Couch Comparisons

Outer vs BenchMade Modern: Who Has Better Couches?

Looking for the perfect sofa for your space? Are you Team Outer or Team BenchMade Modern? Let's find out which brand delivers the ultimate comfort and style!
Alex Back | Couch.com CEO & Founder
Outer vs BenchMade Modern

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    Let's step into the ring for a sofa face-off like no other, where Outer and BenchMade Modern battle it out to earn a spot in your living space. Get comfy and prepare to witness these heavyweight brands go head-to-head.

    Side By Side

    Features
    Outer
    BenchMade Modern
    Made to Order Lead Times 8-10 weeks 2-6 weeks
    Free Shipping Option
    White Glove Delivery Option $275-$475 $399
    Return Option
    Warranty Included
    Financing Option Affirm Affirm
    Assembly Required
    Large Fabric Selection
    Free Swatches Available
    Manufacturing Origin China USA
    Avg. 3-Seat Couch Price $$$$ $$$$

    When comparing Outer and BenchMade Modern across key areas like style, durability, sustainability, and overall value, it becomes apparent that Outer excels in design and sustainability, appealing to luxury buyers. On the other hand, BenchMade Modern stands out in customization and affordability, making it a strong mid-range option. While Outer offers a high-end, stylish experience fused with eco-friendly practices, BenchMade Modern focuses on diverse customization for a personalized touch in a more budget-friendly range.


    BRAND #1: Outer

    A geometric logo with blue intersecting lines forming an abstract pattern is centered above the word "outer" in bold blue lowercase letters, all set against a white background.

    Outer is a California-based brand that's revolutionizing the outdoor furniture industry with its innovative designs and commitment to sustainability. Founded by former Casper executive Jiake Liu, Outer is known for its unique Neighborhood Showroom program, which allows customers to experience their furniture in real-life settings. Their commitment to using recycled materials and responsible sourcing practices sets them apart from competitors. Outer's sofas are not just furniture; they're a statement of style, sustainability, and community engagement.

    Outer | Brand Summary

    Exploring the world of Outer's outdoor furniture, I'm struck by the brand's unwavering dedication to creating pieces as durable as they are stylish. Integrating innovative features like the OuterShell cover system exemplifies their commitment to product longevity and user convenience. Amazingly, Outer manages to blend form with function seamlessly, offering a range that appeals to the discerning customer looking for that perfect mix of aesthetic appeal and practicality. Their focus on sustainability further enhances their brand appeal, positioning Outer as a leader in the outdoor furniture market, deeply attuned to the desires and concerns of today's consumers.

    Outer | PotatoMeter Rating:

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

    Outer | Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • Innovative designs with integrated OuterShell cover system
    • High-quality, durable materials (OuterWeave™, Grade A teak, powder-coated aluminum)
    • Exceptional 10-year warranty on teak and aluminum frames
    • 365-day return policy
    • Free shipping for specific items ordered with larger purchases
    • Commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices

    Cons

    • Relatively expensive
    • 20% restocking fee for returns (plus return shipping cost)
    • Limited customization options beyond fabric and configuration
    • Some negative customer reviews regarding customer service and delivery
    • No expedited shipping option

    Outer is a brand that excels in creating stylish and durable outdoor furniture, particularly their innovative sofas with the unique OuterShell cover system. However, their premium price point and limited customization options might not suit every budget or taste.

    While the generous warranties and lengthy return policy provide peace of mind, the 20% restocking fee for returns could be a deterrent. Additionally, some customers have reported issues with customer service and delivery, which could impact the overall experience.

    If you prioritize quality, durability, and sustainable practices, and are willing to invest in premium outdoor furniture, Outer is a compelling option. But if you're looking for a more budget-friendly choice with extensive customization options, you might want to explore other brands.

    Shop Outer Now

    BRAND #2: BenchMade Modern

    The image displays the logo of "Benchmade Modern," featuring the company name in a clean, sans-serif font. "BENCHMADE" is written in larger letters, while "MODERN" is written below it in smaller letters, all in black against a white background.

    BenchMade Modern is a brand that prides itself on challenging the norms of the luxury furniture industry. They offer custom-made sofas with surprisingly fast lead times, manufactured in the USA. Their unique selling point is their customization process, which allows you to tailor your sofa to your exact preferences, from the fabric to the leg color and even the depth. While their prices lean towards the luxury end of the spectrum, their lifetime warranty on frames and generous return policy offer peace of mind. With quirky sofa names and a focus on customer satisfaction, BenchMade Modern caters to a new generation of design enthusiasts who value individuality and convenience.

    BenchMade Modern | Brand Summary

    BenchMade Modern is a cool brand with a laid-back energy. BenchMade Modern's offerings include some industry-dominating lead times for custom couches (which are made right here in the USA!). Plus they have lifetime warranties on their frames and a seriously generous 100-day return window.

    BenchMade Modern | PotatoMeter Rating

    Online Shopping Experience Score 89%
    Durability and Quality Score 93%
    Shipping and Lead Time Score 94%
    Vibe Check Score 88%
    Customer Focus Score 92%
    Overall PotatoMeter Rating 96%
    Read Our BenchMade Modern Brand Review

    BenchMade Modern | Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • Fast lead times for custom-made sofas (2-6 weeks)
    • Lifetime warranty on frames
    • 10-year warranty on sleeper mechanisms
    • Generous 100-day return window with free return shipping
    • High-quality fabrics (30,000 to 100,000 double rub counts)
    • Offer full-grain and top-grain leather options
    • Wide range of customization options (size, fabric, leg color, depth)

    Cons

    • Expensive compared to similar quality sofas from other brands
    • Use of plywood in some frames
    • Limited cushion options (foam and fiber or foam and trillium)
    • Minimal sustainability initiatives beyond manufacturing in the USA

    BenchMade Modern, the self-proclaimed "rebellious luxury" brand, offers a tempting proposition: custom-made sofas with quick turnaround times, backed by a generous warranty and return policy. However, the allure fades slightly when you consider their premium price point, which doesn't always align with the materials and construction quality.

    While their high-quality fabrics and leather options are a definite plus, the use of plywood in some frames and stapled joints might leave discerning buyers wanting more. Additionally, their online customization process could use some streamlining to avoid potential confusion.

    However, if you're drawn to their unique designs and prioritize fast delivery and a hassle-free return policy, BenchMade furniture might just be your perfect match. Just be prepared to pay a premium for the privilege of owning one of their "rebellious" creations.

    Shop BenchMade Modern Now

    And the winner is...

    In this sofa showdown, Outer takes the crown for its unmatched blend of style, durability, and sustainability, making it the top pick for buyers seeking a luxurious yet eco-friendly seating solution. The brand's commitment to quality and design excellence sets it apart as the ultimate choice for sophisticated furniture enthusiasts.

    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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