The 2023 Showdown: Casper vs. Saatva Mattress

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Even after narrowing down your options to the Casper and Saatva mattresses, choosing between them can be quite challenging. Both companies are well-known manufacturers of mattresses sold directly to consumers, and both offer high-quality beds that appeal to a wide range of customers.

Saatva has been in the market since 2011 and has played a significant role in shaping the current mattress industry. On the other hand, Casper gained popularity quickly after its launch in 2014. While we will mainly compare their flagship mattresses — the Casper Original and the Saatva Classic — both companies produce several models at various price points.

Aside from the Casper Original, Casper also offers four other options: the Casper Hybrid, the Wave Hybrid, the Nova Hybrid, and the all-foam Element.

In addition to the Saatva Classic, Saatva also offers the Saatva HD, specifically designed for individuals weighing over 230 pounds, the Saatva Latex Hybrid, and the Saatva Youth, an innerspring mattress specifically created for children. Saatva also sells mattresses under different brand names, including the Loom & Leaf memory foam mattress, Zenhaven reversible latex mattress, and the Solaire airbed. However, this comparison guide will focus only on models under the Saatva brand.

Although both the Casper Original and the Saatva Classic are popular choices, they differ in many aspects. The Casper has a medium feel, scoring around 5 out of 10, and features an all-foam construction with a memory foam comfort layer known for its exceptional comfort. On the other hand, the Saatva is available in two heights and three levels of firmness: soft, medium firm, and firm. The Saatva also has a hybrid construction, combining foam and pocketed coils in the comfort layers and a support core made of recycled steel Bonnell coils.

Both mattresses provide a comfortable night’s sleep, but one may be better suited to your specific needs. To assist you in determining which one is the right choice for you, we will provide a comprehensive overview of everything you need to consider when deciding between the Casper and Saatva mattresses.

We have put in a lot of effort to guide you towards the mattresses that are best suited for you. Take a look at our complete list of mattress guides below!

Price Range (Queen)

Firmness Options

Medium (5), Medium Firm (6)

Soft (3), Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7), Firm (8)

Notable Features

  • Outstanding pressure relief

  • Enhanced support from zoned transition layer

  • Perfect combination of contouring and resilience

  • Coil-on-coil design provides bounce and pressure relief

  • The addition of a sleek Euro-style pillow top brings luxuriousness and enhanced comfort to the mattress.

    The mattress offers a wide range of options, catering to various preferences and needs.

    Models available:

    Sleep Trial & Warranty:

    – 100 Nights (30-Night Requirement)

    – 10 Year, Limited Warranty

    – 365 Nights ($99 Return Fee)

    – Lifetime, Limited Warranty

    Customer Service:

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    When purchasing a new mattress, one of the most critical considerations is the size that suits you best. While most manufacturers offer similar size options, the smallest and largest sizes may not always be included.

    Another important factor to consider is the height and weight. Taller beds are more convenient for individuals with mobility issues as they are easier to get in and out of. Additionally, sleepers weighing above 230 pounds benefit from thicker comfort layers that prevent them from sinking into the firmer support core. While weight is less significant, it’s worth considering as very heavy mattresses may be challenging to move and may exceed the weight limits of your bed frame.

    Size Options:

    – Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King, Split California King

    – Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King

    – Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King

    – Twin, Twin XL, Full

    – Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King

    – Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King

    Comparing the two brands, Saatva surpasses in terms of thickness and size options. The Saatva Classic comes in two different thickness measurements, 11.5 inches or 14.5 inches, and is available in eight sizes, including split king for adjustable beds. However, it does not offer the split California king size. The Saatva HD and Saatva Latex Hybrid also come in a split king option, excluding the split California king.

    The majority of customers are likely to find satisfaction with the available options provided by both companies. However, those who are specifically looking for sizes such as the split king and split California king may lean towards Saatva.

    When it comes to weight, Saatva’s mattresses are heavier compared to the Casper models. This is because of their construction, which incorporates both foam and steel coils. While this might not be a concern for many, individuals who anticipate moving their mattress frequently should consider the impact of having a bed that is too heavy to lift on their own.

