I hit the point where every adjustable-bed ad sounded identical, while my lower back kept insisting something in my setup wasn’t working. So I went back to Sleep Number with a simpler goal: judge these smart beds by how they feel after weeks of real sleep—alignment, pressure relief, and whether I wake up less stiff.
We focused on four current Sleep Number models that shoppers compare most: the Classic Series c2, Performance Series p5, Innovation Series i8, and the Climate360 Smart Bed. Each mattress saw multi-night rotations in real bedrooms (mine and Jenna/Ethan’s), plus targeted sessions from Marcus and Mia to pressure-test comfort ranges.
Product Overview
| Mattress | Pros | Cons | Ideal For | Price (Queen, approx.) | Overall Score |
| Sleep Number Classic Series c2 | Strong adjustable support; simplest build; quickest “firm up” feel | Thinner comfort feel for many side sleepers; basic cooling; more movement transfer at firmer settings | Average or heavier back sleepers; shoppers who want the Sleep Number system at the lowest cost | Around $1,299 list; promotions vary | 4.2 / 5 |
| Sleep Number Performance Series p5 | Noticeably more cushioning than c2; good pressure relief; strong all-around usability | Mid-tier price; can feel warm at softer settings for very hot sleepers | Combo sleepers; couples who want flexibility without a very plush surface | About $2,699 list; promotions vary | 4.3 / 5 |
| Sleep Number Innovation Series i8 | Plusher comfort with steady support; better temperature control; strong pressure relief range | High price; plush top can feel too soft for strict stomach sleepers | Side sleepers; shoppers with pressure points or joint sensitivity | About $3,999 list; promotions vary | 4.4 / 5 |
| Sleep Number Climate360 Smart Bed | Active cooling and warming; strongest sleep tracking; premium comfort with broad adjustability | Very expensive; more components to manage; occasional system noise for sensitive sleepers | Hot sleepers; couples with opposite temperature needs | Typically $10,000+ for a queen; promotions vary | 4.5 / 5 |
Testing Team Takeaways
In real use, these beds don’t feel like four fixed mattresses—they feel like four platforms with different comfort “buffers” on top of the same adjustable air idea. The top layers decide whether the bed feels firm and direct (c2), balanced (p5), plush (i8), or plush-plus-climate (Climate360).
Marcus (hot sleeper, heavier build) liked the c2 higher on the scale because it kept his hips lifted and his lower back calm. On p5 he stayed supportive but felt less “surface bite.” His overall note was that these beds reward dialing in settings and leaving them alone for a few nights before judging.
Mia (lightweight side sleeper) struggled most on the c2, where the thinner comfort layers made her shoulder feel exposed at mid-firm settings. The i8 was her clear favorite because it “turned on” contour at lower numbers without making her feel swallowed.
Jenna and Ethan ran the couple tests. Motion isolation improved as we moved up the lineup, with i8 and Climate360 dampening movement the best. Climate360 also added a new variable: she could hear occasional low-level airflow when the climate system adjusted overnight.
Sleep Number Mattress Comparison Chart
| Mattress | Firmness Range (approx.) | Height | Core Materials | Cooling Approach | Support Character | Pressure Relief | Responsiveness | Motion Isolation | Durability Outlook |
| Sleep Number Classic Series c2 | Medium-firm through firm (setting-dependent) | About 8" | Dual air chambers with a slim comfort layer | Breathable cover; no specialty cooling system | Best for back support and firmer preferences | Moderate; can feel firm at the shoulders | Quick to adjust; easy to change positions | Good split-bed isolation; more noticeable movement at firmer levels | Simpler build; long-term reliability depends on system care |
| Sleep Number Performance Series p5 | Medium to medium-firm (setting-dependent) | About 10" | Dual air chambers with thicker comfort layers | Enhanced passive cooling vs. Classic | Balanced support for mixed sleepers | Stronger than c2; easier on shoulders | Responsive with a more cushioned surface | Very good; calmer than c2 for most couples | More layers; still dependent on system care |
| Sleep Number Innovation Series i8 | Medium-plush to medium-firm (setting-dependent) | About 12" | Dual air chambers with premium comfort system | Temperature-balancing cover/materials | Robust support once dialed in | High relief potential for shoulders/hips | Slightly slower surface than c2/p5 | Strong; deeper top muffles movement | Premium build; system components matter |
| Sleep Number Climate360 Smart Bed | Broad range; many land medium to medium-firm | About 13" | Dual air chambers with advanced comfort layers | Active cooling and warming; dual zones | Consistent support once calibrated | High relief potential (setting-dependent) | Responsive core; climate shifts can change feel slightly | Strong isolation; occasional system noise possible | Most complex build; care and setup matter |
What We Tested and How We Tested It
We ran the same routine we use for adjustable smart beds: multi-night rotations, posture checks in each position, partner-motion drills, and temperature notes across different Sleep Number settings. The goal wasn’t to “win” a spec sheet—it was to find where each model feels dependable and where it feels finicky. Because firmness is adjustable here, we also referenced our usual rubric for how we test mattress firmness so settings stayed comparable across testers.
