Choosing between two of the most innovative mattress technologies on the market can feel overwhelming. Both Amerisleep and Purple have revolutionized how we think about sleep comfort, but they take dramatically different approaches to achieve it.
If you're torn between Purple's unique gel polymer grid and Amerisleep's plant-based memory foam, you're not alone. While both are quality options that have earned thousands of positive reviews, they serve distinctly different sleeper needs.
The quick answer? Purple excels for hot sleepers and those wanting a bouncy, responsive feel with its innovative Purple Grid technology. Amerisleep shines for traditional memory foam lovers seeking customizable firmness options and eco-friendly materials.
In this comprehensive comparison, we'll dive deep into materials, performance testing, pricing, and real user experiences to help you make the right choice for your unique sleep needs.
Contents
Before diving into the details, let's look at how these two mattress brands stack up against each other:
Feature | Amerisleep AS3 | Purple Original |
Price (Queen) | $1,349-$1,749 | $1,499 |
Thickness | 12 inches | 9.5 inches |
Firmness | 5-6.5/10 (Medium) | 6.5/10 (Medium-Firm) |
Top Layer | 3 Bio-Pur foam | 2 Purple Grid |
Warranty | 20 years | 10 years |
Sleep Trial | 100 nights | 100 nights |
Best For | All sleep positions | Hot sleepers, heavier people |
Amerisleep:
Purple:
Purple burst onto the mattress scene with a technology unlike anything else - the Purple Grid. This innovative comfort layer has redefined what sleepers expect from pressure relief and temperature control.
The Purple Grid is a hyper-elastic polymer material arranged in a grid pattern with over 1,400 air channels. This design creates a surface that's simultaneously soft and supportive, collapsing under pressure points while maintaining structure elsewhere.
The grid's open design allows exceptional airflow, making it ideal for those who struggle with night sweats. Unlike traditional memory foam that traps heat, the Purple Grid remains temperature-neutral throughout the night.
This unique material also provides instant response to movement. There's no slow recovery time like traditional memory foam - the grid snaps back immediately when you change positions.
Purple offers several models to suit different preferences and budgets:
Purple Original: The flagship model features 2 inches of Purple Grid over transitional and base foam layers. At $1,499 for a queen, it's the most affordable option.
Purple Hybrid: Combines the Purple Grid with responsive pocketed coils for added support and bounce. Prices start at $1,699 for a queen size.
Purple Hybrid Premier: Available with 3 or 4 inches of Purple Grid for maximum pressure relief. These premium models range from $2,299 to $2,999 for a queen.
Each model maintains the signature Purple feel while offering varying levels of cushioning and support for different body types and sleep preferences.
Amerisleep takes a more traditional approach with advanced memory foam technology. Their focus on eco-friendly materials and customizable comfort has earned them a loyal following among environmentally conscious sleepers.
At the heart of every Amerisleep mattress is Bio-Pur foam - a plant-based memory foam that's more responsive than traditional petroleum-based alternatives. This open-cell structure promotes better airflow while maintaining the contouring comfort memory foam is known for.
The HIVE (Harnessing Intelligent Ventilation & Energy) technology adds another layer of innovation. This zoned support system provides targeted pressure relief where you need it most - softer under shoulders and hips, firmer under the back and legs.
Amerisleep's commitment to sustainability extends beyond materials. They use CertiPUR-US certified foams and minimize packaging waste, appealing to eco-conscious consumers.
Unlike Purple's limited options, Amerisleep offers five distinct models to match every sleep style:
This range ensures every sleeper can find their ideal firmness level without compromise.
Understanding the construction differences helps explain why these mattresses feel so different despite similar firmness ratings.
Layer | Amerisleep AS3 | Purple Original |
Cover | Soft, breathable Refresh fabric | Stretchy polyester-viscose-lycra blend |
Comfort Layer | 3 Bio-Pur memory foam | 2 Purple Grid polymer |
Transition Layer | 2 HIVE zoned polyfoam | 3.5 polyfoam |
Base Layer | 7 high-density Bio-Core foam | 4 support polyfoam |
Total Height | 12 inches | 9.5 inches |
The Amerisleep's thicker profile provides a more substantial feel, while Purple's thinner design makes it easier to move and set up. Both use quality materials, but their approaches to comfort couldn't be more different.
The Bio-Pur foam in Amerisleep mattresses contains plant-based oils, reducing petroleum content by up to 10 times compared to traditional memory foam. This results in less off-gassing and a more environmentally friendly product.
Purple's hyper-elastic polymer is completely non-toxic and incredibly durable. The material won't break down like foam, potentially lasting longer under regular use.
