Here at Sleep Advisor, our Sleep Certified experts use a refined mattress and product testing process to give you unbiased product suggestions… Read our full product review process.
Just Updated
You’ve been looking for a Purple mattress alternative, and our team just tested beds with complementary features to a Purple mattress.
Purple is one of the best and most innovative mattress brands out there, providing comfort, innovation, and spectacular pressure relief. The key is in the Purple’s hyper-elastic polymer material, giving you all that in one single mattress.
Although Purple mattresses have a lot to offer, some people might want an alternative to help give them more selection in their mattress-buying process. For example, some people want pressure relief but for a lower price. Similarly, others may want the Purple’s bounce without any new materials that might take getting used to.
I tested several mattresses by Purple as well as many from the company’s competitors. In this article, I am comparing Purple beds with other models on the market that could serve as excellent alternatives. I’ll cover the materials, overall feel, and more to help you decide.
Back Sleepers, Back Pain, Stomach Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Couples
Couples, Back Sleepers, Hip Pain
Hot Sleepers, Back Sleepers
Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors
Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hot Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors
Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors
Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hot Sleepers, Seniors
Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Seniors
Sleep Advisor’s Testing Methodology
At Sleep Advisor, we test mattresses in different ways to determine how well they perform and who they’d fit the best. We test for things like pressure relief, motion isolation, edge support, cooling, and support in general, among other things. We also evaluate how comfortable a bed feels in each sleep position.
For this roundup, we’re focusing specifically on the Purple bed lineup and mattresses that our team feels are worthy competitors to this brand. To learn more about Sleep Advisor’s testing methodology, visit our product review process page.
As a lead product tester at Sleep Advisor, I test mattresses every week in our facility.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
This mattress is made of memory foam and other poly foam layers.
Price
$934 – $2,121 (before any discounts)
Firmness
Firm. We rated the Nectar a 7.5 out of 10.
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Back Sleepers
The Nectar provides a blend of comfortable pressure relief and firm support that should suit most back sleepers.
Couples
Thanks to the Nectar’s ability to absorb motion, you should be able to sleep through your partner’s movements.
Firm Mattress Fans
At 7.5 out of 10, this bed is on the firmer side, even though it has memory foam on top.
Pros of the Nectar Mattress
This bed offers pressure relief alongside its support
We were impressed by how well the perimeter of the Nectar held up, making it good for spreading out or sitting on the edges
Memory foam tends to trap heat, but the bed’s cooling cover counteracts this
Cons of the Nectar Mattress
The foams on the Nectar aren’t very bouncy, so consider looking at the best hybrid mattresses if responsiveness is important to you
It’s on the firmer side, so if you need a softer bed, you might want to consider Nectar’s most luxurious model, the Nectar Luxe
Shipping
Free shipping, except for Alaska and Hawaii ($99)
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
Full refund within trial period
The Advisor Says: We believe that Nectar offers a quality bed backed up by generous policies, and for under $1,000 for a queen (after discounts). If you’re looking for a firmer foam mattress on a budget, the Nectar Classic has you covered.
Why Nectar Earned Best Purple Plus® Alternative
The Purple Plus® is one of the mattresses in Purple’s “Essential” collection. It has the same construction as the brand’s original mattress, but twice the amount of base support foam, which ups the bed’s motion isolation and slightly lessens its bounce.
The Nectar is a stellar substitute: it’s also a motion isolation star, with lots of pressure relief and little springiness to its feel. It’s often priced more affordably than the Purple Plus®, even though it’s a full inch taller.
My Take: The Nectar is packed with premium materials that the company proudly stands behind. They’re so certain that their mattress is a fantastic fit for most sleep preferences that they offer a super competitive sleep trial and warranty, just to ease your mind.
What’s the Nectar Mattress Made Of?
The Nectar mattress has five layers and stands 12 inches tall. It uses CertiPUR-US® certified foams in its construction.
Inside the Nectar
Layer 1 – Cover. Breathable polyethylene fibers regulate temperature at the mattress surface.
Layer 3 – Dynamic Response Foam (3 inches). A layer of firmer, more responsive foam promotes alignment and aids in isolating motion.
Layer 4 – Base (8 inches). This durable layer acts as the foundation for the mattress.
Layer 5 – Lower Cover. Stitched to keep your mattress and everything within it in its proper place.
