A $2,899+ price tag for a Sleep Number Bed can be a little too expensive if you’re not going to take advantage of all the features it comes with.
The good news is, that there are many more options out there and I have put them to the test.
Take a look at our 5 best Sleep Number Bed alternatives that are just as smart but even more comfortable!
Sleep Number Bed Alternative Comparison
| Key Features Comparison | Sleep Number Bed | Air Pedic Bed |
| Warranty | 15 Years | 30 Years |
| Foam Compression Warranty | Not Included | Included |
| Sleep Trial Period | 100 Night Trial | 120 Night Trial |
| Dual-Sided Adjustable Firmness | Included | Included |
| Lumber and Shoulder Adjustability | Not Included | Included |
| Bacteria and Mold Resistant | Not Included | Included |
| 100% made in the USA | Not 100% US-made | 100% US-made |
| Patented Airflow Transfer System | Not Included | Included |
| 100% Certipur US Foam | Not Available | Included |
| Separate Remotes with digital display | Included | Included |
| Individual Remote Settings | Included | Included |
| US-based support | Included | Included |
| Overall Winner | Loser | Winner |
TL;DR -The 5 Best Sleep Number Bed Alternatives
- Air-Pedic 800 Mattress
- Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR ProAdapt Mattress
- Personal Comfort A2 Bed
- Leggett & Platt Prodigy 2.0 Adjustable Set
- Saatva Solaire Mattress
For those a little too excited to investigate the five incredible mattresses Sleepify has reviewed below, we’ll let you know our top pick right here which I have found.
We suggest the Air-Pedic as the best Sleep Number Bed alternative.
Wondering how the Air-Pedic matches up against the Sleep Number bed?
- Air-Pedic has a third air chamber (as opposed to Sleep Numbers two) which improves lumbar support. This prevents the “hammock effect” sometimes felt in the Sleep Number.
- Patented Airflow Transfer System – gives you up to 100 times more breathability, whereas a Sleep Number requires you to purchase a mattress topper
- Optimal support and advanced features—innovations and tech that are even better than the Sleep Number Bed
- The Air-Pedic 800 bed offers a great alternative to the Sleep Number i8 bed
- It can also be compared to the i10, ILE, Memory Foam addition, and various other Sleep Number models
- The Air-Pedic offers a 30-year warranty, whereas Sleep Number offers only 15 years
Experience the difference for yourself – use Sleepify700 for $900 off the Air-Pedic 800 Bed.
1. Air Pedic 800 Mattress
As I mentioned above, the Air-Pedic 800 bed is comparable to the Sleep Number i8 bed, the i10, ILE, Memory Foam addition, and more from the Sleep Number models. The Air-Pedic 800 beds boast a range of features that are not present in the i8 series, including:
- Three air chambers compared with two on the Sleep Number
- Bacteria and mould-resistant materials
- Uses 100% made-in-the-USA foam
- Comes with a remote control and a phone app to adjust the bed that has a memory button to save preferred settings
- 30-year warranty
- 120-night sleep trial
In our 30-night test, we found that the Air-Pedic provided a superb level of comfort and adjustability. The bed arrives pre-assembled and ready to use.
The three air chambers allow you to have the head and feet support at one pressure and the lumbar pressure at another! This helps to alleviate the sinking feeling that occurs when you only have two air chambers. This can be likened to sleeping in a hammock which isn’t great for your back! The Air-Pedic avoids this problem completely.
The bed arrives with a pump and remote to adjust the firmness, the pump can be a little bit loud but it’s not necessary to use it often. To alter the firmness all you need to do is use the remote to add or remove more air. The pump and remote system is super simple and it doesn’t require any technical knowledge to set up or use.
While Air-Pedic isn’t a brand as well-known as Sleep Number it makes a great alternative. Air-Pedics customer service can also accommodate customisation requests (within reason).
However, we found from our tests that the Air-Pedic conforms to the body immediately, and even if it doesn’t, you can adjust it to your needs. This is especially true for those who suffer from back pain. You can get the bed into the right position for you.
The Air-Pedic 800 bed is our top choice for a smart bed that is more than comparable to the Sleep Number bed.
2. Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR ProAdapt Mattress
The Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR ProAdapt Mattress has outstanding deep-rejuvenation technology and adaptable support. The bed is easy to keep clean and has several features that even beat Sleep Number at its own game:
- CertiPUR-US approved foam
- Hypoallergenic foam
- Motion isolation technology
- Tempur-apr for pressure relief
- Tempur comfort layer
- Removable and washable smart climate dual covers
- 10-year warranty
- 90-night sleep trial
The Tempur-Pedic mattress is available in a range of different firmnesses. Which firmness you like will come down to personal preference, but from our personal experience, your Tempur mattress type will come down to two things: sleeping position and weight.
- Soft is best for lightweight side sleepers
- Medium is optimal for mid-weight side sleepers
- Firm is ideal for heavy and stomach sleepers
- Hybrid adds bounce and cooling
From testing Tempur-Pedic mattresses, one thing we noticed is that they tend to run firmer than other mattresses. This means that there is going to be a long break-in period of at least two weeks, more likely a month.
