Tuft & Needle vs. Saatva Mattress Comparison

Shopping for a mattress online is often more convenient than going to a brick and mortar store. Online mattress companies have simplified the shopping process, allowing customers to try out mattresses in the comfort of their homes. But with so many options to choose from, shoppers may be wondering where to start. Two popular mattress companies include Tuft & Needle and Saatva.

Both companies have disrupted the mattress industry in their own ways. Tuft & Needle set out to create a mattress in a box with a proprietary Adaptive foam blend that is conforming and durable. In 2018, Tuft & Needle partnered with Serta Simmons Bedding to expand its reach. The T&N product line now includes three mattress models: the T&N Original, the T&N Mint, and the T&N Hybrid, in addition to bedding and furniture.

Saatva manufactures luxury hybrid and innerspring models at a competitive price-point. Rather than mattress-in-a-box shipping, the company offers free White Glove delivery with each order. The company manufactures the Saatva Classic, the Saatva HD, and the Saatva Latex Hybrid, in addition to the Saatva Youth, a reversible innerspring designed for children 3 and older. The company offers additional models, including the Loom & Leaf Memory Foam Mattress, the Zenhaven Latex Mattress, and Solaire Adjustable Mattress. However, we’ll focus on models that carry the Saatva name.

We’ll take an in-depth look at Saatva vs. Tuft & Needle, including pricing, sizing, and performance ratings for their popular models. With a breakdown of each model’s firmness and construction, shoppers can determine which mattress best suits their needs. We’ll also include an overview of each company’s policies and other important considerations, so that shoppers can better understand the process of buying a mattress online.

Quick Look

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Sizing and Weight Options

There is more to selecting the right mattress size than one might expect. Shoppers should consider their bedroom size and layout, in addition to other needs. Those who share the bed often choose a queen size mattress or larger in order to sleep comfortably. Shoppers who are furnishing children’s bedrooms may opt for a twin or full size mattress. In addition to the standard mattress sizes available, shoppers should keep in mind the height and weight of the mattress.

The height of the mattress can determine how easy it is to get in and out of bed, especially for those with joint pain. Shoppers should consider the height of the bed frame in addition to the height of the mattress. The standard mattress height is considered to be 12 inches. Higher profiles typically need deep pocket fitted sheets. Lower profile mattresses tend to fit better in bunk beds and more compact spaces, like RVs.

Shoppers who plan on moving with the mattress may want to look for one that is lightweight. Many mattresses can weigh 100 pounds or more in a queen size, which makes them difficult to move or adjust without assistance. That said, a heavier mattress is more likely to stay in place on the bed frame.

Tuft & Needle offers its three models in all six standard mattress sizes. Saatva offers two height options and six standard sizes for the Saatva Classic, as well as a split king and split California king for couples with adjustable beds. The Saatva HD and Saatva Latex Hybrid are also available in a split king, but not split California king. The Saatva Youth, geared toward children, is the most limited Saatva model in terms of size availability.

Both companies offer multiple options rather than taking a one size fits all approach. Producing different size and height options ensures there is a mattress for every shopper. Additionally, each model differs in the materials and construction used. Thicker layers result in a higher profile.

Both the Saatva HD and the Saatva Youth are targeted towards specific audiences. The Saatva HD is designed for sleepers who weigh more than 230 pounds. Its high profile and thick layers offer ample support for these sleepers. The Saatva Youth is constructed for children ages 3 and older, so it is only produced in smaller mattress sizes.

Tuft & Needle offers both foam and hybrid mattresses with standard profiles. The foam T&N models are lighter in weight. Shoppers should keep in mind that the T&N Hybrid, Saatva Classic, Saatva HD, and Saatva Latex Hybrid all weigh more than 100 pounds in a queen size.

Construction and Materials Comparison

When comparing mattresses, it is important to understand the construction of each mattress and what materials are used. This helps shoppers determine if the mattress will meet their expectations in terms of durability, comfort, and support.

