Flexsteel builds sofas that prioritize a steady, supportive sit—whether you want a straightforward stationary frame or a power recliner with extra adjustability. Across the four models we tested, the common thread was consistent support and user-friendly seat geometry. The main trade-offs came down to space planning for motion styles, warmth during long reclined sessions, and how each seat depth fits different heights.
Table of Contents
Product Overview
| Sofa | Overall Score | Pros | Cons | Ideal For |
| Henry Power Reclining Sofa | 4.3 | Adjustable headrest/lumbar comfort; stays supportive on long sits | Large footprint; needs outlet access and wall clearance | Movie nights, frequent recliners, back-sensitive loungers |
| Digby Fabric Sofa | 4.2 | Compact width; upright-friendly support; easy cushion rotation | Less “sink-in” for naps; deep seat can feel long for petite users | Small rooms, laptop work, cleaner-lined styling |
| Thornton Fabric Sofa | 4.2 | Classic proportions; balanced cushioning; reversible cushions | Not a deep-lounge profile; rolled arms reduce sprawl space | Conversation seating, mixed-height households, traditional rooms |
| Carter Power Reclining Sofa with Console | 4.1 | Console + charging features; leather-look, easy-clean fabric | Console limits the middle seat; more setup and space constraints | Gaming/TV setups, device-heavy households, organized living rooms |
Testing Team Takeaways
The biggest difference showed up after an hour or two. The power recliners (Henry and Carter) stayed forgiving as posture changed, while the stationary sofas (Digby and Thornton) felt best when you sit more upright. Thornton was the easiest for me to sit down and feel aligned right away. Henry did the most to ease end-of-day lower-back tightness once we dialed in the lumbar. Marcus focused on edge support and stability and gave Henry the nod there. Carlos cared most about head and neck position; he preferred Digby’s cleaner back profile and the headrest control on Henry.
Flexsteel Comparison Chart
| Item | Henry Power Reclining Sofa | Digby Fabric Sofa | Thornton Fabric Sofa | Carter Power Reclining Sofa with Console |
| Overall dimensions | 44H x 86W x 41D | 36H x 70W x 36D | 38H x 86W x 35D | 42H x 88W x 41D |
| Seat depth / height | 22 / 21 | 22 / 20 | 20 / 21 | 21 / 19 |
| Motion type | Power reclining | Stationary | Stationary | Power reclining |
| Notable comfort features | Power headrest + power lumbar; Zero Gravity | Tight back; accent pillows; reversible cushions | Rolled arms; semi-attached back; reversible cushions | Power headrest + power lumbar; Zero Gravity; console features |
| Upholstery category | Leather | Fabric | Fabric | Leather-look, easy-clean fabric |
| Seat cushion spec | High-Density (HC) | Luxury (LC) | Luxury (LC) | High-Density (HC) |
| Spring unit | DualFlex | C-Flex | C-Flex | DualFlex |
| Wall clearance / open depth | 7 / 68 | - | - | 9 / 71 |
| Ease of cleaning (testing impression) | Quick wipe-downs; keep an eye on high-touch wear areas | Reversible cushions help “reset” wear patterns | Reversible cushions simplify rotating and spot cleaning | Fast wipe-ups; console helps keep clutter contained |
| Seat feel (testing impression) | Plush contouring with controlled support | Support-forward, not overly sinky | Balanced and upright-friendly | Plush, theater-style comfort with feature-first ergonomics |
How We Tested It
Using our how we test sofas process, we rotated each Flexsteel sofa through normal routines—TV nights, laptop work, quick naps, and hosting—then scored performance on Assembly, Cooling/Breathability, Comfort (seat comfort, back support, and seat-depth fit), Durability, Layout Practicality, Cleaning, and Value. I tracked lower-back support over long sits and whether my hips drifted forward. Marcus focused on edge support and structural steadiness under load, while Carlos paid attention to head and neck posture as he moved between upright work and reclined relaxation. Mia flagged when seat height and depth felt mismatched for shorter legs.
