Choosing between Tempur-Pedic and Sleep Number can be challenging, as both are premium mattress brands offering high-quality products. Whether you prefer a traditional memory foam mattress or an adjustable airbed, this guide covers everything you need to know about these two brands, including firmness, feel, performance for different sleep positions, materials, pricing, and more.
Firmness and Feel of Sleep Number vs. Tempur-Pedic Mattresses
The primary difference between Sleep Number and Tempur-Pedic mattresses lies in how they handle firmness and feel.
| Feature | Sleep Number | Tempur-Pedic |
|---|---|---|
| Firmness | Adjustable via air chambers (1-100 scale) | Pre-set firmness levels |
| Customization | Fully customizable for each sleeper | No firmness adjustment post-purchase |
| Feel | Adjustable, offering soft to firm | Slow-moving memory foam, deep contouring |
| Best For | Couples, people seeking adjustable firmness | Side sleepers, those who enjoy memory foam |
Sleep Number: Adjustable Firmness
- Customizable: Sleep Number uses adjustable air chambers that allow sleepers to select firmness levels from 1 to 100, where 1 is the softest and 100 is the firmest.
- Couples’ Comfort: The ability to adjust firmness independently on both sides makes it ideal for couples with different firmness preferences.
- Smart Bed Technology: Sleep Number offers models with SleepIQ® technology, which tracks your sleep and adjusts the bed automatically throughout the night to improve sleep quality.
Tempur-Pedic: Classic Memory Foam Feel
- Memory Foam Comfort: Tempur-Pedic mattresses use their proprietary TEMPUR® material, a slow-moving memory foam known for its deep contouring and pressure relief.
- Pre-set Firmness: Available in different firmness levels (e.g., medium-firm for the TEMPUR-Cloud), Tempur-Pedic mattresses do not allow for post-purchase adjustability.
Sleep Number vs. Tempur-Pedic for Different Sleep Positions
Choosing the right mattress depends heavily on your sleep position. Here’s how each brand performs for side, back, and stomach sleepers:
| Sleeping Position | Sleep Number | Tempur-Pedic |
|---|---|---|
| Side Sleepers | Adjustable softness can provide pressure relief | Ideal for side sleepers due to deep contouring |
| Back Sleepers | Medium-firm settings provide good spinal alignment | Great for back sleepers with medium-firm models |
| Stomach Sleepers | Firmer settings prevent excessive hip sinkage | May be too soft for heavier stomach sleepers |
Side Sleepers
- Sleep Number: Sleepers can adjust the bed to softer settings to relieve pressure on their shoulders and hips, making it a good option for side sleepers.
- Tempur-Pedic: The TEMPUR material is known for providing deep pressure relief, which is especially beneficial for side sleepers who experience discomfort at pressure points.
Back Sleepers
- Sleep Number: The adjustable air chambers allow back sleepers to find their ideal firmness for proper spinal alignment, especially around the lumbar region.
- Tempur-Pedic: The medium-firm models, like the TEMPUR-Cloud, provide ample support for back sleepers, keeping the spine in neutral alignment.
Stomach Sleepers
- Sleep Number: Stomach sleepers generally require a firmer mattress to prevent hip sinking, which can lead to back pain. Sleep Number’s adjustability allows users to create a firmer surface.
- Tempur-Pedic: Tempur-Pedic may not offer the level of firmness needed for heavier stomach sleepers, especially in softer models.
Materials and Construction
Both brands offer different mattress constructions, but Sleep Number focuses on air technology, while Tempur-Pedic relies on memory foam.
| Feature | Sleep Number | Tempur-Pedic |
|---|---|---|
| Support System | Adjustable air chambers | Multiple layers of TEMPUR® memory foam |
| Comfort Layers | PlushFit foam, zoned support in select models | TEMPUR-ES® foam, TEMPUR-APR+™ foam |
| Edge Support | Good due to foam perimeter | Weaker in foam-only models, better in hybrids |
Sleep Number
- Adjustable Air Chambers: Sleep Number uses adjustable air chambers as the primary support system, providing a customizable firmness experience.
- Zoned Support: Higher-end models like the Sleep Number 360® i8 Smart Bed offer zoned support for targeted spinal alignment.
- Edge Support: Sleep Number mattresses provide excellent edge support, thanks to a firm foam perimeter that stabilizes the mattress.
Tempur-Pedic
- Memory Foam Layers: Tempur-Pedic’s proprietary TEMPUR® material offers slow-moving memory foam that contours to your body.
- Hybrid Models: Some models, like the TEMPUR-Adapt® Hybrid, combine memory foam with coils for better edge support and durability.
