Saatva vs. Helix Mattress Comparison

Quick Look

We’ve worked hard to compare these models to show you which is the best mattress for you. Check out our full mattress guides listed below!

Sizing Options

From twin to California king, there are many size options to consider. A smaller mattress is the more economical choice and takes up less space in your home, but it might feel more cramped. A larger mattress may feel more spacious, but it comes with a higher ticket price, takes up more space, and is more challenging to move.

The height and weight of a mattress are also important factors. Thicker mattresses often provide more support for larger sleepers. Depending on an individual’s height, they may find a higher- or lower-profile model easier to get into and out of. However, the height of the foundation or frame will also affect the overall height of the bed system. The weight of the mattress influences how easy it is to move and the type of foundation or frame that can support it.

Saatva and Helix both have a wide variety of size options to fit the needs of most sleepers. In addition to models with broad appeal, both Saatva and Helix offer an option for larger sleepers. Saatva also has a model designed specifically for children.

Saatva has fewer models than Helix, but some come in split king and split California king in addition to the standard sizes. The Saatva Mattress is the only model between the two brands that offers a choice of height, making it more customizable. While they’re in a similar weight range, Saatva’s mattresses tend to be slightly heavier than those by Helix.

Helix has a wider selection of models available. However, since all of them can be classified as high profile, they may require deep pocket sheets for a proper fit.

Construction and Materials Comparison

Materials and construction affect the quality, feel, performance, and durability of a mattress. Saatva produces primarily innerspring models, while Helix uses hybrid designs.

Innerspring: An innerspring model is generally what comes to mind when thinking of a traditional mattress. This type of bed is made primarily of support coils with a thin comfort layer. Most innerspring models are breathable, bouncy, easy to move on, and have good edge support.

Hybrid: A hybrid model essentially combines some of the elements used in a classic innerspring mattress with additional foam layers similar to an all-foam mattress. It typically has a coil core and a comfort system made of memory foam, polyfoam, and/or latex. Hybrid mattresses usually balance conforming, motion isolation, temperature regulation, and springiness.

Saatva

Saatva mattresses are all made with durable materials, including a GOTS-certified organic cotton cover with an antimicrobial treatment. The company’s three innerspring models are the Saatva Mattress, the Youth, and the HD. The Latex Hybrid uses a hybrid design.

Saatva Mattress 

The Saatva Mattress is highly customizable with two options for height, a wide range of sizes, and three firmness levels to choose from. The height options include 11.5 inches and 14.5 inches, and the firmness choices are Plush Soft (3), Luxury Firm (6), and Firm (8). Available sizes include the six standard options, split king, and split California king. Its materials include:

• Pillow-Top: The 3-inch pillow-top is wrapped in breathable, hypoallergenic, GOTS-certified organic cotton with an antimicrobial treatment. Polyfoam sewn into the cover adds cushioning.
• Memory Foam Lumbar Pad: A thin layer of memory foam in the center of the bed is designed to enhance back support and pressure relief.
• Individually Pocketed Coils: This top layer of coils improves airflow and responds to movement while limiting motion transfer.
• Tempered Coil Core: The coil core improves durability, reduces chances of sagging, and enhances air circulation and responsiveness.
• Polyfoam Rails: High-density polyfoam wraps around the outside of the coil systems to limit edge sagging, making it easier to get in and out of bed and use the full surface.

Saatva Latex Hybrid 

Saatva’s hybrid model is made with high-quality natural materials. The Latex Hybrid’s feel is rated at a medium firm (6), which may appeal to those who like a mattress that is soft enough to reduce pressure while still providing good support for most sleepers. This model consists of:

• Organic Cotton Cover: The exterior of the Euro-top cover is GOTS-certified organic cotton, which is breathable and contains an antimicrobial treatment.
  • Organic New Zealand Wool: A layer of GOTS-certified organic wool is tufted into the cover to provide cushioning and help regulate temperature while acting as a natural flame retardant.
  • Five-Zone Talalay Latex: This material is natural, hypoallergenic, and certified by the Rainforest Alliance. Five firmness zones are designed to optimize support and pressure relief.
• Pocketed Coils: Individually pocketed recycled steel coils adjust to movement while limiting motion transfer. Zoning around the perimeter enhances edge support.
• Loft Pad: Made of GOTS-certified organic cotton and wool, this base anchors the system.

