Couch Comparisons

Hem vs Urban Outfitters: Who Has Better Couches?

Wondering which brand's couches deliver snug satisfaction: Hem or Urban Outfitters? Let's explore the comfy realms each brand offers to elevate your lounging experience.
Alex Back | Couch.com CEO & Founder
Hem vs Urban Outfitters

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    Ready to embark on a sofa journey and pick between Hem and Urban Outfitters for a chic addition to your living space? Let's unravel the unique offerings of each brand to see which one deserves a spot in your home.

    Side By Side

    Features
    Hem
    Urban Outfitters
    Made to Order Lead Times 1-7 Weeks 6-8 weeks
    Free Shipping Option
    White Glove Delivery Option $299 $199
    Return Option
    Warranty Included
    Financing Option Affirm Afterpay / Klarna
    Assembly Required Varies Varies
    Large Fabric Selection
    Free Swatches Available
    Manufacturing Origin Europe USA + Import
    Avg. 3-Seat Couch Price $$$$ $-$$

    In the battle of Hem versus Urban Outfitters, Hem emerges as the winner for those valuing style, durability, sustainability, and overall value. Hem's focus on Scandinavian designs, durable materials, sustainability efforts, and customer-centric approach sets it apart as the top choice for a long-lasting and chic addition to your home, offering premium quality at a justified price point.


    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: Urban Outfitters

    The image shows the text "Urban Outfitters" in bold, black capital letters on a plain white background.

    Evolving from a small college-town shop to a global lifestyle brand, Urban Outfitters has a knack for capturing the zeitgeist with its trendy and eclectic offerings. Their sofas, like their clothing, are designed to make a statement and reflect individual style. With a focus on affordable prices and a commitment to sustainability, they appeal to the younger, design-conscious crowd who wants to create a unique and inviting home.

    Urban Outfitters | Brand Summary

    Urban Outfitters might not be the first name that pops into your head when you think "sofa shopping," but hear me out. They've got a pretty solid selection of couches that are perfect for the style-conscious and budget-minded among us. Sure, their sofas might not be the most luxurious or the most customizable, but they definitely deliver on the cool factor. You'll find unique designs, bold colors, and trendy fabrics that'll make your living room the envy of all your friends.

    And while they might not be heirloom-quality pieces, they're definitely built to last a few years (or more, if you treat them right). Plus, their commitment to sustainability is a major bonus for those of us who care about the planet as much as we care about our décor. So, if you're looking for a sofa that's stylish, affordable, and a little bit quirky, Urban Outfitters is definitely worth a browse. Just don't expect them to blow your mind with groundbreaking technology or ultra-luxe materials. They're all about delivering solid style and comfort at a price that won't make you cringe.

    Urban Outfitters | PotatoMeter Rating

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

    Urban Outfitters | Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • Trendy and unique designs
    • Affordable prices
    • Fast shipping for in-stock items
    • Variety of delivery options
    • Free fabric swatches
    • Commitment to sustainability

    Cons

    • Limited customization options
    • Return shipping fees and restocking fee for mailed returns
    • Furniture can only be returned via carrier
    • Quality can vary between models
    • Limited transparency regarding materials and construction

    Urban Outfitters might not be the first place you think of when you're on the hunt for a new sofa, but hold up a sec – they might just surprise you! Their collection is bursting with personality, featuring trendy designs and unique fabrics that'll give your living room that Instagram-worthy flair. Plus, the prices won't make your wallet weep, which is always a bonus. And let's be honest, who doesn't love the convenience of quick shipping and free swatches?

    Now, don't expect these sofas to be handcrafted masterpieces passed down through generations. Urban Outfitters focuses on keeping things hip and affordable, so the materials might not be top-of-the-line. And if you're the type who needs to customize every little detail, you might be a tad disappointed with their limited options.

    But hey, if you're looking for a stylish statement piece that reflects your unique personality, Urban Outfitters has got you covered. They're all about those fun and funky vibes, and their sofas are no exception. So, if you're willing to trade a bit of customization and longevity for affordability and personality, go ahead and give Urban Outfitters a chance to wow you with their sofa selection.

    Shop Urban Outfitters Now

    And the winner is...

    After a detailed comparison, Hem takes the lead as the top brand, excelling in style, durability, sustainability, and overall value. With its Scandinavian designs, quality materials, and customer-centric approach, Hem clinches the victory as the preferred choice for those seeking an enduring piece that combines aesthetics with eco-consciousness.

    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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