Couch Comparisons

Apt2B vs IKEA: Who Has Better Couches?

Who will reign supreme in the couch realm—Apt2B or IKEA? Uncover the best pick for your living space with this epic brand face-off!
Alex Back | Couch.com CEO & Founder
Apt2B vs IKEA

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    Step into the ring of home furnishings as we pit Apt2B against IKEA in a clash of couch titans. On one side, Apt2B boasts its USA-made sofas; on the other, the renowned IKEA, serving up a mix of budget-friendly and modern designs.

    Side By Side

    Features
    Apt2B
    IKEA
    Made to Order Lead Times 2-4 weeks N/A
    Free Shipping Option
    White Glove Delivery Option $149
    Return Option
    Warranty Included
    Financing Option Bread Pay IKEA Projekt Credit Card
    Assembly Required Varies
    Large Fabric Selection
    Free Swatches Available
    Manufacturing Origin USA + Import Import
    Avg. 3-Seat Couch Price $$$ $-$$

    Style-wise, IKEA caters to budget to mid-range shoppers with diverse designs, emphasizing sustainability and offering a 10-year warranty. Apt2B showcases a wide range of designs suited for mid-range to premium buyers, with a focus on customization and high-quality materials, including USA-made products.


    BRAND #1: Apt2B

    A black and white logo consists of two sections: the left side reads "APT 2B" and the right side reads "Modern Furniture." The text is enclosed in a rectangular border.

    Apt2B was founded in 2010 with the goal of providing customizable, USA made apartment size sofas at an affordable price. They've since expanded their offering to include sectionals, sofa beds, and more. Apt2B was recently acquired by The RoomPlace.

    Apt2B | Brand Summary

    Apt2B is a really fantastic option if you’re looking for a couch, sleeper sofa, or sectional that’s made in the USA, customizable, is made from quality materials, and ships quick. The delivery process is smooth and stress-free, highlighting the convenience from order placement to receiving the product.

    But Apt2B furniture also offers “exclusive import” products that are manufactured overseas and don’t match the rest of their quality. This leads to a bit of an identity crisis on the website and weakens their overall rating. For the sake of this review I will mostly be focusing on their collection of Made in the USA couches, which is also what you should do when shopping at Apt2B.

    Couch Potato Note: Like Joybird, I’d recommend that you only order Apt2B couches when they’re on sale (and they’re almost always on sale).

    Apt2B | PotatoMeter Rating:

    Online Shopping Experience Score 83%
    Durability and Quality Score 89%
    Shipping and Lead Time Score 89%
    Vibe Check Score 80%
    Customer Focus Score 84%
    Overall PotatoMeter Rating 85%
    Read Our Apt2B Brand Review

    Apt2B | Pros & Cons

    Pros
    • Most couches made in the USA
    • Exceptionally fast lead times
    • Huge fabric selection
    • Tons of couch styles and sizes
    • High quality materials for the price
    • Fabrics are all the same price
    Cons
    • Some couches imported from overseas
    • Essentially only offers a 1-year warranty
    • Returns can be costly
    • No brick-and-mortar locations

    Apt2B has a bit of a split personality when it comes to their couch offerings. They have high-quality, made-in-the-USA sofas, but they also sell cheaper, lower-quality, imported couches. It can be hard to tell which is which when shopping on their website. Their imported couches do not have a warranty, and their USA-made couches essentially have a 1-year warranty despite language promoting a lifetime warranty. A lack of brick-and-mortar locations makes it difficult to judge Apt2B’s quality and comfort in person.

    However, they have an excellent range of USA-made couch sizes and styles available in dozens of fabrics. They sell large 2-piece sectional sofas, sectional sleeper sofas, apartment-size sofas, and big modular couches. If you want mid-century modern couches or modern couches you’ll have plenty to choose from at Apt2B furniture. Apt2B also has some of the fastest lead times for custom-built, USA-made sofas we’ve ever seen. The icing on the cake? Apt2B uses high-quality materials, especially at their competitive, mid-tier price point. Plus, every upholstery fabric option is the same price, so you can customize to your heart’s content.

    Shop Apt2B Now

    BRAND #2: IKEA

    The image displays the IKEA logo, which consists of the brand name "IKEA" in bold blue letters centered within a yellow oval. This yellow oval is set against a rectangular blue background. IKEA is a globally recognized furniture and home goods retailer.

    IKEA, a Swedish furniture giant with a global presence, has revolutionized the industry with its affordable, ready-to-assemble furniture. Founded in 1943, the company has become synonymous with modern, functional design and a commitment to sustainability. Their unique shopping experience, complete with showrooms and Swedish meatballs, has made them a beloved destination for home decor enthusiasts worldwide.

    IKEA | Brand Summary

    You know that feeling when you find the perfect pair of jeans on sale? That's how some of their IKEA sofas make me feel. Sure, IKEA isn't a high-end designer brand, but that doesn't mean they don't deserve a spot on your radar. You've just got to be a little pickier and know what to look for. Overall, I'm pleasantly surprised with their focus on modern design and budget-conscious craftsmanship. Let's just say, there are definitely some hidden gems at IKEA.

    IKEA | PotatoMeter Rating

    Online Shopping Experience Score 93%
    Durability and Quality Score 90%
    Shipping and Lead Time Score 91%
    Vibe Check Score 96%
    Customer Focus Score 95%
    Overall PotatoMeter Rating 93%
    Read Our IKEA Brand Review

    IKEA | Pros & Cons

    Pros
    • Wide variety of styles at affordable prices
    • Fast shipping for in-stock items
    • Multiple delivery options available
    • 10-year warranty on most sofa frames and cushions
    • Strong commitment to sustainability
    Cons
    • Assembly required for most sofas
    • Some fabrics may lack durability
    • Limited transparency on material sourcing and construction details for some models
    • 180-day return window for opened sofas may not be sufficient for everyone
    • Restocking fees for returns

    IKEA is the undisputed king of affordable furniture, and their sofas are no exception. They've got a whole buffet of styles, from sleek and modern to cozy and traditional, so no matter your taste (or your budget), you're bound to find something you love. And the fact that they're putting serious effort into sustainability? That's the cherry on top of those delicious Swedish meatballs.

    Now, let's get real. You're not buying an IKEA sofa for heirloom quality craftsmanship. These babies are designed for everyday life, not museum displays. That means some assembly is required (hello, Allen wrench!), and the materials might not be as luxurious as those high-end brands. Plus, while their 365-day return policy for unopened boxes is amazing, the 180-day window for assembled sofas might feel a bit short.

    But here's the thing: IKEA knows its strengths. They offer a mind-boggling array of designs, with most sofas under $2,000. Their 10-year warranty on frames and cushions is surprisingly generous for the price, and their commitment to sustainability is more than just lip service. So, if you're after a stylish, functional sofa that won't break the bank, IKEA's got your back (and your bum!).

    Shop IKEA Now

    And the winner is...

    In this epic couch showdown, Apt2B steals the spotlight with its focus on customization, superior quality, and USA manufacturing. The brand's commitment to premium experiences and lasting durability gives it the winning edge, making Apt2B the ultimate choice for those seeking top-notch style and comfort.

    A smiling man with short brown hair and a beard stands on a beach during sunset. He is wearing a black short-sleeved shirt with small white dots. The ocean and sandy shore are in the background, creating a warm and relaxed atmosphere.
    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.
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