Gel is a recent newcomer to the mattress space. It is being used as both a standalone layer and an infusion into foam. Gel benefits mattresses by retaining less heat than memory foam. Also, newer gels compete against memory foam by being more responsive and less toxic.
Gel is similar to foam because it is a polymer made by blending plastics and other chemicals.
Because of gel's heat diffusing properties, it is generally found in the top layer of the mattress under the cover.
Pros: Cooler sleeping surface vs memory foam. More responsive feel when not combined with foam.
Cons: Similar to foam, it is a synthetic blend of chemicals.
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.
Overall Score:
Gel: 8.6/10
Open Coil: 8.7/10
Comfort:
Gel: 8.7/10
Open Coil: 8.7/10
Softness:
Gel: 8/10
Open Coil: 8.4/10
Cooling:
Gel: 8.1/10
Open Coil: 9.5/10
Hypoallergenic:
Gel: 8.1/10
Open Coil: 9.4/10
Odor:
Gel: 8.9/10
Open Coil: 9.4/10
General Support:
Gel: 8.1/10
Open Coil: 9.5/10
Eco-Conscious:
Gel: 8/10
Open Coil: 8.7/10
Price Value:
Gel: 9.2/10
Open Coil: 9.5/10
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