Are electric recliner sofas worth it? If you put your feet up most evenings, enjoy adjusting your seating position or want to recline without pulling a lever, an electric recliner can be a worthwhile investment.
But they are not right for everyone. If you mostly sit upright or rarely use a footrest, a standard sofa or manual recliner could offer better value.
In this UK buying guide, we explain how electric recliners work, explore their advantages and disadvantages, compare 12 models and show you what to check before ordering.
Ready to browse? Explore our electric recliner sofas and chairs , with free delivery to mainland England and Wales.
Quick verdict: An electric recliner is worth considering if you recline regularly and value effortless adjustment. Before buying, check the fully reclined dimensions, powered seat count, wall clearance and available plug sockets.
In this guide
- How electric recliners work
- Pros and cons
- Electric vs manual recliners
- Compare 12 products
- Product recommendations
- Fabric vs leather
- Measuring your room
- Buying checklist
- FAQs
What Is an Electric Recliner Sofa?
An electric recliner sofa has a powered mechanism that adjusts the seating position at the touch of a button. Depending on the model, it can raise the footrest, tilt the backrest or adjust both together.
Unlike many manual recliners, electric models typically allow you to stop at different positions between upright and fully reclined.
Some models also include adjustable headrests, USB charging ports, storage compartments or cup holders.
For example, the Tokyo Electric Recliner 3 Seater features electric reclining, adjustable headrests and USB and USB-C charging.
How does an electric recliner work?
- Connect the sofa to a suitable power supply.
- Press or hold the reclining control.
- The motor adjusts the seat and footrest.
- Release the control at your preferred position.
- Use the control again to return towards upright.
The exact mechanism varies by model. Some recliners move the footrest and backrest together, while others offer additional adjustments.
Are Electric Recliner Sofas Worth It?
For people who recline daily, often yes. The extra cost buys convenience and adjustable comfort that you may use every evening.
Advantages
- Easy reclining without a manual lever.
- Adjustable seating positions.
- Independent controls on selected models.
- Comfortable lounging for television and reading.
- Additional features on some sofas.
- Options for small rooms and large family spaces.
Disadvantages
- Usually more expensive than manual alternatives.
- Most require a nearby plug socket.
- Can be heavier than conventional sofas.
- Moving parts and motors may need maintenance.
- Need sufficient room to recline.
- Electrical components may have separate warranty terms.
Electric vs Manual Recliner Sofas
| Feature | Electric | Manual |
|---|---|---|
| Operation | Button or control | Lever or push-back |
| Positions | Multiple stopping points | Depends on mechanism |
| Effort | Minimal | Some physical effort |
| Electricity | Usually required | Not required |
| Typical price | Higher | Lower |
| Best for | Frequent reclining | Occasional reclining |
Browse our recliner sofa collection to compare powered and manual options.
Compare 12 Electric Recliner Sofas and Chairs
Here are 12 options from the Furniture Lovers range, covering compact sofas, three-seaters, sofa sets, large corners, armchairs and electric sofa beds.
| Model | Type | Price | Best suited to |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sorrento | 2 seater | £738 | Smaller budgets |
| Tokyo 2 Seater | 2 seater | £798 | Couples |
| Tokyo 3 Seater | 3 seater | £898 | Features under £1,000 |
| Galaxy Tech Fabric | 3 seater | £998 | Fabric upholstery |
| Galaxy Tech Leather | 3 seater | £998 | Leather-style finish |
| Toronto | 3 seater | £998 | Alternative design |
| Richmond | 3+2 set | £1,998 | Separate seating areas |
| Owen | Large corner | £1,498 | Family lounging |
| Ohio | Large corner | £2,198 | Large living rooms |
| Bicester | Large corner | £2,398 | Higher budgets |
| Seville | Armchair | £798 | Individual comfort |
| Dakota | Sofa bed | £1,298 | Guest sleeping space |
Prices are indicative catalogue prices reviewed in October 2026. Please check individual listings for current prices and availability.
12 Electric Recliners Worth Comparing
1. Sorrento Electric Recliner 2 Seater — Budget-Friendly Choice
Listed price: £738
The Sorrento is a good starting point for buyers who want electric reclining without spending more than £1,000.
