Written by Julia Forbes, Lead Tester
Sleep Number is one of the most popular brands when it comes to high-quality, high-tech mattresses. These are smart mattresses designed to improve your sleeping experience by allowing you to tailor your bed to your needs.
Sleep Number mattresses are unique in that they’re extremely customizable, meaning you can, for example, adjust the firmness on each side of the bed or track your sleep throughout the night using their app. Based on these features, it’s no surprise that they’re also known for their high price. It’s this mark-up that often puts people off and leads them to think about alternatives.
Sleep Number alternatives may not be as high-tech, but they can help you achieve the same quality of sleep at a fraction of the cost. In this article, we’ll discuss some mattresses that can serve as Sleep Number alternatives and why we think they’re a good replacement.
Best Sleep Number Alternatives
- Puffy Royal Hybrid + Adjustable Base – Best Sleep Number i10 Alternative
- Nectar with Adjustable Base – Best Sleep Number p5 Alternative
- Emma Shift – Best Sleep Number c4 Alternative
- Saatva Solaire – Best Sleep Number iLE Alternative
- Nolah Signature 12” + Adjustable Base – Best Sleep Number i8 Alternative
- Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe with Adjustable Base – Best Sleep Number m7 Alternative
- Bear Star Hybrid with Adjustable Base – Best Sleep Number p6 Alternative
Our Video Review of the Best Sleep Number Alternatives
Best Sleep Number Alternatives
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| Puffy Royal Hybrid Mattress | Nectar Mattress | Emma Shift | Saatva Solaire Mattress | Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Mattress | Bear Star Hybrid Mattress | |
| Rating | |||||||
| Firmness | Soft: 5.5/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Multiple firmness options | Soft: 4/10 | Multiple firmness options | Soft: 6/10 | |
| Material | Hybrid | Foam | Other | Other | Foam | Hybrid | Hybrid |
| Cooling | — | — |
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| Warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | 10-year warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | 10-year warranty | Lifetime warranty |
| Shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free white glove delivery | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping |
| Trial Period | 101 nights | 365 nights | 365 nights | 365 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights |
| Best For | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Couples, Back Pain | Back Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Hip Pain, Joint Pain | Hot Sleepers, Couples | Couples, Hot Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers | Side Sleepers, Back Pain | Hot Sleepers, Back Pain, Side Sleepers | Joint Pain, Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers |
Puffy Royal Hybrid with Adjustable Base – Best Sleep Number i10 Alternative
Product
Firmness
Trial Period
Product
Puffy Royal Hybrid MattressFirmness
Soft: 5.5/10Trial Period
101 nights
Product
Sleep Number 360 i10 Smart MattressFirmness
Multiple firmness optionsTrial Period
100 nightsWhy the Puffy Royal Hybrid with Adjustable Base Earned Best Sleep Number i10 Alternative
The Puffy Royal Hybrid is a durable mattress with plenty to love about it. Although it may not be as customizable as the Sleep Number i10 mattress, the Puffy Royal Hybrid can be equally as comfortable. The soft foam layers on top make it conducive to the i10’s 7-inch comfort layer, so both mattresses are on the plusher side.
We suggest you pair it with an adjustable base so that you can lift and lower different parts of the mattress, which should ensure a similar feel you’d get from the i10 model.
What’s the Puffy Royal Hybrid Made Of?
The Puffy Royal Hybrid has seven layers and is 14 inches thick.
- Layer 1 – Stain-Resistant Cloud Cover. This removable and hypoallergenic cover is easy to wash for a clean and fresh sleep surface.
- Layer 2 – Gel-Infused Cooling Foam (1.5 inches). A plush layer of foam exclusive to the Puffy Royal Hybrid provides cushioning while keeping cool.
- Layer 3 – Reflexive Memory Foam (1.5 inches). This memory foam layer adapts to your movements while relieving pressure buildup.
- Layer 4 – Climate Comfort™ Foam (2 inches). This comfortable foam resists humidity for even more temperature control.
- Layer 5 – Cloud Air Technology Foam (2 inches). Five zones are carved into this foam layer to properly align the body.