Both brands prioritize safety with CertiPUR-US certification, ensuring their foams are:
Amerisleep goes further with their plant-based materials, appealing to those seeking the most eco-friendly option. Purple's polymer grid is hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites, making it ideal for allergy sufferers.
Neither mattress contains fiberglass, a concern with some budget brands. This commitment to safety gives peace of mind for families with children or pets.
The most significant difference between these mattresses lies in how they feel. Your preference here will likely determine which mattress suits you best.
Sleeping on Purple creates a unique sensation best described as "floating." The Purple Grid buckles under pressure points while maintaining support elsewhere, creating a feeling unlike any other mattress.
The grid's instant response means no memory foam "quicksand" effect. You can easily change positions without feeling stuck, making it excellent for combination sleepers who shift throughout the night.
The surface remains cool and dry thanks to exceptional airflow through the grid channels. Even on warm nights, the mattress won't trap heat against your body.
Amerisleep offers a more traditional memory foam experience with modern improvements. The Bio-Pur foam contours to your body shape, providing that classic "hugged" sensation memory foam lovers seek.
Unlike older memory foam that could feel hot and unresponsive, Bio-Pur's open-cell structure allows better airflow and faster response to movement. You'll still get pressure relief without feeling completely stuck.
The HIVE technology adds subtle zoning that you might not consciously notice but your body will appreciate. Extra cushioning at the shoulders and hips helps maintain spinal alignment regardless of sleep position.
Purple works best for:
Amerisleep excels for:
Beyond subjective feel, objective performance metrics help differentiate these mattresses in real-world use.
Motion isolation matters for couples, especially if one partner moves frequently during sleep. In testing, both mattresses perform well but with different strengths.
Amerisleep's memory foam naturally absorbs movement, preventing motion from traveling across the bed. The dense foam layers effectively isolate each sleeper's movements.
Purple's grid also minimizes motion transfer, though not quite as effectively as memory foam. The grid's walls flex independently, containing movement to specific areas.
Winner: Amerisleep AS3 - Traditional memory foam still reigns supreme for motion isolation.
Temperature control can make or break sleep quality, especially for hot sleepers. Here, Purple's innovative design shines.
The Purple Grid's open channels promote continuous airflow, actively dissipating body heat. The polymer material itself doesn't retain heat like foam, staying temperature-neutral all night.
While Amerisleep's Bio-Pur foam improves on traditional memory foam's heat retention, it can't match Purple's cooling performance. The open-cell structure helps, but foam inherently traps more heat than Purple's grid design.
Winner: Purple - The Purple Grid provides superior temperature regulation for cooler sleep.
Edge support affects how much usable space you have and how easy it is to get in and out of bed. Neither mattress excels here, but there are differences.
Purple reinforces the grid edges with firm foam, providing decent support when sitting on the bed's edge. However, the thinner profile means less overall edge structure.
Amerisleep's thicker construction provides more substantial edge support, though the memory foam still compresses noticeably when you sit on the edge. The AS3's zoned support helps maintain better edge integrity than uniform foam.
For durability, Purple's polymer grid should outlast traditional foam, resisting sagging and indentation over time. Amerisleep's 20-year warranty suggests confidence in their foam's longevity, double Purple's 10-year coverage.
When investing in quality sleep, understanding the total value proposition matters as much as the sticker price.
Size | Amerisleep AS3 | Purple Original | Price Difference |
Twin | $1,099 | $999 | AS3 costs $100 more |
Twin XL | $1,149 | $1,099 | AS3 costs $50 more |
Full | $1,299 | $1,399 | Purple costs $100 more |
Queen | $1,349 | $1,499 | Purple costs $150 more |
King | $1,649 | $1,999 | Purple costs $350 more |
Cal King | $1,649 | $1,999 | Purple costs $350 more |
Prices vary with promotions, but Purple typically offers more frequent discounts. Check for seasonal sales to maximize savings on either brand.
Considering warranty coverage provides a different value perspective:
Amerisleep's longer warranty makes it more economical long-term, assuming both mattresses last their warranty period.
Both brands offer regular promotions:
Sign up for email lists to receive exclusive discount codes before major sales events.
Purple's unique properties make it perfect for specific sleeper types. You'll love Purple if you fall into these categories:
Hot Sleepers: The Purple Grid's exceptional airflow makes it ideal for those who overheat on traditional foam. No more waking up in a pool of sweat.
Heavier Individuals (230+ pounds): The grid provides responsive support without excessive sinking. Heavier sleepers activate the grid's pressure relief while maintaining proper alignment.
Restless Sleepers: If you change positions frequently, Purple's instant response prevents that "stuck" feeling. The bouncy surface makes movement effortless.
