:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TheresaHolland_Headshot_2021-f9bc5eec829e46bb9191615c22852e07.jpeg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Camryn-Rabideau-4e069cad1b474d94931269b1e8317dce.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/estep1-670b90841fa446c1b2172fa053a5fe19.jpeg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/SPR-andover-mills-leni-manual-standard-recliner-33.5in-wide-taupe-jay-wilde-photo-01-ffd87b9fb08542a6b81575f84fdedcb4.jpg)
The Spruce / Jay Wilde
If you want to sit back and relax while watching TV, reading, or just cozying up at home, a recliner is where it's at. "Recliners come in many shapes, sizes, and styles and can seamlessly blend into your living room space in a sleek way," says Carlie Rice, social media manager at the online design studio Havenly. With more customization compared to your average chair, adding a recliner into your living space allows you to lean back, put your feet up, and enjoy a wealth of comfort-enhancing features. There’s a reason they’re a favorite furniture addition beyond sofas and accent chairs!
With this in mind, we researched comfortable, high-quality options with standout features. Scroll down to discover more of the best recliners you can shop.
Best Overall
Pottery Barn PB Wingback Glider & Recliner
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/pottery-barn-pb-wingback-glider-recliner-19b70d3b37ea4663baf2ad5036a27594.jpg)
Pottery Barn
Recliner-swivel hybrid
Over 100 upholstery options
Extra-thick padding
Available with power or manual mechanisms
Expensive
Takes weeks to ship
In our opinion, the best recliner comes from Pottery Barn. The Wingback Glider & Recliner is the perfect balance of comfort, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. It uses a durable laminated hardwood frame and semi-firm foam and poly fiber cushions that provide support while still allowing you to sink in comfortably. You can choose from over 100 upholstery options, including performance fabrics, suede, velvet, chenille, and bouclé. With scroll arms and a classic wingback, the attractive design doesn't look like your typical recliner.
This armchair is available as a standard push-back (manual) recliner or a power recliner that plugs into the wall and has a control button hidden on the side. It also features a swivel mechanism that spins a full 360 degrees in both directions.
Depending on the upholstery you choose and whether you get the manual or power version, this chair can run pretty expensive in price (and choosing the power option is more expensive). Also, it'll take weeks to ship since it's made to order. However, Pottery Barn offers white-glove delivery, meaning it'll arrive fully assembled, unboxed on-site, then placed in your room of choice.
Price at time of publish: Starts at $1,549
Dimensions: 34 x 37 x 41 inches | Weight: 110 pounds | Material: Fabric, wood, foam, poly fiber | Type: Power and manual
Best Budget
BestMassage Recliner Chair
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/bestmassage-black-recliner-chair-31954bea8f294aeaaef7b56876657746.jpg)
Amazon
Affordable
Built-in massager with multiple modes
Several colors available
Assembly required
Requires strength to recline
On a budget? The BestMassage Recliner Chair might be your best bet. This comfortable seat has a solid wood frame and smooth, easy-to-clean faux leather or fabric upholstery in your choice of several colors ranging from black to brown to beige. The cushions are plush yet supportive, and there's a built-in back massage with eight modes and three intensity levels for ultimate relaxation.
As for the reclining mechanism, the backrest pushes back manually, and the footrest extends out. That said, you'll need some serious strength to recline this chair; users note that it’s not the easiest to lean back. Additionally, to utilize the massage functionality, you’ll need to plug the chair into a wall outlet. This recliner calls for at-home assembly, but all you have to do is slide on the backrest and screw in the legs—no tools needed. All things considered, its low price makes it a total steal.
Price at time of publish: $160
Dimensions: 39 x 33 x 24 inches | Weight: 62 pounds | Material: Faux leather or fabric, solid wood | Type: Manual/massage
Best Splurge
West Elm Harris Leather Power Recliner
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/west-elm-harris-leather-power-recliner-a0eb71dbe98745e3b296f638f0aa3fea.jpg)
West Elm
Top-grain leather upholstery
Kiln-dried frame with reinforced joinery
Built-in USB port
Effortless powered recline functionality
Expensive
Takes weeks to ship
If you're willing to spend a bit more on a recliner that's not only incredibly comfortable but also aesthetically pleasing, West Elm has you covered. The Harris Recliner has a kiln-dried hardwood frame with reinforced joinery to ensure long-lasting durability that resists cracking and warping. It boasts top-grain, hand-finished leather upholstery in your choice of four neutral hues and ultra-plush foam cushions with sinuous springs and webbing for extra support.
This power recliner plugs into a wall and moves to your preferred angle with the push of a button while the footrest extends outward. It also has a built-in USB port, so you can keep your phone or tablet charged nearby. Other than the expensive price tag, we should note most leather colors are made to order and may take weeks to ship. But West Elm offers white-glove delivery, so it'll arrive fully assembled and be placed in your room of choice.
