Couch Comparisons

La-Z-Boy vs Design Within Reach: Who Has Better Couches?

Ready to upgrade your living room with a new sofa but torn between La-Z-Boy and Design Within Reach? Discover which brand delivers the perfect blend of comfort and chic design as you delve into our sofa battle!
Alex Back | Couch.com CEO & Founder
La-Z-Boy vs Design Within Reach

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    Step right up to witness the epic showdown between two sofa giants, La-Z-Boy and Design Within Reach. Buckle in as we navigate through the realms of comfort, design, and durability to uncover which brand emerges as the ultimate champion of sitting in style.

    Side By Side

    Features
    La-Z-Boy
    Design Within Reach
    Made to Order Lead Times 8-12 weeks 8-12 weeks
    Free Shipping Option
    White Glove Delivery Option Varies $399-$599
    Return Option
    Warranty Included
    Financing Option La-Z-Boy Credit Card Affirm
    Assembly Required Varies
    Large Fabric Selection
    Free Swatches Available
    Manufacturing Origin USA USA + Import
    Avg. 3-Seat Couch Price $$-$$$ $$$$

    Evaluating the style range, La-Z-Boy offers customization catering to a variety of tastes. In terms of durability, La-Z-Boy's sofas are known for long-lasting comfort and quality features, ensuring a worthwhile investment. Moreover, La-Z-Boy puts customer preferences at the forefront by prioritizing both comfort and design, making it a versatile choice for discerning buyers.


    BRAND #1: La-Z-Boy

    La-Z-Boy logo with the word "LA-Z-BOY" written in black capital letters. The "Z" is larger, bold, and enclosed in a blue oval shape. The background is white.

    Founded in 1927, La-Z-Boy has a long and storied history as a pioneer in comfortable furniture. Their innovative recliner design revolutionized the industry and they've continued to evolve, offering a wide range of stylish sofas and sectionals with a focus on customization and high-quality materials. While their prices might be higher than some competitors, La-Z-Boy's commitment to American craftsmanship, comfort, and durability has earned them a loyal following of customers who value both style and substance.

    La-Z-Boy | Brand Summary

    Imagine a sofa that's as reliable as your best friend, always there to offer comfort and support. That's the kind of relationship La-Z-Boy aims to build with its customers. Their focus on quality, craftsmanship, and American-made goodness makes their sofas and sectionals more than just furniture – they're lifelong companions. And let's be honest, who doesn't want a best friend that's also incredibly comfortable? La-Z-Boy's patented ComfortCore® cushions and innovative reclining mechanisms will make you feel like you're floating on a cloud. So, if you're looking for a sofa that will stick with you through thick and thin (and likely a few spilled snacks), La-Z-Boy is a worthy contender.

    La-Z-Boy | PotatoMeter Rating:

    Online Shopping Experience Score 88%
    Durability and Quality Score 89%
    Shipping and Lead Time Score 86%
    Vibe Check Score 88%
    Customer Focus Score 88%
    Overall PotatoMeter Rating 88%
    Read Our La-Z-Boy Brand Review

    La-Z-Boy | Pros & Cons

    Pros
    • Comfortable and stylish designs
    • Patented ComfortCore® cushions
    • Innovative reclining mechanisms
    • Lifetime warranty on reclining mechanisms
    • Made in the USA (primarily)
    • Wide range of customization options
    Cons
    • Expensive (average 3-seater sofa $1,600-$2,400)
    • Long lead times for made-to-order items (8-12 weeks)
    • Limited 3-day return window with exchanges only
    • Up to 30% restocking fee on returns
    • Some components have shorter warranties

    You can always count on your La-Z-Boy if you're looking for a comfy spot to crash. Their sofas are known for their cloud-like comfort, thanks to those patented ComfortCore® cushions and fancy reclining mechanisms. And with a lifetime warranty on those mechanisms, you know this friendship is built to last. Plus, you can customize your La-Z-Boy to match your unique style, just like picking out the perfect outfit for a night out with your bestie.

