The Lovesac Sactional and the Koala Torquay Modular Sofa are both modern, adaptable sofas, but they differ significantly in customizability, price, and overall design philosophy. The Lovesac Sactional offers nearly endless configurations and premium, washable fabric options at a higher price point, while the Koala Torquay provides a streamlined, minimalist aesthetic and excellent value for a more budget-conscious shopper.
Here’s everything you need to know to decide which of these popular modular sofas from Lovesac and Koala is the right fit for your home.
Lovesac Sactionals
Lovesac's Sactional is the original "forever sofa," designed with total modularity in mind. It's built from individual "seat" and "side" components that lock together in any arrangement you can imagine, allowing you to create anything from an armchair to a massive U-shaped sectional. Its appeal lies in its adaptability - you can rearrange it, add to it, or change the covers whenever you want.
- What it is: A highly customizable modular sofa system composed of interlocking seat and side pieces with removable, machine-washable covers.
- Key features: Patented interlocking clamp system, guaranteed-for-life frame hardware, hundreds of cover options available separately, deep seating (standard and deep profiles available), and ability to add integrated tech like speakers and chargers.
- Price: Starts around $1,200 for a small configuration and can easily exceed $5,000+ for larger sectionals.
- Style: Versatile and contemporary, can range from modern to cozy depending on the chosen fabric and configuration.
- Materials/Construction: Solid hardwood frames, spring suspension, high-density foam cushions, and a wide array of cover fabrics from polyester blends to velvets and chenilles.
- Pros: Infinitely reconfigurable to fit any space. Covers are removable and machine-washable, perfect for families and pet owners. You can expand it piece by piece over time. Durable construction with a lifetime guarantee on hard components.
- Cons: A significant investment compared to other modular sofas. The sheer number of choices can be overwhelming. Each individual component is heavy and assembly can be time-consuming.
The Lovesac Sactional is for those who want a long-term, adaptable furniture system that can evolve with their living situation and are willing to invest in premium features and quality.
Shop this product: lovesac.com/sactionals
Koala Torquay Modular Sofa
The Koala Torquay Modular Sofa takes a more simplified approach to modularity, offering clean lines and a straightforward design at an attractive price point. Known for its comfort and responsible materials, the Australian brand delivers a sofa that's stylish, functional, and easy to live with, appealing to customers who want modern aesthetics without the high cost or complexity of other systems.
- What it is: A minimalist modular sofa with rearrangeable components, designed by a direct-to-consumer brand focused on practicality and eco-conscious materials.
- Key features: Tool-free assembly, high-density foam cushions for supportive comfort, responsibly sourced timber frame, and soft yet durable fabric covers.
- Price: Typically ranges from $1,099 to $1,299.
- Style: Clean, minimalist, and modern with a distinct Scandinavian influence.
- Materials/Construction: FSC-certified solid timber frame, high-density foam core cushions, and soft, resilient fabric upholstery.
- Pros: Very budget-friendly for a modular sofa of its quality. Simple and fast, tool-free assembly. Sleek, versatile design fits well in contemporary spaces. Made with eco-friendly and responsibly sourced materials.
- Cons: Far less customizable than a Lovesac Sactional, limited to a few standard configurations. Fewer fabric and color options are available. Covers are not designed to be frequently removed and machine-washed.
The Koala Torquay is an ideal choice for design-conscious shoppers on a budget who appreciate minimalist style and don't need infinite configuration options.
Shop this product: koala.com/en-us/sofas-sofa-beds/modular-sofa
Lovesac vs. Koala Comparison
Modularity, Dimensions & Scale
This is the biggest differentiator. The Lovesac Sactional offers true, near-infinite modularity. You can build a sofa of any size or shape by combining individual seats and sides, making it ideal for uniquely shaped rooms, a growing family, or someone who moves frequently. You can start small and add pieces years later.
The Koala Torquay Sofa is also modular, but in a more defined way. You can typically arrange its components as a three-seater or a sectional, but the system isn't designed for infinite expansion or unconventional shapes. It fits well in standard living room layouts but lacks the extreme flexibility of the Sactional.
Comfort & Ergonomics
Lovesac puts a premium on plush comfort. Its cushions are deep and designed for lounging, with options for a standard seat depth (~29") or deep seat (~35"). There are also multiple fill options, from a blend of foams to a down-alternative material, allowing you to tailor the feel. The overall experience is one of sinking into a soft, supportive couch.
Koala’s Torquay feels comfortable but is generally firmer and more supportive. The high-density foam provides a resilient seating surface that doesn't sink as much. The seat depth is also more moderate (around 24"), which encourages more upright sitting than a deep lounge. It's built for everyday comfort that holds its shape well.
