Puffy vs. Purple Mattress Comparison

Sizing and Weight Options

There are several factors to consider when selecting a mattress size. Bedroom size and layout determine how much available space there is for the bed. Those who share the bed may want to opt for a larger mattress size to sleep comfortably. The height and weight of the bed should also be considered.

A mattress can have a low profile, standard profile, or high profile. A low profile often fits better in smaller spaces, and is ideal for bunk beds and RVs. The lower profile means that the comfort system and/or support core may be thinner and less supportive than other models. Standard profile mattresses are most common. These mattresses fit standard fitted sheets comfortably. A high profile can offer more support and comfort with thicker layers. This is especially beneficial for sleepers who weigh more than 230 pounds. Shoppers should keep in mind the height of their bed frames when choosing a mattress size.

The weight of a mattress is also important to consider, as a heavy mattress will require more than one person for set-up. The added weight makes the mattress difficult to adjust or move. This helps the mattress stay in place on the bed frame, but some bed frames have a weight limit that should be factored in. Lighter mattresses are typically preferred by those planning to move regularly.

Puffy and Purple both produce foam and hybrid mattress models. Puffy manufactures all of its mattress styles in six standard sizes, twin through California king, as well as split king. Purple offers a split king size for each model, but does not produce the Hybrid or the Hybrid Premier in twin sizes.

The range of options available is meant to appeal to a range of shoppers and their unique needs and preferences. Some are shopping for themselves, while others are part of a couple or shopping for family members.

Since each model has a different construction, they also differ in height and weight. Some have thicker comfort layers and support cores. Shoppers who need a low profile mattress may opt for the Puffy or the Purple flagship models. Those who want a high profile mattress have their choice between the 14-inch Puffy Royal Hybrid and the 13-inch Purple Hybrid Premier.

All Puffy models weigh less than 100 pounds in a queen size, though the all-foam model weighs considerably less than either of the hybrids. This is something shoppers will want to keep in mind if they need a lightweight mattress. All of the Purple models weigh more than 100 pounds in a queen size.

Construction and Materials Comparison

The construction of a mattress determines how much support it provides, and for how long. Certain materials are more durable than others. Generally, mattresses are composed of a cover, comfort layers, transition layers, and a support core. These layers vary in thickness and composition, but can be made with natural and synthetic materials.

Common mattress types include foam, latex, hybrid, and airbed mattresses. Natural materials like cotton, wool, and latex are often considered durable, as are high-density foams and tempered steel coils. Less durable materials break down more quickly, causing deep impressions, uneven support, and less comfort over time. A mattress made with high-quality materials is often a valuable investment for shoppers.

Both Puffy and Purple have average to above-average durability for mattresses. Each brand offers both foam and hybrid options. There are key differences in mattress construction, which we’ll break down here.

Puffy

Puffy manufactures its foam with an environmentally friendly Variable Foaming Process (VPF). All three Puffy models are foam mattresses with cradling comfort layers and medium (5) firmness ratings. The foam layers used in Puffy mattresses include the following:

• Cooling Cloud: Memory foam infused with thermal conductive gel to draw heat away from the body.
• Body Adapting Dual Cloud Foam: Exclusive to the Puffy Lux, this foam relieves pressure points and offers full-body support.
• Climate Comfort Foam: Breathable foam that resists temperature fluctuations for a consistent feel.
• Firm Core Support Foam: This polyfoam is used in the support core for each Puffy mattress for durability and additional support.

Additionally, each mattress has a Zip-n-Wash cover that resists stains and can be removed and washed as needed.

Puffy Mattress

The Puffy mattress has a 10-inch profile and three-layer construction. The comfort system of the Puffy includes 2 inches of Cooling Cloud foam for pressure relief, with a 2-inch transition layer of Climate Comfort foam. The 6-inch Firm Core Support foam helps keep the spine aligned.

Puffy Lux Hybrid

The Puffy Lux Hybrid is a 12-inch foam mattress with a medium (5) feel. It has a comfort layer of Cooling Cloud foam for temperature regulation. The Dual Cloud foam layer beneath contours to the shape of the body, reduces pressure points, and relieves tension. Like the Puffy Mattress, the Lux Hybrid has a 2-inch transition layer of Climate Comfort foam. A 6-inch pocketed coil system and 1-inch polyfoam base layer provide additional support.

Puffy Royal Hybrid

The Puffy Royal Hybrid has a 14-inch profile and a five-layer construction. It has a 1.5-inch foam comfort layer infused with cooling gel beads that help prevent heat retention. Exclusive to the Puffy Royal Hybrid is a 2-inch layer of polyfoam for contouring and pressure relief. The third layer of polyfoam increases airflow throughout the mattress and helps regulate temperature. Also unique to the Puffy Royal Hybrid is a zoned polyfoam layer with Surface Modification Technology (SMT). Five zones in this layer offer customized support for the lower back, while cushioning the head, neck, shoulders, and feet. The wavy design of the SMT layer is intended to increase airflow. The Puffy Royal has a pocketed coil system and polyfoam base layer in its support core.

