Tuft & Needle vs. Casper: How Do Their Mattresses Compare?

Tuft & Needle and Casper are two of the most popular bed-in-a-box mattress brand names. So we get why you’re deciding between the two. Their flagship mattresses are some of our favourite overall foam models, boasting supreme comfort, pressure relief and motion isolation.

But which mattress is the winner? That’s a tough call. The Casper’s Zoned Support system offers amazing pressure relief and is a good match for all sleeper types. Yet the Tuft & Needle proprietary, open-cell adaptive foam is breathable and responsive, all at an affordable price.

Both options have their pros and cons. That’s why the best mattress will be the one that meets your needs and preferences most.

This review is an in-depth comparison of the Tuft & Needle and Nectar mattresses. We put their flagship models side-by-side to evaluate how they stack up in a number of key factors, such as pressure relief, construction and temperature neutrality.

A bit about Tuft & Needle

Tuft & Needle was founded in 2012 by two software engineers who were fed up with the mattress industry. Their goal was to sell an online mattress with no markups, gimmicks or middlemen. All these years later, they’ve evolved into one of the most popular bed-in-a-box mattress companies. While they sell three models in total, they’re most popular T&N Original mattress (flagship model) is known for being simple and streamlined, consisting of only 2-layers.

A bit about Casper

Casper was founded in 2014 by people that wanted to see the mattress industry be more user-friendly and catered to customers. Once they launched their original Casper Mattress into the world, it set a high standard for competing brands. It’s specifically known for the Zoned Support System—a layer consisting of three ergonomic zones of support that target and support your spine more than an average memory foam mattress.

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 T&N Original 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 standard of qualities that we get into below.

While we’re comparing two all-foam mattresses, their construction and feel are completely different. Even though they share a nearly identical support layer consisting of high-density polyfoam, the rest of the mattresses are the furthest from identical. They use foam materials to achieve uniquely different sleep experiences.

The most considerable difference between the two is in the number of layers and material used in the comfort layer. The T&N Original Mattress is a simple streamlined 2-layer mattress, while Casper is a three-layer comfort system.

The T&N Original Mattress is made with 3 inches of their proprietary, breathable T&N adaptive foam. And Casper is built with an open cell polyfoam layer followed by a layer of zoned memory foam. The former has a more moderate, balanced feel while the latter has more of a pressure-relieving, body contouring feel. However, their foams are both soft and easy to move around on.

We’re also happy to share that both brands use CertiPUR-US certified materials.

Materials and Construction rating:
★ 5/5 stars

Mattress height:
10 inches

Details:

• Cover: ultra-soft cover that is made from a breathable polyester blend to promote circulation throughout the mattress.
• Comfort Layer: 3 inches of their proprietary T&N Adaptive Foam designed to provide pressure relief and a flexible sleep surface movements throughout the night.
• Support layer: 7 inches of high-density polyfoam to give the mattress support and structure

Materials and Construction rating:
★ 5/5 stars

Mattress height:
11 inches

Details:

• Cover: a knit stretch material made from recycled polyester, polyester, upcycled cotton, rayon and lycra
• Comfort layers: one 1.5” open-cell polyfoam layer followed by a 2” zoned memory foam layer.
• Support layer: 7” of polyfoam to provide shape and stability

Durability is heavily influenced by the materials and build of a mattress. It’s mostly determined by how long the product maintains its structural integrity and comfort before it begins to deteriorate. The average mattress lasts six to eight years. So if you want a mattress by your side longer, you’re going to have to look for ones that are made with quality components.

Overall, the T&N Original and Casper Original Mattress are pretty comparable when it comes to their durability. Their structures are very supportive and because they boast thick high-density foam base layers that make them less susceptible to impressions over time. Thicker support cores provide better reinforcement against long term deterioration.

That being said, neither mattress will last as long as one made with latex or thick coils. But based on customer reviews, you can expect to have these mattresses in good shape for at least six to eight years.

Durability rating:
★ 3/5 stars

Details:
This mattress is medium-firm and made with a large, high-density support core of polyfoam, though it’s made with a very simple design of two layers and the comfort layer has a lower density.

