Small Futon vs Sofa Bed: Your Comparison Guide

July 7, 2022

If you are not sure whether a small futon or a sofa bed is the best option for you, this comparison guide can help. Click on each category to learn more.

If you are looking for a high quality small futon at a price you can afford, contact us.

Small Futon vs Sofa Bed

1. Difference Between Futons and Sofa Beds

Futon: 

A futon has a frame that is made of either metal or wood. The futon mattress sits on top of this frame. The futon mattress serves multiple purposes including:

  • Couch cushion when it's in a seating position
  • Back support when it's in a seating position
  • Sleeping mattress when it's expanded to be used as a bed


Sofa Bed: 

A sofa bed, on the other hand, has its mattress hidden underneath the frame of the sofa when you are using it as a couch.


It comes with separate seat cushions that you use when you want to want to sit on it and that you remove when you pull out the the mattress and frame to use it as a bed.


Photo by Maniago, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons


2. Price Points


The price you pay for a small futon or sofa bed will depend on a several factors including:


  • The quality of the materials 
  • The quality of the artistry
  • The size you want
  • The style you choose
  • The manufacturer


Futons:


A small futon will usually cost somewhere between $600 to $800 for the frame and mattress where a larger one made of hardwood could cost up to $1,500.


Sofa Beds:


In general, you will probably pay more for a sofa bed than a small futon. A sofa bed could cost anywhere from $600 to $5,000 or more.

A small futon usually costs between $600 and $800

3. Comfort Level


Futons: 


Futons generally have thicker mattresses than sofa beds which make them more comfortable to sleep on. If you are going to use your futon for sleeping regularly, then they are a more comfortable option. 


Make sure you choose a quality mattress such as one made from memory foam. This type of futon mattress can be just as comfortable as a regular bed. 


Sofa Beds: 


Because the sofa bed mattress has to be able to fold up and hide within its frame when it's not being used as a bed, the mattresses need to be thinner and quite flexible. This often means that they are not very comfortable to sleep on. 


If you are purchasing a sofa bed, it's a good idea to test out the mattress to make sure it is thick and firm enough and that you can't feel the springs through it.


Choose a small futon with a comfortable mattress

4. Available Sizes


Both futons and sofa beds come in a full range of sizes including:


  • Single
  • Double
  • Queen
  • King


If you are looking for a small futon or sofa bed, then selecting a style without arms will give more sleeping space without the extra width of arm rests on either side. Some styles of futons are designed with arms that fold down so that you can have the best of both worlds.


If you are really wanting to cut down on the space that your small futon or sofa bed takes up, then remember that a sofa bed has the extra back that doesn't fold down. This means that it will stick out from the wall further than the same size of futon will. That's because the back of your futon folds down and becomes a part of your frame.

The back of your futon folds down so it takes up less space

5. Ease of Operation


Futons: 


A modern and well-made small futon is generally very easy operate and convert from a seating position to a sleeping position and vice versa. For many models, you simply need to press the back of the futon down or lift the front of the futon up to turn it into a bed. To bring it back into a sofa position, simply lift the back up or push the front down.


Sofa Beds: 


A sofa bed requires a few more steps to set up than a futon. First, you need to remove all of the cushions and store them away. Then you need to pull the frame up and out to unfold it. 


The frame is usually made of metal can be quit heavy to pull out. You are essentially lifting the frame and a mattress at the same time. When you wake up from sleeping, you fold the frame inside the sofa and put the seat cushions back in place

Watch how easy it is to operate this futon

6. Uses


A small futon or sofa bed has many great uses. Here are just a few.


Small apartments: 


Small futons and sofa beds are a good choice for small apartments, bachelor apartments, and studio apartments. They can help you make the most of your limited space as they can be used during the day for sitting and at night for sleeping. They also can turn a one-bedroom apartment into a two-bedroom if you have one in your living room.


Multi-purpose spaces: 


A small futon or sofa bed is great for multi-purpose rooms like dens, game rooms, or family rooms. Because they are multi-purpose furniture, they are a great way to optimize the space in your multifunctional areas.


Small bedrooms: 


If a king or queen-size bed takes up too much space in your bedroom so that you have no room to move around during the day, but you do not want to settle for a single or double bed, then why not invest in a small futon or sofa bed. 


