How to choose a reclining sectional
A reclining sectional is a sectional couch with one or more built-in recliners, so you get the seating of a large sofa and the comfort of a recliner in one piece. Before you pick a style, settle four things: power or manual, how many seats should recline, how much room you have behind and in front of it, and which features you will actually use.
Power vs. manual reclining sectionals
- Power reclining sectionals move at the touch of a button and stop at any angle. Many add a power adjustable headrest and USB charging. Each power piece needs an outlet within reach, so check where yours are before you decide on a layout.
- Manual reclining sectionals use a lever or pull tab. They need no outlet, cost less, and can go anywhere in the room, but they offer fewer positions.
How many seats recline?
This surprises a lot of shoppers: on most sectionals, not every seat reclines. The end seats are usually the recliners, while corner wedges and armless middle seats are often fixed. If you want a couch with recliners on both ends, or three or more reclining seats, check the configuration details on the product page. Modular reclining sectionals let you add armless recliners to get exactly the number you want.
Space and wall clearance
- A standard recliner needs open space behind it to tilt back. Zero wall designs slide forward as they recline, so they can sit just a few inches from the wall.
- Allow room in front as well. A fully extended footrest adds roughly a foot and a half to two feet to the depth of the seat, so place your coffee table accordingly.
- Measure both walls against the width and depth listed for each configuration, and leave 30 to 36 inches for walkways.
- Sectionals ship in separate pieces, which makes doorways and stairs far easier than with a one-piece reclining sofa.
Features worth having
Storage consoles with cup holders turn a sectional into home theater seating. A reclining sectional with chaise gives one person a place to stretch out without using a recliner, and a press-back chaise reclines as well. For upholstery, most of our reclining sectionals come in durable performance fabric or soft leather-look material, which are easier to care for than you might expect with kids and pets. If you want real leather, check the materials on each product page and browse our leather sectionals.
Popular reclining sectionals
Need something smaller? See our reclining sofas, reclining loveseats, and recliners. Shopping by shape? Browse L shaped sectionals, U shaped sectionals, or all sectional sofas.
Reclining sectional FAQ
How much does a sectional with recliners cost?
Our reclining sectionals typically run from about $800 for a compact configuration to around $5,000 for large power layouts with multiple recliners and consoles. Most three-piece power reclining sectionals fall between $1,000 and $2,000 on sale.
Do all the seats on a reclining sectional recline?
Usually not. The end seats typically recline, while corner and armless middle seats are often stationary. The product page lists exactly which seats recline in each configuration.
Does a power reclining sectional need to be plugged in?
Yes. Each power reclining piece connects to a standard wall outlet. Plan your layout around outlet locations, or use a furniture-rated extension cord routed under the sectional.
How far from the wall does a reclining sectional need to be?
It depends on the mechanism. Zero wall recliners need only a few inches, while standard recliners need more open space behind them. Check the product details for the specific clearance.
Is a power or manual reclining sectional better?
Power is more comfortable and easier to use, especially for anyone with limited strength or mobility, and it stops at any angle. Manual costs less and needs no outlet. If your budget and outlets allow it, most shoppers prefer power.
Can I get a reclining sectional for a small living room?
Yes. Look for a two-piece or three-piece reclining sectional, ideally with a zero wall mechanism so it can sit close to the wall. Compare the listed dimensions with your room, including the extra depth needed when the footrests are open.
How long does delivery take?
Every product shows a live estimated arrival window based on current inventory, and backordered items are clearly labeled. In-stock reclining sectionals ship straight from the manufacturer's distribution center, so they arrive much faster than a made-to-order sofa.
Which brands do you carry, and why are the prices lower?
Our reclining sectionals come from Signature Design by Ashley and Benchcraft. We source directly from the manufacturer and do not run showrooms or warehouses, which keeps our overhead, and our prices, low.