Click-clack or BZ: which convertible sofa to choose for small spaces?

Looking for a clever way to transform your living room into a spare bedroom without sacrificing space or budget? Click-clack and BZ sofa beds are the champions of versatility in small spaces. But between these two seemingly similar models, which one is best suited to your situation?

In this guide we've broken down most of their features to help you make a better decision!

Click-clack and futon: two concepts, two philosophies

Before diving into the details, let's lay the groundwork. Both terms refer to convertible sofas, but their deployment mechanism differs fundamentally.

The click-clack sofa bed: simplicity and speed

The click-clack sofa bed gets its name from the characteristic noise it makes when it is operated. Its mechanism is simple: the backrest folds back horizontally to form a bed.

It is easily recognizable by its three-part structure (seat, backrest, and rear section) which unfold along the axis of the sofa. Once opened, it therefore occupies more depth but retains the same width.

To fold it, simply lift the seat until you hear the familiar "click-clack" that locks the backrest in the upright position. This ease of use makes it an ideal choice for everyday use.

The BZ: the practical accordion

The BZ (pronounced "bay-zed") works like an accordion. Its mattress folds into three equal parts that are stored vertically to form the seat and back of the sofa. Unlike a click-clack sofa, it unfolds perpendicular to the seated position, that is, towards the front of the room.

Its name comes from the Italian manufacturer who popularized it in the 1970s. The slatted mechanism generally offers better support than that of the click-clack, which partly explains its success with those who regularly use it as their main bed.

Technical comparison: advantages and limitations

Now that the introductions are out of the way, let's get down to business with a detailed comparative analysis.

Functionality and size

The sofa bed requires a clear space behind it to fully unfold. Allow approximately 2 meters of total depth when open.

Alternatively, you can place it against a wall in sofa position, which improves the layout of your room. Its side opening makes it ideal for narrow but deep rooms.

The BZ sofa bed opens at the front and therefore requires no space at the back. You can place it against any wall without restriction. However, allow sufficient space in front of the sofa: approximately 2 meters for comfortable deployment.

This configuration is particularly suitable for studios and small apartments where every centimeter counts.

A quick practical calculation: in a 20 m² studio, a BZ sofa bed attached to the wall will save you approximately 50 cm of usable space on a daily basis compared to a click-clack sofa bed.

Comfort: The Mattress Battle

This is often the deciding factor, especially if you plan to sleep there regularly.

On the click-clack side, the mattress is generally thinner (12 to 15 cm thick on average) and rests on a simple metal structure.

This configuration is suitable for occasional use, but quickly shows its limitations if you use it every night. Indeed, the central bar can become noticeable in the lower back after several hours of sleep.

However, some high-end models (starting at €500) offer memory foam mattresses or pocket springs which significantly improve comfort.

The BZ sofa bed typically includes a thicker mattress (15 to 18 cm) that rests on a slatted base, just like a regular bed. This structure provides better back support and superior ventilation.

Users report less back pain with a BZ sofa bed than with a click-clack sofa bed for regular use.

"I slept on my sofa bed for two years in my first studio apartment, and honestly, I couldn't see the difference with my bed today," says Léa, 28, a graphic designer in Lyon.

Comfort verdict: if you're looking for an extra bed to accommodate friends occasionally, both options are equally good. For everyday use, the sofa bed is the clear winner.

Aesthetics and design

Sofa beds often have a more classic, even slightly retro, style. Their low, elongated silhouette is reminiscent of sofas from the 80s and 90s. If you're looking for a minimalist or industrial look, you'll easily find what you're looking for.

Brands like Alinéa or Conforama offer contemporary models with covers in mottled fabric or corduroy starting from €250.

BZ sofa beds generally opt for a discreet look with cleaner lines that better conceal their convertible nature. Their straight backrest and compact seat give them a more "classic sofa" appearance.

Retailers like La Redoute or Made.com offer designer models with Scandinavian wooden legs and textured fabrics starting from €350.

In terms of storage, some models in both categories include a storage compartment under the seat. This is practical for storing a duvet and pillows, but be aware: it generally adds €100 to €150 to the base price.

The crux of the matter: prices

Let's talk budget. Prices vary enormously depending on the quality of the mattress, the mechanism and the cover.

For a sofa bed :

• Entry-level: €150 to €300 (large stores like Ikea or But)
• Mid-range: €300 to €500 (best mattress, removable cover)
• High-end: €500 to €800 (premium mattress, durable fabrics)

For a BZ :

• Entry-level price: €250 to €400
• Mid-range: €400 to €600
• High-end: €600 to €1000

Expect to pay around 20 to 30% more for a BZ sofa bed of equivalent quality to a click-clack sofa bed. This difference is due to a more sophisticated mechanism and a generally thicker mattress.

“I opted for a BZ at €450 rather than a click-clack at €350, and I absolutely do not regret the €100 difference. The comfort is incomparable,” says Thomas, 24, a master’s student in Bordeaux.