Choose one without arms to maximize the space even further. You can have a queen or king-size futon that will give you all the room you need to sleep comfortably every night and then when you wake up, you can simply convert it to a sofa to give you all the space you need to walk around during the day. 


Home offices: 


A small futon or sofa bed tucked away into a corner of your office won't take up a lot of precious space and it will be ready to use if you need to use your office as an extra guest bedroom. In addition, it is the perfect spot for a mid-afternoon nap to get your creative juices running again.

Futons are great for multi-functional spaces

For the Best Quality and Best Price for Your Futon, Choose The Futon Shop


If you are looking for the best quality futons at the best price, contact The Futon Shop. At The Futon Shop, we know how amazing our futons are because we are both the manufacturer and the retailer! Since 1984 we have been manufacturing our line of high-quality futons in a wide variety of styles and sizes. If you prefer, we can also make a custom size to meet your exact requirements. 


All of our futons are crafted right here in Canada at our Burlington Ontario location, so you can be sure that you are getting a quality product that will last. We are the largest futon manufacturer in Canada and we even build our line of high-quality futon mattresses. You can come to see our incredible lineup at our Burlington location or you can shop for all of our products online. We ship all across Canada. 


Looking for a small futon? Here are a few options to choose from. Click here to see our full gallery.

Start Shopping

"We purchased from here instead of getting something shipped from Amazon because we were hoping for better quality & better customer service, not to mention supporting local, and we were not disappointed. Everyone we spoke with was super kind & helpful, our order was ready quickly and they fully loaded it into our vehicle, and when we had a slight issue with our order they were extremely quick to resolve it. The futon looks great and the mattress is really comfy. We did go with the tahoe pine frame which is not the best quality wood, but that’s to be expected in our price range - opt for better if you can afford it. Overall, worth the extra drive to Burlington (or the shipping cost if you get delivery).

."

- Kathleen Pacheco


Read more reviews


The Futon Shop Burlington Showroom Business Hours

Tuesday - Friday: 10:00am - 4:00pm   |  Saturday: 10:00am - 3:00pm     Sunday - Monday: Closed


5205 Harvester Rd, Burlington, L7L, ON, Canada


A living room with a couch , table , and rug.

The Versatility of Futons: Redefining Comfort and Style in Every Room

By Ron Becker • July 18, 2025
When you hear the word "futon," you might immediately think of a standard fold-out couch tucked into a makeshift college dorm room. But that stereotype couldn't be further from the truth. Modern futons have evolved to become one of the most versatile, stylish, and functional pieces of furniture in a home. Whether you're enhancing a living room, setting up a guest-ready space, or creating a multi-functional home office, a quality futon can check all your boxes for comfort, practicality, and aesthetic appeal. One standout brand leading the charge in elevating futons is The Futon Shop, known for its Canadian-made products crafted with care and eco-conscious materials. Let's explore how futons can transform spaces across your home and some tips for choosing the perfect one to suit your needs.
A woman is laying on a couch using a laptop computer.

How to Care for Your Futon: A Practical Guide

By Ron Becker • May 13, 2025
Futons are a versatile and stylish addition to any space, making them especially popular among students, apartment dwellers, and minimalists. Whether you use your futon as a bed, a sofa, or both, it’s essential to take proper care of it to maximize comfort and longevity. With just a little attention to maintenance, you’ll keep your futon looking great and lasting for years.
A man is laying on a futon looking at his phone.

The Versatility of Futons

By Ron Becker • April 24, 2025
The Versatility of Futons
A living room with a couch , coffee table , bookshelf and clock.

Futons Are the Perfect Solution for Your Guests' Comfort

By Ron Becker • March 14, 2025
Futons are the perfect solution
A black and white striped blanket is on a couch in a living room.

