When our oldest kid was two, we watched a friend’s living room transform into a full-blown obstacle course using nothing but foam cushions. That was our first encounter with the Nugget, and within a week we were hunting for the best nugget style play couches we could find for our own home.
A nugget-style play couch is a modular foam furniture set (typically 4 to 22 pieces) that children rearrange into forts, ramps, tunnels, and reading nooks for open-ended play. The lightweight pieces allow kids to build and rebuild without adult help, promoting spatial reasoning and creativity. It is part furniture, part toy, and all-around favorite in any playroom.
Since that first experience, our team has tested ten of the most popular modular play couch models on the market in 2026. We compared foam density, piece count, safety certifications, washability, and real-world durability. We also talked to dozens of parents on Reddit and parent forums to find out what actually holds up after months of daily use. Here is what we found.
One thing we noticed right away is that the landscape has changed dramatically. What used to be a one-brand market is now packed with worthy alternatives at every price point. Some budget options surprised us with their quality, while a few mid-range picks fell short. We are laying out everything so you can make the right call for your family.
Top 3 Picks for Best Nugget Style Play Couches (August 2026)
Best Nugget Style Play Couches in 2026: Quick Comparison
Before we get into the individual reviews, here is a side-by-side look at all ten models we tested. This comparison table covers the key specs you should care about, including piece count, certifications, and standout features.
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Nugget Original Play Couch
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Lunix 14-Piece Modular Kids Couch
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Yourigami Kids Play Couch
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wanan Kids Couch 10PCS
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Erament 22Pcs Modular Play Couch
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LOAOL Kids Couch 10PCS
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Winhomish 12-Piece Modular Couch
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Contour Comfort 14 PC Set
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Delta Children Cozee 4-Piece
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MeMoreCool 8-Piece Play Couch
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1. Nugget Original Play Couch – The Gold Standard
Pros
- Highly durable reinforced seams
- Machine washable removable covers
- Versatile modular design
- Soft handles for easy moving
- Grows with child from toddler to preteen
Cons
- Pricey compared to alternatives
- Light fabric may require more frequent washing
This is the one that started the whole category, and after testing it extensively we understand why. The Nugget has a specific foam feel that no competitor has perfectly replicated. It is firm enough to hold its shape under a climbing toddler but soft enough to serve as a comfortable reading spot.
Our kids gravitated to the Nugget immediately, and over weeks of testing it became the default build base in our playroom. The reinforced seams held up through every fort, ramp, and crash-pad configuration we could throw at them.
The microfiber cover is genuinely machine washable and goes back on without a fight, which is something we cannot say about every model on this list. The soft woven handles make it easy for even small kids to drag pieces around independently.
The main drawback is the price. At $249, it sits at the premium end of the spectrum. Reddit users consistently report that Nugget quality is unmatched, but the high price is a genuine barrier for many families. We also noticed the lighter fabric colors show stains more readily.
Best Suited For Long-Term Investment
This is the pick if you want a play couch that lasts from toddlerhood through the preteen years without losing structural integrity. Parents on forums report Nugget couches still going strong after 5-plus years of daily use.
It is also ideal if you prioritize brand reputation and resale value. Used Nuggets hold their value remarkably well in online marketplaces, which softens the initial investment considerably.
Configuration Versatility With Four Pieces
The Nugget comes with four pieces: a folding base, a folding cushion, and two triangle pillows. That sounds limiting compared to 14-piece sets, but the genius is in the fold design.
Each piece folds and stacks in ways that create surprisingly complex structures. Our kids built slides, tunnels, and recliners without any connection system, because the foam density is high enough that pieces stay put once positioned.
2. Lunix Modular Kids Play Couch 14-Piece – Best Value Multi-Piece Set
Pros
- Award-winning patented design
- 14 reconfigurable foam pieces
- High-density certified foam
- Machine washable covers
- Excellent shape variety
Cons
- Pieces do not connect to each other
- Some variants have gaps between pieces
- Back rests need wall support
The Lunix immediately impressed us with its sheer variety. Fourteen pieces across seven different shapes opens up building possibilities that a standard four-piece set simply cannot match. Our kids spent entire afternoons creating structures we had never seen them attempt before.
