When looking to invest in a high-quality leather couch, two Italian brands often come to mind – MaxDivani and Natuzzi. Both are known for their luxurious, premium leather sofas and sectionals.
But with different styles, construction methods and price points, how do you choose between them?
This comprehensive guide will compare MaxDivani and Natuzzi couches across all factors – materials, comfort, durability, cost and more – to help you make the right decision for your home.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | MaxDivani | Natuzzi |
| Leather Quality | Full grain Italian aniline leather only | Mainly full grain Italian aniline leather, some pigmented |
| Construction | Kiln-dried hardwood frame, 8-way hand-tied springs, high density foam, down cushions | Kiln-dried wood frame, webbing or pocket springs, soft foam, polyfill cushions |
| Comfort | Excellent support and longevity | Very good softness and pillowy feel |
| Style | Contemporary and transitional sleek designs | Traditional and classic luxury designs |
| Customization | Wide range of leathers, fabrics and colors | More limited fabric and color options |
| Price | $4,000 – $12,000, premium end of market | $1,500 – $8,000, wider range of price points |
| Warranty | 20 years on frame, 5 years on upholstery | 10 years on frame, 1 year on upholstery |
| Availability | Made to order, 12 week lead time | Made to order, 8-12 week lead time |
| Sustainability | Eco-friendly processes and supply chain | Extensive sustainability initiatives and reporting |
| Reviews | Outstanding, consistent 5-star luxury feedback | Very good, some mixed reviews on lower end models |
Overview of MaxDivani and Natuzzi
MaxDivani and Natuzzi are both Italian furniture companies specializing in finely crafted, luxurious leather sofas and sectionals.
MaxDivani was founded in 2003 in Naples, Italy and has a modern, contemporary style. Their sofas feature clean, geometric lines and come in a huge range of leathers and colors. They focus exclusively on couches, without expanding into other types of furniture.
Natuzzi has a much longer history, having been founded in 1959 by Pasquale Natuzzi in Southern Italy. They are known for more classic, traditional styling. Beyond sofas, Natuzzi produces a wide furniture collection including chairs, tables, beds and more.
Key Differences Between MaxDivani And Natuzzi Couches
Both brands oversee the entire design and production process in their Italian factories. They use quality leathers and premium materials to create durable, comfortable sofas backed by warranties. Let’s look more closely at how MaxDivani and Natuzzi compare.
- Leather Quality and Types
The leather is arguably the most important element of a luxury couch. Both Natuzzi and MaxDivani use high-grade, Italian leather but there are some differences:
MaxDivani Leather
MaxDivani uses only full grain, aniline dyed leathers sourced from Italy and France. Aniline dying uses transparent dyes to showcase the natural grain and markings on the hide. Full grain is the highest quality leather containing the entire thickness of the skin. It develops a beautiful patina over time.
They use premium hides from ox, buffalo, cow and goat. Top grain leather is never used. Hides are hand-selected by experts for quality and consistency of color.
Natuzzi Leather
Natuzzi also uses soft, supple full grain leathers from Italy and South America. About 80% of their hides are aniline dyed. The other 20% use protected leathers (pigmented or semi-aniline) which are rubbed with protective coatings and pigments. This makes them more stain and scratch resistant.
The company hand selects quality raw hides and subjects them to multiple control processes. Natuzzi grades their leather into 5 categories from the highest, Pure Aniline, through Vintage, Natural, Soft and Fiordifrutta.
Leather Quality Comparison
It’s hard to choose a clear winner – both use fantastic, soft Italian leather. MaxDivani only uses aniline, full grain hides in every sofa for a consistent premium feel. Natuzzi has more variation with some protected leathers that may be more kid and pet-friendly. Overall the leather quality is outstanding from both brands.
- Couch Construction and Comfort
A quality frame, suspension and padding make the difference between a stiff, uncomfortable couch and one that cradles you in comfort over years of everyday use. Let’s look at how Natuzzi and MaxDivani couches are engineered for comfort and durability:
MaxDivani Construction
- Kiln-dried hardwood frame with corner blocks for stability
- Eight-way hand-tied suspension with double dowelled joints
- Padding consists of thick, high-density and reflex foams
- Down-blend back cushions for softness
- Removable seat cushions with down-blend fiberfill
- Leather or fabric upholstery secured with reinforced edges
MaxDivani’s expert engineering provides excellent comfort, support and longevity. Their kiln-dried frames prevent warping. The eight-way hand-tied springs and quality foams provide “give” for cushioning and bounce-back support. And down-filled removable cushions maintain shape and softness.