Our scoring focuses on core performance traits. Support is spinal alignment under hips and shoulders. Pressure relief is how well the top layers cushion joints. Cooling looks at heat build-up over time. Motion isolation tracks partner disruption. Responsiveness is how quickly the surface lets you move and reset.
We also scored edge support (sitting, sleeping near the border), plus durability and value based on construction and user experience.
Related Post: How We Test Mattresses
Sleep Number Mattress: Our Testing Experience
Sleep Number Classic Series c2
Our Testing Experience
The c2 feels direct and “lean” compared with the rest of the lineup. Back sleeping was the easy win for me: once I settled into a mid-to-firmer setting, my hips stayed lifted and my lower back felt stable. Side sleep was the tradeoff. With less cushioning up top, my shoulder felt more pressure unless I dropped the setting lower—which helped comfort but reduced that locked-in support.
Marcus liked c2 the most at higher numbers for recovery nights because it kept him straight through the hips. Jenna and Ethan felt more partner movement here than on the thicker models, especially when one person changed positions quickly.
Pros & Cons
| Type | Points |
| Pros | Firmer, adjustable support that suits back-dominant sleepers |
| Lowest-cost entry point in this set | |
| Fast, simple firmness adjustments | |
| Cons | Thinner comfort layer can feel sharp on shoulders for side sleepers |
| Basic cooling compared with higher models | |
| More noticeable motion transfer than i8/Climate360 |
Details
- Approx. price (queen): Around $1,299 list; promotions vary
- Height: About 8"
- Feel range: Medium-firm to firm (setting-dependent)
- Best for: Back sleepers; firmer preferences; budget-focused shoppers
- Cooling: Basic breathability
- Couples: Split settings help, but motion is more noticeable than premium models
- Trial: Typically around 100 nights (confirm current terms)
- Warranty: 15-year limited warranty (staged coverage)
Review Score
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Support | 4.6 | Excellent back alignment |
| Pressure Relief | 3.6 | Firm for shoulders |
| Cooling | 3.9 | Neutral, not advanced |
| Motion Isolation | 4.2 | Good, not hushed |
| Responsiveness | 4.5 | Easy to move |
| Edge Support | 4.4 | Stable at firmer settings |
| Durability | 4.3 | System care matters |
| Smart Features / Adjustability | 4.7 | Wide range control |
| Value | 4.0 | Good for entry |
| Overall Score | 4.2 | Best for firm support |
Sleep Number Performance Series p5
Our Testing Experience
The p5 is the “most normal mattress” feel in this set once you lie down. The extra cushioning makes side sleeping easier than on c2, while still letting you firm up support when your back wants it. I stayed around the low-to-mid 30s for side/back combination nights and didn’t feel like I had to keep chasing settings.
For couples, the surface felt calmer than c2 when one person got in or rolled over. Marcus also preferred p5 over c2 for shoulder comfort without giving up support under his hips.
