Sleep Number Alternatives in 2024 (+ Why Purple Is the Best)

The Verdict: Purple is the number one Sleep Number alternative. The GelFlex® Grid outperforms Sleep Number’s adjustable air beds with instant pressure relief, full-body support, and cooling comfort. Paired with an adjustable base, Purple mattresses offer exceptional motion isolation, pressure relief, and cooling.

While Sleep Number air beds offer customization, the high price point, additional fees, and unique feel may be less appealing, leading customers to seek out alternatives.

The most popular Sleep Number alternatives, best paired with an adjustable bed frame, include: 

1. Purple (mattresses + adjustable bases)
2. Saatva 
3. Brooklyn Bedding
4. Tempur-Pedic
5. Beautyrest
6. Tuft & Needle
7. Nectar Sleep 
8. Nolah
9. Bear
10. Helix

In this blog, we take an in-depth look at the top Sleep Number bed alternatives from Purple. We’ll also discuss how the unique features and benefits of Purple’s mattresses make them the best mattress choice for sleepers looking for a Sleep Number alternative. 

Why? Because Purple mattresses utilize a proprietary sleep innovation that offers a made-for-you blend of softness and support without the need for a remote, a nearby power source, or two separate beds between sleep partners. 

Methodology: We carefully compared the benefits and features of Sleep Number alternatives with Purple to determine the best options. Key considerations included features like cooling, pressure point relief, support, comfort, and materials.

Innovative Sleep Technology

Our GelFlex® Grid is a superior alternative to memory foam that provides conforming pressure relief without a delayed response.

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The Best Sleep Number Bed Alternatives

We’ve highlighted the top seven Sleep Number alternatives from Purple, selecting options that offer comparable or enhanced features. Pair your Purple mattress with an adjustable base for more customization to enhance your comfort.

1. Purple RestorePremier™ Hybrid Mattress 

Alternative for: Sleep Number Climate360® Smart Bed or i10 Smart Bed

Purple’s RestorePremier™ Hybrid mattress, also known as Purple’s best cooling mattress, outshines the Sleep Number Climate360® Smart Bed and i10 Smart Bed . A combination of CoolFlex™ Coils and 3” of innovative GelFlex® Grid deliver comfort where you want it and support where you need it — all without the need for a remote.

Unlike Sleep Number mattresses, you don’t have to adjust the RestorePremier™ — this hybrid mattress contains GelFlex® Grid that instantly responds to weight to properly conform around concentrated pressure (like hips and shoulder) and maintain its structure beneath broad surfaces (like legs and back). The result? A made-for-you experience that promotes alignment while also keeping you cool throughout the night. 

• Feel: Two feel options
• Key Features: 4x* cooler than competitors with temperature balancing, pin-point dynamic support, and pressure point relief
• Materials: 3” GelFlex® Grid, Coolflex™ Coils, Advanced Edge Support System, Ultra Comfort Foam, moisture-wicking antimicrobial cover
• Sizes: Twin XL, queen, king, California king, split king
• Price: $$-$$$

*Disclaimer: Thermal test and heat flux study conducted by Purple on Purple hybrid mattresses in 2023.

With thousands of five-star reviews, the RestorePremier™ Hybrid’s superior comfort features have earned praise and recognition, as well as the following awards:

• Men’s Health: Best Cooling Mattress Overall¹
• Good Housekeeping: Best Overall Cooling Mattress²
• PopSugar: Best Mattress for Side Sleepers³

“The best mattress I have ever purchased; I used to have a Sleep Number [but] this is so much better. Keeps you cool and comfortable, no problems with numb arms from side sleeping. Love it. I would buy again and recommend to everyone needing a new mattress.” — Tami N., Purple RestorePremier™ review

2. Purple RejuvenatePlus™ Mattress

Alternative for: Sleep Number 360® iLE 

If you prefer beds that are more plush than firm, the Purple RejuvenatePlus™ mattress is a superior alternative to the Sleep Number 360® iLE, offering breathable comfort and full-body support with luxurious features like our GelFlex® Grid Plus and a Quilted Euro Top.

The Purple RejuvenatePlus™ provides enhanced features when compared against the Sleep Number 360® iLE, making it a worthwhile alternative.

