Puffy vs Purple: How Do Their Mattresses Compare?

So you’ve come across the Puffy and Purple brands during your mattress browsing. Lucky for you, these are both popular companies that produce sought after, pressure-relieving foam mattresses. Unlucky for you, it’s really hard to decide between the two. But that’s what we’re here for!

Puffy and Purple may start with the same letter, but they just happen to be each other’s top competitor. And while you can’t go wrong with either, their mattresses will work better for different types of sleepers. Puffy has three layers of foam and has a soft, pressure-relieving feeling. While Purple is a more responsive, temperature regulating mattress.

But let’s dig deeper into why these mattresses are so unique and popular.

A bit about Puffy

Puffy was founded in 2017 with the central idea that sleeping on one of their mattresses would feel like sleeping on a cloud. The Puffy Mattress is their flagship bed-in-a-box, all-foam model that features three layers of quality, proprietary materials that are designed for comfort, cooling and pressure relief. Then they also sell the Puffy Lux, which is a more advanced four-layer foam mattress made with a plush thickness.

A bit about Purple

Purple, Inc was founded through a Kickstarter campaign in 2015 with their official product becoming available in January 2016. They offer three mattress models, but are most known for The Purple Mattress, which is built with the company’s proprietary ‘Purple Grid’ in the comfort layers. This hyper-elastic, innovative grid has amazing pressure-relieving properties and is unbelievably breathable. 

But how do you decide between two mattresses that promise a wide ranging list of benefits? 

Here’s a detailed comparison guide for Puffy and Purple mattresses, including their sizing, construction, customer ratings, and performance in key areas. Both brands offer multiple mattress models but we’re going to specifically draw attention to their flagship foam models for an in-depth comparison.

Right out of the gate, we want to give you the information you need if you’re ready to make a decision.

See how the Puffy Mattress and The Purple Mattress compare to other mattresses in our Best Memory Foam Mattress page.

We take a closer look at each performance rating below. These ratings are based on thorough research and reviews from mattress owners and trustworthy external sources.

The material quality and mattress construction is an important element to look at closely because it determines the value of all other characteristics that we get into below.

These mattresses boast really unique designs, however they share a similar base support layer made from high-density polyfoam. The most considerable difference between the two is in the comfort layers.

Puffy’s first layer is their proprietary cooling foam, which has a slow-moving feel and is manufactured using a Variable Pressure Foaming (VPF) process which is much cleaner for the environment. Then a firmer, Puffy Climate Comfort Foam is placed underneath for further pressure relief and breathability.

Purple’s main comfort layer is made with the company’s patented technology—a hyper-elastic polymer material that is engineered with a grid-like construction to be responsive and cooling.

All-in-all, the materials and construction in either mattress is high-quality and developed from thorough research and development. Even better, both brands use CertiPUR-US certified materials, which means they are intentional with providing customers a high-quality mattress and sleep experience.

Materials and Construction rating:
★ 5/5 stars

Mattress height:
10 inches

Details:

• Cover: Made from 100% polyester that is thin, breathable, soft, hypoallergenic and stain-resistant.
• Comfort layers: 2” of gel-infused cooling cloud memory foam
• Transition layer: 2” of transition climate comfort polyfoam
• Support layer: 6” of high-density polyfoam for overall support

Materials and Construction rating:
★ 5/5 stars

Mattress height:
9.5 inches

Details:

• Cover: a knit blend of 67% polyester, 29% viscose and 4% lycra
• Comfort layer: 2” Purple hyper-elastic polymer, buckling gel grid
• Transitional layer: 3.5” 1.8 PCF high-density polyfoam
• Support layer: 4” of 2 PCF high-density polyfoam to stabilize and maintain an even surface

Durability organically follows materials and construction because it’s heavily influenced by them. This factor is determined by how long the product maintains its structure integrity and comfort before it begins to deteriorate. Given that the average mattress lifespan is 8 years, this is a significant element because it could signal how much longer you can have your mattress in a good condition.

Between the Puffy and Purple mattress, we would say that the Purple Mattress comes out on top in regards to better durability. We’re not saying that the Puffy isn’t durable, but it’s softer foam materials are not as durable as latex or coils. But the Purple’s gel polymer grid is a very durable material. That, and Purple has been around longer than Puffy, so we know that people’s mattresses have withstood the test of time.