    After subjecting both the Casper and Saatva mattresses to thorough testing, we have determined that both offer excellent construction and utilize high-quality materials. However, their designs and materials differ, making each more suitable for certain types of sleepers.

    The main distinction between the two mattresses lies in the fact that the Casper is composed entirely of foam, whereas the Saatva combines foam, pocketed coils, and an innerspring support core. Beyond that, their varying designs tackle different issues such as temperature regulation and edge support.

    In the following sections, we will delve into these differences and what they mean for you. Furthermore, we will not only explain the construction of each company’s flagship mattresses but also touch upon some of the other mattresses they have on offer.

    The Casper mattress is a foam mattress that incorporates both polyfoam and memory foam in its construction. It is available in a single height and firmness, measuring 11 inches in height and possessing a medium level of firmness. Therefore, its construction remains consistent, unlike that of the Saatva.

    Unlike having a pillow top, this mattress features a soft and stretchy cover that can be unzipped. Eco-conscious shoppers will appreciate that this cover is made from upcycled cotton, recycled polyester, polyester, rayon, and lycra. While the cover can be removed for cleaning, Casper recommends spot-cleaning to prevent shrinkage.

    Casper is renowned for its excellent pressure relief, which is achieved through its comfort system. The first layer consists of 1.5 inches of polyfoam, followed by a 2-inch layer of zoned memory foam. The combination of these two foam types provides targeted compression similar to memory foam but with added bounce and improved ease of movement from the more responsive polyfoam.

    The polyfoam also adds structure to the overall design of the bed, ensuring better edge support and preventing most sleepers from sinking too far down to the firmer support core.

    For its support core, the Casper utilizes a 7-inch layer of high-density polyfoam, which also reinforces the perimeter. This is a standard design for foam mattresses, as polyfoam is responsive enough to stabilize the bed and support sleepers. Although polyfoam is less expensive compared to Saatva’s combination of pocketed and Bonnell coils, it may sacrifice some durability and support.

    In addition to the all-foam Casper Original, customers have the option to choose the Casper Hybrid. This mattress shares the same design as Casper’s flagship model, but with one key difference: its support core contains pocketed coils encased in high-density polyfoam. The coils contribute to a more bouncy surface and provide additional support for sleepers. However, the Casper Hybrid’s medium feel is similar to that of the Casper Original.

    However, the Casper Original and Casper Hybrid are not the only mattresses offered by the brand. Their lineup also includes the Casper Element, a value-priced foam mattress. The Element is 2 inches thinner compared to the others and solely utilizes ventilated polyfoam in its comfort layer.

    On the other hand, the Casper Nova Hybrid and Casper Wave Hybrid are more expensive than both the Casper and the Element due to their support cores comprising pocketed coils and a high-density polyfoam perimeter.

    The primary distinction between the two mattresses lies in their comfort systems: the Nova Hybrid incorporates the same ventilated polyfoam as the Element, while the Wave Hybrid integrates polyfoam, blended latex, and memory foam (all of which are ventilated for optimal airflow). Both the Nova and Wave hybrids feature ergonomically zoned transitional layers.

    Compared to Casper, Saatva’s design is more intricate, offering six model options with three firmness ratings and two heights.

    In each firmness model, the comfort layers follow a consistent construction, utilizing softer or firmer foams depending on the chosen firmness level. The distinction in heights is reflected in the Bonnell coil support core, which measures four inches in the 11.5-inch model and seven inches in the 14.5-inch version.

    The comfort system of the Saatva mattress begins with a Euro-style pillow top situated within its integrated, 100-percent organic cotton cover. Alongside a 0.75-inch layer of dacron fibers, the soft and medium-firm models include a 1.25-inch layer of softer polyfoam in the pillow top, while the firm model utilizes a 1.5-inch layer of firmer polyfoam.

    As previously mentioned, all Saatva models share similar comfort layers: thin layers of both polyfoam and memory foam, combined to create one inch of pressure-relieving foam. This is followed by the most distinctive feature of the Saatva mattress—a 4-inch layer of 14.5-gauge pocketed coils. These coils serve as both a comfort layer and a transitional layer, providing targeted, durable support while preventing sleepers from sinking into the support core.