• Feel: Soft
• Key Features: Dreamy softness, minimal motion transfer with advanced conforming layers and zoned body support 
• Materials: Quilted Euro Top, Active Responsive Comfort Foam, 2.5” High-Density GelFlex® Grid Plus, Ultra Comfort Foam, 8” 3-Zone Coil Core 
• Sizes: Twin XL, queen, king, California king, split king
• Price: $$$-$$$$

The Purple RejuvenatePlus™ mattress provides luxurious comfort, especially for back and side sleepers, earning it the following accolades:

• The Spruce: Best Splurge Mattress⁴
• People: Best Soft Mattress⁵

“Absolutely the best mattress I've ever slept on. Very comfortable. No matter what position you sleep in, I absolutely recommend it to everybody I talk to.” — Robin D., Purple RejuvenatePlus™ review

3. Purple RestorePlus™ Hybrid Mattress

Alternative for: Sleep Number i8 Smart Bed or m7 Smart Bed

As our best mattress for back pain, the Purple RestorePlus^TM Hybrid mattress is a great alternative to the Sleep Number i8 Smart Bed or m7 Smart Bed, offering core body support, pressure point relief, and cooling comfort for every sleep style.

The Purple RestorePlus^TM provides structured support with dynamic coils and our adaptive GelFlex® Grid for a comfortable mattress that adapts to your body without the need for a remote. Where the Sleep Number m7 Smart Bed features heat-trapping memory foam, the Purple RestorePlus^TM uses Ultra Comfort Foam for a cooling, breathable feel.

• Feel: Two feel options
• Key Features: 3x* cooler, targeted support, and advanced pressure relief
• Materials: 3” GelFlex® Grid, zoned Edge-to-Edge Coil support system, Ultra Comfort Foam, moisture-wicking antimicrobial cover
• Sizes: Twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
• Price: $$-$$$

*Disclaimer: Thermal test and heat flux study conducted by Purple on Purple hybrid mattresses in 2023.

With a soft, supportive feel, the Purple RestorePlus^TM Hybrid mattress has been recognized as a top pick for cooling, luxurious mattresses:

• PopSugar: Best Luxury Mattress⁶
• Forbes: Best Cooling Mattress in a Box⁷

“Great mattress, keeps cool on those hot nights. Very soft and comfortable, reducing back pain as it conforms to your body. Pairs extremely well with the adjustable base. Highly recommended quality mattress, well worth the money.” — Brandon W., Purple RestorePlus™ review

4. Purple Restore™ Hybrid

Alternative for: Sleep Number p6 Smart Bed

The Purple Restore™ Hybrid mattress is a perfect alternative to the Sleep Number p6 Smart Bed with enhanced cooling technology and responsive support thanks to our GelFlex® Grid. Whether you sleep hot or need pain relief, the Purple Restore^TM automatically adapts to your needs — no remote required.

• Feel: Two feel options
• Key Features: 2x* cooler, excellent pressure relief, responsive support
• Materials: 2” GelFlex® Grid, Comfort Foam, Edge-to-Edge Coil support system, antimicrobial finish
• Sizes: Twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
• Price: $-$$

*Disclaimer: Thermal test and heat flux study conducted by Purple on Purple hybrid mattresses in 2023.

Our pioneer hybrid mattress is a great choice for hot sleepers, side sleepers, and anyone looking for a hybrid mattress — and we’re not the only ones who think that. The Restore^TM has earned several best mattress awards, including:

• CNET: Best Hybrid Mattress⁸
• Forbes: Best Pressure-Relieving Mattress for Side Sleepers⁹
• Forbes: Best Hybrid Mattress (without fiberglass)¹⁰
• People: Best Mattress for Side Sleepers¹¹
• The Spruce: Best Firm Mattress (in the firm feel option)¹²

“This is the best mattress I've ever owned. I'm coming from a Casper Nova Hybrid and this sleeps noticeably cooler and somehow feels both firmer and more pressure relieving than my old foam mattress. It's remarkable.” — Ted Z., Purple Restore™ review

5. Purple Plus® Mattress

Alternative for: Sleep Number p5 Smart Bed

The Purple Plus® Mattress offers the same cooling support as the Sleep Number p5 Smart Bed at a fraction of the cost. With our cushioning GelFlex® Grid, the Purple Plus® provides simultaneous pressure point relief and support.

The Purple Plus® has a medium firm feel with total support, making it a great option if you’re considering medium vs. firm mattresses or searching for a Sleep Number p5 Smart Bed alternative.

