We test and score sofas using a battery of 5 data-driven tests. Our tests are a mix of objective testing and subjective assessment. This testing process applies to sofas, sectionals, futons, and other sofa-like furniture.
Our 5 testing and scoring categories include:
In addition, we also test the following non-scoring categories.
- Size & Options
Performance Test
Scoring Weight – 40%
Our performance score is based on a combination of 2 factors. The 2 factors are weighted equally.
The 2 factors include:
- Comfort – 50%
- Support – 50%
Comfort
Scoring Weight – 50%
Our comfort test is a subjective test. We sit on the sofa in various positions examining the overall comfort of the sofa keeping in mind 3 factors:
- Bounce
- Sinkage
- Pressure Relief
We take into consideration the material construction of the sofa in relation to the comfort of the sofa.
Support
Score Weight – 50%
Our support test is a subjective test. We sit on the sofa in various positions examining the overall support of the sofa, keeping in mind the overall firmness of the cushions.
We take into consideration the firmness, material construction, and frame of the sofa in relation to overall support.
Design Test
Score Weight – 10%
Our design test is a subjective test. We assess the various pieces of the sofa and consider the overall design of the furniture.
We consider:
- Legs
- Base
- Seat
- Arms
- Back
- Pillows
- Ottoman
- Other applicable pieces
Quality Test
Score Weight – 25%
Our quality test is a subjective test. We examine and assess the major material and design components of the sofa, rating the build quality of each element.
Specifically, we are looking for build and design issues that are more likely to break and/or be difficult to use.
Assembly Test
Score Weight – 15%
Our assembly test is a combination of an objective test and a subjective test.
The objective factor is setup time. We use a stopwatch to time the entire assembly process from box to finished sofa. The shorter the assembly time, the better the score.
The subjective factor is setup difficulty. During the assembly process, we assess any difficulties we had or pain points we experienced. Sofas that are simpler to assemble receive a better score.
Shipping & Returns
Score Weight – 10%
Our shipping and return test is an objective test. It is based on a combination of two factors:
- Shipping Costs
- Return Costs
In both cases, the cheaper the cost, the better the score.
Size & Options Tests
Score Weight – 0%
Our size test is a report of overall size, weight, and other specific dimensions of the sofa. In addition, we discuss other options available of that sofa, including colors, number of seats, and other features.
This is not a scoring factor.