Did you know that falling asleep should only take you 10 to 15 minutes. And if you fall asleep in less than 5 minutes, you're probably sleep deprived. Sleep is an important factor in good overall well-being.
That's why choosing between a hybrid vs memory foam mattress isn't just about comfort – it's about investing in your long-term health!
If you’ve already decided to buy a hybrid mattress, you can check out my post on the best hybrid mattresses.
Or you can read my step-by-step comprehensive guide on how to choose the best hybrid mattress based on your needs, preferences, sleep position, and budget.
Understanding these differences of a of a hybrid mattress vs memory foam can help you figure out which one meets your needs.
Each one has benefits, but at the end of the day, it comes down to your needs and what you like.
Don’t settle for just any mattress. Make sure it’s the right one for you!
Hybrid vs Memory Foam Mattress: What’s The Difference?
So what’s the difference between the two? I know when I was looking for a new mattress, the word “hybrid” threw me off and because I had only ever slept on an innerspring coil mattress, I didn’t really understand what memory foam was.
Let's talk about what's actually inside different types of mattresses, because it’s going to make a huge difference in finding your perfect match.
What Is A Memory Foam Mattress
Memory foam mattresses might look simple from the outside, but they're actually an amazing work of engineering.
Think of them like a layer cake, with each layer serving a specific purpose.
The bottom layer is the foundation – it's usually about 6 to 8 inches of really dense foam that keeps everything stable and prevents sagging over time. This isn't your typical foam, it's heavy-duty stuff that needs to support all the layers above it.
Moving up from the base, you'll find what's called the transition layer.
What is a transition layer and why is it important?
It stops you from feeling like you're sinking too far into the mattress. It's typically 2 to 3 inches thick and acts like a buffer zone between the firm bottom layer and the soft top.
Now the comfort top layer. Everyone is familiar with this star of the show. This is the part that gives you that classic memory foam feel.
It molds perfectly to your body shape and is usually 2 to 4 inches of premium memory foam here,
And it can also include cooling technologies like gel beads to help manage temperature.
What Is A Hybrid Mattress
Instead of being all foam, a hybrid mattress combines the best of old and new technology. The core of a hybrid is a layer of coils – usually somewhere between 800 to 1,200 of them in a queen size mattress.
Now that's some support!
But these aren't old style squeaky bed springs. They're individually wrapped coils that move independently, which means when your partner tosses and turns, you're less likely to feel it. Mattress manufacturers call this “motion isolation”
Above those coils, hybrid mattresses use various foam layers for comfort. You might find memory foam, latex, or other types of foam in these upper layers. The total comfort section usually ranges from 3 to 7 inches thick.
That's what gives hybrids their unique feel – comfortable but the support is there. A perfect match for someone like me.
Temperature Control In Mattresses
Hybrid mattresses have an advantage for hot sleepers like me, because they naturally stay cooler.
And why is that? Air can flow through the coil layer. This keeps the mattress cooler and in turn, your body cooler. When you combine this natural airflow with cooling comfort layers on top, hybrids usually win the race in the cooling department. Good news for hot sleepers like me.
Memory foam mattresses have to work harder at keeping cool, which is why you'll often see special cooling technologies built into their layers.
What kind of technology? If you see terms like gel infusion, phase-change materials, or open-cell foam structures, they are there to help you sleep cool and comfortable!
Mattress Durability
Both hybrid and memory foam mattresses can last a long time if they're well-made. And if you clean and maintain them regularly.
Hybrid mattresses tend to maintain their shape and support longer. You can thank those steel coils for that.
Memory foam mattresses depend more on the quality of the foam – higher density usually means better durability.
Mattress Height Differences
Here’s something many people don’t consider - mattress height.
Hybrid mattresses are usually taller, typically ranging from 12 to 16 inches
Memory foam mattresses generally measure between 10 and 14 inches.
The height difference is because of the coil system in hybrids. They just take up more space than an all foam design.
Why is this important? Well, if your mattress is taller than 14 inches, then you’ll probably need deep pocket sheets.
Just something to consider when buying a new mattress!
Remember, neither type is "better" – it really depends on YOUR needs.
Some people love the “sink in” feeling of memory foam. Others prefer the extra bounce and airflow of a hybrid.
Understanding how they're built helps you match their features to your own sleep preferences.