Pros & Cons
| Type | Points |
| Pros | Best balance of cushion and support in this lineup |
| More side-sleep comfort than c2 | |
| Very good motion isolation for most couples | |
| Cons | Costs more than the Classic series |
| Passive cooling only | |
| Some pump noise during adjustments |
Details
- Approx. price (queen): Around $2,699 list; promotions vary
- Height: About 10"
- Feel range: Medium to medium-firm (setting-dependent)
- Best for: Combo sleepers; couples; shoppers who want cushion without “plush”
- Cooling: Better than c2, but still passive
- Couples: Calmer than c2; split settings work well
- Trial: Typically around 100 nights (confirm current terms)
- Warranty: 15-year limited warranty (staged coverage)
Review Score
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Support | 4.5 | Reliable alignment |
| Pressure Relief | 4.2 | Better shoulder ease |
| Cooling | 4.0 | Moderate |
| Motion Isolation | 4.3 | Calm for couples |
| Responsiveness | 4.4 | Easy movement |
| Edge Support | 4.4 | Stable perimeter |
| Durability | 4.3 | System-dependent |
| Smart Features / Adjustability | 4.7 | Strong customization |
| Value | 4.1 | Worth comfort bump |
| Overall Score | 4.3 | Best all-around pick |
Sleep Number Innovation Series i8
Our Testing Experience
i8 is where the comfort system stops feeling “thin over air” and starts feeling genuinely plush. Side sleeping improved immediately for me and for Mia: shoulders and hips sank in enough to reduce pressure, then the air chambers held alignment underneath. If you want adjustability but also want a forgiving surface, i8 is the first model here that consistently delivers that feel. If joint pain is a major factor, our arthritis and joint pain guide helps benchmark other comfort-focused beds.
Marcus liked the support but had to be careful for stomach time—the plush top can feel a bit floaty if you go too soft. Jenna said motion felt most muted here, and the surface stayed closer to neutral temperature than the lower models.
Pros & Cons
| Type | Points |
| Pros | Best pressure relief in this set (especially side sleep) |
| Stronger temperature control than c2/p5 | |
| Excellent for couples needing different firmness per side | |
| Cons | Expensive compared with standard mattresses |
| Too plush for some stomach sleepers | |
| More involved setup than a typical bed |
Details
- Approx. price (queen): Around $3,999 list; promotions vary
- Height: About 12"
- Feel range: Medium-plush to medium-firm (setting-dependent)
- Best for: Side sleepers; pressure relief needs; couples with different firmness
- Cooling: Temperature-balancing materials/cover
- Couples: Strong motion control vs. entry models
- Trial: Typically around 100 nights (confirm current terms)
- Warranty: 15-year limited warranty (staged coverage)
Review Score
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Support | 4.6 | Steady once tuned |
| Pressure Relief | 4.6 | Best joint comfort |
| Cooling | 4.5 | More temperature-neutral |
| Motion Isolation | 4.3 | Muted movement |
| Responsiveness | 4.3 | Easy, slightly slower |
| Edge Support | 4.5 | Secure edges |
| Durability | 4.4 | Premium, system-based |
| Smart Features / Adjustability | 4.8 | Excellent control |
| Value | 3.8 | Priced for features |
| Overall Score | 4.4 | Best for pressure relief |
Sleep Number Climate360 Smart Bed
Our Testing Experience
Climate360 adds active temperature control on top of the standard Sleep Number firmness slider. For Marcus, that was the point: he could cool his side while keeping his support firm. For me, the biggest surprise was how temperature shifts subtly changed feel—cooling can make the surface feel a touch firmer, while warming made it feel more inviting without changing alignment.
For couples, the combination of split firmness and split temperature is the selling feature. Jenna liked the calmer motion and the ability to keep her side neutral, but she did notice occasional low-level airflow noise when the system adjusted overnight.
