Our Nectar vs. Tuft and Needle Comparison for 2024

Written by Nicole LaMarco, Writer

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In This Article

Trying to compare these two memory foam mattresses? Check out our in-depth comparison of these responsive mattresses, both expert tested by our team.

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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.

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

Size	Nectar 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	—