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.
Pocket springs are individually wrapped coil systems that are stitched into mattresses below a comfort layer of foam or other material. Unlike traditional innerspring systems that are interconnected, pocket springs are entirely independent allowing for added contour and pressure point relief than older innerspring models.
The general rule on pocket coil systems is the more coils, the more responsive and motion controlled the mattress is, while still providing support. This directly translates to more comfort.
In most pocket spring beds, there is a layer of memory foam or latex foam above the pocket spring array so that the sleeper gets both the benefits of contouring foam and the comfort of the pocket springs.
Pros: Durable materials and superior comfort to traditional innerspring systems.
Cons: Sleepers should be equally as interested in the foam that is wrapped around the coil system - if that is low quality, the bed still may be uncomfortable.
Overall Score:
Gel: 8.6/10
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10
Comfort:
Gel: 8.7/10
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10
Softness:
Gel: 8/10
Pocket Spring: 9.4/10
Cooling:
Gel: 8.1/10
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10
Hypoallergenic:
Gel: 8.1/10
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10
Odor:
Gel: 8.9/10
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10
General Support:
Gel: 9.5/10
Pocket Spring: 9.6/10
Eco-Conscious:
Gel: 8/10
Pocket Spring: 8.7/10
Price Value:
Gel: 9.2/10
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10
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