Pros & Cons
| Type | Points |
| Pros | Active cooling and warming with dual zones |
| Strong adjustability for both firmness and temperature | |
| Excellent for hot sleepers and temperature-mismatched couples | |
| Cons | Five-figure price range for many setups |
| More complexity and components to maintain | |
| Occasional system noise for sensitive sleepers |
Details
- Approx. price (queen): Typically $10,000+; promotions vary
- Height: About 13"
- Feel range: Broad range; many land medium to medium-firm
- Best for: Hot sleepers; tech-focused sleepers; opposite-temp couples
- Cooling: Active cooling and warming; dual zones
- Couples: Strong motion control plus split temperature control
- Trial: Typically around 100 nights (confirm current terms)
- Warranty: 15-year limited warranty (staged coverage)
Review Score
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Support | 4.5 | Strong when calibrated |
| Pressure Relief | 4.5 | Comfortable when tuned |
| Cooling | 4.9 | Best-in-set |
| Motion Isolation | 4.2 | Strong; some noise |
| Responsiveness | 4.3 | Core adjusts quickly |
| Edge Support | 4.5 | Stable edge |
| Durability | 4.4 | Complex system |
| Smart Features / Adjustability | 5.0 | Maximum control |
| Value | 3.6 | Niche, premium |
| Overall Score | 4.5 | Best for temperature |
Compare Performance Scores of These Mattresses
| Mattress | Overall Score | Support | Pressure Relief | Cooling | Motion Isolation | Durability | Responsiveness |
| Sleep Number Classic Series c2 | 4.2 | 4.6 | 3.6 | 3.9 | 4.2 | 4.3 | 4.5 |
| Sleep Number Performance Series p5 | 4.3 | 4.5 | 4.2 | 4.0 | 4.3 | 4.3 | 4.4 |
| Sleep Number Innovation Series i8 | 4.4 | 4.6 | 4.6 | 4.5 | 4.3 | 4.4 | 4.3 |
| Sleep Number Climate360 Smart Bed | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.9 | 4.2 | 4.4 | 4.3 |
The scoring pattern is consistent with our feel notes: c2 is the firm-support value entry, p5 is the safest all-around pick, i8 is the comfort/pressure relief upgrade, and Climate360 is the tech-and-temperature specialist.
Best Picks
Best Sleep Number Mattress For Firm Back Support – Sleep Number c2
The c2 makes the most sense if you want adjustable firmness mainly to protect your lower back and keep your hips lifted. If you’re also comparing non-adjustable options, see our picks for back pain. If you want a more traditional fixed-feel option, our firm mattress list is a good cross-check.
Best Sleep Number Mattress For Mixed Sleepers – Sleep Number p5
p5 gave us the easiest “set it and sleep” range across back and side. It also handled couples better than c2. If you want to compare beyond Sleep Number, start with our best mattresses for couples guide.
Best Sleep Number Mattress For Pressure Relief And Cooling – Sleep Number i8
i8 was the most forgiving for shoulders and hips while keeping support underneath. If pressure relief is your main driver, compare it to our picks for hip pain. If you’re primarily on your side, our side sleeper guide helps benchmark other options. If shoulders are your main issue, see our shoulder pain list.
Best Sleep Number Mattress For Hot Sleepers And Tech Enthusiasts – Sleep Number Climate360
Climate360 is the most distinct model here because active temperature control can change how the bed feels through the night. If you’re comparing setups, start with our best adjustable beds guide. If temperature is your deciding factor, also review our best cooling mattresses.
How to Choose the Sleep Number Mattress?
The main decision isn’t whether it can adjust—each one can. If you’re still sorting out basics like feel and firmness, start with our mattress firmness guide. Then use how to choose a mattress to match cushioning and climate control to your sleep style.
If you’re primarily on your back and like firm support, start with c2 (lower cost, direct feel). If you switch positions or share the bed, p5 is usually the easiest fit. If you’re a side sleeper or you need more joint comfort, i8 is the upgrade that most clearly changes pressure relief. If temperature is your pain point—or you and your partner want opposite temperature settings—Climate360 is in a category of its own.
Matching profiles based on our testing:
- Light-weight side sleeper: i8 was the easiest on shoulders at lower settings.
- Average-weight back sleeper: c2 for firm/direct support, or p5 for extra cushion.
- Hot sleeper in a warm room: Climate360 first; i8 second.
- Heavier couple: p5 balanced support and motion control well.
Related Post: What Mattress Should I Buy
Limitations
These beds are at their best for sleepers who want fine-tuned firmness. If you want a classic coil “springiness” or an ultra-firm, rigid feel, an adjustable air system won’t replicate that sensation exactly.