Durability rating:
★ 3/5 stars

Details:
While the Casper mattress is made with a strong support system, most all-foam beds show body impressions over time. The thick and dense support layer is key to promoting durability and a long lifespan.

For people who sleep hot, temperature neutrality is a very important quality. 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.

Neither of these mattresses stand out when it comes to temperature neutrality because of their foam constructions. Nevertheless, both companies have utilized breathable, cooling materials in their construction. For being all-foam models, they do a pretty good job at promoting airflow.

The T&N Original Mattress uses open cell foam in both layers, in addition to adding graphite and cooling gel to the T&N adaptive foam in order to wick away body heat. The Casper mattress traps less body heat compared to other memory foam mattresses because it’s constructed with Airscape technology to promote more airflow on top of the mattress.

Temperature control rating:
★ 3/5 stars

Details:
The soft knit cover has a soft and breathable feel. The adaptive comfort layer absorbs less body heat because it’s low-density and infused with cooling gel and graphite that helps to further promote airflow in the mattress.

Temperature control rating:
★ 3/5 stars

Details:
This model sleeps cooler than other all-foam models thanks to its top comfort polyfoam layer that contains Airscape technology. The second layer of the comfort system is also more breathable than other high-density foams.

This refers to how well a mattress responds to different parts of your body, adjusts to your movements and bounces back to its original shape. The level of a mattress’s responsiveness determines how easily you can move across a mattress. But it’s also important for those who have mobility issues or change sleep positions frequently during the night.

Tuft and Needle’s mattress is slightly more responsive than Casper’s. Though, we think that they’re pretty similar in this quality. The T&N Original mattress has a uniform firmness and responsiveness. And the Casper Original’s zoned comfort layer gives it slightly slower response to pressure while the top polyfoam layer gives the surface more bounce than the average all-foam model.

Responsiveness rating:
★ 4/5 stars

Details:
You won’t feel stuck in this mattress, due to the open cell structure in the T&N adaptive foam that provides flexible support and responsiveness.

Responsiveness rating:
★ 4/5 stars

Details:
The two top layers made from polyfoam and zoned memory foam spring back quickly than other memory foam mattresses. It contours to the body but makes it easy for you to freely move without feeling trapped.

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.

The Casper Original performs better because some sleepers have reported more sinkage around the perimeter with Tuft & Needle. Casper’s thicker than average support core reinforces the edges and makes you feel more secure while sitting down or lying near the edge.

Edge Support rating:
★ 2/5 stars

Details:
While there is high density polyfoam in the support core, people who sit often near the edge of the mattress, may find it sinks with pressure over time because of the simple, 2-layer construction and lower density foam in the comfort layer.

Edge Support rating:
★ 3/5 stars

Details:
Like most all-foam mattresses, the Casper mattress edges do sink a bit. But the thick support core in its composition gives the edges a sturdier feel compared to most. But heavier sleepers will likely experience more sinkage. The hybrid model can help combat this.

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”. Once synthetic foams are compressed, they don’t always get the chance to escape the mattress right away.

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.

You can expect some initial mild off-gassing with either mattress because they’re both compressed and delivered in a cardboard box. Rest assured though, long-term off-gassing shouldn’t be an issue and will dissipate after the first couple of days, especially if you leave them in a well-ventilated room.

Off-gassing rating:
★ 3/5 stars

Details:
Some initial off-gassing might occur after unboxing this mattress but it should evaporate within a couple of days.

Off-gassing rating:
★ 3/5 stars

Details:
The Casper mattress has a more moderate initial off-gas after unboxing that can last anywhere from a few hours to a few days. But it should not be a persistent issue, especially if you leave your mattress in a well-ventilated room.

Supportive pressure relief is what most people look for in a mattress. It’s primarily responsible for restorative sleep because it influences 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 particularly important for those who struggle with chronic aches and pain.

