The Best Affordable Couches Under $500 From Amazon, Wayfair, and More
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Shopping for the best comfortable sofa is a lot easier said than done. There are so many styles, brands, and price points all across the internet, it can be difficult to know where to start your spree — but that's where we come in. We're here to help you find the best budget sectionals and affordable couches that money can buy, but first, you have to hone in on the things you want most from a sofa.
If price is your biggest concern, something price-friendly is a must. And to help you get started, we tapped design expert Gil Walsh, of GW Interiors, to make it simple. With over 30 years of design experience in both residential and commercial projects, Walsh understands that choosing the right sofa goes beyond aesthetics. With Walsh's tips in mind, we shopped and found everything from lounge-worthy sectionals to more chic choices that are bound to make a statement. The best part: these couches are under $500, so you can upgrade your home without breaking your budget.
What to Look For When Buying an Affordable Couch
Now that you know you're looking for affordable couches, it's time to think about comfort. "Comfort is all in the weave of the fabric," says Walsh. Soft, textured, and plush fabrics are the materials she recommends keeping an eye on, along with performance fabrics for those with pets and kids. This brings us to quality. Of course, it can be difficult finding a durable and cheap comfy sofa, but Walsh never skimps on a solid wood frame. "A hardwood frame allows the sofa to retain its shape and stability over a long period of time," says Walsh.
Lastly, don't forget to measure your space, so you know exactly what type of silhouette will fit. Maybe you can squeeze in a sleeper sofa, or you might need a smaller option like a loveseat. Now that you've thought about all the musts, keep reading to shop our picks for the best affordable sofas under $500. These budget-friendly couches come from top brands like Amazon, Wayfair, and Walmart, among many others.
Experts Featured in This Article
Gil Walsh, design expert from GW Interiors
Best Affordable Sofa Bed
Novogratz Brittany Sofa Futon ($206, originally $310)
If you're in the market for a futon that's actually stylish, behold this bestseller from Amazon. The easy fold-out design is great for having guests stay over. Plus, the affordable sofa's midcentury-modern look is chic and will add a stylish flair to any space. It comes in a handful of colors, so you can easily choose your favorite. The budget-friendly couch can also be delivered right to your doorstep, and there's minimal setup required.
What we love:
- This modern futon is the perfect way to get a sofa that also offers extra sleeping space.
- Made with a sturdy wood frame, this sofa is built to last.
Who it's best for:
- This couch is great for someone who wants a stylish couch that can double as a bed.
- The design comes in a multitude of color choices, so you can pick the right shade for your space.
Who should avoid it:
- If you're not looking for a futon silhouette, we suggest shopping for more traditional three-seater options.
The Details: Width: 85.1" | Height: 31.5" | Depth: 34.5" | Upholstery: Polyester | Color Options: 10+
Best Affordable Futon Sofa
Room & Joy Eve Velvet Upholstered Convertible Futon ($218)
This futon sofa has a handful of rave reviews on Target's website — and for good reason. The affordable couch is crafted from a premium velvet material that's said to be as durable as it is polished-looking. We'd argue that this is one of the best couches from Target because of its simple appeal, practical futon capabilities, and convertible design.
What we love:
- The retailer touts that this futon sofa requires minimal assembly, despite its solid frame.
- It also delivers quickly, so you can have it within a week of placing your order.
Who it's best for:
- This couch is great for someone who wants a contemporary faux-leather sofa that's equal parts comfortable and timeless looking, ensuring you'll be able to keep it as a centerpiece in your home for many years to come.
Who should avoid it:
- The model has a more modern aesthetic and might not work for spaces that are traditional or lean more farmhouse.
- If you're not into the velvet look, but love the design and silhouette, this sofa comes in a variety of other upholstery options, too.
The Details: Width: 82.3" | Height: 36" | Depth: 32" | Upholstery: Faux Leather/velvet | Color Options: 2
Best Affordable Sectional With Reversible Chaise
Shintenchi Convertible Sectional Couch ($260, originally $320)
We love a choice with a unique feature, and this small sectional sofa delivers just that. The chaise lounge is convertible to either side, so whether you move or switch your room around, it'll always work. The L shape is great for kicking back and relaxing on, too. You can even fit this budget-friendly couch into a corner space in a smaller room. The affordable sectional arrives in two boxes and is easy to set up, per reviewers.
What we love:
- Not only is it a sectional that's good for lounging, but it's also versatile.
- The model can be delivered quickly, with delivery within one to two days of your order.
Who it's best for:
- This couch is great for someone who has a small space but also wants a sectional that can offer plenty of seating.
- The L-shape model makes it easy to fit in corner spaces, too.
Who should avoid it:
- This sectional is on the smaller side, so if you want an option with a lot of seating room, try another size.
The Details: Width: 77.5" | Height: 35.43" | Depth: 50" | Upholstery: Fabric | Color Options: 4
Best Affordable Velvet Couch
Mercer41 Hessville Velvet Round Arm Loveseat ($260, originally $290)
Small-space living is all about finding the right furniture to make the most of your space. A mini couch can offer the seating space you need without taking up too much room. We adore the classic coloring of this bestselling couch from Wayfair. The affordable sofa comes in so many other fun colors, so even if the beige isn't your shade of choice, you can get the right colorway for your space.
What we love:
- This sofa is short in length but big in style and offers just the right amount of small-space seating.
- Built with a strong spring system, this couch is bound to support you in all the right ways.
Who it's best for:
- This couch is great for someone who lives in a small apartment and needs a space-saving shape.
- The velvet shade comes in various colors, making it a great option for someone who wants something vibrant.
Who should avoid it:
- If you're worried about stains, try another (more durable) fabric than velvet.
