The Best Sleep Number Alternatives of 2025: Sleep Expert Tested
Get a similar experience to a Sleep Number mattress with our favorite alternatives.
- The Best Sleep Number Alternative Overall is the Helix Midnight Luxe with an adjustable base. It offers the level of flexibility people expect from Sleep Number beds, but with a high-end hybrid feel. The Helix also has a longer trial and warranty.
- Other top picks include the Saatva Solaire (i8 Smart Bed Alternative), WinkBed Luxury Firm With Adjustable Base (P6 Alternative), Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe With Adjustable Base (C2 Alternative), and Bear Elite Hybrid With Adjustable Base (360 iLE Smart Bed Alternative).
- The best Sleep Number alternatives cost between $2,265–$4,599 for a queen-size mattress.
NCOA supports everyone’s right to age well. So we take the time to research, test, and recommend products that can help you live a healthier life. We’ve spent more than 2,500 hours researching and testing mattresses to give you the most accurate product reviews. To find the best mattresses, we:
- Consulted with sleep specialists like doctors, occupational therapists, and physical therapists for guidance on choosing the best mattress
- Put more than 130 models through a series of 19 different tests at our in-house lab
- Mystery-shopped more than 40 brands
- Surveyed more than 2,000 older adults on their sleep quality
- Interviewed experts on the importance of good sleep for older adults
- Worked with older adult testers to evaluate mattresses and get their opinion
- Read thousands of verified customer reviews
We’re constantly testing new mattresses and sleep products to give you the most accurate and up-to-date recommendations. Read more about our mattress review methodology.
When we surveyed older adults about the mattresses they purchased in the past five years, Sleep Number was the third most-mentioned brand.1 A lot of people consider a Sleep Number bed to be one of the best mattresses you can buy because of how you can personalize it to your own comfort level. Sleep Number beds use air chambers within the mattress to adjust firmness (your “sleep number” is your firmness rating from 1 to 100). You can adjust each side of the bed separately if you and your partner have different preferences. This can be a game-changer for improving your sleep.
“For many of us, sleep can become lighter and more fragmented as we grow older,” said Kerry Burnight, PhD, a gerontologist and author of Joyspan: The Art and Science of Thriving in Life's Second Half. “The right mattress can relieve joint pain, support mobility, and improve temperature regulation, all of which contribute to better sleep quality for older adults. Adjustable beds allow people to raise their head or legs, which can reduce back pain, help with breathing issues like snoring or sleep apnea, improve circulation, and make getting out of bed easier.”
That said, you don’t necessarily need to pay more or deal with the hassle of plugging in and adjusting your bed to get the benefits of a Sleep Number bed. There are many Sleep Number alternatives that offer comfort and flexibility at a much lower cost. We tested the top-rated mattresses on the market to find the best Sleep Number alternative. These five rose to the top of our list.
Helix Midnight Luxe
- Zoned hybrid support
- Plush yet responsive feel
- Longer trial and warranty than Sleep Number
Saatva Solaire
- Adjustable air mattress with 50 firmness levels
- Premium materials with a luxury feel
- Includes free white-glove delivery
WinkBed Luxury Firm
- Supportive luxury hybrid with a natural feel
- Strong support and pressure relief in all positions
- Sleeps cool despite its plush pillow top
Best Sleep Number Alternatives in 2025
- Helix Midnight Luxe with Adjustable Base: Best Sleep Number Alternative Overall
- Saatva Solaire: Best Sleep Number i8 Smart Bed Alternative
- WinkBed Luxury Firm with Adjustable Base: Best Sleep Number P6 Alternative
- Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe with Adjustable Base: Best Sleep Number C2 Alternative
- Bear Elite Hybrid with Adjustable Base: Best Sleep Number 360 iLE Smart Bed Alternative
Comparing the best Sleep Number alternatives
| Comparison Features | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Score (out of 10) | 9 |
9.4 |
9.2 |
9.5 |
7.9 |
| Best for | Overall |
Sleep Number i8 Smart Bed Alternative |
Sleep Number P6 Alternative |
Sleep Number C2 Alternative |
Sleep Number 360 iLE Smart Bed Alternative |
| Brand firmness rating | 6 |
Adjustable |
6.5 |
5 |
6 |
| Trial period (nights) | 120 |
365 |
120 |
120 |
120 |
*Ratings reflect a brand's overall offering; the best overall pick doesn't necessarily have the highest score
Understanding accessibility and pain relief scores
Based on our testing, surveys, and focus groups with older adults, we created these two scores:
- Accessibility score: The higher the score, the easier it is to get in and out of the bed and change positions.
