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Our Nectar vs. Tuft and Needle Comparison for 2024

Responsive layers that adapt or classic memory foam comfort? That describes the showdown between the two mattresses we’re comparing, the Nectar Memory Foam vs. the Tuft and Needle Original. 

The Nectar promises that traditional “sink in” memory foam feel that wraps around your body like a comforting hug. Alternatively, the Tuft and Needle Original offers an adaptive foam that allows you to reposition easily while not disrupting your partner. 

Each one has all-foam construction for sleepers that aren’t fond of coils or springs, but which one will best suit your sleeping needs? Read on to find out if you’re a classic memory foam enthusiast or a next-gen foam lover.

Product
Firmness
Trial Period
Nectar Mattress
Nectar Mattress
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
365 nights
tuft & needle original mattress
Tuft & Needle Mattress
Medium: 5/10
100 nights
Nectar Mattress
Product
Nectar Mattress
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
tuft & needle original mattress
Product
Tuft & Needle Mattress
Firmness
Medium: 5/10
Trial Period
100 nights

Nectar Mattress

Nectar Mattress

Nectar offers the deeper hug of a traditional memory foam bed but with updated cooling and a Forever warranty.

Score 4.0/5
Read Nectar Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE

Material

Foam

Trial Period

365 nights

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6.5/10

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Watch Our Video Review

Nectar Mattress

Nectar Mattress

Nectar offers the deeper hug of a traditional memory foam bed but with updated cooling and a Forever warranty.

Score 4.0/5
Read Nectar Mattress Review

Material

Foam

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6.5/10

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Trial Period

365 nights

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Watch Our Video Review
Nectar Mattress

Nectar Mattress

Nectar offers the deeper hug of a traditional memory foam bed but with updated cooling and a Forever warranty.

Score 4.0/5
Read Nectar Mattress Review

Material

Foam

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6.5/10

Trial Period

365 nights

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Watch Our Video Review

Who I’d Recommend the Nectar For

  • People seeking pressure relief – The CertiPUR-US® foams in Nectar offer the ideal balance of support and sink-in comfort for a gentle cradle that isn’t too firm.

  • Individuals who love classic memory foam – If you love the feeling of memory foam gently hugging your body as you nestle in, this mattress can give you that traditional memory foam sensation.

  • Value seekers – Quality materials at affordable prices combined with offers like a 365-day risk-free trial means you can shop confidently, knowing you’ll have plenty of time to get a feel for the mattress and determine if it’s right for you.

Tuft & Needle Mattress

tuft & needle original mattress

This model should be a great option for most bargain shoppers who value quality.

Score 4.0/5
Read Tuft & Needle Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE

Material

Foam

Trial Period

100 nights

Shipping Method

Free shipping minus HI and AK

Firmness

Medium: 5/10

Warranty

10-year limited warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.6/5
Watch Our Video Review

Tuft & Needle Mattress

tuft & needle original mattress

This model should be a great option for most bargain shoppers who value quality.

Score 4.0/5
Read Tuft & Needle Mattress Review

Material

Foam

Warranty

10-year limited warranty

Firmness

Medium: 5/10

Shipping Method

Free shipping minus HI and AK

Trial Period

100 nights

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.6/5
Watch Our Video Review
tuft & needle original mattress

Tuft & Needle Mattress

This model should be a great option for most bargain shoppers who value quality.

Score 4.0/5
Read Tuft & Needle Mattress Review

Material

Foam

Firmness

Medium: 5/10

Trial Period

100 nights

Warranty

10-year limited warranty

Shipping Method

Free shipping minus HI and AK

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.6/5
Watch Our Video Review

Who I’d Recommend the Tuft and Needle Original For

  • People who frequently change sleep positions – Thanks to this bed’s adaptive top layer, you should be able to easily move across the mattress or adjust positions as needed.

  • Those worried about disrupting their partners – Responsive foam that’s also excellent at motion isolation should keep both partners sleeping peacefully.

  • Individuals who are material-conscious – Though it’s not organic, Tuft and Needle strives to eliminate unnecessary layers, reduce glue and adhesives, and cut down on chemicals.

Comparing Nectar vs Tuft and Needle Original: Top Similarities

  • All-foam mattresses – Both mattresses are constructed entirely from foam without coils or springs.
  • Support – Each bed offers a medium firmness, ranging from a 5 (T&N) to a 6.5 (Nectar).
  • Composed of multiple layers – Each mattress has a firmer base layer covered by a versatile upper layer for a balanced support system. In the case of Nectar, though, this bed has two foam units above the base.

