Whether it’s your first time buying a sofa or looking for an upgrade, choosing a sofa without reading reviews can lead to disappointment, wasted money, and uncomfortable experiences. After years of trying out various sofas, I’m creating this guide to give insight into real-world comfort, durability, and suitability that showroom tours cannot.
Top Recommendations: Expert Picks for Your New Sofa
TLDR? I’m ranking the Stockholm 2017 model as the number one sofa due to its deep, soft cushions and family-friendly size while still looking stylish.
- Most Comfortable – Stockholm 2017: With an ultra-deep seat, the Stockholm 2017 is the best purchase you can get. Its soft, spacious cushions allow multiple lounging positions, perfect for relaxing. This comfortable sectional works well in family rooms.
- Best for Small Spaces – Ekebol: The versatile, compact Ekebol sofa efficiently functions as a seat, bed, and workspace in one portable piece. Its shelving and open back maximize utility in studios, dorms, and apartments with limited space.
- Best for Everyday Use – Landskrona: The handsome Landskrona leather sofa withstands heavy daily use while remaining deceptively cozy thanks to its deep seat and cushioned arms. Its durable upholstery also keeps it looking new over time.
- Most Stylish – Stocksund: With its refined lines and arched arm structure, the Stocksund sofa makes a sophisticated statement in any room. A deep cushion and removable cover also ensure comfort and convenience.
- Honorable Mention – Dennes: While firm, the mid-century modern Dennes looks fashionable with its tufted cushions and sculptural wooden base. The fabric cover option is family-friendly for a stylish yet livable sofa.
Unlocking Insights: Methodology for My Sofa Reviews
Before I jump into the reviews, though, let me lay out what is important to me when choosing sofas for my home. I’ve tried to provide as much detail and honesty as I can.
- I personally visited the IKEA showroom in Jacksonville, Florida, and spent five hours sitting on and evaluating every sofa model available.
- Each sofa was rated on a scale of 1-10 for “nappability” based on how comfortable it was for lounging and napping. Higher scores indicate a more comfortable sofa.
- The depth and softness of the seat cushions were the key factors in the ratings.
- I also considered the ease of cleaning the upholstery and the durability of the frame construction.
- I determined which lifestyles and spaces each sofa would suit best, beyond its comfort level.
- Comparisons were made to narrow down the top overall sofa based on the author’s criteria of high comfort, good durability, and family/pet-friendly design.
Sofa Showdown: Sofa and Sectional Reviews
Browsing through catalogs and testing out new sofas can get overwhelming. Here’s a quick look into the varying features to help you find the best sofa from IKEA.
| Sofa Model | Comfort Level | Size Options | Removable Cover? | Family-Friendly? | Style |
| Stockholm 2017 | Very high | Sectional available | Yes | Yes | Modern, luxe |
| Ekebol | Medium | Compact love seat | No | No | Modern, minimalist |
| Landskrona | Medium-high | Sofa or sectional | No | Yes | Classic leather |
| Stocksund | Medium | Sofa or sectional | Yes | Yes | Modern, refined |
| Dennes | Low | Sofa only | Yes | No | Mid-century modern |
| Ektorp | Low | Sofa or sectional | Yes | Yes | Casual, traditional |
| Fröslöv | Low | Sectional available | Yes | Yes | Casual, traditional |
| Lidhult | Low | Sectional available | Yes | Yes | Casual, traditional |
| Kivik | Medium | Sectional available | Yes | Yes | Casual, contemporary |
| Vimle | Medium | Sectional available | Yes | Yes | Casual, contemporary |
| Delaktig | Low | Sectional available | No | No | Modern, customizable |
| Söderhamn | Medium | Sectional available | Yes | Yes | Casual, traditional |
| Knopparp | Medium | Sectional available | Yes | Yes | Casual, traditional |
| Klippan | Low | Sofa only | Yes | Yes | Casual, traditional |
| Knislinge | Low | Sofa or sectional | No | Yes | Rustic |
| Morabo | Low | Sectional available | No | Yes | Industrial |
| Slatorp | Low | Sofa only | No | No | Mid-century modern |
| Friheten | Medium | Sofa | No | Yes | Casual, convertible |
| Brace | Low | Love seat | No | No | Contemporary |
1. Stockholm 2017
Full disclosure – I have a borderline obsession with throw pillows. I love how they make everything look so comfy, and I’ve wanted a room like a bohemian den. Stockholm is the new sofa for that fantasy!