- Pain relief score: The higher the score, the more likely it can help relieve pain.
Top features of the best Sleep Number alternatives
We looked for the following features when choosing the best Sleep Number alternative mattresses.
Helix Midnight Luxe With an Adjustable Base: Best Sleep Number Alternative Overall
We chose the Helix Midnight Luxe as the Best Sleep Number Alternative Overall. It offers the comfort and flexibility people look for in Sleep Number beds, but with the feel of a high-end hybrid mattress rather than air. The Midnight Luxe offers strong pressure relief, cooling, and support. It also works well with an adjustable base so you can enjoy elevated or zero-gravity positions. And it offers a longer trial and warranty than the Sleep Number C4, making it a strong alternative to the Sleep Number C4.
- Learn more in our Helix mattress review
- Three firmness options
- Supportive for any sleep position
- Our pain relief score: 4.21/5
- Accessibility score: 4.06/5
- Mattress type: Hybrid
- Brand’s firmness rating: 6/10
Pros
- Zoned support to keep the spine straight
- Works with an adjustable base
- Combines plush comfort and responsive support
- 120-night trial and lifetime warranty
Cons
- Couples cannot adjust their own sides
- The brand does not offer in-room setup or old mattress removal
Why we chose the Helix Midnight Luxe as the Best Sleep Number Alternative Overall
The Helix Midnight Luxe is our Best Sleep Number Alternative Overall because it delivers customized comfort like a Sleep Number bed, at a better value, and without air chambers. Sleep Number mattresses use air chambers to adjust pressure relief, while the Helix Midnight Luxe hybrid mattress features zoned support. Zoned support provides greater pressure relief under your lower back and softer support under your shoulders. This helps maintain spinal alignment in any sleep position.
The Helix earned high scores (4/5) for pressure relief in most of our other tests. The only exception was motion isolation, which was just average. Unlike the Sleep Number C4 mattress, you cannot adjust each side of the bed independently. This means couples with very different sleep preferences may not find this the best choice. Otherwise, the Helix is the top Sleep Number alternative we tried. When paired with the Helix adjustable base, it easily recreates the raised, weightless feel many older adults seek in a Sleep Number alternative. Helix also offers a longer trial period and warranty than Sleep Number.
Our testing experience with the Helix Midnight Luxe
Our testers liked the feel and responsive support of the Helix mattress. They noted that the top “feels nice and soft” and commented on the pillow top's texture. Under that plush comfort layer, our testers said this mattress felt firmer than others they tried, but were quick to point out that it wasn’t uncomfortable, just supportive. “It’s firm, but not like I’m lying on a hard, flat surface,” said one tester. “It hugs me gently,” said another.
Our testers also saw how responsive the Helix Midnight Luxe was. “It bounces back very quickly,” said one. “It's pretty firm and kind of hard to push in. The material immediately springs back to shape after I remove my hand.” The combination of springs and memory foam in this hybrid mattress kept their bodies supported in any sleeping position. Several testers noted that their bodies felt balanced and aligned. One said, “My hips feel aligned nicely… I don’t feel like I’m lacking support in any area.” Another tester said, “My body feels pretty well supported all over,” and noted no pressure building in the lower back or hips.
The spring also helped with moving on this mattress, which can be a benefit for someone with chronic pain or mobility issues. At the same time, that bounce could be disruptive for couples sleeping together, testers noted. They reported feeling it when another person got into bed, and although the movement didn’t ripple through the entire mattress, it was still noticeable. “It did make my body move, I bounced slightly,” said one tester. Light sleepers may notice this more, but heavy sleepers didn’t feel as bothered by partner movement.
Who is the Helix Midnight Luxe right for?
