Eight Sleep vs Sleep Number I8: Top 3 Features in 2024

Eight Sleep vs. Sleep Number I8: Which Smart Mattress Should You Choose?

When considering Eight Sleep vs Sleep Number I8, weigh their unique features, benefits, and drawbacks. If you’re a savvy shopper seeking a smart mattress this Memorial Day, here’s a quick comparison:

• Price: Eight Sleep Pod 4 starts at $2,449; Sleep Number I8 starts at $3,399.
• Trial Period: Eight Sleep offers 30 nights; Sleep Number gives you 100 nights.
• Warranty: Eight Sleep covers you for up to 5 years with an improved plan; Sleep Number provides a 15-year warranty.
• Monthly Subscription: Eight Sleep requires an additional monthly app subscription for its Autopilot features, which can cost between $15 to $24.
• Cooling and Heating: Both offer advanced temperature control, though Eight Sleep emphasizes dual-zone cooling and heating.

Greetings! I’m Ben Trapskin, the creator of Yawnder. After navigating through my own challenging mattress shopping experiences and years as a librarian, I’ve dedicated myself to guiding others in finding the best sleep products. Today, let’s dive deeper into the features and benefits of the Eight Sleep Pod Pro and the Sleep Number I8 to help you make an informed choice.

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Key Features Comparison

Cooling Technology

When it comes to cooling technology, Eight Sleep Pod Pro and Sleep Number I8 take different approaches to keep you comfortable.

Eight Sleep Pod Pro uses an active cooling system that involves water-filled channels. This system allows for precise temperature control, from a chilly 55°F to a toasty 110°F. The standout feature here is the dual-zone cooling, which means you and your partner can set different temperatures for your sides of the bed. Smart sensors detect heat fluctuations and adjust the temperature to maintain your chosen climate throughout the night.

On the other hand, Sleep Number I8 uses a more passive method with layers of ceramic gel infused into the foam to draw heat away from your body. While this does offer some temperature regulation, it lacks the active climate control found in the Eight Sleep Pod Pro. If you want true temperature control, you’ll need to upgrade to the Sleep Number Climate360, which comes with a hefty price tag.

Smart Features

Both mattresses come with a range of smart features, but they cater to different needs.

Eight Sleep Pod Pro offers comprehensive biometric tracking. It monitors heart rate, heart rate variability (HRV), respiratory rate, and sleep stages. The data is displayed on an intuitive app that also provides sleep coaching. The thermo alarm feature uses gradual temperature changes to wake you up, making mornings much gentler.

Sleep Number I8 includes the SleepIQ technology, which tracks your sleep duration, heart rate, and breathing rate. While it provides useful insights, it lacks the depth and range of metrics offered by Eight Sleep. The app assigns a “Sleep IQ” score but doesn’t track specific sleep stages or HRV trends.

Pricing and Financing

Price is a significant factor in the Eight Sleep vs. Sleep Number I8 debate.

• Eight Sleep Pod Pro starts at $2,449.
• Sleep Number I8 starts at $3,399.

While Eight Sleep is generally more affordable, it requires a monthly subscription (between $15 to $24) for features like Autopilot, which adjusts the temperature dynamically based on your sleep patterns.

Sleep Number’s higher initial cost may be offset by its longer warranty and no monthly fees for basic features. However, upgrading to the Climate360 for advanced cooling will set you back $9,999 for a queen size.

Both companies offer monthly financing options to make these high-tech mattresses more accessible. Additional costs to consider include bases and any extra subscriptions for improved features.

Comfort and Support

When comparing Eight Sleep vs. Sleep Number I8, comfort and support are crucial factors. Let’s explore the specifics of firmness levels and pressure relief to see how each mattress stacks up.

Firmness Levels

Eight Sleep Pod Pro is a smart mattress cover that adapts to your existing mattress. This means the firmness level is determined by the mattress you already own. If you love the feel of your current mattress but want to add smart features and temperature control, Eight Sleep is a great choice.

On the other hand, Sleep Number I8 offers adjustable firmness through its air chamber technology. You can adjust the firmness from soft to firm with the click of a button. This is perfect for those who need to change their mattress firmness regularly due to varying support needs. For example, if you have a sore back one night, you can make the mattress firmer for better support.

Key Takeaways:

• Eight Sleep Pod Pro: Firmness depends on your existing mattress.
• Sleep Number I8: Adjustable firmness from soft to firm via air chambers.

Pressure Relief

Pressure relief is essential for a good night’s sleep, especially for side sleepers and those with joint pain. Here’s how the two compare:

Eight Sleep Pod Pro relies on the pressure relief capabilities of your current mattress. If your mattress already offers good contouring support, the Pod Pro will improve your sleep with its cooling and smart features. However, if your mattress lacks in pressure relief, you might not get the full benefit.

Sleep Number I8 excels in pressure relief due to its air chamber technology and foam layers. The mattress adjusts to your body’s contours, providing excellent support for pressure points like shoulders and hips. This makes it a good option for side sleepers and those who need extra cushioning.

