AllModern vs Crate and Barrel: Who Has Better Couches?
Which brand offers better couches: AllModern or Crate and Barrel?
Alex Back | Couch.com CEO & Founder
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In the quest for the perfect couch, the battle between AllModern and Crate and Barrel heats up. From modern designs to classic elegance, these brands offer a plethora of options that cater to different tastes and preferences. Let's unpack the details and find out which brand takes the crown in the couch competition.
Side By Side
Features
AllModern
Crate and Barrel
Made to Order Lead Times
3-5 weeks
4-10 weeks
Free Shipping Option
White Glove Delivery Option
$149.99
$279-$399
Return Option
Warranty Included
Financing Option
Affirm / Bread Pay / AllModern Credit Card
Crate and Barrel Credit Card
Assembly Required
Varies
Large Fabric Selection
Free Swatches Available
Manufacturing Origin
USA + Import
USA + Import
Avg. 3-Seat Couch Price
$$
$$$
Okay, let’s break it down and make a decision! AllModern beats Crate and Barrel in lead times with a 3-5 week window compared to Crate and Barrel's 4-10 weeks. AllModern's free white glove delivery and lower assembly fee of $149.99 give them an edge over Crate and Barrel's pricier delivery options. Moreover, AllModern offers more financing choices including Affirm, Bread Pay, and their own credit card, providing customers with a wider range of payment options. When it comes to easy shopping and payment, AllModern takes the cake over Crate and Barrel, making it the go-to choice for many shoppers.
BRAND #1: AllModern
Founded in 2006, AllModern revolutionized the online furniture market with its wide selection of modern designs. Now owned by Wayfair, AllModern continues to offer affordable furniture options, including both imported and USA-made couches. Their focus on convenience and affordability appeals to a broad range of customers. While they may lack a cohesive brand identity and could improve transparency regarding materials and construction, AllModern remains a popular destination for those seeking trendy furniture at accessible prices.
AllModern | Brand Summary
AllModern seems to have two clashing identities. On the surface, AllModern appears to be a place to shop for affordable furniture, offering inexpensive but trendy couches that are relatively well-priced (All Modern Furniture is owned by Wayfair, after all). But beneath that is a company that custom builds couches in the USA. These are surprisingly high quality considering the low price tag.
Yet you might never know the second option exists due to the way AllModern furniture hides it on their site. If I were only rating their made in the USA couches, they’d probably be closer to a 92%. But when you factor in the abundance of imported, lower-quality couches that are actually on display, an 85% feels more appropriate.
Potentially inconsistent quality for 3rd party couches
30-day return window with potential fees
Lack of transparency regarding materials and construction for some couches
No free shipping on all couches
Limited fabric swatch options for some couches
AllModern is a haven for budget-minded shoppers seeking a trendy new sofa. Their vast selection spans a wide range of styles and colors, ensuring you'll find something that speaks to your unique taste. With in-stock couches shipping out in as little as two days and free white-glove delivery on many models, your new centerpiece could be gracing your living room in no time. Those opting for one of their USA-made couches can rest easy knowing they come with a 3-year warranty and are constructed with durable mortise and tenon joints.
However, navigating AllModern's offerings requires a discerning eye. While their USA-made sofas generally boast good quality, their third-party couches can be a mixed bag. Some lack detailed information about materials and construction, making it difficult to assess their long-term durability. Additionally, the 30-day return window might feel a bit short, especially with the potential for restocking fees and the responsibility of return shipping falling on the customer.
Despite these caveats, All Modern Furniture remains an appealing option for those who prioritize style and affordability. With a little research and careful consideration of the specific sofa model, you can find a stylish and functional piece that fits your budget and lifestyle. Just be aware that their offerings might not satisfy those seeking the highest-quality materials or a hassle-free return experience.
Crate and Barrel, founded in 1962 by George and Carole Segal, emerged from a passion for simple, beautiful, and practical housewares discovered during their European honeymoon. With over 60 years of experience, the brand has become a household name, celebrated for its modern, timeless style and high-end aesthetic. Boasting a wide range of products for the entire home and numerous physical stores across North America and internationally, Crate & Barrel has solidified its position as an aspirational brand for those seeking a touch of elegance in their living spaces.
Crate and Barrel | Brand Summary
Crate & Barrel is a brand name that everyone knows. Crate and Barrel collaborates with artists and designers worldwide to curate globally inspired designs. Everyone has a sense that they’re a high-end, somewhat luxury brand with a price point that’s not outside the realm of attainability. They have a modern, tasteful-yet-inoffensive style that works well in most modern homes.
Crate and Barrel outlet stores are elegant and chic, but does that same style translate to their online shopping experience? Lackluster customer focus and dodgy transparency detract from an otherwise beautiful selection of couches.
Crate & Barrel, a household name in home furnishings, offers a stylish selection of sofas that blend modern flair with classic appeal. However, the allure of their elegant designs is tempered by some notable drawbacks.
The lack of a clear warranty policy raises concerns about long-term support. Additionally, the restrictive return policy for custom orders, coupled with inconsistent lead times, can lead to frustration for buyers seeking flexibility and timely delivery.
While these shortcomings are worth considering, Crate and Barrel also boasts several compelling advantages.
The brand's extensive fabric selection, detailed cleaning instructions, and complimentary swatches empower customers to make informed choices and maintain their sofas' pristine condition. White-glove delivery adds a touch of luxury to the purchasing experience, ensuring your new furniture arrives hassle-free. Furthermore, the availability of some USA-made collections appeals to those who prioritize domestic craftsmanship.
Overall, Crate & Barrel sofas offer a blend of style and convenience, albeit with some caveats. If you're willing to navigate the potential pitfalls and prioritize aesthetics and fabric choices, their collection might hold the perfect piece for your home.
In the battle of couch supremacy, Crate and Barrel emerges as the victor over AllModern. With its blend of high-end aesthetics, extensive fabric options, and white-glove delivery service, Crate and Barrel offers a luxurious couch shopping experience that sets it apart. While both brands have their strengths, Crate and Barrel's attention to detail and elegance give it the winning edge in the realm of couch shopping.
Alex Back
Couch.com CEO & Founder
Alex Back is the founder and CEO of Couch.com. Previously, he was the co-founder and COO of the popular furniture brand, Apt2B, which was acquired by a large US retail furniture chain in 2018. He worked to integrate Apt2B, one of the very first online furniture retailers on the Shopify platform, into the operations of the 100 year old larger business entity and was deeply immersed in the business operations of both online and brick and mortar retail for 4 years before leaving in 2023 to start Couch.com. Working in various parts of the furniture industry since 2004, he has 20 years experience in retail sales, e-commerce, marketing, operations, logistics and wholesale manufacturing and distribution. He has worked extensively with partners such as Costco, Bed Bath and Beyond and Amazon and his work has been highlighted in many publications such as Forbes, CNN and HGTV, among others. Alex is delighted to bring his experience and authority on couches and the furniture industry to this platform, along with many of his industry colleagues who are helping him keep the Couch.com audience informed and engaged on a daily basis.