The Details: Width: 56.3" | Height: 33.1" | Depth: 31.1" | Upholstery: Faux Velvet | Color Options: 12
Best Affordable Statement Sofa
Esteves Square Arm Sofa ($270, originally $297)
In the market for a long-lasting option? Then go for this polyester couch from Wayfair. The best part about this budget-friendly sofa is that the back folds down and it turns into a futon, so you don't even need a guest bed. It comes with tools and is easy to assemble, so you can put it together the moment it's delivered.
What we love:
- This tufted piece will make a statement in any room, all while offering a comfortable place to sit and sleep.
- It can be delivered quickly.
Who it's best for:
- This couch is great for someone who wants a timeless and modest look that will stand out in their space.
- The futon design also makes it great as an extra sleeping space, if you don't have a guest room.
Who should avoid it:
- If you're looking for a futon that's more fashionable or unique, then try something that has a bit more color.
The Details: Width: 77.75" | Height: 36.5" | Depth: 23.25" | Upholstery: Faux-Velvet and Polyester | Color Options: 1
Best Affordable Sectional That's Cloud-Like
Honbay Convertible Sectional Sofa Couch ($320)
If you're looking for something that's both affordable and functional, then you can't go wrong with this stylish sectional. It's one of Amazon's bestselling sofas, and currently has over 9,000 rave reviews, plus a 4.1 rating. The L-shape design fits into many spaces, and the chaise is also reversible, making it easy to move around. The affordable couch comes in five versatile shades that are perfect for any design aesthetic. There are no tools needed for assembly, making it an easy choice, too.
What we love:
- This Amazon bestseller is comfortable and even has a handy reversible chaise lounge.
Who it's best for:
- This couch is best for someone who wants a cozy sectional that's great for lounging.
- The movable chaise lounge makes it easy to transfer from space to space, so it fits into any room.
Who should avoid it:
- If you're looking for a more cloud-like silhouette, go for an option with plusher cushions.
The Details: Width: 78.5" | Height: 35" | Depth: 52.4" | Upholstery: Polyester | Color Options: 5
Best Affordable Modern Sleeper Sofa
Mopio Chloe Futon Convertible Sleeper Sofa ($319, originally $428)
Looking for a stylish sleeper sofa that won't break the bank? The Mopio Chloe Futon Convertible Sleeper Sofa is perfect for those who live in smaller spaces and need guest accommodations. This is one of the best sofas under $500 because it will fit right in with any midcentury-modern aesthetic, especially with its chevron-stitched detailing, which adds a luxe flair and fun texture.
What we love:
- This sofa has a split back rest, so you can adjust each one to your liking, whether it's for sitting upright, reclining, or sleeping.
- The tapered legs of this sofa offer enough clearance to clean underneath.
- For those who want to make their living room stand out, it comes in a variety of bright and bold colors.
Who it's best for:
- If you're looking for a modern sofa that doesn't look like a sleeper, this is the perfect choice.
- Putting this sofa together is pretty easy and seamless; it requires just a few screws and attaching the legs, so the assembly is manageable.
Who should avoid it:
- This sofa is only designed to seat three people, so if you're looking for something that seats more, you might be better off with a sectional.
The Details: Width: 77.5" | Height: 33" | Depth: 28.3" | Upholstery: Velvet | Color Options: 10
Best Stylish Affordable Sofa
Ajabest Chenille L-Shaped Modular Sofa ($398)
We can never refuse a classic design, and this modular sofa is one that'll always be in style. The budget sofa's neutral shade and durable fabric will go perfectly in your space. The wood legs give it a cool midcentury-modern feel that we love. Plus, the couch is under $500 and easy to put together. According to reviewers, this is one of the best Amazon couches that money can buy.
What we love:
- It has a classic and minimal look that'll blend into any space.
- It's able to be delivered quickly.
- The couch boasts a solid wood frame, which is a detail Walsh recommends.
Who it's best for:
- This couch is great for someone who wants a cozy piece without breaking the bank.
- The midcentury-modern design is great for those who love that style as well.
Who should avoid it:
- If you want something with a little more style, then try a more colorful option.
The Details: Width: 83" | Height: 34.2" | Depth: 54.3" | Upholstery: Linenette | Color Options: 1
Best Affordable Loveseat
Willa Arlow Interiors Murrow Upholstered Loveseat ($350, originally $899)
A loveseat is a great investment for a small space or for small rooms that need extra seating. We love the stylish look of this affordable couch from Wayfair. Its velvet texture and gold legs will add instant style to any space. Best of all, the model can be delivered straight to your doorstep and is easy to set up.
What we love:
- This small loveseat adds extra seating space and a little bit of glamour to any space.
- This loveseat's frame is made of a mix of solid and manufactured wood, which is great for its price.
Who it's best for:
- This couch is great for someone who wants an extra seating area either in their hallway or living room.
- The small design would also be great as an accent piece in a bedroom or dressing area.
Who should avoid it:
- If you're looking for a larger couch option, try something other than a loveseat.
The Details: Width: 50.6" | Height: 28.9" | Depth: 27.1" | Upholstery: Velvet | Color Options: 10
—Additional reporting by Anvita Reddy and Krista Jones
Kyley Warren is an award-winning writer, editor, and affiliate strategist with more than four years of experience in the publishing space. She currently works as an assistant editor on PS Shopping and is an expert on all things related to shopping and fashion. She previously worked with Entertainment Tonight as a style commerce writer, and her byline has appeared in publications globally.
Anvita Reddy is an assistant editor for PS Shopping. She has a passion for products and is an avid reviewer of everything including home gadgets, cookware, tech, and more. Having dealt with acne as a teenager and into adulthood, her expertise lies in beauty. She has tried and tested plenty of skin-care, makeup, hair-care, and countless other beauty products.
Krista Jones is a former editor of commerce at PS.