Durability rating:
★ 3/5 stars

Details:
Because Puffy has only been around since 2017, it’s premature to discern how long this mattress can last on average. Though, the proprietary foam is high quality, and the base layer is made with high-density polyfoam. The company also provides a lifetime warranty.

Durability rating:
★ 4/5 stars

Details:
The Purple grid comfort layer is made from highly durable hyper-elastic gel material. The thick transitional layer after acts as a great buffer between the grid and denser support core which helps to prevent sinking and sagging.

This trait is especially pertinent for hot sleepers and those who live in warmer climates. A mattress’s cooling and temperature control all contribute to a mattress’s overall breathability. It refers to how much body heat a mattress retains, and this could be influenced by the materials and layer thickness.

Both mattresses are made with cooling, temperature regulating materials, which is impressive considering they are foam mattresses. However, Purple is a cut about Puffy in temperature neutrality because of its grid technology which allows air to flow more freely throughout the mattress.

Temperature control rating:
★ 3/5 stars

Details:
This model sleeps cooler than other all-foam models but it still might trap heat if you sleep warm because of its close conforming. Though the mattress is made with a thin cover and memory foam made with cooling gel infusion to help offset this.

Temperature control rating:
★ 5/5 stars

Details:
The Purple Grid’s open construction allows more air to flow through the bed. That way heat can move away from the body instead of being absorbed by the mattress. Most sleepers will sleep very cool with the Purple Mattress in contrast to other all-foam beds.

This trait refers to how well a mattress can tailor its support to different parts of your body, adjust to your movements and bounce back to its original form. The level of a mattress’s responsiveness determines how easily you can move across a mattress. This is especially important for those who have mobility issues or change sleep positions frequently during the night.

This is an easy decision—the Purple Mattress is a clear winner when it comes to responsiveness because the Purple Grid technology flexes under pressure and reforms as you move or switch positions. On the other hand, Puffy is made with slow-moving memory foam that is ultra soft and conforming.

So while you feel “on top” of the Purple mattress, you feel “in” the Puffy. The former is a lot easier to move around on.

Responsiveness rating:
★ 2/5 stars

Details:
Even without being super springy or bouncy, the mattress still responds well to your body position and movement. But the lower density, softer foam gives that sleeping on a cloud feeling. There just might be a slight delay in responsiveness.

Responsiveness rating:
★ 4/5 stars

Details:
The Purple has a slightly springier feel due to the hyper-elastic polymer grid. It feels like you’re sleeping more on top of it instead of in it. This provides both a conforming and responsive feeling.

Edge support references how sturdy and strong the perimeters of a mattress are. If the edges aren’t strong, you might feel like you’re rolling off the edge if you get too close.

Good edge support is the degree to which a mattress supports body weight around the perimeter. If you have trouble getting out of bed or sleep with a partner, it’s important to have use of the entire mattress surface.

Both the Puffy and Purple have decent edge support. You might notice some sinkage on the perimeter of either mattress, but not to the extent that you’ll feel like rolling off the bed. The edges may just sink a bit when you get on and off the mattress, but soft edges are common in foam mattresses.

If you do want something with good edge support, innerspring and hybrid mattresses are known for denser coil systems that reinforce the edges and provide sturdier support.

Edge Support rating:
★ 3/5 stars

Details:
Puffy has pretty adequate edge support for an all-foam model, though it might not be enough for heavier sleepers. There should be enough reinforcement for most sleepers and any sinkage that is felt won’t be significant.

Edge Support rating:
★ 3/5 stars

Details:
The Purple mattress has an average edge support. Even though the hyper-elastic polyfoam grid layer is supportive in many aspects, it can be weaker at the edges. Over time, if the transition and support layer deteriorate, this could also weaken the edge support.

Most new mattresses will emit a slight odor once they are removed from their packaging. This is also known as off-gassing, which derives from volatile organic compounds (VOCs); otherwise known as a “new mattress smell”.

