Saatva vs. Beautyrest Black Mattress Comparison

Saatva and Simmons are two popular names in the bedding industry. Simmons was founded in 1870 and launched its flagship brand, Beautyrest, in 1925. Saatva is newer to the market, but it has gained dedicated customers since its 2010 launch.

Both companies produce several mattresses but this comparison guide will focus on a few select models. These include the Saatva Classic and Saatva Youth, both innersprings, as well as two hybrid models, the Saatva HD and Saatva Latex Hybrid.  We’ll also look at Simmons Beautyrest Black, Simmons Beautyrest Black + Cooling, and Simmons Beautyrest Black + Comfort hybrid models.

Between its four models, Saatva produces four firmnesses: soft (3), medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (7-8). The Beautyrest Black mattresses come in two options: medium soft (4) and medium firm (6). Most sleepers tend to prefer a mattress close to the middle of the 10-point firmness scale, usually around 5 or 6. However, lighter-weight individuals frequently prefer a softer model for more contouring and heavier individuals often favor a firmer model for more support.

This guide will detail each of the Saatva and Beautyrest Black models listed above. It will compare their construction, performance, pricing, sizing, and company policies. Each of these mattress models may be ideal for some sleepers, but learning more about them can help you decide which option is best for you.

Please note: For this comparison guide, we’ll exclusively look at Saatva mattress models that bear the Saatva name. Our guide will not cover additional Saatva models, including the Loom & Leaf memory foam mattress, the Zenhaven flippable latex mattress, and the Solaire adjustable airbed.

Sizing and Weight Options

Size and weight may not be the first criteria you look at when selecting a mattress, but these factors are important to consider because they may affect its comfort and convenience.

The size of the mattress determines how much surface space sleepers have, so couples and sleepers who are prone to tossing and turning often prefer larger models. Smaller options also have distinct benefits since they are usually easier to move and more affordable. Additionally, shoppers with small rooms may require a smaller mattress size to fit their space.

A mattress’s height can affect how supportive it feels. Larger individuals frequently prefer thicker models since they tend to have deeper comfort and support systems and are less likely to bottom out. The height may also influence how easy it is to get into or out of bed. Some sleepers think it is easier to get into a higher bed, while others feel a lower bed is more comfortable. Finally, high-profile models often require deep pocket sheets, which may be an important factor for some shoppers.

Finally, a mattress’s weight is worth noting. If you plan to move or rotate your mattress frequently, a lighter model may simplify the process. However, heavier options may feel more securely situated on the foundation.

Saatva offers a wider range of mattress sizes. The Saatva Classic is available in the six standard mattress sizes – twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, and California king – as well as split king and split California king options for couples with adjustable beds. The Saatva HD and Saatva Latex Hybrid are available in split king sizes, as well. Since it is intended for children, the Saatva Youth is exclusively offered in twin, twin XL, or full sizes.

Beautyrest Black models are not available in twin sizes, but they are available in the other five standard mattress sizes. Split sizes are not offered for Beautyrest Black mattresses.

Because the Beautyrest Black line consists of high-profile models, customers looking for an average-height bed may prefer Saatva’s options. The Saatva Youth is the lowest-profile model by either brand, measuring 10 inches. Meanwhile, the Saatva HD is the highest-profile option at 15.5 inches thick.

Saatva’s mattresses also tend to weigh more than the Beautyrest Black models. However, the Saatva Youth is an exception, weighing less than the other models by either brand.

Saatva and Beautyrest Black have well-rounded but very different product lines. The Saatva Classic comes in three firmness levels and two heights to accommodate shoppers with different preferences. The Saatva HD is designed for people who weigh more than 230 pounds, the Saatva Latex Hybrid is a responsive and eco-friendly model, and the reversible Saatva Youth is geared toward children. The Beautyrest Black line does not have as diverse of offerings, instead focusing on one basic design with two variations to adjust the temperature and feel.