Flexsteel: Our Testing Experience
Henry Power Reclining Sofa
Our Testing Experience
Henry was the sofa where I stopped fidgeting the fastest. Once I set the recline, the headrest and lumbar let me fine-tune posture instead of settling for “close enough.” The contoured, waterfall-style chaise supported my legs well, and over a couple of weeks the seat kept its shape without developing a soft dip.
Marcus leaned hard on the front edge and shifted his weight side-to-side; the frame stayed composed and the power motion never felt flimsy. Carlos liked being able to bring the headrest forward so his head stayed neutral. Mia’s note was simple: the seat depth felt generous for a fully upright sit, so she preferred a throw pillow behind her back.
What we liked:
- Headrest and lumbar adjustments made long sits feel more supported
- Front edge felt steady when standing up
- Recline positions were easy to fine-tune without losing support
Who it is best for:
- People who alternate between upright sitting and full recline in the same evening
- Back-sensitive loungers who want control over lumbar support and head angle
- Households that treat the sofa as primary nightly seating
Where it falls short:
- Large scale can crowd tighter layouts
- Power features add outlet planning and heavier handling
- Leather can feel warmer during long sessions for heat-sensitive users
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Power recline with power headrest and power lumbar on the end seats | Needs space planning for wall clearance and open depth |
| Zero Gravity recline feel helps reduce pressure on long lounging sessions | Heavier piece; not ideal to reposition often |
| Plush-looking seat with a controlled, supportive core | Leather can run warmer with extended contact |
| USB charging at the controls simplifies device use | More moving parts than a stationary sofa |
Details
- Model: 1041-62PH-94680
- Overall dimensions: 44H x 86W x 41D
- Seat dimensions: seat width 67, seat depth 22, seat height 21
- Arm height: 27
- Open depth / wall clearance: open depth 68, wall clearance 7
- Upholstery category: leather
- Motion type: power reclining
- Comfort features: power headrest(s), power lumbar, Zero Gravity recline, charging ports included
- Seat cushion spec: High-Density (HC)
- Spring unit: DualFlex
- Backrests: removable for easier moving through the home
Review Score
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Assembly | 3.5 | Manageable, but heavy and power routing matters |
| Cooling / Breathability | 3.4 | Comfortable, but long contact can feel warmer |
| Seat Comfort | 4.6 | Plush contouring without losing underlying support |
| Back Support | 4.7 | Lumbar and headrest controls reduce slouch drift |
| Seat Depth Fit | 4.2 | Deep enough for lounging; upright sitting may need a pillow for petite users |
| Ease of Movement / hookup | 3.6 | Easy to adjust positions, less easy to physically reposition |
| Layout Practicality | 3.8 | Needs wall clearance and outlet planning |
| Cleaning | 4.2 | Quick wipe-downs; focus on high-touch wear areas |
| Durability | 4.7 | Felt solid under load; support stayed consistent |
| Value | 4.0 | Feature-rich comfort and support justify the footprint |
| Overall Score | 4.3 | Best all-around for back-sensitive, recline-first households |
Digby Fabric Sofa
Our Testing Experience
Digby felt like the no-fuss, work-friendly option the moment I sat down with a laptop. The tightly padded back kept me from sliding into a rounded posture, and the slim arms made the seat feel more usable than you’d expect from a 70-inch sofa.
By day three, I kept choosing it for quick work sessions—upright, feet planted, shoulders relaxed—because the support stayed consistent. Marcus did his front-edge test (sit on the edge, tie shoes, pop up), and it held up better than softer lounge sofas we’ve tested. Carlos liked that the back didn’t push his head forward. Mia’s feedback was the trade-off: the seat depth is generous for a smaller frame, so she preferred a pillow or a slightly angled sit for a fully upright position.
