Couch Comparisons

Ballard Designs vs One Kings Lane: Who Has Better Couches?

Who comes out on top when choosing a couch brand: Ballard Designs or One Kings Lane?
Ballard Designs vs One Kings Lane
In a battle of couch titans, who will triumph between Ballard Designs and One Kings Lane? Unveil the ultimate couch champion in this showdown.

Side By Side

Features
Ballard Designs
One Kings Lane
Made to Order Lead Times 10-12 weeks 8-12 weeks
Free Shipping Option
White Glove Delivery Option $279
Return Option
Warranty Included
Financing Option Affirm / Ballard Designs Credit Card
Assembly Required Varies
Large Fabric Selection
Free Swatches Available
Manufacturing Origin USA USA + Import
Avg. 3-Seat Couch Price $$$-$$$$ $$$-$$$$

So, you're ready to pick the perfect couch but can't decide between Ballard Designs and One Kings Lane? Let's break it down. Both brands offer high-quality couches made in the USA, with Ballard Designs having a wider fabric selection and more financing options while One Kings Lane serves up complimentary design services and a 30-day return window. When it comes to lead times, Ballard Designs leans towards around 10-12 weeks, slightly longer than One Kings Lane's 8-12 weeks. If you prioritize customization and a diverse fabric range, Ballard Designs might be your go-to. However, for those valuing design services, a hassle-free return policy, and a touch of luxury, One Kings Lane takes the crown.


BRAND #1: Ballard Designs

The image shows the logo of Ballard Designs, featuring the company name "Ballard Designs" in a serif font with capitalized letters, on a white background.

Ballard Designs, established over 35 years ago, has become a household name in the home furnishings industry. Their enduring legacy is built upon a foundation of timeless design, quality craftsmanship, and a passion for creating inspiring living spaces. The brand's dedication to sustainability and collaboration with renowned designers further solidifies their position as a leader in the market. With their commitment to excellence and customer-centric approach, Ballard Designs continues to offer furniture that stands the test of time, both in style and durability.

Ballard Designs | Brand Summary

When it comes to Ballard Designs' couches, my overall impression is genuinely positive. Their catalog reflects a dedication to craftsmanship and style that's hard to overlook. Each sofa feels like a tribute to both comfort and design, blending practicality with a touch of luxury. Amazingly, they manage to cater to a broad range of tastes without compromising on quality. From the plush cushions to the fine fabrics, Ballard Designs prioritizes user satisfaction and durability. Their market presence is strong, not just because of their product quality, but due to their understanding of what makes a home feel like home.

Ballard Designs | PotatoMeter Rating:

Online Shopping Experience Score 91%
Durability and Quality Score 93%
Shipping and Lead Time Score 93%
Vibe Check Score 93%
Customer Focus Score 94%
Overall PotatoMeter Rating 93%
Read Our Ballard Designs Brand Review

Ballard Designs | Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Elegant and timeless designs
  • High-quality materials (top-grain leather, performance fabrics, etc.)
  • Made in the USA
  • Free shipping for smaller items
  • Free fabric swatches
  • Wide range of customization options

Cons

  • Long lead times for custom-made pieces
  • Return shipping fees are not covered and a restocking fee may apply
  • Lack of transparency regarding warranty details
  • Assembly may be required
  • White-glove delivery is an added cost

Ballard Designs captures the essence of refined living with its elegant and timeless sofas. The brand's dedication to quality is evident in their use of high-end materials like top-grain leather and durable fabrics, all crafted in the USA. With a wide range of customization options and a generous selection of free swatches, you can create a sofa that perfectly complements your style and space.

The premium experience, however, comes with a few tradeoffs. The price tag for a Ballard Designs sofa can be substantial, reflecting their commitment to quality and craftsmanship. While they offer free shipping for smaller items, larger sofas may require additional delivery fees, and in-home delivery and assembly come at an extra cost. Additionally, returns, while possible, are subject to fees and certain exclusions.

Overall, Ballard Designs caters to discerning homeowners who appreciate quality, craftsmanship, and timeless design. While the investment may be significant, the brand's commitment to customer satisfaction and sustainable practices makes their sofas a worthy addition to any home.

Shop Ballard Designs Now

BRAND #2: One Kings Lane

A minimalist logo with an elephant carrying a pennant above the text "One Kings Lane." Below, the location "New York" is written in smaller font. The design is simple, using a dark green color on a white background.

One Kings Lane, founded in 2009, disrupted the online home décor market with its curated aesthetic and focus on designer finds. Their unique blend of vintage pieces and modern designs, coupled with complimentary design services, has attracted a loyal following of discerning homeowners. While their initial flash-sale model has evolved, their commitment to offering stylish, high-quality furniture remains unwavering. One Kings Lane isn't just a retailer; it's a destination for those seeking to elevate their living spaces with a touch of curated elegance.

One Kings Lane | Brand Summary

One Kings Lane knows a thing or two about curating beautiful furniture. Kings Lane's products and services, especially their sofa selection, have serious eye candy, from classic styles to those with a modern twist. While they’re not the highest-end online couch store, their sofas seem very well-made with a focus on quality materials. Customer service and design help are added bonuses, making One Kings Lane quite the “comfortable” choice for your sofa needs.

One Kings Lane | PotatoMeter Rating

Online Shopping Experience Score 92%
Durability and Quality Score 90%
Shipping and Lead Time Score 88%
Vibe Check Score 88%
Customer Focus Score 90%
Overall PotatoMeter Rating 90%
Read Our One Kings Lane Brand Review

One Kings Lane | Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Curated selection of stylish sofas
  • High-quality materials
  • Complimentary design services
  • Free fabric swatches
  • White-glove delivery option
  • 30-day return window

Cons

  • High price point
  • Limited transparency regarding warranties
  • Non-returnable items
  • Return shipping and restocking fees
  • No financing options

One Kings Lane is like that friend with impeccable taste who always knows where to find the perfect statement piece. Their curated selection of stylish sofas will make your heart skip a beat, and their complimentary design services ensure you'll find the ideal match for your space. Plus, their white-glove delivery option takes the hassle out of getting that gorgeous sofa into your living room.

But, as with any high-end retailer, there's a catch. One Kings Lane's prices aren't for the faint of heart, and their return policy, while offering a 30-day window, comes with fees and restrictions. If you're eyeing a custom piece, be prepared for a potentially lengthy wait, and don't expect full transparency on warranties upfront.

Ultimately, One Kings Lane is a treasure trove for design enthusiasts willing to invest in quality and style. However, budget-conscious shoppers or those who prioritize flexible return policies might need to temper their expectations.

Shop One Kings Lane Now

And the winner is...

In the showdown between Ballard Designs and One Kings Lane, the crown goes to One Kings Lane for its exceptional service offerings. With a curated selection, design services, a 30-day return window, and white-glove delivery, One Kings Lane keeps the customer experience at the forefront, making it the ultimate choice for those seeking quality and style.

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.
Expand