At approximately 165cm wide and 105cm deep when upright, it is more compact than many three-seater designs.
Best for: couples, flats and smaller living rooms.
Check: its fully reclined depth and available space around your coffee table.
Find Sorrento Electric Recliners →
2. Tokyo Electric Recliner 2 Seater — For Couples
Listed price: £798
The Tokyo two-seater combines powered reclining with a modern, soft-textured design.
It is a useful alternative to a three-seater if you want to save floor space without giving up the reclining function.
Best for: couples who regularly lounge together.
3. Tokyo Electric Recliner 3 Seater — Our Pick for Features Under £1,000
Listed price: £898
The Tokyo Electric Recliner 3 Seater is one of the most interesting options in the range for buyers with a budget under £1,000.
Its listed features include electric reclining, adjustable headrests and USB and USB-C charging.
It measures approximately 205cm wide and 100cm deep when upright.
Best for: modern living rooms and smaller families wanting convenient everyday features.
Check: the powered seat positions and fully reclined dimensions.
4. Galaxy Tech Grey Fabric 3 Seater — For Tech Features and Fabric Comfort
Listed price: £998
The Galaxy Tech range is designed for shoppers who want more than a basic reclining mechanism.
The three-seater range includes features such as a dropdown centre table, cup holders, charging connections and entertainment-focused extras.
The grey fabric version offers a softer upholstered look.
Best for: home cinema setups and households that value built-in convenience features.
5. Galaxy Tech Grey Leather 3 Seater — For a Leather-Style Finish
Listed price: £998
The grey leather version of Galaxy Tech offers a different appearance from the fabric option while retaining the range's entertainment-focused design.
Its approximate dimensions are 212cm wide, 102cm deep and 90cm high.
Best for: shoppers who prefer the look and feel of leather-style upholstery.
Check: the exact upholstery composition on the product listing before ordering.
6. Toronto Electric Recliner 3 Seater — Another Option Under £1,000
Listed price: £998
The Toronto provides another three-seater option for shoppers comparing electric recliners below £1,000.
Available in neutral colour options, it is worth comparing with Tokyo and Galaxy Tech on seat comfort, upholstery, dimensions and features.
Best for: shoppers wanting a different design at a similar price point.
Find Toronto Electric Recliners →
7. Richmond Electric Recliner 3+2 Set — For Flexible Seating Layouts
Listed price: £1,998
A coordinated three-seater and two-seater can offer greater layout flexibility than a single corner sofa.
The Richmond range includes adjustable headrests, quilted detailing and electric reclining.
The three-seater measures approximately 207cm wide and the two-seater approximately 162cm wide.
Best for: larger living rooms where separate sofas fit the layout better than a corner.
8. Owen Electric Recliner Large Corner — For Family Lounging
Listed price: £1,498
The Owen Electric Recliner Large Corner is an option for families who want generous seating with powered reclining.
The range features cup holders, charging options and a soft fabric finish.
Its approximate corner dimensions are 255cm by 290cm, making it better suited to a larger room.
Best for: family television rooms and open-plan living areas.
Check: which seats recline, the exact corner orientation and delivery access.
Read our left-hand vs right-hand corner sofa guide before choosing a configuration.
9. Ohio Electric Recliner Large Corner — For Spacious Living Rooms
Listed price: £2,198
The Ohio is worth comparing if you have a larger living room and a higher budget for reclining furniture.
At this price point, focus on the specific features, seat dimensions, materials and powered positions rather than price alone.
Best for: larger households and spacious living rooms.
10. Bicester Electric Recliner Large Corner — Higher-Budget Option
Listed price: £2,398
The Bicester is another option for buyers looking at larger electric reclining corner sofas.
Compare it with Owen and Ohio to see whether its upholstery, dimensions and features justify the difference in price for your household.
Best for: shoppers with a larger room and higher furniture budget.
11. Seville Electric Reclining Chair — For Individual Comfort
Listed price: £798
Not everyone needs an entire reclining sofa. If only one person in your household regularly reclines, a powered armchair may make more sense.