While the sofa costs around $2400, it looks fantastic and comfortable because of the structured pillow design on the back. When you pull them off, there’s enough room for two full-sized adults and two large dogs to sleep comfortably.
It won’t be my favorite for napping. However, it can function as your full-time bed if you live in a studio or smaller apartment!
Pros
Cons
- Not a big fan of the velvet/velour upholstery texture
- The cover is not removable and can only be spot-cleaned
2. Ekebol
I’m pretty sure that this sofa was explicitly designed for the younger person who moves around a lot or lives in smaller areas that require imaginative solutions for storage and use. Ekebol looks like it should be a futon-style lounger, although it doesn’t fold down.
This is the type of sofa that functions as guest seating, napping, working, and relaxing. So, if your space requires something with multiple functions and good quality, this may be the choice for you.
Even though the sofa only costs around $399, it has an efficient yet contemporary look that mixes metals and different fabrics. I’d totally buy this for my house if I were still a new graduate entering the workforce and sharing the space with 15 other people.
Pros
- Built-in shelving around the couch
- Can be put in the middle of the room rather than against a wall, thanks to the detailed mesh on the back.
Cons
- Doesn’t look sturdy
- Maybe too utilitarian-looking for most spaces
3. Landskrona
I typically don’t like leather couches because they’re slippery and cold, and I often feel like I’m going to slide off of them. Surprisingly, the Landskona was comfortable when I sat on it. I was also amazed by how deep the seat is!
Costing around $500, the leather felt cozy and didn’t have a fake or cheap look to it that you sometimes find on a couch. The arms were also really cushiony, so I could perch on them without my bottom going numb, which is a plus in my book!
I’d give this sofa a nap score of 6 on a scale of 1 to 10. It wouldn’t be my top choice, yet I also wouldn’t hate it if my partner bought this as a new sofa without consulting me first (not that they ever would!).
Pros
- Deep-seated sectional sofa that may come with a matching love seat or ottoman
- Arms are unexpectedly cushioned so that you can perch on them comfortably
Cons
- Only available in leather
- Prone to scratches and scuffs, especially if you have pets
4. Stocksund
While I didn’t think I’d like Stocksund too much at first look, I have to say that the deep cushioning is nice! You can snuggle up on here with plenty of room for someone else.
The sofa seems like a smaller two-seater, which suits a small space, although it did look a bit worn on the showroom floor. Fortunately, you can purchase an additional cover to freshen it up. Plus, they’re machine washable.
Even with the cheapest configuration costing $399, I’d recommend this for rooms with an elegant and classic interior.
Pros
- Arm structure makes Stocksund subtly unique and gives your space a bit of flair without being over the top
- Very deep seating, which is good for snuggling up
Cons
- Deep seating can be uncomfortable in a more formal space
- Prone to staining if you like to eat dinner while sitting on sofas
5. Dennes
If you’re low on space yet want to invest in premium furniture, then Dennes is the exact sofa for you. It justifies its $2,399 price tag using a kiln-dried wooded frame for durability and a tufted seat cushion for extra plush.
Whether you choose vegan or genuine leather, the couch will last long with proper maintenance. It’s also among the sofa designs with a timeless feel that will complement most interior designs.
It’s a classic sofa with retro details. The medium firmness is also perfect if you seek slight pressure whenever you rest. The downside is that you may not find the original catalog, although you can score pretty good deals at West Elm.