Natuzzi Construction
- Kiln-dried beech and pine wood frame
- Dual steel suspension with elastic webbing or pocket springs
- High resilience foam core with varying densities
- Soft polyester fiber batting cushions
- Non-removable seat cushions in cut foam or pocket springs
- Leather, microfiber or fabric upholstery
Natuzzi also constructs high quality, durable frames and spring systems.
Their softer foams and polyfill cushions prioritize softness over support. Most Natuzzi models lack removable seat cushions – cushions are attached to the frame.
Construction and Comfort Comparison
MaxDivani has an edge in craftsmanship with hand-tied springs and down cushions that deliver lasting comfort and support. Their removable cushions make cleaning and maintenance easier.
However, Natuzzi offers excellent comfort too, especially for those prioritizing a softer, pillow-like feel. Much comes down to personal preference on cushion style. Both deliver outstanding luxury leather sofa construction.
- Style, Design and Customization
Beyond the materials inside, the style and appearance of your leather sofa matters too. Here’s how MaxDivani and Natuzzi compare on design options:
MaxDivani Styles
MaxDivani specializes in sleek, contemporary designs. Their sofas have modern squared arms with crisp tailoring and piping details. Sections feature geometric angles and clean lines.
Popular looks include:
- Contemporary – low profile, rectangular cushions, metal feet
- Transitional – a mix of modern and traditional elements
- Classic – tufted back, turned wood feet, nailheads
They allow full customization on dimensions, configurations, leather and color. You can create an L-shaped sectional tailored to your space. Their website makes it easy to visualize different designs.
Natuzzi Styles
Natuzzi’s designs evoke more traditional, classic luxury with turned wood feet, rolled arms and ornate details. Styles include:
- Traditional – button tufting, rolled arms, skirted base
- Casual contemporary – relaxed shapes with some modern elements
- Vintage Italian – ornate wood, lush leather, antique brass nails
Natuzzi offers fewer fabric and color options than MaxDivani. But you can still customize configurations and dimensions to fit your home.
Style Comparison
This area comes down to your personal taste. MaxDivani excels at sleek, contemporary couches that make a modern design statement. Natuzzi offers classic luxury sofas with an old-world sensibility. Both allow customization to your space, with MaxDivani having more fabric and color choices.
- Price Considerations
Hand-crafted Italian luxury comes at a cost. Let’s see how Natuzzi and MaxDivani compare on pricing:
MaxDivani Pricing
Their couches are exclusive and priced accordingly, ranging from:
- $4,000 – $6,000 for a basic 2-3 seater sofa
- $7,000 – $12,000 for a large sectional
MaxDivani does not sell through third party retailers, theirwebsite isthe only place to buy direct from their factory.
Natuzzi Pricing
As an older heritage brand, Natuzzi has a wider range including lower cost options, such as:
- $1,500 – $3,000 for entry-level leather sofas
- $4,000 – $8,000 for premium designer collections
Natuzzi sells through retailers and their website at different price points. Retail stores may offer sales or deals.
Pricing Comparison
There’s no getting around the fact that both are expensive, luxury brands. MaxDivani costs more on average, but focuses exclusively on premium construction. With Natuzzi you can pay less for their lower-tier imported models, or pay MaxDivani prices for top grain Italian leather.
- Warranties and Policies
It’s important to understand what guarantees and protections come with such a major purchase. Here are the policies for MaxDivani and Natuzzi:
MaxDivani Warranty
- 20 years on frame and cushion support
- 5 years on leather and cushions
- Covers defects in materials and craftsmanship
- Applies to original buyer only
Natuzzi Warranty
- 10 years on frame and structures
- 1 year on covering materials and filling
- Covers manufacturing defects
- Upholstery warranty transferable
Warranty Comparison
MaxDivani clearly provides more extensive long-term coverage. Their 20 year frame and suspension warranty can’t be beat. Natuzzi offers just 10 years, but does allow transfer of the upholstery warranty to a new owner which MaxDivani does not.
