Couch Comparisons

Hem vs Neighbor: Who Has Better Couches?

Who takes home the crown in the battle of the couches: Hem or Neighbor? Let's delve into the world of sofas and discover the perfect blend of style and comfort from these top-notch brands!
Hem vs Neighbor
Step into a realm where comfort meets style as we compare Hem and Neighbor, two powerhouses in the sofa game. Get ready to explore the nuances of design, quality, and customer focus that set these brands apart. Buckle up for an adventure in the world of premium seating!

Side By Side

Features
Hem
Neighbor
Made to Order Lead Times 1-7 Weeks 2-12 weeks
Free Shipping Option
White Glove Delivery Option $299 $0-$195+
Return Option
Warranty Included
Financing Option Affirm Affirm
Assembly Required Varies
Large Fabric Selection
Free Swatches Available
Manufacturing Origin Europe Vietnam
Avg. 3-Seat Couch Price $$$$ $$$$

Hem and Neighbor both offer unique styles and high-quality furniture pieces, each catering to different needs and preferences. Hem stands out with its trendy indoor sofas that prioritize modern design and durability, suiting those looking for luxurious comfort at a premium price point. On the other hand, Neighbor excels in providing sustainable outdoor furniture with a focus on longevity and eco-friendly materials, targeting customers seeking quality and environmentally conscious choices. With Hem delivering chic elegance indoors and Neighbor championing outdoor durability and sustainability, the decision ultimately comes down to personal style, preference for indoor or outdoor settings, and the value placed on eco-friendly materials.


BRAND #1: 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

BRAND #2: Neighbor

Stylized cursive text that reads "neighbor" in black on a white background. The letters are connected in a fluid, elegant script.

Neighbor, founded with a vision to revolutionize outdoor living, is a brand that stands out for its commitment to sustainability, quality, and community. Their focus on durable, eco-friendly materials and thoughtful design is evident in their range of outdoor sofas. With a unique Neighborhood Showroom program and dedication to customer satisfaction, Neighbor is more than just a furniture brand; it's a lifestyle choice for those who value the outdoors and seek to create inviting spaces that foster connection and relaxation.

Neighbor | Brand Summary

In reviewing Neighbor's outdoor furniture, one can't help but be struck by their innovative approach to design and community engagement. Their products, especially the modular options, are a testament to their commitment to versatility and quality. The choice of materials, such as FSC-certified teak and Sunbrella fabric, speaks volumes about their dedication to sustainability and longevity.

As a self proclaimed connoisseur of great furniture, I'm particularly drawn to their narrative of enriching lives through design and their transparent customer service ethos. Neighbor doesn't just sell furniture; they offer a vision of outdoor living that's both aspirational and attainable, underpinned by a strong sense of integrity and joy. I’m a believer in their mantra to turn the outdoors into your living room. Sounds pretty great, doesn't it?

Neighbor | PotatoMeter Rating

Online Shopping Experience Score 93%
Durability and Quality Score 96%
Shipping and Lead Time Score 91%
Vibe Check Score 94%
Customer Focus Score 95%
Overall PotatoMeter Rating 94%
Read Our Neighbor Brand Review

Neighbor | Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Innovative designs for outdoor living
  • High-quality, sustainable materials (FSC-certified teak wood, Sunbrella fabrics, etc)
  • Generous 5-year warranty on cushions and covers
  • 45-day return policy with free returns on damaged items
  • Free fabric swatches available
  • Complimentary standard home delivery in the contiguous U.S.

Cons

  • Expensive price point
  • Potential 15% restocking fee for returns
  • Limited customization options
  • White glove delivery is an extra fee
  • Geographic limitations for white-glove delivery

Neighbor's dedication to quality and sustainable practices shines through in their outdoor sofas, which are built to last using premium materials like FSC-certified teak and Sunbrella fabric. Their generous warranty and 45-day return window offer peace of mind, while free standard shipping sweetens the deal.

The investment in a Neighbor sofa comes at a premium price, and the potential for restocking fees on returns might give some budget-conscious shoppers pause. Customization options are limited beyond fabric and configuration choices, and white-glove delivery comes at an added cost.

Overall, Neighbor is a top choice for those who prioritize sustainable, high-quality outdoor furniture and are willing to invest in long-lasting pieces that elevate their outdoor living spaces.

Shop Neighbor Now

And the winner is...

After exploring the realms of indoor sophistication with Hem and outdoor durability with Neighbor, the clear winner emerges as Hem. With a focus on trendy design, premium materials, and a balance of style and durability, Hem caters to those who value modern chic in their furniture. Its commitment to sustainability and high-quality craftsmanship sets it apart, making Hem the top choice for buyers seeking a blend of luxury and durability in their indoor seating experience.

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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