Murphy Bed Vs. Sofa Bed: A Comparison Guide

Cramped living quarters? Stop choosing between sleep and space.
Living in a small apartment or multi-use room can feel like a constant game of Tetris. Beds take up space. Sofas don’t offer real comfort. You’re stuck sacrificing either functionality or a good night’s sleep.

You’ve tried squeezing in a sofa bed for guests, but let’s face it—those metal bars and thin cushions are less than dreamy. And sleeping on one long-term? Your back would rather not. But you also can’t fit a full bed in your living room. What now?

Enter the space-saving showdown: Murphy bed vs. sofa bed. One folds up into the wall. The other folds out from your couch. Both claim to save valuable floor space—but only one might be perfect for you.

Find out which one truly delivers comfort, convenience, and style—and why a modern Murphy bed like The Lori Bed could be your best bet.

What Is a Murphy Bed?

A Murphy bed—or a wall bed—is not your regular bed. It’s a real bed that folds up vertically into a cabinet, desk, or shelf mounted to the wall. During the day, it stays hidden, leaving your space open for work, play, or relaxation.

Key Features:

Mounted to the wall or floor
Folds vertically when not in use
Uses a regular mattress (your back will thank you)
Choose between Twin and Queen Murphy beds – and vertical or horizontal Murphy bed
Often includes built-in shelves or desk space
Murphy beds are the go-to for smart sleepers who don’t want to sacrifice comfort for space. Whether you’re transforming a guest room or optimizing a studio apartment, Murphy beds help you do more with less.

What Is a Sofa Bed?

A sofa bed, or sleeper sofa, is a couch that converts into a bed, offering an additional sleeping space. The mattress is folded and hidden inside the sofa base, and you simply pull it out when it’s time to sleep.

Key Features:

Functions as a couch during the day
Pulls out into a bed at night
Comes in various sizes (Full and Queen are most common)
Mattresses are usually thinner or foldable
No installation required
Sofa beds are a practical option for occasional guests and people who want a two-in-one piece of furniture. Need a couch and a bed in a single item? Sofa beds do that.
Murphy Bed vs. Sofa Bed: Comparison Table

Which One Is More Comfortable?

Murphy beds win this one hands down. A quality Murphy bed lets you use the same kind of mattress you’d put in a standard bed frame.
Sofa beds? Not so much. Most come with 4-inch-thick foam or spring mattresses that feel like you’re sleeping on an iron bench with a yoga mat on top.
If sleep quality matters, especially for long-term use, a Murphy bed is the clear winner.

When Should You Choose a Murphy Bed?

You’re a Murphy bed person if:
You’re using the bed daily
You value real comfort and support
You want to keep your room clutter-free
You own your home, or can install furniture
You want a sleek, modern aesthetic
Bonus: If you love a minimalist, multifunctional space, Murphy beds (especially The Lori Bed) are aesthetic goals.

Real-Life Use Cases

You want your living room to double as a guest room
Choose: Sofa bed—no rearranging, no hassle.
You’re turning a home office into a guest bedroom
Choose: Murphy bed—it hides away when not in use.
You’re sleeping on it every night
Choose: Murphy bed, without a doubt.
You’re furnishing a temporary apartment
Choose: Sofa bed—cheap, functional, and movable.

FAQs

Which is more comfortable for nightly use?
The Murphy bed system. A real mattress means real support. Sofa beds typically have thin, foldable mattresses that wear down quickly.
Can a Murphy bed be used as a couch too?
Some Murphy bed frames come with built-in sofas or seating when upright—but it’s not the same as a full sofa bed. If you want a dedicated couch, sofa beds have the edge.
Do Murphy beds work in small apartments?
Yes! They’re the ideal space-saving solution for small spaces. Especially designs like The Lori Bed, which fold up neatly and don’t require bulky hardware.

What’s easier to move?

Sofa beds are easier to move—but also heavier than they look. Murphy beds, once installed, are meant to stay put. The Lori Bed, however, is a lot easier to disassemble and transport.
What’s the price difference?
Sofa beds range from $300 to $1,500. Murphy beds usually start around $1,000 and go up from there, especially for models with shelving or desks. The Lori Bed is priced competitively and is worth every penny.
Parting Thoughts
When it comes to Murphy bed vs. sofa bed, it’s not just about saving space—it’s about how you want to live in that space. Sofa beds are quick fixes. Murphy wall beds are smart, stylish upgrades that transform how you use your home.
If you want the best of both worlds—comfort, design, and functionality—a Murphy bed is the way to go. And when it comes to smart design and effortless style, The Lori Bed is your ultimate pick. No wall mounting, no fuss, just more room to live your life.
So go ahead—fold, flip, and fall asleep in style.