Written by
Logan Foley, Certified Sleep Coach
We personally test every product featured in our reviews and guide to provide accurate, data-driven recommendations. Learn More
Our product recommendations are updated weekly in cases of ratings changes, product releases, and new testing insights.
Sleepfoundation.org is reader-supported. We may earn a commission through products purchased using links on this page. Learn more about our process here
Save 10% off your cart with code SF10
Casper is a well-known mattress-in-a-box manufacturer that has been making mattresses since 2014. The Element is the company’s most budget-friendly model. It has a medium firm feel that should appeal to many sleepers, especially those who want a pressure-relieving sleep surface at an approachable price-point.
In addition to the Element, Casper sells three other mattress models: the Original, the Wave Hybrid, and the Nova Hybrid. The Original is the company’s flagship model, and it is available in all-foam and hybrid versions. The Wave Hybrid and the Nova Hybrid are designed for more advanced support and cooling. Shoppers can also buy bed frames, pillows, linens, and sleep accessories directly from Casper.
We’ll take a thorough look at the Element’s value, construction, materials, and performance. We’ll also offer guidance on how sleep position preferences and body weight affect the Element’s feel to help you decide if this mattress is a good fit for your sleep habits.
Watch the video below to see how the Casper Element performed when put to the test in the Sleep Foundation Lab.
Foam mattresses typically excel at isolating motion, and the Element is no exception. Sleepers should experience minimal to no vibrations when sleeping on the Element, since the two polyfoam layers absorb movement rather than transfer it. This may be ideal for couples with different sleep schedules or those who toss and turn.
While some sleepers may prefer a more responsive model, people who prioritize motion isolation could find the Element particularly suitable.
Foam mattresses are well-known for their pressure-relieving capabilities, which the Element delivers. Its foam construction and medium firm feel help cushion the areas like the hips and shoulders, where pressure is most likely to build. Side sleepers and those with joint pain often find a pressure-relieving mattress beneficial.
The Element’s polyfoam comfort layer conforms closely to the sleeper’s body, providing a hugging sensation that helps alleviate pressure and redistribute weight. Sleepers who weigh under 230 pounds should experience the best pressure relief, as those who weigh more than 230 pounds may sink too deeply into the core for balanced pressure relief and support.
The Element offers above-average temperature control for a foam mattress, though it could still be too warm for some hot sleepers.
Casper uses its patented AirScape polyfoam in the comfort layer to combat heat retention. This material features thousands of perforated holes that create small channels through which hot air can escape. Hot sleepers who prefer a foam mattress may find this model suitable, though it won’t regulate temperature as well as many hybrid, latex, and innerspring models.
While the Element doesn’t have a reinforced perimeter, it fares better than many other all-foam models when it comes to edge support. Many sleepers should be able to use the mattress’ entire surface area without too much sagging because of its durable support core.
However, those who need extra support when getting in and out of bed and sleepers who weigh over 230 pounds may prefer a sturdier perimeter.
The Element isn’t as responsive as the average latex, innerspring, or hybrid mattress, though it is easier to move around on than many other all-foam models because it uses polyfoam rather than memory foam.
The polyfoam does not hug as closely to the body as memory foam, and it regains its shape more quickly when you change positions. This allows fairly easy movement. People who weigh less than 230 pounds are unlikely to feel restricted by the Element, though sleepers over 230 pounds could have more difficulty moving around.
The Element’s edge support and ease of movement lend themselves well to couples who want a mattress that’s functional for intimate activities. While the Element doesn’t have much bounce, it should provide good traction. Couples are also unlikely to sink too far into the layers, allowing for easier movement. Additionally, the Element’s all-foam construction is very quiet, allowing for discreet use.
The amount that the Element Mattress off-gasses is on par with many other all-foam mattresses. Most foam mattresses produce a chemical-like smell when decompressing due to the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This odor typically dissipates within a day or two.
Casper’s foams are CertiPUR-US certified, meaning they meet set emissions and content standards. However, sleepers who are sensitive to smells may want to unpack their mattress in a well-ventilated area and wait at least a day before use.
Casper Element Mattress
| Sleeper Type | Under 130 lbs | 130-230 lbs | Above 230 lbs |
|---|---|---|---|
 Side Sleepers
|
|||
 Back Sleepers
|
|||
 Stomach Sleepers
|
Side Sleepers: The Element closely conforms to the hips and shoulders of side sleepers, which helps alleviate pressure buildup. Side sleepers who weigh between 130 and 230 pounds may enjoy the best balance of cradling and support thanks to the model’s medium firm feel and polyfoam comfort system.
While sleepers who weigh under 130 pounds may still find the Element comfortable, it could be a bit too firm for some in this group. On the other hand, sleepers who weigh over 230 pounds are likely to benefit from a firmer mattress, as this model may be too soft to help them maintain good spinal alignment.
Back Sleepers: The Element’s medium firm feel is within the range preferred by many back sleepers. People who sleep on their backs typically benefit most from a mattress that offers even support. A mattress that’s too soft can allow a back sleeper’s midsection to sink in too far and make it difficult to maintain good posture, while one that’s too firm can create uncomfortable pressure points and lack support for the natural curvature of the lower back.
Back sleepers who weigh less than 230 pounds should enjoy a reasonable combination of pressure relief and support from the Element. The polyfoam core is supportive enough that sleepers in this weight range should feel like they’re sleeping on rather than in the mattress, which is what most back sleepers prefer. Additionally, the polyfoam comfort layer lets the hips sink in a little, cradling the sleeper’s lumbar region. However, sleepers who weigh more than 230 pounds are likely to find a firmer mattress more comfortable and supportive.
Stomach Sleepers: While the Element is comfortable for some stomach sleepers, many may need a firmer option to maintain their spinal alignment. Stomach sleeping is generally uncomfortable when a mattress doesn’t provide adequate support since the sleeper’s midsection can sink too deeply into the surface and undermine their posture.
For most stomach sleepers under 130 pounds, the medium firm feel of the Element supports the spine well and prevents the hips from sinking into the core. However, people who weigh more than 130 pounds may need a firmer model for sufficient midsection support.
The Casper Element is an all-foam mattress that features two polyfoam layers. It has a medium firm feel that ranks as a 6 out of 10 on the firmness scale, which is within the range preferred by most sleepers.
Its comfort system consists of a 3-inch layer of proprietary polyfoam called AirScape. This foam contours to the body to relieve pressure buildup. It’s also engineered to allow hot air to escape through tiny perforations. A 6.5-inch polyfoam core provides a stable base for the comfort system.
In total, the Element measures 10 inches thick, making it an average-profile mattress that should be compatible with most standard sheet sets. A cover made from a blend of polyester, upcycled cotton, rayon, and Lycra wraps the mattress.
The Casper Element has an all-foam construction with two layers of polyfoam. The comfort layer cushions the surface and enhances airflow, while the core provides support.
Polyester Blend
3” AirScape Polyfoam
6.5” Polyfoam
The Element is the most affordable mattress in Casper’s lineup. It has a budget-friendly price-point that should appeal to shoppers looking for an excellent value. Shoppers can purchase this model in six standard sizes, including California king.
| Sizes | Dimensions | Height | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Twin | 38” x 75” | 10” | 41 lbs. | $395 |
| Twin XL | 38” x 80” | 10” | 43 lbs. | $445 |
| Full | 53” x 75” | 10” | 57 lbs. | $545 |
| Queen | 60” x 80” | 10” | 68 lbs. | $595 |
| King | 76” x 80” | 10” | 87 lbs. | $795 |
| California King | 72” x 84” | 10” | 87 lbs. | $795 |
Casper sells the Element directly through its website and Amazon. This model is also available through select third-party retailers, including Target. People who prefer shopping at brick-and-mortar stores can see the Element in person at one of Casper’s storefronts or a partner location.
Shoppers who live in the contiguous U.S. and Canadian provinces qualify for free shipping on the Casper Element. Shipping is available for an additional fee to Hawaii, Alaska, Yukon, Nunavut, and the Northwest Territories. Casper ships via UPS, and customers typically receive their mattress within 3 to 9 business days.
The Element arrives compressed, wrapped in plastic, rolled, and sealed in a box. To set up your mattress, relocate the box to the room of your choice, unpackage the mattress from the box, unroll it, carefully remove the plastic, and allow the mattress to decompress.
Shoppers who live in the contiguous U.S. and Canadian provinces qualify for free shipping on the Casper Element. Shipping is available for an additional fee to Hawaii, Alaska, Yukon, Nunavut, and the Northwest Territories. Casper ships via UPS, and customers typically receive their mattress within 3 to 9 business days.
The Element arrives compressed, wrapped in plastic, rolled, and sealed in a box. To set up your mattress, relocate the box to the room of your choice, unpackage the mattress from the box, unroll it, carefully remove the plastic, and allow the mattress to decompress.
Shoppers in the contiguous U.S. and parts of Canada can pay an additional $149 fee for in-home setup and old mattress removal. Casper uses a partner service to deliver your mattress, set it up, and remove all packaging as well as your old mattress.
Shoppers who purchase directly from Casper qualify for a 100-night sleep trial that begins on the date of delivery. The new owner must try the Element for a minimum of 30 nights, after which they can return their mattress for a full refund of the purchase price. Returns are facilitated by Casper and carried out by a courier that removes your mattress. Your unwanted mattress will be donated or recycled if possible.
The Element carries a 10-year limited warranty that protects against certain defects, including indentations of more than 1 inch, cracks, and zipper defects. This warranty is non-transferable and does not apply to mattresses used for commercial purposes and those that have been abused, misused, or placed on an improper foundation. Additional terms and conditions also apply.
Certified Sleep Coach
Logan has extensive experience testing sleep products and producing sleep content. She is also a Certified Sleep Science Coach.
Interested in a Helix Mattress, but unsure of which to pick? Read our in-depth review to learn about Helix's unique…
Deciding which Helix Luxe model is right for you? Our review takes an in-depth look at all six so that…
We’ll review the performance of the GhostBed 3D Matrix Hybrid and the GhostBed 3D Matrix SmartBed to help you decide…
