A sofa is often the centerpiece of a living space, and as such, can often represent a steep investment. After purchasing a new one-bedroom apartment in Brighton, U.K., Sam Cooper says he “furnished it on a shoestring budget.” His primary criteria for “the one” included comfort, style, durability and fit for the dimensions of his new set-up. No matter why you’re on a budget—furnishing a second home, a starter apartment, or a college dorm—thanks to a host of affordable sofa options, it’s easy to find what you’re looking for. Here are some of our top picks, all under $450.
The Best Cheap Sofas: At a Glance
OVIOS Mid-Century Top-Grain Suede Leather Deep Seat Sofa with Cushions Wood Legs
What the Experts Say
Interior designer Grey Joyner, owner of her eponymous interior design studio in Wilson, North Carolina, is known for her color-infused designs, both on residential and commercial projects. “When shopping online, always click through all of the images that are available to see the sofa from every angle,” Joyner says. If you’re buying online, leverage the reviews on the product you’re considering. “It’s always good to see what other people say about the item,” she adds. Pay special attention to the fabric or material. “Performance fabric” will help with the wear over time.
Perdue 81.5″ Velvet Square Arm Convertible Sleeper
This velvet sofa is elegant with a tufted back, tapered wooden legs, and slim, square arms. It will look great in living spaces that range in style from transitional to contemporary to more traditional. When you have overnight guests, it seamlessly morphs into a comfortable bed. Just add a blanket!
Outopee Wide Square Arm Chenille Mid-Century Sofa
This cozy, 83-inch wide, L-shaped sofa can provide seating for up to four people, making it perfect for a party, game night or gathering for cocktails at home. You’ll want to settle into the plush, yet firm, seat and seat back, covered in soft chenille fabric. The mid-century sectional is reversible with the chaise portion on the right or left, so you can customize it to your space.
Loon Peak Wide Outdoor Patio Daybed with Cushions
This sofa makes it easy to entertain al fresco. The teak daybed-style sofa is clad in water-resistant cushions (available in dark teal, bright green and gray). Whether you use it to lounge and soak up the sun or post up for cocktail hour, it creates a lot more comfort than outdoor vinyl chairs ever do.
Corrigan Studio Wide Linen Tufted Back Convertible Sofa
This sleek futon is an ideal blend of good looks and functionality. You’ll see hints of 1950s classic style, with a wood frame, tapered wooden legs and linen upholstery over high-density foam that holds its shape. The square-armed sofa measures 85.4 inches wide and can easily be made up to sleep on too at that length.
OVIOS Mid-Century Top-Grain Suede Leather Deep Seat Sofa with Cushions Wood Legs
This mid-century-inspired sofa exudes masculine style and would be perfect for a man cave, casual den or bar room. The sturdy frame is covered with top-grain suede, available in camel or brown, with rolled side cushions, a smooth back and tufted seat bottom.
Aadvik Upholstered Sofa and Ottoman
This low-profile sofa and ottoman set could be the only piece of seating furniture you need for a small living room or den. The 77.5-inch solid wood frame is covered in cotton-linen in your choice of dark or light gray, dark khaki, or coffee color ways. The spring-supported sofa seats three people comfortably, and the ottoman can be added on either side to create a comfortable chaise. Or, use the ottoman separately for extra seating. The cushions are removable for easy cleaning, making this a perfect low-maintenance choice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheap Sofas
Is a sofa this cheap even worth it?
It depends on the needs of the user. Sometimes you need a heap one that will be put outside to brace the elements anyway. Sometimes its a pretty-looking but mildly-inconvenient piece of furniture to round out a room. Cheap sofas aren’t always just for the penny-pinchers, but can be suited for scenarios where they’ll be underused.
How can I balance out a cheap sofa?
Accessorize it! Load that thing up with throw blankets, bolsters, throw pillows, anything you got. Or, better yet, get your most creative friend to paint directly onto the fabric. Now you don’t have a sofa under $450, you have a $450 one-of-a-kind artwork.