Customer Reviews of the Nectar
With thousands of reviews on Nectar’s website, the Nectar mattress has an average 4.8 out of 5 stars. One common customer complaint about the Nectar mattress is its longer-than-average break-in period, while many customers praise its excellent value and comfort once fully settled.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
Multiple firmness options (Soft, Medium, and Firm). We tested the Medium and found it skewed soft, around a 5 out of 10 on our firmness scale.
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, short full, queen, short queen, Olympic queen, king, short king, California king, split California king, RV king
Back Sleepers
This bed felt wonderful to our testers when they rested on their backs, with a nice mix of support and pressure relief.
Side Sleepers
The foams on top are plush enough to cradle hips and shoulders.
Hot Sleepers
This bed handily passed our cooling tests with a score of 4.5 out of 5.
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Pros
We felt very lifted and yet cushioned by this hybrid, awarding it perfect scores in both support and pressure relief
It’s a very bouncy bed that should encourage rather than hinder movement
For a hybrid of its caliber, this bed is priced extremely affordably
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Cons
It’s too soft for stomach sleepers, who will need more support beneath their hips; read up on the best mattresses for stomach sleepers to see other options
The Medium model felt very plush; if you’re looking for a firmer hybrid that’s also pretty customizable, check out the Saatva Classic
Shipping
Free shipping inside the contiguous United States
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Returns
Free returns
The Advisor Says: For shoppers on a budget, the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is one of the top hybrids we recommend. It’s simultaneously soft and bouncy, with three firmness options and decent cooling power.
Why the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Earned Best Purple RestorePlus™ Hybrid Alternative
If you like the bouncy feel of the Purple RestorePlus™ mattress but want to go easy on your budget, The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is an excellent choice.
Both mattresses do an excellent job of supporting the lumbar area, keeping your spine aligned well for side and back sleeping. This is great news for those worried about back pain from an unsupportive mattress.
This hybrid doesn’t have many bells or whistles, which can be a drawback for some—especially if you’re considering a tricked-out bed like the Purple RestorePlus™—but it does come in multiple firmness levels for an added level of customization.
Our Take: “We think this bed would be great for combination sleepers. Because it’s so responsive, adjusting positions is super easy. Plus, with the supportive yet comfortable feel, this bed is super versatile for all sleeping positions.” – Emma Mattei, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
What’s the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Made Of?
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid has five total layers and stands 12.25 inches tall. It’s available in Soft, Medium, or Firm models.
A Look Inside the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
Layer 1 – Quilted Top. This breathable cover should provide a comfortable sleep surface that won’t sag under your weight.
Layer 2 – Supreme Response Comfort Foam. A layer of elastic foam quickly bounces back as it contours to your body.
Layer 3 – VariFlex™ Transition Foam. This layer is featured in the Soft and Medium models to allow for a deeper sink.
Layer 4 – Coils. Individually wrapped coils make up the main support unit of this bed; they’re also reinforced along the perimeter for stronger edges.
Layer 5 – Flex Base. A simple, durable foundation.
Customer Reviews of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
On Brooklyn Bedding’s website, the Brooklyn Signature has over 10,000 reviews and a score of 4.7 out of 5 stars. The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress receives praise from customers for its versatility with different firmness options, but some have mentioned that it may produce slight noise when bearing weight.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
3.9
Nolah
Nolah Original Hybrid
Zoned Foam and Coils
Copper for Cooling
Tencel™ Cover
Hybrid
120 nights
Free shipping minus AK and HI
Cyber Monday Sale
35% off sitewide + 2 free pillows + $150 off BedJet with mattress purchase See Details
Medium-firm, about a 6.5 out of 10 on our firmness scale.
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, short queen, king, short king, California king, split king
Side Sleepers
Three layers of comfort foam above the springs provide 3.5 inches of cushion, total. That’s a lot of pressure relief for your shoulders and hips.
Back Sleepers
The zoned layers should give your low back the lift it needs in this position.
Hybrid Fans
This bed should have a classic hybrid feel, with buoyancy and bounce from the springs.
Nolah Original Hybrid Pros
Both the coils and a layer of foam are “zoned” in this mattress, meaning it should feel more supportive beneath the lower back and more pillowy beneath the shoulders
This bed features the brand’s AirFoam™ ICE, which is allegedly cooler and more pressure-relieving than traditional memory foam
Combination sleepers should find it easy to reposition with help from the bed’s responsive springs
Nolah Original Hybrid Cons
Stomach sleepers may not get enough lift beneath their hips from this hybrid
It won’t have the trademark sink of an all-foam model; if you want your bed to hug you, check out the best memory foam mattresses
Shipping
Free shipping within the contiguous United States
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
$99 fee for mattress pickup
The Advisor Says: Nolah added springs to its Original model and created a bouncier, sturdier bed. It should be a haven for back and side sleepers with its zoned AirFoam™ ICE and coil unit, though it doesn’t have as much height or as many bells and whistles as the upgraded Nolah models.