- Availability and Lead Times
These premium custom couches aren’t sitting in stock – you’ll wait 2-4 months from order to delivery. Here are some considerations around availability:
MaxDivani Availability
- Made to order in Italy after purchase
- Lead time around 12 weeks once ordered
- Only available through MaxDivani website
Natuzzi Availability
- 8-12 week lead times on custom orders
- Some in-stock models may ship faster
- Sold through stores and website
- Retailers may have floor models or returns in stock
Availability Comparison
The lead time is similar for custom orders from both brands. MaxDivani’s direct-to-consumer model means no in-stock purchases, while Natuzzi may have some faster shipping options. Overall purchasing requires some planning and patience for your investment sofa.
- Environmental Commitment
Eco-conscious consumers should understand what sustainability initiatives these Italian brands have embraced:
MaxDivani Eco Efforts
- Natural plant-based tanning processes
- Foam cushions made without CFCs
- Wood sourced from responsibly managed forests
- Complies with European standards on emissions
Natuzzi Eco Efforts
- Natuzzi Italia brand is Leather Working Group certified
- Use renewable solar energy in Italian factories
-dyeing processes to reduce wastewater
- ReCover program recycles sofas into new furniture
- limiting plastic packaging waste
Eco Comparison
Both brands are making strides on environmental commitments from responsible sourcing to greener manufacturing practices. Natuzzi seems a step ahead with extensive sustainability reporting and their ReCover recycling program. But MaxDivani makes eco-friendly processes a priority too.
- Reviews and Ratings
It’s wise to see what other purchasers have to say. Here are excerpts from reviews and ratings for MaxDivani and Natuzzi:
MaxDivani
“The quality and comfort is incredible – this MaxDivani sectional is worth every penny.”
“I’ve had my MaxDivani couch for 3 years now and it still looks brand new.”
“The leather is so soft and supple. And their customer service is top notch.”
With virtually all 5-star reviews, MaxDivani buyers express satisfaction with the luxury quality and durability. Complaints about MaxDivani are very rare.
Natuzzi
“This Natuzzi sofa has held up great for over 5 years with two kids and a dog!”
“High quality materials and very good construction. No problems so far.”
“Disappointed in the poor quality of the leather which peeled after a year.”
Natuzzi reviews are generally positive, but more mixed than MaxDivani. Some disappointing issues with finishing and materials are reported.
Review Comparison
MaxDivani couches earn outstanding reviews and luxury quality feedback. Natuzzi receives mostly positive feedback but some quality concerns arise. This aligns with MaxDivani’s higher standards and prices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, Maxdivani is considered an exceptional brand producing some of the highest quality leather sofas available. They use only the finest materials and construction methods. Their couches earn outstanding reviews and feature extensive 20 year warranties. Maxdivani is a premium Italian brand to look into for leather sofas built to last a lifetime.
Some Natuzzi Editions models are made in China to offer lower-priced options on this Italian brand. However their top grain leather Natuzzi Italia collection is made in Italy. Natuzzi is upfront about country of origin – check carefully if Made in Italy is important to you. Models made in Italy come at higher price points.
With proper care, a Natuzzi leather couch should last 15-20 years, though Natuzzi warranties the frame for 10 years. Higher-end Natuzzi Italia models made in Italy with top leather will have greater longevity than cheaper bonded leather models made in China. Reviews suggest some variability in Natuzzi quality, but their better couches hold up well long-term.
Natuzzi uses very good quality leather in most of their couches. Their top grain aniline Italian leathers are soft, supple and durable. Lower-end models use more protected, pigmented leathers with less natural grain. A few reviews complain of finishing issues with Natuzzi leather. But overall their leather is high-grade, especially on higher-priced options.
Final Thoughts
Now that we’ve compared these two Italian brands across all factors, which comes out on top?
For those seeking the highest level of quality and luxury, MaxDivani is the winner. Their standards of construction, materials and comfort are second to none. MaxDivani sofas are investments built to stand the test of time.
However, Natuzzi makes excellent quality sofas as well, while offering more affordable options to fit various budgets. Their diverse designs appeal to wider range of style tastes, from modern to classic.
MaxDivani outpaces Natuzzi in craftsmanship, durability and customer satisfaction feedback. But ultimately choosing between them comes down to your budget, style preferences and priorities.
You can rest assured investing in a leather sofa from either luxury brand will provide you with comfort and pride for years of enjoyment.
Just a quick note, I’ve owned a Natuzzi sectional for 15 years, it finally needs replacement. The local retail store I purchased the sectional from no longer carries Natuzzi. However, they do carry Maxdivani products. I was impressed with the beautiful sectional, they had on display, and the impeccable build quality.