besides the huge price difference is there a different feel? Ive heard the look is so similar its hard to determine which is which but does one feel softer or more flexible than the other? My sister in law has a leather sofa that is kind of stiff, I want to avoid that if possible.
MY DuraBlend (or bonded leather) sofa from Ashley furniture started peeling after 1 yr. This is not covered under the warranty as it is considered wear and tear. Feels great and looks amazing but after just moderate use it has the potential to start peeling. It was even peeling in odd areas I would not recommend this material for sofas.
As it relates to the feel comfort, top-grain (real) leather is a natural material that will provide a softer, more breathable feel. Think of the difference between wearing polyester clothing to 100% wool. Many people will complain of leather furniture being hot or sticky, which is a result of having man-made materials in bonded and bicast leathers. Top-grain leather will reduce this significantly, and the leather will better match your body temperate. From a standpoint of the look, this will depend much on taste. Bonded and bicast leathers will look like leather, and often have a more uniform look. High quality, top-grain leather furniture will often be aniline-dyed, which allows the true grain of a leather to show through. Top-grain leather is often more susceptible to surface scratches that will cause the look of the leather to change over time. Some people will appreciate this for the character it gives a piece of furniture, and some will not. From a quality and durability standpoint, top-grain leather is typically thicker, and because it does not have a synthetic layer, you will not wear through it and it has the potential to last much, much longer.
