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When searching for a new mattress, your initial step should involve conducting thorough research and making comparisons between a variety of brands and models. This will enable you to assess the pricing, composition, performance, and other crucial purchasing factors associated with different types of mattresses. Today, we will delve into a comprehensive analysis of Helix and Casper, which are two leading brands that offer mattresses-in-a-box.
In 2014, Casper was introduced to the market with its flagship mattress, the Casper Mattress (also known as the Casper Original). This mattress consists of a blend of polyfoam and memory foam comfort layers over a dense base foam, and is completely constructed from foam. The latest version of this model includes a zoned transitional layer, which provides additional support specifically for individuals who prefer sleeping on their backs or stomachs. Additionally, the Casper Original Mattress is available in a variation that incorporates pocketed coils instead of high-density base foam. This particular version is called the Casper Original Hybrid. Since its inception, Casper has introduced several other mattress models, including the budget-friendly Casper Element, which is yet another all-foam model, and two luxurious hybrid models named the Wave Hybrid and Nova Hybrid.
On the other hand, Helix Sleep, also known as Helix, has been operating since 2015. After a significant revamp in 2018, the company now boasts a wide assortment of hybrid mattresses. This diverse range includes six standard hybrid models: Helix Sunset, Helix Moonlight, Helix Midnight, Helix Dusk, Helix Twilight, and Helix Dawn. Each of these standard hybrids offers a distinct sensation tailored to specific individuals based on their body type and preferred sleeping position. Additionally, it is possible to upgrade any of the standard Helix hybrids to a LUXE model, which incorporates an additional 2 inches of memory foam in the comfort system and incorporates a zoned coil system in the support core. Each LUXE model maintains the same overall firmness as its standard hybrid counterpart. Lastly, the Helix Plus is a hybrid specifically designed for individuals who weigh more than 230 pounds.
Throughout this analysis, we will thoroughly examine the prices, construction specifications, performance ratings, and customer policies associated with each model from these renowned brands.
We have dedicated our efforts to provide you with comprehensive guidance in choosing the most suitable mattress for your needs. Feel free to explore our complete selection of mattress guides listed below!
Price Range (Queen)
Options in Firmness
Medium (5), Medium Firm (6)
Soft (3), Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7), Firm (8)
Prominent Features
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Remarkable alleviation of pressure and exceptional motion isolation
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Optimum support ensured through zoned layers
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Breathable foam structure has been implemented in the mattress construction.
A wide range of models are available to accommodate various types of sleepers.
Each mattress provides a balance of adaptability and responsiveness.
A constant flow of air ensures consistent temperature control.
Models
Sleep Trial & Warranty
Customers can take advantage of a 100-night sleep trial with a 30-night requirement.
The warranty for these mattresses is 10 years, limited.
Customers can also benefit from a 100-night sleep trial with a 30-night requirement.
The warranty for these mattresses is 10 years, limited.
Customer Service
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When choosing a new mattress, it is crucial to consider the dimensions of size and weight. The number of sleepers who will regularly use the mattress should be taken into account when selecting a size. Single sleepers are best suited for twin, twin XL, and full sizes, while queen, king, and California king sizes are wide enough to accommodate two people comfortably. Most mattress brands determine prices based on size, although some may charge the same amount for twin and twin XL, as well as king and California king models.
Weight is also a significant factor to consider. Unless you choose full-service White Glove delivery, the mattress will be compressed, shipped in a box, and left at your doorstep. You will need to carry the mattress to another room in your house. Heavier mattresses may require assistance, as they can weigh over 150 pounds in certain sizes.
Size Options
Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Size Options
Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Size Options
Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Size Options
Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Options for Different Sizes
Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Size Choices
Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Various Size Options
Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Different Sizes Available
Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Adequate mattress selections are provided by both brands, catering to different body types and sleep positions. Casper offers five models, including all-foam options that provide body-contouring and targeted pressure relief, as well as hybrids that offer some conformity while being fairly responsive. Casper mattresses are available in medium (5) and medium firm (6) feels. However, if you prefer an exceptionally soft or firm mattress, you will need to look elsewhere, as Casper does not offer models with these firmness levels.
Helix offers a wider range of options in terms of firmness compared to Casper. Their selection includes standard and LUXE Helix hybrids with soft (3), medium soft (4), medium firm (6), firm (7), or firm (8) ratings. This range provides more choices for those seeking exceptionally soft or firm mattresses, as well as those who prefer a mid-range feel. Additionally, the Helix Plus is specifically designed for individuals weighing over 230 pounds. However, it’s important to note that Helix exclusively offers hybrid mattresses. If you are interested in an all-foam mattress, you may want to consider the Casper Original, Casper Element, or an all-foam model from another brand. Alternatively, if you prefer a mattress with coils, Helix hybrid models are somewhat comparable to Casper.