They also aren’t budget mattresses. Even the entry c2 sits above many solid foam and hybrid options. The value improves if you will use the adjustability regularly; it’s harder to justify if you just want a comfortable, fixed-feel mattress.
Finally, long-term satisfaction depends on comfort preference and willingness to maintain a system (hoses, pumps, and—in Climate360—more electronics). If you prefer a simple “set it once” bed, this category can feel like overkill.
Policies at a Glance
| Mattress | Shipping (Cost and Region) | Trial Period | Return Policy / Fees | Warranty Length | Notable Conditions |
| Sleep Number Classic Series c2 | In-home delivery/setup are common; availability and fees vary by region | Typically around 100 nights from delivery | Returns may involve fees; delivery/setup charges may be nonrefundable | 15-year limited warranty | Accessories and bases can follow separate rules |
| Sleep Number Performance Series p5 | Similar in-home delivery structure; varies by ZIP code | Typically around 100 nights | Returns may involve fees; confirm current terms before ordering | 15-year limited warranty | Policies can differ by base and accessories |
| Sleep Number Innovation Series i8 | Delivery/setup are common; availability varies by region | Typically around 100 nights | Returns may involve fees; confirm current terms before ordering | 15-year limited warranty | Some components may have specific coverage terms |
| Sleep Number Climate360 Smart Bed | More complex delivery/installation; availability varies by region | Typically around 100 nights | Returns may involve fees; system removal can be part of the process | 15-year limited warranty | Setup requirements and care guidelines matter |
Policy details can change and can vary by region and promotion. Before buying, confirm the trial window, the full delivery/setup cost, and any return or removal fees so you understand the true “all-in” risk.
Related Post: Mattress Warranty Guide
Related Post: Mattress Trial Guide
FAQs
1. Are Sleep Number mattresses actually good for back pain?
They can be—if you take time to find the setting that keeps your hips lifted and your spine neutral. In our group, c2 and p5 helped the most with “firm support” back needs, while i8 added comfort on top of that.
Related Post: The 10 Best Mattresses for Back Pain
2. Which Sleep Number mattress is best for side sleepers?
i8 was the most consistently comfortable for side sleep in our tests. The added cushioning reduced shoulder and hip pressure at lower settings without sacrificing alignment.
Related Post: The 8 Best Mattresses for Side Sleepers
3. How noisy are Sleep Number mattresses?
Once you stop actively adjusting, noise is usually minimal. The pump is most noticeable during firmness changes. Climate360 can add occasional airflow noise when the climate system adjusts overnight.
4. Do Sleep Number beds sleep hot?
It depends on model and setting. c2 felt more neutral because it has less foam up top. i8 managed temperature better than entry models. Climate360 is the outlier because it can actively cool and warm.
Related Post: The 8 Best Mattresses for Hot Sleepers
5. Is setup difficult?
Compared with a standard mattress, yes—there are air components and (for Climate360) additional climate hardware. Most buyers use in-home delivery/setup, which helps, but plan for a more involved installation than a typical bed.
6. Are they good for couples with different firmness preferences?
Yes. Split firmness is one of the biggest benefits. p5 and i8 were the easiest for couples in our test group, and Climate360 adds split temperature as well.
Related Post: The 8 Best Mattresses for Couples
7. How often do you need to change your Sleep Number setting?
Most people adjust more in week one, then settle into a small range. We changed settings after workouts, travel, or long desk days, but didn’t need daily adjustments once we found a stable baseline.
8. What base or foundation works best?
You need a stable, compatible support surface. Adjustable bases can pair well, but the key is avoiding sagging foundations that undermine alignment. If you’re also verifying fit, our mattress sizes and dimensions guide is a good quick reference.
9. Is edge support strong?
Edge support was solid across all four models, especially at mid-firm or firmer settings. Softer numbers reduce edge firmness slightly, but we didn’t see major collapse.
10. Are they worth the price versus normal mattresses?
They’re worth it when you’ll actually use adjustability (and, for Climate360, the temperature features). If you want a fixed feel and simple ownership, many foam/hybrid mattresses deliver better value.
Related Post: The 9 Best Adjustable Beds
Related Post
