I have neither, so I'm just reacting to the photos. Other than stuff collecting in the tufts, I prefer the look of nontufted. Or maybe just one piece, otherwise too many dimples.

I think it's a preference thing. I prefer the flat back, which I have now, and find them more comfortable than tufted. Linelle is right, the tufts also become dust collectors.

I like the tufted better. It adds some texture that I like. Looks classy.

I had the tufted back years ago and the string broke that holds the button. That might be a consideration with kids. And let's face it, how often does the average person vacuum a sofa?

I have tufted leather pieces (think Chesterfield), and really like the look. I don't have kids, but do have cats and find that sometimes they do shed fur into the little "pockets", but that's easily remedied with the vacuum hose.

Thank you for all the comments - great thoughts and perspectives.

Definitely a preference thing. Mine is tufted, and I love it. But I also wouldn't hesitate to get a smooth tight back. So long as it's a tight back....

Dust.

I have both in my house and have no problem with either style. IMHO, tufted seats collect more "stuff" than tufted backs.

I also think the tufted adds some glam, but maybe the rest of your decor could help you decide better. For instance, if you're into contemporary, the flat back might be a better choice.

Tufted is better at hiding dents you might get from people always sitting in the same spot. But buttons do pop off. Don't get a tufted piece that has no access to the back of the buttons for repairs!

I don't have a problem with dust in the tufts in my sofa's back.

We have both. I like the combination of tufted and non tufted furniture in a room. When I vacuum the rug, I will also vacuum the tufts, easy peasy.

Believe I found that off of Smith Brothers online catalog

Pros for tufted back is it will hold it's shape better (will last longer and still look good) The cons are buttons can pop (easy to replace) with kids it is a bit less kid friendly or loungy The straight back will not hold it's shape and very quickly it will look a bit saggy (can be fluffed or filled to fix) Pros it is kid friendly and loungeable