Generally speaking, there are four popular mattress types. These include foam, latex, hybrid, and airbed models. The mattress type is determined by the materials used in the comfort layers and support core of the mattress.

Foam mattresses are made with layers of memory foam and/or polyfoam. High-density foam is considered to be more durable than low-density foam, as it resists sagging and deep impressions over time.

Latex mattresses can be made with natural or synthetic latex, or a blend of the two. Natural latex is harvested sap from rubber trees that is processed using the Dunlop or Talalay method. Natural latex is considered to be especially durable.

Hybrid and airbed mattresses use foam and/or latex in the comfort layers. Hybrid mattresses have a pocketed coil support core. Airbeds use air chambers as the support base. The durability of these mattress models is determined by the materials used in the comfort layers, in addition to the construction of the support core.

Tuft & Needle produces foam and hybrid models. Saatva produces innerspring and hybrid models, which we’ll cover here, in addition to its all-foam, latex, and airbed mattresses.

Tuft & Needle

Tuft & Needle uses a proprietary foam in its mattresses. T&N Adaptive foam contours to the shape of the body for pressure relief, but springs back to its original shape quickly when pressure is removed. This makes it easier to move around on the mattress surface.

The foam has an open-cell structure for added airflow and better temperature regulation. Additionally, it is infused with graphite and ceramic gel beads. This helps the foam prevent heat retention and wick away moisture.

Tuft & Needle produces three models: the T&N Original, the T&N Hybrid, and the T&N Mint.

The T&N Original

The Tuft & Needle Original is a 10-inch foam mattress constructed of two layers. The micro polyamide and polyester blend cover is soft and breathable.

The first layer is 3 inches of T&N Adaptive foam. The mattress is considered to be medium firm (6). This layer moderately conforms to the shape of the body. The ceramic gel beads help cushion pressure points and reduce tension. The T&N Original regulates temperature better than the average foam mattress.

The support core of the Original mattress is 7 inches of polyfoam. This open-cell support foam encourages airflow throughout the mattress. It also provides even, consistent support for sleepers.

The T&N Hybrid

The Tuft & Needle Hybrid is a 12-inch mattress with six layers. It is softer than the T&N Original, with a medium (5) rating. It has a breathable micro polyamide and polyester cover.

The first layer of the T&N Hybrid is 1 inch of carbon fiber and graphite infused polyfoam quilted with the cover. This pillow-top cradles the body.

Beneath the quilted pillow-top is 2 inches of T&N Adaptive foam engineered for pressure relief. The third layer is 1 inch of tempered steel micro-coils for support. Another layer of T&N Adaptive foam sits between the micro-coils and pocketed coil base.

The 6-inch support core of pocketed coils has tempered steel coils for better edge support. This layer increases airflow and helps dissipate heat. A 1-inch layer of polyfoam reinforces the coils.

The T&N Mint

The Tuft & Needle Mint is the brand’s high-end foam mattress. It has a 12-inch profile constructed with three layers of foam. Like the T&N Original, it has a medium firm (6) rating. The charcoal grey cover is light and breathable and features an antimicrobial protectant embedded in the fabric. Unique to the Mint, the top half of the cover can be zipped off and machine washed.

The comfort system of the T&N Mint includes two layers of enhanced T&N Adaptive foam. The first layer is engineered for better temperature regulation with 30% more graphite. The second layer includes 30% more ceramic gel beads, which are designed to help the foam cradle the body. The thicker comfort system provides better pressure relief for the shoulders and hips.

The 7-inch support core of polyfoam has reinforced edge support. This includes 4 inches of extra-firm foam around the perimeters.

Saatva

Saatva mattresses are designed to cushion pressure points while supporting the spine. Available models include the Saatva Classic, the Saatva HD, the Saatva Latex Hybrid, and the Saatva Youth. In the Saatva Classic and Saatva HD, a Euro-top is incorporated for added plushness.

The Saatva Classic

The Saatva Classic is an innerspring mattress available in two height options: 11.5 inches or 14.5 inches. Both have the same overall construction, but differ in the height of the support core coils. The mattress is available in three firmness options: soft (3), medium firm (6), and firm (8).