Why the Nolah Original Hybrid Earned the Best Purple Original Alternative
If you like the simple construction of the Purple Original mattress but want something firmer, I think the Nolah Original Hybrid would be a good alternative. The GelFlex® Grid in the Purple Original makes it quite soft, but the Nolah Original Hybrid is more of a medium-firm mattress.
Heavier people might find it softer, but overall, it provides a balance of pressure relief and support for back and side sleeping.
Both mattresses have cooling features, but the Nolah Original is a hybrid mattress with coils that encourage airflow. (If you want an all-foam alternative instead, try the Nolah Original.)
Our Take: This versatile hybrid should be a good option for people with back pain, couples, and hot sleepers.
What’s the Nolah Original Hybrid Made Of?
The Nolah Original Hybrid is 12.25 inches thick, so it’s a good option if you want a bed that’s taller than the 9.5-inch Purple Original. The construction starts with a Tencel™ cover.
Inside the Nolah
Layer 1 – Zoned AirFoam™. This layer is hole-punched in zones to provide more flexibility and support in different areas. It’s softer around the shoulders and firmer in the lumbar region for more support.
Layer 2 – EverAdapt Transition Foam. This foam adds more structure to the AirFoam™ above, giving it support while also enhancing motion isolation near the surface of the bed.
Layer 3 – HDMax™ Tri-Zone™. The coils in the Nolah Original Hybrid are zoned and individually wrapped to adapt to your body, supporting the heaviest parts without transferring too much movement.
Layer 4 – Recycled Fiber Mattress Pad. This layer comes under the coils to give them more structure and stability. This is wrapped in a protective border fabric that acts as a lower cover.
Customer Reviews of the Nolah Original Hybrid Mattress
This is a newer mattress from the Nolah brand so there are no customer reviews available yet on the Nolah website. However, the all-foam Nolah Original, another alternative we mentioned above, has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Some customers have noted that this Nolah Original mattress may have less edge support, yet many customers praise its superior pressure relief as a significant advantage.
We are currently writing an in-depth review of the new Nolah Original Hybrid.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.0
Helix
Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress
Sleeps Cool
Pillow Top
Zoned Support
Hybrid
100 nights
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Cyber Monday Sale – Extended
Save 20% sitewide + 2 FREE pillows with any mattress ($150+ value) See Details
Medium-firm with a cushiony top. On our firmness scale, it registered as a 6 out of 10.
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, short queen, king, California king, RV king
Back Sleepers
Our testers enjoyed this bed the most on their backs, and appreciated the built-in lumbar support.
Hot Sleepers
This bed received a perfect cooling score due to its gel-infused foam, Tencel™ cover, and hybrid design.
Couples
It’s a solid bed for couples, with strong edges, cooling capability, and decent (but not awesome) motion isolation.
Helix Midnight Luxe Pros
A combination of strong, zoned coils and cushiony top layers make the Helix Midnight Luxe great at providing comfortable lift
This same balanced feeling mentioned above makes the mattress great for most sleeping positions and body types
It has a bit more sink than the Helix Midnight, so may feel like a cozy upgrade if you were considering that bed
Helix Midnight Luxe
Plus-size stomach sleepers may still find it too soft for their liking; they need a mattress with even more support beneath the hip region
There was some pressure detected under our lightweight tester’s shoulders when she tried this bed on her side; check out the best beds for shoulder pain if you need an alternative
Shipping
Free shipping within the contiguous United States
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
15-year warranty
Returns
Free returns
The Advisor Says: An upgraded version of the Helix Midnight, this bed added zoned support for more lift beneath the lower back as well as a plush pillow top. It should appeal to people (and back sleepers in particular) who want just a bit of comfy sink from the top layer of their hybrid mattress.
Why the Helix Midnight Luxe Earned the Best Purple RestorePremier™ Hybrid Alternative
If you like the RestorePremier™ by Purple, I think you should also like the Midnight Luxe by Helix. Both mattresses are hybrids, so there’s bounce, support, and airflow included with both models.