- Layer 6 – Firm Core Support Foam and Contour-Adapt Coils (7 inches). A combination of foam and pocketed coils create a stable support layer.
- Layer 7 – Grip Base Cover. The bottom cover keeps the bed from unwanted slipping.
My Take: The Puffy Royal Hybrid is a super soft mattress that’ll have you sleeping like royalty. Though it’s best for side sleepers, anyone looking for pressure relief and hugging foams should appreciate its comfortable feel.
What We Liked
- Free shipping – Puffy will ship their Royal Hybrid mattress for free. However, if you opt for the Sleep Number i10 mattress, you’ll have to pay for shipping. While Sleep Number’s shipping includes an in-home setup, you’ll have to spend an additional 249 dollars on top of your mattress purchase.
- The extended warranty – While the i10 mattress comes with a 15-year limited warranty, Puffy goes above and beyond with their warranty deal. The warranty on the Puffy Royal Hybrid is a lifetime deal for as long as you have the mattress.
Potential Drawbacks
- You may feel stuck – The Puffy Royal Hybrid mattress is on the softer side, and although firmness is subjective, we think most people over 180 pounds may feel stuck. The upper layers allow plenty of sinkage, and people over 180 pounds might sink even deeper, which can make it difficult to move, switch positions, or get in and out of bed.
- Too plush for stomach sleepers – Even lightweight stomach sleepers would probably prefer a firmer mattress because the Puffy Royal Hybrid is likely too soft to keep the hips level. This is especially the case for people over 130 pounds.
Read our full review of the Puffy Royal Hybrid mattress to learn more about its features and specifications.
Nectar with Adjustable Base – Best Sleep Number p5 Alternative
Product
Firmness
Trial Period
Product
Nectar MattressFirmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10Trial Period
365 nights
Product
Sleep Number 360 p5 Smart MattressFirmness
Multiple firmness optionsTrial Period
100 nightsWhy the Nectar with Adjustable Base Earned Best Sleep Number p5 Alternative
The Nectar itself isn’t a customizable mattress but works excellently with an adjustable base. Pairing the two gives you a similar feel you’d get from a customizable mattress such as the Sleep Number p5, if a little softer because of its all-foam construction.
With an adjustable base, the Nectar bed can be raised or lowered in various ways to accommodate all kinds of sleepers, though it’s best for back and side sleepers—like the p5.
What’s the Nectar Mattress Made Of?
The Nectar is 12 inches tall with five layers. All of the foams it uses are CertiPUR-US® certified.
- Layer 1 – Cover. A breathable cover made with temperature-regulating polyethylene fibers.
- Layer 2 – Gel Memory Foam (2 inches). Gel aids in keeping this layer cooler than traditional memory foam while providing pressure relief.
- Layer 3 – Dynamic Response Foam (3 inches). This responsive foam keeps you aligned and bounces back to your movements.
- Layer 4 – Base (7 inches). This dense and sturdy foam base gives the bed its supportive structure.
- Layer 5 – Lower Cover. A bottom cover seals the layers of the mattress together and prevents it from unwanted shifting.
My Take: The Nectar is one of our top picks if you’re looking for an affordable mattress, but there’s no skimping on quality with this bed. It brings an enviable blend of softness and support that should benefit anyone looking for an alternative to Sleep Number’s high price point.
What We Liked
- Budget-friendly price – Although you still have to add on the cost of an adjustable base, you’ll find that the Nectar is a fantastic budget-friendly option. Plus, if you’re looking to save even more, we recommend shopping around a major holiday since many mattress brands offer bigger discounts.
- More generous trial and warranty deal – If you’re looking for a longer trial and warranty deal, Nectar offers a 365-night trial and their Forever warranty. Conversely, you’ll have 100 nights to test out the Sleep Number 360® p5, with a 15-year limited warranty.
Potential Drawbacks
- Very little bounce – This Nectar mattress is a memory foam bed made entirely out of foam, so it doesn’t have as much bounce as you can find in the Sleep Number 360® p5. Some people enjoy more bounce in a mattress, though it does offer great motion isolation for couples.
