Couch Comparisons

EQ3 vs Hem: Who Has Better Couches?

Which brand offers a wider selection of customizable options, EQ3 or Hem?
Alex Back | Couch.com CEO & Founder
EQ3 vs Hem

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    Two heavyweight sofa brands, EQ3 and Hem, go head-to-head in our detailed comparison. Find out which one offers the perfect blend of design, comfort, and quality for your living space.

    Side By Side

    Features
    EQ3
    Hem
    Made to Order Lead Times 5-7 weeks 1-7 Weeks
    Free Shipping Option
    White Glove Delivery Option $199 $299
    Return Option
    Warranty Included
    Financing Option Affirm Affirm
    Assembly Required Varies
    Large Fabric Selection
    Free Swatches Available
    Manufacturing Origin Canada Europe
    Avg. 3-Seat Couch Price $$$-$$$$ $$$$

    When evaluating EQ3 and Hem sofas side by side, several differences emerge. EQ3 boasts lead times of 5-7 weeks for made-to-order items compared to Hem's 1-7 weeks. Financing options are available with Affirm for Hem but not for EQ3. Furthermore, while EQ3 offers a 30-day return window for stocked items, Hem has a more restricted return policy. Additionally, Hem provides a broader range of shipping lead times compared to EQ3, showcasing their flexibility in delivery options.


    BRAND #1: EQ3

    The image shows the logo for the brand EQ3, which consists of the letters "E," "Q," and the number "3" in a bold, black font. The logo is centered on a white background.

    Founded in 2001 in Winnipeg, EQ3 is a Canadian furniture company that prides itself on its commitment to design, craftsmanship, and sustainability. Their sofas are made in Canada with a focus on quality materials and construction, ensuring longevity and comfort. With a wide range of customization options and a dedication to environmental responsibility, EQ3 appeals to those who value both style and substance in their furniture choices.

    EQ3 | Brand Summary

    I'm always on the lookout for brands that aren't afraid to push the envelope when it comes to design and comfort. EQ3 consistently impresses me with their innovative approach, utilizing premium materials and thoughtful design elements to create sofas that are as unique as they are comfortable. From their sleek modern lines to their plush, inviting cushions, EQ3 sofas are a testament to their commitment to craftsmanship and quality.

    But what truly sets EQ3 apart is their dedication to creating a sofa that's not just a piece of furniture, but an extension of your personal style. Their extensive customization options allow you to tailor every detail, from the fabric and color to the leg style and configuration, ensuring your EQ3 sofa is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece that perfectly reflects your individual taste.

    EQ3 | PotatoMeter Rating:

    Online Shopping Experience Score 87%
    Durability and Quality Score 90%
    Shipping and Lead Time Score 86%
    Vibe Check Score 88%
    Customer Focus Score 94%
    Overall PotatoMeter Rating 89%
    Read Our EQ3 Brand Review

    EQ3 | Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • Innovative designs with focus on comfort and larger scale
    • High-quality materials like kiln-dried hardwood and top-grain leather
    • 25-year warranty on custom upholstery frames and springs
    • 30-day return window for stocked items
    • Free swatches available
    • Made in Canada

    Cons

    • Longer lead times for made-to-order sofas
    • 20% restocking fee for returns or cancellations after 72 hours
    • Limited transparency regarding specific construction details
    • Curbside delivery is standard (white-glove available for a fee)
    • No expedited shipping options

    EQ3, a Canadian brand with a passion for innovative designs, offers sofas that strike a harmonious balance between comfort, style, and functionality. Their use of premium materials like top-grain leather and kiln-dried hardwood, along with their generous 25-year warranty, demonstrates their unwavering commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. And for those who crave a personal touch, their vast selection of fabrics and customization options will make your sofa truly one-of-a-kind.

    If you're the impatient type, EQ3's lead times for made-to-order sofas might feel a bit like waiting for a pot of poutine to simmer. But hey, good things take time, right? And while their free curbside delivery is a nice perk, some might prefer the convenience of white-glove service (at an additional cost, of course). And for the detail-oriented folks out there, a bit more transparency about construction methods would be appreciated.

    So, if you're in search of a well-made, stylish sofa that's built to withstand the test of time (and maybe a few spilled maple syrups), EQ3 is definitely worth checking out. Just be prepared for a potential wait and decide if the customization options and Canadian craftsmanship are worth the investment.

    Shop EQ3 Now

    BRAND #2: Hem

    The image features the word "Hem" in bold, black text against a plain white background.

    Hem is a design-forward furniture company that partners with renowned designers to create modern pieces with a Scandinavian aesthetic. Their commitment to quality is evident in their use of premium materials and focus on durable construction. Founded by Petrus Palmer, Hem aims to be a driving force in the design community, offering stylish and functional furniture that stands the test of time. Their emphasis on sustainability is also noteworthy, with a focus on responsible materials and minimizing waste in production and packaging.

    Hem | Brand Summary

    Hem nails the balance between playful design and grown-up craftsmanship. Their sofas won't fall apart after a month, and the fabrics feel surprisingly luxurious for the price point. While I have a few nitpicks (which we'll get into shortly!), I was pleasantly surprised by how well the brand walks the line between trendy and timeless. If you're looking for furniture with personality but don't want to compromise on quality, Hem is absolutely worth checking out.

    Hem | PotatoMeter Rating

    Online Shopping Experience Score 93%
    Durability and Quality Score 92%
    Shipping and Lead Time Score 93%
    Vibe Check Score 95%
    Customer Focus Score 90%
    Overall PotatoMeter Rating 93%
    Read Our Hem Brand Review

    Hem | Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • Stylish, modern designs with a Scandinavian twist
    • Durable construction with quality materials
    • Transparent shipping information and multiple shipping methods
    • Financing options available through Affirm
    • Free fabric swatches
    • Strong emphasis on sustainability

    Cons

    • Limited return window
    • Expensive return shipping and repackaging fees
    • No free shipping
    • Limited customization options
    • Limited information on cushion construction and support systems

    Hem offers stylish, Scandinavian-inspired sofas that boast quality craftsmanship and durable materials. Their dedication to transparency is evident in their clear shipping information and detailed care instructions. However, the limited return window and hefty return fees could be a dealbreaker for some, and the lack of free shipping adds to the overall cost. While their customizable options are decent, they might not satisfy those seeking extensive personalization.

    Overall, Hem is a strong contender for design-conscious buyers willing to invest in quality, but potential customers should weigh the costs and limitations before committing.

    Shop Hem Now

    And the winner is...

    In the battle of EQ3 vs. Hem couches, one brand emerges victorious: Hem. With quicker lead times, financing options, and a more transparent shipping approach, Hem offers a compelling package for those seeking a stylish and efficient sofa solution.

    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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