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Sleepfoundation.org is reader-supported. We may earn a commission through products purchased using links on this page. Learn more about our process here
Because there are so many different mattress options available, trying to evaluate too many at one time can be overwhelming. Instead, many shoppers find that their best bet is to take two solid choices and put them through an in-depth, head-to-head comparison. In this guide, we match up Layla versus Purple to see how these two well-known brands stack up against one another.
Layla has built its name based on a special design that utilizes copper-infused memory foam and offers a distinct firmness feel on each side of a reversible mattress. Purple’s brand is built on the performance of its proprietary Purple Grid, a patented hyper-elastic polymer material that is the comfort layer in all of their mattresses.
Both Layla and Purple got started with just one all-foam mattress and have now widened their appeal with hybrid mattress offerings. Layla has two total beds in their product line while Purple has four, including two, known collectively as the Purple Hybrid Premier, that are higher-priced, luxury options.
Given the quality that goes into the mattresses from these two companies, deciding between them is no easy task. Knowing all the details that can shape your decision, including about sizing, pricing, performance, reviews, and more, can set you up to make the best possible choice about your new mattress.
Price Range (Queen)$999-$1,599 |
Price Range (Queen)$1,099-$2,999 |
Firmness OptionsReversible: Medium Soft (4), Firm (7) |
Firmness OptionsMedium (5), Medium Firm (6) |
Standout Features
|
Standout Features
|
Models |
Models |
Sleep Trial & Warranty120-night trialLifetime warranty (Layla Mattress), 10-year warranty (Layla Hybrid) |
Sleep Trial & Warranty100-night trial10-year warranty |
Customer ServiceA+ |
Customer ServiceA+ |
One of the first things to account for when buying a new mattress is the size of your bedroom, what size bed it can fit, and the amount of bed space that you really need.
A bed that is a full or larger is necessary for couples and most people who really like to stretch out. But while a bigger bed can mean more ample space to get comfortable, it can create a cramped feeling if your bedroom is on the smaller side.
Other mattress dimensions that are worth thinking about include height and weight. The combined height of your mattress and bed frame plays a role in how easy it is to get up from bed, which can be an important consideration for people with arthritis or other joint issues. Some taller mattresses also require special fitted sheets with an extra-deep pocket. As for mattress weight, you might not notice it on a regular basis, but when it comes time to move the bed, it can be a big deal.
| Height | Size Options |
|---|---|
| 10" | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King |
| Height | Size Options |
|---|---|
| 13" | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King |
| Height | Size Options |
|---|---|
| 9.5" | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, California King |
| Height | Size Options |
|---|---|
| 11" | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, California King |
| Height | Size Options |
|---|---|
| 12" or 13" | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, California King |
One major sizing difference between the Purple and Layla mattresses is that most of the offerings from Purple are not available in a twin size. Only the original Purple Mattress is offered in a classic twin; the others have the twin XL as their smallest size. Layla, on the other hand, offers both of its mattresses in a twin as well as in the other standard mattress sizes.
At the other end of the size spectrum, Purple has a specific option for purchasing a split king mattress, which is equivalent to two twin XL mattresses and designed for use with an adjustable bed frame. Though Layla does not directly offer this size, customers looking for a split king can purchase separate twin XL models.
The mattresses from Purple weigh considerably more than those from Layla. For the all-foam options, the Purple Mattress is roughly the same height as the Layla Mattress but weighs 30 pounds more. The Purple Hybrid and Hybrid Premier mattresses weigh between 7 and 50 pounds more than the Layla Hybrid. For customers who expect to move frequently, the high weight of the Purple mattresses may be a turn-off.
All of the mattresses offered by these companies are of generally similar height, although the hybrid offerings from both companies are taller than the all-foam ones.
If you want to do a truly in-depth comparison of the Layla and Purple mattresses, it’s critical to look carefully at how these beds are built. For any mattress, the choice of materials and the way those materials are layered have an outsized effect on its performance and longevity.
A reversible firmness design is a defining feature of the construction of both the Layla Mattress and the Layla Hybrid. While most mattresses are built with a clear top and bottom, these beds provide customers the flexibility to use either side. One of the sides has a medium soft (4) firmness level, and the other side is firm (7). This 2-in-1 firmness system is ideal for people who aren’t sure of their optimal firmness level, and it’s also great for many teens and young adults who may have changing firmness needs as they grow.
Layla Mattress
The original Layla Original Mattress is an all-foam bed with four interior layers:
The cover goes over all four sides and is made with 66% polyester, 30% viscose, and 4% poly-lycra. It has a blend of softness and stretchiness and works to promote cool sleep with its breathability and a ThermoGEL cooling agent.