The materials used to construct a mattress can significantly impact various factors such as firmness, feel, durability, pressure relief, temperature control, and price. It is crucial to understand the strengths and limitations of different mattress materials to ensure your satisfaction with the chosen model.
To assist you in determining which Casper or Helix mattress may suit your individual needs and preferences, we will provide an overview of the material construction of each mattress.
Casper’s flagship mattress consists of comfort layers of polyfoam and memory foam, with a high-density polyfoam base. The top polyfoam layer provides a slight bounce, while the memory foam layer beneath it conforms closely to the body, striking a balance between contouring and responsiveness. The zoned construction of the memory foam layer is essential as it cushions lighter areas such as the shoulders and legs with a softer foam, while offering enhanced support to the torso and midsection with firmer foam.
The Casper Original Hybrid comes with pocketed coils in its support core. However, aside from that, this version is essentially the same as the Casper Original. Both mattresses offer a medium level of comfort, thanks to the adaptive comfort foams. If you sleep on your stomach and weigh over 230 pounds, you might sink too much, but if you weigh 230 pounds or less, the mattress should conform adequately without excessive sinking.
Casper also offers the Element, another mattress made entirely of foam. It has a 3-inch polyfoam comfort layer over a high-density foam base. This model may be suitable for those who prefer a foam mattress that doesn’t conform closely to the body. Both the Casper Original and Casper Element have open-cell foams in their comfort systems, which allow for better breathability and temperature regulation compared to the denser polyfoam and memory foam layers found in other competing models.
The Nova Hybrid is one of Casper’s newest mattress models. It features a top comfort layer of open-cell polyfoam, followed by a polyfoam layer divided into three zones, and a memory foam layer divided into seven zones. The mattress has a medium feel rating of 5, but the two zoned layers provide substantial support to prevent excessive sinking for individuals weighing less than 230 pounds who sleep on their side or back. The model also includes 7-inch pocketed coils for added reinforcement.
Lastly, there’s the Wave Hybrid, which combines comfort layers of polyfoam, memory foam, and latex, along with a zoned transitional layer incorporating supportive gel pods. The Wave Hybrid has 6-inch pocketed coils with a 7-inch foam encasement. It offers a medium feel, similar to the Casper Original Hybrid.
All Casper mattresses are covered with a blend of polyester, cotton, rayon, and spandex. Some of the polyester is made from recycled bottles, and the cotton is upcycled.
Helix offers three hybrid models: Moonlight, Dusk, and Dawn. These mattresses have a comfort layer of Helix Dynamic Foam, a latex-like responsive polyfoam material. They don’t conform too closely or sink excessively, making them suitable for back and stomach sleepers weighing over 130 pounds. Depending on your preference for the level of firmness, you can choose between the medium-soft feel of the Moonlight, the medium-firm feel of the Dusk, or the firm feel of the Dawn. These mattresses also feature a Helix Dynamic Foam transitional layer and a pocketed coil support core reinforced with an additional layer of base polyfoam.
The remaining three hybrids from Helix – Sunset, Midnight, and Twilight – have a top layer of Helix’s proprietary Memory Plus Foam. This material offers closer body-contouring, improving spinal alignment and reducing pressure points for side sleepers. Besides the memory foam, these three models share identical transitional and support core components with the Moonlight, Dusk, and Dawn. The Sunset has a soft feel, the Midnight has a medium-firm feel, and the Twilight has a firm feel. All six standard hybrids from Helix come with 100% polyester covers.
If you upgrade to a LUXE model, your mattress will have an additional 2-inch comfort layer. The Sunset LUXE and Moonlight LUXE include an extra layer of Helix Dynamic Foam, the Dusk LUXE has an additional layer of Memory Plus Foam, and the Midnight LUXE, Twilight LUXE, and Dawn LUXE feature an extra layer of gel-infused memory foam.
Moreover, the LUXE models come with zoned pocketed coils. Thicker springs line the perimeter to support the edges and prevent excessive sinkage when getting in and out of bed, while thinner coils beneath your body provide more cradling and less stiffness. The Helix LUXE hybrids also have plush pillow-top surfaces and covers made of Tencel lyocell, a highly breathable fabric derived partially from plant-based materials.
