Big Lots’ sofa lineup tends to be comfort-first: oversized sectionals for sprawling, straightforward reclining options for TV rooms, and simpler three-seaters for tighter layouts. We spent time with four popular picks and scored them on comfort, support, seat-depth fit, cooling, durability feel, cleaning, assembly, layout practicality, and value.
There isn’t one best sofa for everyone. The right choice depends on how you sit most days—deep lounging, upright work, or nightly recline—and how much space you can realistically give the sofa.
Table of Contents
Product Overview: Scores and Best Fits
| Sofa | Overall Score | Pros | Cons | Ideal For |
| Broyhill Parkdale Silver Sectional | 4.3 | Deep lounge feel, strong corner seat, lots of sprawl space | Large footprint; depth can overwhelm shorter legs | Families, hosts, all-day loungers |
| Broyhill McRay Granite Sectional | 4.2 | Steadier support, more upright-friendly back feel | Less sink-in coziness; fabric can feel warm on long sessions | Mixed-use living rooms, gaming + work-from-couch |
| Broyhill Wellsley Leather Power Reclining Sofa | 4.4 | Power recline convenience, wipe-friendly surfaces, structured support | Needs power access; heavy to reposition | TV rooms, heavier users, nightly movie routines |
| Signature Design by Ashley Arlis Putty Sofa | 3.9 | Clean profile; comfortable for everyday sitting | Less deep-lounge support; lighter upholstery can show wear sooner | Apartments, dorm common rooms, style-first budgets |
Team Takeaways After Real Use
Parkdale was the sectional we kept drifting back to when the room turned into a lounge. It’s soft enough up top to relax, and the corner seat makes it easy to sprawl.
McRay was the better "do-everything" sectional. It held a more upright posture for laptop work and gaming, while still feeling comfortable when we shifted into a relaxed sit.
Wellsley was the easiest to settle into consistently. The power recline made lower-back comfort more repeatable during long TV nights, and cleanup felt low-drama.
Arlis fit small rooms best, but it scored lower because deep lounging and long-session support felt more limited compared with the larger options.
Big Lots Comparison Chart
| Sofa | Seat Depth | Seat Height | Overall Size | Configuration Options | Frame / Cushion Materials | Firmness Feel | Back Support Profile | Fabric / Cover Type | Cooling / Breathability | Durability Feel | Ease of Cleaning |
| Broyhill Parkdale Silver Sectional | - | - | 134"W x 86"D x 40"H | Dual chaise sectional | - | Medium-soft lounge | Lounge-leaning; a small lumbar pillow helps on long sits | Chenille-style upholstery | Average | Stable, “big frame” feel | Spot clean; texture can trap crumbs |
| Broyhill McRay Granite Sectional | - | - | - | Chaise sectional | - | Medium-firm supportive | More upright; steadier back feel | Textured polyester-style upholstery | Average to warm | Strong, less “sink” over time | Spot clean; texture hides everyday marks |
| Broyhill Wellsley Leather Power Reclining Sofa | - | - | - | Power recline ends | Top-grain leather seating; polyurethane exterior; coil/spring support noted | Medium-firm with cushioned back | Most structured lumbar feel of the group | Leather seating surfaces | Average | Most “mechanically solid” feel | Easy wipe-down; conditioning recommended |
| Signature Design by Ashley Arlis Putty Sofa | - | - | - | Standard sofa | - | Medium | Neutral; better for upright sitting than sprawling | Neutral upholstery | Average | Light-to-moderate | Moderate; lighter fabric needs faster spill response |
How We Tested It
We set each sofa up as the primary living-room seat and used it the way most people do: TV nights, laptop work blocks, gaming sessions, quick naps, and hosting. We tracked comfort, back support, and seat-depth fit across different heights—including whether we slid forward or started slouching over time.
We also noted heat buildup, how the cushions behaved after repeated use, how straightforward cleaning felt after real snacks and drinks, and how practical each layout was in a normal room. When setup or moving was a factor, we scored assembly and repositioning effort.