Purple

Purple developed the Purple Grid with open air channels and a flexible feel. The hyper-elastic polymer grid is used in all three Purple mattress models, but varies in thickness. The grid design flexes under pressure and cradles the body. It helps regulate temperature, isolate motion, and relieve pressure points. The Purple product line includes three mattresses: the Purple, the Purple Hybrid, and the Purple Hybrid Premier.

Purple Mattress

The flagship Purple mattress is 9.5 inches high and has a medium firm (6) rating. It has a cover composed of viscose, polyester, and lycra. The cover is stretchy and breathable so that sleepers can feel the benefits of the Purple Grid beneath it. The comfort system includes a 2-inch Purple Grid layer. A 3.5-inch polyfoam layer sits between the Purple Grid and the high-density polyfoam support core.

Purple Hybrid

The Purple Hybrid has an 11-inch profile and medium firm (6) feel. The cover has breathable side panels to increase airflow throughout the mattress. Like the flagship Purple, the Purple Hybrid has a 2-inch Purple Grid as its comfort layer. A 1-inch transition layer of polyfoam adds structure to the mattress.

The support core is 7.5 inches of pocketed coils for support and pressure relief. The coils are individually encased to reduce motion transfer.

Purple Hybrid Premier

The Purple Hybrid Premier is the brand’s luxury model. It has a breathable cover and 12-inch or 13-inch profile. Shoppers can choose between a 3-inch or 4-inch Purple Grid comfort layer. The 3-inch Purple grid cradles the body and has a medium firm (6) rating. The 4-inch Purple Grid offers more pressure relief and a medium (5) firmness. Sleepers can sink into the thicker comfort grid more deeply.

Both models have a 1-inch transition layer of foam and a 7.5-inch pocketed coil support core. The support core is responsive, durable, and supportive. The Hybrid Premier isolates motion well, but still has notable bounce for ease of movement.

In-Depth Ratings

It is essential for shoppers to determine their needs and prioritize what they are looking for when buying a new mattress. We’ll take an in-depth look at the factors shoppers should consider here. These factors play a role in the overall sleep experience and can affect how much support and comfort a mattress provides. Each shopper has unique needs that should be kept in mind, and these factors will vary in importance depending on those needs.

Durability
Most shoppers will want a high-quality mattress that is built to last. The durability of a mattress is affected by its construction in addition to how often it is used. Shoppers looking for a mattress for a guest bedroom may be less concerned with durability, as the mattress will not be used nightly. High-density foam, latex, and tempered steel coils can all add durability to a mattress and ensure it provides even, consistent support. On average, the lifespan of a mattress is six to eight years but some last for ten years or more.

Motion Isolation
Motion isolation is most important for shoppers who share the bed. If movements in one section of the bed can be felt in other areas, this can cause sleep disturbances. A mattress that isolates motion prevents these movements from rippling across the mattress surface. This minimizes the likelihood of disturbances for those who share the bed. Memory foam is especially absorbent, and mattresses with thick foam layers often isolate motion better than those with buoyant or bouncy layers.

Sex
A mattress with bounce makes it easy to change positions during sex. Hybrid and latex mattresses are especially buoyant, and are preferred by many couples for amorous activity as a result. Memory foam can provide traction for changing positions, but if it is too soft it may inhibit movement. Sturdy edge support in a mattress gives couples more usable surface area. Another consideration to keep in mind is whether or not the mattress makes noise when bearing weight. Those who have shared housing or live in an apartment may prefer a foam mattress, as it is silent when bearing weight.

Temperature Neutrality
Certain materials absorb and retain body heat while others help dissipate it. Cooling mattresses are constructed with breathable materials, including natural latex, innerspring coils, and aerated layers. Moisture-wicking mattress covers can also help hot sleepers feel more comfortable. Memory foam is more likely to retain heat and restrict airflow by conforming closely, but certain features can offset this. Memory foam infused with thermal conductive gel, graphite, or copper can help draw heat away from the body.

Pressure Relief
Areas like the shoulders and hips often press more deeply into a mattress, and pressure points are likely to develop if the mattress does not conform to the shape of the body. Mattresses relieve pressure by cushioning these areas, evenly distributing body weight, and keeping the spine aligned. Memory foam and latex are often used as comfort layers for pressure relief.

Off-Gassing
A new mattress will air out when it is first unboxed. There may be an initial odor, which is often the result of off-gassing, or the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The smell may be off-putting to those who are sensitive to odors, but it typically dissipates within a few days. Mattresses made with natural materials are less likely to off-gas. Ensuring the room is well-ventilated when the mattress is unboxed should help dissipate any odors.

Ease of Movement
How easy it is to move around on the mattress is an important consideration. A buoyant, springy surface helps facilitate movement, which is beneficial for sleepers who change positions throughout the night. A closely conforming mattress may return to its shape more slowly when pressure is removed, which can feel restrictive for some sleepers.