What we liked:
- Upright support for laptop work and conversation
- Compact width without feeling cramped in the seat
- Reversible cushions made it easy to rotate wear patterns
Who it is best for:
- Small-to-mid rooms that still need a full sofa (not just a loveseat)
- People who work on the couch and want posture consistency
- Anyone who prefers a supportive sit over a deep “sink” feel
Where it falls short:
- Less ideal for full-body lounging or long naps
- Deeper seat can challenge shorter legs without a pillow
- Tight-back style offers fewer “melt-in” positions
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Space-efficient footprint with a surprisingly roomy seat | Not the plushest option for all-day lounging |
| Tight back supports a more upright posture | Seat depth can feel long for petite users |
| Reversible cushions simplify rotation and upkeep | Less head/neck cradling than divided-back recliners |
| Accent pillows included for small fit adjustments | Fewer “recline-like” comfort positions |
Details
- Model: 5966-30
- Overall dimensions: 36H x 70W x 36D
- Seat dimensions: seat width 58, seat depth 22, seat height 20
- Arm height: 27
- Upholstery category: fabric
- Motion type: stationary
- Feature set: 2-cushion; reversible seat cushion(s); custom wood finish; accent pillows included
- Seat cushion spec: Luxury (LC) (plush option listed)
- Spring unit: C-Flex
- Product weight: 95 lb
Review Score
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Assembly | 4.5 | Stationary setup is straightforward and low-fuss |
| Cooling / Breathability | 4.2 | Fabric feel stayed comfortable across long sits |
| Seat Comfort | 4.0 | Support-first comfort; less “sink-in” than lounge styles |
| Back Support | 4.1 | Tight back helped posture consistency during work sessions |
| Seat Depth Fit | 3.8 | Deep seat works well for average/taller users; petite users may add a pillow |
| Ease of Movement / Repositioning | 4.3 | Relatively easy to shift and reset in the room |
| Layout Practicality | 4.6 | Compact width plays well in apartments and offices |
| Cleaning | 4.0 | Reversible cushions make maintenance more forgiving |
| Durability | 4.3 | Held shape well in daily use and edge tests |
| Value | 4.4 | Practical daily-driver sofa with broad room compatibility |
| Overall Score | 4.2 | Best pick for compact spaces and upright comfort |
Thornton Fabric Sofa
Our Testing Experience
Thornton was the easiest sofa for a straight, feet-on-the-floor sit. The seat depth is shorter than the others, so my hips didn’t drift forward and my lower back didn’t start negotiating for support after an hour.
On a weeknight, I used it for a couple of episodes while answering messages on a laptop, and it stayed comfortable without that slow slide into a slouch. Marcus liked the stable edge feel and found it easier to stand up from compared to lower-seat motion sofas. Carlos noticed the semi-attached back cushions stayed put—no constant re-fluffing—so upper-back support felt predictable. Mia appreciated that her feet stayed planted and she could sit cross-legged without feeling swallowed, even if it’s less of a “curl up and disappear” lounge shape than deeper sofas.
What we liked:
- Seat geometry that supports upright sitting without constant adjustments
- Reversible cushions made rotation and spot cleaning simple
- Classic shape worked for both casual and more formal rooms
Who it is best for:
- People who want reliable daily seating
- Mixed-height households that need feet-on-floor comfort
- Hosts who want conversation-friendly seating
Where it falls short:
- Not the best match for deep lounging or long naps
- Rolled arms limit sprawl space when you want to stretch out
- Those who want an ultra-plush sink may find it more “balanced” than cloud-like
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Seat depth supports upright posture and reduces slouch drift | Less of a deep-lounge profile for napping |
| Reversible seat cushions make rotating and cleaning easier | Rolled arms reduce usable lounge width |
| Includes accent pillows for small comfort adjustments | Not a motion sofa; fewer dialed-in recline positions |
| Kiln-dried wood frame with mortise-and-tenon joinery; handcrafted in North America | Traditional styling may not suit ultra-modern rooms |
Details
- Model: 5535-31
- Overall dimensions: 38H x 86W x 35D
- Seat dimensions: seat width 67, seat depth 20, seat height 21
- Arm height: 26
- Upholstery category: fabric
- Motion type: stationary
- Feature set: 3-cushion; reversible seat cushion(s); accent pillows included
- Frame: kiln-dried wood frame with mortise-and-tenon joinery; handcrafted in North America
- Back construction: semi-attached
- Seat cushion spec: Luxury (LC) (plush option listed)
- Spring unit: C-Flex
- Product weight: 143 lb
Review Score
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Assembly | 4.4 | Stationary setup; weight makes it a two-person move |
| Cooling / Breathability | 4.2 | Stayed comfortable for long sitting sessions |
| Seat Comfort | 4.1 | Balanced cushioning for daily use, not overly plush |
| Back Support | 4.2 | Predictable support; cushions stayed positioned well |
| Seat Depth Fit | 4.4 | Shorter depth fit a wider range of leg lengths |
| Ease of Movement / Repositioning | 3.9 | More effort to move, but stable once placed |
| Layout Practicality | 4.0 | Classic shape; width is substantial but manageable |
| Cleaning | 4.2 | Reversible cushions improve long-term upkeep |
| Durability | 4.5 | Felt sturdy and consistent through daily rotation |
| Value | 4.3 | Strong everyday performance with classic styling |
| Overall Score | 4.2 | Best for upright comfort and traditional living spaces |
Carter Power Reclining Sofa with Console
Our Testing Experience
Carter quickly turned into the “command center” sofa in our living room. Flip the center back down and everything has a home—remotes, a drink, a phone—without turning the seat cushions into a clutter pile.