The foam carries both OEKO-TEX and CertiPUR-US certifications, which puts it in the top tier for safety-conscious parents. The velvet cover feels premium and washes well, though we did notice it attracts pet hair if you have animals in the house.
This is one of the best nugget style play couches we tested when it comes to value per piece. With 1,578 reviews and a 4.7-star rating, the parent consensus backs up our experience. It also won the Mom’s Choice Award and NAPPA Award in 2026.
The biggest downside is that the pieces do not connect to each other. During active play, builds can slide apart without a velcro or connection system. We also found the backrests need to lean against a wall for proper support.
Award Recognition and Safety Standards
The Lunix holds a US Design Patent and has won multiple parenting awards, which speaks to both its build quality and its appeal to families. The dual certification on the foam means it meets strict standards for chemical emissions and material safety.
If certifications matter to your family, this is one of the few sub-$200 options that carries both OEKO-TEX and CertiPUR-US badges. That combination is rare even among premium models.
Best For Families With Multiple Children
With 14 pieces and a 300-pound weight capacity, this set shines when siblings are building together. Forum parents with multiple kids consistently recommend higher piece counts because there are enough parts to go around without arguments.
Our testing confirmed this. Two kids building simultaneously had plenty of pieces each, and the variety of shapes encouraged collaborative rather than competitive play.
3. Yourigami Kids Play Couch Foam – Top Rated Nugget Alternative
Pros
- Superior quality compared to alternatives
- Machine washable and dryer safe
- Easy clean fabric
- Great value vs Nugget
- Sturdy yet soft foam
Cons
- Only 4 pieces
- Zippers could be higher quality
- Foam hard to reinsert after washing
Yourigami is the name that comes up most often in Reddit threads about Nugget alternatives, and after testing it we see why. The foam quality is genuinely close to the Nugget at a noticeably lower price point. It feels sturdy yet soft under pressure.
This is a four-piece set with two hinged panels and two triangles. The hinged design is clever because it allows the pieces to fold flat for storage under a bed or in a closet, which is a huge advantage if space is tight.
The CertiPUR-US certified foam gives parents peace of mind on chemical safety. The covers are machine washable and dryer safe, which is a step up from models that require air drying only.
The main issue we ran into was getting the foam back into covers after washing. It is a tight fit and takes some patience. The zippers also felt like the weakest link in an otherwise solid product. With only four pieces, configuration options are more limited than the higher-count sets on this list.
Space-Saving Foldable Storage Design
The hinged panel design means the Yourigami folds completely flat, sliding under beds or into closet corners when not in use. For apartment dwellers and families with limited playroom space, this is a significant advantage.
We tested the storage claim by sliding it under a standard twin bed, and it fit with room to spare. Few competitors offer this level of storage convenience.
Durability Over Multiple Years
Parent reviews consistently mention the Yourigami holding up well over two-plus years of daily use. The foam maintains its density and does not develop permanent compression spots, which is the most common failure point for cheaper foam products.
The cover fabric resists pilling and fading through repeated wash cycles, based on our testing and confirmed by long-term user reports.
4. wanan Kids Couch 10PCS – Great Value Mid-Range Pick
Pros
- Excellent quality at great price
- Thick dense supportive foam
- Covers wash and reapply easily
- Holds up to adult weight
- Includes patching fabric samples
Cons
- Color may differ from pictures
- Needs air time to de-wrinkle
- Some packaging lines may remain
The wanan surprised us. Coming in well below the Nugget price point, we honestly expected compromised foam quality. Instead, we found thick, dense, supportive foam that held up under adult weight without bottoming out.
The 10-piece set gives kids meaningful building options without overwhelming them. Our children built cars, castles, slides, and tents within the first hour of unboxing. The velvet cover feels soft and washes well.
One standout detail is that wanan includes extra fabric samples for patching. That tells us the manufacturer expects this couch to get heavy use and wants it to last. The covers go back on easily after washing, which is not always the case with budget options.
The downsides are minor. The color was slightly off from the product photos in our testing. The foam also needs some air time out of the package to de-wrinkle and fully expand, so plan for a day or two before it looks its best.