    The support core consists of a Bonnell coil innerspring design, composed of 13-gauge recycled steel coils. Due to the presence of the transitional pocketed coil layer, this support core overcomes certain drawbacks—such as poor performance in categories like motion isolation and pressure relief—while still delivering impressive durability and above-average edge support.

    Saatva not only offers the Saatva Classic but also other mattress lines, including the Zenhaven, Loom & Leaf, and Solaire. Additionally, they provide two variations of the Saatva Classic: the Saatva HD and Saatva Youth.

    Designed for sleepers weighing over 230 pounds, the Saatva HD is a 15.5-inch mattress with a firm feel and reliable support. It distinguishes itself with a significantly different construction compared to the Saatva Classic. The comfort system measures 5 inches in thickness and incorporates ergonomically zoned, natural Talalay latex, memory foam, and polyfoam. For its support core, the Saatva HD employs six inches of 12.5-gauge offset coils, high-density polyfoam perimeter support, and a 2-inch base of high-density polyfoam.

    The Saatva Youth is a flippable mattress designed to accommodate your child as they grow. The softer side is suitable for children aged three to seven, while the firmer side is intended for ages eight through twelve. To achieve this versatility, Saatva utilizes a central, dual-sided innerspring support core, accompanied by a comfort system comprising soft, ergonomically zoned polyfoam for younger children and supportive high-density polyfoam for approaching adolescence.

    Finally, Saatva introduces their newest mattress, the Saatva Latex Hybrid. This model features a comfort layer of ventilated Talalay latex placed above a pocketed coil support core. While the latex conforms moderately to the body, it doesn’t provide the same “body-hugging” sensation as memory foam. Additionally, the latex is highly responsive, resulting in increased surface bounciness compared to the Saatva Classic. The Saatva Latex Hybrid is also accompanied by an organic cotton cover certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard.

    As part of our comprehensive evaluation process, we meticulously assess each mattress across eight distinct categories. These categories encompass a wide range of aspects and features that hold utmost significance when purchasing a mattress. By doing so, we aim to assist sleepers in identifying the most suitable mattress that caters to their unique needs.

    In terms of overall scores, both the Saatva and Casper mattresses fared well. However, they each possess distinctive advantages and disadvantages within these categories. To provide a clear picture, we have compiled and compared the grades of each mattress, as well as similar models offered by their respective manufacturers.

    • Longevity: Every mattress must be replaced eventually, but some possess greater durability than others. Though determining the exact durability of a new mattress can be challenging, it is possible to make informed estimations based on customer experiences, material quality, and construction. A durable mattress also resists common issues that may not render it completely unusable but can still make sleeping less enjoyable, such as sagging, broken coils, and persistent foam indentations.
    • Isolation of Motion: This category holds particular importance for individuals who share a bed, as it measures the extent to which a mattress is disturbed when a sleeper adjusts their position or moves. Mattresses with poor motion isolation may disrupt your sleep whenever your partner shifts, while those with outstanding performance in this area minimize motion transfer to a significant degree.
    • Intimacy: The suitability of a mattress for sexual activities is influenced by various factors, including bounce, edge support, ease of movement, and more. Generally, excessively soft and pressure-relieving mattresses tend to underperform in this regard compared to bouncier alternatives. However, softer foams do enhance traction, which can also be significant in this category. Depending on individual preferences, the importance of this category may vary when choosing a mattress.
    • Temperature Regulation: Not all mattresses maintain an optimal temperature, and some may cause sleepers to feel excessively warm and uncomfortable. Poor airflow often contributes to this issue, making some individuals feel excessively sweaty. In general, mattresses made entirely of foam tend to retain more heat and exhibit inferior airflow compared to those with a more open structure. Manufacturers employ various techniques, such as ventilation, specialized foams, and innovative materials, to address this challenge. A well-rated mattress in this category finds the perfect balance between warmth on colder nights and a cool, refreshing feel during hotter nights.
    • Pressure Relief: Depending on one’s preferred sleep position, pressure points can emerge in different parts of the body. Inadequate pressure relief can lead to next-day pain, stiffness, and an overall uncomfortable sleep experience. Individuals with chronic pain, particularly in the back, neck, and shoulders, often require effective pressure relief. Although many associate memory foam with superior pressure relief, mattresses with a more resilient feel and firm support can also excel in this category.
    • Off-Gassing: Just like new cars have their distinct scent, mattresses exhibit a similar quality. However, this odor dissipates over time, typically within several days after setup. The volatile compounds responsible for this scent are mostly harmless, but many individuals prefer to wait until it dissipates before sleeping on their new bed. A high score in this category ensures you won’t have to wait excessively long.
    • Ease of Movement: Some mattresses offer greater ease of movement than others. Generally, mattresses that give you a sensation of sleeping “in” them tend to receive lower scores in this category compared to those that make you feel like you’re sleeping “on” them. This can be attributed to the surface conforming closely to your body, making it more challenging to change positions or get out of bed. While a high score in this category may not be a priority for everyone, it is a crucial factor for a mattress’s suitability for sexual activities and can greatly benefit individuals with mobility concerns.
    • Edge Support: This category revolves around how well a mattress provides support around its edges. Mattresses with excellent performance in this area allow sleepers to rest near the edge without feeling unsupported or at risk of rolling off. They also exhibit sufficient stability when sitting on the edge, avoiding any sagging sensations. Couples often favor mattresses with good edge support, as it allows them to fully utilize the entire surface of the bed and sleep wherever they find the most comfort.

