Wondering which name shines brighter in the couch arena – IKEA or Joybird? Dive in to uncover the sofa secrets behind these renowned brands!
Alex Back | Couch.com CEO & Founder
We independently select everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission.
In a clash of comfort and style, we pit IKEA against Joybird in a showdown that's bound to redefine your living room choices. Brace yourself as we dissect the features of these furniture frontrunners, unraveling the mysteries behind their designs and craftsmanship.
Side By Side
Features
IKEA
Joybird
Made to Order Lead Times
N/A
4-8 Weeks
Free Shipping Option
White Glove Delivery Option
$129-$299
Return Option
Warranty Included
Financing Option
IKEA Projekt Credit Card
Affirm
Assembly Required
Large Fabric Selection
Free Swatches Available
Manufacturing Origin
Import
Mexico
Avg. 3-Seat Couch Price
$-$$
$$$
When diving into couch choices, IKEA offers a range of styles at budget-friendly prices, focusing on sustainability and durability. Meanwhile, Joybird sets itself apart with high-quality materials, a vast fabric selection, and a commitment to longevity, making it a mid-range to premium contender for those valuing style and craftsmanship. Each brand brings unique traits to the table, allowing customers to decide based on their priorities and preferences.
BRAND #1: IKEA
IKEA, a Swedish furniture giant with a global presence, has revolutionized the industry with its affordable, ready-to-assemble furniture. Founded in 1943, the company has become synonymous with modern, functional design and a commitment to sustainability. Their unique shopping experience, complete with showrooms and Swedish meatballs, has made them a beloved destination for home decor enthusiasts worldwide.
IKEA | Brand Summary
You know that feeling when you find the perfect pair of jeans on sale? That's how some of their IKEA sofas make me feel. Sure, IKEA isn't a high-end designer brand, but that doesn't mean they don't deserve a spot on your radar. You've just got to be a little pickier and know what to look for. Overall, I'm pleasantly surprised with their focus on modern design and budget-conscious craftsmanship. Let's just say, there are definitely some hidden gems at IKEA.
Limited transparency on material sourcing and construction details for some models
180-day return window for opened sofas may not be sufficient for everyone
Restocking fees for returns
IKEA is the undisputed king of affordable furniture, and their sofas are no exception. They've got a whole buffet of styles, from sleek and modern to cozy and traditional, so no matter your taste (or your budget), you're bound to find something you love. And the fact that they're putting serious effort into sustainability? That's the cherry on top of those delicious Swedish meatballs.
Now, let's get real. You're not buying an IKEA sofa for heirloom quality craftsmanship. These babies are designed for everyday life, not museum displays. That means some assembly is required (hello, Allen wrench!), and the materials might not be as luxurious as those high-end brands. Plus, while their 365-day return policy for unopened boxes is amazing, the 180-day window for assembled sofas might feel a bit short.
But here's the thing: IKEA knows its strengths. They offer a mind-boggling array of designs, with most sofas under $2,000. Their 10-year warranty on frames and cushions is surprisingly generous for the price, and their commitment to sustainability is more than just lip service. So, if you're after a stylish, functional sofa that won't break the bank, IKEA's got your back (and your bum!).
Joybird was launched in 2013 and instantly charmed the world with their Instagram-worthy couches. They've since cemented themselves as one of the top online furniture brands. They are currently owned by La-Z-Boy.
Joybird | Brand Summary
Joybird has stood the test of time and firmly cemented themselves as one of the best online couch retailers at their price point. They have a professional-yet-fun presentation, offer great quality products for the price, and allow customers to pick from dozens of beautiful fabrics.
I have a few minor gripes with the website shopping experience and I’d encourage everyone to thoroughly examine the shipping and return policies, but overall there’s very little to criticize. Dare I say that Joybird sparks joy? I do dare.
Couch Potato Note: Joybird is almost always on sale for up to 30% off. For this review, their price point is assumed to be 30% off the listed price. You should always wait for a sale before you buy a couch from Joybird (and you won’t have to wait very long). For all intents and purposes, their sale price is their actual price.
Joybird presents itself as a fun, trendy, and flashy brand. And for the most part, their couches deliver on that promise. But there are a few aspects that might detract from their appeal. Their couches are all made in Mexico, which also means that their lead times are not quite as good as other brands. Pricey white glove delivery and potentially costly returns might make ordering online feel like a gamble. And while Joybird has a huge fabric selection for their custom couches, choosing certain fabrics can add hundreds of dollars to your order.
On the flip side, Joybird furniture has many brick-and-mortar locations in major metropolitan areas, allowing you to test out their couches in person. This is rare for an online couch company but is a major perk. Like Apt2B, Joybird has a large selection of stylish couches in a huge range of sizes and configurations. They offer loveseats all the way up through large modular sectional sofas. Joybird also has a great selection of affordable sofa beds and sleeper sectional sofas. They also back their high-quality couch frames with a lifetime warranty as well as a 1-year warranty on their top-tier upholstery craftsmanship. If you want it, Joybird has it.
Emerging victorious in this sofa face-off is Joybird, with its high-quality craftsmanship, extensive design options, and durability. Joybird's commitment to customer style preferences and lasting comfort sets it apart, making it an irresistible choice for those seeking a premium sofa experience.
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.