Price at time of publish: Starts at $1,949
Dimensions: 39 x 37.5 x 31.5 inches | Weight: 130 pounds | Material: Leather, foam, feather, wood | Type: Power
Best Power
Signature by Ashley Design Card Player Dual Power Recliner
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/signature-design-by-ashley-card-player-modern-faux-leather-power-recliner-fdc53eceadd046fb846be9c8550ab526.jpg)
Amazon
Built-in air massage system
Heating feature
Zero-gravity footrest
High-resiliency foam cushions
Expensive
Assembly required
For those partial to power recliners, we recommend the Card Player Recliner from Ashley Furniture. This armchair has a wood frame, high-resiliency foam cushions wrapped in fluffy poly fibers, and smooth faux leather upholstery in camel or deep smokey gray. Not only does it recline to your desired lounging angle with one-touch controls, but the zero gravity footrest also takes your comfort to the next level.
And that's not all. This innovative recliner doubles as a massage chair, with three modes and an automatic shut-off feature. It also heats up to keep you cozy while helping your muscles relax. Just a heads up, though: You'll need to put it together at home. Luckily, assembly is pretty simple and should only take about 15 minutes. While the price does run on the higher side, if this recliner is within your budget, you won't be disappointed with all of its extra perks and features.
Price at time of publish: $1,703
Dimensions: 43 x 39 x 37 inches | Weight: 139 pounds | Material: Faux leather, wood, foam, poly fiber | Type: Power
Best Manual
Andover Mills Leni Recliner
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/andover-mills-leni-recliner-a703c1ef6bad4104b13538a5a19da635.jpg)
Wayfair
Reasonably priced
No levers or buttons
Over 30 upholstery colors and patterns
Assembly required
Manual recliners are often more affordable than their electric counterparts, and the Andover Mills Leni Recliner is under $400. This budget-friendly chair is a great option if you don't mind the push-back mechanism. Just lean back with your body weight to recline the backrest while the footrest extends forward—no levers or buttons needed.
This armchair has a wood frame, thick cushions on the seat and backrest, subtle scroll arms, and fabric upholstery in over 30 colors and designs. We're talking versatile neutrals, statement shades, and tasteful patterns that add interest to any space. The upholstery is also easy to vacuum and spot-clean as needed. You'll have to assemble the Leni Recliner at home, but all you need to do is slide the backrest into place and attach the legs.
Price at time of publish: $400
Dimensions: 41.5 x 36 x 33.5 inches | Weight: 66 pounds | Material: Fabric, foam, wood | Type: Manual
Best for Watching TV
Abbyson Living Thomas Power Faux Leather Recliner
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/abbyson-living-thomas-power-faux-leather-recliner-ee09c243740d413397b87abab70e3fe9.jpg)
Amazon
Built-in cup holder and tray
Lighted USB port
Arrives fully assembled
Noisy reclining mechanism
Prone to fading
If you like to recline while watching TV and movies at home with all of your favorite creature comforts nearby, this one's for you. The Abbyson Living Thomas Recliner is more than just a chair that reclines back. It includes a built-in cup holder on one side and a rotating tray on the other, giving you designated spots where you can place snacks, drinks, a book, your phone, or a tablet. There's also hidden storage in each armrest, with a lighted USB port inside one and a power button that controls the recline mechanism in the other.
The Thomas is also built for the long haul, with an extra-durable and crack-resistant kiln-dried wood frame. It flaunts cloud-like foam cushions that provide support while allowing you to sink in, and the faux leather upholstery is easy to wipe clean. Though the upholstery looks and feels like genuine leather, it can be prone to fading, especially when placed near a window. The only other thing to note is the power reclining function is a little noisy, but it quickly gets into position.
Price at time of publish: $899
Dimensions: 41.5 x 37 x 36 inches | Weight: 108 pounds | Material: Faux leather, foam, wood | Type: Power
Best for Sleeping
Sealy Ariana Posturepedic Motion Recliner
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/sealy-posturepedic-ariana-motion-recliner-c02666ab2f314b69baa49e929d468aaa.jpg)
Sealy
Posturepedic cushions
Relieves pressure points
Built-in USB port
Assembly required
Limited upholstery choices
Leave it to Sealy to manufacture a chair comfortable enough to sleep in. The Ariana Motion Recliner features the brand's signature Posturepedic mattress technology, meaning it provides whole-body support and stability while helping to relieve pressure points. With foam-encased pocket coils embedded into the cushions, this ergonomic armchair offers targeted support and props up your head and neck while still allowing you to relax completely.