Construction and Materials Comparison

The materials and construction are some of the main factors that differentiate between mattress models. Not only can these aspects affect how comfortable a mattress feels, but they also contribute to its durability. Each material commonly used in mattresses has potential benefits and drawbacks. While every model is unique, customers can typically infer a lot based on the mattress’s materials.

Coils, latex, polyfoam, and memory foam are some of the most common mattress components. Mattress models frequently incorporate several different materials to achieve a balance of support and contouring.

Coils or springs are most often used in a mattress’s support layer, but some models also incorporate them in the transition or comfort layers. Since air can flow relatively unimpeded between springs, coil layers often help with temperature regulation. They also frequently feature enhanced edge support to expand the usable surface of the bed. Many couples find the bounce of a coil system desirable for sex, but this trait could also lead to more motion transfer, especially if the bed has a thin comfort layer.

Latex earns high marks for its bounce, breathability, durability, and pressure relief. Natural latex also has the added benefit of using eco-friendly materials. However, mattresses that use latex tend to be more expensive, and latex usually doesn’t isolate motion as completely as polyfoam or memory foam. Latex may be used in the comfort layer, transition layer, and/or core.

Polyfoam can be used in any layer of a mattress. It adjusts to the sleeper’s body to relieve pressure points, but it usually regains its shape more quickly than memory foam, so some sleepers find it easier to move on. While high-density polyfoam can be quite durable, lower-density polyfoam tends to deteriorate more rapidly than some materials.

Memory foam is common in comfort and transition layers. This material is best known for its close-conforming pressure relief that many sleepers liken to a hug. Memory foam usually holds body impressions longer than other materials, which may make it more challenging for some sleepers to change positions. Its close hug can also trap heat against the sleeper’s body, but some models use special features to counteract this.

Saatva

Saatva Classic
The Saatva Classic uses a hybrid-inspired innerspring design. This model starts out with a knit organic cover that lets air circulate into the sleep surface. A 1.25-inch layer of polyfoam, .75 inches of fiber fill, and 1 ounce of Dacron are quilted into the cover, giving the bed a plush Euro pillow top for extra cushioning.

Next, two thin layers of foam add contouring and support. A .625-inch layer of polyfoam shapes to the sleeper’s body to relieve pressure buildup, while a .375-inch memory foam lumbar pad enhances the support near the middle of the bed to promote proper spinal alignment.

The transition layer uses 4 inches of 14.5-gauge coils individually encased in foam. This layer gives the bed extra bounce and breathability, and the coils move independently to reduce motion transfer.

Both the 11.5-inch and 14.5-inch versions of the mattress use cores made up of 13-gauge hourglass coils for support, springiness, and airflow. The 11.5-inch mattress has a 4-inch core, while the 14.5-inch version has a 7-inch core. A layer of firm foam wraps around the outside of the bed for extra edge support. Finally, a .5-inch loft pad and a .875-inch fiber pad serve as the support base.

Saatva HD
The Saatva HD is a hybrid mattress designed to support larger bodies.

A hand-tufted organic cotton cover is quilted with polyfoam to cushion the surface of the bed. The top layer of the comfort system uses 1.5 inches of Talalay latex that cradles the sleeper’s body to relieve pressure points while maintaining a buoyant, responsive feel. Five firmness zones bolster the support under the shoulders and hips to limit sagging and help keep the sleeper’s spine aligned. The second comfort layer uses 1.5 inches of high density 5 pounds per cubic foot (PCF) memory foam for additional contouring, pressure relief, and motion isolation.

The transition layer consists of 2 inches of polyfoam that divides the comfort system and the core. Offset coils in the core enhance the bed’s breathability, support, and bounce. This spring system uses 12.5-gauge coils threaded with 17-gauge helical wire for added durability and motion isolation. Polyfoam encases the perimeter of the mattress for extra edge support.

Saatva Latex Hybrid
The Saatva Latex Hybrid is a medium firm (6) mattress measuring 12 inches thick.

The comfort layer is composed of Talalay latex, a material that conforms to the body while feeling bouncier than memory foam. The latex is also ventilated with small holes to promote airflow near the surface and keep sleepers cool.