This mattress is great for people who want the best Sleep Number alternative but prefer the comfort of foam and coils instead of air. It’s especially good for side and back sleepers who want strong pressure relief and full-body support. It may not be ideal for couples, especially if one is a light sleeper.
| I may love it if I: | |
| Sleep with a partner | No |
| Have chronic pain | Yes |
| Feel hot at night | Yes |
| Have mobility concerns | Yes |
| Sleep in the following positions | Side, back, stomach |
The Helix customer experience
- Trial period: 120 nights
- Shipping: Free
- Warranty: Limited lifetime
Customer service
You can reach Helix customer service by:
- Phone: Call 831-777-5976, available Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET
- Text: Texting HELIX to 67069, available Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET
- Chat: Live chat via the bottom right corner of the website, available seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET
- Email: help@helixsleep.com
- Website: Submit a contact form
Payment options
Credit card payment options include Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover. Other options include Shop Pay, Amazon Pay, PayPal, and Google Pay. Helix offers financing through Affirm and Katapult.
The company currently offers 30% off for military members, first responders, students, and teachers. The discount code can’t be combined with other promotional codes.
Saatva Solaire: Best Sleep Number i8 Smart Bed Alternative
We chose the Saatva Solaire as the Best Sleep Number i8 Smart Bed Alternative because it offers the versatility and adjustable comfort you expect from a Sleep Number bed. But it also features higher-quality materials and a longer trial and warranty. With up to 50 firmness levels and the ability to adjust each side separately, the Solaire is one of the best Sleep Number alternatives available.
- Learn more in our Saatva mattress review
- Latex, memory foam, and gel-infused foam for pressure relief
- Designed for personalized comfort
- Our pain relief score: 4.22/5
- Accessibility score: 4.27/5
- Mattress type: Adjustable air mattress
- Brand’s firmness rating: Adjustable
Pros
- Up to 50 firmness levels and dual-sided adjustability
- Strong cooling and responsive support
- Free white-glove delivery
Cons
- The highest-priced mattress in this review
- May feel firmer for lighter sleepers
- Requires power and setup for the air system
Why we chose the Saatva Solaire as the Best Sleep Number i8 Smart Bed Alternative
We chose the Saatva Solaire as the Best Sleep Number i8 Smart Bed Alternative because both mattresses allow you to customize the firmness level you prefer. The left and right sides of the mattress can be adjusted independently for couples with different preferences.
The Solaire uses latex and foam over its adjustable core, which can be set to 50 firmness levels using a wireless remote. The Solaire performed well above average in all our tests, earning nothing lower than a 3.8/5. It has excellent scores for cooling, edge support, and pressure relief across all positions. The Solaire is also a good choice for couples due to its individual controls on each side of the mattress and its superior motion isolation.
You can expect to pay more for this luxury mattress, but its high-quality materials are backed by one of the industry’s longest sleep trial periods (365 nights) and a lifetime warranty. Saatva also offers free white-glove delivery on all its mattresses, which means removing your old mattress and setting the new one up in the room of your choice.
Our testing experience with the Saatva Solaire
Testers commented on the quality of the Saatva Solaire's materials almost immediately. “It feels cool to the touch, soft, and it is cushiony,” said Patti, a 74-year-old tester with a lighter body weight. “The fluffy quilted top is really nice and helps me stay on top of the mattress for some airflow. I really like this mattress for cooling.”
The Solaire uses an adjustable air-filled core and layers of foam and latex. When testers pressed down on the mattress, it sprang back, showing how responsive it is. “It has good bounce and popped back quickly,” she said. This can help with feeling on top of the mattress rather than sunk into it. It also makes switching positions easier than on other mattresses, a plus for people who may have chronic pain or mobility issues.
As our testers moved around on the Solaire, it kept its shape and support. Patti found she did not have to exert much energy to switch from her side to her back and from her back to her stomach. ”I don't feel any extra pressure on my lower back or hips,” she said. “My body is equally supported.” She noted the mattress felt firmer than she would prefer, but her lighter body weight may have contributed.
Testers were also impressed with the Solaire's edge support. Patti found she didn’t need to use her hands to push herself up when getting out of bed. The mattress felt uniformly supportive, even when lying near the edges. “I feel very stable,” Patti said. "I don’t think that I am going to roll off.”
Having separate, adjustable air chambers on either side of the Saatva Solaire helped minimize the motion transfer felt when two people shared the bed. “I felt it more when [someone] moved than when [they] got into the bed,” Patti said. “But even that wasn’t very pronounced. I think I could’ve slept through that.”
Who is the Saatva Solaire right for?
