Written by Julia Forbes, Lead Tester
Sleep Number is one of the most popular brands when it comes to high-quality, high-tech mattresses. These are smart mattresses designed to improve your sleeping experience by allowing you to tailor your bed to your needs.
Sleep Number mattresses are unique in that they’re extremely customizable, meaning you can, for example, adjust the firmness on each side of the bed or track your sleep throughout the night using their app. Based on these features, it’s no surprise they’re also known for their high prices. It’s this mark-up that often puts people off and leads them to think about alternatives.
Sleep Number alternatives may not be as high-tech, but they can help you achieve the same quality of sleep at a fraction of the cost. In this article, we’ll discuss some mattresses that can serve as Sleep Number alternatives and why we think they’re a good replacement.
Best Sleep Number Alternatives
- Nectar with Adjustable Base – Best Sleep Number p5 Alternative
- Saatva Solaire – Best Sleep Number iLE Alternative
- DreamCloud with Adjustable Bed Frame – Best Sleep Number c4 Alternative
- Nolah Signature 12” + Adjustable Base – Best Sleep Number i8 Alternative
- Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe with Adjustable Base – Best Sleep Number m7 Alternative
- Bear Star Hybrid with Adjustable Base – Best Sleep Number p6 Alternative
How We Chose The Best Sleep Number Alternatives
At Sleep Advisor, we test mattresses in different categories shoppers typically find important in a new mattress, such as support, pressure relief, cooling, and bounce, among others. We use multiple tools and methods to bring you objective testing data and incorporate feedback from testers of different body types to ensure our reviews are as comprehensive as possible.
For this list, we also focused on featuring beds that not only performed well in general testing but that also have unique, comparable qualities to Sleep Number beds. Check our product review process page to learn more about how we test each mattress.
Our Video Review of the Best Sleep Number Alternatives
Compare Sleep Number Competitors
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| Nectar Mattress | Saatva Solaire Mattress | DreamCloud Original Mattress | Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Mattress | Bear Star Hybrid Mattress | |
| Rating | ||||||
| Firmness | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Soft: 4/10 | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6/10 |
| Material | Foam | Other | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid | Hybrid |
| Cooling | — | — | ||||
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | 10-year warranty | Lifetime warranty |
| Shipping | Free shipping | Free white glove delivery | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping |
| Trial Period | 365 nights | 365 nights | 365 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights |
| Best For | Back Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Hip Pain, Joint Pain | Couples, Hot Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hip Pain | Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Seniors | Side Sleepers, Back Pain | Hot Sleepers, Back Pain, Side Sleepers | Joint Pain, Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers |
What We Look for in Sleep Number Alternatives
Smart Features and Technology
Sleep Number mattresses are known for their advanced technology, so this is one of the first things we look for in an alternative model. Sleep Number beds are smart mattresses that track your movement, heart rate, and breathing, so we like to see an alternative model that has at least some tech features.
Adjustable Firmness
Sleep Number beds have the ability to switch between 20 different firmness settings so you can go from having the softest to the firmest feel, all in one bed. We think a good alternative should have some level of adjustability when it comes to firmness and feel. This might look like immediate adjustability (similar to the Sleep Number style), or the mattress comes with different firmness options that you can pick from before ordering.
Adjustable Base Compatibility
Sleep Number mattresses are compatible with adjustable bases, with the company selling some of their own to complement their mattresses, so we like to see alternatives that are also adjustable base compatible. Adjustable bases are helpful because you can raise the head and/or foot of the bed to make yourself more comfortable.
The 6 Best Sleep Number Alternatives
Nectar with Adjustable Base – Best Sleep Number p5 Alternative
Product
Type
Score
Product
Type
Score
| Smart Features in Base | Adjustable Firmness | Adjustable Base Compatible |
| Wireless remote, zero-gravity setting, adjustable height | No | Yes |
Why the Nectar with Adjustable Base Earned Best Sleep Number p5 Alternative
The Nectar itself isn’t a customizable mattress but works excellently with an adjustable base. Pairing the two gives you a similar feel you’d get from a customizable mattress such as the Sleep Number p5, if a little softer because of its all-foam construction.
With an adjustable base, the Nectar bed can be raised or lowered in various ways to accommodate all kinds of sleepers, though it’s best for back and side sleepers—like the p5.