Big Lots Sofa: Our Testing Experience
Broyhill Parkdale Silver Sectional
Our Testing Experience
The first night it landed in the room, we kept gravitating to the corner seat. It’s soft on top without feeling wobbly underneath, and edge-perching still felt stable. For long, half-reclined sessions, a small lumbar pillow made the depth more comfortable.
What we liked
- The corner seat works as a real lounge spot
- Plush cushions that still feel supported
- The frame stays steady when you shift positions
Who it is best for
- Households that sprawl, nap, and host
- Taller users who like deeper seating
- Anyone building the room around a big sectional
Where it falls short
- Deep seat can leave shorter legs hanging without a footrest
- Large footprint can crowd walk paths
- Can run warm during long sessions
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Deep lounge comfort; strong corner seat; steady feel when you shift around | Oversized footprint; depth can be a lot for shorter users; average breathability |
Details
- Configuration: dual chaise sectional
- Overall dimensions: 134"W x 86"D x 40"H
- Cushion feel: medium-soft lounge
- Fabric type: chenille-style upholstery
- Cooling / breathability: average
- Support for different body sizes: best for average-to-taller loungers; shorter users may want a footrest
- Ease of cleaning: spot clean; texture hides minor marks but traps crumbs
- Durability: stable frame feel; rotate seating positions to balance wear
Review Score
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Seat Comfort | 4.5 | Plush top with a supportive base feel |
| Back Support | 4.0 | Comfortable, but better with a small lumbar pillow on long sits |
| Seat Depth Fit | 3.7 | Great for taller loungers; can overwhelm shorter legs |
| Cooling / Breathability | 3.8 | Fine for short sessions; warmer in longer marathons |
| Durability | 4.4 | Stays composed under shifting weight and repeated use |
| Ease of Movement / Repositioning | 4.2 | Manageable once placed, but not a light sectional |
| Assembly | 4.0 | Reasonable setup effort for a large sectional category |
| Cleaning | 3.8 | Spot-clean friendly, but texture holds crumbs |
| Value | 4.3 | A strong value if your room can handle the footprint |
| Overall Score | 4.3 | Best for deep lounging and hosting-heavy households |
Broyhill McRay Granite Sectional
Our Testing Experience
McRay felt like the sectional we could actually work on. The back angle stayed steadier, and we didn’t immediately start slouching during laptop sessions. On the chaise, it’s comfortable for stretching out, but the feel is more "supported" than "cloud."
What we liked
- Steadier support for upright sitting
- Cushions hold shape when you move around
- Better edge confidence than most lounge-first sectionals
Who it is best for
- People who work and game on the sofa
- Households that prefer medium-firm support
- Mixed-use living rooms that need one do-it-all sectional
Where it falls short
- Less plush than a lounge-first sectional
- Fabric can feel warm in longer sessions
- Not the most nap-forward option in this group
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Supportive sit; steadier back feel; strong fit for mixed-use rooms | Less plush; warmth can build over long sessions; fewer sink-in moments |
Details
- Configuration: chaise sectional
- Cushion feel: medium-firm
- Fabric type: textured polyester-style upholstery
- Cooling / breathability: average to warm
- Support for different body sizes: stable for heavier sitters; tall users benefit from chaise stretch
- Ease of cleaning: spot clean; texture helps disguise minor marks
- Durability: strong “holds shape” feel
Review Score
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Seat Comfort | 4.2 | Comfortable without getting overly soft |
| Back Support | 4.4 | Most upright-friendly sectional back feel in this set |
| Seat Depth Fit | 4.2 | More broadly accommodating than a super-deep lounge design |
| Cooling / Breathability | 3.7 | Fine, but long sessions can run warm |
| Durability | 4.5 | Best “holds its line” feel after repeated use |
| Ease of Movement / Repositioning | 4.0 | Manageable in sections, but still a sectional footprint |
| Assembly | 4.0 | Comparable to other Big Lots sectional setups |
| Cleaning | 4.0 | Texture helps; quick spot cleaning works well |
| Value | 4.1 | Strong for support-focused buyers |
| Overall Score | 4.2 | Best all-around sectional here for mixed use |
Broyhill Wellsley Leather Power Reclining Sofa
Our Testing Experience
Wellsley was the easiest to get comfortable on consistently. Once we dialed in the recline position, lower-back support felt more predictable than the fixed-seat sofas. It also held up well for heavier sitters, but it’s not something you casually drag around—plan placement and power access first.
