on it, it’s surprisingly comfy! The swivel is super smooth, too; I could’ve twirled around on it all day. For a leveled-up lounging experience, you can purchase the matching ottoman separately. 

Specifications: 

• Dimensions: 27" wide, 39.25" deep, 33.5" high
• Colors: Three fabric options 
• All In Stock

What Impressed Us: I immediately loved the Palmer chair’s stylish mix of materials. Between the plank-style wood arms, sleek powder-coated steel legs, and the bubbly chenille-upholstered seat, it has a cool Scandinavian vibe that would elevate any living room. As soon as I sat down, I was blown away by how comfortable it was; the rounded cushions contour my back perfectly and offer exceptional lumbar support. And because the flat, solid-wood arms practically double as side tables, it’s a great spot to chill out with a cup of coffee. 

True to its Scandi vibe, the Palmer chair is super-low-maintenance. Its medium-firm cushions bounce back instantly, and the performance chenille upholstery stands up against stains and spills. It’s the kind of chair you could sit in for hours, whether you’re engrossed in a book or swept up in conversation. 

Specifications: 

• Dimensions: 27.5" wide, 29.25" deep, 27" high
• Colors: Four fabric options 
• Most Styles In Stock

• Nomad Sofa, $1,462 (normally $1,949)
• Nomad Armchair, $601 (normally $859)
• Span Sleeper Storage Sectional, $2,752 (normally $3,669)
• Range Pro 109" Reversible Chaise Sectional, $3,802 (normally $5,069)
• Range 3-Piece Sofa, $1,304 (normally $1,739)
• Ember Pro 96" 3-Seat Sofa, $1,852 (normally $2,469)
• Russet 2-Piece Sofa, $2,204 (normally $2,939)
• Union Pro 108" Reversible Chaise Sectional, $2,962 (normally $3,949)
• Union 5-Seat Sectional, $3,132 (normally $4,819)
• Ember Chaise Sectional, $1,865 (normally $2,869)
• Mambo Sofa, $1,787 (normally $2,979)
• Field 3-Piece Sofa, $1,103 (normally $1,839)
• Field Leather Armchair, $827 (normally $1,379)
• Union Armchair, $839 (normally $1,199)
• Gimlet Chair, $501 (normally $715)
• Lodge Chair, $620 (normally $885)
• Dunes Teak 3-Seat Outdoor Sofa, $2,129 (normally $3,275)
• Dunes Sun Lounger, $900 (normally $1,285)
• Relay Outdoor 3-Piece Sofa, $1,755 (normally $2,925)
• Shift Sleeper Sofa, $1,859 (normally $2,479)
• Rye Recliner, $1,325
• Airmail Chair, $1,049
• Palmer Chair, $939