Saatva HD

The Saatva HD is a firm (7) innerspring model specifically designed for sleepers who weigh up to 500 pounds. The HD Mattress is a high-profile model, measuring 15.5 inches thick. The Saatva HD includes:

• Euro-Top: A 3-inch Euro-top includes polyfoam encased in a GOTS-certified organic cotton cover with an antimicrobial treatment.
• Five-Zone Talalay Latex: This natural, Rainforest Alliance-certified Talalay latex is hypoallergenic, breathable, and responsive. Zoning enhances the support near the middle of the bed to promote good posture.
• Memory Foam and Polyfoam: Comfort layers of foam deepen the contouring for additional pressure relief.
• Durable Coil Core: The core consists of coils that are engineered to be stronger than the industry average for long-lasting support.
• Polyfoam Base: A base layer of polyfoam supports the coil system as it compresses.
• Polyfoam Edge Reinforcement: High-density polyfoam encases the outside of the coil system to strengthen the edges.

Saatva Youth

The Saatva Youth Mattress is made for growing children between 3 and 12 years of age. This mattress is dual-sided. One side has a medium (5) feel intended for kids between 3 and 7, and the other side is firm (7) to accommodate kids from 8 through 12. The Saatva Youth includes:

• Organic Cotton Cover: The bed is covered in GOTS-certified organic cotton with an antimicrobial treatment, water-resistant finish, and waterproof barrier that is intended to shield against microorganism growth and accidents.
• Polyfoam: Both sides of the bed use a polyfoam comfort layer for cushioning. On the medium side, the polyfoam is zoned to promote spinal alignment. The firm side uses convoluted polyfoam for support and breathability.
• Dual-sided Coil Core: A core made of recycled steel coils is sandwiched between the two comfort layers to support both sides.

Helix

Helix produces six standard hybrid models as well as a Luxe upgrade option for each. Additionally, the Helix Plus is a hybrid model designed specifically for plus-size sleepers. All Helix mattresses are CertiPUR-US and OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified, meaning they’ve been tested for an array of potentially harmful substances.

Each mattress uses Memory Plus Foam and/or Helix Dynamic Foam to contour to the body and relieve pressure. Memory Plus Foam is close-conforming memory foam, while Helix Dynamic Foam is polyfoam engineered for latex-like responsiveness. All Helix mattresses use wrapped coils in their support systems to reduce motion transfer, enhance air circulation, add bounce, and provide sturdy edge support.

The Helix Luxe options have the same features as their standard counterparts but also include zoned lumbar support, an extra layer of foam for deeper contouring, and a quilted pillow-top with a Tencel cover. Additionally, the Luxe mattresses are two inches taller and come with a longer warranty.

We’ll break down the construction of each model layer-by-layer from the top down.

Soft (3)

Helix Sunset

• Memory Plus Foam (memory foam)
• Helix Dynamic Foam (polyfoam)
• Wrapped coils
• DuraDense Foam (polyfoam)

Medium Soft (4)

Helix Moonlight

• Helix Dynamic Foam (polyfoam)
• Helix Dynamic Foam (polyfoam)
• Wrapped coils
• DuraDense Foam (polyfoam)

Medium Firm (6)

Helix Midnight

• Memory Plus Foam (memory foam)
• Polyfoam
• Wrapped coils
• DuraDense Foam (polyfoam)

Helix Dusk

• Helix Dynamic Foam (polyfoam)
• Memory Foam Plus (memory foam)
• Wrapped coils
• DuraDense Foam (polyfoam)

Firm (7)

Helix Twilight

• Memory Plus Foam (memory foam)
• Polyfoam
• Wrapped coils
• DuraDense Foam (polyfoam)

Helix Plus

• Memory Plus Foam (memory foam)
• Helix Dynamic Foam (polyfoam)
• Memory foam
• Wrapped coils
• DuraDense Foam (polyfoam)

Firm (8)

Helix Dawn

• Helix Dynamic Foam (polyfoam)
• Polyfoam
• Wrapped coils
• DuraDense Foam (polyfoam)

Pricing Information

The price of a new mattress depends on numerous factors, such as the materials, construction, sizing, certifications, and policies. While shoppers can find a new mattress for as little as a few hundred dollars, the average price for a high-quality queen mattress is between $1,000 and $2,000.