Budget Friendly Decor Ideas with Futons and Bean Bag Chairs

By Ron Becker • February 18, 2025
Futon Decor
A man and a woman are sitting on a red bean bag chair

Why You Should Consider Getting a Bean Bag Chair

By Ron Becker • January 17, 2025
When it comes to adding comfort and style to your living space, bean bag chairs are often overlooked, but they offer so much more than just being fun, casual seating. Whether you're a homeowner looking for a cozy corner, a college student needing relaxation furniture for a small dorm room, or a parent setting up a kid-friendly rec area, a bean bag chair may just be the perfect addition. Let's explore why bean bag chairs deserve a spot in your home.
A futon is sitting on a wooden floor next to a staircase.

The Best Futons for Small Spaces and Multi-Functional Homes

By Sara DeSantis • December 27, 2024
Living in a small space doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style or functionality. Whether you’re in a compact apartment, a dorm room, or creating a guest-friendly home office, futons are a game-changer. These versatile pieces combine comfortable seating and a convenient sleeping solution, making them perfect for multi-functional living. At The Futon Shop, we offer a wide selection of high-quality futons designed to fit your space and lifestyle. Here’s your guide to finding the best futon for small spaces and multi-functional homes. Why Futons are Perfect for Small Spaces Futons are specifically designed with versatility and practicality in mind, making them an excellent investment for those looking to maximize their living space. Here’s what makes them shine in compact homes: Space-saving: Futons serve as both a couch and a bed in one compact design. When you’re not using it as a bed, it folds neatly into a stylish sofa, freeing up valuable floor space. Multi-Functional: Whether you need a place to sit during the day or a guest bed at night, a futon can seamlessly adapt to your needs. Budget-Friendly: Compared to buying both a sofa and a separate bed, futons are cost-effective without compromising on functionality. Choosing the Right Futon for Your Space When shopping for a futon, consider your room size, design preferences, and how often you’ll use it as a bed. Here are some key tips to help you choose the perfect one: 1. Measure Your Space: Before making a decision, measure your room to find the right futon size. Compact futons with minimalist frames are ideal for tight spaces. If you have a little more room, a full-size or queen-size futon can offer additional comfort and sleeping space. 2. Consider the Mattress Type: The type of mattress you choose affects your comfort. At The Futon Shop, we offer options ranging from memory foam to wool or latex blends. For regular sleeping, prioritize thicker, supportive mattresses. For occasional guest use, thinner mattresses may be sufficient without taking up too much space. 3. Match Your Décor: Your futon should enhance your room’s style. Luckily, modern futons come in a variety of designs, from sleek and contemporary to cozy and classic. Look for frames in wood or metal finishes that complement your existing furniture, and don’t forget about choosing a mattress cover that matches your colour scheme. 4. Opt for Storage-Friendly Futons: If you’re short on storage space, consider futons with built-in compartments. These hidden gems allow you to easily store bedding, pillows, or other essentials without adding extra clutter to your room. Top Futon Styles for Compact Living At The Futon Shop, we pride ourselves on offering a range of futons that combine style, comfort, and practicality. Here are a few standout options perfect for small spaces and multi-functional homes: Convertible Sofa Futons: These futons quickly transform into a bed with just a few adjustments and feature sleek modern designs ideal for minimalist spaces. Armless Futons: Without bulky arms, these futons consume less space and maintain a fresh, open look. Futon Bunk Beds: Perfect for kid’s rooms or shared living spaces, these combine a traditional futon with a bunk bed, optimizing vertical space. Tri-Fold Futons: With a unique design that folds into three parts, tri-fold futons are incredibly compact when stored yet comfortable when in use. Why Choose The Futon Shop? At The Futon Shop, we know that functionality and style go hand in hand, especially for small spaces. That’s why we offer a diverse range of futons crafted for durability and comfort. Plus, our collections cater to every budget, ensuring there’s an option for everyone. Whether you’re furnishing your first apartment, upgrading a guest room, or adding sleeping space to a home office, we’ve got you covered. Our futons are made with high-quality materials and a commitment to sustainability, giving you peace of mind with your purchase. And with our expert team ready to help, we make it easy to find the futon that fits you perfectly. Maximize Your Space Today Don’t settle for furniture that doesn’t keep up with your lifestyle. A futon from The Futon Shop is a smart, stylish solution for small spaces and multi-functional homes. Visit one of our locations or browse our online store today to find your perfect match. Transform your living space with a futon that adapts to your needs and reflects your personal style. The possibilities are endless! Transform Your Space Today Call the friendly stall at 1-844- 93 FUTON!

