If you’re furnishing a small apartment, setting up a guest room, or making your Airbnb more comfortable for sleeping, you’ve probably wondered whether to choose a futon or a sofa bed. At first glance, they seem similar,but the experience they provide can be totally different. In this guide, we’ll tell you about the pros and cons of both and look deeper into peculiarities of each.We’ll find out who they are best suited for, and also which models are worth paying attention to.
What is a futon?
A traditional futon is a thin mattress that can be rolled up for storage. In our country, the futon has evolved into a simple sofa with a folding mattress on a frame, often made of metal or wood. The backrest folds down to form a sleeping space for one or two people.
Main reasons for choosing a futon
- Light and portable. Futons are easy to move around indoors, making them an ideal choice for rented accommodation or those who like to rearrange their furniture frequently.
- Budget. Futons are generally less expensive than sofa beds. You can find a decent futon for less than $300.
- Simple design. Futons typically have a minimalist design that goes well with modern interiors.
- Construction. The simple construction of futons allows them to be used for decades without significant damage.
But let’s be honest, futons are not designed for constant sleeping. They are more of an option for 2-3 nights for guests or friends, as thinner mattresses and simpler frames mean less cushioning while sleeping. However, modern futons have come a long way evolving into improved frames and denser foam. You can learn more about this in Apartment Therapy’s guide to futons.
Sofa beds
Sofa beds look like a regular sofa — soft seats, armrests, and all those things — but they also fold out into a bed with a hidden mattress inside the frame. They are ideal for a comfortable sleeping space for guests, but the construction is usually not as durable.
What are the advantages of sofa beds
- Comfort. Sofa beds often have thicker mattresses, and there are models with memory foam designed for regular sleep.
- Aesthetics.Sofa beds are available in many styles, and you can find a sofa bed to fit into any interior.
- Functionality. When folded, it looks like a regular sofa, maintaining the elegance and conciseness of your living space.
Of course, this type of furniture also has its disadvantages. Sofa beds are usually heavier and more expensive. The pull-out mechanism can be quite complicated to understand at first, and sometimes they are not particularly durable, especially in budget models. Of course, there are models such as the Nordby sofa bed from Article and the Burrow Nomad sofa bed that have gone beyond the ordinary, offering comfort, convenience, and reliability.
Popular futon models worth considering
If you tend to choose a futon, here are some attractive options:
Novogratz Brittany Futon
This model provides the necessary support that you need for hours of relaxation, with a sturdy frame and excellent appearance. It comes in a variety of trendy colors and offers a comfortable but firm mattress option. It’s a perfect choice if you want to add a pop of color to your space. You can find it on Wayfair.
DHP Emily Futon Sofa Bed
This sleek futon with a metal frame is ideal for small spaces. It’s perfect if you seek a simple design. It is lightweight and quickly converts from sofa to bed, making it a practical choice for renters or those who need flexibility. Available on Amazon.
The best sofa beds worth spending (or saving) on
If comfort and design are your top priorities, check out these options:
Nordby Sofa Bed
It has a minimalistic design,combines durable fabric with a high-quality memory foam mattress and is easy to unfold. An excellent choice for living rooms that are also used as guest bedrooms. Learn more here.
Burrow Nomad Sofa Bed
Burrow’s modular construction makes it a true marvel of modernity, allowing you to choose any size you need or even expand it in the future. Nomad features durable fabric, built-in USB ports, and comfortable mattresses.All these things are designed to fit perfectly into busy homes. Learn more at Burrow.
American Leather Comfort Sleeper
For those who love a good night’s sleep, American Leather Comfort Sleeper is a high-quality sofa with smooth mechanisms and soft mattresses (made in the USA). Their Comfort Sleeper line has some of the best reviews, praised for its durability and comfort. Learn more here.
Consumers opinion
Lots of the people we surveyed tend to choose sofa beds for comfort, especially if they often have guests. Many recommend sofa beds with sturdy pull-out systems rather than flimsy folding legs for better support and durability. Futons are popular for their portability and convenience, but are sometimes described as “too hard to sleep on” or “dorm-style.”
Alternative ideas, such as daybeds or Murphy beds, often offer stylish and compact solutions for those who live in small apartments.
How to choose what’s right for you
- Consider the space. Do you have limited space? Then Futon is a perfect option. But larger rooms can accommodate the weight and comfort of a sofa bed.
- Consider frequency of use. For rare guests, a futon is an ideal solution. If frequent use is required, then a sofa bed is more preferable.
- Consider the price factor.
Quick guide: What do you need to pay attention to when buying?
If you can’t decide between a sofa bed and a futon, or just want to make sure you’re buying something that won’t break your back (or your guests’), here are some tips to help you make a smarter purchase:
Sleeper Sofa Buyers, Pay Attention To:
Mattress Type
- Memory foam = best for comfort and durability
- Coil = springier feel, good airflow, but heavier
- Air-over-coil = more compact, but may lose firmness over time
✅ Pro tip: If it folds out in one smooth motion, you’re dealing with a well-designed sleeper.
Ease of Use
- Is it easy to pull out and put back?
- Can one person do it without breaking a sweat?
Maintenance
- Are cushion covers removable?
- Is the fabric spill-resistant or washable?
Futon Buyers, Don’t Skip These:
Frame Material
- Solid hardwood = sturdy and long-lasting
- Metal = usually cheaper, lighter, but noisier and colder
- Engineered wood/particleboard = budget-friendly, but often creaky and short-lived
Mattress Thickness
- Look for at least 6–8 inches of padding
- Memory foam or cotton/foam hybrid will offer better support than plain cotton
Back Support While Sitting
- Check if the futon has a properly angled backrest — some feel like you’re sitting on a bench
Cleaning & Covers
- Removable, machine-washable covers are a big plus
- Some futons allow for seasonal cover swaps — practical and fun
Still Can’t Decide?
- Need something compact and lightweight? → Go with a futon
- Want real bed-level comfort for guests? → Sleeper sofa is your friend
- Planning to use it daily for both sitting and sleeping? → Invest in a high-end sleeper or hybrid futon-sofa