So don’t be put off if the Tempur-Pedic doesn’t feel quite right after the first night. Our team noticed it took quite a while to adjust to the mattress, waking up in the middle of the night because it felt different. However, once this period is over it provides a comfortable and supported night’s sleep.
One tip is that walking gently on the mattress can help speed up the break-in process! Even after the mattress has been worn in, it does feel different to most other memory foam mattresses as Tempur foam is unique; but this is why so many people love the brand.
For those looking for the closest feel and feature set to Sleep Number mattresses, there’s no doubt you’ll be happy with Tempur-Pedic’s ProAdapt mode.
3. Nectar Premier Mattress
The Nectar Premier is Nectar’s improved mattress that has a thicker foam than the original Nectar and can be paired with an adjustable bed frame for a cheaper Sleep Number alternative.
- 13 inches thick
- Available in all-foam and hybrid versions
- Hybrid has pocketed coil support core
- 3″ of transition foam in both versions
- 3″ layer of gel memory foam comfort layer
- Ships free via bed-in-a-box
- 365 night risk-free trial period
- Lifetime warranty
After sleeping on the Nectar Premier we noticed that it had a softer feel while remaining on the lower side of medium firmness. This makes it good for side sleepers needing pressure relief, while the hybrid mattress is best for heavier people above 220lbs.
When we tested the mattress with couples, they reported that the all-foam version had better motion isolation. Overall, the mattress conformed closely with the body but avoided having the “stuck” feel that some softer mattresses have; which was impressive.
4. Leggett & Platt Prodigy LBR Adjustable Bed Set
For the most feature-packed smart bed on our list, the Leggett and Platt is your top choice and is certainly capable of beating out the Sleep Number Bed.
- Programmable remotes
- Smartphone support
- High-quality materials conform to sleepers
- Under-bed lighting
- Built-in alarm clock
- Adaptable mattress position
- Up to 850 lb movement capacity
- Massager features
- 15-year warranty
The Prodigy LBR was the most adjustable bed that I tested; there are an incredible amount of features. To get one, you’ll need to arrange for Leggett & Platt to deliver and set up the bed due to its heavy-weight steel construction. This is offered free of charge and the company highlights having a high degree of availability.
It’s different from other mattresses such as the Sleep Number, as it uses motors rather than air pumps. It’s adjustable at the head and feet of the bed as well as having lumbar support that activates when the head of the bed is raised.
Elevating the head of the bed can be great for alleviating acid reflux. Not to mention that the pillow tilt function also made it great for when I read or watch TV in bed!
When I lay on the bed while it was flat, the lumbar support was not felt at all. Also when I adjusted the bed into different positions it never moved away from the wall when inclining as some other adjustable bed frames do.
I was also amazed that the Leggett & Platt Prodigy LBR bed can be placed directly onto storage drawers or another platform.
5. Saatva Solaire Mattress
The Saatva Solaire Mattress is renowned for its comfort and adjustable features. It is comparable to the Sleep Number C Prodigy 2.0 Leggett & Platt Adjustable Bed Baseseries bed.
- Remote controlled
- Multiple firmness options
- High-quality and durable materials
- Adjustable air chambers allow sleepers to customize
- Ideal for lightweight or medium-weight sleepers
- 25-year warranty
- 180-night trial period
The Solaire mattress is similar to the Sleep Number in that it is an adjustable air chamber mattress. When I tested the mattress, it adjusted from a plush to a firm feel remotely with a scale of 0-50. I also liked that it had split firmness levels for each side.
The mattress has a flippable top layer which on one side is latex and the other memory foam. The latex comfort layer is ideal for hot sleepers thanks to its cooling ability and has more of a bouncy feel when I tried it. At the same time, the memory foam comfort layer has more of a slow response with less movement.
For a more restful sleep on the most luxurious and comfortable mattress, choose Saatva Mattresses as an alternative to the Sleep Number bed.
Should I Get a Smart Bed?
Smart beds, like the Sleep Number bed, have a wide range of features, though they might not be suitable for everyone.
People who may benefit from a smart bed include:
- Those who want flexible firmness
- People who want to improve their sleep quality
- Couples, including those that want separate settings on their side of the bed
- Data-driven individuals who are interested in sleep-tracking
- Hot sleepers who require temperature control settings
- People who experience pain or aches and require additional support and comfort when sleeping
Things to Consider Before Buying a Smart Bed
Before you make your final decision on which Sleep Number bed alternative is suitable for you, consider the following:
Remote Control
The remote control is a great addition to your adjustable bed set.
There are a few different options available, including wired, phone-operated, and wireless remote controls.
It should be noted that wired remotes are often only on one side.
Mattresses
You will want to consider whether you want a soft mattress or a firm mattress. You might even be better suited with an adjustable frame that is separate from the mattresses if you want more options.
Also take into consideration whether you would prefer a hybrid mattress, memory foam for more support, or latex.
Adjustable Frame
If you want a basic adjustable frame that moves the head and feet up and down, there are some great affordable options.
