Memory Foam vs Hybrid: Which Mattress Is Right for You?

Trying to choose between a memory foam vs a hybrid mattress? You aren’t alone. These are two of the most popular mattress types sold today. At Dreamify, we offer high-quality options for both, but the right choice comes down to your own sleep needs and preferences. 

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Memory Foam vs Hybrid Mattress Quick Reference Guide

We’ll dive into the specifics below, but here’s a glance at the major differences between memory foam mattresses and hybrid mattresses.

Feature
Memory foam

Memory foam
Hybrid

Hybrid

Support

Medium to high contouring support

Strong, responsive support

Firmness Feel

Softer, body-hugging

Balanced feel with slight bounce

Motion Isolation

Excellent (minimal partner disturbance)

Good, but may transfer some movement

Breathability

Can retain heat

Better airflow thanks to coils

Temperature Regulation

May sleep warm

Typically cooler with better ventilation

Bounce / Responsiveness

Low responsiveness

High responsiveness due to spring layer

Pressure Relief

Excellent for joints and pressure points

Also good, but less contouring

Durability

High, especially with dense foam

High, especially with quality coil system

Best for

Side sleepers, pressure relief seekers

Combo sleepers, back/stomach sleepers

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What is a Memory Foam Mattress?

A memory foam mattress uses multiple layers of high-quality foam to cradle you. These foam layers contour to the shape of your body, providing cloud-like comfort where you need it most.

Memory foam mattresses are still supportive, but they may not provide the same type of support as a hybrid mattress. Still, memory foam tends to be softer and better at relieving pressure than other types of mattresses.

We offer three different memory foam mattresses in our lineup. These include the 10-Inch Memory Foam Mattress, the 12-Inch Memory Foam Mattress, and the 12-Inch Gel Memory Foam mattress. Here are some benefits, drawbacks, and standout features of all memory foam mattresses, including ours.

The Memory Foam “Hug”

Pros

Fewer Pressure Points

The memory foam “hug” means you’ll wake up without uncomfortable pressure points. Side sleepers and those who usually wake up uncomfortable can rest easier with full-body contouring and pressure relief.

Say Goodbye to Excessive Movement

Memory foam absorbs motion, which is great for lighter sleepers. If your partner tosses and turns (or your pets often wake you up when they hop up to snuggle), a memory foam mattress could be a great option for you. Motion has a much harder time moving from one side of the bed to the other, leaving you sleeping peacefully no matter what.

A Quieter Sleep Experience

Traditional spring mattresses can make noise when you move around. Memory foam doesn’t have any squeaking or creaking coils, so moving around (and getting in and out of bed) is much quieter.

Great Value and Affordability

Memory foam mattresses tend to be more affordable than hybrid options. Shoppers on a budget may prefer to start with a memory foam mattress. Plus, they are a better value for guest rooms, kids’ rooms, and solo sleepers.

Cons

Mild Cooling Properties

Unless a memory foam mattress uses a layer of gel foam to reduce heat, you’ll probably end up feeling a little warmer as you sleep. Memory foam is notorious for heating up as you sleep, but gel memory foam and other breathable materials can introduce cooler airflow.

Less Bounce and Slower Response

Having a still, calm sleep is important to some sleepers. Others need a little bit of response to stay comfortable and move around easily. Memory foam can make it a bit more difficult to turn over, so a hybrid may be best if you move around a lot in your sleep.

Lower Durability

Memory foam’s contouring properties are one of its biggest features. Over time, this contouring can reduce response time and cause foam to break down. Memory foam mattresses have a shorter lifespan, but the comforting properties may make up for more frequent replacement.

Less Suitable for Heavier Sleepers

Heavier sleepers often need a thicker mattress to gain the same pressure-relieving benefits as lightweight and average sleepers. Most memory foam mattresses aren’t thick enough to keep heavier sleepers from sinking through the layers, which can lead to increased pressure.
    See memory foam mattress

    What Is a Hybrid Mattress? 

    A hybrid mattress also uses foam layers for comfort. However, the support layer is made of pocketed coils that can compress individually for better contouring, more breathability, and a more supportive feel. 

    These mattresses are better for heavier sleepers, those who need better spinal alignment, and those who sleep hot. The trade-off is that they are sometimes vastly more expensive than memory foam options. 

    A Closer Look at Pocket Coils

    Pocket coils are wrapped springs that aren’t linked together in the traditional sense. While innerspring mattresses use solid layers of interconnected springs, pocket coils are separate and can compress individually. 

    This means that the coils adapt better to your body. When one coil is pushed down by the weight of your shoulders, the coils around it don’t bow or bend to the pressure. The ultimate result is better support for you, increased mattress durability, and less pressure pushing back on you from the mattress.

    A Closer Look at Pocket Coils

    Pros

    Alignment and Support

    The coil layer within a hybrid mattress offers strong spinal alignment and full-body support. Heavier sleepers, those with back pain, and sleepers who prefer a stronger support profile tend to prefer hybrid mattresses. They also have a firmer feel overall than most memory foam options.

    Better Bounce for a Quick Response

    If you move around a lot at night, a hybrid mattress may be better for you. Hybrid mattresses give you more feedback and bounce. This is an important factor for some sleepers, particularly those who don’t like a completely still mattress.