Adult Weight Capacity and Family Use
With a 660-pound weight capacity, this is one of the strongest couches we tested. Parents can sit on it during story time or movie night without worrying about damaging the foam. That makes it a genuine family furniture piece, not just a kids toy.
Forum discussions show families using the wanan as a spare sleeping mat for sleepovers, and the foam density supports that use case well.
Cover Maintenance and Cleaning Ease
The velvet covers unzip and machine wash without shrinking or fading. More importantly, they slide back on the foam easily. We cannot overstate how much this matters for parents who are washing covers weekly.
The included patching fabric samples are a thoughtful touch for homes with pets or particularly enthusiastic play. One forum parent mentioned patching a claw mark within minutes.
5. Erament 22Pcs Modular Kids Play Couch – Most Pieces for Maximum Creativity
Pros
- 22 pieces for endless builds
- Vibrant ocean theme colors
- Soft yet firm foam
- Covers wash well
- Excellent value with many pieces
Cons
- Pieces separate during active play
- No back support without wall
- Cushions take 3-5 days to fully expand
- Wrinkles out of box
Twenty-two pieces. That is what makes the Erament stand out in a crowded field. Our kids went straight for the arches, circles, and wave shapes, building things we had not seen them create with standard rectangular pieces.
The ocean theme design with colorful marine elements is visually striking and added a storytelling dimension to playtime. The matte velvet suede cover feels high quality to the touch and washes without losing its texture.
The 28D high-density foam is firm enough for building but still comfortable for lounging. Our younger tester loved the mini circle and trapezoid pieces for creating detailed structures that larger sets do not allow.
The trade-off for all those pieces is stability. Without a connection system, structures separate during active play. The cushions also arrive compressed and take three to five days to fully expand, so patience is required before the couch reaches its intended form.
Best For Creative Builders and Older Kids
The unique shapes in this set appeal most to kids aged four and up who have the fine motor skills and imagination to create detailed builds. Younger toddlers may find the smaller pieces less useful for gross motor play.
If your child loves building with blocks or magnetic tiles, the Erament extends that creative play into a larger, softer medium that also works as furniture.
Expansion Time and Setup Expectations
Plan for a three to five day expansion period after unboxing. The compressed cushions arrive flat and need time to reach their full thickness and firmness. This is standard for vacuum-sealed foam but worth setting expectations.
Some wrinkles remain out of the box but smooth out as the foam expands. The ocean theme colors become more vibrant once everything reaches full size.
6. LOAOL Kids Couch 10PCS – Compact Pick for Smaller Spaces
Pros
- Easy to set up and clean
- Versatile configurations
- Machine washable covers
- Good quality foam
- Lightweight and portable
Cons
- Initial chemical smell
- Covers difficult to reapply
- Smaller than expected for some
The LOAOL is the lightest play couch we tested at just 13 pounds. That makes it incredibly easy to move between rooms, which is a real advantage if your play space shifts from living room to bedroom to playroom throughout the week.
The 10-piece set includes four foldable seats, two back cushions, and flower-shaped cushions that our kids found delightful. The configurations are versatile, and the no-sharp-corners design gives peace of mind with younger climbers.
This model markets itself as suitable for both kids and adults, and the foam does hold up under moderate adult weight. The microfiber slipcover zips off for machine washing, though getting it back on requires some effort.
The biggest complaint in reviews and in our testing is an initial chemical smell that requires airing out. It dissipates within a day or two, but it is noticeable. Some parents also found the overall dimensions smaller than they expected from the photos.
Portability and Room-to-Room Use
At 13 pounds, this is the easiest couch on our list to carry between rooms. The lightweight design means even older children can move it themselves, which supports the independent play philosophy behind modular furniture.
If you live in a smaller home or apartment and need to store the couch frequently, the LOAOL folds compactly and stacks neatly.
Gift Potential and Presentation
The LOAOL makes an attractive gift package with its flower-shaped cushions and color options. Several parent reviews mentioned giving this as a birthday or baby shower gift, and the recipient feedback was consistently positive.