Saatva Solaire – Best Sleep Number iLE Alternative
Product
Type
Score
Product
Type
Score
| Smart Features in Mattress | Adjustable Firmness | Adjustable Base Compatible |
| Adjustable firmness on both sides, wired remote, memory option | Yes, 50 levels | Yes |
Why the Saatva Solaire Earned Best Sleep Number iLE Alternative
The Saatva Solaire is the most luxurious smart bed on this list, thus we offer it as a possible alternative to the Sleep Number iLE, the most luxurious option in their Innovation line.
While the iLE offers 20 unique firmness levels, the Saatva Solaire offers more than twice that at 50. So, in some cases, this bed might be less of an alternative and more of an upgrade—even though it already comes in $1,000 less than the Sleep Number iLE before sales!
DreamCloud with Adjustable Bed Frame – Best Sleep Number c4 Alternative
Product
Type
Score
Product
Type
Score
Product
Type
Score
| Smart Features in Base | Adjustable Firmness | Adjustable Base Compatible |
| One-touch settings, control via app or wireless remote, quiet massage, USB ports | No | Yes |
Why the DreamCloud with Adjustable Bed Frame Earned Best Sleep Number c4 Alternative
The c4 mattress by Sleep Number is one of the brand’s more basic options, meant to attract consumers who want an affordable smart bed. It’s got a firmer feel, thus we’re offering up the DreamCloud mattress as an alternative.
The DreamCloud offers luxury at a reasonable price; it features a luxurious cashmere cover, soft foams, and a robust coil unit. You can add on the brand’s adjustable bed frame to mimic the Sleep Number c4. Coupons and sales often bring the price of a DreamCloud queen and adjustable base down to $1,414, which is about $400 less than a full-priced c4.
Nolah Signature 12” with Adjustable Base – Best Sleep Number i8 Alternative
Product
Type
Score
Product
Type
Score
Product
Type
Score
| Smart Features in Base | Adjustable Firmness | Adjustable Base Compatible |
| Wireless remote, USB charging ports, zero-gravity setting, full-body massage, under-bed lighting | No | Yes |
Why the Nolah Signature with Adjustable Base Earned Best Sleep Number i8 Alternative
The i8 by Sleep Number is an adjustable bed best suited to back sleepers. It boasts a breathable cover and thick comfort layer to keep cool while providing cushion. If you’re looking for a traditional mattress with a similar feel, consider the Nolah Signature.
The Nolah Signature is a soft bed, coming in on our firmness scale at 4 out of 10, whereas the i8 has adjustable firmness. Although you can’t adjust the Signature’s firmness, you can adjust its position by placing it on an adjustable base, making it easier to modify how the bed feels. The Nolah Signature also uses proprietary AirFoam™ to keep cool and provide some bounce—both not seen in traditional foam.
Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe with Adjustable Base – Best Sleep Number m7 Alternative
Product
Type
Score
Product
Type
Score
Product
Type
Score
| Smart Features in Base | Adjustable Firmness | Adjustable Base Compatible |
| Self-sufficient power supply, preset preferences, wireless remote | No | Yes |
Why the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe with Adjustable Base Earned Best Sleep Number m7 Alternative
The m7 model by Sleep Number is one of the coolest the brand offers. Similarly, the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe excels in regulating temperature. It’s not an adjustable bed on its own, but it provides plenty of lift and bounce. It’s also got a firmer feel that should keep everything properly aligned and prevent the possibility of pressure buildup and pain.
Tacking on an adjustable base makes this bed an optimal alternative rather than forking over thousands of dollars for the Sleep Number m7. Brooklyn Bedding has several adjustable bases you can pick from, but I’d go with their Ascension Luxe model, which has special settings like zero-gravity, anti-snore, and massage, along with USB ports.
Bear Star Hybrid with Adjustable Base – Best Sleep Number p6 Alternative
Product
Type
Score
Product
Type
Score
Product
Type
Score
| Smart Features in Base | Adjustable Firmness | Adjustable Base Compatible |
| Cooling, Sleep Recovery Technology™, zero gravity preset, wireless remote. | No | Yes |
Why the Bear Star Hybrid with Adjustable Base Earned the Best Sleep Number p6 Alternative
Sleep Number’s p6 model feels firmer than other models due to its thinner comfort layer, so if you’re looking for a bed with a similar feel, consider the Bear Star Hybrid.
While not a customizable mattress, the Bear Star Hybrid has all the cooling capability of the p6 and then some—mostly thanks to its cover, which features Celliant® and HydroCool® technology. It also keeps you lifted while still relieving pressure in areas that can cause problems, like the shoulders and hips. Pair it with an adjustable base to mimic the Sleep Number’s maneuverability.