- Not for heavy people – Unfortunately, the Nectar mattress likely won’t be as supportive for many heavyweight people above 230 pounds, who could find their spine alignment impacted, particularly if they’re a back or stomach sleeper.
To learn more about Nectar, visit our in-depth Nectar mattress review.
Emma Shift – Best Sleep Number c4 Alternative
Product
Firmness
Trial Period
Product
Sleep Number 360 c4 Smart MattressFirmness
Multiple firmness optionsTrial Period
100 nightsWhy the Emma Shift Earned Best Sleep Number c4 Alternative
The c4 mattress by Sleep Number is one of the brand’s more basic options, meant to attract consumers who want an affordable smart bed. In the same vein, the Emma Shift is an adjustable mattress designed for easy customizability. Coupons and sales often bring the price of a queen down to $1,300, which is $500 less than a full-priced c4.
The valve on the side of the bed allows you to control the firmness of the mattress, and gives it a level of customizability comparable to Sleep Number’s system. The foam on top provides a layer of comfort even at the firmest setting, and the foam base provides support at the softest.
What’s the Emma Shift Made Of?
The Emma Shift is 12 inches tall.
- Cover. A moisture-wicking cover that feels both soft and cool.
- Cool Foam Layer. This layer is infused with graphite and titanium to keep cool while it dampens motion at the top of the mattress.
- Shift Core. A large-pore foam that reacts to body weight to remain firm or soft when needed to support you.
- Smart Valve. Found on the side of the mattress, this valve controls the pressure of the mattress.
- Base Foam. A durable foam layer acts as the foundation for the mattress. The edges are also reinforced to remain sturdy.
Our Take: The Emma Shift is Emma’s answer to the smart bed, though without any electricity or fancy apps. Simply adjust your bed’s firmness to your liking with the Smart Valve. No more compromising with your partner, either, as dual chambers ensure you can both have it your way.
What We Liked
- Generous policies – The Emma Shift comes with a 365-night trial, much longer than Sleep Number’s 100-day trial. It also comes with a 10-year warranty.
- Simple control – The Emma Shift’s internal pressure is controlled by a valve on the side of the bed. Easily reach down and adjust until you find your desired firmness whenever you desire. Customers reported noticing the difference immediately.
Potential Drawbacks
- No presets – Sleep Number allows you to track which firmness level you’re at, but with the Emma Shift, it’s all about what feels right to you. There’s no numbers or marks on the valve to give you a precise reading as you adjust.
- Temperamental – Customers reported it takes a minute to understand how to get the Emma Shift to work, and you may spend some time fiddling with it or going back and forth your first weeks using it.
Our Emma Shift mattress review is coming soon.
Saatva Solaire – Best Sleep Number iLE Alternative
Product
Firmness
Trial Period
Product
Saatva Solaire MattressFirmness
Multiple firmness optionsTrial Period
365 nights
Product
Sleep Number 360 iLE Smart MattressFirmness
Multiple firmness optionsTrial Period
100 nightsWhy the Saatva Solaire Earned Best Sleep Number iLE Alternative
The Saatva Solaire is the most luxurious smart bed on this list, thus we offer it as a possible alternative to the Sleep Number iLE, the most luxurious option in their Innovation line.
While the iLE offers 20 unique firmness levels, the Saatva Solaire offers more than twice that at 50. So, in some cases, this bed might be less of an alternative and more of an upgrade—even though it already comes in $1,000 less than the Sleep Number iLE before sales!
What’s the Saatva Solaire Made Of?
The Saatva Solaire is approximately 13 inches tall.
- Euro Top. An organic, quilted pillow top for soft cushioning.
- Zoned Latex. There are five zones in this hypoallergenic latex layer to balance support and pressure relief.
- Gel Memory Foam. Cooling gel foam adapts to your body’s curves for gentle contouring.
- Moisture Barriers. These layers ensure there’s no unwanted moisture buildup that might contribute to bacterial growth.
- Air Chambers. Vulcanized air chambers inflate and deflate to your desired firmness. Queen-size and larger models feature two air chambers for customized support.
- Edge Enclosure. This houses the bed’s air inflator.