Comparing Nectar vs Tuft and Needle Original: Key Differences

  • Materials – Unlike Nectar, the Tuft and Needle is not a memory foam mattress. Rather, it is composed of proprietary T&N Adaptive® Foam and poly foam.
  • Construction – Nectar features three foam layers while the T&N only has two, making the Nectar mattress slightly taller.
  • Feel – Nectar’s memory foam provides the classic, slow sink-in comfort, while T&N’s adaptive foam offers responsiveness for those who switch positions.

Comparing Firmness, Support & Feel

Firmness

Our firmness scale ranges from 1 to 10, with 1 being extraordinarily soft and 10 the absolute firmest. Nectar comes in at a 6.5, while Tuft and Needle scores a 5, making the Tuft & Needle the more plush option of the two. Both mattresses are considered to have a medium level of firmness, which means they have a more versatile feel to accommodate more sleepers.

Support

T&N’s base layer is constructed from firmer poly foam, whereas the top layer is softer and provides excellent balance for back sleeping. Still, it may be too soft for heavier side sleepers and stomach sleepers.

Nectar has a base layer of conventional foam topped by layers of conventional soft foam and gel-infused memory foam. The combination allows your body to easily transition from comforting memory foam to a supportive base. Though it’s accommodating for almost all positions, heavier stomach sleepers may require more support.

Feel

Tuft & Needle’s breathable polyester cover is soft and fast-drying, and its top layer feels quick-responding. Combined with the lower layer, it provides a balanced feel. While you won’t notice as much cradling, it should still allow you to sink in.

On the other hand, Nectar gives you that classic cradle that’s synonymous with memory foam. However, it may take a few nights to soften fully. Nectar uses a heat-wicking cover that maximizes the effects of the cooling gel infused into the top layer.

Comparing Sinkage and Bounce

The top layers in these beds offer differing experiences. Gel-infused memory foam on the Nectar allows you to fully sink in, yet those who change position frequently may find it restrictive. On the contrary, Tuft and Needle’s responsive top layer prevents a crater from forming around your body, allowing you to switch sleeping positions easily.

When it comes to bounce, T&N has the upper hand. Their adaptive top layer fosters buoyancy, whereas Nectar’s memory foam tends to prohibit it. Lack of bounce may be a drawback for those with mobility issues or couples who are sexually active and prefer bounce over sinkage.


Comparing Motion Transfer

Although Tuft & Needle’s top layer is crafted to be responsive, that doesn’t mean it transfers movement. As a foam mattress, it meets industry standards for motion isolation. As a result, it reduces the likelihood that partners who change position will disrupt one another in their sleep.

Nectar’s all-foam construction makes it great at preventing motion transfer. The memory foam layer cradles your body, so it tends to be more motion-suppressing than T&N’s mattress. The gel-infused foam top, coupled with a supportive base, isolates motion to prevent waking your partner when you toss or turn. This makes it ideal for couples or those who sleep with kids or pets.


Comparing Cooling

T&N’s top foam layer is infused with cooling gel to relieve hot sleepers. Additionally, graphite in the foam helps to wick away heat. A breathable polyester cover helps to reduce heat and moisture further. For most, this results in excellent temperature regulation.

Like T&N, Nectar has cooling gel in its top layer. The gel is essential because memory foam mattresses are susceptible to overheating due to a lack of airflow. Heat-wicking technology in the cover further helps prevent a hot sleeping experience. However, it’s important to note that these mattresses are entirely constructed of foam, meaning they will tend to run hotter than an innerspring or hybrid model.

For More Information: Top Rated Cooling Mattresses

Comparing Construction (Materials & Quality)

Nectar Construction

The Nectar Memory Foam is a 12-inch tall mattress divided into three foam layers. The Nectar’s cover is made from polyethylene and a polyester/nylon blend, featuring a circular knit pattern and heat-wicking technology.

  • Below the cover you’ll find a 2-inch gel-infused memory foam layer. The gel helps to reduce heat. Quilted to the cover, this layer is soft and plush, allowing the memory foam to contour to your body.
  • The center unit is crafted from 3 inches of conventional soft foam. This layer is slightly firmer than the top one but softer than the base, creating a smooth transition from cradle to support. Additionally, it’s ideal when you need to reposition and further helps reduce pressure points.
  • The bottom is 7 inches of firmer conventional foam that acts as a foundation, preventing sleepers from bottoming out and helping to provide stability and durability.