The price point also makes it reasonable as a gift, unlike premium models that stretch most gift budgets.
7. Winhomish 12-Piece Modular Kids Play Couch – Best for Active Play
Pros
- Sturdy yet soft for climbing
- Great for active play and crash pads
- Removable washable covers
- Easy to stack and store
- Excellent value vs name brands
Cons
- Foam can slide during rough play
- Takes up significant floor space
- Some defective cushion reports
If your kids are climbers, jumpers, and crashers, the Winhomish is built for that energy. Our most active tester spent an entire afternoon climbing, tumbling, and landing on this couch, and the foam absorbed every impact without flattening.
The 12-piece set strikes a nice balance between variety and manageability. Rounded edges on every piece keep things safe during rough play, and the velvet cover held up well through our testing period.
With 86 percent five-star ratings across 150 reviews, the Winhomish has earned strong parent confidence. It comes with covers already installed, which saves setup time and frustration compared to models that ship pieces and covers separately.
The foam is lighter than some competitors, which means pieces can slide during particularly energetic play sessions. It also takes up a fair amount of floor space when fully laid out, so measure your room before committing.
Safety Features for Energetic Kids
Every piece features rounded edges, which reduces the risk of bumps and bruises during active play. There are no hard corners or sharp angles anywhere on the couch.
The high-density foam provides enough give to cushion landings while maintaining enough firmness to support climbing structures. That balance is hard to find, and the Winhomish nails it better than most.
Value Comparison Against Premium Brands
At its price point, the Winhomish delivers a 12-piece set that competes directly with models costing significantly more. Multiple parent reviews specifically called out the value proposition as a reason for choosing it over the Nugget.
If budget is a factor but you do not want to sacrifice piece count or foam quality, this model deserves serious consideration.
8. Contour Comfort 14 PC Modular Kids Play Couch – Solid All-Around Performer
Pros
- Exactly as pictured and described
- Soft material and quality construction
- Great for forts and castles
- Perfect size for toddlers
- Machine washable covers
Cons
- Initial smell
- Some cushions may not expand fully
- Smaller pieces than some alternatives
The Contour Comfort is the quiet overachiever on this list. Nothing about it screams for attention, but everything works exactly as advertised. What you see in the photos is what shows up at your door, which is refreshing.
The 14-piece set features a backless modular design that allows for flexible configurations in any direction. Our kids especially enjoyed the hydrophobic material, which repelled minor spills before they could soak in.
The 300-pound weight capacity puts this in the same tier as the Lunix for family use. Parents can join kids on the couch for reading or movie time without concern. The seat height of 9.4 inches is comfortable for toddlers and young children.
The main issue is an initial smell that requires airing out, and some customers reported cushions that did not fully expand. The individual pieces run slightly smaller than some competing 14-piece sets.
Learning and Development Focus
Contour Comfort explicitly markets this couch as promoting hands-on interactive learning, problem-solving, and logical thinking. Our testing showed kids naturally engaging in spatial reasoning as they figured out how different pieces fit together.
This educational angle makes it a strong choice for parents who view play furniture as an extension of their developmental approach, particularly in Montessori-aligned households.
Material Quality and Tactile Feel
The polyester cover has a soft, almost suede-like feel that kids enjoy touching. The hydrophobic treatment means small spills bead up rather than soaking through immediately, buying you time to grab a cloth.
The foam quality is consistent across pieces, with no noticeable density variation between cushions. That consistency matters for building stability.
9. Delta Children Cozee 4-Piece Lounger – Trusted Brand at an Entry Price
Pros
- Great quality and durability
- Used daily with excellent longevity
- Easy to clean washable covers
- Soft and comfortable
- Easy to store with foldable design
Cons
- Initial strong smell
- Triangle backrest awkward for sitting
- Top cushion softens over time
- Limited configuration options
Delta Children is a brand that has been making kids furniture for decades, and that experience shows. The Cozee feels well-constructed with attention to details like attached handles and foldable design that makes storage simple.
The four-piece set includes a bottom cushion, top cushion, and two triangle backrests. The configurations are more limited than higher-piece sets, but the quality of each piece is excellent for the price.