On longer TV nights, the power recline and headrest made it easy to land on a comfortable angle, and the lumbar adjustment helped me avoid end-of-episode lower-back fatigue. Marcus loved the cupholders and the steady feel when he shifted around during gaming. Carlos noticed the headrest control mattered most when moving from upright to reclined—he could keep his head from pitching forward. Mia liked the lower seat height at first sit, but she didn’t love the console layout for curling up; it’s built more for two defined seats than for sprawling across the middle.
What we liked:
- Console layout reduced clutter and made lounge sessions feel organized
- Power headrest/lumbar let us fine-tune comfort quickly
- Leather-look, easy-clean fabric handled everyday messes well
Who it is best for:
- Home-theater living rooms and frequent gamers/streamers
- Households that want device charging and lighting built into seating
- People who like structured seating positions more than free-form lounging
Where it falls short:
- Console reduces true three-seat flexibility
- Requires more wall clearance planning than stationary sofas
- More complexity than a simple sit-anywhere sofa
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Flip-down console with cupholders, lighting, and wireless charging | Console limits middle seating and curl-up positions |
| Power recline with power headrests and power lumbar on the end seats | More space planning: wall clearance and open depth |
| USB-A and USB-C charging at the controls | Feature density increases setup complexity |
| Durable, water-resistant, easy-clean upholstery with a leather-like look | Less flexible for “sprawl seating” than a wide stationary sofa |
Details
- Model: 1587-63PH-88672
- Overall dimensions: 42H x 88W x 41D
- Seat dimensions: seat width 71, seat depth 21, seat height 19
- Arm height: 25
- Open depth / wall clearance: open depth 71, wall clearance 9
- Upholstery category: fabric; positioned as durable, water-resistant, and easy-to-clean with a leather-like look
- Motion type: power reclining
- Feature set: cup holders; power headrest(s); power lumbar; charging ports; Zero Gravity reclining; flip-down center back; lighting; wireless charging; heavy-thread stitching
- Seat cushion spec: High-Density (HC)
- Spring unit: DualFlex
Review Score
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Assembly | 3.6 | More setup variables because of power and feature components |
| Cooling / Breathability | 3.6 | Comfortable, but not the coolest-feeling surface in long contact |
| Seat Comfort | 4.5 | Plush theater-style comfort with supportive contouring |
| Back Support | 4.6 | Headrest and lumbar adjustability kept posture stable |
| Seat Depth Fit | 4.0 | Good middle ground; lower seat height changes stand-up feel |
| Ease of Movement / Repositioning | 3.5 | Easy to adjust recline; not ideal to physically move often |
| Layout Practicality | 3.7 | Console layout is purposeful but less flexible for hosting |
| Cleaning | 4.5 | Wipe-ups were quick; console helps keep items contained |
| Durability | 4.6 | Felt sturdy under load and repeated use |
| Value | 4.1 | Strong fit for feature-first buyers who will use the console tools |
| Overall Score | 4.1 | Best for organized home-theater seating, less for open lounging |
Compare Performance Scores of These Sofas
| Sofa | Overall Score | Seat Comfort | Back Support | Seat Depth Fit | Cooling / Breathability | Durability | Ease of Movement / Repositioning |
| Henry Power Reclining Sofa | 4.3 | 4.6 | 4.7 | 4.2 | 3.4 | 4.7 | 3.6 |
| Digby Fabric Sofa | 4.2 | 4.0 | 4.1 | 3.8 | 4.2 | 4.3 | 4.3 |
| Thornton Fabric Sofa | 4.2 | 4.1 | 4.2 | 4.4 | 4.2 | 4.5 | 3.9 |
| Carter Power Reclining Sofa with Console | 4.1 | 4.5 | 4.6 | 4.0 | 3.6 | 4.6 | 3.5 |
On the scorecard, Henry leads if you want adjustable comfort and the strongest back-support showing, while Thornton stands out for seat-depth fit and an upright-friendly sit. Digby scores well on layout flexibility and ease of repositioning, which matters more than most people expect in smaller rooms. Carter concentrates its advantage in features: it’s the most home-theater-forward option, but the console trades away some hosting and curl-up flexibility.
