Sleepfoundation.org is reader-supported. We may earn a commission through products purchased using links on this page. Learn more about our process here
Written by
Sleepfoundation.org is reader-supported. We may earn a commission through products purchased using links on this page. Learn more about our process here
Researching different brands and models is an integral part of the mattress-buying process. Each mattress made today is designed for certain people based on body type, sleep position, and firmness preferences; the notion that any mattress will be universally comfortable for all sleepers is a myth. In this guide, we’ll compare two leading “bed-in-a-box” mattress brands that specialize in memory foam models: Puffy and Leesa.
Puffy first opened up shop in 2017. The flagship Puffy Mattress is a 10-inch model constructed with a comfort layer of memory foam over denser polyfoam transitional and base layers. Since its inception, Puffy has released two additional all-foam mattresses. The Puffy Lux is a 12-inch model that builds on the flagship bed with an additional polyfoam comfort layer for extra contouring and cushioning. The Puffy Royal, which measures 14 inches thick, includes three foam comfort layers and a zoned transitional layer that delivers enhanced support to the torso and waist. Although Puffy mattresses feel progressively softer with each added layer, all three models are considered medium (5) in terms of firmness.
Leesa launched in 2014. The flagship Leesa Original is a mixed-foam mattress made with a polyfoam comfort layer and a memory foam transitional layer over high-density base foam. Leesa has released three subsequent mattresses. The Leesa Hybrid also contains polyfoam and memory foam layers, but its support core consists of pocketed coils. The Leesa Legend is also a coil-on-coil hybrid, meaning it contains a microcoil comfort layer in addition to polyfoam and memory foam components, as well as a pocketed coil base. Lastly, the Studio by Leesa is a budget-friendly memory foam model with a similar build as the Puffy Mattress. The Leesa Original is considered medium (5), while the other three Leesa models are medium firm (6).
This Puffy mattress vs. Leesa mattress guide for comparison-shoppers will take an in-depth look at the construction, pricing, and performance of each of these brands’ models.
Price Range (Queen)$795 to $2,995 |
Price Range (Queen)$699 to $2,499 |
Firmness OptionsMedium (5) |
Firmness OptionsMedium (5), Medium Firm (6) |
Standout Features
|
Standout Features
|
Models |
Models |
Sleep Trial & Warranty101-night sleep trialLifetime warranty |
Sleep Trial & Warranty100-night sleep trial10-year prorated warranty |
Customer ServiceA+ |
Customer ServiceA+ |
For many mattress shoppers, size is one of the first considerations. Mattresses sold today are usually available in six standard sizes. These include the twin, twin XL, and full sizes designed for single sleepers, as well as the queen, king, and California king on which two or more people can rest comfortably.
Weight is also important when dealing with bed-in-a-box models. These beds are delivered directly to your doorstep, meaning you’ll need to carry the box to the room where you plan to use the mattress – and heavier models may require more than one person.
Lastly, you should consider which height – or profile – you prefer for a mattress. Some people would rather sleep close to the ground on a low-profile bed (less than 10 inches) while others feel more comfortable with the extra padding of a high-profile mattress (more than 12 inches). For many sleepers, a medium profile (10 to 12 inches) is a good compromise.
| Height | Size Options |
|---|---|
| 10" | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King |
| Height | Size Options |
|---|---|
| 12" | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King |
| Height | Size Options |
|---|---|
| 14" | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King |
| Height | Size Options |
|---|---|
| 10" | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King |
| Height | Size Options |
|---|---|
| 11" | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King |
| Height | Size Options |
|---|---|
| 12" | Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King |
| Height | Size Options |
|---|---|
| 10" | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King |
As you can see, both Puffy and Leesa offer most of their mattresses in each of these six sizes; the only exception is the Leesa Legend, which is not available in a twin. Specialty sizes, such as full XL or split options, are not available from either brand. If carrying the mattress is a concern, Puffy and Leesa each offer multiple models that weigh 75 pounds or less in queen size, which is considered relatively light. The Puffy Royal, Leesa Hybrid, and Leesa Legend all weigh at least 100 pounds in the same size and will be more difficult to lift and carry.