Unlike the other Helix mattresses, the Helix Plus is only available in a standard version. It consists of a comfort layer of medium-density memory foam, a second comfort layer of Helix Dynamic Foam, and a transitional layer of firm memory foam. These materials ensure better support and minimal sinking for individuals weighing over 230 pounds. The pocketed coils in this model are also zoned to provide stronger reinforcement for the edges.
Choosing the most comfortable Helix hybrid mattress can be challenging since each model is unique. To assist you, Helix’s website features an online sleep quiz where you can input your body weight, preferred sleep position, and other personal factors. Completing this quiz will help determine the model that specifically suits your needs.
Moving forward, we will explore the comparisons between Casper and Helix mattresses in various performance categories. Our ratings are based on comprehensive reviews and feedback from verified mattress owners, as well as our own meticulous research and analysis. These ratings will aid you in determining which Casper and Helix models best match your specific needs and preferences. For instance, if you tend to get hot while sleeping, you may want to prioritize a mattress that offers excellent temperature regulation, even if it may not excel in other areas such as pressure relief or motion isolation.
- Longevity: On average, mattresses tend to perform well for a period of six to eight years before considering a replacement. The primary reasons people consider replacing their mattresses are due to a loss of support caused by deep sagging and body impressions, excessive sinkage along the edges, normal wear and tear that leads to component deterioration, and physical damage that renders the bed unusable. In the event that your mattress exhibits defects covered under warranty, you may be eligible for a replacement of the same model.
- Motion Absorption: Some mattresses excel at absorbing movements made by sleepers, preventing these movements from transferring across the mattress surface. This feature can significantly reduce sleep disturbances for couples. Mattresses with soft foam layers tend to have the best motion absorption capabilities as they respond slowly to the body. However, mattresses with latex layers, coil systems, or other more responsive components may not isolate motion as effectively due to their springier surfaces. If you share your bed with a partner and frequently find yourself waking up due to their movements, it is advisable to consider a mattress that performs well in this category.
- Intimacy: Many couples prefer mattresses that strike a balance between resilience and sinkage for a more enjoyable intimate experience. The surface should provide sufficient springiness without excessive sinking, as excessive sinking may give the feeling of fighting against the mattress. Additionally, some degree of contouring ensures adequate traction and controlled movements. Edge support is also crucial, as a mattress that sinks excessively along the edges may limit the usable surface area.
- Temperature Regulation: A significant number of people tend to sleep hot due to mattresses that absorb and retain body heat. If a mattress lacks components that promote air circulation, such as coils or ventilated foam/latex layers, it is more likely to feel uncomfortably warm. Generally, all-foam mattresses have a higher tendency to sleep hotter compared to other mattress types.
- Pressure Relief: Sleeping on a mattress that does not provide an ideal balance of conformity and support often leads to the development of pressure points. The mattress layers should contour closely enough to support the spine. However, excessive sinking around heavier areas, such as the stomach and hips, can result in increased pressure throughout the body. Consequently, selecting the appropriate firmness based on your body type and preferred sleep position ensures overall pressure reduction.
- Odor: Most mattresses emit an initial odor upon unpacking, but some have stronger and longer-lasting smells. Beds with foam layers typically have a more pronounced initial odor due to the emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) by polyfoam, which carries a distinct chemical smell. Latex beds may also have a slight rubbery odor when new. The majority of mattresses cease emitting an initial odor within approximately one week.
- Ease of Movement: Ease of movement refers to how much a mattress sinks when you get in and out of bed. Models with zoned layers, coil systems, and other reinforcing components generally offer a more responsive surface, resulting in reduced sinking – especially for individuals weighing over 230 pounds. Memory foam, soft latex, and other contouring materials often have greater sinking, making movements across these mattresses more challenging.
- Edge Support: A mattress with strong edge support will exhibit minimal to no sinkage when sitting or sleeping near the perimeter. This makes getting in and out of bed easier and can instill a sense of security while sleeping near the edges. Conversely, a mattress with weaker edge support may make it more difficult to get on and off the bed, and sleeping near the perimeter can be problematic – particularly for individuals weighing over 230 pounds.
Next, let’s delve into the pricing of all available Casper and Helix models in each size option.
Aside from size, several factors can influence the cost of a new mattress. Beds constructed with high-density memory foam, organic latex, and other premium materials generally come at a higher price compared to those incorporating less expensive components. The mattress’s profile may also influence pricing, as thicker beds typically consist of more individual layers, each of which contributes to the overall price point.
When it comes to customizability, there are various factors to consider. For instance, mattresses with a fixed firmness level often come at a lower price compared to those that offer adjustable firmness levels, reversible models with different feels on each side, or dual-firmness options for couples with different comfort preferences. Additionally, beds with built-in sleep tracking technology, app-based controls, and other high-tech features tend to come with a higher price tag.