Another feature to point out is that both beds are good at temperature regulation. My teammate Loren tested the Helix Midnight Luxe, giving it a 5 out of 5 for cooling, which is great news for hot sleepers. The Midnight Luxe might allow more sinkage, but both beds have plenty of responsiveness towards the top layers, making it easier to switch positions and move around.
Our Take: “This bed works for all body types. So whether you’re on the lighter side or the heavier side, this mattress should work for you.” – Loren Bullock, Former Lead Product Tester.
What’s the Helix Midnight Luxe Made Of?
The Helix Midnight Luxe is a bed-in-a-box mattress with a 13.5-inch profile. The foams are CertiPUR-US® certified, and there’s also a Tencel™ cover for temperature regulation.
A Look Inside the Helix Midnight Luxe
Layer 1 – The Pillow Top. The pillow top is made from memory foam to provide contouring comfort and soothing pressure relief. Additionally, it has copper for cooling.
Layer 2 – Memory Foam Plus. This 2-inch layer adapts to your body, helping with weight distribution and support.
Layer 3 – High-Grade Poly Foam. This is the Midnight Luxe’s transition layer that should help ease you into the support layers without letting you sink through.
Layer 4 – The Innerspring Unit. This is the bed’s main support layer, featuring 1,000+ individually wrapped coils. These are 8 inches tall and zoned to support your body where needed the most. Loren said, “The zoned support layer does a good job at pressure and weight distribution, so it’s a good option for folks with aches and pains.”
Layer 5 – DuraDense Foam. This is the bed’s base layer that gives additional stability to the upper layers. It’s said to help with motion isolation, but Loren found the bed performs average in this department.
Customer Reviews of the Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress
On Helix’s website, the mattress scores 4.5 out of 5 stars. Customers appreciate the Helix Midnight Luxe mattress for its customized support but have reported that it may not be the best option for those who prefer an exceptionally soft sleep surface.
The WinkBed – Best Purple Restore™ Hybrid Alternative
Choose Your Firmness
Sleep Advisor Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
Multiple firmness options (Softer, Luxury Firm, Firmer, and Plus). We tested the Luxury Firm and placed it at a 6 out of 10 on our scale, which is comfortably medium-firm.
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Combination Sleepers
Its springiness makes it easy to change your sleeping position, and it adapts well to each one.
Hot Sleepers
Gel-infused foams, airflow around the coils, and a breathable cover earned the WinkBed a high cooling score.
Spine Alignment
Its zoned coils and “LumbarLayer™” of foam help to keep the lower back supported and aligned with the rest of the spine.
WinkBed Pros
There are four firmness options available for this bed, including one designed specifically for plus-size sleepers
It’s so springy that it feels like it’s helping you to move around on top of it
The zoned support was really noticeable during testing, and helped to keep our lumbar regions lifted
WinkBed Cons
Its motion isolation isn’t the greatest, so if you’re a restless sleeper who shares a bed, look elsewhere
It has a classic hybrid feel that keeps you on top of the mattress, rather than sinking in; if you want more of a hug from your bed, browse the best soft mattresses
Shipping
Free within the contiguous United States
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
Free returns
The Advisor Says: Our testers often compare the WinkBed to a luxury hotel mattress, which is no surprise given its handcrafted touches and elegant hybrid design. It’s also one of the most customizable beds out there, with a firmness level for every body type.
Why the WinkBed Earned the Best Purple Restore™ Hybrid Alternative
One of the qualities that stands for both the WinkBed and the Purple Restore™ Hybrid is versatility. Both mattresses have multiple firmness options, so you have plenty to pick from.
My colleague, Loren, tested the Luxury Firm WinkBed, which I think would be the best alternative to the Purple Restore™ Hybrid Firm. Another feature to point out is that both mattresses have that traditional hybrid feel with bounce, breathability, and support.
Our Take: “It works for all body types, no matter if you’re lightweight or heavyweight.” Loren Bullock, Former Lead Product Tester.
What’s the WinkBed Made Of?
The WinkBed is a “luxury hotel bed,” as Loren put it. The luxury feel and performance come from its high-quality construction that features premium materials. One thing to keep in mind is that the WinkBed layers are different with every firmness model you choose. This mattress is 13.5 inches tall with the following layers in the Luxury Firm model:
Inside the WinkBed
Layer 1 – The Pillow Top. The construction starts with a Tencel™ cover quilted to 2 inches of gel-infused foam, which helps with cooling and pressure relief.
Layer 2 – The Innerspring Unit. The WinkBed’s main support system features 8-inch individually wrapped coils with zoned support in the back area. Loren reported “great weight distribution and alignment,” so I’d say this is good for those with back pain.
