Visco elastic foam is another term for memory foam. It is a blend of polyurethane foam that was developed for airplane cushions by a NASA contract in the 1970s.
The difference between visco elastic foam and other types of polyurethane foam is its slow response and low resistance. Its soft surface allows for contouring and its slow response lowers bounce.
Visco elastic foam, like all polyurethane foam, is made from a blend of substances and has a tendency to off-gas. Those with lung sensitivities should do additional research about the quality of foam to ensure that it won't aggravate them.
Pros: Contouring comfort, competitive pricepoints, and widespread options.
Cons: Sagging and off-gassing problems with lower quality foams.
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:
Visco Elastic Foam: 9.3/10
Open Coil: 8.7/10
Comfort:
Visco Elastic Foam: 9.4/10
Open Coil: 8.7/10
Softness:
Visco Elastic Foam: 9.5/10
Open Coil: 8.4/10
Cooling:
Visco Elastic Foam: 8/10
Open Coil: 9.5/10
Hypoallergenic:
Visco Elastic Foam: 8.1/10
Open Coil: 9.4/10
Odor:
Visco Elastic Foam: 8.4/10
Open Coil: 9.4/10
General Support:
Visco Elastic Foam: 8.7/10
Open Coil: 8.9/10
Eco-Conscious:
Visco Elastic Foam: 8.5/10
Open Coil: 8.7/10
Price Value:
Visco Elastic Foam: 9.4/10
Open Coil: 9.5/10