Performance Comparison
| Feature | Sleep Number | Tempur-Pedic |
|---|---|---|
| Motion Isolation | Good, but not as effective as foam | Excellent, especially in all-foam models |
| Temperature Regulation | Good airflow due to air chambers | May sleep warmer, but some models have cooling tech |
| Durability | 8-10 years | 10-15 years with proper care |
| Noise Level | Air pump may produce noise during adjustment | Silent in use |
Price Comparison
| Mattress Size | Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-LuxeAdapt® | Sleep Number 360® c4 | Price Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Twin XL | $3,699 | $1,899 | $1,800 |
| Queen | $4,199 | $1,899 | $2,300 |
| King | $4,899 | $2,399 | $2,500 |
| Split King | $7,398 | $2,699 | $4,699 |
Tempur-Pedic is positioned as a luxury brand, with prices significantly higher than Sleep Number. The TEMPUR-LuxeAdapt® is among the most expensive models, with a Split King costing around $7,398, while Sleep Number’s 360® c4 comes in at $2,699 for the same size.
FAQs: More Thorough Answers
Which Mattress is Better for Back Pain?
- Tempur-Pedic: The TEMPUR-LuxeAdapt® provides deep contouring and is great for back sleepers who need extra lumbar support.
- Sleep Number: For those with back pain, Sleep Number’s adjustable firmness allows you to find the perfect level of support, making it a versatile option for varying pain levels.
How Does Each Brand Perform for Heavyweight Sleepers?
- Tempur-Pedic: Heavier sleepers may prefer the TEMPUR-LuxeAdapt® for its durable and supportive memory foam, which resists sagging over time.
- Sleep Number: Sleep Number’s adjustability allows for firmer settings to support heavier individuals, but some models may not be durable enough for long-term use by heavyweight sleepers.
Which Mattress is More Affordable?
- Sleep Number: Sleep Number is generally more affordable than Tempur-Pedic, especially for entry-level models.
- Tempur-Pedic: Tempur-Pedic is more expensive, but the brand offers premium materials and longer durability, which may justify the higher price for some buyers.
Final Thoughts: Tempur-Pedic vs. Sleep Number
Both Tempur-Pedic and Sleep Number offer high-quality mattresses with different benefits.
Choose Tempur-Pedic if:
- You prefer the slow-moving memory foam feel with deep contouring.
- You are a side sleeper or have joint pain that requires pressure relief.
- You are willing to invest in a luxury mattress for long-term use.
Choose Sleep Number if:
- You need adjustable firmness to tailor the mattress to your changing needs or preferences.
- You and your partner have different firmness preferences and want independent adjustability on each side of the bed.
- You value smart technology like sleep tracking and automatic adjustments throughout the night.
- You want a more affordable option without compromising on quality.
Final Comparison Summary: Tempur-Pedic vs. Sleep Number
| Feature | Tempur-Pedic | Sleep Number |
|---|---|---|
| Firmness | Pre-set firmness levels (soft, medium, firm) | Adjustable firmness (1-100 scale) |
| Feel | Memory foam, slow-moving, deep contouring | Adjustable support with air chambers |
| Best for Couples | Great motion isolation but no independent firmness | Independent adjustability for each side |
| Motion Isolation | Excellent, especially in all-foam models | Good, but some motion transfer in air-based models |
| Edge Support | Good in hybrid models, average in all-foam models | Excellent, especially in higher-end models |
| Cooling Features | Cooling covers and gel-infused foams in some models | Better airflow due to air chambers, some cooling tech |
| Smart Technology | No smart features | SleepIQ® smart bed technology, sleep tracking |
| Sex Suitability | May feel too soft or slow for movement, less bounce | Adjustable firmness provides more responsiveness, better for movement |
| Price Range | More expensive, luxury price points | More affordable, especially entry-level models |
| Trial Period | 90 nights | 100 nights |
| Warranty | 10 years | 25 years (prorated after 2 years) |
Conclusion
When choosing between Tempur-Pedic and Sleep Number, it all comes down to your personal preferences and sleep needs.
- Tempur-Pedic is the best choice for those who love the traditional memory foam feel, need excellent pressure relief for side sleeping, or want a mattress that contours closely to their body. It’s also ideal for people with chronic pain who benefit from the deep cushioning that Tempur-Pedic offers. However, Tempur-Pedic can be expensive, so it’s a better fit for those who are ready to invest in long-lasting comfort.
- Sleep Number is the go-to for sleepers who want customizable firmness, especially couples with different firmness preferences. Its smart technology, with built-in sleep tracking and automatic adjustments, makes it a unique option. Sleep Number is also more affordable in general, making it an accessible option for shoppers who value adjustability without breaking the bank.
Ultimately, the best choice is the one that aligns with your sleep style, comfort preferences, and budget. Make sure to take advantage of the trial periods offered by both brands, which will allow you to test the mattress in your own home and ensure it meets your specific sleep needs.