Puffy and Leesa offer a range of profiles, as well. The Puffy Lux, Puffy Royal, and Leesa Legend are all high-profile beds and should be suitable for anyone who wants to sleep on a thicker mattress with extra padding layers. For those seeking a medium-profile bed, the Puffy Mattress, Leesa Original, Leesa Hybrid, and Studio by Leesa will probably be more comfortable.
When comparing mattresses, pay close attention to the specific materials used in each individual layer. A bed’s construction and material composition can affect its price and overall feel, as well as durability, edge support, pressure relief, and other performance factors.
Below, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of layers and materials for each Puffy and Leesa mattress.
Puffy Mattress
The flagship Puffy Mattress begins with a 2-inch comfort layer of proprietary CloudComfort memory foam. The mattress has a medium feel and the foam conforms quite closely, especially for people who weigh at least 130 pounds. This creates the sinking, body-cradling feel that has come to define memory foam mattresses. The memory foam is also infused with gel, which is intended to help cool off the surface, but we found the mattress still absorbs and traps body heat to a noticeable extent – a common issue with memory foam beds.
A 2-inch layer of transitional polyfoam reinforces the comfort layer and prevents you from sinking too deeply, while a support core of high-density polyfoam stabilizes the entire mattress. Altogether, the Puffy Mattress measures 10 inches thick, making it Puffy’s shortest mattress.
Puffy Lux
The Puffy Lux is 12 inches thick. While still a medium feel, this mattress has a plusher surface feel than the flagship model and you’ll experience very deep conforming. This can be attributed to a 1.5-inch comfort layer of gel-infused CloudComfort memory foam over a second 2-inch comfort layer of adaptive polyfoam. The mattress also contains a transitional polyfoam layer and a high-density polyfoam base.
Puffy Royal
The Puffy Royal is even thicker and plusher than the Puffy Lux, but by our standards, this mattress also offers a medium feel. The comfort layers consist of 1.5 inches of gel-infused memory foam, 2 inches of polyfoam, and a third polyfoam layer that provides both additional padding and extra transitional reinforcement. This mattress contours more closely than the other two Puffy models, so you’ll feel a very deep, body-cradling sensation as the foam adapts to your figure.
The Puffy Royal’s transitional layer is zoned, meaning it feels firmer beneath your chest, lower back, and hips while cradling the head and neck, shoulders, and legs. Although the zoned foam is intended to provide enhanced support, many back and stomach sleepers still sink quite a bit on the Puffy Royal due to its exceptionally close contour. The mattress also includes a 7-inch high-density polyfoam support core.
All three Puffy mattresses are encased in covers made from 100 percent polyester. These covers can be unzipped, removed, and laundered in any household machine – though Puffy only recommends washing and drying the covers every few months in order to preserve the fabric from wear and tear. The covers carry the OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification, meaning they have been made without toxic chemicals and other harmful substances.
Leesa Original
The flagship Leesa Original contains a 2-inch comfort layer of low-density polyfoam and a 2-inch transitional layer of low-density memory foam. Polyfoam is a bit more responsive than memory foam and won’t contour as closely, so when comparing the flagship Leesa mattress vs. Puffy, the former feels a bit bouncier and more supportive than the latter. That said, the polyfoam comfort layer has an indentation load deflection (ILD) of 13, while the memory foam has an ILD of 9. Both of these figures indicate a fairly soft feel and close contouring; foam ILD can reach up to 40 in beds with firmer feels.
The lower density of its comfort and transitional foams also means the Leesa Original is somewhat breathable, since higher-density foams tend to absorb and trap more body heat. At the same time, lower foam density is also associated with shorter mattress lifespans, so you may notice the foam layers of your Leesa Original deteriorating somewhat quickly. The mattress also includes a 6-inch support core made from 1.8 PCF high-density polyfoam with an ILD of 32.
Leesa Hybrid
The Leesa Hybrid contains two comfort layers: a top 1.5-inch layer made of low-density polyfoam (13 ILD) and a second 1.5-inch layer made of medium-density memory foam (14 ILD). Since the second layer is a bit denser and firmer than the memory foam found in the flagship Leesa mattress, the Leesa Hybrid has a medium firm feel and won’t wear out as quickly. A transitional polyfoam layer provides added reinforcement to prevent you from sinking too deeply.