The hybrid also contains a support core of 8-inch pocketed coils. The support core is divided into two zones based on coil gauge. Thicker coils are positioned along the perimeter to minimize sinkage when people sit or sleep near the edges of the mattress, while thinner coils are placed beneath the sleep surface for a gentler feel.

The mattress is encased in a cover made of organic cotton that has earned certification from the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). The bed’s organic wool fire barrier has also received this certification. The GOTS is one of the world’s leading authorities for certifying organic textiles.

Saatva Youth
The Saatva Youth is a flippable innerspring model crafted for children. One side is designed to accommodate children over 3, while the other side is intended for those over 8.

A layer of 14.5-gauge bonnell coils is at the center of the bed and serves as the support system for both sides of the mattress. Polyfoam encasement around the perimeter of the coil system stabilizes the edge.

One side of the mattress uses a polyfoam comfort layer that’s zoned to support the sleeper’s spine. The reverse side has a layer of convoluted high-density polyfoam to soften the surface of the bed.

The Saatva Youth Mattress is wrapped in a breathable, hypoallergenic organic cotton cover. To protect the mattress against accidents, the cover has a water-resistant finish and there is a waterproof barrier inside the mattress.

Simmons Beautyrest Black

Beautyrest Black
The Beautyrest Black is the flagship hybrid model in the Black mattress line. It uses a proprietary BlackICE 4.0 system to regulate the temperature of the surface of the bed. This includes a fabric cover engineered to feel cool to the touch. Next, the bed uses four comfort layers to cradle the sleeper’s body and relieve pressure points. The layers are .5 inches of polyfoam, 1 inch of polyfoam, 1.5 inches of polyfoam, and .5 inches of gel-infused memory foam.

Pocketed coils make up the mattress core. Air circulation through the core further cools the mattress, while the springs give the bed bounce. Each coil can move on its own to reduce how far vibrations transfer. Polyfoam wraps around the perimeter of the layer for extra edge support.

Beautyrest Black + Cooling
The Beautyrest Black + Cooling uses a similar hybrid design to the flagship Beautyrest Black but with added cooling features. It uses the same starts with a cool-to-the-touch fabric cover. Underneath, there is a four-layer comfort system with .5 inches of polyfoam, 1 inch of polyfoam, 1 inch of RightTemp Memory Foam, and 1 inch of gel-infused memory foam. RightTemp Memory Foam is infused with carbon fiber for enhanced temperature regulation. This comfort system cushions the mattress while redistributing the sleeper’s weight to relieve pressure.

This model also uses a pocketed coil core, adding breathability and springiness while limiting motion transfer. A polyfoam encasement reinforces the edge.

Beautyrest Black + Cooling + Comfort
Like the rest of the Beautyrest Black mattress line, the Beautyrest Black + Cooling + Comfort is a hybrid model. What separates it from the other models is its enhanced cooling and comfort features.

A fabric cover feels cool to the touch for surface-level cooling. The comfort system consists of five layers: .75 inches of GelTouch Foam, 1 inch of polyfoam, 2 inches of gel-infused memory foam, 1 inch of RightTemp Memory Foam, and 1 inch of polyfoam. GelTouch Foam is a proprietary polyfoam crafted for pressure relief and airflow. RightTemp Memory Foam is another proprietary material. It is infused with carbon fiber to cool the bed. This comfort system is engineered for plushness, pressure relief, and cooling.

Finally, pocketed coils serve as the core of the Beautyrest Black + Cooling + Comfort, giving it bounce and breathability. The pocketing of the coils also limits motion transfer. A layer of polyfoam encases the coil system for enhanced edge support.

In-Depth Ratings

Multiple aspects play a role in a mattress’s overall comfort. The following factors are some of the main things that most shoppers look for in a bed. Which features matter most may depend on personal needs, preferences, and sleep styles. However, selecting a mattress that performs well for you may help you get a more comfortable night’s sleep and awaken less often.