Creative Futon Uses for Stylish and Functional Spaces

November 22, 2024
Are you looking to maximize your space without sacrificing style? Say hello to the versatile futon—a hero of small living spaces and a favorite among interior design enthusiasts. In this blog post, we'll explore creative futon uses that can transform your home decor while saving precious space. Why Choose a Futon? Before we jump into the creative possibilities, let's talk about why futons are a fantastic choice for any home. Space-Saving Marvels Futons are the epitome of space-saving furniture. With their dual functionality as a sofa and a bed, they are perfect for small apartments, guest rooms, or any area where space is at a premium. Versatile Designs Today's futons come in an array of designs and materials, making them easy to match with any decor style. Whether you're a fan of minimalist aesthetics or boho-chic vibes, there's a futon design that will fit right in. Budget-Friendly Options Compared to traditional furniture, futons are often more affordable, allowing you to allocate your budget towards other home decor transformations. Creative Futon Uses Now, let's get creative! Here are some innovative ways to incorporate a futon into your home. The Ultimate Guest Room Solution Transform your home office or study into a cozy guest room by adding a futon. It's an ideal solution for accommodating overnight visitors without needing a dedicated guest room. Simply unfold the futon when guests arrive, and voilà—a comfortable sleeping space awaits. Chic Lounge Area Create a stylish lounge nook in your living room or bedroom with a futon. Layer it with decorative pillows and throws to add texture and color. Use a slim side table or a pouf as a coffee table to complete the look. This setup is perfect for reading, relaxing, or hosting casual get-togethers. Kids' Playroom Fun A futon in a child's playroom offers a fun and functional seating area for kids. It's also a great place for sleepovers! Choose futon covers with playful patterns or colors to match the room's theme. Outdoor Relaxation Did you know you can use a futon outdoors too? Place a weather-resistant futon on your patio or balcony to create an inviting outdoor retreat. Just make sure to choose materials that can withstand the elements. Multifunctional Living Area In compact apartments, a futon can serve as both your main sofa and a bed. Opt for a futon with built-in storage to keep linens and other essentials neatly tucked away. Choosing the Right Futon When selecting a futon, consider visiting The Futon Shop in Burlington . They offer a wide range of options and expert advice to help you find the perfect futon...  Size and Dimensions: Make sure the futon fits well in your space when both folded and unfolded.  Comfort and Support: Test the futon for comfort, especially if it will be used frequently as a bed.  Material and Durability: Choose materials that suit your lifestyle and decor preferences. Transform Your Space Today Integrating a futon into your home decor is a smart way to enhance functionality without compromising style. Whether you're designing a cozy guest room or creating a chic lounge area, futons offer endless possibilities for home decor transformations. Ready to explore more futon design ideas? Visit The Futon Shop in Burlington to discover a wide selection of space-saving furniture options. Transform your home and elevate your interior design game with the versatile futon—your secret weapon for stylish and functional living spaces! Call the friendly stall at 1-844- 93 FUTON!
Futon Burlington

Futons Save Space and Money

By Ron Becker • October 28, 2024
Are you living in a small apartment or dorm room? Do you have a limited budget as a college student? If you answered yes, then you may find yourself searching for furniture that solves your problems. Enter the futon. This space-saving, versatile piece of furniture has become a must-have for college students, home decorators, and anyone living in a small space. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of owning a futon, why it’s such a popular choice, and how it can become a game-changer in your living space. We’ll also provide practical tips on selecting the right futon for your needs, as well as where to find the best options, like The Futon Shop in Hamilton and Burlington.
Futon Shop Hamilton

Futons Are the Ultimate Space-Saving Solution for Stylish Living

By Dawn Sherwin • September 30, 2024
In today's world, maximizing space is more than just a trend; it's a necessity. Whether you're living in a cozy studio apartment, decorating a small bedroom, or setting up your first dorm room, finding furniture that doesn't overwhelm your space is crucial. Enter the futon—a versatile, stylish solution designed to save space and add functionality to any room. Let's explore how futons can transform small spaces into comfortable, multi-functional areas without sacrificing style or comfort.