    Extreme Durability

    Because of the way hybrid mattresses are constructed, they tend to be more durable than memory foam mattresses. They offer a longer lifespan and usually don’t need to be replaced as often, even with nightly use.

    Cooler Feel

    The pocket coils within a hybrid mattress allow for better airflow. This means less heat at the top of the mattress, relieving build-up for those who sleep hot.

    Cons

    Can be Costly

    Hybrid mattresses come at a premium. Their price can vary depending on the company, size, and materials. Because of their advanced construction, they are always more expensive than memory foam models.

    More Motion Transfer

    The coils in a hybrid mattress won’t stop motion like memory foam will. At the same time, they don’t move quite as much as more traditional springs, either. If you aren’t bothered by movement, a hybrid mattress can still be a great choice.

    Heavier and Harder to Move

    Hybrid mattresses use heavier materials, making them more difficult to move. You may need help setting up your hybrid mattress because moving the box by yourself is difficult.
      See memory hybrid mattress

      Memory Foam vs Hybrid: The Right Choice for Your Sleeping Position

      We all know that firmness and support are subjective. A mattress can feel vastly different for each sleeper, even if they sleep in the same position and have the same general preferences. So where do you start? Knowing which mattresses are best for your sleeping position can be a great first step to choosing the mattress that’s right for you.

      Best Mattress for Side Sleepers

      Side sleepers need strong pressure relief to keep their hips and shoulders from developing painful pressure points. Because of this, side sleepers are more likely to prefer a memory foam mattress. 

      If you sleep on your side and are often bothered by pressure, consider choosing our 10-Inch Memory Foam, 12-Inch Memory Foam or 12-Inch Gel Memory Foam options.

      Best Mattress for Back Sleepers

      Back sleepers need a mattress with strong natural alignment. They need their spines to be completely neutral as they sleep. They also tend to prefer support from medium-firm to firm mattresses. 

      If you find yourself sleeping on your back more often than not, a hybrid mattress may be right for you. Our 12-Inch Hybrid or 14-Inch Hybrid mattresses are ideal for back sleepers.

      Best Mattress for Stomach Sleepers

      Stomach sleepers also need balance to prevent an unnatural spinal curve. To prevent backaches and maintain strong alignment, firmer support is necessary for stomach sleepers.

      We recommend our 13” Hybrid or 14-Inch Cashmere Hybrid models for stomach sleepers. Both mattresses meet the need for stronger support without sagging in the middle.

      Final Verdict: Should You Buy a Memory Foam or Hybrid Mattress? 

      Should you buy a memory foam mattress or a hybrid? Before you make your final decision, remember to compare performance features for both types of mattresses. Look at your sleeping position, sleep preferences, and any pain points that you may be experiencing with your current mattress. 

      Since sleep is extremely subjective, we can’t tell you which mattress will work for you beyond any doubt. Knowing what you prefer and which options may work best for you is valuable information to take into your mattress shopping experience. 

      Lastly, it’s important to consider each mattress on an individual basis. Using this general knowledge, you should be able to evaluate each mattress option based on its merits, benefits, and materials. Whether you like the comforting “hug” of memory foam or need strong hybrid support, there is a wealth of choices for each mattress type. 

      Still not sure? You can browse our full mattress collection below. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you need more help choosing a mattress–we’re happy to help you find the perfect fit!

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      Frequently Asked Questions

      Which type of mattress is best for back pain? 

      A lack of spinal alignment is one of the biggest factors that contributes to back pain. A hybrid mattress balances your body better. The coils reduce extreme dips at your hips and shoulders, which is ideal for keeping your spine in a neutral position.

      Which type of mattress is best if I share a bed? 

      You should choose the type of mattress that works best for you and your partner’s preferences. While memory foam isolates motion better, a hybrid mattress gives better support. Hybrids are also a good choice for couples who don’t move around a lot, or those who don’t mind a bit of extra movement from their mattress.

      Which mattress should heavier sleepers choose?

      Heavier sleepers will find better support and pressure relief in a hybrid mattress. The way a hybrid mattress balances your body may be preferable for those with a larger body type.

      What’s the difference between memory foam and hybrid mattresses?

      Memory foam mattresses offer a soft, cradling sensation and excellent motion isolation. They are best for those who prefer to sink into the mattress for a “hugged” feeling, as well as those who need a still sleeping surface.

      Hybrid mattresses combine foam with individually pocketed coils. They feel more supportive and breathable, with better airflow and a bit of bounce. They are typically better for those who prefer sleeping “on” rather than “in” their mattress. 

      Is a hybrid mattress better than memory foam?

      A hybrid mattress may be “better” based on your preferences, but everyone is different. Some sleepers prefer a memory foam mattress based on how they sleep, so it isn’t as simple as choosing a “better” option.

      What if I sleep hot?

      If you often overheat while you sleep, choosing a gel memory foam mattress is a good starting point. Extremely hot sleepers should choose a hybrid mattress for better cooling properties.

      What lasts longer, memory foam or hybrid? 

      Hybrid mattresses last longer and maintain support for years to come. They also don’t sag as quickly, meaning they hold up better over time.