Durability
Durable mattresses tend to resist sagging, indentations, and foam deterioration, so they generally don’t need to be replaced as soon. Mattresses with high-quality materials tend to be the most durable. While durable models usually cost more, their longer life expectancies may make them a better value in the long run. Durability may also be important for individuals who dislike mattress shopping and want to delay replacing their mattress again for as long as possible.

Motion Isolation
Individuals who sleep with partners often prefer models that absorb motion rather than transferring it across the surface of the bed. When one sleeper changes positions, their partner may feel vibrations from that movement. Beds that isolate motion well reduce this motion transfer, which may lead to more restful sleep. Thicker comfort layers, especially those with memory foam or polyfoam, usually absorb motion well.

Sex
Several factors may influence how well a mattress performs for sex. Couples often prefer a bouncy surface, so many like models with layers of coils or latex. A comfort system that hugs closely to the body may restrict motion, but it could also add traction, which some enjoy. Good edge support is often a priority because it can give couples extra room to move around on the mattress. Some partners may also prefer a model that doesn’t produce much noise so that they can be more discreet.

Temperature Neutrality
Some mattresses trap heat, while others allow it to dissipate away from the sleeper’s body. Individuals prone to overheating during the night usually prefer a model engineered to stay cool during the night. Latex and coils tend to excel in temperature neutrality due to their breathability. Polyfoam also has an open cell structure that lets heat escape. Memory foam is more prone to heat retention, but many mattress models have special materials or features to keep the sleep surface cool.

Pressure Relief
Some sleepers may experience aches and pains as a result of their heavier, wider body parts putting more force on the mattress. Pressure often builds up around a sleeper’s hips and shoulders. The best mattresses for neck and back pain are models that redistribute the sleeper’s weight to reduce pressure buildup. A mattress’s comfort system is usually responsible for most of its pressure relief. Polyfoam, memory foam, and latex tend to perform especially well.

Off-gassing
Manufacturing odors often become trapped in new mattresses, especially when they contain synthetic foam or ship compressed. These odors are generally considered harmless for most people, so many shoppers may not view off-gassing odors as a high priority. Most smells will air out within a couple of days if the mattress is left in a well-ventilated room. However, individuals who are sensitive to smells may prefer a model that’s less likely to have an odor.

Ease of Movement
Mattresses that respond slowly to changes in pressure, hug closely to the body, and/or allow the sleeper to sink in deeply may be more difficult for some individuals to move on. Memory foam is particularly prone to responding slowly when the sleeper changes position, which may make some people feel like they’re trapped in the bed. This is more likely on softer models with thick memory foam comfort layers. Sleepers with mobility issues and those who change positions frequently may prefer a model that is easier to move on.

Edge Support
Individuals who like to sit or sleep near the edge of the bed may prefer a model with a supportive perimeter. If the edge of the bed does not feel secure, many sleepers will avoid it. This limits the usable surface of the mattress. Firmer models and those with thick support layers often have sturdy edges without dedicated edge reinforcement. However, many models with coil layers also use specific materials and construction techniques to enhance the support around the mattress’s perimeter.

Saatva

Beautyrest Black

Prices and Sizing

The materials used to construct a mattress are one of the biggest factors in determining its price. Because of this, larger mattress sizes and thicker models typically cost more than smaller, thinner mattresses.

Higher-quality and technologically-advanced materials usually cost mattress manufacturers more than other options, and this added expense is typically reflected in the price of the mattress. Some shoppers may shy away from more expensive models, but a mattress is an important investment and higher-priced materials could lend to the bed’s durability and comfort.

Where a mattress is made can also influence its price point. American-made models are often more expensive due to the increased cost of facilities and labor.

Mattress models in the Beautyrest Black line tend to be more expensive than Saatva’s mattresses. However, this extra expense may be justified for those who prefer a mattress on the softer end of the average firmness range. Customers who favor brands with long track records may also feel the extra expense is worth it.

The Saatva Youth is the lowest-priced option by either brand, with the Saatva Classic coming in a close second. The Simmons Beautyrest Black + Cooling + Comfort is the highest-priced option due to its added features and advanced technology.

