What is the difference between memory foam and hybrid mattresses?
Memory foam and hybrid mattresses have different constructions; while memory foam mattresses have a pure foam construction, hybrids have memory foam and a sprung system that balances both technologies.
Whether a hybrid is better is a matter of preference — it depends on how you like your bed to feel and whether you prioritise cushioning or support.
What is a memory foam mattress?
A memory foam mattress is made from at least 80% memory foam. Memory foam is available in different densities, and it can be paired with latex foam and reflex foams, which are bouncier to provide a more traditional mattress feel.
Memory foam is a fantastic choice if you like to sink into a mattress like it’s a cloud – no other mattress technology replicates this sensation.
Breathable versions of memory foam are recommended to improve airflow. For example, the Mlily Bamboo has breathable memory foam.
Pictured:Mlily Bamboo 4FT 6 Double Mattress, Available from Bedstar. The Online Bed Superstore.
The case for memory foam
Memory foam mattresses are dense and supportive, delivering supreme body contouring and support. The denseness of the foam means memory foam mattresses often feel firmer than hybrid mattresses.
Another benefit to a memory foam mattress is it isolates movement better because there are no springs that can transfer energy. If you are heavy, this benefit is massive because it improves bedtime comfort for your partner.
Memory foam advantages
- Body contouring
- Energy absorbent
- Best cushioning
- Firmer feel
- Highly supportive
Memory foam disadvantages
- Heavy
- Less breathable
- The quicksand effect makes some people anxious
Cost and availability
Memory foam mattresses are less expensive than hybrids because they are easier to manufacture. However, you can still pay thousands of pounds for high-end memory foam, especially when the mattress is over 30cm thick.
Memory foam mattresses feel firmer than hybrids, so you usually see them in medium-firm and firm varieties, but you can also get them in a medium firmness.
What is a hybrid mattress?
A hybrid mattress uses a compact spring system and foam layers. The compact spring system delivers bounce and support, while the comfort layers provide cushioning. Hybrids are less dense and more cloud-like than foam mattresses.
Hybrids can use open coil or pocket spring systems. In either case, the spring system is more compact than the springs in traditional mattresses.
Open coils are cheaper but offer good support with less durability, while pocket springs are more expensive with the best support and a longer lifespan.
The case for hybrid
Pictured: Sleepeezee Hybrid 2000 Zip & Link. , Available from Bedstar. The Online Bed Superstore.
Hybrid mattresses have more give than foam mattresses because there is an air gap between the springs and the base, and this creates a cushioning and bouncing effect that you do not get with a pure foam mattress.
Hybrid mattresses also have superior edge support because the edges are reinforced, improving comfort for edge sleepers. Another benefit is breathability because the different density foams and spring systems improve airflow.
Hybrid advantages
- More give
- Bouncy yet cushioned
- Breathable
- Edge support
- Available in softer feels
Hybrid disadvantages
- Less contouring
- More energy transfer
- Higher price tag (especially with mattress-in-a-box brands)
Cost and availability
Hybrid mattresses are more expensive than memory foam mattresses, with trendy mattress-in-a-box brands commanding a premium. However, you can pick up some great hybrid mattresses for under £400, like the Sleepsoul Balance.
Pictured: Sleepsoul Balance 800 Pocket Memory 4FT 6 Double Mattress. Available from Bedstar. The Online Bed Superstore.
You can get soft-medium and medium hybrid mattresses and medium-firm and firm varieties in terms of firmness. The firmer a hybrid gets, the less pleasant it is to sleep on due to the thinner comfort layers. Memory foam is better for firmness.
Overall
Memory foam mattresses have a quicksand sensation, sucking you into the mattress and providing ultimate body contouring. With a hybrid mattress, you sleep more on top of it, and the spring system provides better support in softer feels.
Both mattresses are an excellent choice, but memory foam is better for a firm mattress, and hybrid technology is better for soft-medium to medium feels. We recommend you try both (if possible) before committing to a purchase.