How to Choose a Flexsteel Sofa
Start with how you actually sit. If you shift from upright to full recline nightly, prioritize powered head and lumbar control and confirm you can accommodate open depth, wall clearance, and an outlet nearby. If you sit upright for laptop work or conversation, pay close attention to seat depth and back-cushion geometry—shallower seats tend to reduce slouch drift. For petite users, a shallower seat depth often feels more natural; for taller users, deeper seats support longer legs better. If your living room doubles as a charging or gaming hub, a console-based layout can reduce clutter but will limit curl-up space.
Recommendations:
- Back-sensitive recliners: Henry or Carter
- Small rooms and mixed-use seating: Digby
- Upright comfort and classic hosting: Thornton
Limitations
Flexsteel’s motion sofas pay off when you plan for power access and clearance; without that, the same features that feel luxurious can become daily friction. The stationary styles here were easier to place and more flexible for hosting, but less ideal for deep lounging and napping. Digby’s deeper seat can feel long for shorter legs, while Thornton’s shallower depth can feel less lounge-friendly if you want to melt in. Carter’s console improves organization but reduces the freedom to sprawl across the middle.
Flexsteel vs. Alternatives
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Why choose these models:
- Consistent support and a steady seat feel across daily use
- Clear comfort split: upright-friendly (Thornton/Digby) vs. recline-first (Henry/Carter)
- Features that map to real routines (charging, recline control, reversible cushions)
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Alternatives to consider:
- La-Z-Boy Trouper Power Reclining Sofa w/ Headrest: comfort-first power reclining with a familiar, loungey feel
- Ashley Next-Gen DuraPella Power Reclining Sofa: value-driven power reclining with easy-clean upholstery
- Bradington-Young Reece Reclining Sofa with Power Headrest: premium leather-motion option for buyers prioritizing materials
Pro Tips for Flexsteel
- Measure more than width—check open depth and wall clearance before choosing a motion model.
- Treat seat depth as a fit spec: add a lumbar pillow if you’re short-legged on deeper seats.
- Rotate reversible cushions regularly to keep feel consistent and reduce premature wear.
- For power sofas, route cords so they don’t become a toe-catch zone near recline paths.
- Use headrest adjustment to keep your chin from tipping down during long TV sessions.
- If you run warm, take breaks from full-contact positions and skip heavy blankets on warmer upholstery.
- Console layouts work best when you commit to a routine—keep remotes and drinks in the same zones.
- If you stand up frequently, pay attention to seat height—lower seats can feel more loungey but harder to exit.
- If you host often, avoid a console layout as your only main sofa; pair with chairs or an ottoman for flexibility.
- Re-check traffic paths around reclining sofas so footrests don’t block walkways at full extension.
FAQs
Which Flexsteel sofa felt best for lower-back support during long TV nights?
Henry scored highest for back support in our testing because the lumbar and headrest controls made it easier to keep a stable curve instead of sliding into a slouch.
Is a console sofa like Carter practical as a main living-room sofa?
It’s practical for organized TV and gaming setups, but less ideal for hosting three adults comfortably or for curling up across the middle.
Which model fit a wider range of heights without needing pillows?
Thornton’s shallower seat depth made it easiest for shorter legs to stay planted while still feeling comfortable for average-height users.