Tuft and Needle Original Construction

The Tuft and Needle mattress only has two foam layers compared to the Nectar’s three, and it stands a little shorter, coming in at 10 inches high as opposed to 12. A soft and breathable cover is the first thing you’ll notice. The knitted top cover extends to form a sag-reducing and durable bottom cover.

  • Underneath the cover is 3 inches of proprietary T&N Adaptive® Foam in a Euro top design. Complete with graphite and cooling gel; it looks as sleek as it feels.
  • The base layer is 7 inches of firm poly foam. This foam base helps to keep the mattress stable and increases durability while offering support to sleepers. As mentioned, this foam is much firmer than the top, so it won’t allow bottoming out for most sleepers, and its open-cell technology keeps it responsive and flexible.

Comparing Company Policies & Price

  • Warranty – Tuft & Needle offers a limited 10-year warranty as opposed to Nectar’s forever warranty, which is only effective for the original purchaser.
  • Shipping – Both companies offer free shipping within the United States. Note that Nectar will ship to Hawaii and Alaska for an additional charge. Also, Nectar’s optional white glove delivery and mattress removal are available for an extra fee.
  • Trial Period – Nectar is more generous with their trial period, offering 365 nights where you can try out the mattress risk-free. If you’re unhappy in any way, return it for a full refund. On the other hand, T&N offers sleepers a 100-night trial that should result in a full refund and mattress donation to charity if you’re unsatisfied.
  • Returns – In the contiguous United States, Nectar owners can return their mattresses for free. Those in Alaska and Hawaii will incur a delivery fee. T&N customers will need to contact a Tuft & Needle support representative regarding returns.
  • Price – The Tuft & Needle is priced lower than the Nectar.

SizeNectar Price (w/o discount)Tuft & Needle Price (w/o discount)
Tuft$599$450
Twin XL$769$495
Full$899$595
Queen$999$695
King$1,299$850
Cali King$1,299$850
Split King$1,538

Nectar vs. Tuft & Needle Original Compared Side-by-Side

FeaturesNectarTuft & Needle Original
Height12”10”
CoverPoly-blend quilted to memory foamPolyester Euro top with blended foam
MaterialsGel memory foam and conventional foamsT&N Adaptive® Foam and polyfoam
CoolingGel in the memory foam layer, breathable coverGel and graphite in the adaptive foam layer, breathable cover
Firmness6.5/105/10
SupportGreatGreat
Motion TransferMinimalMinimal
Edge SupportGoodDecent
SinkageDeep HugGentle Cradle
BounceNoYes
WarrantyForever10-Year
Trial Period365 nights100 nights
CertificationsCertiPUR-US®CertiPUR-US®, GREENGUARD Gold
Adjustable Base CompatibleYesYes
ShippingShips to U.S., White Glove Delivery is optionalShips to the United States
Made in the USANoYes
Read Full ReviewNectar Mattress ReviewTuft and Neede Mattress Review
Shop NowNectar MattressTuft & Needle Original Mattress

Final Thoughts

The perfect foam mattress for you depends on your sleep preferences and style. Nectar offers that signature memory foam feel, more layers of support, and plenty of breathability. Their excellent trial period and warranty provide great value. 

Tuft & Needle’s Original mattress is foam but won’t crater like memory foam, making it ideal for those who like to change positions. Plus, heat and moisture-wicking technology in a sleek Euro top make this affordable mattress worthy of consideration. 

Both offer different advantages to the various types of sleepers, but if you’re strongly considering either option, don’t forget to check out our in-depth reviews on both of these products.

Product
Firmness
Trial Period
Nectar Mattress
Nectar Mattress
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
365 nights
tuft & needle original mattress
Tuft & Needle Mattress
Medium: 5/10
100 nights
Nectar Mattress
Product
Nectar Mattress
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
tuft & needle original mattress
Product
Tuft & Needle Mattress
Firmness
Medium: 5/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Nicole LaMarco

Nicole LaMarco

Writer

About Author

Nicole is a freelance writer with 19 years of experience. She specializes in the health industry and is passionate about fitness, nutrition, mental health, wellness, and martial arts.

Combination Sleeper