The knit organic cotton cover of the Saatva Classic is designed to increase airflow and helps wick away moisture. The Euro-top includes sewn-in material. In the soft and medium firm options, this includes 1.25 inches of soft polyfoam and .75 inches of fiberfill. In the firm option, there is 1.5 inches of polyfoam and 0.75 inches of polyfoam. The Euro-top is treated to be antimicrobial.

Beneath the Euro-top is a .625-inch layer of polyfoam and a .375-inch memory foam pad for lumbar support. The Saatva Classic has a coil on coil design, with 4 inches of foam-encased, pocketed coils on top of 4 or 7 inches of hourglass coils. A fiber pad reinforces the coils, and a foam perimeter adds edge support.

The Saatva HD

The Saatva HD is constructed to better support sleepers who weigh more than 230 pounds. The mattress has a 15.5-inch profile and firm (7) rating.

The organic cotton cover of the Saatva HD includes an antimicrobial treatment. The quilted Euro-top is engineered to cushion the body while resisting deep impressions.

The comfort system of the Saatva HD includes 1.5 inches of Talalay latex with five zones for targeted support. This layer is buoyant and breathable. It contours to the shape of the body. Beneath the latex layer is 1.5 inches of memory foam for additional contouring and pressure relief.

A transition layer of polyfoam sits between the comfort system and support core of offset coils. The coils have a polyfoam encasement for increased edge support, making it easier to get in and out of bed.

Saatva Latex Hybrid

The Saatva Latex Hybrid is constructed with a Talalay latex comfort layer and a pocketed coil support core. The mattress has a medium firm (6) feel and a very responsive, bouncy surface.

The mattress sleeps quite cool, as well. The latex is ventilated with small holes to promote airflow near the surface while the coils circulate air throughout the interior to maintain a comfortable core temperature. The mattress is also encased in an organic cotton cover that is quite breathable.

The bed’s support core is zoned. Thicker coils are located along the perimeter to provide push-back and reduce sinkage when people sit or sleep near the edges. Thinner coils beneath the sleep surface deliver more comfortable cradling for the sleeper’s body.

The organic cotton cover and organic wool fire barrier have both received certifications from the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), a leading authority in the certification of these types of materials.

Saatva Youth

The Saatva Youth is an innerspring mattress with a reversible construction. It is designed with growing kids in mind. The mattress has a medium (5) side and firm (7) side. It has a 10-inch profile consisting of three layers.

On the medium side of the mattress is zoned polyfoam. This layer is firmer in the center to help promote spinal alignment, and softer at the head and feet. The firm side consists of convoluted high-density polyfoam.

The support core of the Saatva Youth is in the center of the mattress. It consists of reversible Bonnell coils. The coils encourage steady airflow and provide excellent edge support.

In-Depth Ratings

It is easy to be distracted by certain features or marketing when shopping for a mattress. Understanding the following aspects and features can help shoppers narrow down their search and find the best fit.

Shoppers should consider what they want most from a mattress. For some, it may be temperature regulation. Others may prioritize motion isolation or pressure relief. All of these factors directly affect how comfortable a mattress is, and whether or not it will suit a shopper’s individual needs.

Durability
The lifespan of a mattress refers to how long it provides even, consistent support. This is determined by how durable the mattress is. Certain materials are more durable than others. Natural latex and high-density polyfoam are generally durable materials that extend the lifespan of a mattress.

Low-density foam is more likely to develop deep impressions or indentations over time. If the mattress has a coil support core, tempered steel tends to be more durable. A reinforced perimeter can prevent sagging along the edges. Durability is an important consideration for most shoppers, as it provides a valuable return on their investment.

Motion Isolation
Motion isolation refers to how well the mattress absorbs movements and prevents them from transferring to other areas. Sleepers who share the bed may prioritize motion isolation when shopping for a new mattress, as it reduces the likelihood of sleep disturbances.