Layer 3 – Extra-Edge™ Support. The WinkBed has additional coils in the perimeter to support the sleeper when sitting or sleeping near the edge of the bed.
Customer Reviews of the WinkBed Mattress
On the WinkBeds site, the WinkBed earns 4.8 out of 5 stars. One drawback of the WinkBed mattress is that it might be too expensive for budget-conscious shoppers, but overall it offers excellent durability and customizable firmness options.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.3
Bear
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
Phase Change Material
Zoned Support
Multiple Firmnesses
Hybrid
120 nights
Free shipping minus HI and AK
December Deals
Use code DEAL30 for 30% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase See Details
Multiple firmness options (Soft, Medium, or Firm). We tested the Medium version and placed it at a 6 out of 10 on our scale, which means it’s medium-firm with some cushion.
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Back Sleepers
The lumbar support on this bed felt fantastic under our lower backs.
Bounce Fans
This is an extraordinarily responsive bed with a 5 out of 5 testing score in the bounce category.
Couples
Strong edge support, above-average cooling, and decent motion isolation make it a good pick for couples.
Bear Elite Hybrid Pros
You’ll have three firmness options to choose from
We got some real air while jumping on this bed, and never felt restricted by or stuck in its upper foam layers when moving around
The zoned coils gave our lower backs noticeable support and kept our spines aligned
Bear Elite Hybrid Cons
There was some pressure buildup around the shoulders while resting on our sides; the best mattresses for pressure relief list will have better recommendations for people with shoulder pain.
The motion isolation is pretty good for a hybrid, but it’s still not amazing
Shipping
Free inside the contiguous United States
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
Free returns
The Advisor Says: This is a memorably bouncy and supportive hybrid with state-of-the-art cooling elements. It had a delightful balance of cushion and lift for back and stomach sleeping in particular.
Why the Bear Elite Hybrid Earned the Best Purple RejuvenatePlus™ Alternative
The Bear Elite Hybrid is slightly softer than the Purple RejuvenatePlus™, but the two have a similar feel when it comes to responsiveness. If you’re a fan of softer and more cooling beds, I’d suggest the Bear Elite Hybrid as a good alternative.
The Bear feels very cool, so it’s excellent for hot sleepers as opposed to the Purple RejuvenatePlus™, doing very little in terms of cooling. My colleague, Stuart, tested the Bear Elite Hybrid, saying, “It contoured to my hips and shoulders really really well.”
We all have different budgets, so it’s up to you to decide whether the Bear Elite Hybrid is worth it. The queen size is over $2,000—but then again, the Purple RejuvenatePlus™ in a queen size is over $6,000.
Our Take: “It’s a real step up from the already awesome Bear Hybrid.” – Stuart Petty, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
What’s the Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Made Of?
The Bear Elite Hybrid is 14 inches tall with a hand-quilted cooling cover.
Inside the Bear Elite Hybrid
Layer 1 – Copper Infused Memory Foam. This layer comes right under the quilted cover, featuring antimicrobial and cooling properties. It does a good job of cradling your body while also keeping it aligned.
Layer 2 – Dynamic Transition Foam. Gentle foam in this layer contours your body while ensuring you don’t bottom out to the coils.
Layer 3 – The Coils. The Bear Elite Hybrid has individually wrapped coils that adapt to your body separately. The center of the bed features higher-gauge coils for added lumbar support.
Layer 4 – The Base. This layer is made from high-density foam to support the upper layers, enhancing the bed’s stability and durability.
Customer Reviews of the Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
According to Bear’s website, the Bear Elite scores about 4.5 out of 5 stars. Some customers find the Bear Elite Hybrid mattress too firm for their liking, but it receives praise in its reviews for its advanced cooling technology and pressure relief.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.2
Saatva
Saatva Classic
Two Coil Units
Lumbar Support
Multiple Firmnesses
Hybrid
365 nights
Free shipping and white glove delivery
Limited Time Offer
Take $300 off your order of $1,000 or more See Details
Multiple firmness options available (Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm). We tested the Luxury Firm and placed it at a 7 out of 10, which is firm but not extremely firm.
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king, split California king; two height options (11.5″ and 14.5″)
Combination Sleepers
This bed supported us in every single sleeping position, so you’re all set if you switch your posture during the night.
Back Pain
There are multiple features inside this bed that support the lower back specifically.