This mattress is a good choice for people who want a true Sleep Number alternative with strong adjustable support and premium materials. It’s especially great for couples who need different firmness settings or anyone who wants a luxury bed that stays cool and supportive. If you are willing to pay more for quality, this Sleep Number bed alternative is worth considering.
| I may love it if I: | |
| Sleep with a partner | Yes |
| Have chronic pain | Yes |
| Feel hot at night | Yes |
| Have mobility concerns | Yes |
| Sleep in the following positions | Side, back, stomach |
The Saatva Solaire customer experience
- Trial period: 365 nights
- Shipping: Free
- Warranty: Limited lifetime
Customer service
You can contact Saatva customer service by:
- Phone: Call 860-362-2641, available 24/7
- Email: info@saatvamattress.com
- Live chat: Available 24/7
- Calling or visiting a viewing room
Payment options
Payment options include Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, Google Pay, and PayPal. Saatva offers financing options through Affirm.
Note that Saatva offers $225 off a purchase of $1,000 or more to adults 65 and older, military members and their families, health care professionals, government employees, and more. This cannot be combined with other offers.
WinkBed Luxury Firm With Adjustable Base - Best Sleep Number P6 Alternative
We chose the WinkBed Luxury Firm as the Best Sleep Number P6 Alternative because it gives you the adjustable, high-end comfort you expect from beds like Sleep Number, but without the air-chamber feel. It’s one of the best Sleep Number alternatives for people who want strong support, cooling, and a luxury feel.
- Learn more in our WinkBeds mattress review
- Four firmness options, more than your standard mattress
- Features gel-infused foams and a breathable cover for cooler sleep
- Has zoned support for better alignment and reduced pressure
- Our pain relief score: 4.20/5
- Accessibility score: 3.99/5
- Mattress type: Hybrid
- Brand’s firmness rating: 6.5/10
Pros
- High-quality materials and construction
- Sleeps cooler than many foam-heavy beds
- Custom firmness and adjustability
Cons
- Cover is not removable
- Mattress may be a bit high for petite adults or those with mobility issues
- Less adjustable than true Sleep Number beds
Why we chose the WinkBed as the Best Sleep Number P6 Alternative
We chose the WinkBed Luxury Firm with adjustable base as the Best Sleep Number P6 Alternative. It offers customizable comfort, strong support, and a luxury build that rivals the P6, without requiring a power source. The WinkBed comes in four firmness levels, giving you options similar to the adjustable feel of the Sleep Number P6, which uses air settings to fine-tune firmness. Both mattresses blend comfort and support, but WinkBed uses zoned coils and premium foams instead of air chambers, which can make it feel more stable and natural under the body. While we did not test the P6 for comparison, the WinkBed achieved some of the best cooling scores (4/5), making it a good choice for hot sleepers.
While the WinkBed doesn’t allow different firmness levels on either side of the bed, the way the Sleep Number P6 does, it has other features couples may appreciate. The WinkBed’s durable design can support more weight than average (up to 1,000 pounds). It also scored well for edge support and motion isolation, which helps couples maximize the entire mattress surface and sleep undisturbed by their partner’s movements. We like that the WinkBed offers a longer sleep trial period and warranty than Sleep Number, too.
Our testing experience with the WinkBed
When we tested the WinkBed Luxury Firm, the first thing we noticed was how soft and inviting the top felt. “It feels very soft with tufts, like soft cotton,” said Patti, a 74-year-old combination sleeper with a lower body weight. She did voice some concern about the edge support, which felt weak to her. “If I was heavier, I think I would slide easily if I sat very close to the edge,” she said. Patti also found that the WinkBed's higher height (13.5 inches) made it slightly more difficult to get in and out of bed. This could be the case for anyone who is on the smaller side or who has mobility issues.
When lying on the WinkBed, Patti felt steadier and supported. “It doesn’t feel like I’ll topple over or fall,” she said, noting that the edges felt just as strong as the center. She could roll around easily and never felt stuck in the pillow top. She gave the mattress high scores for support (no rating below 4/5) in every position. “I feel overall aligned,” Patti said. “There is the slightest gap at my low back, probably because I don’t weigh enough to really sink into this mattress.”
Testers also noticed how well the WinkBed prevented heat buildup, and called it “one of the top mattresses I’ve tested based on how cool it feels.” “The top of the mattress feels soft like memory foam, but actually doesn’t feel like it traps heat like memory foam usually does,” said one tester.