• Feel: Medium
• Key Features: Breathable design, double support, motion isolation
• Materials: 2” GelFlex® Grid, Ultra Comfort Foam, 2x Base Foam
• Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
• Price: $-$$

With comfort and support at a price you’ll love, the Purple Plus® mattress has earned recognition from the following publications:

• People: Best Medium Support Mattress¹³
• Esquire: Best Mattress for Side Sleepers¹⁴

“I have a friend who house-sitted for me a while back. She recently called me, saying ‘I finally have enough money for an adult mattress, I need to know what kind you have. I haven't stopped thinking about it for five years.’ As for myself, I've been happily sleeping on it for over ten years now and happily endorse Purple to basically anyone who will listen.” — Eric J., Purple Plus® reviews

6. The Purple Mattress®

Alternative for: Sleep Number p5 Smart Bed or c4 Smart Bed

With our proprietary GelFlex® Grid, the Purple Mattress® provides unparalleled pressure point relief and cooling comfort, rivaling the Sleep Number p5 Smart Bed and Sleep Number c4 Smart Bed at a much lower price point.

Breathable and instantly adaptive, the Purple Mattress® cradles your body and keeps you cool, making it a perfect alternative to pricier Sleep Number mattresses that only adjust with a remote.

• Feel: Medium-firm
• Key Features: Durable support, added pressure relief, temperature balancing
• Materials: 2” GelFlex® Grid, Comfort Foam, Durable Base Foam, Edge Support Foam, SoftFlex Cover
• Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
• Price: $-$$

The Purple Mattress® features innovative sleep technology designed for maximum comfort, earning it awards from the following publications:

• Good Housekeeping: Best Cooling Mattress¹⁵
• TechRadar: Best Cooling Mattress for Back Pain¹⁶
• CNET: Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with Shoulder and Hip Pain¹⁷
• Today: Best Innovative Mattress¹⁸

“Best sleep in my life. I bought the Purple mattress and Purple pillow and I kid you not, I wake up in the same position I fell asleep. I just melt into the mattress. 10/10 recommend!” — Tania M., Purple Mattress® review

7. PurpleFlex™ Mattress

Alternative for: Sleep Number c2 Smart Bed

With our adaptive GelFlex® Grid, the PurpleFlex™ mattress offers the same benefits of memory foam without the heat retention, keeping you cool and comfortable. Combining the GelFlex® Grid with Durable Base Foam creates a simple sleep solution that can relieve pressure, support your spine, and balance your temperature for a sleep experience unlike any other.

With revolutionary pressure point relief, this mattress instantly adapts to your body while providing the support you need to stay comfortable, making it a great alternative to the Sleep Number c2 Smart Bed.

• Feel: Medium-firm
• Key Features: Temperature balancing, soothing pressure relief, stable base support
• Materials: 2” GelFlex® Grid, Durable Base Foam
• Sizes: Twin, full, queen, king
• Price: $-$$

With our instantly adaptive GelFlex® Grid, the PurpleFlex™ mattress promotes cooling airflow and relieves pressure points at a price you’ll love, earning this award:

• Men’s Health: Best firm memory foam mattress¹⁹

“Best sleep in years! Woke up without shoulder pain for the first time in years. Also, my wife said my typical extreme loud snoring was down to just a light snore. So we both enjoyed a wonderful night's sleep! I definitely recommend this mattress.” — James P., PurpleFlex™ review

The Best Sleep Number Base Alternatives

For a fully custom sleep experience, pair your mattress with the best adjustable bed frame or base. Purple’s adjustable bases are compatible with most mattresses, allowing you to improve your sleep quality no matter what bed you choose.

1. Purple Premium Plus Smart Base

Alternative for: Sleep Number FlexFit™ 2 Smart Base

The Sleep Number FlexFit™ 2 Smart Base allows sleepers to lift their heads and feet for added relief and comfort, but the Purple Premium Plus Smart Base goes above and beyond with massage settings, lumbar support, and our Zero-Gravity® preset for optimal comfort.

Designed to support most mattresses and work with most bed frames, the Purple Premium Plus Smart Base can transform your sleep experience with customizable pressure relief and pillow tilt features. Recline, relax, and enjoy unparalleled sleep quality with Purple.

• Key Features: Lumbar support, pillow tilt, massage settings, options for wireless remote control or 4.8 star app control, under-bed lighting with motion detection, adjustable leg height
• Presets: One Touch Flat, Anti-Snore, Zero-Gravity®
• Sizes: Twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
• Price: $$-$$$

The Purple Premium Plus Smart Base’s high-tech features and enhanced comfort have earned it the following awards:

• Business Insider: Best Overall Adjustable Base 2024²⁰
• Mattress Clarity: Best Adjustable Bed for Snoring 2024²¹
• National Council on Aging: Best Customizable Features for Twin and Split King Adjustable Beds^{22, 23}

“Excellent product. The automatic light with movement is nice at night. The controls are easy and intuitive.” — Craig B., Purple Premium Plus Smart Base review

How to Set Up Your Purple Smart Base

2. Purple Premium Smart Base

Alternative for: Sleep Number FlexFit™ 1 Smart Base

While the Sleep Number FlexFit™ 1 Smart Base includes under-bed lighting and an anti-snore preset, this adjustable base is fairly limited compared to the Purple Premium Smart Base. The Sleep Number option only adjusts the head of the bed, not the foot, and controls are only accessible via an app, making it less convenient to use.