Our Take: “Here’s the wonderful thing about this bed: Whatever sleeping position or firmness you like, you can adjust the mattress to achieve it … I liked playing around with the remotes to find what works for me.” – Michael, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
What We Liked
- Longer trial and warranty deal – The Sleep Number iLE comes with a 100-night trial and a 15-year limited warranty, whereas the Saatva Solaire has a 365-night trial and a lifetime warranty.
- The cooling – The Saatva Solaire offers temperature regulation with its breathable organic cotton cover, gel-infused memory foam, latex (known for sleeping cool), and air chamber.
Potential Drawbacks
- It’s not immediately ready to use – You will have to wait a little before you can use the Saatva Solaire. The air chambers need up to 48 hours to expand fully and up to a week before you can count on the bed maintaining a consistent comfort layer.
- No specialized tracking – The one drawback of the Saatva Solaire in comparison to Sleep Number is the lack of intuitive monitoring of your sleep cycle and preferences. Sleep Number offers a lot of insight into your sleep with their app, including what they call a SleepIQ® score. For the Saatva Solaire, you’ll just have to feel the differences for yourself.
To learn more about the Saatva Solaire, visit our full-length Saatva Solaire mattress review.
Nolah Signature 12” with Adjustable Base – Best Sleep Number i8 Alternative
Product
Firmness
Trial Period
Product
Nolah Signature 12″ MattressFirmness
Soft: 4/10Trial Period
120 nights
Product
Sleep Number 360 i8 Smart MattressFirmness
Multiple firmness optionsTrial Period
100 nightsWhy the Nolah Signature with Adjustable Base Earned Best Sleep Number i8 Alternative
The i8 by Sleep Number is an adjustable bed best-suited to back sleepers. It boasts a breathable cover and thick comfort layer to keep cool while providing cushion. If you’re looking for a traditional mattress with a similar feel, consider the Nolah Signature.
The Nolah Signature is a soft bed, coming in on our firmness scale at 4 out of 10, whereas the i8 has adjustable firmness. Although you can’t adjust the Signature’s firmness, you can adjust its position by placing it on an adjustable base, making it easier to modify how the bed feels. The Nolah Signature also uses proprietary AirFoam™ to keep cool and provide some bounce—both not seen in traditional foam.
What’s the Nolah Signature Mattress Made Of?
The Nolah Signature is 12 inches thick and has five layers.
- Layer 1 – Organic Cotton Cover. Cotton is naturally breathable and soft for a comfortable sleep surface.
- Layer 2 – Plush AirFoam™ (2.5 inches). AirFoam™ is both cool and cushioning.
- Layer 3 – Active Response Foam (1.5 inches). This bouncy foam reacts to your movements and keeps air flowing through the mattress.
- Layer 4 – Firm AirFoam™ (1 inch). Another layer of AirFoam™, albeit firmer, adds support so there’s less pressure on sensitive joints.
- Layer 5 – High-Density Foam Foundation (7 inches). A dense, durable foam base layer.
Our Take: “If you’re interested in a hybrid feel but want an all-foam bed, you’ll love the bounce and cool nature of Nolah’s AirFoam™.” – Emma Mattei, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
What We Liked
- Great pressure relief – While testing the Nolah Signature, Emma pointed out how this softer mattress can be great for those in need of pressure relief, particularly side sleepers. “The Nolah Signature is a softer mattress, so it’s going to excel for side sleepers who want pressure relief in their shoulders and hips.”
- No added shipping costs – Sleep Number requires customers to pay an additional 249 dollars for shipping. It’s worth noting that this includes an in-home setup, but if this doesn’t sound like something you’d need, Nolah offers free shipping on their bed. However, Nolah does charge a 99-dollar fee for returns.
Potential Drawbacks
- Might be too soft – The Sleep Number i8 has an adjustable firmness, whereas the Nolah Signature is rated 4 out of 10 on our firmness scale. This is one of the softest alternatives on our list, and it’s important to consider your sleeping habits and preferences to ensure this bed isn’t too soft for you.