The Leesa Hybrid’s 6-inch support core contains pocketed coils. The interior coils have a gauge of 14.5, indicating middle-of-the-road thickness and fairly robust support, while thicker coils line the perimeter of the mattress to reinforce the edges. As a result, you shouldn’t sink too much when getting on and off the mattress. A 1-inch layer of high-density base polyfoam bolsters the coil layer to deliver added stability.
Leesa Legend
The Leesa Legend is another hybrid model. The top 1-inch comfort layer consists of aerated polyfoam, which promotes decent airflow near the surface for added cooling. The mattress also contains a second 1-inch comfort layer of memory foam, and a third 1.5-inch comfort layer of microcoils zoned with polyfoam. The memory foam hugs the body for a close contour, while the zoned microcoils deliver enhanced support throughout the body and make the surface feel very responsive. This is a good option for those who prefer bouncier mattresses.
The transitional polyfoam layer is also zoned to cradle your lighter areas and reinforce parts of the body – such as the stomach and hips – where people tend to carry a disproportionate amount of weight. As a result, the Leesa Legend is well-equipped for side and back sleepers across different weight groups. Its interior pocketed coils have a gauge of 15, making them slightly thinner than the Leesa Hybrid’s interior coils, while thicker coils help stabilize the perimeter of the mattress.
Leesa Studio
Lastly, the Studio by Leesa is the brand’s newest mattress model. This is also the only Leesa bed with a top comfort layer of memory foam. Unlike the other Leesa mattresses, the Studio by Leesa provides more of a traditional memory foam feel with deep contouring and slow response. A transitional polyfoam layer and high-density polyfoam support core provide good overall reinforcement. This mattress has a medium firm feel, so it will provide more reinforcement for people who weigh 130 pounds or more.
Cover materials vary by Leesa model. The Leesa Original, Leesa Hybrid, and Studio by Leesa have polyester-blend covers. For the Leesa Legend, the cover is crafted from a fabric blend that includes polyester, plastic from recycled bottles, organic cotton, merino wool, rayon, and spandex. None of the Leesa mattress covers should be removed for cleaning. Instead, the company recommends spot-cleaning with mild detergent and cool water if stains occur.
| Model | Average Rating |
|---|---|
| Puffy | 5/5 |
| Puffy Lux Mattress | 5/5 |
| Puffy Royal | 5/5 |
| Model | Average Rating |
|---|---|
| Leesa Original | 4.5/5 |
| Leesa Hybrid Mattress | 4.5/5 |
| Leesa Legend | 4.9/5 |
| Studio by Leesa | 4.6/5 |
Every mattress offers distinct advantages and disadvantages based on how firm it feels, how thick its profile is, and the materials used to construct its various layers and components. Based on feedback from sleepers and our own testing, we’ve given ratings to each Puffy and Leesa mattress based on the following performance categories.
Durability:
The average mattress will perform for six to eight years before a replacement is needed. Over time, the comfort, transitional, and support layer materials will begin to deteriorate. As this occurs, you may notice a loss of shape on the surface, less support from the base layers, and more sinkage when you get in and out of bed. Typically, innerspring and all-foam mattresses have the shortest lifespans among all mattress types – about six to seven years on average. Hybrids typically last at least six and a half years.
Motion Isolation:
Some mattresses are designed with materials that absorb movement when you shift positions or get on and off the bed, and will prevent this motion from transferring across the surface and disrupting your sleep partner. If the mattress is responsive due to certain components – such as latex or coils – then you and your partner will notice more movement on the surface and may experience sleep disturbances as a result.
Sex
Most couples prefer responsive, gently contouring mattresses for sex. With added bounciness on the surface, you and your partner will be able to move freely without sinking too deeply, but some conforming ensures good traction when you want to maintain one position for a longer period of time. Edge support is another consideration. If the edges are weak and deep sinkage is likely, you and your partner may feel confined to the middle of the mattress.
Temperature Neutrality
Mattresses with solid foam layers tend to absorb and trap body heat, causing sleepers to feel excessively warm. Other materials are more breathable and promote airflow to help the mattress maintain a comfortable temperature. These include foam or latex layers ventilated with small holes, coil systems that push air currents throughout the interior, and covers infused with cooling fabrics and fibers. Firmness can also impact temperature neutrality, since deep contouring can cut off surface airflow for sleepers.