The Seville offers an individual seating option without committing to a larger powered sofa.
Best for: reading corners, individual relaxation and smaller spaces.
View Seville Reclining Chair →
12. Dakota Electric Sofa Bed — For Lounging and Guest Sleeping
Listed price: £1,298
The Dakota Electric Sofa Bed is different from a conventional electric recliner.
Its electrically extending seats create a larger lounging and sleeping surface.
The Dakota measures approximately 238cm wide, with a seated depth of 113cm and an extended depth of 163cm.
Its listed sleeping area is approximately 188cm by 111cm.
Best for: living rooms that also need occasional guest sleeping space.
For a closer comparison, read our electric sofa beds UK buying guide .
View Dakota Electric Sofa Bed →
Which Electric Recliner Sofa Shape Should You Choose?
Start with the number of people who regularly use your living room, then consider the shape.
Two-seater electric recliners
A two-seater is often the most practical choice for couples and smaller rooms.
Compare Sorrento and Tokyo 2 Seater if you want to keep the overall width relatively compact.
Three-seater electric recliners
Three-seaters offer additional seating without requiring the floor space of a large corner sofa.
Tokyo, Galaxy Tech and Toronto are useful options to compare below £1,000.
Explore our three-seater sofas for more designs.
Electric recliner corner sofas
Corner recliners can suit larger households, but both sides of the corner need measuring.
Owen, Ohio and Bicester are worth comparing if you have a generous living room.
See our corner sofa collection for reclining and non-reclining alternatives.
Electric reclining sofa sets
A three-seater and two-seater combination can work better than a corner in rooms with separate walls or multiple walkways.
The Richmond 3+2 Set is one example.
What About Rise and Recline Chairs?
A conventional electric recliner is designed primarily for comfortable reclining.
A rise-and-recline chair also has a lifting function designed to assist the user in moving towards a standing position.
If standing up from a low seat is difficult, a dedicated rise-and-recline chair may be more appropriate.
Browse our rise and recline chairs , including the Cornwall Rise and Recline Massage Chair.
Fabric vs Leather Electric Recliner Sofas
Fabric electric recliners
Fabric upholstery often feels soft and warm, making it a popular choice for everyday lounging.
It is available in a variety of textures and colours, including grey, beige and darker shades.
The Galaxy Tech Grey Fabric 3 Seater is one option to consider.
Leather electric recliners
Leather offers a different appearance and feel. It may be easier to wipe clean, but requires appropriate care to maintain its condition.
Always check the exact material specification. Genuine leather, bonded leather, leather-look upholstery and faux leather are not identical.
Faux leather electric recliners
Faux leather offers a leather-like appearance without using the same material.
Durability and care requirements vary depending on the specific upholstery.
If you are choosing a grey recliner, see our guide to colours that go with a grey sofa .
How Much Space Does an Electric Recliner Need?
A sofa that fits perfectly while upright may take up considerably more space when reclined.
As an initial planning allowance, you might reserve around 50–70cm of extra space in front of the sofa for the footrest.
Important: this is only a general planning estimate, not a guaranteed clearance measurement. Check the exact model's fully reclined dimensions.
Five measurements to take
- Wall width: measure the space where the sofa will sit.
- Upright depth: check how far the sofa extends into the room.
- Reclined depth: allow for the footrest and backrest movement.
- Walkways: leave sufficient room to move around the sofa.
- Delivery access: measure doors, stairs, hallways and tight turns.
Do electric recliners need space behind them?
Some recliners are designed to work close to a wall, while others require more rear clearance.
Do not assume every electric recliner is a wall-hugger model.
Will the sofa fit through your door?
Check the delivery packaging dimensions as well as the assembled sofa dimensions.
Larger corner sofas may arrive in several sections, but each section still needs to fit through your property's access route.
Not Sure Your Sofa Will Fit?
Check your room and access measurements before placing an order.
Electric Recliner Sofa Buying Checklist
1. How many seats are powered?
A three-seater sofa does not necessarily have three electric reclining seats. Check which seats recline.