While off-gassing odors are non-toxic, they can still be unpleasant and problematic for sleepers who are sensitive to smells or have chemical allergies. Mattresses that contain solid memory foam and polyfoam materials are most likely to off-gas.

You can expect some initial mild off-gassing with both the Puffy and Purple mattress. But there will probably be less with the Purple Mattress because of its open-grid design. But we project that long-term off-gassing should not be an issue for most sleepers who use either mattress. Just make sure you leave your mattress in a well-ventilated room after you un-box it.

Off-gassing rating:
★ 3/5 stars

Details:
The Puffy mattress has a more moderate initial off-gas after unboxing that might last a day or so.

Off-gassing rating:
★ 4/5 stars

Details:
While there is an initial, mild off-gas after unboxing the Purple mattress, it tends to dissipate quickly.

Pressure relief is something we all want in a mattress because it’s usually the determining factor for a restful night’s sleep. Pressure relief basically means how well a mattress contours to your body, promotes better spinal alignment and relieves tension at pressure points like the hips, lower back and shoulders. A mattress that offers good pressure relief is important to sleep comfortably, especially for those who struggle with pain.

We would say that both these mattresses offer amazing pressure relief, but the Puffy Mattress really takes it a step above. So if you’re looking for a mattress that conforms to your curves and supports you, Puffy may be the ideal choice for you—especially side sleepers.

Pressure Relief rating:
★ 5/5 stars

Details:
Puffy has exceptional pressure relief thanks to the memory foam comfort layers that offer deep, body hugging support. The firm core support layer is also designed to keep your spine aligned.

Pressure Relief rating:
★ 4/5 stars

Details:
This mattress has good pressure relief and body contouring properties due to its transitional polyfoam layer. However, some side sleepers may find this mattress to be too firm. But overall it provides good pressure relief for combination sleepers.

Motion isolation refers to how well a mattress absorbs motion across the surface; therefore, it’s an important mattress trait if you sleep with a partner, child or even a pet. If one person is a light sleeper or has a different schedule or sleep-wake cycle, then superb motion isolation helps to reduce those interferences.

Both these mattresses are good at isolating motion, but the Puffy performs slightly better because of its all-foam construction.

Motion Isolation rating:
★ 5/5 stars

Details:
The Puffy’s memory foam comfort layers excel at isolating motion. If someone moves on one side, it doesn’t cause motion transfer to the other, making this great for couples!

Motion Isolation rating:
★ 4/5 stars

Details:
The Purple Mattress does an exceptional job at isolating motion thanks to its memory foam comfort layers and hyper-elastic gel grid that allows sleepers to put weight on the mattress without transferring to other parts.

Let’s get real—we use our mattresses for more than just sleeping. While each person or couple may be looking for something different, generally the most important traits that go into establishing whether a mattress has a good rating for sex are: bounce, responsiveness and edge support.

This is an area that the Purple Mattress excels in due to its responsive comfort layer—which is both bouncier and springier than the Puffy Mattress, making it a better surface for sex. In contrast, because of the Puffy’s slower moving feel, changing positions for bedroom activities might be a challenge.

Sex performance rating:
★ 2/5 stars

Details:
There’s more of a cradling feeling with Puffy and it offers little bounce, but it is noise-free and discreet!

Sex performance rating:
★ 4/5 stars

Details:
The grid comfort layer is responsive and offers noticeable bounce, making this a great mattress for sex. It’s also virtually silent when you move on it.

Of all the sleeping positions, Puffy is most geared towards side sleepers. The Cooling Cloud and Firm Core Support offers incredible pressure relief to alleviate build-up around your main pressure points on your side (hips and shoulders). It cradles the body while ensuring that your spine remains in optimal alignment.

The Purple mattress is able to support side sleepers a good mix of contouring and pressure relief thanks to its transitional layer. However, heavier individuals may drop a bit more into the mattress and need something firmer.

Puffy will work well for lightweight back sleepers, but it’s not supportive enough for average or heavyweight sleepers. Because it’s a medium-firm mattress that has a soft, plush feeling, most back sleepers will not get enough lumbar support.

Because the Purple mattress gives a plush feel while providing good lumbar support, those who are lighter and sleep on their backs will find this gives them adequate support. But heavier back sleepers might want a firmer mattress.

