Murphy Bed vs Sofa Bed: Comfort, Setup, and Space Compared

When looking for space-saving furniture, Murphy beds and sofa beds often come up as top recommendations. 

At first glance, both seem like practical solutions for small apartments or multifunctional rooms. However, despite their similar goals, they offer distinct features and serve different purposes. 

This guide covers:

• The 9 most important differences between murphy beds and sofa beds

• Installation, comfort, and space requirements for each

• Expert tips to help you choose the best solution

Curious which option will transform your space? Let’s get into the details and help you decide.

P.S. Looking for furniture that truly fits your lifestyle? 

At Archic Furniture we bring together the best in space-saving design, expert craftsmanship, and timeless style. From innovative cabinet beds to modern sofa beds, every piece is handpicked for quality, durability, and sustainability. 

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Murphy Bed vs Sofa Bed – Key Differences at a Glance

9 Differences Between Murphy Bed and Sofa Bed

Choosing between a murphy bed and a sofa bed means weighing more than just looks. Below, we break down the nine most important differences, so you can match the right solution to your space, comfort, and style needs. Each section includes expert tips to help you decide.

1. Terminology: Cabinet Bed vs Sleeper Sofa

Understanding the terminology is the first step to making an informed choice.

• Murphy beds (often called cabinet beds or wall beds) refer to beds that fold up into a cabinet or console when not in use. The “cabinet” style is especially popular for its freestanding, furniture-like look.

• Sofa beds are also known as sleeper sofas or convertible sofas. They function as a regular sofa and convert into a bed by pulling out or folding down the sleeping surface.

2. Mounting and Installation

Installation is a major factor for renters, busy homeowners, and anyone who prefers a hassle-free setup. Before you buy, it’s worth considering not just the initial install, but how easy it will be to move, adjust, or remove your furniture in the future.

• Murphy beds (cabinet style) are freestanding and require no wall mounting or drilling. They typically arrive in apartment-friendly packaging and can be assembled with just a screwdriver; no studs, anchors, or contractors needed. This makes them ideal for renters or those who move frequently.

• Sofa beds require no installation beyond basic assembly (attaching legs or arms), and no tools are usually needed beyond what’s provided in the box.

If you’re looking for a Murphy bed that’s especially easy to install and move, our Arason Creden-ZzZ Brussels Style Murphy Bed is a standout for renters and homeowners alike. 

This freestanding unit requires no wall mounting or drilling; just basic assembly with a screwdriver. Its flip-top hinges allow the top to open without removing items from the surface, and the entire cabinet measures 64" wide, 23" deep, and 43" high, opening to a full queen-size Murphy bed in seconds.

3. Setup Time and Ease of Use

How quickly you can convert your space from living area to a bedroom matters; especially when guests arrive unexpectedly or you’re winding down after a long day. Evaluating ease of use ensures you’ll actually enjoy the flexibility your furniture promises, rather than dreading the nightly routine.

• Murphy beds (cabinet style) are designed for fast, simple setup. Most open in 30–60 seconds with a smooth, fold-out mechanism. 

• Sofa beds require pulling out the mattress or folding down the backrest. This process can take 1–2 minutes and may require some lifting, especially with larger or heavier models.

For those who value effortless daily transformation, the Night and Day Furniture Queen Murphy Bed is designed for true convenience. It arrives in apartment-friendly packaging and can be fully assembled in just a few minutes; no tools or heavy lifting required. 

When closed, it occupies only 10 square feet (64.1"W x 26.4"D x 36.6"H), and it opens to a generous 80.3" length, providing a queen-size sleeping surface in under a minute.

4. Mattress Type and Comfort

The type of mattress included with your space-saving bed has a huge impact on sleep quality. Murphy beds and sofa beds differ not just in mattress thickness, but also in the materials and mechanisms that support them.

• Murphy beds almost always include a tri-fold, 6–8” memory foam mattress (can be thicker than this, too). This provides a true bed-like feel, with no bars, springs, or uneven surfaces. 

• Sofa beds use either a built-in thinner mattress or the sofa cushions themselves. This can mean less support and more noticeable seams or bars, which may be uncomfortable for some. 

If you prefer a sofa bed that balances style with comfort, our Whiteline Modern Living Giovanni Sofa Bed offers a chic, modern design with practical comfort. 

Upholstered in your choice of white or gray faux leather, it features a smooth pull-out mechanism and stainless steel silver legs. The sofa measures 87" wide, 36" deep, and 35" high, providing ample seating by day and a supportive sleeping surface by night; ideal for small apartments or guest rooms.

Read Next: Are Murphy Beds Comfortable? 7 Key Facts to Consider

5. Floor Space Requirement

Space-saving is the main reason people choose these beds, but each option uses space differently. 