Comfort And Support Hybrid and Memory Foam Mattress
We all want comfort AND support with a new mattress. Let’s look at how the two types of mattresses support you to give you the sleep quality you deserve.
How Memory Foam Contours
You can be sure that no matter which mattress you buy, you’ll get the support you need. But hybrid and memory foam mattresses do it in different ways.
You’ve probably heard from people you know who own memory foam mattresses that they’re super comfortable and great at relieving pressure.
Lie down on a memory foam mattress and it slowly contours to your exact body shape. Feels like a custom fit!
How is the pressure relieved? Well, your weight is distributed evenly so it can reduce pressure on sensitive areas like shoulders and hips. Those aches and pains you wake up with are a thing of the past.
The Hybrid Bounce
Hybrid mattresses work differently. The individually wrapped coils provide "responsive support" – they push back with just the right amount of force. Some people describe it as a “bounce” effect.
And to keep you comfortable, above these springs, there are foam comfort layers that offer pressure relief similar to memory foam.
Memory foam may win the race for pressure relief, but hybrids do a great job too. And it always comes down to preferences and personal taste.
Sleeping Positions
Mattress support is important, but it really isn’t “one size fits all”
Why? Because we all sleep in different positions.
For a memory foam mattress, the more pressure you apply to it, the more the mattress pushes back. Side sleepers benefit the most from this, because it helps with spinal alignment. And the foam gradually adjusts to your body weight, which makes it feel comfortable and great support.
Hybrid mattresses do it a bit differently. The coil base give immediate pushback, which many back and stomach sleepers prefer. These coils are usually zoned, meaning they're firmer in areas where you need more support (like your lower back) and softer where you need more give (like your shoulders).
Edge Support
Edge support is also important in how comfortable your mattress is.
Hybrid mattresses are great at edge support because of reinforced coils at… well, the edge of the mattress. This means you can sit or sleep near the edge without feeling like you might roll off.
Memory foam mattresses tend to compress more at the edges, though many newer designs have gotten better with edge support.
Motion Transfer
This just means how much movement you feel when your partner moves. And there’s a big difference between hybrid and memory foam mattresses.
Memory foam is great at absorbing motion. If your partner tosses and turns all night, you're less likely to feel it on a memory foam mattress.
Hybrid mattresses transfer a bit more motion due to those innerspring coils. But it is kept at a minimum.
Break-In Period
This comes down to personal experiences. Some people who have memory foam mattresses report a "break-in period" where time is needed for the mattress layers to adjust to their body.. They find them uncomfortable at first but grow to love them after a few weeks.
Hybrid mattresses are usually comfortable immediately on day one. They often can become even more comfortable as the comfort layers adjust to your body.
Temperature Regulation And Cooling
If you’re a hot sleeper like me, then you know what it’s like to wake up too warm and uncomfortable.
Thankfully, I have AC to help with getting a good night’s sleep!
Did you know that your body temperature naturally drops when you sleep?
A cooler mattress can help you fall asleep faster, which is why manufacturers have invested in cooling technologies.
And there are differences between how hybrid and memory foam mattresses manage temperature.
Memory foam has a reputation for sleeping hot.. When memory foam softens in response to your body heat, it creates that "hugging" feeling – but it can trap heat.
But hold on, there are solutions for memory foam fans!
Memory Foam Cooling Technology
Modern memory foam mattresses have come a long way in keeping you cool.
What are these technologies that can make a difference for us hot sleepers?
Gel infusion, where tiny gel beads are mixed into the foam to help draw heat away from your body. These gel particles can absorb quite a bit of heat before they warm up.
Phase change materials are special materials in the mattress cover or top layer and help to keep you comfortable. They absorb excess heat when you’re warm and release heat when you cool down. It's like having a built-in thermostat.
Hybrid Mattress Cooling Advantages
Coils systems give hybrid mattresses an advantage in the cooling department.
How is this possible? Well, it comes down to hybrid mattress design.
Those individually wrapped springs create plenty of space for air to circulate through the mattress. This improved airflow helps carry away the heat your body gives off at night. It makes sense how the design can keep you cooler.
Specialized cooling material to move heat away from your body makes it even better! Materials that can be infused into the foam include latex, gel-infused foam, copper and graphite. These materials are really good at moving heat away from your body.
