Mattress Type Comparison

Based on 16,000+ Actual Consumer Experiences

May 30, 2013

The advantages and disadvantages below are true for each mattress type overall as a group; individual brands and mattresses may have somewhat different pros and cons. Click on a mattress type below for a more detailed evaluation and for brand ratings based on actual consumer experiences.

	PROS	CONS
Innerspring	Widely available. Good initial comfort and support. Many models inexpensive. Firmness variety. Consumer familiarity.	Below average owner satisfaction. Below average durability / lifespan. Below average pain relief. Motion isolation can be limited. Some noise possible.
Memory Foam	Highest in owner satisfaction. Fairly wide availability. Above average pain relief. Good motion isolation. Several brands/models affordable. No noise.	Initial odor / off gassing possible. Heat retention possible. High-density types difficult to move on.
Air	Adjustable support / firmness. Each side can have own setting. Above average pain relief. Above average longevity. Relatively lightweight.	Some noise from air pumps. Mechanical in nature. Uneven sleep surface possible. Limited availability. Some models expensive.
Latex	Above average pain relief. No noise. Often made with natural material. Above average motion isolation.	Somewhat above average price. Heat retention possible. Initial odor possible. Heavy. Limited availability.
Water	Temperature control. Contours to body. Good longevity possible. Fairly inexpensive. Largely dust mite free.	Can be punctured. Heavy. Extensive set up / assembly. Maintenance. Noise and initial odor possible.
Futon	Often inexpensive. Dual-use potential (sofa and bed) Variety of styles / colors.	Below average longevity. Too thin / firm for some people. Initial odor possible.

11 Areas of Comparison

Each link below provides a comparison of the mattress types (innerspring, memory foam, air, latex, water, futon) for that particular issue.

Mattress type satisfaction ratings
Price ranges and affordability
Longevity / lifespan
Pain reduction
Initial odor / off gassing
Heat retention / sleeping hot
Motion isolation
Flipping / rotating requirements
Weight
Noise
Sex friendly

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