Choosing between GhostBed and Leesa can feel overwhelming when both promise exceptional sleep quality. Here's the quick answer: GhostBed excels with its latex-foam hybrid construction and superior cooling, making it ideal for hot sleepers and those who need extra support up to 400 pounds. Leesa wins on affordability and balanced all-foam comfort, perfect for back sleepers and budget-conscious shoppers seeking quality without the premium price tag.
This comprehensive comparison dives deep into construction differences, real-world performance, pricing, and which sleeper types benefit most from each mattress. We'll help you make the right choice based on your specific needs, sleeping position, and budget.
Contents
Before diving into the details, here's what sets these two popular bed-in-a-box mattresses apart:
| Feature | GhostBed | Leesa |
| Construction | Latex + Memory Foam | All-Foam with Avena |
| Firmness | 7/10 (Medium-Firm) | 6.5-7/10 (Medium-Firm) |
| Height | 11 inches | 10 inches |
| Cooling | Excellent (Latex + Gel) | Good (Avena Foam) |
| Motion Isolation | Good | Better |
| Edge Support | Better | Good |
| Weight Limit | 400 lbs per person | 300 lbs per person |
| Warranty | 20 years | 10 years |
| Trial Period | 101 nights | 100 nights |
The GhostBed's 11-inch profile combines three distinct layers engineered for cooling and responsive support:
Top Layer (1.5 inches): Aerated latex foam provides immediate bounce and exceptional breathability. This natural material responds quickly to movement, making position changes effortless while maintaining cooler sleep temperatures than traditional foam.
Middle Layer (2 inches): Gel-infused memory foam delivers targeted pressure relief and contouring. The cooling gel infusion works with the latex above to prevent heat buildup common in all-foam beds.
Base Layer (7.5 inches): High-density support foam creates a durable foundation, ensuring proper spinal alignment and preventing premature sagging. This substantial base contributes to the mattress's impressive 400-pound weight capacity.
The removable cover features a two-tone design with stretchy white fabric on top for comfort and durable gray side panels for protection and longevity.
Leesa's 10-inch all-foam design focuses on balanced comfort through three specialized layers:
Top Layer (2 inches): LSA200 foam (Leesa's proprietary Avena foam) mimics latex's responsiveness without the bounce. This breathable material promotes airflow while providing gentle cushioning that adapts to your body.
Middle Layer (2 inches): Premium memory foam contours precisely to pressure points, offering deeper relief than GhostBed's thinner memory foam layer. This strategic placement beneath the cooling layer minimizes heat retention.
Base Layer (6 inches): Dense polyfoam foundation provides essential support and durability. Though thinner than GhostBed's base, it adequately supports average-weight sleepers while maintaining the mattress's shape.
The soft, breathable cover blends polyester and Lycra for stretch and moisture-wicking properties, though it's not removable like GhostBed's.
Both mattresses target the popular medium-firm range, but their unique constructions create distinctly different sleep experiences.
Landing firmly at 7/10 on the firmness scale, GhostBed delivers a balanced feel that combines bounce with contouring. The latex top layer creates an immediately responsive surface – you'll feel "on" rather than "in" the mattress. This makes the GhostBed excellent for combination sleepers who change positions frequently throughout the night.
The transition from latex to memory foam provides progressive support. Light pressure activates the latex's gentle give, while deeper compression engages the memory foam for enhanced pressure relief. This dual-action response prevents the stuck feeling common with pure memory foam beds.
Measuring 6.5-7/10 in firmness, Leesa offers a slightly softer initial feel despite similar firmness ratings. The Avena foam creates a more balanced sink-and-support sensation compared to GhostBed's pronounced bounce. You'll experience gentle cradling without excessive sinkage.
The all-foam construction provides more uniform compression across the surface. Where GhostBed offers distinct layers of response, Leesa delivers consistent, predictable support that many sleepers find comforting. The slower response time suits those who prefer settling into their mattress rather than floating atop it.
Leesa takes the win for couples sensitive to partner movement. The all-foam construction absorbs motion effectively, with minimal transfer across the surface. Our testing showed that even vigorous tossing barely registered on the opposite side.
GhostBed's latex layer introduces more bounce and motion transfer. While not disruptive for most couples, light sleepers might notice partner movements more readily. The trade-off comes in easier repositioning – beneficial for restless sleepers.
GhostBed dominates the cooling category. The latex layer's natural breathability combined with gel-infused memory foam creates superior heat dissipation. Hot sleepers consistently report cooler sleep compared to traditional memory foam options.
Leesa performs adequately but can't match GhostBed's cooling prowess. The Avena foam improves upon standard memory foam's heat retention, but sensitive hot sleepers might still experience some warmth buildup during extended sleep.
GhostBed provides superior edge support thanks to its firmer feel and robust construction. Sitting or sleeping near the edge feels stable and secure, maximizing the usable sleep surface. This proves especially valuable for couples sharing smaller mattress sizes.