Our testers also liked how the WinkBed performed with two sleepers. “It’s definitely less bouncy than others we’ve tested,” said one of our older adult testers. “I can tell it’s a hybrid, but there’s not enough bounce to disrupt me.” When another person got into bed or switched positions, our testers said they didn’t feel much, and definitely not enough to wake them. For couples seeking responsive support, the WinkBed Luxury Firm may be a good option.
Who is the WinkBed right for?
The WinkBed is a good pick for people who want a high-end cooling mattress that feels like a luxury hybrid but still works as a Sleep Number bed alternative. It’s great for hot sleepers, couples, and anyone who wants strong support without an air-chamber design. It’s also good for sleepers who want a durable, long-lasting mattress with a more traditional feel.
| I may love it if I: | |
| Sleep with a partner | No |
| Have chronic pain | Yes |
| Feel hot at night | Yes |
| Have mobility concerns | Yes |
| Sleep in the following positions | Side, back, stomach |
The WinkBed customer experience
- Trial period: 120 nights
- Shipping: Free
- Warranty: Limited lifetime
Customer service
You can reach WinkBeds customer service by:
- Phone: Call 855-946-5233, available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET
- Chat: Live chat via the bottom right corner of the website, available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET
- Email: info@winkbeds.com
Payment options
Credit card payment options include Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover. Other options include Shop Pay and Google Pay. WinkBeds offers financing through Bread and Katapult.
The company currently offers an additional $50 off for military members and their families, first responders, law enforcement, and health care workers.
Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe With Adjustable Base - Best Sleep Number C2 Alternative
We chose the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe as the Best Sleep Number C2 Alternative because it gives you the same kind of adjustable comfort and support you’d expect from a smart bed. But it has the feel of a traditional luxury hybrid and no need to plug it in. With multiple firmness options and great cooling, the Aurora Luxe stands out as a Sleep Number bed alternative that doesn’t feel complicated.
- Learn more in our Brooklyn Bedding mattress review
- GlacioTex™ cooling cover and copper-infused foam provide great temperature control
- Responsive design has zoned support for extra pressure relief
- Three firmness options allow you to customize your comfort like a Sleep Number
- Our pain relief score: 4.4/5
- Accessibility score: 4.5/5
- Mattress type: Hybrid
- Brand’s firmness rating: 5/10
Pros
- One of the coolest-feeling mattresses tested
- Strong edge support and great bounce
- Works well with adjustable bases
Cons
- May not isolate motion enough for couples
- Could feel too firm for some people
- Not ideal for stomach sleepers
Why we chose the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe as the Best Sleep Number C2 Alternative
We selected the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe with adjustable base as the Best Sleep Number C2 Alternative because it offers similar benefits, including custom firmness levels and exceptional cooling, without requiring power or frequent adjustments. We also liked the plush feel and strong support of the Aurora Luxe.
The C2 is one of the more basic models in the Sleep Number line, and uses air pockets to adjust the mattress firmness. The Aurora Luxe is available in only three firmness levels but scored highly in our tests for support, especially for back and side sleepers. Testers tended to rate it much firmer (8/10) than it actually is (5/10) due to its even support and strong, stable edges. The C2, which we did not test, has a much slimmer profile at only 8 inches. The Aurora Luxe has excellent pressure relief thanks to several layers of foam over coils.
Our testing experience with the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe
Two things stood out to testers right away: The Aurora Luxe is noticeably firm and cool to the touch. “I'm really impressed with the cooling of this mattress,” said one tester, who commented that it was “probably the coolest one I've touched so far.” He added that lying on the mattress was a similar experience. “I don't feel heat building up at all,” he said. “Every part of my body that's touching the mattress feels a few degrees cooler than everything else.”
Our testers also felt the Aurora Luxe's support. “There is firm resistance,” said one. “It is pretty responsive. When I press on it, it comes back up pretty quickly.” They gave it a perfect 5/5 score for bounce, which they said helped with changing positions in bed. “You sit on top of this mattress so much,” said one tester. “There is not much sinkage when lying down.” Our testers, even those with a higher body weight, rated the Aurora Luxe as much firmer (8/10) than its brand rating (5/10),
That strong, responsive support helped promote spinal alignment. “Everything is in line on this mattress,” said Chris, a 66-year-old tester with a higher body weight. “My shoulders and hips are in line, and I’m not sinking in at all.”