• Murphy beds (cabinet style) have a compact footprint when closed; often just 10 square feet. They require clear floor space in front to open fully (for example, the Night and Day Furniture Murphy Cabinet Bed Cube measures 64.1"W x 26.4"D x 36.6"H closed, and opens to 80.3” long).

• Sofa beds need space for the sofa itself and additional room in front to pull out the mattress. The Whiteline Modern Living Bursa Sofa Bed, for example, measures W90 D37 H30 as a sofa, so you’ll need to plan for both seating and sleeping configurations.

Quick Tips:

• Murphy beds: Best for rooms where you can dedicate wall space and want to maximize floor area when not in use.

• Sofa beds: Ideal for living rooms or offices where you need daily seating and occasional sleeping.

 6. Daily Use and Functionality

Think beyond just sleeping; how will your new bed function day-to-day? Some options double as stylish cabinets or consoles, while others provide comfortable seating for movie nights or work-from-home days.

• Murphy beds function as a cabinet or console when closed. They’re not designed for sitting, but they blend seamlessly into the room as a stylish storage piece. 

• Sofa beds are everyday sofas, providing comfortable seating and lounging space. When needed, they convert into a bed for guests.

For those who need a sofa that transitions seamlessly from day to night, Archic Furniture’s Whiteline Modern Living Bursa Sofa Bed is perfect for modern living rooms or offices, offering both comfort and versatility. 

Available in dark or light gray linen, it measures 90" wide, 37" deep, and 30" high, and includes three decorative pillows in white feather, red velvet, and black linen. Its matte black powder-coated metal legs and 17" seat height make it a stylish, practical choice for everyday lounging and easy guest accommodations.

7. Storage Features

Not all space-saving beds offer built-in storage, so it’s important to weigh this feature if tidiness and convenience matter to you.

• Murphy beds (cabinet style) often include built-in storage for bedding, pillows, or essentials. The Night and Day Furniture Murphy Bed, for example, features a hidden compartment for linens; ideal for small apartments or guest rooms.

• Sofa beds rarely include dedicated storage, so you’ll need to find another spot for bedding and pillows.

8. Design and Style Options

Your furniture should reflect your personal taste and complement your home’s decor. Murphy beds and sofa beds come in a variety of finishes, fabrics, and silhouettes, each offering a different aesthetic. 

• Murphy beds (cabinet style) are available in a variety of wood finishes and designs, from modern to traditional. The Arason Creden-ZzZ Brussels Style, for example, features dramatic circular molding inspired by 18th-century European design and comes in White, Ash, and Charcoal finishes.

• Sofa beds offer even more variety, with options in fabric, faux leather, and a range of colors and silhouettes. The Giovanni Sofa Bed, for instance, is available in white or gray faux leather for a contemporary look, while the Bursa Sofa Bed offers a softer linen finish.

9. Mobility and Flexibility

Whether you’re planning a move, redecorating, or simply want the option to rearrange, the mobility and flexibility of your bed matter. Understanding the weight, assembly requirements, and ease of repositioning will help you invest in a piece that adapts as your needs evolve.

• Murphy beds (cabinet style) are freestanding and can be moved if needed, though they are heavier than most sofas. No wall damage means you can reposition or take it with you when you move.

• Sofa beds are also heavy but can be repositioned within a room or moved to a new space with help.

Looking for furniture that adapts as your needs change? Archic Furniture’s expert team helps you select pieces that offer long-term flexibility, whether you’re moving, redecorating, or planning for guests. With showrooms in California and Michigan and 25 distribution centers nationwide, fast delivery and hands-on support are always within reach.

Murphy Bed vs Sofa Bed: Which Is Right for You?

Choosing between a murphy bed and a sofa bed comes down to your unique space, comfort, and style needs. Murphy beds excel in sleep quality, space-saving design, and built-in storage, while sofa beds offer everyday seating and easy guest accommodations. 

• Want a true bed for guests and minimal setup? Try the Night and Day Furniture Murphy Cabinet Bed Cube for its comfort, easy installation, and hidden storage.

• Need a sofa that doubles as a guest bed for daily use? The Whiteline Modern Living Giovanni Sofa Bed is a sophisticated, ergonomic choice for modern living rooms.

Still unsure which to choose? Archic Furniture is your go-to resource for expertly curated, space-maximizing furniture. With a focus on craftsmanship, sustainability, and customer care, Archic Furniture makes it easy to shop with confidence; online or in-store. Ready to upgrade your space? Explore the full collection or connect with a design expert for personalized recommendations.

Read Next:

• 8 Key Difference Between Wall Bed vs Murphy Bed (Explained)

• 5 Best Murphy Beds With Desks for Smarter, Flexible Living