Pressure Relief
How well (or poorly) a mattress alleviates pressure points depends on how much you weigh and which sleep position you primarily use. The best mattress for pressure relief will support the lower back, cushion your heavier areas without sinking too much, and promote even spinal alignment. People who weigh less than 130 pounds tend to prefer softer beds that conform very closely, whereas those who weigh more than 200 pounds gravitate toward firmer, more supportive mattresses instead.
Off-gassing
Foam layers typically cause mattresses to emit noticeable off-gassing after you remove them from their shipping boxes. These smells originate from volatile organic compounds (VOCs), tiny particles that carry a distinct chemical odor. The smells will usually dissipate in a matter of days, but beds with dense foam layers may need more time to air out. If smells persist after a couple of days, try placing the mattress in a well-ventilated room in order to flush out unwanted odor.
Ease of Movement
Beds that sink deeply can be somewhat difficult to move across; many people liken the feeling to being trapped in the mattress. If a bed sinks too much, you’ll probably have a hard time getting on and off the mattress and may also experience discomfort when changing sleep positions. Firmer, more responsive mattresses generally don’t have this issue.
Edge Support
Most beds sink at least a little when you sit or lie near their edges. However, some mattresses reinforce the perimeter with thick coils, dense foams, and other supportive materials to provide more push-back and prevent excessive sinkage. On the other hand, softer mattresses with less robust edge materials will probably sink quite a bit and this issue may worsen over time, leading to more instability.
|
|
Puffy | Puffy Lux Mattress | Puffy Royal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Firmness | Medium (5) | Medium (5) | Medium (5) |
| Durability | 3/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Motion Isolation | 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Sex | 2/5 | 2/5 | 2/5 |
| Sleeps Cool | 2/5 | 2/5 | 2/5 |
| Pressure Relief | 4/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Off-Gassing | 2/5 | 2/5 | 2/5 |
| Ease of Movement | 2/5 | 2/5 | 2/5 |
| Edge Support | 3/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 |
|
|
Leesa Original | Leesa Hybrid Mattress | Leesa Legend | Studio by Leesa |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Firmness | Medium (5) | Medium Firm (6) | Medium Firm (6) | Medium Firm (6) |
| Durability | 3/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Motion Isolation | 4/5 | 3/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Sex | 3/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 |
| Sleeps Cool | 3/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 |
| Pressure Relief | 4/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Off-Gassing | 3/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Ease of Movement | 3/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 |
| Edge Support | 2/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 |
Several factors contribute to a mattress price-point. For example, smaller sizes generally cost hundreds – if not thousands – of dollars less than larger sizes. Material construction is also important. The average all-foam mattress costs between $900 and $1,200 in a queen size, whereas the average hybrid costs $1,600 to $2,200 in the same size. Lastly, some brands simply price their mattresses higher than others. This is especially true of brick-and-mortar sellers, who face high overhead costs from operating stores and employing commissioned sales staff. Online brands do not normally face this kind of overhead, and can sell mattresses for much less.
Current prices for each Puffy and Leesa mattress in each available size are listed in the tables below.
|
|
Puffy | Puffy Lux Mattress | Puffy Royal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Twin | $795 | $1445 | $1645 |
| Twin XL | $825 | $1495 | $1745 |
| Full | $995 | $1595 | $2445 |
| Queen | $1150 | $1795 | $2695 |
| King | $1350 | $1995 | $2995 |
| California King | $1350 | $1995 | $2995 |
|
|
Leesa Original | Leesa Hybrid Mattress | Leesa Legend | Studio by Leesa |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Twin | $599 | $999 | - | $599 |
| Twin XL | $699 | $1,099 | $1999 | $649 |
| Full | $899 | $1,399 | $2299 | $699 |
| Queen | $999 | $1,699 | $2499 | $799 |
| King | $1199 | $1,899 | $2999 | $999 |
| California King | $1199 | $1,899 | $2999 | $999 |
The Puffy Mattress has a price-point that is in line with the average all-foam model. However, the Puffy Lux and Puffy Royal have fairly expensive price-points compared to other memory foam mattresses from competing brands. Price may be a deterrent for these mattresses if you have a limited shopping budget.