Fans of Convenience
White glove delivery is a big plus if you don’t want to deal with the hassle of mattress unboxing and setup.
Saatva Classic Pros
All the built-in lumbar features really kept our lower backs lifted and supported
The edge support on this bed is something else—those foam rails make you feel very secure
You can customize the bed’s firmness level and height
Saatva Classic Cons
There’s very little motion isolation to be had on this bed, so you may feel a partner’s movements; check out the best memory foam beds if a calm surface is important to you
Unlike many other mattress companies we feature, Saatva will charge you a return fee if you send this bed back
Shipping
Free shipping and white glove delivery in the contiguous United States
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
Saatva charges a $99 processing fee for returns
The Advisor Says: The Saatva Classic is the gold standard for lower-back support, strong edges, and customizable luxury. It’s not the softest or most motion-isolating bed out there, but it’s a dependable, bouncy hybrid that consistently impresses our testers with its two coil units.
Why the Saatva Classic Earned Best Purple Rejuvenate™ Alternative
At first glance, I can find many similarities between the Purple Rejuvenate™ and Saatva Classic. Both are hybrids, so they have strong coil layers that help keep your posture in check in different sleeping positions. Both mattresses also have excellent edge support thanks to additional coils in the perimeter, so you should feel safe lying and sitting in this area.
Purple is popular for its bounce, and the Saatva Classic doesn’t stay too far behind. I found the Saatva Classic has good responsiveness with materials that bounce back quickly.
The year-long trial gives you plenty of time to test the Classic compared to the 100-night trial you get with the Purple Rejuvenate™ mattress. You also get to choose your preferred height and firmness level when you order.
My Take: Because this mattress is so flexible, all sleep positions and body types can find what they need here. It really is a one-stop shop.
What’s the Saatva Classic Made Of?
The Saatva Classic is available in two height options, so you can choose between 11.5 inches and 14.5 inches. This bed has four layers, one of which is the Euro top.
A Look Inside the Saatva Classic
Layer 1 – Euro-style Pillow Top. This is a 1.25-inch layer of foam stitched to Saatva’s natural cotton cover. The Euro top contours the sleeper’s body and aids in pressure relief.
Layer 2 – Lumbar Zone® Active Spinal Wire. This layer covers the center third of the mattress and is made from memory foam. The additional foam makes this area of the bed feel noticeably different from the rest of the mattress, helping relieve back pain and tension.
Layer 3 – Lumbar Zone® Pocketed Coils. Going deeper, you’ll come across the first layer of coils with zoning for additional support. This layer (in the Queen size) has 884 14.5-gauge recycled steel coils.
Layer 4 – The Base Coil Unit. Saatva’s second support layer has 416 13-gauge coils (in the Queen size). These are made from tempered steel, so they shouldn’t sag. There’s also a high-density foam rail around the bed for extra edge support.
Customer Reviews of the Saatva Mattress
The Saatva Classic rates 4.8 stars out of 5 on Saatva’s website. One negative aspect customers found with the Saatva Classic mattress is that it may feel too firm for some users, while a notable advantage is its high-quality materials, providing durability and support.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
Flippable with two possible firmnesses, both on the firmer side. The firm side ranked a 7 out of 10, and the extra-firm side ranked 8.5 out of 10.
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, short full, queen, short queen, Olympic queen, king, short king, California king, split California king, RV king
Stomach Sleepers
Stomach sleepers need a firm surface to keep their hips supported, and the Plank Firm succeeds at just that.
Heavyweight Sleepers
Sleepers over 230 pounds should feel aloft on the Plank Firm’s firm surface.
Couples
Since it earned decent marks in edge support, cooling, bounce, and motion isolation, we think the Plank Firm is a good fit for couples.
Pros for the Plank Firm
This mattress is flippable, so you don’t have to compromise between a traditional firm feel and a sleeping-on-the-floor feel
The Plank Firm is supportive enough for both stomach sleepers and folks over 230 pounds
Spinal alignment felt wonderful on this mattress
Cons for the Plank Firm
The Plank Firm is truly firm, so check out our picks for the best medium-firm mattresses if that’s more your jam
This bed might not provide the necessary pressure relief for some sleepers
Shipping
Free shipping in contiguous United States ($125 for Alaska and Hawaii, $250 for Canada)
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Returns
Flat return fee ($99)
The Advisor Says: We’re constantly calling this mattress one of the firmest in the online market, and if you don’t believe us, try it for yourself! It offers both a classic firm and extra-firm feel in its flippable design, alongside posture-aligning support. Bonus points for good marks in performance for cooling, bounce, and couples.
