by Disclosure: MattressNut is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.
Purple's defining technology is the GelFlex Grid — a grid of hyper-elastic polymer that doesn't compress under pressure the way foam does. What changes between Purple models is how much Grid you get and what sits beneath it. Understanding those differences is the key to knowing whether a Purple mattress is worth your money — or whether a different brand does more for the same budget.
The Purple Mattress Lineup in 2026
Purple currently offers three main collections: the Purple (Original), Purple Plus, Purple 3, and Purple 4 — plus the Restore and Restore Plus as the ultra-premium tier. The core difference between them is Grid layer thickness.
| Model | Grid Thickness | Total Height | Queen Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purple (Original) | 2" | 9.25" | ~$1,099 |
| Purple Plus | 2" + foam layer | 11" | ~$1,399 |
| Purple 3 | 3" | 11" | ~$1,799 |
| Purple 4 | 4" | 12" | ~$2,299 |
| Restore | 3" | 13" | ~$2,599 |
| Restore Plus | 4" | 14" | ~$3,199 |
What Does More Grid Thickness Actually Do?
A thicker Grid means more pressure-relieving surface area and more weight distribution. At 2", the Original's Grid is thin enough that firm foam underneath still influences the feel significantly. At 3" and 4", the Grid dominates — you feel primarily the Grid, not the foam below. For side sleepers or anyone with shoulder/hip pressure, thicker Grid translates to measurably less pressure point activation. For back and stomach sleepers who need firm support, the Original or Plus may actually suit them better because the thinner Grid allows the support layers to do their job.
Purple Original: Who It's Actually For
At $1,099, the Purple Original is the brand entry point. The 2" Grid is enough to demonstrate the unique Purple feel, but it doesn't deliver the dramatic pressure relief the brand is known for. It suits back sleepers at average weight (130–230 lbs) and those who are genuinely curious about the Grid feel but don't want to commit at the higher price tiers. Strict side sleepers should skip it — the 2" Grid on a firm foam base won't adequately relieve shoulder pressure.
Purple 3 vs. Purple 4: The Most Important Comparison
The Purple 3 and 4 are where serious buyers focus. The difference is 1" of additional Grid at a ~$500 premium. For most side sleepers up to 220 lbs, the Purple 3 is sufficient — the 3" Grid handles shoulder and hip pressure well. The Purple 4 benefits primarily heavier side sleepers (220+ lbs) and those with documented hip pain who've found the Purple 3 insufficient. At $2,299 queen, the Purple 4 enters the same price range as the Saatva Classic with significantly different support characteristics.
Purple vs. Saatva: A Different Kind of Support
The Purple GelFlex Grid is a pressure-relief technology; the Saatva Classic's dual coil system is a support and durability technology. They serve different primary needs. Purple excels at pressure relief for side sleepers. Saatva excels at spinal alignment for back sleepers, long-term durability, and post-purchase support. At comparable price points ($2,000+), the Saatva adds white-glove delivery, a lifetime warranty, and a 365-night trial versus Purple's 100-night trial. For sleepers who are primarily back or stomach sleepers, Saatva typically wins. See our detailed Saatva vs. Purple comparison for the full breakdown.
Consider the Saatva Classic at This Price Point
Lifetime warranty, 365-night trial, white-glove delivery — no other brand matches all three at this price.
Purple Cooling Claims: What's Real
Purple's Grid does genuinely improve airflow compared to solid foam — the open grid structure allows air movement that closed-cell foam blocks. Purple models sleep cooler than most all-foam mattresses. However, at the Restore tier, the addition of a foam transition layer can partially offset that advantage. If cooling is the primary concern, the Purple 3 or 4 (without additional foam layers) is the most effective option in the lineup.
Purple Trial and Warranty
All Purple models come with a 100-night trial and a 10-year warranty. The warranty is non-prorated, which is better than Helix's prorated policy but significantly shorter than Saatva's lifetime warranty. Returns during the trial are free.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Purple 3 and Purple 4?
The Purple 4 has 4" of GelFlex Grid versus 3" in the Purple 3. The extra inch benefits heavier sleepers (220+ lbs) and those with documented hip pain. For most side sleepers at average weight, the Purple 3 delivers the same pressure relief at $500 less.
Is the Purple Original worth buying?
It depends. The Original's 2" Grid gives you the unique Purple feel at the lowest entry price, but it doesn't deliver the full pressure-relief benefit. If pressure relief for side sleeping is your priority, spending up to the Purple 3 is a better use of money.
Does Purple sleep hot?
Purple's GelFlex Grid sleeps cooler than all-foam alternatives because the open grid allows airflow. It's not as cool as a traditional innerspring, but notably better than Nectar or most memory foam options.
How does Purple compare to Saatva?
They serve different priorities. Purple excels at pressure relief for side sleepers. Saatva excels at spinal alignment for back sleepers and long-term durability. Saatva's trial (365 nights vs. Purple's 100) and lifetime warranty make it lower-risk at similar price points.
What is the Purple Restore mattress?
Restore and Restore Plus are Purple's premium tier — same Grid thicknesses as Purple 3 and 4 respectively, but with a thicker overall profile (13–14") and added foam transition layers. The main benefit is more total cushion depth. The price jump ($300–$900 over comparable Grid models) is hard to justify for most sleepers.