The lowest score Aurora Luxe received was for motion isolation, which was only average (3/5). That means it may not be ideal for anyone who shares a bed and might be easily disturbed by a partner moving around. But otherwise, our testers were impressed with this mattress.
Who is the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe right for?
This mattress may be a good choice if you want a Sleep Number alternative that still offers adjustable comfort but feels more like a luxury hybrid than an airbed. It’s also great for hot sleepers who need powerful cooling and for people who prefer sleeping “on” the mattress rather than sinking deeply into the foam. If you want a new bed like Sleep Number but with better bounce and easier movement, the Aurora Luxe is worth considering.
| I may love it if I: | |
| Sleep with a partner | No |
| Have chronic pain | Yes |
| Feel hot at night | Yes |
| Have mobility concerns | Yes |
| Sleep in the following positions | Side, stomach, back |
The Brooklyn Bedding customer experience
- Trial period: 120 nights
- Shipping: Free
- Warranty: Limited lifetime
Customer service
While mystery shopping, our team found Brooklyn Bedding to be inconsistent with its support hours. The website currently lists the following customer service options:
- Phone: Call 623-624-1222, available Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET, and Saturday through Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET
- Chat: Live chat via the bottom right corner of the website, available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET and Saturday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET
- Email: support@brooklynbedding.com
- Website: Submit a contact form
Payment options
Accepted credit card payments include: MasterCard, Visa, American Express, Discover, Amazon Pay, Shop Pay, Google Pay, and PayPal. Financing through Brooklyn Bedding is available through Affirm.
The company currently offers 5% off for military members, first responders, medical providers, students, and teachers. The discount code can’t be combined with other promotional codes.
Bear Elite Hybrid With Adjustable Base - Best Sleep Number 360 iLE Smart Bed Alternative
We chose the Bear Elite Hybrid with adjustable base as the Best Sleep Number 360 iLE Smart Bed Alternative because it gives you a high-end, luxury feel without relying on air chambers or smart tech. It offers a more natural hybrid feel with options for firmness and strong pressure relief.
- Excellent temperature control
- Choose soft, medium, or firm for personalized comfort
- Responsive, zoned support where you need it most
- Our pressure relief score: 4/5
- Accessibility score: 4.29/5
- Mattress type: Hybrid
- Brand’s firmness rating: 6/10
Pros
- Responsive hybrid support
- Excellent option for hot sleepers
- Custom firmness options
Cons
- Not ideal for those sleeping with a partner
- Edge support could be stronger
- Mattress height (14 inches) requires deep pocket sheets
Why we chose the Bear Elite Hybrid as the Best Sleep Number 360 iLE Alternative
We chose the Bear Elite Hybrid with adjustable base as the Best Sleep Number 360 iLE Smart Bed Alternative. It’s a premium option with great temperature control, but has a more traditional hybrid construction and doesn’t need to be plugged in. The Bear Elite uses individually wrapped coils and high-density foams for its plush feel, while the iLE uses an air-chamber support core and foam. The Bear Elite excelled in our cooling tests, showing only a 6-degree increase in temperature after use. The mattress has copper-infused foam to pull heat away from the body and add to its cooling capabilities.
It does not have the same adjustability as the iLE, but the Elite Hybrid does come in a choice of firmness levels. Paired with an adjustable base, the Bear Elite offers a blend of comfort and individual support. It didn’t score as well in our motion isolation testing, so it may not be well-suited for couples. But we like the quality, contouring comfort, and support of the Bear Elite.
Our testing experience with the Bear Elite Hybrid
At 14 inches, the Bear Elite hybrid mattress is taller than most. Its topper is thick and quilted, and our testers noted that the material on its sleep surface was not as soft as some others. “This mattress is more firm and hard to push down on,” said one tester, but it also bounces back quickly.
That is likely due to the Bear Elite’s hybrid construction. It has an innerspring foundation with zoned support under the hips, low back, and shoulders to improve spinal alignment and relieve pressure in those areas. Our testers found the mattress supported them well, regardless of their sleep position.
“This one feels pretty even on my side,” said Sheila, a 70-year-old combination sleeper. “My spine feels neutral. If anything, my low back and hips feel like they are sinking in maybe a little too much, but nothing too noticeable.” Another tester shared, “My body feels equally supported. My entire body sinks into the mattress, but not too much in one area.”