Leesa's edges compress more noticeably under weight. While adequate for normal use, those who frequently sit on the bed's edge or sleep close to the perimeter might prefer GhostBed's enhanced stability.
Combination Sleepers: The responsive latex surface facilitates easy position changes without feeling stuck or creating sleep disruptions.
Hot Sleepers: Superior cooling technology keeps even the warmest sleepers comfortable throughout the night.
Heavier Individuals: The 400-pound weight capacity and firmer support system accommodate larger body types better than most bed-in-a-box options.
Back and Stomach Sleepers: The firmer profile maintains proper spinal alignment for these positions, preventing lower back strain.
Active Couples: The bouncy surface enhances intimacy while the durable construction withstands regular activity.
Back Sleepers: The balanced medium-firm feel provides ideal lumbar support while cushioning pressure points.
Budget-Conscious Shoppers: Lower price point delivers excellent value without sacrificing quality or comfort.
Light Sleepers: Superior motion isolation prevents partner disturbances, ensuring uninterrupted rest.
Average-Weight Side Sleepers: While both mattresses lean firm for side sleeping, Leesa's slightly softer feel and deeper memory foam layer offer better pressure relief for moderate-weight side sleepers.
First-Time Bed-in-a-Box Buyers: The straightforward all-foam design and balanced feel make it an excellent introduction to online mattress shopping.
| Size | GhostBed | Leesa | Savings with Leesa |
| Twin | $895 | $849 | $46 |
| Twin XL | $1,045 | $899 | $146 |
| Full | $1,250 | $1,099 | $151 |
| Queen | $1,350 | $1,199 | $151 |
| King | $1,650 | $1,399 | $251 |
| Cal King | $1,670 | $1,399 | $271 |
Prices shown before discounts or promotions
Leesa offers compelling value for budget-minded shoppers, with savings ranging from $46-$271 depending on size. The lower price doesn't mean compromised quality – Leesa delivers premium materials and construction at a more accessible price point.
GhostBed justifies its higher pricing through premium features: natural latex, enhanced cooling technology, double the warranty period, and higher weight capacity. For those prioritizing these specific benefits, the additional investment proves worthwhile.
Consider checking our guide on when is the best time to buy a mattress to maximize savings on either option.
Both companies offer generous trial periods:
The single-night difference proves negligible in practice. Both companies facilitate hassle-free returns if unsatisfied, typically arranging pickup and donation of returned mattresses to local charities.
GhostBed's 20-year warranty doubles Leesa's coverage, demonstrating exceptional confidence in their product's longevity. The warranty covers manufacturing defects and premature sagging beyond normal wear.
Leesa's 10-year warranty aligns with industry standards, providing adequate protection for the mattress's expected lifespan. Both warranties prorate coverage over time, with full replacement typically available during initial years.
Both brands ship free to the contiguous United States:
Mattresses arrive compressed in boxes via FedEx or UPS. Setup requires only unboxing and allowing 24-48 hours for full expansion. Consider our guide on do you tip mattress delivery drivers if opting for white glove delivery services.
GhostBed's latex component and thicker base layer suggest superior longevity. Latex naturally resists body impressions better than foam, while the 20-year warranty backs this durability claim. Expect 10-12 years of comfortable use from GhostBed versus 7-10 years from Leesa under normal conditions.
Yes, both mattresses pair excellently with adjustable bases. Their flexible foam constructions bend without damage, and neither relies on innersprings that might shift or break. The most comfortable mattresses often feature this compatibility.
Both sleep cooler than conventional memory foam but warmer than traditional innerspring mattresses. GhostBed's latex layer provides notably better temperature regulation, making it the clear choice for hot sleepers. According to Sleep Foundation research, latex consistently ranks among the coolest mattress materials.
Expect mild initial odors from both mattresses, typical of compressed foam products. GhostBed's latex produces less chemical smell than pure foam options. Most odors dissipate within 24-72 hours with proper ventilation. Both use CertiPUR-US certified foams free from harmful chemicals.
Regardless of your choice, consider these additions to optimize your sleep experience:
A quality mattress topper can fine-tune firmness if needed. Hot sleepers might benefit from cooling sheets and pillows to complement their mattress choice. Good Housekeeping's testing shows that proper accessories significantly impact overall sleep quality.
If neither mattress perfectly matches your needs:
Both GhostBed and Leesa deliver quality sleep experiences, but they excel for different sleepers. GhostBed wins for hot sleepers, heavier individuals, and those seeking responsive support with exceptional cooling. Its premium materials and extended warranty justify the higher investment for those prioritizing these features.
Leesa triumphs on value, offering balanced comfort at a more accessible price point. Its superior motion isolation and classic all-foam feel appeal to couples and back sleepers seeking proven performance without premium pricing.
Your choice ultimately depends on personal preferences, body type, and budget. Both mattresses represent solid investments in better sleep, backed by generous trials that eliminate purchase risk. Consider your primary sleep concerns, review our detailed comparisons above, and choose confidently knowing either option delivers quality rest for years ahead.