Cooling Mattress Covers
Mattress covers don’t get much credit for keeping you cool. And, of course, you can put them on any type of mattress and get the cooling benefits.
Look for terms like "phase change material," "cooling fibers," or "thermal regulation" in the description. They make a difference when you lie down on the mattress!
Open Cell Foam
What is open cell foam? Sounds high tech, because it kinda is.
Memory foam typically has a dense structure. But open-cell foam contains tiny air pockets that allow for better airflow. So instead of trapping all that heat, it can escape the mattress and keep you cooler.
Remember how we mentioned that memory foam is great for pressure relief? Well you still get those benefits, but now you can be cooler!
Comfort and cooler sleep. Problem solved.
Pro tip: If you really want a cooling mattress, look for terms like "temperature neutral" rather than just "cooling."
Temperature neutral means the mattress won't warm up while you sleep, while cooling features work to remove heat from your body.
The best options will combine both so you get a cool and comfortable night’s sleep!
Hybrid vs Memory Foam Mattress Lifespan
If you’re going to make a big investment in a mattress, then you want it to last as long as possible, right?
Durability and lifespan of your mattress need to be part the decision making process.
So let’s talk numbers. Here are the average lifespans of each mattress:
hybrid mattress typically last from 7 to 10 years.
memory foam mattresses generally last 6 to 8 years.
Keep in mind that these are just averages. Things like mattress quality and how well you maintain it need to be factored in.
So why the difference between the average lifespan of hybrids and memory foam mattresses?
Well, it all comes back to the construction we talked about. In hybrid mattresses the coil system gives them durability. A quality hybrid mattress uses steel coils that are individually wrapped and create a backbone for the mattress..
This is an advantage when it comes to resistance to sagging. Those steel coils maintain their shape and pushback much longer than foam alone.
And hybrid mattresses often have reinforced edges with stronger coils, which makes the sides feel firm.
The length of time your memory foam mattress will last depends a lot on foam density. Really pay attention to the density in the support core.
High-density foam (look for at least 1.8 pounds per cubic foot for the base layer) will maintain its shape and support longer than lower-density foam. Make sure you look for these specs or ask while shopping.
Hybrid and Memory Foam Cost
As with most things, value goes way beyond just looking at a price tag. You want to make a smart decision for the long haul!
So let’s look at the price facts for memory foam mattresses:
Memory foam mattresses typically range from $300 to $3,000 for a queen size.
Entry level prices can start as low as $300 for a real budget model. But, no surprise, the foam quality is low and they will need to be replaced sooner
Good memory foam mattresses go for $1,000 to $1,800. These are better quality and construction that you should expect. You’ll pay more for the higher quality foam and cooling technologies we reviewed earlier.
Now, let’s review price information on hybrid mattresses:
Hybrid mattresses usually fall between $700 and $3,500 for a queen.
Construction is a bit more complex for hybrid mattresses, so the price is a bit higher (remember those innerspring coils and layers)
Expect to pay between $1,200 and $2,000 for a good quality hybrid mattress.
Mattress Lifetime Value
In addition to the average lifespan of a hybrid and memory foam, you should also consider additional costs that you might not be aware of when buying a mattress.
Here are a few that get overlooked:
- Who knew that you needed to think about the mattress foundation? I didn’t at first, either. Memory foam mattresses often work fine with basic foundations. But hybrids might require more robust support systems. This can add some serious money to your final cost. So keep in mind that a quality foundation can add $100-300 hit to your wallet. But it's important to have the right foundation to keep it in good shape and extend the life for as long as possible.
- Edge support. Hybrid mattresses typically offer better edge support. Important if you share you bed because you'll have more usable space.
- Warranty coverage affects long-term value too. Both types typically come with 10-year warranties, but what's covered varies significantly. Better warranties often indicate manufacturer confidence in their product's durability.
- I am a big fan of sleep trials and they are critical if you’re shopping online! Most quality mattresses now come with trial periods ranging from 100 to 365 nights. Make sure you check whether returning a mattress is free or whether there’s a fee involved.
- If you’re a couple looking to buy a new mattress, then motion isolation is definitely important. Memory foam is best for reducing movement in the bed, but hybrids with great coil systems do well too. But the best motion isolation in hybrids comes from higher-end models.