Why the Plank Firm Earned Best PurpleFlex™ Alternative
The PurpleFlex™ is the least costly of Purple’s beds, and also the firmest. That’s because it only has three key layers: the cover, the famous Purple GelFlex® Grid, and base support foam.
The Plank Firm mattress is likewise quite firm with three layers: a quilted top, a thick foam core, and a layer of TitanFlex™ foam. But it beats the PurpleFlex™ in versatility, because you can flip the mattress to access one of two possible feels. One side is traditionally firm, while the other is ultra-firm.
My Take: This is a firmer mattress, ideal for stomach, back, and plus-size sleepers in need of weight distribution and spine alignment.
What’s the Plank Firm Made Of?
The Plank Firm packs four distinct layers into 10.25 inches of mattress. It’s flippable and split into two sides: an extra-firm side and a firm side.
Inside the Plank Firm
The center core consists of 6 inches of high-density foam that gives the bed its support.
The extra-firm side only has a quilted top above the foam core, and it’s stitched to provide absolutely no lift for a seriously firm experience.
On the other hand, the firm side has a quilted top layer with a small amount of loft that makes it feel more traditionally firm. Underneath is a layer of TitanFlex™ foam for bounce and pressure relief.
Customer Reviews of the Plank Firm Mattress
On Plank’s website, the Plank Firm gets 4.8 out of 5 stars. Customers left a little over 3,000 reviews, appreciating the Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm mattress for its exceptional firmness, but some have found it to be too rigid for their comfort preferences.
In my opinion, a Purple alternative has similar qualities to a Purple mattress, but it’s also slightly different in other ways. For example, maybe it’s bouncy like a Purple bed but better at cooling.
A good Purple alternative mattress can also be similar in firmness and performance, but it’s not as expensive. In other cases, some shoppers might like the adaptive feel of the Purple mattress but prefer an alternative that feels a little more like a traditional mattress without the unique GelFlex® Grid.
What to Look for in a Purple Alternative Mattress
Looking for a Purple alternative mattress should be simple enough, but it helps to first know the type of mattress you’re interested in. Purple offers both hybrids and all-foam mattresses, so it’s good to know where to look when considering an alternative. Along with that, you should be aware of other important mattress features that can enhance your sleeping experience.
Type of Mattress
Innerspring Mattresses
Innerspring mattresses are considered the traditional type with coils and only one comfort layer. The comfort layer is typically on the thinner side, which makes these beds quite bouncy, given that the coils are near the top.
In most cases, the comfort layer is made from memory foam or another similar material, providing some cushioning so that you don’t feel the coils. An innerspring can be a good alternative to a Purple mattress if what you’re mostly interested in is responsiveness and bounce.
Hybrid Mattresses
Hybrid mattresses have coils much like the innerspring type, but the difference here is in the number of comfort layers. Hybrids usually have more than one comfort layer, along with coils that are individually wrapped for better motion isolation.
Purple offers several hybrid mattresses that excel in support, pressure relief, and cooling, so finding a good alternative might require a bit of research. This is especially the case if you want to stay within Purple’s price range or lower.
Memory Foam Mattresses
Memory foam mattresses are highly popular for their pressure-relieving capabilities. Although they tend to run hot due to the dense nature of memory foam, many manufacturers now use different cooling methods to help with temperature regulation.
Purple utilizes materials like copper, gel, and cool-to-the-touch covers to provide cooling. Their proprietary GelFlex® Grid also offers some breathability.
When it comes to finding a good alternative, I think there are many options worth considering. Other memory foam mattresses can provide equally great pressure relief with even more motion isolation.
Latex Mattresses
Latex is a good alternative to memory foam because it’s bouncier and eco-friendly. If you’re interested in a Purple mattress but want something more eco-friendly, latex would be a good option to go for if you don’t want to sacrifice the bounce.
One thing to keep in mind is that latex beds are usually more pricey, but they’re also highly durable, so they should last longer for you.
We test every mattress for every sleeping position to ensure we help you find the best option.
You should always consider your preferred sleeping position when buying a new mattress. Purple mattresses work for many people, including stomach sleepers, if you go for a model that is firm enough. Side sleepers usually need the softest beds, whereas back sleepers are usually a good fit for medium to medium-firm beds.
Weight/Body Type of Sleepers
Your weight and body type are also something you should keep in mind because they can impact how a bed feels and what type of bed and firmness you need. For example, heavier people should look for firmer and highly supportive beds, whereas lightweight people usually need softer beds.