Leesa’s all-foam and hybrid models, by comparison, are on par with – if not lower than – industry averages for those mattress types. That said, the Leesa Hybrid and Leesa Legend are still somewhat costly.
Sleep Trial & Returns
| Warranty | Shipping |
|---|---|
| Lifetime Warranty | Free in contiguous 48 states and Canada |
Sleep Trial & Returns
| Warranty | Shipping |
|---|---|
| 10 Year, Limited | Free ground shipping |
Shipping
Puffy offers free ground shipping to customers within the contiguous U.S. Those who reside in Alaska and Hawaii must pay additional delivery charges. This is somewhat standard among bed-in-a-box companies. Leesa, on the other hand, provides free ground shipping to all 50 states. If you live in Alaska or Hawaii, ordering from Leesa can save you a considerable amount of money. Leesa also ships mattresses to Canada, the United Kingdom, and Germany, whereas Puffy’s deliveries are limited to the U.S.
For standard deliveries, all Puffy and Leesa mattresses will be compressed, vacuum-sealed, and shipped in a compact box. This box will be delivered to your doorstep, so you won’t need to sign for the package or be at home when the mattress arrives. Carry the box to the room where you plan to use the mattress, unbox it, and use a knife to cut away the plastic. The mattress will immediately begin to expand, but give it at least 24 hours to fully recover its shape.
Leesa also offers White Glove delivery in select locations for a flat fee of $150. This service includes a scheduled delivery date, in-home mattress assembly, and (upon request) removal of your old mattress and/or box spring. Mattresses are not compressed for White Glove delivery. Puffy does not offer in-home assembly or old mattress/box spring removal with any orders.
Returns
Since most online mattress brands do not operate brick-and-mortar stores where you can test out their models, these companies offer sleep trials of 90 nights or longer. In most cases, you’ll be able to return the mattress for a full refund. Sleep trials are essential for truly knowing how a mattress feels and performs before financially committing to it.
Puffy’s sleep trial spans 101 nights from the date of delivery. Puffy requires you to test out the mattress for at least 14 nights before initiating a return or mattress exchange, but recommends you actually sleep on the bed for at least 30 nights in order to break it in properly. In the event of a return, Puffy will issue a full refund (minus shipping fees for Alaska and Hawaii) and send couriers to retrieve the mattress from your residence and transport it for donation or recycling. Each household may use the Puffy sleep trial a total of two times.
Leesa’s sleep trial is 100 nights in length. There’s no mandatory break-in period with this trial, but – like Puffy – Leesa encourages you to test out the mattress for at least 30 nights before requesting a return. Leesa will issue a full refund for customers in the contiguous U.S. and send couriers to retrieve the mattress from their residence. If you live in Alaska or Hawaii, you’ll pay a $100 return fee – but couriers will still be sent to pick up the mattress for no extra charge. Leesa strives to donate all returned mattresses, but will recycle them instead when necessary.
Warranties
A warranty is an agreement between the manufacturer of a product and consumers that states the former will be responsible for repairs or replacements if the product is defective. The vast majority of mattresses sold today come with a warranty that spans at least 10 years in length.
Puffy is one of the few mattress brands to offer a non-prorated lifetime warranty for its mattresses. Non-prorated means you won’t pay anything if your mattress develops a defect and needs to be repaired or replaced; lifetime means the warranty covers the mattress as long as you retain ownership. Under this warranty, defects include sagging or body impressions in the surface measuring 1.5 inches or deeper and manufacturing flaws associated with the mattress cover.
Leesa’s warranty is a bit shorter – 10 years altogether – but this warranty is also non-prorated. If the mattress develops a defect during the first 10 years, you won’t pay anything apart from minor shipping and transportation costs to have the bed repaired or replaced. This warranty covers sagging and body impressions of 1 inch or deeper, physical flaws that cause materials to deteriorate prematurely, and manufacturing defects with the cover.
Mattress warranties are non-transferable, meaning only the original purchaser will qualify for warranty coverage. If you buy or obtain the mattress from the original purchaser, you won’t receive warranty protection – so always buy mattresses directly from brands or authorized retailers.