- Not for heavy sleepers – The i8 may work for some heavy sleepers when you adjust its firmness to the highest levels. Unfortunately, Nolah’s Signature model might not be such an easy fit because it’s on the softer side and is unlikely to provide enough support for sleepers over 230 pounds.
Read our full Nolah Signature review if you want more in-depth information about this mattress.
Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe with Adjustable Base – Best Sleep Number m7 Alternative
Product
Firmness
Trial Period
Product
Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe MattressFirmness
Multiple firmness optionsTrial Period
120 nights
Product
Sleep Number 360 m7 Smart MattressFirmness
Multiple firmness optionsTrial Period
100 nightsWhy the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe with Adjustable Based Earned Best Sleep Number m7 Alternative
The m7 model by Sleep Number is one of the coolest the brand offers. Similarly, the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe excels in regulating temperature. It’s not an adjustable bed on its own, but it provides plenty of lift and bounce. It’s also got a firmer feel that should keep everything properly aligned and prevent the possibility of pressure buildup and pain.
Tacking on an adjustable base makes this bed an optimal alternative rather than forking over thousands of dollars for the Sleep Number m7.
What’s the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Made Of?
At 13 inches tall, the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe has six total layers. You can find it in Soft, Medium, or Firm models.
- Layer 1 – Cover. GlacioTex™ starts off the mattress with a cool-to-the-touch surface.
- Layer 2 – CopperFlex™ Foam (1.5 inches). The use of copper and phase change material in this layer aids in temperature conduction and regulation.
- Layer 3 – Supreme Response Comfort Foam (1.5 or 2 inches). This foam layer is plush for cushioning while also bouncing back.
- Layer 4 – Gel Swirl Memory Foam (1 inch) or VariFlex™ Foam (1.5 inches). In the Soft and Medium models, a layer of gel memory foam promotes pressure relief. In the Firm model, a layer of VariFlex™ foam enhances the bed’s firm support.
- Layer 5 – Coil Unit (8.5 inches). Ascension® coils keep you lifted and are reinforced along the perimeter for stronger edges.
- Layer 6 – High-Density Foam Base (0.75 inches). A sturdy foam foundation.
My Take: We use a temperature gun in the studio to measure whether or not a bed traps heat, and I was surprised to see that the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe cooled down significantly after just five minutes. This is a match made in heaven for hot sleepers.
What I Liked
- Keeps up the support – We don’t recommend the m7 for folks who sleep on their stomach since the bed’s firmest setting can still feel too soft. The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe is a different case, the combination of coils and foams able to keep you comfortably aloft.
- Coolest cat around – The m7 is cooling for sure, but we’d reckon that the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe is a bed more intentionally designed with cooling in mind–with everything from its cover to its breathable layers.
Potential Drawbacks
- Might get chilly – While the Aurora Luxe is pretty cool for hot sleepers, some of our testers felt it might get too cold for some—especially if you live in a colder climate.
- Can feel too firm – The m7 is on the softer side compared to the Aurora Luxe, which can be an annoyance for some. But some side sleepers might not get a comfortable sink on the Aurora Luxe, especially if you’re on the lighter side.
Interested in learning more? Check out our Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe mattress review.
Bear Star Hybrid with Adjustable Base – Best Sleep Number p6 Alternative
Product
Firmness
Trial Period
Product
Bear Star Hybrid MattressFirmness
Soft: 6/10Trial Period
120 nights
Product
Sleep Number 360 p6 Smart MattressFirmness
Multiple firmness optionsTrial Period
100 nightsWhy the Bear Star Hybrid with Adjustable Base Earned the Best Sleep Number p6 Alternative
Sleep Number’s p6 model feels firmer than other models due to its thinner comfort layer, so if you’re looking for a bed with a similar feel, consider the Bear Star Hybrid.
While not a customizable mattress, the Bear Star Hybrid has all the cooling capability of the p6 and then some—mostly thanks to its cover, which features Celliant® and HydroCool® technology. It also keeps you lifted while still relieving pressure in areas that can cause problems, like the shoulders and hips. Pair it with an adjustable base to mimic the Sleep Number’s maneuverability.
