The backrest and seat part are at both extremes with the former being soft and the latter really firm. Not exactly comfortable to seat in for long periods without additional large pillows which I held on to from my previous couch based on the reviews I had read before purchasing.  In all, it's a sturdy and nice looking sectional,  easy to put together and appears durable. Time will tell how it holds up as it's only 2 weeks old in my living room.