    Pricing for mattresses can vary significantly due to various factors. The foremost and most influential factor is the construction of the bed. While there may be exceptions, mattresses with similar constructions typically fall within the same price range. Synthetic foam and traditional innerspring mattresses tend to be more affordable, whereas hybrids, latex beds, and adjustable air beds occupy the higher price spectrum.

    Nevertheless, there are additional factors at play. Extravagant mattresses, which may incorporate a range of elements such as all-natural materials and cutting-edge technology, naturally come with a higher price tag compared to more conventional beds. The quality of the materials and construction also contribute to the cost, although it is worth noting that some reasonably priced beds are still crafted with care using top-notch materials.

    Price can also be influenced by factors unrelated to the bed itself. For instance, companies that heavily promote their products may pass on that cost to consumers, whereas companies with limited marketing may have lower prices but be less well-known.

    Lastly, price is largely dependent on the size and height of the mattress. Of course, this is relative: a king-size mixed-foam mattress is likely to be significantly less expensive than a twin-size adjustable air bed.

    Special Offer from the Sleep Foundation:

    Sleep Foundation readers receive the best price on Casper products.

    Special Offer from the Sleep Foundation:

    15% off orders of $1,000 or more.

    As demonstrated by these tables, Saatva and Casper align with prevalent mattress pricing trends, with the innerspring hybrid Saatva being more expensive than the all-foam Casper. However, the Saatva falls slightly below the average price for an innerspring hybrid (though it remains average for an innerspring), while the Casper is on the higher end of the average range for an all-foam bed.

    The Saatva is noticeably more affordable than the Casper Nova Hybrid and the Casper Wave Hybrid. However, this is expected as the Saatva, being a non-hybrid, has its pocketed coils incorporated into the comfort system rather than serving as the support core. On the other hand, the Saatva HD has a higher price due to its natural Talalay latex and substantial profile. The Saatva Latex Hybrid is priced similarly to the average hybrid model. It serves as a suitable mid-range compromise between the budget-friendly Saatva Classic and the high-end Saatva HD.

    For budget-conscious sleepers, the Casper Element offers many of the same attractive features as the Casper Original at a lower price point. Nevertheless, this does result in a thinner profile and a less robust design, which is a common tradeoff with affordable options.

    The Saatva Youth stands out due to its unique appeal and limited sizes. However, when evaluated as a reversible mid-range innerspring, its price falls around the average range.

    100 Nights (30-Night Requirement)

    Free shipping to contiguous U.S. and Canadian Provinces

    365 Nights ($99 Return Fee)

    Free White Glove delivery to contiguous U.S.

    Casper ships its mattresses across the U.S. and Canada. Shipping is free within the contiguous U.S. and most of Canada, with the exception of Hawaii, Alaska, and the Canadian territories, which incur additional charges. UPS Ground handles the shipping, and most customers receive their mattress within two to five days after purchase. Same-day courier deliveries are available in New York City, Los Angeles, and San Francisco.