Memory foam is typically highly rated in terms of motion isolation, as it absorbs pressure and is slow to return to its original shape when pressure is removed. Coils are more likely to transfer movements, but this can be minimized with fabric encasements and foam layers.

Sex
Certain mattress types are more conducive to sex than others. A mattress that has bounce can help facilitate movement. This makes it easier to change positions during amorous activity. Hybrid mattresses are often highly rated in this category, as the coils add bounce and support to the mattress.

Foam can provide traction for changing positions, but if it conforms too closely it can restrict movement. Couples should also consider how much edge support the mattress has, and if the mattress makes noise when bearing weight.

Temperature Neutrality
A mattress that maintains a temperature neutral feel can provide comfort for sleepers. Some materials tend to absorb and retain body heat, which can be uncomfortable for hot sleepers. Other materials are more breathable and help dissipate heat. Those who tend to sleep hot may want to opt for a cooling mattress. These mattresses often incorporate phase change materials, thermal conductive gel, and/or aerated and coil layers for ample airflow.

Pressure Relief
A mattress can relieve tension throughout the body and prevent pressure points from developing. The firmness of the mattress, and how closely it conforms to the shape of the body, can determine the amount of pressure relief it provides. Latex and memory foam are often used in comfort layers for contouring and pressure relief. While pressure relief in a mattress is important for most sleepers, those with arthritis or joint pain may be especially concerned with this aspect.

Off-gassing
Off-gassing refers to the initial odor caused by the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This is often the result of the materials and manufacturing processes used. It is most common in foam mattresses. This smell is not considered to be harmful, but may bother those who are sensitive to odors. Most off-gassing dissipates within a few days. It is generally less common in mattresses made with natural materials and CertiPUR-US certified foams.

Ease of Movement
How easy it is to move around on the mattress is determined by the materials used in its construction. Mattresses with buoyant comfort layers and coil support cores are often highly rated for ease of movement. These mattresses have ample bounce to facilitate changing positions. This aspect is a key consideration for combination sleepers who change positions throughout the night. It can also affect how conducive the mattress is for sex.

Edge Support
Edge support refers to how well the perimeter of the mattress holds up under pressure. Mattresses with stable edges have more usable surface area. Proper edge support makes it easier to get in and out of bed, since the edges do not compress easily. This also prevents sagging over time. Hybrid mattresses often have a reinforced perimeter for better edge support.

Tuft & Needle

Saatva

Prices and Sizing

Mattress pricing is often determined by the materials and construction used. It is also affected by where the mattress is manufactured. Certain mattress types tend to be more affordable than others, though each category typically has budget and luxury options available.

The complexity of construction should be considered, as mattresses made with multiple layers and proprietary materials are typically more expensive. The size of the mattress can impact the price, as it is more expensive to produce a larger mattress.

Online mattress companies often keep their prices low by shipping directly to the consumer. This reduces overhead costs for the company by cutting out any middlemen. There are also frequent sales and promotions to incentivize shoppers.

Another factor to consider when comparing mattress prices is the cost of shipping. Many online companies offer free standard shipping, but some charge an extra fee for White Glove delivery or shipping outside of the contiguous United States.

Tuft & Needle

Saatva

When comparing the prices of Saatva vs. Tuft & Needle, the T&N Original and Mint mattresses are the most affordable options. These two mattresses are both foam models, so they are less expensive to produce than the hybrid options available.

The T&N Hybrid is slightly more expensive than the Saatva Classic. The T&N Hybrid uses a proprietary foam blend in its comfort system. The Saatva Classic has a plush Euro-top. In general, the Saatva Classic is more affordable than most luxury hybrid models.

The Saatva HD is the most expensive option. It has the highest profile of the available Saatva and T&N mattresses. It is designed with durable materials and provides ample support for sleepers who weigh more than 230 pounds. The Saatva Latex Hybrid’s price-point is lower than the Saatva HD’s, but it is more expensive than the Saatva Classic, making it a good mid-range option. The Saatva Youth is an affordable mattress for families.