Once again, both these mattresses come up on equal footing in regards to pressure relieving capabilities. They’re both made with materials that are designed to contour and alleviate pressure points. However, Casper tends to hit the sweet spot of pressure relief and support for all sleep positions, whereas T&N may be better at alleviating pressure for back and stomach sleepers.

Pressure Relief rating:
★ 4/5 stars

Details:
The T&N alleviates pressure well for sleepers in between 130-230 pounds. The adaptive foam comfort layer is particularly good at spreading pressure build-up, but it won’t be as contouring as memory foam.

Pressure Relief rating:
★ 4/5 stars

Details:
This mattress has a tri-zoned memory foam layer that does a good job at conforming close to the sleeper’s body and redistributing body weight evenly.
For heavier sleepers over 230 pounds or stomach sleepers, it may be too soft.

Motion isolation refers to how well a mattress absorbs motion across the surface. So it’s an important consideration 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 good motion isolation helps to reduce those interferences.

Between the two, Casper will be slightly better at transferring motion compared to T&N. Because it’s made with memory foam in the second layer, it absorbs motion to a significant extent. Either would be a good option for couples, but if you’re on different sleep-wake cycles, Casper may be better for minimizing any disruptions!

Motion Isolation rating:
★ 4/5 stars

Details:
Even though it’s not made with memory foam, sleepers will notice very little motion transfer on the T&N Original surface, thanks to the flexible, contouring adaptive foam.

Motion Isolation rating:
★ 4/5 stars

Details:
Casper does a pretty good job at isolation motion.
The two-layer comfort system absorbs movement instead of transferring it across the surface. The polyfoam top layer has a slightly bouncy feel but still reduces motion transfer because of the layer of memory foam underneath.

Let’s not ignore the obvious—mattresses are used for more than just sleeping. Looking at what makes a mattress better for sex, generally the most important traits are: bounce, responsiveness and edge support.

Because both mattresses are pretty responsive for being all-foam styles, either would make a good surface for bedroom activities. They’re not as bouncy as a hybrid or innerspring model, but they’re easy to move around on. If you want something bouncier, you can opt for their hybrid counterparts.

Sex performance rating:
★ 3/5 stars

Details:
While the T&N lacks good edge support, it provides flexible responsiveness that gives more of an “on top” feeling that couples may be looking for to engage in bedroom activities. It’s also a very quiet mattress.

Sex performance rating:
★ 3/5 stars

Details:
While the Casper mattress is responsive and comfortable, it’s not particularly bouncy, though the top polyfoam layer will give it a slightly bouncier feel. It’s also noise-free if you want to be discreet.

Side sleepers who weigh between 130-230 pounds will experience the best balance of pressure relief and support on the T&N Original. But due to its medium-firm feel, it might be too firm for lightweight sleepers. Keep in mind that the 3-inch adaptive foam comfort layer provides good contouring but not as deep of a cradling hug that most side sleepers crave.

Casper’s conforming and pressure relief properties help to contour a side sleeper’s body. The tri-zoned memory foam layer helps maintain spinal alignment by alleviating pressure build-up around the shoulders and hips. There is softer foam around the shoulders and firmer foam under the hips and waist

Back sleepers will find the T&N Original mattress to be quite comfortable and supportive. It’s balanced, medium firm feeling will keep your spine aligned while cushioning around your midsection. However, back sleepers over 230 pounds may experience some sinkage near their hips.

Casper’s firmness is on the softer side, but back sleepers under 230 lbs who want a softer, cushion feel will appreciate this mattress. The memory foam layer is zoned, therefore it prevents sinkage in the midsection and provides good support to the lumbar region. Though, heavier sleepers might sink in too deeply around the hip area.

The T&N Original won’t be supportive or firm enough for the majority of stomach sleepers. While the firmer adaptive foam comfort layer may be enough for lightweight sleepers, most individuals will feel their hips slightly sink into the mattress, putting strain on the spine.

When it comes to stomach sleeping, you’re usually putting a lot more pressure on the midsection. If your hips sink too far into the mattress, you’re at risk of pushing your spine out of alignment. Casper’s zoned layer will provide support around the midsection but it might not be enough for heavier sleepers.