Ease of daily use

The sofa bed wins the prize for speed: 5 seconds to unfold it, 5 seconds to fold it. No particular physical effort is required, even for those who aren't very athletic. The drawback? You have to move cushions, throws, and other decorative items before each use.

The BZ sofa bed requires a bit more force to lift the seat, especially with a thick mattress. Allow 10 to 15 seconds to fully open it. The advantage is that you can leave cushions to the side without them interfering with the opening process.

If you convert your sofa into a bed every day, this difference in effort can take its toll in the long run. Try it out in store before buying if you have back problems or mobility issues.

How to choose: the practical guide

Now that you know the strengths and weaknesses of each system, here are the questions to ask yourself to make the right choice.

Analyze your space

Measure your room precisely and visualize the space it occupies:

• Room configuration : if your available wall is short but deep, choose a sofa bed. If you lack depth, opt for a futon.
• Circulation : Ensure you can move around easily once the sofa is unfolded. Leave at least 60 cm of clearance.
• Multifunctionality : in a studio apartment, a sofa bed against the back wall frees up more living space on a daily basis.

Evaluate your usage frequency

• Occasional use (less than once a week): an entry-level or mid-range sofa bed is more than sufficient.
• Regular use (several times a week): invest in a minimum mid-range BZ to protect your back.
• Daily use : only a high-end BZ with a 16-18 cm mattress and reinforced slats will guarantee comfort and durability.

Think about longevity and maintenance

Lifespan : A well-maintained futon can last 8 to 10 years with daily use, compared to 5 to 7 years for a click-clack sofa bed. The slatted mechanism is more resistant to wear and tear than the simple metal frame of the click-clack.

Care instructions : Always choose a removable, machine-washable cover. This is the number one factor in keeping your sofa clean over time. Vacuum regularly with the brush attachment to prevent dust from accumulating in the mattress creases.

To prolong the life of your sofa, alternate the sleeping positions (head to foot) every two weeks if you use it daily. This distributes wear and tear on the mattress more evenly.

Budget and value for money

Never sacrifice your mattress to save €50. It's the cornerstone of your comfort and the one that wears out the fastest. Alternatively, you can choose a basic cover and invest later in a decorative one (expect to pay €80 to €150 for a quality cover).

Sales periods offer real opportunities: up to 40% off previous year's models. Keep a close eye on the winter sales (January) and the French Days (September).

Moreover, if you want to save time in your search and choose a small click-clack sofa or a BZ sofa from a wide selection, online catalogues allow you to quickly filter by price, dimensions and style.

Brands that keep their promises

Ikea – The Nyhamn (BZ) model at €399 remains a safe bet with its memory foam mattress.

La Redoute Intérieurs – The BZ Tuxa (from €449) impresses with its meticulous finishes and wide choice of fabrics.

Conforama – For tight budgets, the Mia click-clack sofa at €199 is a good option for a student room.

Habitat – The high end (800-900€) with designer BZ sofa beds that last over time.

Simple & Good's recommendations

So, are you team click-clack or team BZ? The answer really depends on your personal situation, but here are our general recommendations.

Choose a sofa bed if :

• Your budget is tight (less than €400)
• You rarely use it as a bed (less than once a week)
• You have a narrow but deep room
• You prioritize ease and speed of handling

Opt for a BZ if :

• You sleep on it regularly (several times a week or every day)
• You can invest €400 or more
• Your room lacks depth
• Sleeping comfort is your top priority

If possible, test the sofa in the store before buying. Sit down, lie down, and operate the mechanism several times. It's the only way to verify that the model is truly right for you.

If you are buying online, carefully examine customer reviews: they often reveal practical details that product descriptions do not mention.

The classic mistake? Underestimating how often you'll use it. You buy a sofa bed "just as a temporary solution," and six months later you're sleeping on it every night with constant back pain. Be honest with yourself from the start.

The right convertible sofa is one that adapts to your lifestyle without requiring you to compromise on comfort or practicality.

Take the time to clearly define your needs before making a decision, and your investment will serve you comfortably for many years!

If you would like to share your experience or advice, please feel free to use the comments section below.

Your questions about sofa beds and futons

Is it safe to sleep on a sofa bed every night?

This is not recommended. The thin mattress and central support bar often cause back pain after a few weeks of daily use. For regular use, choose a sofa bed with a thicker mattress.

What is the difference in weight between the two?

A click-clack sofa bed weighs on average 20 to 25 kg, compared to 30 to 40 kg for a BZ sofa bed. This difference is explained by the thicker mattress and slatted mechanism of the BZ sofa bed.

Will a BZ sofa bed fit in a standard elevator?

Yes, no problem. When folded, a BZ sofa bed typically measures 80-90 cm wide and 90-100 cm deep, which fits in all standard elevators and staircases.

Do you need a bed base under a sofa bed?

No, click-clack and BZ sofa beds are freestanding. The BZ already has an integrated slat system, and the click-clack its metal frame. They are placed directly on the floor.

How long does a sofa bed last?

With daily use, expect a sofa bed to last 5 to 7 years and a good quality futon 8 to 10 years. Regular maintenance (rotating the mattress, washing the cover) significantly extends their lifespan.