What we liked
- Power recline makes it easy to repeat a comfortable position
- Leather seating surfaces wipe down quickly
- The most structured support feel in this group
Who it is best for
- TV-first households that recline nightly
- Heavier users who want steadier support
- Anyone who prefers wipe-down upholstery
Where it falls short
- Needs an outlet strategy and cord planning
- Heavy, not something you casually rearrange
- Breathability is typical in long sessions
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Power recline convenience; leather seating surfaces; easy wipe-down upkeep | Heavy; needs power access; breathability is only average in marathon sessions |
Details
- Price: $899.99
- Configuration: power reclining sofa
- Cushion feel: medium-firm seat with a cushioned back
- Cushion materials: memory-foam cushioning and coil/spring support noted
- Upholstery: top-grain leather on seating areas; polyurethane exterior noted
- Cooling / breathability: average
- Support for different body sizes: stable under heavier loads; recline helps leg comfort
- Ease of cleaning: wipe-down friendly; conditioning recommended
- Durability: strong mechanism feel; consistent recline motion
Review Score
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Seat Comfort | 4.6 | Most consistently comfortable once you find your recline setting |
| Back Support | 4.6 | Most structured lumbar feel in the group |
| Seat Depth Fit | 4.2 | Recline helps compensate for depth preferences |
| Cooling / Breathability | 4.0 | About average overall—less clingy than thick plush fabric, but not a cooling sofa |
| Durability | 4.6 | Best overall “built for nightly use” impression |
| Ease of Movement / Repositioning | 4.1 | Functional once placed; heavy to move |
| Assembly | 4.0 | Typical for a power reclining sofa category |
| Cleaning | 4.6 | Wipe-down simplicity is a real advantage |
| Value | 4.2 | Strong value if power recline is truly part of your routine |
| Overall Score | 4.4 | Best option here for nightly recline comfort and easier upkeep |
Signature Design by Ashley Arlis Putty Sofa
Our Testing Experience
Arlis was the easiest to fit into a smaller room. It supports a more upright sit, so typing and everyday sitting felt straightforward without sliding into a deep-lounge posture. It’s fine for a two-person movie night, but it doesn’t invite full-body sprawl unless you add an ottoman or you’re on the shorter side.
What we liked
- Clean profile that doesn’t crowd small rooms
- Naturally upright-sit friendly
- Easier for shorter legs to feel grounded
Who it is best for
- Apartments and smaller living rooms
- People who sit upright more than they sprawl
- Style-first budgets that still want a full sofa
Where it falls short
- Less rewarding for deep lounging than the sectionals
- Lighter upholstery needs more day-to-day care
- Tall users may want a deeper seat for naps
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Budget-friendly entry price; compact practicality; clean contemporary look | Limited sprawl space; lighter fabric can show wear; less ideal for tall loungers |
Details
- Price: $399.99
- Configuration: standard sofa
- Cushion feel: medium
- Fabric type: neutral upholstery
- Cooling / breathability: average
- Support for different body sizes: best for petite-to-average users; tall loungers may want a deeper seat
- Ease of cleaning: spot clean quickly; lighter upholstery shows spills sooner
- Durability: moderate; best for calmer households
Review Score
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Seat Comfort | 4.0 | Comfortable for daily sitting, less rewarding for long sprawl |
| Back Support | 3.9 | Neutral support; depends on your preferred posture |
| Seat Depth Fit | 4.2 | More accommodating for shorter legs than deeper sectionals |
| Cooling / Breathability | 3.8 | Typical upholstery warmth profile |
| Durability | 3.9 | Fine for normal use; not the “tank” of the group |
| Ease of Movement / Repositioning | 4.4 | Easiest of the four to fit and reposition in real rooms |
