Couch Comparisons

World Market vs Hem: Who Has Better Couches?

Who will conquer the couch kingdom: World Market or Hem? Journey with us as we explore which brand offers the perfect combination of trendsetting design and unbeatable comfort!
Alex Back | Couch.com CEO & Founder
World Market vs Hem

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    Ready to upgrade your living room game with a show-stopping couch? Join us as we unravel the couch conundrum between World Market and Hem. Grab a seat and prepare to discover which brand offers the ultimate blend of style and substance!

    Side By Side

    Features
    World Market
    Hem
    Made to Order Lead Times N/A 1-7 Weeks
    Free Shipping Option
    White Glove Delivery Option $299
    Return Option
    Warranty Included
    Financing Option World Market Credit Card Affirm
    Assembly Required Varies Varies
    Large Fabric Selection
    Free Swatches Available
    Manufacturing Origin Import Europe
    Avg. 3-Seat Couch Price $$ $$$$

    In the style department, Hem shines with its modern Scandinavian designs, placing it in the premium category. World Market, known for its diverse range of styles and budget-friendly prices, falls under the mid-range. When it comes to sustainability, Hem's focus sets it apart, while World Market appeals to a broader audience. In terms of durability and overall value, Hem's premium materials and craftsmanship offer long-term benefits, making it an attractive choice for quality-conscious buyers.


    BRAND #1: World Market

    Cost Plus World Market logo with text reading 'Unique, authentic and always affordable.'.

    World Market, a global marketplace with roots in imported wicker furniture, has evolved into a haven for those seeking unique and affordable home décor. Their eclectic collection reflects their passion for cultural diversity and worldly aesthetics. While they might not be known for their top-tier sofa craftsmanship, their commitment to affordability and offering a wide range of styles makes them a go-to destination for those seeking a touch of global flair in their living spaces.

    World Market | Brand Summary

    World Market, the place you hit up for funky throw pillows and globally-inspired knick-knacks, might not be the first spot that comes to mind when you're on the hunt for a new sofa. But hold your horses, because their couch game is surprisingly strong.

    They've got a wild variety of styles, from sleek mid-century modern couch numbers to boho-chic loveseat beauties that'll make your living room sing. Sure, they're not exactly competing with the fancy-pants bespoke brands, but their sofas don't skimp on style or affordability. If you're looking for a trendy couch that won't break the bank, World Market is absolutely worth a peek. Trust me, I've spent hours geeking out over their collection, and I'm impressed.

    World Market | PotatoMeter Rating:

    Online Shopping Experience Score 94%
    Durability and Quality Score 93%
    Shipping and Lead Time Score 91%
    Vibe Check Score 89%
    Customer Focus Score 92%
    Overall PotatoMeter Rating 92%
    Read Our World Market Brand Review

    World Market | Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • Wide variety of styles
    • Affordable prices
    • Fast shipping for in-stock items
    • 60-day return window
    • Free swatches
    • Some performance fabrics available

    Cons

    • Inconsistent quality across brands
    • Limited customization options
    • Returns can be a hassle and incur fees
    • Some fabrics may lack durability
    • Lack of transparency regarding some materials and construction methods

    World Market's got your back if you're hunting for a stylish sofa that won't break the bank. Their eclectic collection offers something for every taste, from sleek mid-century modern to bohemian chic, and their prices are refreshingly affordable. Plus, their speedy shipping for in-stock items and generous 60-day return window mean you can get your hands on that new couch without the usual furniture-buying anxiety.

    But hey, even the best-dressed couch has its flaws. While World Market's got the style department covered, the quality of their sofas can be a bit of a mixed bag. Some fabrics might be less durable than others, and not all pieces are made with the most high-end materials. And while their return policy is decent, those return fees can add up.

    Overall, World Market is a solid choice for budget-minded shoppers who prioritize style and convenience. Just be sure to do your homework and choose a fabric and style that'll stand up to your lifestyle.

    Shop World Market Now

    BRAND #2: 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

    And the winner is...

    In the battle of the couch titans, Hem emerges victorious over World Market. Hem's modern Scandinavian designs, premium materials, and strong emphasis on sustainability make it the top pick for those seeking both style and substance in a couch. With Hem's commitment to quality and eco-conscious practices, it's the winning choice for discerning furniture shoppers.

    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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