Coil spring (also called innerspring) mattresses use metal coils to provide resistance and support. Contemporary bedding use pocket coil systems that are entirely independent from each other so there are less pressure points. The rule of these new pocket coil systems is the more coils that are used, the more independent movement and response is in mattress.
Older coil spring mattresses, however, have one frame with coils interconnected to one another. Although this provides good support across the entire surface, and a longer durability life, there are comfort concerns about these mattresses.
Additionally, most coil spring mattresses have memory foam, latex, or some other type of bedding to provide a soft surface to sleep on.
Pros: Durable materials, and newer pocket coil systems provide comfortable support.
Cons: Older coil spring mattresses can cause more back pain and irritate pressure points.
Gel is a recent newcomer to the mattress space. It is being used as both a standalone layer and an infusion into foam. Gel benefits mattresses by retaining less heat than memory foam. Also, newer gels compete against memory foam by being more responsive and less toxic.
Gel is similar to foam because it is a polymer made by blending plastics and other chemicals.
Because of gel's heat diffusing properties, it is generally found in the top layer of the mattress under the cover.
Pros: Cooler sleeping surface vs memory foam. More responsive feel when not combined with foam.
Cons: Similar to foam, it is a synthetic blend of chemicals.
Overall Score:
Coil Spring: 9.3/10
Gel: 8.6/10
Comfort:
Coil Spring: 9.2/10
Gel: 8.7/10
Softness:
Coil Spring: 8.7/10
Gel: 8/10
Cooling:
Coil Spring: 9.6/10
Gel: 8.1/10
Hypoallergenic:
Coil Spring: 9.6/10
Gel: 8.1/10
Odor:
Coil Spring: 9.6/10
Gel: 8.1/10
General Support:
Coil Spring: 9.3/10
Gel: 9.5/10
Eco-Conscious:
Coil Spring: 9.6/10
Gel: 8.1/10
Price Value:
Coil Spring: 8.4/10
Gel: 9.2/10
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