Both companies produce high-quality mattresses at accessible price-points. Shoppers should keep in mind that Saatva offers free White Glove delivery and old mattress removal, while Tuft & Needle provides free standard shipping.

Trials, Warranty, and Delivery

Each mattress company differs when it comes to the fine print. Understanding the process for shipping, returns, and warranty claims is an important part of comparing mattresses before making a purchase.

Shipping

Many mattress companies ship their mattresses using the mattress-in-a-box method. This involves compressing the mattress, vacuum-sealing it, and shipping it rolled up in a standard size box. This allows shipping companies to deliver the mattress to the customer’s doorstep. The mattress can then be moved into the bedroom, unboxed, and allowed to fully expand. Standard shipping is often free.

Another shipping option is White Glove delivery. This method includes a delivery team that delivers and sets up the mattress for the customer. This service often has the option to add on old mattress removal. White Glove delivery is usually available for an additional charge. Available shipping options can vary depending on the delivery location.

Saatva Shipping Policy

Saatva provides free White Glove delivery within the contiguous United States. This service includes old mattress removal. Shipping to Alaska and Hawaii is not currently available, but in certain circumstances Saatva can refer customers in these states to logistic companies for transport.

Saatva mattresses are made to order. While expedited delivery options are not available, Saatva can sometimes process an order faster by reconsigning a cancelled or revised order.

Tuft & Needle Shipping Policy

Tuft & Needle offers free standard shipping within the contiguous United States. Shipping to Alaska and Hawaii is available for an additional charge. Same day delivery is offered in Phoenix, Austin, and Los Angeles for an additional $50 charge. T&N ships each mattress shrink wrapped and compressed in a box. Orders are typically delivered within 3 to 7 business days.

White Glove Delivery is available within the contiguous United States for a $150 charge. This service includes old mattress removal.

Returns

Online mattress companies usually take into consideration that the customer cannot try out the mattress prior to purchasing. Mattresses purchased online often include a sleep trial, ranging from a few months to a year long, that gives purchasers the opportunity to test the mattress in their homes. The sleep trial may include a break-in period before a return can be initiated.

Return policies differ between companies, but many offer free returns. Since mattresses delivered using the mattress-in-a-box shipping method cannot be returned to their original packaging, most companies help coordinate pickup and donation or recycling of the mattress.

Saatva Return Policy

Saatva mattresses include a 365-night sleep trial. There is no mandatory break-in period. If the customer initiates a return during the sleep trial, Saatva coordinates pickup and donation of the mattress. A refund is issued to the customer, less a $99 return transportation fee.

Tuft & Needle Return Policy

Tuft & Needle provides a 100-night sleep trial. There is no mandatory break-in period. In the event of a return, Tuft & Needle helps coordinate the pickup and donation of the mattress and issues a full refund. There are no return fees.

Warranties

A warranty can provide peace of mind for customers. It shows that the mattress company stands behind its products, and will repair or replace a defective mattress. Warranties may provide coverage for five to ten years or longer. Some companies offer lifetime coverage.

In addition to length of coverage, customers should consider what qualifies as a defect. Most warranties cover defects in material and manufacturing, but do not offer repair or replacement in the event of normal wear and tear. Customers may be responsible for shipping charges.

Saatva Warranty 

Saatva offers a lifetime warranty for all mattresses. In the first two years of the warranty, Saatva will replace a defective mattress at no cost. Beginning in year 3, Saatva will repair a defective mattress. The customer is responsible for a $149 transportation fee.

For all warranties, Saatva offers the Fairness Replacement Option. Under this plan, owners can replace their mattress beginning in year three by paying a certain percentage of the original price-point; this percentage will gradually increase until the warranty expires. This plan also allows owners to keep the original mattress at no extra cost.

Tuft & Needle Warranty

Tuft & Needle protects its mattresses with a ten-year warranty. This covers defects in materials and manufacturing. In the event of a defect, Tuft & Needle will repair or replace the mattress. There are no charges associated with a warranty claim.