Innerspring and all-foam mattresses tend to have a lower ticket price than hybrid and latex models. While some shoppers assume that the highest-priced mattress is the best, this is not always the case. It is more important to pay close attention to the features that matter to you based on your sleeping behaviors.

We’ll share the manufacturer’s retail prices, but many companies that sell mattresses online offer frequent sales and discounts throughout the year, most often around holidays.

Saatva

Helix

When comparing the prices of the models produced by Saatva and Helix, Saatva is more expensive overall, but it is still on par with the average competitor’s pricing. The Saatva HD is the most expensive of the company’s models due to its thickness and specialized components. The Latex Hybrid may represent an especially good value since both hybrid and latex models by other brands have a higher average cost.

The Helix lineup offers competitive pricing for hybrid models. The Luxe versions are more expensive than the standard options, but they are still a reasonable price compared to competing premium models

Mattress Performance Ratings

Shopping for a new mattress can be daunting with so many options on the market, but focusing on certain features can help you determine which is best for your needs and preferences.

Durability
When making a big purchase like a new mattress, it is important to know how long your investment will last. Many factors influence the lifespan of a mattress, but a typical mattress lasts about 6 to 8 years before showing significant wear and tear. The materials, the sleeper’s weight, how the mattress is cared for, and whether it is regularly rotated can impact the lifespan.

Motion Isolation
Motion isolation, a mattress’ ability to absorb vibrations, is especially beneficial for those sharing a bed with a partner. If you or your partner awaken easily from motion traveling across the sleep surface, a mattress with a high rating in this category may be right for you.

All-foam mattresses are generally among the best at isolating movement, while innerspring models traditionally allow vibrations to spread because of their springy cores. However, many newer models with coil systems use foam comfort layers and/or pocketed springs to reduce motion transfer.

Sex
Mattresses are not used exclusively for sleeping, so it is important to find a bed that fits your sleeping habits as well as your lifestyle. An all-foam mattress may cause a sinking feeling that inhibits movement but adds traction. Many people prefer a bouncy, responsive surface for sex, making innerspring and hybrid models particularly popular with couples. Factors like temperature control, noise, and edge support may also influence the overall experience.

Temperature Neutrality
Sleeping hot at night is not only uncomfortable, but it can also negatively impact sleep quality. A mattress with good airflow helps keep body temperature in a comfortable range. However, there may be other factors that contribute to sleeping hot, such as the material of the sheets, the sleeper’s clothing, and the room temperature.

Generally, memory foam has a reputation for retaining heat since it hugs closely to the body and does not allow for much airflow. As a counterbalance, some mattresses with this material use components designed for cooling.

Pressure Relief
One of the most critical features of a mattress, particularly for side sleepers, is pressure relief. Side sleepers often prefer a sleep surface that lets them sink in a bit more around their shoulders and hips to reduce the force on these wider parts of the body. The best mattress for back pain is typically a medium-firm mattress that distributes weight evenly. Most sleepers benefit from a mattress with a combination of conforming and support, but this balance also varies based on the size, weight, and position of the sleeper.

Off-gassing
Most new mattresses will let off an odor upon initial setup. This odor is caused by volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the manufacturing process that are released when the packaging is removed. This may last a few hours to a few days in a well-ventilated room. The odors are generally harmless, but if you are sensitive to smells, off-gassing may be a more important factor to take into consideration.

Ease of Movement
Ease of movement refers to the responsiveness of the mattress when the sleeper moves or changes positions. Many all-foam models hug the body and do not regain their shape quickly when you move. When you sink in deeply, it can be more difficult to adjust positions. Firmer mattresses and those with coil cores usually perform better in this category, which may make them preferable for individuals who change positions frequently.

Edge Support
A strong edge reduces sagging around the perimeter and expands the usable surface area. Most hybrid and innerspring mattresses have sturdy perimeters thanks to reinforcement in their support cores. This may include specialized coils or a firm polyfoam encasement.

