Seeking the ideal couch for your relaxation needs? Join us as we unravel the battle between DreamSofa and Outer. Who will claim the throne as the top couch brand? Let's find out!
Alex Back | Couch CEO & Founder
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Curious about which couch brand will elevate your living space? Today, we're pitting DreamSofa against Outer in a battle of comfort, style, and durability. Get set to explore who comes out on top in this furniture face-off!
Side By Side
Features
DreamSofa
Outer
Made to Order Lead Times
3-5 Weeks
8-10 weeks
Free Shipping Option
White Glove Delivery Option
$149
$275-$475
Return Option
Warranty Included
Financing Option
Affirm
Affirm
Assembly Required
Large Fabric Selection
Free Swatches Available
Manufacturing Origin
USA
China
Avg. 3-Seat Couch Price
$$-$$$
$$$$
In the quest for the perfect couch, DreamSofa and Outer bring unique offerings to the table. DreamSofa shines with a diverse range of styles and customization options, ideal for those seeking a personalized touch. Meanwhile, Outer takes the crown in durability and sustainability, utilizing premium materials like OuterWeave™ and Grade A teak. With a focus on customer satisfaction, Outer offers a generous 365-day return policy and a 10-year warranty on certain materials. While DreamSofa caters to mid-range budgets, Outer positions itself as a premium choice for those valuing style, sustainability, and lasting quality in their furniture.
BRAND #1: DreamSofa
Founded by a team of Southern California craftsmen, DreamSofa is a made-to-order furniture brand redefining what customization can mean—without the designer price tag. Built in Los Angeles, their sofas are designed to the inch, with over 100 upholstery options and modular flexibility built right in. Their in-house manufacturing model ensures precision, quick turnarounds, and consistent quality, backed by a limited lifetime frame warranty and 100-day satisfaction guarantee on standard designs. With standout tools like their DreamVision™ AR Studio, DreamSofa has carved out a niche for shoppers who want complete control, reliable craftsmanship, and honest pricing—without the long wait.
DreamSofa | Brand Summary
DreamSofa might be one of the best-kept secrets in the custom sofa space. The brand is certainly not a household name. But no complaints here on that front! We llike more boutique brands that actually pay attention.
Their couches feel like they were designed by someone who gets it: life is messy, comfort matters, and your sofa should reflect your style—not a catalog’s. DreamSofa couches really shine when it comes to customization, fabric range, and modular flexibility.
You’re not boxed into a one-size-fits-all solution here. Instead, you get to design basically down to the inch. Their attention to detail, from comfort to customer service, makes them a real standout in the mid-luxury space.
Customizable to the inch for size, fill, and upholstery
Fast 3–5 week lead time for made-to-order couches
Built in the USA with kiln-dried hardwood and CertiPUR-certified foam
Free fabric swatches
Excellent Trustpilot rating and responsive customer support
Cons
Custom orders are final sale and non-returnable
Return shipping and 15% restocking fee apply to standard returns
No international shipping or service outside the contiguous U.S.
DreamSofa is one of those brands that manages to do something rare in the furniture space: they give you both control and quality. Whether you're shopping for a sectional sleeper or a snug loveseat, you're not picking from a dusty template. You're designing your dream couch, right down to the inch.
That said, true customization comes with tradeoffs. If you tweak the size or request special features, the return policy becomes final sale. It's a fair industry norm, but it does limit flexibility for buyers who want a little wiggle room. And while standard delivery is free, White Glove setup costs $149. If you’ve got more than two flights of stairs, there’s an extra charge for that, too.
Still, there’s a lot to love here. DreamSofa delivers fast. For a made-to-order brand, their 3 to 5 week timeline beats most competitors. Everything is built in Los Angeles, not overseas, which helps speed things up without sacrificing quality. The DreamVision™ 3D Configurator and AR Studio let you preview how each piece might look and fit in your space—something more brands should offer.
If you’ve ever dreamed of building a custom sofa from scratch without waiting three months or blowing your budget, DreamSofa might just be your new favorite find.
Outer is a California-based brand that's revolutionizing the outdoor furniture industry with its innovative designs and commitment to sustainability. Founded by former Casper executive Jiake Liu, Outer is known for its unique Neighborhood Showroom program, which allows customers to experience their furniture in real-life settings. Their commitment to using recycled materials and responsible sourcing practices sets them apart from competitors. Outer's sofas are not just furniture; they're a statement of style, sustainability, and community engagement.
Outer | Brand Summary
Exploring the world of Outer's outdoor furniture, I'm struck by the brand's unwavering dedication to creating pieces as durable as they are stylish. Integrating innovative features like the OuterShell cover system exemplifies their commitment to product longevity and user convenience. Amazingly, Outer manages to blend form with function seamlessly, offering a range that appeals to the discerning customer looking for that perfect mix of aesthetic appeal and practicality. Their focus on sustainability further enhances their brand appeal, positioning Outer as a leader in the outdoor furniture market, deeply attuned to the desires and concerns of today's consumers.
Innovative designs with integrated OuterShell cover system
High-quality, durable materials (OuterWeave™, Grade A teak, powder-coated aluminum)
Exceptional 10-year warranty on teak and aluminum frames
365-day return policy
Free shipping for specific items ordered with larger purchases
Commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices
Cons
Relatively expensive
20% restocking fee for returns (plus return shipping cost)
Limited customization options beyond fabric and configuration
Some negative customer reviews regarding customer service and delivery
No expedited shipping option
Outer is a brand that excels in creating stylish and durable outdoor furniture, particularly their innovative sofas with the unique OuterShell cover system. However, their premium price point and limited customization options might not suit every budget or taste.
While the generous warranties and lengthy return policy provide peace of mind, the 20% restocking fee for returns could be a deterrent. Additionally, some customers have reported issues with customer service and delivery, which could impact the overall experience.
If you prioritize quality, durability, and sustainable practices, and are willing to invest in premium outdoor furniture, Outer is a compelling option. But if you're looking for a more budget-friendly choice with extensive customization options, you might want to explore other brands.
In this showdown, Outer steals the spotlight as the ultimate couch brand, excelling in durability, sustainability, and customer-focused benefits. With innovative features and premium quality materials, Outer offers a luxurious seating experience that surpasses the competition.
Alex Back
Couch CEO & Founder
Alex Back is the founder and CEO of Couch. 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. 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.co audience informed and engaged on a daily basis.
