Curious about which brand offers the comfiest seating experience? Join us on a cushiony adventure as Frontgate and AllModern battle it out for the title of sofa royalty.
Alex Back | Couch.com CEO & Founder
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Are you ready to find out who dominates the couch game? In one corner, we have Frontgate, known for classic elegance. In the other, AllModern, the reigning champ of trendy affordability. Let's unravel the who's who of couch comfort in this heavyweight bout.
Side By Side
Features
Frontgate
AllModern
Made to Order Lead Times
8-10 weeks
3-5 weeks
Free Shipping Option
White Glove Delivery Option
$179-$449
$149.99
Return Option
Warranty Included
Financing Option
Frontgate Credit Card / Affirm / Klarna
Affirm / Bread Pay / AllModern Credit Card
Assembly Required
Varies
Varies
Large Fabric Selection
Free Swatches Available
Manufacturing Origin
USA + Import
USA + Import
Avg. 3-Seat Couch Price
$$-$$$$
$$
In the quest for the perfect sofa, the choice between Frontgate and AllModern depends on individual preferences. Frontgate's emphasis on classic designs and high-quality materials caters to those seeking premium or luxury options, while AllModern's trendy and affordable offerings appeal to budget and mid-range shoppers. Frontgate's commitment to sustainability and customer focus through longer warranties contrasts with AllModern's strengths in choice variety and shipping convenience. To select the ideal couch, consider your style preference, desired durability, and whether sustainability or affordability is your top priority.
BRAND #1: Frontgate
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, 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.
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.
With its dedication to classic designs, top-notch materials, and sustainability, Frontgate resonates with buyers valuing timeless elegance and lasting quality. While AllModern's trendy styles and affordable options cater to budget-conscious shoppers seeking fashion-forward pieces, Frontgate's overall value proposition and durability make it stand out as the winning choice. For those looking to invest in long-term comfort and style, Frontgate emerges as the clear winner in this sofa standoff.
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.