Materials & Construction
Both brands prioritize quality construction. Lovesac uses steel hardware and solid hardwood frames, which they guarantee for life. Its main advantage is its vast library of hundreds of removable, machine-washable covers, from tough corduroys to luxe velvets. This feature makes it exceptionally durable against spills and wear.
Koala uses an FSC-certified timber frame and high-quality, resilient foam. The focus is on longevity and sustainability within a simpler framework. While its fabric is durable, the selection is more limited, and the covers are not fully removable and machine-washable in the same way Lovesac's are, limiting long-term maintenance options.
Price & Value
There is a clear divide here. The Koala Torquay offers exceptional value, providing a stylish, well-made modular sofa for around $1,200. It's an affordable entry into flexible seating without a massive financial commitment. Free shipping and frequent promotions further increase its appeal for budget-conscious buyers.
Lovesac is a premium product with a price to match. A small Sactional starts where the Torquay tops out, and larger configurations can easily become one of the most expensive pieces of furniture in a home. The value proposition is in its long-term adaptability, washable covers, and lifetime guarantee on components - you are buying a furniture "system" for life.
Style & Versatility
The Koala Torquay has a defined aesthetic: it's sleek, modern, and minimalist. With its clean lines and neutral color palette, it "just works" in most contemporary, mid-century modern, or Scandinavian-inspired homes. Its style is beautiful but specific.
The Lovesac Sactional is a style chameleon. Its final look is almost entirely dependent on the cover you choose. A distressed velvet cover can make it look traditional and cozy, while a gray tweed can make it appear extremely modern and architectural. Its versatility comes from the cover options, not just its shape.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both sofas are excellent choices, but they are designed for very different customers and priorities.
Choose the Lovesac Sactional if:
- You have kids, pets, or just want the peace of mind of truly machine-washable covers.
- You value ultimate customization and want to be able to change your furniture's layout constantly.
- You plan to expand your sofa in the future as your home or family grows.
- You see your sofa as a long-term investment and are willing to pay a premium for durability and adaptability.
Choose the Koala Torquay if:
- You're working with a tighter budget but still want a high-quality, stylish sofa.
- You love a clean, minimalist, or Scandinavian aesthetic.
- You need a sofa that is incredibly easy and quick to assemble without tools.
- You want a comfortable, well-designed piece of furniture without a ton of complicated choices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between the Lovesac Sactional and Koala Torquay?
The main difference is the level of customization and price. The Lovesac Sactional is an expensive, highly adaptable system with infinite configurations and washable covers. The Koala Torquay is an affordable, stylish sofa with limited modularity and a distinct minimalist design.
Is Lovesac worth the higher price?
For many, yes. The value is found in its "forever" design. The ability to reconfigure, expand, and replace covers means you are unlikely to ever need to buy a whole new sofa again. For homes with pets or children, the machine-washable covers alone can justify the cost over the lifespan of the couch.
Which sofa is better for small apartments?
The Sactional is more versatile for small spaces. Because you can buy individual pieces, you can create a unique configuration (like a 2-seat loveseat with a chaise) that perfectly fits a small or awkward room. The Koala Torquay is better suited for standard small-to-medium-sized living rooms.
Are the covers on both sofas washable?
All Sactional covers are designed to be removable and machine-washable, which is a major selling point. The Koala Torquay's upholstery is durable and can be spot-cleaned, but the covers are not designed to be easily removed and laundered in a machine.
How easy is it to reconfigure a Lovesac Sactional?
Reconfiguring a Sactional is straightforward but physical. Each piece connects with a large U-shaped clamp that fits into hardwood feet. It requires no tools but does involve lifting and aligning heavy components. Rearranging a large sectional can be a workout.
How does the Koala Torquay assemble?
Koala is known for its tool-free assembly. The pieces typically slot or click together quickly and easily, making the initial setup much faster and simpler than a Sactional's first assembly.
Which sofa is more comfortable?
Comfort is subjective. If you prefer a deep, soft, sink-in sofa you can curl up on for hours, the Lovesac Sactional (especially with deep seats) is likely your winner. If you prefer a slightly firmer, more supportive feel with a more upright posture, you will likely find the Koala Torquay more comfortable.
Are both brands sustainable?
Yes, both brands have a strong focus on sustainability. Lovesac designs for longevity to reduce furniture waste and uses fabric made from recycled plastic bottles. Koala uses FSC-certified timber and partners with environmental organizations, focusing on responsible sourcing and manufacturing.
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