Right out of the gate—Puffy is just not the mattress for stomach sleepers. If you’re a stomach sleeper, it’s important to have a firmer, responsive surface that keeps your midsection supported. The deep cradling effect of the Puffy will just put uncomfortable strain on your body.

The Purple mattress is a better fit for lighter stomach sleepers as it’s firm enough to hold up the midsection—providing your body the support it needs. But it will likely put strain on anybody else’s neck, shoulders and lower back.

The Puffy mattress has a medium, soft, plush feeling. Like the company’s promise, it really does feel like sleeping on a cloud. That means that people who suffer from joint or pressure pain will find great relief from this mattress. It feels like you’re being hugged and supported in all the places that matter. For side sleepers, this is the mattress of your dreams.

The Purple mattress has a medium-firm feel. Rather than a deep-cradling sensation, it’s comparable to a floating feeling. Sleepers might enjoy it’s unique squishy and gel-like feel that provides comfort and support in multiple positions. It’s important to note that the Purple Mattress conforms to a moderate extent so it won’t feel as contouring as the Puffy mattress. People who weigh at least 130 pounds will feel comfortable. And for lightweight side sleepers, this may feel too firm.

Where can I buy the Puffy mattress?
Puffy mattresses are available exclusively online, through the Puffy website.

Where do they ship?
Puffy ships their mattresses free to Canada and the contiguous U.S.

How long is the trial period?
Puffy offers a 101-night sleep trial which requires a minimum 14-day break-in period. After that, if you’re not satisfied with the mattress, you can return it and receive a full refund.

What is Puffy’s warranty policy? 
Puffy mattresses come with a lifetime warranty against manufacturing and workmanship defects.

Where can I buy the Purple mattress?
You can find the Purple mattress online on their site, on Amazon and at brick-and-mortar stores across the country, including Mattress Firm and Macy’s.

Where do they ship?
Purple mattresses are available to ship to Canada and all 50 states. Free standard shipping is offered to all customers in the 48 contiguous U.S. However, customers in Canada, Alaska, Hawaii must pay for shipping costs. Though, according to their website, they have built a flat rate for Canadians that includes taxes, higher international shipping costs and the conversion rate.

How long is the trial period?
Purple offers customers a 100-day trial period. Any eligible mattresses can be returned for full price by contacting Purple’s customer support team within this time.

What is Purple’s warranty policy?
Purple has a 10-year limited warranty that covers indentation greater than 1 inch, or premature cracking and splitting. The mattress cover is protected under a different warranty for two years after the original purchase.

Standout features:

Standout features:

Neither of these mattresses is better than the other. They are both high-quality mattresses that have their own benefits and drawbacks depending on the type of sleeper you are. And both brands have proven track records and positive customer reviews.

We really like the Puffy Mattress for its luxury, healthy foam materials and soft, comfortable feeling. Sleepers who want to feel supported and hugged by their mattress will enjoy this model. And if you’re trying to prevent or avoid back and shoulder pain, then Puffy will help to eliminate pressure points. It also breathes exceptionally well compared to other foam mattresses.

The Purple Mattress also offers sleepers great pressure relief by cradling pressure points and readjusting to your body as you move. This makes it a suitable option for most types of sleepers, especially combination sleepers. What sets Purple apart from the competition is their innovative, unique construction. Because of its proprietary grid technology, the Purple mattress is a more responsive and temperature neutral mattress. This makes it a better choice for hot sleepers and will just be more tailored to a wider range of individuals, regardless of weight or sleep position.

If you want a temperature neutral and comfortable sleeping experience – go with Purple. If you want the familiar, soft mattress – go with Puffy. You can’t really go wrong with either one and both come with a generous night sleep trial to see for yourself!

Our conclusion is that both the Puffy and Purple flagship mattress models would make excellent choices for anybody. They are both great value. Ultimately, it’s up to you to use all the information you have to make the best choice for your needs. But in summary:

Check out the latest price of Puffy and Purple mattresses now.

Disclaimer

Here at Best Mattress Finder, we do our best to provide accurate, honest product recommendations and brand reviews based on the best available information. However, stats and products are subject to change and may have updated since this page was posted.

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