    But hey, even the best friendships have a few quirks. La-Z-Boy's sofas can be a bit pricey, so be prepared to shell out a bit more dough for that luxurious comfort. And if you're the impatient type, those made-to-order lead times might feel like forever. Plus, their return policy is a bit like a tough-love friend – only a 3-day window for exchanges and potential fees if you change your mind.

    So, if you're seeking a sofa that's more than just furniture – a true companion for movie nights, lazy Sundays, and everything in between – La-Z-Boy might just be the BFF your living room's been missing. Just remember, good things come to those who wait (and who are willing to spend a little extra).

    Shop La-Z-Boy Now

    BRAND #2: Design Within Reach

    The image features a red rectangular logo with the text "DESIGN WITHIN REACH" in uppercase white letters. A thin white rectangular border encloses the text.

    Founded in 1998, Design Within Reach has long been a trailblazer in making iconic modern designs accessible to the masses. With a focus on partnering with renowned designers and showcasing timeless pieces, they have become a go-to destination for those seeking furniture that is both functional and visually stunning. DWR's commitment to quality craftsmanship is evident in their sofas, often featuring premium materials and meticulous attention to detail. While their price point might be a barrier for some, their dedication to design excellence and exceptional customer service continues to attract a loyal following of design enthusiasts.

    Design Within Reach | Brand Summary

    Design Within Reach markets itself as the source for accessible, authentic design pieces. Those are some big promises! As a furniture nerd, I had to try them out for myself. Overall, the hype is mostly justified – there's a reason DWR has staying power in this industry. Their focus on quality stands out, but their offerings aren't for everyone's budget (or style). Let's dig into why (or why not) these couches might be your thing.

    Design Within Reach | PotatoMeter Rating

    Online Shopping Experience Score 87%
    Durability and Quality Score 88%
    Shipping and Lead Time Score 86%
    Vibe Check Score 90%
    Customer Focus Score 88%
    Overall PotatoMeter Rating 88%
    Read Our Design Within Reach Brand Review

    Design Within Reach | Pros & Cons

    Pros
    • Curated selection of high-end designer pieces
    • High-quality materials like Italian leather and performance fabrics
    • Variety of customization options including modular sectionals
    • White-glove delivery for a seamless experience
    • In-home design services offered
    • Partnership with Affirm for financing
    Cons
    • Expensive price point
    • Limited 30-day return window
    • High return shipping fees and potential restocking fee
    • Limited information on frame construction and cushion details
    • Varying manufacturing origins with potential for inconsistent quality control

    Design Within Reach (DWR) is a sanctuary for design aficionados, offering a meticulously curated collection of high-end designer sofas that could make even the most discerning critic swoon.

    Their commitment to quality is undeniable, with premium materials like buttery-soft Italian leather and durable performance fabrics, coupled with a seamless white-glove delivery experience.

    However, DWR's allure comes with a price tag that might give some pause. Their sofas are an investment, averaging between $4,000-$8,000, and the 30-day return window could feel a bit tight for such a significant purchase. The potential for hefty return shipping fees and restocking charges further amplifies the financial commitment. And while they boast about their quality craftsmanship, specifics about frame construction and cushion details are surprisingly elusive.

    Ultimately, DWR is a haven for those who prioritize design and impeccable service and are willing to pay for it. If you're seeking a statement piece that embodies timeless elegance, DWR could be your holy grail. But for budget-minded shoppers or those who crave transparency in every detail, it might be wise to explore other avenues before diving into the world of DWR.

    Shop Design Within Reach Now

    And the winner is...

    In this clash of couch titans, La-Z-Boy steals the show with its emphasis on durability, customization options, and American craftsmanship. With a blend of comfort and style, La-Z-Boy clinches the title, offering a versatile and high-quality seating experience that outshines its competitors.

    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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