    Saatva offers free shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. and some parts of Canada. Customers can schedule a four-hour window for their expected delivery, with no cancellation fee before the delivery day. An adult must be present at home for the delivery. Depending on the location, customers should anticipate a delivery window of seven to eighteen days after purchase to receive their new bed.

    The Casper ships in a compact and rolled configuration, contained within a box, facilitating convenient transportation throughout your abode and into the bedroom. Nonetheless, for individuals who prefer to delegate the arduous task of lifting and arranging, both Casper and Saatva offer the esteemed White Glove delivery service. This alternative encompasses a dedicated team who will deliver your pristine mattress, meticulously arrange it according to your preferences, and responsibly dispose of your prior mattress if necessary.

    Casper extends the courtesy of complimentary White Glove delivery exclusively within the contiguous United States for king or California king size Wave Hybrid mattresses. For other sizes of the Wave Hybrid and other Casper models, this service is available at a supplementary cost.

    Numerous online mattress manufacturers afford customers the opportunity to embark on sleep trials, which permit individuals to immerse themselves in the full experience of a mattress before making a final commitment. The acclimation process to a new mattress generally takes up to one month, rendering these trials invaluable.

    Casper generously offers a sleep trial spanning an extensive duration of 100 nights. There is no mandatory initial adjustment period, enabling customers to initiate a return and procure a complete remittance inclusive of any shipping fees incurred. However, it is important to note that White Glove delivery fees are nonrefundable. The return process incurs no additional expenses as Casper diligently arranges for couriers to collect your mattress for disposal or donation. Furthermore, since Casper distributes through the esteemed platform of Amazon.com, the sleep trial is equally accessible to their esteemed customers. Nevertheless, returns are rendered unattainable beyond the culmination of the specified trial period.

    Saatva, in turn, presents a generous sleep trial spanning an extraordinary span of 365 nights. Exempt from any prerequisite time for adjustment, customers are entitled to a complete reimbursement, except for a nominal fixed $99 transportation fee, should they choose to return the mattress within the trial period. A remarkable attribute of Saatva’s trial lies in the unique ability to exchange the current mattress for an alternate size, level of firmness, or height. Customers are simply required to pay the difference, if applicable, along with a $99 shipping fee. Just like Casper’s policy, Saatva dispatches couriers to collect the returned mattress for responsible disposal or donation. Similar to Casper, returns are unattainable once the sleep trial has reached its conclusion.

    Mattress warranties exist to provide a sense of assurance in the event of manufacturing flaws or defects, but seldom encompass normal wear and tear or damage attributable to the owner. The majority of mattresses available on the market possess some form of warranty, albeit the duration and specific terms diverge among manufacturers.

    Both Casper and Saatva diligently address these concerns in their respective warranty policies. Both warranties vouchsafe indemnity for foam impressions exceeding a depth of one inch, alongside encompassing manufacturing flaws and defects. Additionally, the warranty of both brands becomes null and void if the mattress is not provided with a suitable foundation or if ownership is transferred. However, the stipulations and duration of the warranty separate the two.

    Casper entitles customers to a non-prorated warranty spanning a decade. In the event that any of the covered issues materialize within ten years of purchase, Casper pledges to either repair or replace the mattress. Return shipping fees are covered by Casper, although customers bear the responsibility of shouldering the cost of shipping the mattress back to the company.

    Saatva, on the other hand, provides a lifetime warranty for every mattress. The manufacturer demonstrates unwavering commitment by offering repair or replacement at no additional charge during the initial two years of ownership. Post this period, owners are required to remit a reasonable fee of $149 to cover transportation costs, while repairs and replacements remain free of charge.

    Additionally, Saatva presents an alternative option for mattress owners known as the ‘Fairness Replacement Option.’ Under this arrangement, Saatva will continue to repair and replace mattresses free of charge for the first two years. Commencing in the third year, owners are responsible for paying a specified percentage of the mattress’s original retail price. The percentage escalates gradually based on the duration since the purchase and ranges from 40% to 80% over the remaining duration of the warranty coverage. Intriguingly, as part of the Fairness Replacement Option, owners are also allowed to retain their original mattress in addition to the replacement bed.

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