Budget-Conscious Shoppers: With a lower entry price and frequent sales, Purple offers innovative technology at a competitive price point.
The unique feel takes adjustment for some sleepers. If you're used to traditional mattresses, give yourself the full trial period to adapt to the floating sensation.
Amerisleep caters to sleepers seeking a more traditional feel with modern improvements:
Lightweight to Average-Weight Sleepers: The foam layers provide ideal contouring without excessive sinking for those under 230 pounds.
Memory Foam Enthusiasts: If you love that classic memory foam hug but want better responsiveness and cooling, Bio-Pur delivers the best of both worlds.
Specific Firmness Needs: With five models from firm to plush, you can find your exact comfort preference without compromise.
Eco-Conscious Consumers: Plant-based materials and sustainable manufacturing appeal to environmentally aware shoppers.
The variety of options means couples with different preferences can find models that work for both partners, especially with a quality mattress topper for fine-tuning.
No mattress is perfect for everyone. Understanding common issues helps set realistic expectations.
Weight and Setup: At 140+ pounds for a queen, Purple mattresses challenge solo setup. The unique material makes them heavier than expected for their size.
Adjustment Period: The unusual feel requires adaptation. Some sleepers never adjust to the floating sensation, preferring traditional support.
Limited Options: With only one firmness level in the Original, you can't customize the feel. The Hybrid models add options but at significant cost increases.
Some users report the grid feeling too firm initially, especially lightweight side sleepers who don't compress it enough for pressure relief.
Higher Price Point: While offering more options, Amerisleep costs more than many online competitors. The plant-based materials add to manufacturing costs.
Potential Heat Retention: Despite improvements, some hot sleepers still find memory foam too warm compared to Purple's active cooling.
Initial Off-Gassing: Like most foam mattresses, expect some "new mattress smell" initially. It dissipates within days but bothers sensitive individuals.
The memory foam's slower response might frustrate very active sleepers accustomed to springy surfaces.
After extensive analysis, both mattresses excel in different areas. Your choice depends on prioritizing what matters most for your sleep:
Choose Purple if:
Choose Amerisleep if:
For most sleepers, the decision comes down to feel preference. Purple's innovative grid creates a sleep experience unlike anything else, while Amerisleep perfects the memory foam formula with modern enhancements.
Can't decide? Consider these alternatives:
Timing your purchase strategically can save hundreds of dollars on either mattress.
Best Times to Buy:
Money-Saving Strategies:
Both brands occasionally offer flash sales via email, so join their lists for exclusive access to limited-time promotions.
Both can help with back pain, but in different ways. Purple's responsive grid maintains spinal alignment while providing pressure relief. Amerisleep's zoned support specifically targets the lumbar region.
For chronic back pain, Amerisleep's variety of firmness options allows more precise matching to your needs. The AS2 (firm) often works best for back pain sufferers.
Purple's hyper-elastic polymer should theoretically outlast foam, resisting permanent indentation better. However, Amerisleep backs their mattresses with a 20-year warranty versus Purple's 10-year coverage.
Real-world longevity depends on use, body weight, and maintenance. Both should provide at least 7-10 years of quality sleep with proper care.
Yes, standard fitted sheets work fine with Purple mattresses. The 9.5-inch height accommodates most deep-pocket sheets designed for 8-14 inch mattresses.
Purple does sell stretchy sheets optimized for their grid, but they're not necessary. Any quality sheets with adequate stretch will work well.
While cooler than traditional memory foam, Amerisleep mattresses retain more heat than Purple. The Bio-Pur foam's open-cell structure helps, but can't match the active cooling of Purple's grid design.
Hot sleepers sensitive to temperature might prefer adding a cooling mattress protector or choosing Purple for maximum temperature control.
Both companies offer responsive customer service with similar policies:
User reviews suggest slightly better experiences with Amerisleep's customer service, particularly for warranty claims. However, both maintain good reputations for customer support.
The Amerisleep vs Purple decision ultimately comes down to your personal sleep preferences and priorities. Purple revolutionizes sleep with its innovative Purple Grid, delivering unmatched cooling and a unique floating feel that hot sleepers and those seeking responsive support will love.
Amerisleep perfects the memory foam experience with plant-based materials and customizable options, ideal for eco-conscious sleepers and those wanting traditional contouring comfort with modern improvements.
Both represent significant upgrades from older mattress technology. Whether you choose Purple's innovation or Amerisleep's refinement, you're investing in better sleep quality.
Take advantage of the 100-night sleep trials to experience these mattresses risk-free. Your perfect night's sleep awaits - the only question is which path you'll take to get there.