Pros
- Includes foam and fiber-filled back cushion for ultimate comfort
- Uses pine and engineered wood frame to ensure longevity
Cons
- Loose, non-reversible cushion design
- Fabric scratches easily
6. Ektorp
While I love that there are so many different options available with Ektorp, ranging from $399 to $699, I’m disappointed with how firm the sofa is because you’d expect it to be comfy. This is not nap-worthy, in my opinion.
What I like about this collection is that it’s available as a three and four-seat sectional. There’s also the option to add an armchair, a love seat, and an ottoman.
However, the style can fit most interiors. For example, the traditional rolled-arm shape would fit a living room with shabby chic, country, or farmhouse styles. It’s also one of the few sofas with replaceable and washable slipcovers.
Pros
- Lots of different configuration options to choose from, so you can pick the one that’s right for your space
- Matching furniture pieces makes this a good option
Cons
- More firm than expected
- The fabric tends to collect fluff and lint
7. Fröslöv
While I like the look of Fröslöv, it’s not as comfortable as I’d like in my home. Despite that, the construction seems solid, which is fair for its $1,099 price. I also like how the arms swoop down to create a nice line.
This sofa would be perfect if I had a formal living room I wouldn’t spend a lot of time staying in. It may even be a good choice for a waiting area.
However, for everyday sitting, watching television, and napping, I want softer sofas that you can fall into. It only has two colors, so you have limited options.
Pros
- Long cushion that almost equates to a twin-sized mattress
- Solid, well-built structure for deep sitting
Cons
- Uses a rough slipcover with a tweed-like texture
- Too firm for napping
8. Lidhult
I wanted to love the Lidhult sleeper couch the moment I saw it. It looked comfortable. Unfortunately, when I lay down on it, I felt one of the springs pop into my lower back.
When I bounced around on it, the pieces moved individually, and I felt like the sofa would fall through it to the ground. Another huge plus is the collection has five removable cover color options and multiple configurations.
Even with the cheapest costing around $1000, I wanted to like this because it looked like a great sofa for a family room. However, there is no way that this would survive even a mildly rambunctious child.
Pros
- Multiple configuration options enable you to create a custom solution for your space and needs
- Removable and washable covers
Cons
- The cushion design isn’t removable
- Not very sturdy because it can be easily configured
9. Kivik
This is another one of the couches that I wanted to love because the IKEA Kivik looked super comfy and squishy. Unfortunately, I bounced onto the Kivik sofa and met with quite a bit of resistance.
With prices ranging from $549-$1999, you can choose from various configurations, including a sleeper sofa and a 7-seat U-shaped sofa.
This would be good in a living room or environment where you formally entertain. It’s a good conversation couch since you can perch on the arms as an extra seat. Anyone wearing a dress won’t have to struggle when they get up.
Pros
- Very low arms make a good ledge to perch on or to place a non-glass item
- Offers several configurations with a matching love seat and an ottoman with storage
Cons
- May be too firm for sofa sleepers
- Seat cushion tends to sink over time
10. Vimle
This is another multi-functional and big sectional sofa with tons of options to fit your space and needs. The Vimle series is another substantial furniture piece for its $1,499 to $1,699 price range. However, I found it to be much sturdier than the other firm ones I tried.
The sofa looks like it will be tough enough to withstand kids jumping on it while maintaining its shape. The cushioning bounced back as soon as I got up. I’d give this an “okay” rating.
While it’s not as comfy as the other sofas, I think this would be a good option for anyone looking for a piece for their family or living room.
Pros
- Can withstand everyday usage without wearing it down.
- Removable covers are interchangeable and washable
Cons
- Firm and not very comfy
- Armrests are taller and thinner than average
11. Delaktig
The first thing out of my mouth when I saw Delaktig was, “Well, that’s weird looking”. It doesn’t look comfortable, which was accurate. I felt like sitting on a hard bench rather than a sofa.
You may plop once seated. The backrests are low, and I did like the idea that you could maneuver them so you can use the same sofa with seating on both sides. I do, however, don’t think that this is a very durable couch.