On either side of the Layla Mattress, a layer of copper-infused memory foam works to cradle key pressure points and enhance spinal alignment. On the medium soft side, that layer is thicker, enabling much more sink. The infused copper works to chip away at heat retention while also providing an antimicrobial effect.
The polyfoam with SMT technology has a zoned design to cater to the support needs of heavier parts of the body, and the four-inch polyfoam layer acts as the support core, creating a sturdy feel for each side.
Layla Hybrid
The Layla Hybrid shares several design elements with the Layla Mattress. Its cover has the same composition of polyester, viscose, and poly-lycra, but on the hybrid, the company has added 100% vinyl handles to make it easier to move the mattress.
Like the all-foam option, the Layla Hybrid has a reversible design, but in this model, the support core is made of pocketed innerspring coils. In total, the Layla Hybrid has five internal layers:
In this mattress, the copper-infused memory foam creates a contouring feel while at the same time being antimicrobial and less prone to heat buildup. This material is thinner on the firm side of the mattress, making it better suited for people who want only light conforming.
Unlike in the Layla all-foam mattress, the Layla Hybrid has zoned, SMT-driven polyfoam on either side of the support core. This helps serve as a transition layer between the memory foam and the coils while at the same time taking advantage of the tailored support that this zoned material can provide.
The support core uses pocketed innerspring coils, which means each spring has greater independent movement and the ability to meet the needs of the body without transferring excess motion. The coils are thicker in key areas, such as around the edge, to enhance stability, and their responsiveness delivers notable bounce to each side of the Layla Hybrid.
Purple sets itself apart from other mattresses on the market thanks to a specialty material known as the Purple Grid. It is found in the top layer of the comfort system of all of the company’s mattresses, and it is a driving force behind their performance.
The Purple Grid is a proprietary material known as a hyper-elastic polymer. Structurally, it looks like a network of squares or a series of 3D tic-tac-toe boards. The foam-like polymer material in this grid allows each square to compress when weight is applied to it but then rapidly bounce back when that weight is removed.
With this design, the Purple Grid offers a rare combination: it can both cushion the body and provide considerable bounce. On top of this blend of characteristics, the Purple Grid minimizes most motion transfer and, thanks to its open structure, allows plenty of ventilation so that it can stay cool throughout the night.
In addition to the Purple Grid, another component found in all of the Purple mattresses is the cover, which is made of 67% polyester, 29% viscose, and 4% lycra for a mix of breathability and smoothness. Purple recommends that customers use their branded sheets over this cover in order to best facilitate the action of the Purple Grid and maximize its ability to support the body.
Purple Mattress
The original mattress that allowed Purple to build its brand, the Purple Mattress has a medium firm (6) feel and three internal layers:
In this model, the 2-inch Purple Grid is bolstered by the transition polyfoam layer that hedges against excessive sinking into the bed. The 4-inch support core is thinner than in most all-foam beds, but it works with the transition polyfoam to create a dependable base for the Purple Grid.
Purple Hybrid
After the rapid success of the original Purple Mattress, the company rolled out a new model that still utilized the Purple Grid but opted for a coil-based support core. The Purple Hybrid has a medium firm (6) feel and three layers:
As in the Purple Mattress, the Purple Grid top layer helps accommodate pressure points while keeping heat buildup to a minimum. The firmer and denser transition polyfoam keeps sleepers from bottoming out the comfort system and putting excess pressure on the springs.
In the Purple Hybrid, the support core is thicker (7.5 inches) and made with individually-wrapped coils. Those coils generate notable bounce and permit lots of ventilation, making this mattress excellent at temperature regulation.
Purple Hybrid Premier
After its first foray into a hybrid design, Purple rolled out a luxury hybrid known as the Purple Hybrid Premier. The design of the Hybrid Premier is quite similar to that of the Purple Hybrid, but the key difference is that the Hybrid Premier offers a thicker Purple Grid.
In fact, the Purple Hybrid Premier comes in two versions, each of which has a different thickness of the Purple Grid. One model is 12 inches tall, has a medium firm (6) firmness level, and has three layers:
Another version of the Purple Hybrid Premier is 13 inches tall, has a medium (5) feel, and also has three layers:
These two models are designed for people who want to get the most out of the Purple Grid and its unique performance benefits. With thicker layers of the hyper-elastic polymer, the comfort system in the Purple Hybrid Premier can cushion the bodies of people with much sharper pressure points and higher body weights. In addition, with the robust innerspring support core, this mattress provides a reliable feel, plenty of bounce, and the airflow needed for a cool night’s sleep.
| Model | Average Rating |
|---|---|
| Layla Mattress | 4.5/5 |
| Layla Hybrid | 4.5/5 |
| Model | Average Rating |
|---|---|
| Purple Mattress | 4.3/5 |
| Purple Hybrid | 4.4/5 |
| Purple Hybrid Premier | 4.4/5 |
To find a mattress you love, you need to have an idea of what are the most important features that you’re looking for. The ideal mattress for any person depends on their needs and comfort preferences, so getting a handle on what you’re looking for can guide you to the right bed.