| Assembly | 4.2 | Lower complexity than large sectionals and power recliners |
| Cleaning | 3.8 | Requires faster response because lighter upholstery shows more |
| Value | 4.0 | Strong entry point if your priority is fit and simplicity |
| Overall Score | 3.9 | Best for smaller spaces and upright daily sitting |
Score Breakdown by Metric
| Sofa | Overall Score | Seat Comfort | Back Support | Seat Depth Fit | Cooling / Breathability | Durability | Ease of Movement / Repositioning |
| Broyhill Parkdale Silver Sectional | 4.3 | 4.5 | 4.0 | 3.7 | 3.8 | 4.4 | 4.2 |
| Broyhill McRay Granite Sectional | 4.2 | 4.2 | 4.4 | 4.2 | 3.7 | 4.5 | 4.0 |
| Broyhill Wellsley Leather Power Reclining Sofa | 4.4 | 4.6 | 4.6 | 4.2 | 4.0 | 4.6 | 4.1 |
| Signature Design by Ashley Arlis Putty Sofa | 3.9 | 4.0 | 3.9 | 4.2 | 3.8 | 3.9 | 4.4 |
If your routine is "recline nightly," Wellsley was the most consistently strong, especially for back support and durability feel. Parkdale wins on pure lounging space, but its depth penalizes shorter legs. McRay is the steadier pick for upright sitting and mixed use. Arlis is the practical choice when you need a smaller footprint and a more upright seat.
How to Choose the Big Lots Sofa?
Start with posture and space. If you lounge diagonally, nap often, or host, prioritize a deeper, roomier sectional (Parkdale). If you sit upright for long stretches—work, gaming, or watching without reclining—choose steadier support (McRay). If power recline is part of your nightly routine and you want easier cleanup, Wellsley fits that use case. If your room is tight, Arlis is the easiest to place and live with.
Quick matches
- Shorter users who hate deep seats: Arlis, or McRay over Parkdale
- Tall loungers who sprawl: Parkdale
- TV-first, nightly recliners: Wellsley
- Mixed-use living rooms: McRay
Where These Sofas Fall Short
These four picks lean casual and comfort-first rather than crisp, formal sitting. Deep sectionals can be tough on shorter legs without a footrest, and power recliners trade convenience for weight and outlet planning. Lighter upholstery looks fresh, but it shows wear sooner in busy homes. If you want very breathable fabric or a tight, minimalist silhouette, this group will feel more functional than refined.
Big Lots Vs. Alternatives
Why these Big Lots models work
- Strong comfort per dollar when the size fits your room
- Sectional options that are built for real lounging, not just sitting
- Power recline convenience without premium-brand pricing pressure
Alternatives worth comparing
- IKEA KIVIK sectional: predictable cushions and removable covers
- Article Sven sofa: a cleaner, design-forward look
- La-Z-Boy reclining sofa: a stronger fit if you want showroom help and service options
Pro Tips for Big Lots Sofa
- Measure your walk paths first; big sectionals can block the flow of the room.
- If you’re on the shorter side, plan on an ottoman or footrest for deep-seat sectionals.
- Rotate cushions and rotate where you sit; it helps even out wear.
- For reclining sofas, map power access and leave slack for recline motion.
- Keep a small lumbar pillow nearby; it upgrades long-session comfort fast.
- Vacuum seams weekly—chenille-like fabrics love crumbs and pet hair.
- Use a throw where your head rests to reduce oils and wear on upholstery.
- With lighter upholstery, keep a spot-clean kit nearby and act quickly on spills.
FAQs
Which Big Lots sofa is best for deep lounging?
Parkdale. The corner seat and sprawl space make it the most lounge-forward option.
Which one feels best for back support during long TV nights?
Wellsley. The power recline lets you repeat a comfortable position, and support stays more structured over long sessions.
I work on a laptop from the sofa. Which model fits that routine?
McRay. It holds a more upright posture and doesn’t collapse into a slouch as quickly.
Which is easiest for a small apartment?
Arlis. It’s easier to place, easier to move, and better for upright daily sitting.
Which is most forgiving for cleaning and daily mess?
Wellsley for simple wipe-downs; McRay if you want fabric that hides small day-to-day marks.
