Couch Comparisons

Ethan Allen vs Frontgate: Who Has Better Couches?

Which brand, Ethan Allen or Frontgate, offers a better deal on couches? Let's unpack the key differences to help you make the right choice.
Ethan Allen vs Frontgate

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Are you torn between Ethan Allen and Frontgate for your next couch purchase? Wondering which brand offers the best value for your money? Let's dive into the details to help you make an informed decision.

Side By Side

Features
Ethan Allen
Frontgate
Made to Order Lead Times 5-7 weeks 8-10 weeks
Free Shipping Option
White Glove Delivery Option $99+ $179-$449
Return Option
Warranty Included
Financing Option Ethan Allen Platinum Card Frontgate Credit Card / Affirm / Klarna
Assembly Required Varies
Large Fabric Selection
Free Swatches Available
Manufacturing Origin North America USA + Import
Avg. 3-Seat Couch Price $$$-$$$$ $$-$$$$

If you're looking for a couch that suits your style with a shorter lead time, Ethan Allen wins with a 5-7 week timeframe compared to Frontgate's 8-10 weeks. However, if return flexibility is crucial, Frontgate's 90-day return window trumps Ethan Allen's 10-day policy for Premier In-home Delivery. Frontgate offers financing through various options like Affirm and Klarna, while Ethan Allen has its own Platinum Card for financing. Despite the higher shipping fee range of $179-$449 for Frontgate, the brand's focus on sustainability may sway eco-conscious buyers in their favor.


BRAND #1: Ethan Allen

The image features the "ETHAN ALLEN" logo in bold, black, uppercase letters on a white background.

Founded in 1932, Ethan Allen has become synonymous with American style and craftsmanship. Their commitment to quality and innovation has made them a trusted name in the furniture industry for nearly a century. They offer a vast array of customizable designs, allowing customers to create unique pieces that reflect their personal style. With a focus on sustainability and a dedication to providing a premium customer experience, Ethan Allen continues to be a top choice for those seeking high-quality, timeless furniture.

Ethan Allen | Brand Summary

Now, here's a brand that's been crafting sofas since before your grandpa was a twinkle in his dad's eye. They've practically written the book on American furniture style, and their couches are no exception. But what makes an Ethan Allen sofa truly stand out in a sea of seating options? Let me tell you, it's their unwavering commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and creating pieces that are truly built to last.

You can expect top-notch materials, customizable designs that let you express your unique style, and a white-glove customer service experience that'll make you feel like royalty. But are Ethan Allen sofas worth the investment? Let's dive deeper into their collection and find out.

Ethan Allen | PotatoMeter Rating:

Online Shopping Experience Score 93%
Durability and Quality Score 92%
Shipping and Lead Time Score 90%
Vibe Check Score 90%
Customer Focus Score 92%
Overall PotatoMeter Rating 91%
Read Our Ethan Allen Brand Review

Ethan Allen | Pros & Cons

Pros

  • High-quality materials (top-grain leather, performance fabrics)
  • Made in the USA
  • Lifetime warranty on mechanisms
  • Free swatches
  • White-glove delivery
  • Customizable designs

Cons

  • Pricey
  • Long lead times for custom orders
  • Limited warranty for upholstery
  • Limited in-stock options
  • Return policy only 10 days for Premier In-home Delivery

Ethan Allen is like the grand dame of American furniture, with a legacy that whispers of timeless elegance and craftsmanship. Their sofas, whether adorned in supple leather or plush velvet, exude a classic charm that's hard to resist. And with their commitment to quality, you can rest assured that your Ethan Allen couch will be a cherished companion for years to come. Plus, their white-glove delivery service is the cherry on top, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience from showroom to living room.

Now, let's be real – this kind of luxury doesn't come cheap. Be prepared to loosen those purse strings for an Ethan Allen sofa, as they're definitely an investment piece. And if you're the impatient type, you might want to look elsewhere, as custom orders can take weeks (or even months) to arrive. Their return policy could also use a bit of a refresh, especially for those who opt for the premium in-home delivery service.

But hey, if you're all about that heirloom-quality furniture that'll make your grandma proud, Ethan Allen might just be your perfect match. Their sofas are more than just a place to sit – they're a statement of timeless style and enduring craftsmanship. So, if you're willing to invest in a piece that'll become a cherished part of your home for years to come, go ahead and treat yourself to a little bit of Ethan Allen luxury.

Shop Ethan Allen Now

BRAND #2: Frontgate

The image features the word "FRONTGATE" in all capital letters with a straightforward, serif font against a plain white background.

Frontgate, established in 1991, has carved a niche for itself by offering furniture that blends classic design with modern touches. They cater to customers who appreciate quality and are willing to invest in timeless pieces. The brand's emphasis on exclusive designs and customer experience, coupled with their commitment to sustainability, differentiates them in the market. While their sofas may not be the most budget-friendly option, they offer a luxurious and stylish addition to any living space.

Frontgate | Brand Summary

Frontgate has carved out a unique niche in the furniture market. They cater to a customer who appreciates classic design aesthetics but with a modern twist. Think clean lines, high-quality materials, and a focus on comfort that doesn't sacrifice style. While their sofas may not be the most playful or trendy, they're built to be timeless additions to your living room. But is timeless the same as boring? And how does their customer service stack up? In this review, we'll put Frontgate sofas to the test, assessing everything from comfort and construction to value and after-sales support. Get ready to peel back the layers and see if a Frontgate sofa deserves a spot on your Potatometer podium.

Frontgate | PotatoMeter Rating

Online Shopping Experience Score 93%
Durability and Quality Score 95%
Shipping and Lead Time Score 93%
Vibe Check Score 96%
Customer Focus Score 95%
Overall PotatoMeter Rating 94%
Read Our Frontgate Brand Review

Frontgate | Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Classic designs with a modern twist
  • High-quality materials (top-grain leather, performance fabrics)
  • 10-year warranty on frames, 1-2 years on cushions
  • 90-day return window
  • Free fabric swatches
  • Focus on sustainability

Cons

  • Long lead times for made-to-order sofas
  • Returns have fees and restrictions
  • White glove delivery is an extra fee
  • Assembly may be required for some sofas
  • Limited transparency regarding manufacturing partners

Frontgate, a haven for those seeking classic elegance with a contemporary flair, offers a diverse selection of sofas crafted from premium materials like top-grain leather and performance fabrics. Their commitment to quality is underscored by a generous 10-year warranty on frames, ensuring that your investment piece stands the test of time. Additionally, their 90-day return policy provides peace of mind, allowing ample time to determine if your new sofa is the perfect fit for your home.

However, this level of craftsmanship and attention to detail comes at a cost, as Frontgate sofas tend to be on the pricier side, with some models reaching luxury price points. While they offer free fabric swatches to aid in your decision-making process and provide a range of delivery options, including white-glove service, returns aren't entirely hassle-free. You might encounter restocking fees and have to handle the return shipping yourself, which could be a significant expense for larger items.

Despite these considerations, Frontgate's commitment to sustainability is a noteworthy highlight. Their efforts to incorporate recycled materials and utilize renewable energy demonstrate a conscious approach to furniture production. So, if you're drawn to timeless designs, prioritize quality, and value eco-conscious practices, Frontgate might be worth the splurge, even with the potential drawbacks and longer lead times for custom orders.

Shop Frontgate Now

And the winner is...

In the battle of couch giants, Frontgate emerges as the victor with its longer return window, sustainable practices, and diverse financing options. While Ethan Allen excels in lead time and a lifetime warranty on mechanisms, Frontgate's overall package tips the scale in their favor for those seeking a blend of timeless design and eco-conscious quality.

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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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