How Much Can You Save Buying a Sleep Number Competitor?
| Alternative Mattress & Price (Queen Size w/o discounts) | Sleep Number Model & Price (Queen Size) | Total Savings |
| Nectar ($1,099) | Sleep Number 360 p5 Smart Mattress ($2,699) | $1,600 |
| Saatva Solaire ($4,495) | Sleep Number 360 iLE Smart Mattress ($5,499) | $1,004 |
| DreamCloud ($1,332) | Sleep Number 360 c4 Smart Mattress ($1,899) | $567 |
| Nolah Signature 12” ($1,799) | Sleep Number 360 i8 Smart Mattress ($3,999) | $2,134 |
| Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe ($1,865) | Sleep Number 360 m7 Smart Mattress ($3,999) | $2,134 |
| Bear Star Hybrid ($1,398) | Sleep Number 360 p6 Smart Mattress ($3,199) | $1,801 |
What Is a Smart Bed?
A smart bed uses a variety of technologies such as sensors that collect data about your sleep patterns and foot-warming technology. Typically, a smart bed uses the data gathered to adjust certain features as you sleep. Some of these features may include the firmness, temperature, incline, and level of support, depending on the company.
Smart Beds vs. Adjustable Bases
A smart bed may share similarities with an adjustable bed, but there are several important distinctions. With an adjustable base, you can use any compatible mattress, which is usually noted on the manufacturer’s website. An adjustable base has hinges that you can modify manually to raise or lower the head and foot of the mattress.
Unlike an adjustable base, smart beds use various technologies, such as sensors that track your sleeping habits throughout the night. Smart beds are typically more expensive than adjustable bases because of the technology used. However, smart beds can be more precisely adjusted to your needs, while an adjustable base can only be adapted to your preferred incline.
What to Look for in a Smart Bed or Sleep Number Alternative
Smart Features and Technology
Smart features and technology can elevate your entire resting and sleeping experience. Smart beds and those paired with adjustable bases have different features and settings that allow you to customize the feel and performance. This helps you adjust the bed to what feels the most comfortable for you while also providing additional perks like massage settings.
Adjustable Firmness
Sometimes, your preferences and needs can change over time — or maybe you’re just not sure what’s going to feel most comfortable in a new bed. This is where an adjustable firmness makes a world of difference.
In some cases, a smart bed uses air chambers to adjust the firmness, while in others, the bed is flippable with a different firmness on each side. Other times, you might find a mattress that’s available in multiple firmness options, and you pick which one you want during the ordering process.
Adjustable Base Compatibility
Just like Sleep Number mattresses, a good Sleep Number alternative is compatible with an adjustable base, which allows you to get the most out of its feel and performance. By placing a mattress on an adjustable base, you get to elevate your head and/or feet, and in many cases, you can also enjoy extra features such as massage or under-bed lighting, for example. An adjustable base turns even the most basic mattress into a cozier haven.
Type of Mattress
Innerspring Mattresses
Innerspring mattresses usually have only a few layers, including a coil unit and a single comfort layer. For this reason, these beds aren’t as great at pressure relief and motion control compared to hybrid and memory foam models. Innerspring mattresses usually aren’t the best to pick as an alternative to Sleep Number, but this depends on the specific model you’re interested in.
Hybrid Mattresses
Hybrid beds have individually wrapped coils that give these beds some bounce and support. However, they’re different from innerspring beds in that they have multiple comfort layers that make them better at pressure relief, motion isolation, and overall durability. They’re high-quality so they can easily replace Sleep Number mattresses, but make sure to go for reputable brands.
Memory Foam Mattresses
Memory foam mattresses are typically great at motion isolation and pressure relief, but they don’t have much bounce because there aren’t coils. You can choose among various firmness levels, and they typically pair nicely with many adjustable bases, making them a good choice as Sleep Number alternatives. Memory foam beds usually contain poly foam support layers, as well as gel infusions to help prevent overheating.
Latex Mattresses
Latex beds are good if you’re a hot sleeper and a fan of more responsive beds. Unlike memory foam, latex has a quicker response and is unlikely to make you feel stuck in a mattress. Latex is more breathable than memory foam, so the construction is unlikely to overheat. Plus, latex is highly durable, so these often last longer than other mattress types.
