Open Coil vs. Pocket Spring

Open Coil

Open coil mattresses are also called traditional innerspring mattresses. They have interconnected coils in a metal mesh that provide even support across the mattress surface.

Many open coil systems use hour glass shaped springs in their interconnected systems so that the evenness is distributed from the top to bottom.

Though this system is good at providing even support, there are complaints of aggravated pressure points and discomfort with open coil systems.

Pros: Durable materials and traditional even feel.

Cons: Pressure point discomfort and motion transfer issues.

Pocket Spring

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.

Learn More About Open Coil

Learn More About Pocket Spring

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Material Scores

Overall Score:
Open Coil: 8.7/10
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10

Comfort:
Open Coil: 8.7/10
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10

Softness:
Open Coil: 8.4/10
Pocket Spring: 9.4/10

Cooling:
Open Coil: 9.5/10
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10

Hypoallergenic:
Open Coil: 9.4/10
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10

No Odor:
Open Coil: 9.4/10
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10

General Support:
Open Coil: 8.9/10
Pocket Spring: 9.6/10

Eco-Conscious:
Open Coil: 8.7/10
Pocket Spring: 8.7/10

Price Value:
Open Coil: 8.4/10
Pocket Spring: 8.4/10