Trials, Warranty, and Delivery

Shipping

Saatva
Each of Saatva’s mattresses comes with free White Glove delivery in the contiguous United States. Saatva does not ship to Alaska and Hawaii at this time, but the company can arrange for it to be shipped through a freight forwarder.

Mattresses are typically produced after the customer places their order. Most mattresses arrive within 1-2 weeks, but this can vary for some locations. Once the mattress is ready, a delivery team will schedule a four-hour delivery window during which they will bring the new mattress into the customer’s home, remove the packaging, set it up, and remove the old mattress.

Shoppers can buy a Saatva mattress through the company’s website. They can also check out Saatva’s models in person at the Saatva.com Viewing Room in New York City.

Simmons Beautyrest Black
Simmons offers free White Glove delivery in the contiguous United States for mattresses purchased directly through the Beautyrest website. Beautyrest mattresses ordered through the website cannot be shipped to Alaska or Hawaii at this time.

Once you place your order, the company’s shipping partner (XPO Logistics) will contact you to set up a four-hour delivery window. XPO Logistics typically reaches out 7 to 15 business days after the order is placed. The team will bring in your new mattress, unpack it, remove the packaging, and remove your old mattress.

Beautyrest Black mattresses are sold through the Beautyrest website, Amazon, and in select mattress and furniture stores across the United States.

Sleep Trial

Saatva
Saatva provides a 365-night trial period for customers to test out their mattress at home. At any time during the trial period, customers can return the mattress for a refund of the purchase price. Saatva will arrange mattress removal. A $99 transportation fee applies. Discarded mattresses are typically donated or offered to delivery center employees.

Exchanges are also available for a $99 transportation fee, and the replacement mattress will also be eligible for a new 365-night sleep trial.

Simmons Beautyrest Black
When purchased directly through Simmons, the models in the Beautyrest Black line come with a 100-night sleep trial. If the customer is not happy with their mattress during this time, they can return it for a full refund of the purchase price. Simmons will work with the customer to arrange for the mattress to be removed from their home at no charge. This policy allows for one return per household per year.

Other retailers that sell Beautyrest Black mattresses may have different return policies.

Warranty

Warranty policies typically come with a new mattress at no additional charge. Policies vary between companies, but most offer at least a few years of coverage and protect against some of the most common defects, like indentations and cracking foam. A good warranty policy can give customers additional reassurance that their new mattress will last.

As you look at a company’s warranty policy, we suggest you pay particular attention to what is expected of the customer, what is covered, what isn’t covered, how the company promises to resolve defects, and how long the policy lasts. These factors may impact whether or not your mattress will qualify for coverage if a defect occurs.

Saatva
Saatva offers a lifetime warranty for all mattresses. These warranties cover defects in materials and workmanship, including qualifying body impressions. Body impressions greater than 1 inch are covered by the policies of the Saatva Classic and the Saatva Youth, while the Saatva HD’s policy covers impressions over 1.5 inches.

During the first two years of the warranty period, Saatva offers to replace defective mattresses at no charge. For the rest of the warranty period, customers pay a $149 transportation fee, and Saatva will repair and re-cover mattresses with qualifying defects.

The company also has a “Fairness Replacement Option.” Rather than sending back a defective mattress, customers can keep the mattress and purchase a new one at a prorated price determined by how long they’ve had their existing mattress. The customer may incur transportation charges.

Additional terms and conditions apply.

Simmons Beautyrest Black
Simmons Beautyrest Black mattresses come with a 10-year limited warranty that covers defects in the manufacturing and materials for mattresses located in the United States. This policy applies to the original mattress owner.

If Simmons finds a qualifying defect, it will elect to either replace the defective component or the whole mattress.

To be eligible for warranty coverage, mattresses should be used with a proper foundation and should be free from abuse, misuse, and staining. Customers should either leave the white law tag attached to the mattress or save it should they choose to remove it. Additional terms and conditions apply.