Of the various factors that influence mattress satisfaction, we’ve highlighted eight of the most important that, along with firmness, tend to have the biggest influence on mattress satisfaction. As you read this list, think about which of these elements are your top priorities.
Durability
If you don’t want to have to search for a new mattress again anytime soon, then you’ll want to invest in a durable mattress. This saves you money and improves the return on your investment. It also contributes to better sleep since a worn-out mattress won’t give your body the comfort or support that it needs. To find a durable mattress, look for beds that have a thoughtful design, robust materials, and the backing of a reputable company.
Motion Isolation
If you share a bed with someone who moves around a lot at night, then motion isolation can help make sure that their stirring doesn’t cause you to wake up. As you’d expect, this feature matters most to couples, especially if one of the bed partners is easily awoken. Motion isolation works by having a comfort system that has a controlled reaction to the body’s weight and doesn’t send vibrations across the mattress. One of the best materials for motion isolation is memory foam, while bouncier materials tend to have more motion transfer.
Sex
The main use for a mattress other than sleeping is sex, and for some shoppers, it’s critical to find a bed that is well-suited to an active sex life. Bouncy beds usually best fit that bill because their springiness makes it simple to make the quick body movements that are frequently a part of sex. Mattresses with lots of sink and very little bounce cause the greatest problems for sex since they can be prone to making people feel stuck in the bed.
Temperature Neutrality
Maintaining a neutral temperature through the night is a key part of avoiding sleep disruptions. Waking up sweaty and throwing off blankets can be a serious sleep disturbance. A major contributor to sleeping hot is a lack of airflow around the body, which is most likely to occur on a material with deep conforming like memory foam. Materials with open structures, like coils, permit more ventilation that can help with temperature control as well.
Pressure Relief
For truly restful sleep, each part of the body needs the right amount of cushioning and support. Mattresses with a comfort system that can tailor to meet the body’s shape and sleeping position help to make sure that every pressure point is accommodated comfortably. By doing this, a mattress eliminates impact and works to keep the spine in alignment while you sleep so that you can wake up feeling fresh.
Off-gassing
During the manufacturing process, compounds known as VOCs (volatile organic compounds) are produced, and they can be held tightly to the materials when a mattress gets compressed and packaged for shipping. When that packaging gets removed after delivery, the VOCs can get released, giving off a “new mattress smell.” There’s no health risk to them, but they can be bothersome, especially to people with sensitivities to smells. Foam materials tend to off-gas more than other materials used in mattresses.
Ease of Movement
If you feel stuck in a mattress when you lie down on it, it can make it a real chore to get out of bed or to move your body into a different sleeping position. Ease of movement eliminates these issues and is most easily found with a responsive and bouncier mattress.
Edge Support
Most mattress materials are prone to feeling softer or weaker around the edge. While this isn’t always an issue, it can lead to a perception of instability if the mattress is particularly soft and compresses excessively around its perimeter. Edge support tends to matter more to people with smaller mattresses that often sleep close to the edge. It can also be of greater import to people who like to sit on the edge of their bed. Foam beds, especially very soft ones, can have subpar edge support while hybrid designs and edge reinforcement systems can provide greater dependability around the perimeter.
|
|
Layla Mattress | Layla Hybrid |
|---|---|---|
| Firmness | Medium Soft (4), Firm (7-8) | Medium Soft (4), Firm (7) |
| Durability | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Motion Isolation | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Sex | 3/5 | 4/5 |
| Sleeps Cool | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Pressure Relief | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Off-Gassing | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Ease of Movement | 3/5 | 4/5 |
| Edge Support | 3/5 | 4/5 |
|
|
Purple Mattress | Purple Hybrid | Purple Hybrid Premier |
|---|---|---|---|
| Firmness | Medium Firm (6) | Medium Firm (6) | Medium Soft (5), Medium Firm (6) |
| Durability | 3/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Motion Isolation | 4/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Sex | 4/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Sleeps Cool | 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Pressure Relief | 4/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Off-Gassing | 3/5 | 3/5 | 4/5 |
| Ease of Movement | 3/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Edge Support | 3/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 |
Many mattress shoppers aren’t sure how much they really need to spend to get a high-quality mattress. Unfortunately, as mattress prices range from the bargain basement to the super luxury, it isn’t always easy to know what a good mattress will cost.