What’s the Bear Star Hybrid Made Of?
The Bear Star Hybrid is 13 inches high with five layers.
- Layer 1 – Cover. This super cool and soft cover is made with Celliant® material and HydroCool® technology for a refreshing sleep.
- Layer 2 – Serene Gel Foam. Another cool layer of foam for pressure relief.
- Layer 3 – Responsive Comfort Foam. This adaptive foam’s porous structure keeps air flowing through the mattress.
- Layer 4 – Innersprings. Individually encased coils bolster support. The edges feature stronger coils to prevent sagging along the perimeter.
- Layer 5 – High-Density Support Foam. A sturdy, durable foam base.
Our Take: “The Bear Star mattress has a unique five-layer design that provides exceptional pressure relief and support for all sleeping positions.” – Stuart Petty, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
What We Liked
- Standout textile – One thing Bear has that Sleep Number does not is their innovative inclusion of Celliant® fibers. This material is reported to convert excess heat into infrared energy, which then promotes muscle recovery. It’s a boon for athletes or anyone who’s looking for rejuvenation after a long and active day.
- More cooling tech – The p6 has cooling gel in its foam, but so does the Bear Star Hybrid—alongside its other breathable foams and temperature-regulating cover. So, listen up, hot sleepers: when it comes to cooling, we think the Bear Star Hybrid outshines the p6.
Potential Drawbacks
- Comparable trial – The Bear Elite Hybrid has a 120-day trial, which is, to be fair, 20 days more than the Sleep Number—but it’s a little lackluster when compared to some of the year-long trials on this list.
- Too firm for some – The Bear Elite Hybrid is a bit on the firmer side, which can be troublesome for lightweight sleepers who need pressure relief. The p6 also seems to have this problem with its firmer settings, but it does offer the ability to go softer if you need it.
Check out our full Bear Star Hybrid mattress review to learn more about this bed’s features.
What to Look for in a Sleep Number Alternative Mattress
Sleep Number offers many mattress models, so it’s best you first choose the one you like the most. This way, you can narrow down your options when looking for an alternative. However, there are some specific factors to consider when looking for a Sleep Number alternative, and we’ll go over a few.
Type of Mattress
Innerspring Mattresses
Innerspring mattresses usually have only a few layers, including a coil unit and a comfort layer. For this reason, these beds are typically thinner than hybrids that also have coils in their construction. Innerspring mattresses usually aren’t the best to pick as an alternative to Sleep Number, but this really depends on the specific model you’re interested in.
Hybrid Mattresses
Hybrid beds have individually wrapped coils that give these beds some bounce and support. However, they’re different from innerspring beds in that they have multiple comfort layers that make them better at pressure relief, motion isolation, and overall durability. These can easily replace Sleep Number mattresses because they’re usually high-quality, but make sure to go for reputable brands.
Memory Foam Mattresses
Memory foam mattresses are typically great at motion isolation and pressure relief, but they can also provide excellent support. You can choose among various firmness levels, and they typically pair nicely with many adjustable bases, making them a good choice as Sleep Number alternatives. Memory foam beds usually contain poly foam support layers, as well as gel infusions to help prevent overheating.
Latex Mattresses
Latex beds are good if you’re a hot sleeper and a fan of more responsive beds. Unlike memory foam, latex has a quicker response and is unlikely to make you feel stuck in a mattress. Latex is more breathable than memory foam, so the construction is unlikely to overheat. Plus, latex is highly durable, so these often last longer than other mattress types.
Other Considerations When Shopping for a Sleep Number Bed Alternative
Sleeping Position
Sleep Number mattresses can accommodate many sleeping positions when you lift or lower different parts of the bed. However, not every mattress can do that, at least not without an adjustable base.
For this reason, consider your preferred sleeping position and how you would like your bed to match it. Some beds are suitable for all sleeping positions, but others may be too soft or firm.
Weight/Body Type of Sleepers
How much you weigh affects how you experience a bed’s firmness. In other words, if a mattress has a mid-range firmness, but you weigh over 230 pounds, you’re likely to experience it as softer than a person weighing under 130 pounds would.