However, if you want more features like massages or zero gravity, they will set you back a bit.
Sleeping Position
How you sleep can help determine what your ideal mattress or bed looks like.
For example, side sleepers, generally require something that is conforming and soft.
It would be best to find one that suits your sleeping style.
Level of Firmness
Firmness preferences can be influenced by how you sleep and your body weight.
For those looking for firmness and flexibility, a smart mattress would be ideal due to its customizable and adjustable features.
Noise
While most mattresses do not make much noise, it is worth considering whether any additional smart features would cause noise.
Sleep Trial and Warranty
A sleep trial is the ability to trial your bed in your home and return it if it’s not suitable for you. Some brands may offer a sleep trial, usually around 100 days.
A warranty can also protect you against any damage or defects in your new bed or mattress, but this doesn’t cover regular wear and tear issues and accidental damages.
Sleep trials and warranty terms will vary across brands due to the technology components. Ensure you read over the terms and conditions of your warranty.
Air Bed Deflation
Air mattresses may deflate or flatten overnight without you doing anything. This is a result of mattresses not being completely airtight and your sleep position.
Over 24 hours of use you’ll notice changes, though air temperature can cause deflation too; however, it won’t be too noticeable.
Colder nights and mornings will cause the air inside your mattress to ‘condense’ or decrease in size, which will deflate even a new bed, though when the day begins to heat back up, the air will expand and so will your mattress.
Inflatable Bed Care
There are different maintenance tasks for different beds. Here are some key tips to consider:
- You may experience some dipping or change in shape – rotate your inflatable bed around every six months to best keep its form
- Keep a close eye on wires or cabling – sometimes cabling finds its way into the steel mechanisms where it could be severed or spark
- For electric inflatable mattresses, it’s not a good idea to connect via an extension cord – keep the bed as close to your main power outlet as possible and use it as your primary power source
- Don’t jump on the bed – inflatable models are a little more sensitive when it comes to impact, so avoid jumping on the bed
- Keep food and drinks off the bed – food and water can severely damage electrical components and ruin air pressure sensors, causing permanent damage to the mattress
Flipping Inflatable Memory Foam Mattresses
I don’t suggest you flip the mattress unless its specific instructions tell you to do so.
Most memory foam mattresses and inflatable mattresses have layers of foam and inner springs that have to be kept in a specific layout from top to bottom for them to offer optimal comfort.
If you flip these mattresses, you’ll be sleeping directly on support foam or inflatable pumps, making it impossible to sleep comfortably.
Sleep Tracker With Pets
For those who like to sleep with their furry friends in bed, a few companies do offer sleep-tracking technology that intelligently differentiates between humans and pets.
It’s good to know that if your dog or cat sleeps at the foot of the bed and doesn’t move too much, they’ll be fine on all mattresses.
No model will pick up tiny bumps from pets, therefore keeping your sleep tracking data accurate.
How to Choose a Sleep Number Alternative
Our readers in search of a mattress similar to the Sleep Number variant should look at two significant points; comfort and customizability.
One thing Sleep Number is known for is the company’s hyper-responsive and comfortable air technology.
As sleepers relax into the Sleep Number, the company’s Responsive Air® technology intelligently ensures everyone on the bed is comfortable.
The Sleep Number Mattress’s dual air tech also ensures the sleep experience is sustained through the evening for all sleepers, including stomach sleepers and side sleepers. The Air Pedic 800 bed also allows for this customization.
On top of comfort, advanced features such as the company’s SleepIQ® technology routinely track sleepers’ movements and quality of sleep, so there’s little left to the imagination when it comes to figuring out how well you’ve slept.
Back sleepers will also love that SleepIQ ensures plenty of firmness that’s akin to a firm innerspring mattress.
All of that said the Air Pedic is a great competitor to the Sleep Number Mattress for savvy shoppers, and although in some cases that’s true, there are a few brands that come quite close.
With all the advanced features, you may even fall asleep faster!
FAQs
Who competes with Sleep Number?
The best Sleep Number alternative is the Air-Pedic mattress. I would also recommend checking out our Sleep Number vs iSense article for an insight into another solid competitor.
What bed is comparable to the Sleep Number?
The Air Pedic Mattress 800 is the best mattress to compare to the Sleep Number bed. It includes a higher warranty, a longer sleep trial period, is bacteria and mould resistant, and is 100% US-made.
Are Sleep Number beds overpriced?
Sleep Number beds may be better suited for couples as they benefit more from the various features.
However, if you sleep alone, the Sleep Number bed could be seen as an overpriced option.
What are the problems with Sleep Number beds?
One of the most common issues with the Sleep Number bed can be deflation issues.
Some customers have reported that air can leak out of the mattress.
Our Takeaway
While the Sleep Number bed is renowned for its durability and support, there are many fantastic alternatives on the market.
You don’t need to spend upwards of $2,000 to $3,000 for an air pump-assisted smart mattress when similar options are available and just as good. It is worth considering the comfort, sleep tracking, and features of a Sleep Number bed alternative.
Our top recommendation for a sleep number alternative is the Air Pedic 800 Mattress.