With the cheapest at $99, I’d say this is a pretty good option as a corner seat for a little while. Big fans of modular sofas will appreciate the idea of being able to create something you can change and customize through the years.
Pros
- Very modern with a variety of modular configurations
- Sleek design fits into a contemporary space well
Cons
- May be among the least comfortable designs
- The aluminum frame doesn’t seem very durable
12. Söderhamn
Söderhamn seems to be a step up in comfort from Delaktig, where it’s a very modern design, yet it’s a bit more inviting thanks to the removable back pillow design. However, the bottom cushioning could use a bit more comfort.
I feel like the sofa is stuffed with a thin sheet, as you’d find on the inside of a quilt, rather than some actual cushioning. The frame construction is weird, and again, my “plopping” habit probably would reduce this to firewood pretty quickly.
With prices starting at $829, I’d suggest this as a showpiece or for rooms you don’t use very often and don’t do a lot of lounging in. The modern aesthetic would look lovely in a loft or larger space with other, more comfortable sofas.
Pros
- The deep seating is suitable for sprawling out
- Includes a removable and adjustable back cushion
Cons
- Very low to the ground
- Doesn’t feel sturdy
13. Knopparp
The Knopparp design is a metal bench with a cheap-looking cover thrown over it. The sofa would work as extra seating in a tiny space, although it’s not something that I would put in my home.
It’s an affordable sofa because it costs less than $200. However, it would only be ideal for something like college apartments or home offices. Two adults may find it a bit uncomfortable to sit together.
It would catch your attention, although it would be wiser to opt for better quality IKEA items. The plus side is that it’s pretty easy to move around and transport, so I’d say this would make a good prop for various setups.
Pros
- Good for small spaces
- Lightweight and has no heavy components
Cons
- Very pragmatic and doesn’t look inviting
- Feels more like a covered bench
14. Klippan
Despite being a love seat, Klippan has a spacious cushion and a lovely design. I thought I would sink right into it. The sofa had very little give when I plopped down, and I was immediately surprised by how unforgiving the back was.
This love seat is great for making you sit upright, which is helpful if you have trouble maintaining a straight posture. The back does hit right in the middle when you sit, so it doesn’t have much in the way of shoulder or neck support
I think it would be an excellent addition to a home office or waiting area, especially in the bright pattern! It just looks cheery, even if it only costs $399.
Pros
- Firm back forces you to sit up straight, although the bottom cushions make it comfortable
- Contemporary design without feeling too utilitarian
Cons
- Cushions aren’t removable
- The leather option looks and feels fake
15. Knislinge
While there is a fabric option for Knislinge, I only tested out the leather version. It has a nice leather fabric, which wasn’t shiny like you typically find when you see fake leather couches. However, once you touch it, you know it’s fake.
I didn’t mind the seat depth and felt I could sit for a while. Despite that, I don’t think I’d nap on this, not just because I wouldn’t want my skin to touch the furniture. Moreover, I feel like the sofas from this collection would be susceptible to cracking and peeling sooner rather than later.
I do think this is a good option for someone who wants a smaller couch that looks nice and isn’t terrible to sit on occasionally. The leather does have the advantage that it’s easy to keep clean.
Pros
- Supportive of your back, with a medium seat depth
- Both fabric and leather options
Cons
- It’s a wee bit on the small side
- Prone to cracks and long-term wear and tear
16. Morabo
Are you looking for a velvet beauty with a mid-century vibe? The Morabo collection is a sweet deal for you. Its standard depth and high-resilience foam cushion provide adequate back support.
The most affordable configuration for sofas starts at $1,499, letting you add a chaise lounge. The soft finish radiates a warm, comfy feel, perfect for wide living spaces. Although it’s quite expensive, I believe spending a bit more makes sense to guarantee durability.
It’s pretty easy to clean despite the thick cushion. The fabric also resists scratches much better compared to other leather furniture.