The Bear Elite Hybrid features copper-infused foam to draw heat away from the body, and its topper is infused with Celliant, a material that helps regulate temperature. Our testers rated the Bear Elite 4/5 for cooling, a rating supported by our heat-gun tests.
Like so many other hybrid mattresses we tested, the Bear Elite was not great at minimizing motion from a bed partner. Our testers could feel when someone lying next to them changed positions. “My whole body did a little bounce, especially my shoulders,” said a tester. “If I were a light sleeper I think I would be woken up.”
Who is the Bear Elite Hybrid right for?
This mattress is great for sleepers who want a luxury Sleep Number bed alternative that still offers firmness options but feels more like a classic hybrid. It works well for people who like a firmer surface with quick bounce-back and strong support. Hot sleepers, back sleepers, and people who prefer a sturdy, responsive feel may find it to be a great fit.
| I may love it if I: | |
| Sleep with a partner | No |
| Have chronic pain | Yes |
| Feel hot at night | Yes |
| Have mobility concerns | Yes |
| Sleep in the following positions | Side, back, stomach |
The Bear customer experience
- Trial period: 120 nights
- Shipping: Free
- Warranty: Limited lifetime
Customer service
You can reach Bear customer service by:
- Phone: Call 844-311-0035, available Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET
- Email: support@bearmattress.com
- Chat: Live chat via the bottom right corner of the website, available Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET
Payment options
Bear accepts MasterCard, Visa, American Express, Discover, PayPal, Venmo, and Google Pay. Financing is available through Affirm and ShopPay.
The brand currently offers a 40% discount for military members, first responders, law enforcement, health care workers, and teachers. This discount can’t be combined with other promotional codes.
Our process testing the best Sleep Number alternatives
To determine the best Sleep Number alternatives, we recruited real older adults with different body types and preferred sleeping positions to try out the mattresses. We researched the market and narrowed our list to beds that offered comfort, support, and adjustability comparable to Sleep Number beds. Our goal was to identify the best Sleep Number alternatives that remain easy to use, supportive, and safe for everyday use.
Then our team used both hands-on testing and measured data to compare each model to similar beds in the Sleep Number lineup. We wanted to understand how each mattress might work as a Sleep Number alternative in everyday use for a wide range of sleepers. The goal was to find Sleep Number bed alternatives that feel supportive, comfortable, and easy to move on at any age. We considered the following factors in our testing:
Customizability
Sleep Number beds are best known for their adjustable firmness, so we looked for mattresses that offer firmness options and are compatible with adjustable bases. We also looked for mattresses with excellent responsive support that could adapt easily to different sleep positions and body types.
Price
Sleep Number mattresses can be expensive, so we focused on high-value alternatives that still deliver premium comfort. We reviewed factors like warranty length, trial periods, delivery options (including free white-glove delivery and old mattress removal when offered), and customer service support, and weighed them against each bed's price. A good Sleep Number bed alternative should offer strong performance without the high long-term costs of air systems or tech-heavy repairs.
Pain relief
We created a pain relief formula that measured pressure relief, firmness, edge support, and bounce. A higher score meant the mattress was more likely to ease pain and keep the body supported throughout the night.
Pressure relief
To test pressure relief, we placed a sensor mat on top of each mattress. Testers lay on the mat in different positions, and the sensors created a color-coded thermal image to show the greatest and least areas of pressure. We then compared the pressure map results with tester feedback on areas where they felt discomfort or extra pressure.
Spinal support
We checked spinal support by having testers lie on each new bed in different positions. We asked how well aligned they felt and looked for signs of poor support, such as hips sinking below the shoulders. Since Sleep Number mattresses promote alignment through adjustable air, we ensured each Sleep Number alternative still provided solid alignment without air chambers.
Who should consider a Sleep Number alternative mattress?
Sleep Number mattresses are known for their adjustability and other smart features. But not everyone wants to invest the money and effort in a bed they have to plug in and continually adjust. Who should consider a Sleep Number alternative? You might, if any of the following apply to you:
- You have chronic pain: Finding a comfortable, supportive mattress isn’t easy when you live with chronic pain. Adjusting your mattress may help. Sleep Number alternatives can be an excellent choice for people with chronic pain who want strong support and pressure relief without the cost of a smart bed. Many alternatives use foams and coils that better cushion the shoulders, hips, and back.