Other Considerations When Shopping for a Sleep Number Bed Alternative
Sleeping Position
Sleep Number mattresses can accommodate many sleeping positions when you lift or lower different parts of the bed. However, not every mattress can do that, at least not without an adjustable base.
For this reason, consider your preferred sleeping position and how you would like your bed to match it. Some beds are suitable for all sleeping positions, but others may be too soft or firm.
Weight/Body Type of Sleepers
How much you weigh affects how you experience a bed’s firmness. In other words, if a mattress has a mid-range firmness, but you weigh over 230 pounds, you’re likely to experience it as softer than a person weighing under 130 pounds would.
Similarly, you want to consider your body frame and whether certain body parts are more prone to pressure buildup. For example, do you have broad shoulders? If so, you may want a softer bed that’s good at pressure relief to prevent pressure from building up in the shoulders when you sleep on the side.
Read More: Best Mattress for Heavy People
Cooling
Cooling is a major factor to consider if you’re a hot sleeper. If you often sweat and overheat when you sleep, certain cooling features can help you achieve a better night’s sleep.
Hybrid, latex, and innerspring mattresses run cooler than memory foam. However, manufacturers now add infusions like gel and copper to help cool memory foam and prevent it from overheating. Many brands also have proprietary cooling technologies and cooling covers to provide more comfort for those who sleep hot.
Explore our picks for the Best Cooling Mattresses.
Pressure Relief
Sleep Number mattresses have an adjustable firmness, and with that, they can provide more or less sinkage and pressure relief.
Alternative mattresses may also have an adjustable firmness that allows you to achieve the same thing. If not, you may want to focus on a softer bed if pressure relief is your main concern.
Even a mid-range firmness may work, depending on your body weight, as it should allow a balance of pressure relief in the hips, knees, and shoulders while ensuring proper spine alignment.
Related: Best Mattress for Pressure Relief
Edge Support
Edge support is another feature in which Sleep Number mattresses excel. However, other brands can achieve this as well.
Many companies include different reinforcements, such as strong coils or denser foam, around the perimeter to ensure the edges stay consistent, without collapsing under weight. Edge support may not be important for single individuals, but couples and co-sleepers usually appreciate having consistent support along the perimeter when they spread out.
Budget
Sleep Number mattresses are expensive, which means they won’t fit within everyone’s budget. That’s where Sleep Number alternatives can help. They may not offer all the bells and whistles of a Sleep Number bed, but they come with plenty of advantages, including a lower price in many cases.
Explore the Best Budget Mattresses.
Trial Period
Trial periods are a great way to test out a mattress before fully committing to a sometimes steep price. You can sleep on the mattress for a specific number of nights, and if you’re not satisfied with your purchase within that time frame, you can return the product.
Trial periods are especially important when purchasing a smart bed. Trial periods from reputable brands typically start at 90 or 100 nights and go up to a full year, which should allow you time to get used to your new mattress and decide if it’s the right fit for you.
Device Compatibility
When shopping for a Sleep Number or smart bed alternative, you’ll want to consider if the mattress is compatible with your smartphone, tablet, or laptop. It’s possible that some brands may only accommodate Apple products, for example, which means if you’re an Android user, you’ll want to look elsewhere.
Looking for more smart sleep items? Explore the best smart mattresses.
Best Sleep Number Alternative Mattress FAQs
What is the lifespan of a Sleep Number bed?
Sleep Number beds are designed to last for a minimum of 15 years, and they come with a 15-year limited warranty.
What is the most affordable Sleep Number bed?
The most affordable Sleep Number is the Sleep Number 360® c2, at $1,099 for a Queen. It’s the most basic model, with an 8-inch base and a 2-inch comfort layer.
What’s the difference between an adjustable base and a smart bed?
An adjustable base can be used with an existing compatible mattress to raise the head and/or foot of the bed. Some adjustable bases come with features like under-bed lights, vibrating alarms, and massage settings.
A smart bed is a mattress with built-in high-tech features. In Sleep Number’s case, this means adjustable firmness and sleep tracking technology, which is measured using pressure sensors in the mattress. Sleep Number also sells a range of adjustable FlexFit™ smart bases that help you get more out of your mattress, with features like Partner Snore, zero gravity, and foot warming.
Julia Forbes
Lead Product Tester
About Author
Julia is the Lead Reviewer at Sleep Advisor, specializing in testing out mattresses and sleep accessories – she’s in the right line of work, because she loves to sleep.
Stomach Sleeper
Education & Credentials
- Certified Sleep Science Coach