Side-mounted controls and a user-friendly power reclining function make it easy to set it to your preferred angle without lifting a muscle. There's even a built-in USB port for charging your devices. We also appreciate that the Ariana has a generous 350-pound weight capacity. You'll have to assemble it at home, but all you have to do is attach the back to the base. Additionally, keep in mind that the color and fabric choices are limited, and black is really your only option–but it’s a classic color that works for many rooms.
Price at time of publish: $1,199
Dimensions: 40.2 x 37.8 x 37 inches | Weight: 112.4 pounds | Material: Faux leather, foam, wood | Type: Power
Best Glider
Babyletto Sigi Electronic Recliner and Glider
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/babyletto-sigi-electronic-recliner-and-glider-ec22b9fb2de747b280ae3d6552fbe256.jpg)
Amazon
Quiet reclining mechanism
Eco-friendly materials
Water-repellent and stain-resistant upholstery
Pricey
Partial assembly required
Babyletto is technically a nursery brand, but it makes some really nice recliners with versatile designs that could definitely work in a living room, office, bedroom, studio, or reading nook. The Sigi is a recliner-glider hybrid, meaning it not only extends back to various angles but also rocks (or glides) smoothly back and forth. With the touch of a button, you can lower the back and headrest and raise the footrest—and the adjustment makes virtually no noise.
This modern armchair has a wood frame and base sourced from FSC forests (certified by the Forest Stewardship Council). The foam cushions are also CertiPUR-US certified for chemical safety, and the upholstery is made of recycled plastic bottles. What's more, the water-repellent fabric resists stains and is super easy to clean in the event of a spill. Partial assembly is required, but it'll be a fast process, and you won't need any tools. Upwards of $1,000 is a lot for a recliner, but Babyletto makes reliable products that hold up under heavy daily use.
Price at time of publish: $1,199
Dimensions: 42 x 39 x 30.5 inches | Weight: 112 pounds | Material: Fabric, foam, wood | Type: Power
Best Sofa
Birch Lane Logan 83'' Upholstered Reclining Sofa
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/winston-porter-logan-83-square-arm-reclining-sofa-ae4ae132ff7846d59cdfb567396bacc4.jpg)
Wayfair
Over 120 upholstery options
Throw pillows included
Arrives fully assembled
Seat backs don't move
With a reclining sofa, you and your family won't have to fight over who gets the best seat in the house. The Winston Porter Logan Sofa looks like your typical three-seat couch, but the left and right seats have footrests that extend out. (The backrests don't technically lower down, but this is pretty standard for reclining sofas, plus it allows you to place it up against a wall.) It’s like getting a cozy couch and two reclining chairs for your living room in one piece of furniture.
This contemporary piece is not too small nor too large, the perfect size for most living rooms. Boasting a 750-pound weight capacity, it sits on a sturdy wood kiln-dried wood frame with mortise-and-tenon joinery. It's available in nearly 120 upholstery materials, including cotton, rayon, polyester, stain-resistant performance fabrics, and fade-proof Sunbrella fabrics, and comes with two matching throw pillows. You can also choose from three nailhead finishes. In the end, we think the price is pretty reasonable for such a high-quality, versatile couch.
Price at time of publish: $2,873
Dimensions: 83 x 43 x 35 inches | Weight: 224 pounds | Material: Fabric, foam, wood | Type: Power
Overall, we like Pottery Barn's PB Wingback Glider & Recliner. This recliner-swivel hybrid has a notably durable hardwood frame and comes in over 100 upholstery options, plus your choice of a power or manual recline function. For those on a budget, we recommend the BestMassage Massage Recliner Chair. And if you're open to shelling out more for the perfect recliner (particularly one that doesn't look like a typical recliner), West Elm's Harris Leather Power Recliner is the way to go.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Leonie-Manual-Recliner-Chair-1-09aa34e5a1b6404091d6e85e917406c1.jpg)
What to Look For When Buying a Recliner
Size
The first thing to consider when buying a recliner is the size. Most recliners are armchairs, like the Pottery Barn PB Wingback Glider & Recliner, though you'll also find loveseats and reclining sofas, like the Winston Porter Logan Power Reclining Sofa. In any case, be sure to carefully measure your space and check the dimensions before ordering anything.
Material
You'll also want to pay attention to the material, which affects both the look and durability. High-quality recliners often have solid hardwood frames, and it’s even better if the wood is kiln-dried, as with the West Elm Harris Leather Power Recliner. Kiln-dried frames tend to hold up better and offer increased longevity.
Recliners come in a range of upholstery materials, including genuine leather, faux leather, and various fabrics. Genuine leather and faux leather are generally easy to clean, but many stain-resistant performance fabrics are available too.
Design
The style of the chair or sofa matters as well. While many have an unmistakable "recliner" look, this isn't always the case. "Recliners should feel like any other accent chair," says Carlie Rice, social media manager at the online design studio Havenly. This means they should complement the rest of your furniture and call back other decor pieces throughout your space.