Saatva

Helix

Trials, Warranty, and Delivery

Shipping

When purchasing a mattress online, the most common shipping method is compressing the mattress in a box and delivering it to the customer’s door. This shipping method is often free with purchase. While setup is usually easy, buyers should be careful when cutting open the plastic wrap to ensure they don’t damage the bed. A mattress that has been compressed will likely have a stronger odor from off-gassing and may need extra time to air out.

Another shipping method sometimes available is White Glove delivery. A few companies include free White Glove delivery, but most charge extra. With this service, the company or a contracted third party delivers the mattress and sets it up in your home. The delivery team generally removes any packaging. Old mattress removal is often widely available with White Glove delivery, although this may come with an additional cost.

Saatva Shipping Policies

Saatva offers free White Glove delivery anywhere in the contiguous United States. A team delivers your new mattress into the room of your choosing, sets it up, and can remove and dispose of your old mattress and foundation at no extra cost. Mattresses are typically constructed after the customer places their order, so shipping times vary depending on production time and the customer’s zip code.

Helix Shipping Policies

Helix delivers its mattresses compressed in a box with free shipping in the United States. Fees apply for orders to Canada. Helix typically produces the mattress after the order is placed and ships it within 3 to 10 business days after purchase. White Glove delivery is available for an additional charge.

Sleep Trial and Returns

It is standard in the online mattress industry to offer at least a 90-day sleep trial. This is the best way to determine if the mattress is right for you. Testing a mattress in a store may give you a general idea of the look and feel, but actually sleeping on it can be a very different experience.

Some companies require a minimum adjustment period to break in the bed before allowing a return. Many allow returns for a full refund of the purchase price during the eligible window. However, initial shipping or White Glove delivery fees are nonrefundable. Some companies may charge handling, processing, or shipping fees associated with the return. Companies often coordinate the removal and donation of the returned mattress with a local charity.

Saatva Sleep Trial and Return Policy

Saatva has a 365-day sleep trial. If the customer decides to return the mattress within the trial period, Saatva will refund the purchase price, less a $99 pick-up fee to cover gas and labor. Saatva also offers mattress exchanges (subject to a $99 transportation fee). If you exchange your mattress, your new mattress also has a 365-night trial period.

Helix Sleep Trial and Return Policy

Helix offers a 100-night sleep trial, which includes a 30-day required adjustment period before the mattress is eligible for return. After 30 days, if you are unsatisfied with the mattress, Helix can send you an additional comfort layer to make the mattress softer or firmer. If it still isn’t right for you, Helix will pick up the mattress, donate or recycle it, and issue a full refund of the purchase price.

Warranty

A typical warranty length for a new mattress is around 10 years. This policy is usually included with the purchase of the mattress at no extra cost and provides recourse for the original buyer if a qualifying defect occurs. Most warranties are limited, which means certain conditions or defects may not be covered. Buyers should read the fine print to understand what the policy entails. Normal wear and tear, such as minor sagging or indentations, are not typically covered. If the mattress is abused or used on an unsuitable base, the warranty may be voided.

Take note of whether the warranty is prorated, what is required of the owner, how long the coverage lasts, what qualifies as a defect, and what remedies are available for defects.

Saatva Mattress Warranty

Saatva offers a different lifetime  warranty policy for each mattress model. If defects in materials or workmanship occur within the first two years, Saatva will replace the mattress at no additional cost. After the two-year mark, Saatva will repair the mattress for a transportation charge of $149.

Saatva also offers a Fairness Replacement Option after the second year should your bed have qualifying defects. This policy allows you to purchase a new mattress by Saatva at a percentage of the original price and keep your original mattress in lieu of sending the defective bed in for repairs.

Helix Mattress Warranty

The standard Helix mattresses come with a 10-year limited warranty, while the Helix Luxe models and the Helix Plus come with a 15-year limited warranty. This warranty covers permanent indentations greater than 1 inch, physical flaws that lead to cracking or splitting foam, and manufacturing defects in the cover assembly.

At its discretion, Helix will either repair or replace mattresses with qualifying defects. The customer is responsible for shipping costs associated with repair and replacement, but Helix will reimburse up to $100 if it finds an eligible defect.