- You and your partner prefer different firmness levels: Sleep Number alternatives can be a good compromise for couples. Sleep Number beds allow you to adjust each side’s firmness individually. But many alternatives offer firmness options, and most work well with adjustable bases, so if you purchase a split king, each partner can raise or lower their side to their preference.
- You are a combination sleeper: If you frequently switch positions at night, you may prefer a Sleep Number bed or an alternative because hybrid beds often make it easier to move around. They offer more bounce and quicker response than air chambers, which can help you switch positions with less effort.
What to look for when choosing a Sleep Number alternative mattress
Choosing the best Sleep Number alternative depends on your comfort and support needs. Many people want beds like Sleep Number but without the smart-bed price tag or air-chamber feel. A good alternative should provide strong support, solid pressure relief, and a range of comfort options that suit your sleep style.
It’s also essential to consider your body type, sleep position, and any pain you experience. Older adults, people with chronic pain, and couples with different needs often benefit from mattresses that provide easy movement, strong edge support, and compatibility with adjustable bases. Here are some things to look for:
Customization
Look for mattresses that come in more than one firmness level or that work well with an adjustable base. These features let you fine-tune your comfort, much like a Sleep Number bed, without using air.
Zoned support systems
Zoned support can help keep your spine aligned by adding extra pressure relief under your lower back. Mattresses with zoned support can be especially helpful for back pain.
Hybrid construction
Hybrid mattresses combine foam and coils, providing both contouring and support. This makes them one of the best Sleep Number alternatives, as they provide pressure relief without feeling overly soft or firm. You can see our guide to the best hybrid mattresses for more information.
Medium-firm to firm feel
Many people sleep best on a medium-firm or firm mattress because it keeps the spine aligned. This level of firmness works for most sleep positions and is often recommended for people with pain.2
Cooling technologies
If you sleep hot, look for gel foams, phase-change covers, or breathable coil systems. These features help pull heat away from your body and keep the surface cool all night.
Edge support and motion isolation
Strong edges make it easier to get in and out of bed, and good motion isolation helps couples sleep without waking each other. These features matter especially for older adults and light sleepers.
Trial periods and warranties
A long trial period gives you time to see if the mattress helps with pain and comfort. Good warranties also add value and protection, especially if you want a mattress that lasts many years. Sleep Number only offers a 15-year warranty on its mattresses.
How much do the best Sleep Number alternative mattresses cost?
The Sleep Number alternatives in this guide cost between $2,265–$4,599 for a queen-size mattress. In addition to size, mattress pricing can be affected by the brand, features, materials, construction, delivery, and other factors. Sleep Number sells mattresses at prices between $1,000 and $10,000. Smart bed technology and adjustability tend to increase a mattress's cost.
Don’t forget to factor in shipping costs and any extras when shopping for a Sleep Number alternative. Shipping is usually free in the contiguous United States, but white glove delivery, a fancy name that means the brand sets up your new mattress and possibly even removes your old one, often costs extra.
| Comparison Features | Helix Midnight Luxe |
Saatva Solaire |
WinkBeds Luxury Firm |
Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe |
Bear Elite Hybrid |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost for a queen | $2,373 |
$4,599 |
$2,570 |
$2,265 |
$2,712 |
| Shipping costs | Free |
Free |
Free |
Free |
Free |
| White glove delivery available? | No |
Yes, free |
No |
No |
Yes, for $175 |
| Warranty length | Limited lifetime |
Limited lifetime |
Limited lifetime |
Limited lifetime |
Limited lifetime |
| Return fees | None |
$99 |
None |
$99 |
None |
Frequently asked questions
What makes a good alternative to a Sleep Number bed?
A good Sleep Number alternative should offer different firmness options, strong support, and good pressure relief. It should also work well with an adjustable base.
Are adjustable air beds the only alternatives to Sleep Number?
No. Many hybrid and memory foam mattresses allow you to choose your preferred firmness level. Many mattresses also work with adjustable bases, which allow you to customize your comfort in a similar way to a Sleep Number bed.
How much can I expect to spend on a good Sleep Number alternative?
Most good Sleep Number alternatives cost between $1,000 and $2,500, depending on size and features. This is usually much less than a Sleep Number bed.
Which Sleep Number alternative is best for couples with different comfort needs?
A mattress with multiple firmness options or split-king adjustability is best for couples with different comfort preferences. Hybrid beds with strong motion isolation may also help couples sleep better.
Questions? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org.