2. Do the seats work independently?
Independent controls are useful when people sitting together prefer different reclining positions.
3. What are the fully reclined dimensions?
Measure the complete footprint, not just the sofa's upright size.
4. Does the sofa need rear clearance?
Confirm whether the mechanism needs additional space behind the backrest.
5. Are there USB ports or adjustable headrests?
These extras can be convenient, but not every model includes them.
6. What happens during a power cut?
Powered recliners usually require electricity to change position. Some models may offer backup or manual-release arrangements, but this must be checked individually.
7. What does the guarantee cover?
Check whether the motor, electrical components, mechanism, frame and upholstery have different guarantee conditions.
8. How will the sofa be delivered?
Confirm the number of packages, access requirements and whether assembly is needed.
Delivery, Guarantees and Payment at Furniture Lovers
- Free delivery: mainland England and Wales, with no minimum spend.
- Delivery times: in-stock products generally arrive within 1–7 business days.
- Guarantees: one-year frame and springs cover, plus a five-year extended structural frame guarantee, subject to terms.
- Payment options: Klarna where offered at checkout, subject to eligibility.
- Cancellation rights: statutory 14-day cancellation rights generally apply to eligible online orders, subject to applicable conditions and exceptions.
Always review the current product listing, delivery information and guarantee terms, particularly the cover for motors and electrical mechanisms.
Electric Recliner Sofa FAQs
Are electric recliner sofas worth the extra money?
They can be worth the extra cost if you recline regularly and value effortless adjustment. If you rarely recline, a standard sofa may offer better value.
How much does an electric recliner sofa cost in the UK?
At Furniture Lovers, the electric recliner collection includes chairs from £498. Featured two-seater sofas include Sorrento at £738 and Tokyo at £798. Larger sofas and corners cost more.
Do electric recliner sofas need to be plugged in?
Most use mains electricity. Place the sofa within reach of a suitable socket and avoid trailing cables across walkways.
Do electric recliners use a lot of electricity?
The reclining motor generally operates while the seat is moving, although standby power consumption varies. Check the individual model's specification.
Can you use an electric recliner during a power cut?
You can usually continue sitting on the sofa, but powered adjustment generally requires electricity. Whether the seat can be repositioned without mains power depends on the mechanism.
Are electric recliners suitable for older people?
They can be easier to operate than manual recliners because they do not require pulling a lever. If standing assistance is the main concern, consider a dedicated rise-and-recline chair.
What is the best electric recliner for a small living room?
A compact two-seater is often a practical starting point. Compare Sorrento and Tokyo, but check their fully reclined dimensions before choosing.
Are leather electric recliners better than fabric?
Neither is automatically better. Fabric often feels warmer and softer, while leather has different cleaning and care requirements. Choose based on comfort and everyday use.
Can you get an electric recliner corner sofa?
Yes. Furniture Lovers offers several electric reclining corner sofas, including Owen, Ohio and Bicester.
Can an electric recliner sofa also be a bed?
Some electrically extending sofa beds can create a sleeping surface. However, their mechanisms differ from conventional footrest recliners.
Read our electric sofa beds buying guide to learn more.
How long should an electric recliner sofa last?
Lifespan depends on the quality of the construction, mechanism, usage and care. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and avoid overloading the footrest.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy an Electric Recliner Sofa?
An electric recliner sofa is worth considering if you regularly recline and value adjustable everyday comfort.
For smaller budgets, compare Sorrento and Tokyo. For a three-seater with additional features, look at Tokyo and Galaxy Tech. For larger family rooms, compare Owen, Ohio and Bicester.
Whatever you choose, make sure the sofa fits your room when fully reclined, has the powered seats you need and suits your preferred upholstery and budget.
Find Your Electric Recliner Sofa
Explore electric recliner chairs, two-seaters, three-seaters, sofa sets and corner sofas.
Shop Electric ReclinersAbout this guide: Prepared by the Furniture Lovers Editorial Team using information from our product catalogue. Prices and range details were reviewed in October 2026. This is a retailer's buying guide featuring products sold by Furniture Lovers, not an independent market-wide ranking. Always check individual product listings for current specifications, prices and availability.