Pro tip: It’s not just about your mattress lasting a long time. You deserve comfort and support every night you sleep on it.
If a mattress gives you aches and pains, then it’s not a good value at any price. Focus on your specific needs, sleep position and preferences and you’re sure to get the right mattress for you!
Best Mattress For Your Sleeper Profile
We all have a favorite position to sleep, right? We all don’t weigh the same. We all have different preferences. Or we have different problems we are trying to solve. All these are part of our own unique sleep profile.
If you understand which mattress works best for the kind of sleeper you are and your unique needs, then it’s much easier to choose the right mattress.
So let's look at what works best for different types of sleepers.
Side Sleepers
Side sleepers really like memory foam mattresses. And exactly why is that? Well, when you sleep on your side, your shoulders and hips create pressure points. Memory foam is great at providing these areas extra cushioning.
But if you’re a side sleeper over 200 pounds, you might do better with a hybrid. They are great for giving you additional support.
Back Sleepers
Back sleepers are usually happy with either type of mattress. Memory foam works well for back sleepers who like a more cozy and comfortable feel, and those with lower back pain
Now back sleepers who like hybrid mattresses most often need enhanced lumbar support from the coil system. The responsive feel of a hybrid mattress appeals to back sleepers.
Stomach Sleepers
Hybrid mattresses are the clear winner for most stomach sleepers. The coil system keeps their hips aligned with their shoulders, preventing lower back pain.
Speaking from experience, memory foam lets stomach sleepers sink too deeply and can throw off your spinal alignment.
Your Weight And Mattress Type
We all are a different size, shape, and weight. Hey, that’s what makes us unique! But did you know that weight is important when deciding which mattress is right for you?
Here are some guidelines to follow related to weight and your mattress search:
Sleepers under 130 pounds often prefer memory foam because they need a surface that will conform to their body weight. These lighter individuals might find some hybrid mattresses too firm because they don't weigh enough to get the benefit of the responsive coils.
For those between 130-230 pounds, both mattress types can work well. The choice often comes down to personal preference and sleep position.
Sleepers over 230 pounds usually do better with a hybrid mattress. The coil support provides the extra support for good spinal alignment. While some high-density memory foam mattresses work great, hybrids are usually the better choice for long-term comfort for heavier individuals.
Hybrid vs Memory Foam Mattress: Pros and Cons
So by now you’ve figured out that there are advantages and disadvantages to both types of mattresses, depending on preferences, sleeping position, budget, etc.
Let’s make it very clear and review the key differences at a glance and which mattress wins for each category. After all, you want to make the right decision!
Memory Foam | Hybrid | |
|---|---|---|
Pressure Relief | Cell | |
Motion Isolation | Cell | |
Cool Sleep | Cell | |
Edge Support | Cell | |
Responsiveness | Cell | |
Budget | Cell | |
Lifespan | Cell | |
Break-In Period | Cell |
Let’s dive into some of the details here.
Pressure relief - Memory foam conforms to your body and cradles your pressure points. It’s the clear winner on this point.
Motion Isolation - Foam absorbs motion instead of moving it across the mattress. The coils in a hybrid mattress do a great job, but can’t compete with memory foam on motion isolation..
Cool Sleep - Sleeping hot is a common complaint with memory foam mattress owners. The coil construction and airflow allow a hybrid mattress to keep you cooler and more comfortable at night.
Edge Support - Hybrid mattresses typically have reinforced coils along the edge of the mattress. Hybrids win on this point.
Responsiveness - Here again the coil system in a hybrid mattress provides that bouncy feel that many prefer. Memory foam gives you more of that “cozy” wrap around feel. Hybrid wins again.
Budget - Because of the more complex construction of hybrid mattresses, they are usually more expensive. Memory foam wins on budget concerns.
Lifespan - Hybrids have great support because of their coil construction and usually last longer and are more durable.
Break-In Period - memory foam mattresses need some time to soften and get that body hug that many like. That’s not the case with hybrids, so they win here.
Conclusion
Choosing between a hybrid vs memory foam mattress comes down to your personal needs, sleeping style, and budget. While memory foam is great for pressure relief and motion isolation, hybrid mattresses offer better cooling and edge support.
Take your time and make an informed decision and you’ll have the best mattress to give you a great night’s sleep for years to come.