Edge Support
How the mattress is constructed determines the amount of support the perimeter provides. For those who often sleep or sit near the edge of the bed, edge support is crucial. A sturdy perimeter prevents the feeling of rolling off the bed, and resists sagging over time. Hybrid mattresses typically have higher-gauge coils around the perimeter for edge support. This increases the usable surface area of the mattress. A mattress that compresses easily will feel less supportive near the edges.

Puffy

Purple

In-Depth Pricing

Several factors affect the price of a mattress. Mattress type plays a role, as foam mattresses are often more affordable than latex and hybrid models. That said, there are budget-friendly and luxury options available for each mattress type.

The size of a mattress, including its height and weight, can determine its price. Smaller mattresses are typically less expensive, as they require fewer materials to produce. The number of layers in a mattress, in addition to the complexity of both materials and construction, also affect price. Proprietary materials with unique features and components are often more expensive than generic materials.

Mattresses made in the U.S. can be more expensive, though some companies keep prices low by shipping directly to customers and reducing overhead costs. Additionally, mattress companies often have sales and promotions that discount mattress prices for customers.

Puffy and Purple have similar price ranges. The flagship mattresses from each company are comparable in price and are considered affordable for high-quality foam mattresses.

The Puffy Lux Hybrid and Royal Hybrid are more expensive, as they are considered luxury options. The Puffy Lux Hybrid is similarly priced to the Purple Hybrid, while the Puffy Royal Hybrid and Purple Hybrid Premier 12-inch mattress prices are comparable.

The most expensive option is the Purple Premier 13-inch mattress. Of the available Purple models, it has the thickest Purple Grid comfort layer.

All Purple and Puffy mattresses are highly rated for pressure relief and motion isolation. The Purple Hybrid and Hybrid Premier are rated slightly better in terms of durability, though they do cost more upfront.

Trial, Warranty, and Delivery

Shipping

Most online mattress companies ship mattresses as a mattress in a box. This involves compressing, vacuum-sealing, wrapping the mattress in plastic, and shipping it in a standard size box. This makes it easier for shipping partners like UPS and FedEx to deliver the mattress to the customer’s doorstep. Orders shipped outside the United States are sometimes shipped via freight shipping.

Those who want in-home setup should opt for White Glove delivery, if available. This often includes old mattress removal in addition to delivering and assembling the new mattress.

Shipping policies and charges vary between companies, but many offer free shipping.

Puffy offers free standard shipping throughout the U.S. International shipping and White Glove delivery are not currently offered.

Puffy mattresses are manufactured in the U.S. in small batches. The mattress is compressed, vacuum-sealed, and shipped as a mattress in a box. It is typically delivered within two to five business days.

Purple offers free standard shipping to the contiguous U.S. Shipping to Alaska, Hawaii, and Canada is available for an additional charge. Purple offers free White Glove delivery for the Purple Hybrid and Purple Hybrid Premier within the contiguous U.S.

Purple typically processes orders within three to five business days. Standard shipping takes three to five business days, while White Glove delivery can take up to a few weeks.

Returns

Mattresses purchased online usually include a sleep trial, allowing customers to try out the mattress risk-free in their own homes. Depending on the company, the sleep trial may include a mandatory break-in period before a return can be initiated. This gives purchasers a chance to adjust to the new mattress before making a decision.

Boxed mattresses are not able to be returned to their original packaging once they have fully expanded. Many mattress companies work with local charities or recycling facilities to coordinate pickup of the mattress in the event of a return. While many companies offer free returns, some charge transportation or restocking fees.

Puffy offers a 101-night sleep trial, which includes a 14-day mandatory break-in period. In the event of a return, Puffy coordinates pickup and donation of the mattress and issues the customer a full refund.

Purple provides a 100-night sleep trial with a 21-night required break-in period. The company coordinates pickup and donation of the mattress and issues a full refund in the event of a return.

Warranties

A mattress warranty protects the mattress and ensures repair or replacement in the event of a defect. Warranties are offered to provide peace of mind for the customer and show that the company stands behind its products.

Warranties typically cover defects in materials and manufacturing, but do not cover normal wear and tear. Defects may include deep impressions, splits or cracks in foam layers, and other physical flaws. Most warranties apply only to the original purchaser, and may have other eligibility requirements.

When comparing warranties, shoppers should look at more than just length of coverage. Shoppers may be responsible for costs associated with warranty claims, including a prorated portion of the original purchase price and/or transportation charges.

Puffy mattresses come with a lifetime warranty. The company replaces the mattress at any point if a defect arises, and replacement models are also covered under warranty. Covered defects include indentations greater than 1.5 inches, zipper breakage, and other physical flaws.

Purple offers a 2-year warranty for the mattress cover and a 10-year warranty for the mattress interior. This warranty provides repair or replacement in the event of defects including indentations greater than one inch and splits or cracks in the materials. The purchaser is responsible for shipping and/or inspection costs associated with the warranty claim.