Similarly, you want to consider your body frame and whether certain body parts are more prone to pressure buildup. For example, do you have broad shoulders? If so, you may want a softer bed that’s good at pressure relief to prevent pressure from building up in the shoulders when you sleep on the side.
Read More: Best Mattress for Heavy People
Firmness
As mentioned, firmness is subjective, and what you may find to be firm, someone else might find medium or even soft. This mostly depends on your body frame, weight, and preferred sleeping position.
Side sleepers usually prefer softer beds to relieve pressure, whereas back sleepers usually enjoy medium to firm mattresses, depending on their body weight. Stomach sleepers prefer firmer beds because they typically offer more support for the hips.
Cooling
Cooling is a major factor to consider if you’re a hot sleeper. If you often sweat and overheat when sleeping, certain cooling features can help you achieve a better night’s sleep.
Hybrid, latex, and innerspring mattresses run cooler than memory foam. However, manufacturers now add infusions like gel and copper to help cool memory foam and prevent it from overheating. Many brands also have proprietary cooling technologies and cooling covers to provide more comfort for those who sleep hot.
Explore our picks for the Best Cooling Mattresses.
Motion Isolation
Motion isolation is usually the most important for co-sleepers and couples. Partners with different sleeping schedules appreciate motion isolation as it allows them to sleep undisturbed by one another. Memory foam beds are typically the best at isolating motion, but even hybrids with multiple memory foam comfort layers can excel at this.
Sex
Sexually active couples often enjoy a bouncy bed. Latex, innerspring, and hybrid beds often have more bounce in them since latex foam and coils are buoyant materials. While bounce is great, too much of it can affect motion isolation, so ideally, you and your partner should consider a bed that’s able to balance both these qualities.
Read More: Best Beds for Sex
Pressure Relief
Sleep Number mattresses have an adjustable firmness, and with that, they can provide more or less sinkage and pressure relief.
Alternative mattresses may also have an adjustable firmness that allows you to achieve the same thing. If not, you may want to focus on a softer bed if pressure relief is your main concern.
Related: Best Mattress for Pressure Relief
Even a mid-range firmness may work, depending on your body weight, as it should allow a balance of pressure relief in the hips, knees, and shoulders while ensuring proper spine alignment.
Edge Support
Edge support is another feature in which Sleep Number mattresses excel. However, other brands can achieve this as well.
Many companies include different reinforcements, such as strong coils or denser foam, around the perimeter to ensure the edges stay consistent, without collapsing under weight. Edge support may not be important for single individuals, but couples and co-sleepers usually appreciate having consistent support along the perimeter when they spread out.
Budget
Sleep Number mattresses are expensive, which means they won’t fit within everyone’s budget. That’s where Sleep Number alternatives can help. They may not offer all the bells and whistles of a Sleep Number bed, but they come with plenty of advantages, including a lower price in many cases.
Explore the Best Budget Mattresses.
Best Sleep Number Alternative Mattress FAQs
What is the lifespan of a Sleep Number bed?
Sleep Number beds are designed to last for a minimum of 15 years, and they all come with a 15-year limited warranty.
What is the most affordable Sleep Number bed?
The most affordable Sleep Number is the Sleep Number 360® c2, at 1,099 dollars for a Queen. It’s the most basic model, with an 8-inch base and a 2-inch comfort layer.
What’s the difference between an adjustable base and a smart bed?
An adjustable base can be used with an existing compatible mattress to raise the head and/or foot of the bed. Some adjustable bases come with features like under-bed lights, vibrating alarms, and massage settings.
A smart bed is a mattress with built-in high-tech features. In Sleep Number’s case, this means adjustable firmness and sleep tracking technology, which is measured using pressure sensors in the mattress. Sleep Number also sells a range of adjustable FlexFit™ smart bases that help you get more out of your mattress, with features like Partner Snore, zero gravity, and foot warming.
Julia Forbes
Lead Product Tester
About Author
Julia is the Lead Reviewer at Sleep Advisor, specializing in testing out mattresses and sleep accessories – she’s in the right line of work, because she loves to sleep.
Stomach Sleeper