Similarly, if you have broad shoulders and are a side sleeper, you want a softer mattress that can cushion your shoulders and prevent pressure buildup. Average-weight sleepers, who are between 130 and 230 pounds, often do best with medium or medium-firm beds
Purple mattresses come in various firmness options, so finding an alternative is pretty easy if you want it to match a specific firmness. Firmness is how soft or hard a bed feels, and the right firmness for you will depend on both your body weight and sleep position. That’s why I always emphasize that firmness is subjective, and what you might find to be a medium feel, someone over 230 pounds might experience as soft.
If firmness is your only concern, you can check how firm your preferred Purple mattress is and match that with any of the alternatives I mentioned earlier.
Cooling
Purple mattresses have the company’s proprietary GelFlex® Grid that also aids in breathability. Some models include other cooling features for an even more chilly experience. However, there are many cooling mattresses out there, so finding an alternative is rather easy.
In general, hybrid and innerspring beds are much better at regulating temperature than memory foam beds because memory foam tends to overheat. This is why most companies include gel or copper in the foam. Latex is also naturally cooling, so it’s a good option if you’re a hot sleeper looking for an eco-friendly bed.
When I tested Purple mattresses, I wasn’t too impressed with their motion-isolating abilities. This is probably because most models are bouncy and responsive, so it’s easy for that movement to transfer from one side of the bed to the other.
Motion isolation is crucial for many people, specifically couples and co-sleepers. If you wake up easily when your partner tosses and turns, it’s best to look for a Purple alternative that’s not as bouncy.
If you sleep with a partner, consider exploring our picks for the best mattresses for couples, which have superior motion isolation.
Sex
Sexually active couples might like the bounce coming from the Purple GelFlex® Grid. The great news here is that there are many other mattresses out there that can offer plenty of buoyancy for couples who prefer this in their mattress as this makes it easier to switch positions. In this case, look for innerspring, latex, or hybrid mattresses since coils and latex are more bouncy and quick-responding to movement.
Purple mattresses are good at relieving pressure thanks to their contouring nature. Even firmer models with GelFlex® Grid are able to provide enough cushioning to ease the tension in the hips, knees, and shoulders. For an alternative, I suggest trying a latex bed that has the same responsiveness as most Purple mattresses but still relieves pressure well.
Edge support might not seem like a very important factor, but this depends on your sleeping style. If you like sleeping near the edge, you want all the support you can get to prevent you from sliding off the bed. If you like sitting at the edge of the bed to put your socks or shoes on, you need even more support to prevent the edges from collapsing under you.
In my opinion, not all Purple mattresses have good edge support, so if that’s important to you, I suggest you look for an alternative with a reinforced perimeter, such as the Saatva Classic.
Budget
Budget is one of the biggest reasons why people look for Purple alternative mattresses. Purple is a more expensive brand, and some people prefer to avoid that luxury price tag. Luckily, you can find many good alternative options that aren’t as costly.
As always, it helps to have a budget in mind before you venture out looking for a Purple alternative mattress. Think about your favorite Purple bed and how much it costs before thinking how much you’d be okay paying for it. This can help you decide on a budget for your next mattress.
Another tip is to take advantage of mattress sales around major holidays like Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, and Labor Day since you can get a better deal on a premium bed.
Purple is a high-quality brand that sells unique mattresses, but there are many alternatives for people who might not like the company’s GelFlex® Grid or the luxury price. In this case, brands like Nolah, Helix, WinkBed, and DreamCloud are some good options to consider. If you compare the quality, performance, and feel, you can get yourself a Purple alternative that’s up to your standards.
Do Purple mattresses sag over time?
Sagging is common among different mattress brands. In many cases, it depends on how you use your mattress and also for how long. With Purple mattresses, I’d say you don’t have to worry about any sagging for at least seven to 10 years. You can also try rotating the mattress twice a year for more even and wear, and avoid letting kids jump on the bed as this can break down the materials faster.
Whether a Purple mattress is worth it depends on what you’re looking for. These beds are high-quality and made to fit a range of people, and they’re worth it if you prefer how they feel and they improve your sleeping experience. For some, though, the price is too high and that’s where a Purple alternative could help.
Purple mattresses have many great features, but often a Purple mattress alternative can provide you with everything you need at a more affordable price point. Keep in mind the specific qualities you’re looking for, and that will help you find a Purple alternative that suits your individual needs.
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.