Another important aspect to keep in mind is that some brands simply charge more for their mattresses compared to their competitors. To make sure you’re fully aware of the costs, it’s essential to factor in shipping and return fees, prorated charges for mattresses with longer warranties, and any other additional costs that may arise later on.
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As you can observe from the provided tables, Casper offers a wider range of prices for their mattresses. The most affordable option is the Element, followed by the Casper Original and Casper Original Hybrid at mid-range prices, and the Nova Hybrid and Wave Hybrid at a higher price point.
In the case of Helix mattresses, the price range is slightly narrower since all six standard hybrids share the same price in each size. The same applies to the LUXE hybrids.
The Casper Wave Hybrid is considered to be priced above average for a hybrid model. However, the other Helix and Casper hybrids, as well as their all-foam mattresses, have price points that are on par with, if not below, industry averages. On average, a queen-sized all-foam mattress costs between $900 and $1,200, while a queen-sized hybrid mattress ranges between $1,600 and $2,200.
100 Nights (30-Night Requirement)
Enjoy the convenience of a 100-night sleep trial with no minimum requirement.
Free Shipping to Contiguous U.S. and Canadian Provinces
Take advantage of free ground shipping on all orders within the contiguous 48 states and Canada. Additional delivery charges apply for customers in Alaska, Hawaii, Northwest Territories, Nunavut, and Yukon. Standard ground orders are typically shipped within one to two business days. If you reside in the lower 48 states, you also have the option of White Glove delivery for a flat fee of $149, which includes in-home assembly and old mattress removal.
Helix offers free ground shipping to all 50 states. Canadian customers incur a flat delivery charge of $250, excluding deliveries to Northwest Territories, Nunavut, or Yukon. Most Helix customers receive their mattress within five to 10 business days. Helix also provides in-home mattress setup for $149 or $199, depending on the specific products ordered. If you opt for White Glove delivery, the mattress will not be compressed, and you or another adult will need to be present upon courier arrival.
For ground shipping, both Casper and Helix mattresses are rolled and compressed, wrapped in plastic, and vacuum-sealed. This packaging method ensures that the mattress can fit into a standard shipping box and be conveniently delivered to your doorstep. No signature or being at home is required for these orders. However, if you choose White Glove delivery, the mattress will not be compressed, and you or another adult must be present at home for the couriers.
Return policy
Most mattress companies today offer a sleep trial, allowing you to test the mattress and return it if it doesn’t suit your needs.
All Casper mattresses come with a 100-night sleep trial. There is no required break-in period, so you can return the mattress at any time within the 100-night window. In the event of a return, Casper will provide a full refund for the mattress and arrange for couriers to pick it up from your residence. You also have the option to exchange the mattress for a different Casper model. Simply request a mattress return and coordinate the new purchase with a member of Casper’s customer support team. All returned Casper mattresses are recycled or donated to charity.
Helix also offers a 100-night sleep trial for all their mattresses. However, a mandatory break-in period of 30 nights is required before you can return or exchange your Helix mattress. After the 30-night period, if you decide to return your Helix mattress, couriers will be sent to collect it, and you’ll receive a full refund. Helix makes an effort to donate returned mattresses, but in some cases, they are recycled.
Warranty
A warranty provides assurance from the manufacturer that the product will perform for a specified number of years. If any defects or premature damage occur, the manufacturer is responsible for repairing or replacing the product. Most mattresses on the market today come with warranties that typically last 10 years or more.
When comparing Helix Sleep and Casper, you’ll find that both companies offer comparable warranty coverage. Casper mattresses are covered by a 10-year warranty, which is fully non-prorated. This means that you won’t need to pay anything apart from shipping and transportation fees if your mattress requires repairs or replacement due to defects such as sagging or body impressions of 1 inch or deeper, physical flaws that cause premature deterioration, or manufacturing defects associated with the cover’s zipper assembly.
Helix standard hybrids come with a 10-year warranty, while the Helix Plus and all LUXE hybrids have a 15-year warranty. Like the Casper warranty, these warranties are fully non-prorated, ensuring no additional charges if your mattress needs replacement. The warranty covers sagging and body impressions of 1 inch or deeper, physical flaws leading to premature wear and tear, and cover-related issues.
In conclusion, when selecting a mattress, it’s important to carefully consider factors such as customizability, brand pricing, shipping procedures, return policies, and warranty coverage to ensure you make an informed decision based on your individual needs and preferences.