The Purple Premium Smart Base provides all the benefits of an adjustable bed base, including head and foot adjustment, anti-snore and Zero-Gravity® presets, adjustable leg height, and app or remote control options. The Purple Premium Smart Base’s versatility, customization, and lower price point make it a superior Sleep Number base alternative.

• Key Features: Head and foot elevation, wireless remote and app control options, adjustable height legs
• Presets: One Touch Flat, Anti-Snore, Lounge, Zero-Gravity®
• Sizes: Twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
• Price: $-$$

“After having surgery on my leg, I needed a way to sit up and be productive and this base is perfect. The shipping was SO fast — it arrived 2 days after I ordered it! My friends came and set it up and it was very quick and simple. [...] I would highly recommend this frame.” — Eric S., Purple Premium Smart Base review

6 Reasons To Pick Purple Over Sleep Number

Purple mattresses provide superior comfort, pressure relief, and temperature balancing for a better night’s sleep — without the need for complicated technology. Enhance your sleep quality with an innovative Purple mattress as your top Sleep Number alternative.

1. Unique Sleep Technology

The GelFlex® Grid is unlike any other sleep technology, providing soft comfort where you want it and just-right support where you need it. Additionally, a repeating geometric design creates over 1,400 channels that promote airflow for cooler, deeper sleep.

While Sleep Number beds feature digital technology for on-demand customization, the GelFlex® Grid instantly adapts to your body without the use of extra tech or manual adjustment. This ensures you get the pressure point relief and comfort you need to sleep soundly.

The GelFlex® Grid does the work for you, adjusting as you move and immediately bouncing back into shape so you enjoy superior comfort as soon as you lie down and uninterrupted sleep as you adjust throughout the night.

2. Ultimate Cooling Benefits

Purple mattresses are up to four times more effective at removing excess heat than major competitors. You’ll sleep cooler with more than 1,400 open-ended channels in Purple’s GelFlex® Grid. Our temperature-balancing technology helps you stay cool and comfortable for uninterrupted sleep every night.

3. Superior Pressure Relief

With the GelFlex® Grid, Purple mattresses instantly adapt to your body and evenly disperse your weight, cradling your pressure points for ultimate pain relief. Our innovative sleep technology promotes proper spinal alignment and soothes aching joints, making it a great mattress for body pain.

4. Effective Motion Isolation 

Motion isolation is key for uninterrupted sleep. With the GelFlex® Grid, Purple mattresses minimize motion transfer, so you'll rest easily with minimal disruptions, even if your partner tosses and turns.

Couples may consider Sleep Number mattresses if they have different sleep preferences because they can independently adjust their sides of the bed, but like air mattresses, air beds may allow too much motion transfer, resulting in disrupted, lower-quality sleep.

Pairing a split king mattress with an adjustable base from Purple can completely remove motion transfer and provide a more custom sleep experience for you and your partner.

Split King vs. King: What Is a Split King + Are They Worth It?

5. Suitable for All Sleep Positions

Some mattresses are best for certain sleep positions, but Purple mattresses are comfortable for sleepers of all styles, including combination sleepers. Purple’s Restore™ Hybrid mattress collection is especially beneficial for a range of sleep positions, offering a blend of structured support and superior cushioning for spinal alignment and pressure relief.

6. Less Expensive Alternative to Sleep Number

Sleep Number beds may offer on-demand customization, but the high price tag is a major deterrent. If you’re searching for a less expensive alternative to Sleep Number beds, Purple mattresses offer superior cooling, pressure relief, motion isolation, and responsiveness.

Deciding how much you should spend on a mattress depends largely on your sleep needs and preferences, as well as your budget. Make sure you invest in a mattress that will keep you comfortable and improve your sleep quality.

Is Sleep Number the Only Adjustable Mattress?

No, Sleep Number is not the only manufacturer of adjustable mattresses or smart beds, though they were a pioneer in the space.

If you’re searching for a Sleep Number alternative, Purple mattresses offer exceptional, instantaneous pressure relief and support with our proprietary GelFlex® Grid. When you pair your mattress with an adjustable base, you’ll get even more customization and comfort to enhance your sleep quality at a fraction of the cost of a Sleep Number bed.

Sleep Better With Purple

Regardless of your sleeping style, Purple mattresses adapt to your body contours, ensuring a personalized sleep experience.

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