Pros
- Includes removable armrests that make it convenient to add on a chaise lounge
- Easy-to-maintain material that retains shape over time
Cons
- Limited color options
- Leans more on the expensive side when you need other configurations
17. Slatorp
I’m very impressed with the new design of the Slatorp sofa. Suppose you’re a short person who feels awkward sitting in deep sofas. Then, this is the new couch you’ve been waiting for!
As a medium-firm sofa, it does offer more support than regular soft sofas, although you’ll still feel more give than resistance.
With modular back cushions, you can adjust or stack them to adjust the comfort level to your height. Even tall people can sit comfortably once you remove the extra bolster. While the configurations range from $999 to $1499, this is a good option for shared accommodations.
Pros
- Lets you adjust the chaise lounge from left to right
- Features loose back cushions for quick seat depth adjustment and back support
Cons
- Non-removable and non-washable cover
- Material gets easily wrinkled
18. Friheten
This is something I’ve encountered from a friend’s home years ago, and I was intrigued. The Friheten collection boasts high-quality sectional sofas. It also offers a well-designed chaise that lifts, revealing storage underneath.
Even at $899, I’d say this is a pretty good deal for small living spaces or college dorms. Likewise, it can serve as a sleeper sofa for guests. Sitting on the main part feels like you have a full-sized bed or two sofas.
However, the cushions may be a bit firm to my liking. The plus side is that the firmness can help alleviate pressure if you have back pain.
Pros
- Sectional sofa that’s ideal for guest rooms
- Combines the idea of a trundle and a sofa
Cons
- Fabric tends to pile up
- Lacks a raised arm
19. Brace
You can still find the Brace collection in most showrooms, although I found a good deal at West Elm. Unlike the Dennes collection, the Brace sofa is a better option if you need a leather seat that’s much easier to clean.
I also love that the sofas are Italian-inspired pieces from the 1970s. This gives the sofa a vintage and classic look. The leather will also soften and age over time while retaining its natural color and markings.
You will splurge a whopping $3,999.00, although I’d say this is a pretty good investment if you want a statement piece in the living room of your new house.
Pros
- Thick leather with a contemporary look
- Wooded frame resists shrinkage
Cons
- Prone to fading when placed in an area with direct sunlight
- May be too large for small rooms
Final Battle: IKEA Sofas Round-up Winner
After trying out and thoroughly reviewing every single couch that was available in the showroom of Jacksonville, Florida, there was one clear winner at the end of the day: Stockholm 2017! This model hit the right notes for what I was looking for, letting me say goodbye to my old sofas from years ago.
I love this sofa so much that I’m going to redesign my living room around it. It’s the most comfortable sofa I sat on, and I noticed that my wife seemed to doze off as I was running around. Nappability rated a 12 on a scale of 1 to 10!
It’s so deep and luxurious with different pillow varieties! My wife and I can all fit comfortably on it without being on top of each other. It’s pretty much a queen-sized bed when you take off the pillows.
Related Questions
What Is the Most Comfortable Sofa Bed in IKEA?
The Stockholm 2017 sofa is the most comfortable sofa due to its ultra-deep seat cushioning that enables multiple positions for lounging and napping. With a high nap score, the Stockholm is IKEA’s most luxurious and comfy sofa.
What Is the Best IKEA Sofa for Small Spaces?
The Ekebol sofa is the best sofa for small spaces as its versatile design functions as a guest chair, lounger, and workspace in one compact piece. With built-in shelving and an open back usable from any angle, the Ekebol maximizes utility in studio apartments, dorm rooms, and other tight quarters.
Which IKEA Sofa Is Best for Everyday Use?
Landskrona is the best sofa for everyday use as it withstands frequent sitting while remaining deceptively comfortable thanks to its deep seat and cushioned arms. Its durable leather upholstery also looks new despite continuous use in high-traffic areas.
Conclusion
Thoroughly researching reviews on IKEA sofas ensures you buy the perfect sofa for lounging, napping, hosting guests, or sitting. Fingers crossed that you get to pick the right one. Make sure to choose a style that aligns with your priorities and lifestyle, resulting in a worthwhile investment and a happier home.
