A wall recliner, which is also called a wall hugger recliner or a zero clearance recliner only requires a clearance area of 4 to 5 inches to put your legs up. This makes the ideal for smaller spaces like small living rooms or bedrooms where furniture is already present. They’re the ideal solution for small apartments and condominiums.

Wall recliners do not rock when they’re in an upright position. This makes them very stable, which can be ideal for elderly people or people with mobility issues who have difficulty standing up from a seated position.

A regular recliner requires more clearance room to kick back but the trade-off is a wider range of motion as you move back. If elevating your legs is important for your comfort, you may want to consider a standard recliner if you have the space.