Choosing between a sofa bed and a futon isn't always easy. These two types of beds offer distinct advantages, depending on your space, budget, and comfort needs. Whether you're furnishing a studio apartment or a guest room, this guide will help you make the right choice.
🔹 The convertible sofa: comfort and design combined
What is a convertible sofa?
A convertible sofa , also called a sofa bed , is first and foremost a real sofa that transforms into a bed thanks to an integrated opening system. This can be a quick-opening mechanism , a drawer system , or a click-clack mechanism .
The advantages
The convertible sofa is distinguished by:
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Its comfort : it often has a real mattress , ideal for everyday sleeping.
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Its aesthetics : it looks like a real sofa and fits perfectly into a living room.
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Its versatility : perfect for those who want a two-in-one piece of furniture.
The disadvantages
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Its size : heavier and bulkier than a BZ sofa bed, it requires more space.
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Its price : generally higher, especially for high-end models.
🔹 The BZ sofa bed: the space-saving solution
What is a BZ?
The BZ is a folding sofa bed whose mattress folds into a “Z” shape. It opens perpendicularly to the wall, unlike the click-clack sofa, and offers a simple and quick sleeping solution.
The advantages
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Space saving : ideal for small spaces such as studios or guest rooms.
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Easy to open : the BZ unfolds in seconds.
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Affordable price : more economical than most convertibles.
The disadvantages
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Uneven comfort : the mattress folded in three can create less comfortable areas.
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More basic aesthetics : it is often less stylish than a convertible sofa.
🔹 Convertible sofa or BZ: how to choose according to your needs?
For everyday sleeping
If you sleep on it every night, a sofa bed is the best option. Thanks to its real mattress and stable mechanism , it offers comfort comparable to a regular bed.
For an extra bed
The BZ is perfect for occasional use: it unfolds quickly and stores easily, ideal for accommodating guests.
For small spaces
The BZ sofa bed is the champion of space saving. Compact and lightweight, it fits into the narrowest corners while offering a comfortable extra bed.
For a designer living room
The convertible sofa is the obvious choice. Its modern lines and variety of finishes (fabric, velvet, leather, etc.) make it a centerpiece of the living room.
🔹 Our recommendation
The choice depends on your lifestyle:
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If you want real everyday comfort , opt for a convertible sofa .
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If you are looking for a practical and economical extra bed , opt for a BZ .
Before buying, try both models in store: mattress comfort and ease of opening can vary greatly from one brand to another.
🛋️ Conclusion
The convertible sofa is appealing for its comfort and style, while the futon remains unbeatable in terms of practicality and space saving. Your choice will therefore depend on the available space, how often you'll use it, and the style you want to create in your home.