For instance, the Babyletto Sigi Electronic Recliner and Glider has an attractive, versatile appearance that could be placed in a living room, family room, or bedroom without sticking out like a sore thumb.
Comfort and Support
What is a recliner for if not for comfort? This might seem like a given, but a comfortable, supportive design is key when buying this type of chair. "I'd start by asking yourself why you want a recliner to begin with," says Rice. "Are you trying to make your reading nook extra comfy? Does your partner love having their chair to watch sports?"
Thinking about how you'll use the seat can help you figure out which one is best for your needs. For example, if you tend to fall asleep while watching TV, an ergonomic design like the Sealy Posturepedic Ariana Motion Recliner might be your best bet.
Standout Features
Manual vs. Electric
When browsing options, pay attention to whether the recliner uses a power mechanism or is pushed back manually. Manual chairs like the Andover Mills Leni Recliner are usually available at accessible price points and are more likely to look like regular furniture. On the other hand, power models like the Signature by Ashley Design Card Player Dual Power Recliner are often a little pricer and must be plugged into the wall, but they're also generally easier to use and more luxurious.
Massage Options
Some recliners have built-in massagers to enhance your relaxation experience even further. For instance, the BestMassage Recliner Chair has five massage modes and three intensity levels. Then there's the Card Player Dual Power Recliner, which not only massages your back but also offers soothing heat therapy.
Accessories
To provide the ultimate lounging experience while minimizing your need to get up, many recliners have built-in accessories. This may include a USB charging port, cup holders, a swivel tray, hidden storage, a remote pocket, or all of the above.
-
What is the best recliner material?
The best recliner material is something easy to clean, as people often eat and drink while sitting in them. In many cases, this is leather or faux leather, which are both a breeze to wipe down as needed. If you prefer fabric, look for a water-repellent or stain-resistant performance material that can easily be vacuumed and spot-cleaned.
-
How should a recliner fit your body?
When sitting in a recliner, your head should be relaxed onto the headrest, with your neck aligned with your spine. Since sitting at a 90-degree angle can place too much pressure on your back, leaning back at roughly 135 degrees is ideal. Most importantly, no part of your body should feel uncomfortable or strained.
-
How long should a reclining chair last?
A high-quality reclining chair should last anywhere from about seven to 15 years. To ensure a longer lifespan, look for something with a kiln-dried wood frame, as this will prevent cracking and moisture damage. As for the upholstery, genuine leather will generally hold up the longest. But a reliable reclining mechanism matters just as much as the materials, so investing in a higher-end model might be worthwhile.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Theresa Holland is a freelance commerce writer and product reviewer. For this article, she interviewed Carlie Rice, social media manager at the online design studio Havenly, who provided insight into different recliner types and styles. After considering dozens of models from numerous brands and retailers, she narrowed it down to durable, user-friendly options with standout features and visual appeal. Holland covers furniture, textiles, home decor, and storage solutions at The Spruce. You can read more of her stories on People, Travel + Leisure, MyDomaine, and Byrdie.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/best-reclining-loveseats-4149992-fb880f8c3399431daa68959dfbca7272.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/SPR-HOME-7-best-reclining-sofas-4171553-Revised-01-8ea5309f96a94f7e865d034030aa1610.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/SPR-HOME-8-best-leather-sofas-2021-4164593-01-411ae0ec5b6e45928f74822cb809df09.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Best-Teak-Outdoor-Furniture-SPR-tout-3b49e79fd77541f3a6ab531645333822.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/best-modular-sofas-tout-5c7454e912264d9aace50dfe8a73a4c4.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/SPR-HOME-8-best-reading-chairs-2021-4689441-01-4dddc5fc4d1e4fd6844cf58c1faddc6d.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Best-Couches-of-2023-for-Style-and-Comfort-tout-830096416c1e49eeae7fc20247c51dd7.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Outdoor-Recliners-SPR-tout-ab79494319aa45f398de45ac3b1a2556.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/the-8-best-budget-recliners-of-2022-tout-d86a82cd2037452db3e823426e0a2c3a.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/GettyImages-1365457049-0bdd23e6440343c7aba521c2e6715230.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/best-sofas-for-small-spaces-4160856-42daf7195981480eb619f17ab7e68f67.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/SPR-Home-v2-The-10-Best-Sectional-Sofas-of-2021-4150346-02-8d11b33ce93a4816aba90d1531f40bea.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/roundhillbestaccentchairsforsmallspaces-1bfebd7d87bf42bea3b8445f39236eac.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/best-task-chairs-tout-ec8258a1c91b4c27a44e4e9a2b426f44.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Best-couches-at-walmart-4178457-e89166ec390c48028c3c30e0366ef191.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/SPR-Home-best-outdoor-rocking-chairs-6542440-v1-ff903b7164f44dacad3ec8572ac3740f.jpg)