Although it’s not an exact science, there are some factors that can most directly sway the price of a mattress:
When shopping, don’t forget that the sticker price for a mattress is different from what most customers actually pay at checkout. Discounts are commonplace through coupons, sales events, or other promotions. Retail prices for each Layla and Purple mattress are listed below, but both companies frequently offer deals.
|
|
Layla Mattress | Layla Hybrid |
|---|---|---|
| Twin | $599 | $1199 |
| Twin XL | $699 | $1299 |
| Full | $899 | $1499 |
| Queen | $999 | $1599 |
| King | $1099 | $1799 |
| California King | $1099 | $1799 |
| Split King | - | - |
|
|
Purple Mattress | Purple Hybrid | Purple Hybrid Premier |
|---|---|---|---|
| Twin | $649 | N/A | N/A |
| Twin XL | $749 | $1299 | $1899 or $2499 |
| Full | $949 | $1499 | $2099 or $2699 |
| Queen | $1099 | $1599 | $2199 or $2999 |
| King | $1399 | $1899 | $2699 or $3499 |
| California King | $1399 | $1899 | $2699 or $3499 |
| Split King | $1498 | $2598 | $3798 or $4998 |
Among the all-foam beds, the Layla Mattress has a very slight price advantage compared to the Purple Mattress, but overall, they are priced comparably.
For the hybrid mattress options, the Layla Hybrid and Purple Hybrid have a very similar price point. The Purple Hybrid Premier, though, is a luxury offering that comes at a much higher cost than the Layla Hybrid or the basic Purple Hybrid.
Overall, for customers looking for the lowest-priced option, Layla gets a very slight advantage, but people who want a choice of options from the widest price range, including luxury models, Purple gets the edge.
Sleep Trial & Returns
| Warranty | Shipping |
|---|---|
| Lifetime | Free shipping to contiguous U.S. |
Sleep Trial & Returns
| Warranty | Shipping |
|---|---|
| 10 Year, Non-prorated | Free |
While it’s natural that the mattress itself is the focus of our comparison of Layla versus Purple, it’s also important to devote some consideration to the customer-oriented policies around shipping, returns, and warranties. If you’re buying a mattress online for the first time, we’ll provide some relevant background and explain the policies of these two companies.
Receiving a mattress that you’ve bought online normally happens in one of two ways:
The Layla Mattress and Layla Hybrid come with free standard shipping to customers located in the 48 contiguous U.S. states. Shipping is available to Alaska, Hawaii, and Canada for an additional fee. Layla does not offer any White Glove delivery services.
For the Purple and Purple Hybrid, standard shipping is free in the 48 contiguous states and offered for an extra charge to Hawaii, Alaska, and Canada.
For the Purple Hybrid Premier, White Glove delivery is included in the purchase price for customers in the contiguous U.S. This service includes installation and old mattress removal, and it may be available in other locations for an additional fee.
White Glove delivery services are not available for the Purple Mattress; however, they can be purchased as an add-on service for $149 for customers buying the Purple Hybrid.
Buying a mattress sight-unseen online can be a worry for some shoppers, so to help put their minds at ease, most online mattress companies provide a sleep trial. This trial is a type of flexible return policy during which a customer can get a refund if they test out the mattress and find that it isn’t the right match for their needs.
Sleep trials usually last a few months, but the exact length varies by manufacturer. Many companies require that you keep the mattress for a set period so that you can get a feel for it and adjust to it before making a final decision about a return. If you want to return the mattress, it’s typical for the company to either pick it up or work with you to find a place to donate it. In some situations, customers may have to pay a return shipping fee.
Layla offers a 120-night trial for both of its mattresses. The company requests that you try the mattress out for 14 days before deciding about whether to return it. In the event that you want to make a return, the company coordinates a pickup at no cost, and you receive a full refund.
Purple extends a 100-night sleep trial for all of its mattresses. There is a mandatory 21-night break-in period before a return can be requested. For returns, Purple picks up the mattress for free; customers receive a full refund.
Though it’s not common, defects can arise in mattresses, and for that reason, customers are protected by a warranty. Covered defects do not include accidental damage to the mattress from stains, spills, or pets. They also do not include gradual wear-and-tear.
Mattress warranties last for a period of years and stipulate a remedy — usually repair or replacement of the mattress — if a defect occurs. There may or may not be a charge to the customer for part of the cost. In a prorated warranty, the customer’s share of costs increases based on how long they’ve owned the mattress.
For the Layla Mattress, the company provides a lifetime warranty against defects. If a defect arises, the company will repair or replace the mattress. Customers are responsible for up to $50 in shipping costs related to the warranty claim.
The Layla Hybrid has a 10-year, non-prorated warranty. The company will repair or replace a defective mattress during that period with customer costs capped at $50 for shipping charges.
All of the Purple mattresses have the same warranty. This warranty lasts for two years for the mattress cover and 10 years for the internal components. During those time frames, the company will repair a defect or replace the material or the mattress as a whole. Customers are responsible for some costs, including for shipping and in some cases for inspection of the mattress.