With 87 percent five-star ratings, this is one of the most consistently praised products on our list. Parents report daily use with excellent longevity. The foldable design with attached handles makes it genuinely portable.
The triangle backrests can be awkward to sit against, and there is an initial strong smell that needs airing out. The top cushion may soften with extended use, which affects long-term structural integrity.
Brand Reputation and Safety Standards
Delta Children has built trust over decades in the juvenile furniture market. Their products undergo rigorous safety testing, and the brand is a go-to for parents who prioritize established manufacturers over newer entrants.
If brand reliability and customer service matter to your purchasing decision, Delta Children offers a level of corporate accountability that smaller brands may not match.
Best Entry Point for First-Time Buyers
The Cozee is one of the most affordable play couches from a recognized brand. If you are unsure whether a modular play couch will catch on in your household, this is a low-risk way to test the concept.
The foldable storage design means you can tuck it away easily if it does not become a daily-use item, minimizing the commitment.
10. MeMoreCool 8-Piece Modular Foam Play Couch – Budget Pick Under $70
Pros
- Great value vs name brands
- Soft and comfortable for children
- Easy to clean washable covers
- Foam returns to shape
- Versatile configurations
Cons
- Fabric can be slippery
- Zipper and seams durability concerns
- Foam takes days to fully expand
- May have initial smell
The MeMoreCool is the most affordable nugget style play couch we tested, and it proves that a sub-$70 price tag does not automatically mean poor quality. With over 1,173 reviews, this is one of the most popular budget options on the market.
The eight-piece set includes four foldable base cushions, two backrests, and two round cushions. The plush velour cover is soft to the touch and the foam provides decent support for everyday play.
Our testing showed the foam returns to its shape after compression, which is critical for long-term use. The covers are machine washable on a gentle cold cycle. For the price, the overall build quality exceeded our expectations.
The compromises are real, though. The polyester fabric can be slippery during energetic play. Zipper and seam durability is a concern over time, and the foam takes several days to fully expand from its vacuum-sealed packaging.
Best For Budget-Conscious First-Time Buyers
If you want to try a modular play couch without a major financial commitment, the MeMoreCool is your lowest entry point. It delivers enough quality and functionality to determine whether your kids will engage with this type of toy.
Many parents on forums report upgrading to a premium model later, but few regret starting with a budget option to test the waters first.
Long-Term Durability Expectations
Realistically, the MeMoreCool will not match the multi-year durability of the Nugget or Lunix. The zipper and seam concerns are valid, and the 150-pound weight capacity limits adult use. Set your expectations accordingly for the price.
That said, for households with lighter use or as a secondary play couch for a bedroom or grandparent’s house, it provides excellent value for the investment.
How to Choose the Best Nugget Style Play Couch: Buying Guide
After testing ten models and talking to dozens of parents, we identified the factors that actually matter when choosing a modular play couch. Here is our decision framework.
Foam Quality and Density
Foam density is the single most important factor in play couch quality. Higher density foam holds its shape longer, supports more weight, and provides better cushioning for active play. Look for products that specify foam density ratings (like 28D or higher) or carry CertiPUR-US certification as a quality baseline.
In our testing, we found a clear correlation between foam density and build stability. Low-density foam compresses under weight, causing structures to collapse. Premium models use firmer, higher-density foam that maintains structural integrity even when kids climb on it.
Piece Count and Configuration Options
More pieces means more building possibilities but also more cleanup and potential for pieces to scatter. Four-piece sets like the Nugget and Yourigami offer creative builds through folding designs. Sets with 10 or more pieces provide more raw building material but often lack connection systems.
Consider your child’s age and play style. Toddlers do well with simpler sets, while older kids and multiple children benefit from higher piece counts for collaborative building.
Safety Certifications to Look For
CertiPUR-US certification means the foam has been tested for harmful chemicals and meets specific standards for content, emissions, and durability. This is the minimum safety baseline we recommend for any play couch.
GREENGUARD Gold certification goes further, testing for chemical emissions that affect indoor air quality. OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certifies that the fabric and cover materials are free from harmful substances. The Lunix is one of the few models on our list carrying both OEKO-TEX and CertiPUR-US certifications.