The T&N Original Mattress has a balanced, medium-firm feeling. It’s going to feel like you’re “on” the mattress more than “in” it. That being said, it’s also soft and provides moderate cushioning for your body without sinking in too deeply. The adaptive foam comfort layer gives a unique balance of responsiveness and pressure-relief, but it won’t be as deep as memory foam. It’s a perfect feel for light and medium weight side or back sleepers.

The Casper mattress has a medium, close body conforming feel with a fair amount of bounce. The benefit of a top polyfoam layer is its softness and responsiveness. Because of its thick foam comfort layers, it feels soothing for sleepers who experience frequent aches and pains. But people who weigh more than 230 pounds might find that this mattress feels too soft. For this reason, the hybrid model may be a more supportive choice.

Where can I buy the T&N Original mattress?
You can buy the T&N Original Mattress on the Tuft & Needle website and Amazon. They also own and operate eight stories across the country in these locations: Gilbert, AZ; Scottsdale, AZ; Glendale, CA; Leawood, KS; Raleigh, NC; Beaverton, OR; Dallas, TX; and Seattle, WA. Tuft & Needle has also partnered with a few third-party vendors, including Crate & Barrel, Lowe’s, and Unruh.

Where do they ship?
Tuft & Needle ships free to the 48 contiguous United States and for an added fee to Alaska and Hawaii.

How long is the trial period?
All Tuft & Needle mattresses come with a 100-night sleep trial period. You can exchange or return your mattress for a full refund at any time during this period.

What is Tuft & Needle’s warranty policy?
Tuft & Needle offers a 10-year limited warranty that covers manufacturing and workmanship defects in the mattress. It includes things like sagging, or body impressions that are greater than 3/4 of an inch. It’s also going to cover any material breakdown of the foam that causes it to split, crack, or deteriorate in any other way.

Where can I buy the Casper mattress?
The Casper mattress is available on their website, Amazon, Target, and brick-and-mortar Casper sleep shop locations around the U.S.

Where do they ship?
They sell their mattresses to Canada and all 50 states. Free standard shipping is offered to all customers in the 48 contiguous U.S. and most of Canada. They charge for shipping to Alaska, Hawaii and Northern Canada (Yukon, Northwest and Nunavut Territories).

How long is the trial period?
Caspers offers customers a 100-day trial period. This trial does not require a break-in period. Any eligible mattresses can be returned for full price, including shipping fees, by contacting Casper’s customer support team within this time. They will arrange for someone to pick up the mattress and it will either be recycled or donated to charity.

What is Casper’s warranty policy?
Casper’s mattresses come with a 10-year limited warranty. This warranty protects you from defects that include indentations deepers than 1 inch, physical flaws that cause the mattress material to split and cover zipper defects.

Standout features:

Standout features:

Either of these mattresses would be of good value, it just depends on what you need for your sleep.

We really like the Casper Original mattress for superior balanced form and comfortable feeling. Sleepers who want to feel supported and hugged by their mattress will enjoy this model. If you’re trying to prevent or avoid back and shoulder pain, Casper does an excellent job at providing pressure relief. And hot sleepers will appreciate the breathability compared to other foam mattresses. It’s also a good option for couples interested in minimizing motion disruption across the mattress surface.

The T&N Original Mattress is made with a more responsive layer of proprietary foam on top of high density polyfoam. Compared to Casper, this might be a better value mattress for lightweight, back or stomach who want a firm and supportive surface. Though like Casper, it would also be suitable for combination sleepers that want to move around easily. It’s also worth mentioning that this is significantly cheaper than Casper so it would be a valuable purchase for anyone on a budget.

Neither mattress is better than the other one, they might just be better depending on what you need. And if you don’t like it? Then you can sleep soundly knowing that both brands have generous return policies.

The T&N Original and Casper mattresses are pathways to better sleep. They are both great value and boast tons of long-lasting benefits. 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 the T&N Original Mattress and Casper Original 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.

Standout features: