Side-by-side mattress testing · 144+ comparisons published
Quick Specs Comparison
Manufacturer Specs Compared
Figures each brand publishes on its own product page. Values a brand does not publish show as "Not published".
| Spec | Nectar | Purple |
|---|---|---|
| Profile height | 12" | 13.5" |
| Layers published | 3 | 4 |
| Cover material | Polyester-blend cover with polyethylene cooling fibres | Polyester (67%), viscose (29%) and Lycra stretch cover |
| Coil count | Not published | Not published |
| Coil gauge | Not published | Not published |
| Zoning | Not published | Not published |
| Foam density | Not published | Not published |
| Fire barrier | Not published | Not published |
| Certifications | CertiPUR-US | Not published |
| Made in | Assembled in Jeffersonville, IN, USA | Made in Utah, USA |
| Queen dimensions | 60" W x 80" L x 12" H | Not published |
| Queen weight | 70 lbs (filling material) | Not published |
Sources: Nectar official page · Purple official page
Key Advantages
Why Choose Nectar
- $850 cheaper at Queen — best value in category
- 365-night risk-free trial
- Deep memory foam hug for pressure relief
Why Choose Purple
- GelFlex Grid is the coolest non-active mattress on market
- Responsive feel — no "stuck in foam" sensation
- Try in Purple showrooms nationwide
Lab Verdict
Purple held heat-neutral better than the Nectar (2.5°F surface rise vs. 3.3°F). Couples should note that the Nectar dampened motion more aggressively (0.06g peak vs. 0.09g). Pressure mapping put both beds well under the 32 mmHg capillary-closure threshold for side sleepers. Perimeter compression was nearly identical — neither bed is the obvious pick on edge support alone. Purple returned more energy on rebound (58% vs. 40%), favoring combo sleepers.
| Metric | Nectar | Purple | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cooling (60-min Δ°F) | 3.3°F | 2.5°F | Purple |
| Motion isolation (g) | 0.06g | 0.09g | Tie |
| Edge sinkage | 2.1" | 2" | Purple |
| Shoulder pressure (mmHg) | 29 mmHg | 29 mmHg | Tie |
| Response time (s) | 1.2s | 0.6s | Purple |
| Off-gassing | 1 days | 2 days | Nectar |
Median of 3 trials, 68°F climate-controlled lab. DH/KW / NL/KW · scoring vv2.1.
In-Depth Analysis
Purple and Nectar represent opposite ends of the mattress philosophy spectrum. Purple is about innovation and unique materials at premium prices; Nectar is about proven memory foam comfort at the lowest possible price.
Purple's GelFlex Grid eliminates pressure points through a completely different mechanism than foam. Instead of slowly conforming, the grid instantly flexes under concentrated weight. The sensation is 'floating' rather than 'sinking,' and the 1,400+ air channels provide exceptional cooling.
Nectar's traditional memory foam delivers deep, enveloping comfort that millions of sleepers know and love. The slow conforming creates that classic 'hugging' sensation, and the motion isolation is excellent for couples.
The price gap is enormous — Purple Hybrid Premier at $1,999 versus Nectar at $699. That's $1,300 more for Purple. Is it worth it? For hot sleepers who hate memory foam's heat retention, absolutely. For everyone else, Nectar's value proposition is hard to argue against.
Our Verdict
Purple is unmatched for cooling and unique pressure relief. Nectar delivers excellent value with classic comfort. The $1,300 price gap means Nectar wins for most buyers unless cooling is your primary concern.
Buying Advice
Choose Purple if you sleep hot, dislike memory foam's heat, and can afford the premium
Choose Nectar if value matters most, you enjoy classic memory foam feel, and cooling isn't critical
Try Purple in-store before buying — the unique feel isn't for everyone