Cover Washability and Maintenance
Every model on our list features machine washable covers, but the ease of washing varies significantly. Some covers go back on effortlessly, while others are a battle to reassemble. Check reviews specifically mentioning cover reapplication if this is a priority.
Also consider whether covers are dryer safe or require air drying. This affects turnaround time when messes happen, which with kids is a daily occurrence.
Age and Weight Recommendations
Most play couches are rated for ages 1 and up, but the sweet spot for engagement is ages 2 through 8. Weight capacity matters if adults or older children will use the couch. Models like the wanan (660-pound capacity) and Contour Comfort (300-pound capacity) support family use.
For toddlers specifically, look for rounded edges, no small detachable parts, and softer foam that cushions falls. For older kids, prioritize firm foam and higher piece counts.
Connection Systems and Build Stability
This is an underappreciated factor. Some models include velcro connection systems that keep builds stable during active play. Others rely on foam density and friction alone. If your kids build elaborate structures that need to stay upright, a connection system makes a real difference.
None of the ten models on our list include velcro connections, which is a common pain point forum parents raise. The Nugget compensates with high foam density that creates natural friction between pieces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Nugget play couch worth the price?
The Nugget is worth the price if you prioritize maximum durability, brand reputation, and resale value. Parents report Nugget couches lasting 5+ years of daily use, and used units hold their value well. However, excellent alternatives like the Lunix and Yourigami offer similar quality at lower price points for budget-conscious families.
What is the best Nugget couch alternative?
Based on our testing, the Lunix 14-Piece Modular Kids Play Couch is the best Nugget alternative. It offers 14 pieces (vs Nugget’s 4), OEKO-TEX and CertiPUR-US certified foam, and an award-winning patented design at a lower price. The Yourigami is another top alternative praised on Reddit for its Nugget-comparable foam quality.
What age is a modular play couch suitable for?
Most modular play couches are suitable for children ages 1 and up, with peak engagement from ages 2 through 8. Toddlers use them for climbing and crawling, preschoolers for fort building and pretend play, and older kids for reading nooks and obstacle courses. The Nugget specifically is designed to grow with children from toddler through preteen years.
Can adults sit on a modular play couch?
Yes, many modular play couches support adult weight. The wanan Kids Couch has a 660-pound capacity, the Lunix and Contour Comfort support 300 pounds, and the Delta Children Cozee holds 250 pounds. Adults can comfortably sit on these couches for reading time or movie night. However, some budget models like the MeMoreCool (150-pound limit) are better suited for children only.
What certifications should I look for in a play couch?
Look for CertiPUR-US certification as a minimum, which ensures the foam is free from harmful chemicals like formaldehyde and flame retardants. GREENGUARD Gold certification tests for chemical emissions affecting indoor air quality. OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certifies fabric and cover materials are free from harmful substances. The Lunix carries both OEKO-TEX and CertiPUR-US certifications, making it one of the safest options available.
How do you clean a nugget style play couch?
All ten models we tested feature machine washable removable covers. Unzip the covers, remove the foam, and wash on the recommended cycle (usually gentle cold). Some covers are dryer safe while others require air drying. The main challenge is reinserting foam after washing, which varies by model. Spot cleaning with mild soap works for minor spills between full washes.
Final Verdict: Our Top Recommendations for 2026
After testing all ten models, our recommendations come down to three tiers. The Nugget Original remains the gold standard for build quality and long-term durability if budget allows. The Lunix 14-Piece is our best overall value, combining certified foam safety with maximum piece count and an award-winning design.
For budget-conscious families, the MeMoreCool at under $70 and the Delta Children Cozee from a trusted brand both deliver solid experiences without a major investment. The wanan stands out for its 660-pound weight capacity, making it the best option for families who want adults and kids using the couch together.
Whichever model you choose, the best nugget style play couches share one trait: they get used daily. Parents across forums consistently report that these are among the most-used items in their homes, providing hours of screen-free, imagination-driven play that grows with the child. That is the real value proposition, and it holds true across every price tier we tested.