Key Takeaways:

• Eight Sleep Pod Pro: Pressure relief depends on your existing mattress.
• Sleep Number I8: Excellent pressure relief with adjustable air chambers and foam layers.

Mattress Layers

The construction of each mattress also affects comfort and support:

• Eight Sleep Pod Pro: Adds a smart layer over your existing mattress. It includes a water-based cooling system and biometric sensors but doesn’t change the core structure of your mattress.
• Sleep Number I8: Features multiple layers, including a comfort layer with memory foam and a support layer with air chambers. This combination provides a balanced feel of softness and support.

Key Takeaways:

• Eight Sleep Pod Pro: Improves your current mattress with smart features.
• Sleep Number I8: Multiple layers for a balanced feel of comfort and support.

Adjustable Firmness

Adjustable firmness is a major selling point for the Sleep Number I8. The air chambers allow you to fine-tune the mattress to your exact preference. Whether you need a softer feel or a firmer support, you can adjust it with a simple control.

In contrast, the Eight Sleep Pod Pro doesn’t offer adjustable firmness. It improves the existing mattress but doesn’t change its fundamental characteristics.

Key Takeaways:

• Eight Sleep Pod Pro: No adjustable firmness.
• Sleep Number I8: Fully adjustable firmness with air chambers.

Memory Foam Quality

Memory foam quality can make or break a mattress’s comfort level.

• Eight Sleep Pod Pro: Relies on the quality of your existing mattress’s memory foam.
• Sleep Number I8: Includes high-quality memory foam layers designed to provide excellent contouring and support.

Key Takeaways:

• Eight Sleep Pod Pro: Memory foam quality depends on your existing mattress.
• Sleep Number I8: High-quality memory foam for superior comfort.

Personal Preference

The choice between Eight Sleep vs. Sleep Number I8 comes down to personal preference. If you love your current mattress and want to add advanced cooling and smart features, Eight Sleep is a great option. If you need a new mattress with adjustable firmness and excellent pressure relief, Sleep Number I8 is worth considering.

Key Takeaways:

• Eight Sleep Pod Pro: Best for those who want to improve their existing mattress.
• Sleep Number I8: Ideal for those looking for adjustable firmness and new mattress support.

In the next section, we’ll explore user experiences and reviews to see what real customers have to say about these two smart mattresses.

User Experience and Reviews

Customer Feedback

Eight Sleep Pod Pro and Sleep Number I8 have garnered a variety of reviews from users, reflecting their unique features and customer experiences.

Eight Sleep Pod Pro: Many users praise the Pod Pro for its advanced cooling technology and detailed sleep tracking. For instance, one user mentioned, “The Pod Pro’s ability to keep my bed cool throughout the night has significantly improved my sleep quality.” However, some users noted that the Pod Pro can make their existing mattress feel firmer, which might not suit everyone.

Sleep Number I8: Users appreciate the adjustable firmness and the comfort of the air chambers. One reviewer stated, “The ability to adjust the firmness on each side of the bed is a game-changer for me and my partner.” On the downside, some users experienced technical issues with the air pumps and found customer support lacking in responsiveness.

Common Complaints:

• Eight Sleep Pod Pro: Higher initial cost and ongoing subscription fees.
• Sleep Number I8: Technical glitches with air pumps and inconsistent customer support.

Pros and Cons:

• Eight Sleep Pod Pro:
  • Pros: Advanced cooling, detailed sleep tracking, easy app usability.
  • Cons: High cost, potential firmness issues, subscription required.
• Sleep Number I8:
  • Pros: Adjustable firmness, excellent pressure relief, long warranty.
  • Cons: Technical issues, mixed customer support experiences.

Trial Periods and Returns

Both Eight Sleep and Sleep Number offer trial periods, but there are key differences:

Eight Sleep Pod Pro: Offers a 30-night trial period. If you decide it’s not for you, you can return it for a full refund. However, opened or used Pod Covers are not returnable, which might be a drawback for some.

Sleep Number I8: Provides a 100-night trial period, giving you more time to decide if it’s the right fit. Returns during this period are possible, but be aware of potential fees, such as delivery and restocking charges.

Return Policies:

• Eight Sleep Pod Pro: Full refund within 30 days if unopened. Opened covers are non-returnable.
• Sleep Number I8: 100-night trial with possible delivery and restocking fees.

Satisfaction Guarantees:

• Eight Sleep Pod Pro: Limited satisfaction guarantee due to the non-returnable policy for opened items.
• Sleep Number I8: More flexible with a longer trial period but watch out for additional fees.

App Usability

The usability of the accompanying apps can make a big difference in your overall experience.

Eight Sleep App: Known for its polished and intuitive interface. It offers detailed sleep insights, temperature control, and troubleshooting steps. One user remarked, “The Eight Sleep app is incredibly user-friendly and provides valuable sleep data every morning.”

Sleep Number App: While functional, it has been described as less polished compared to Eight Sleep‘s app. It provides basic sleep metrics and allows for firmness adjustments but lacks detailed support information.

Key Takeaways:

• Eight Sleep App: Highly intuitive, detailed sleep insights, excellent user interface.
• Sleep Number App: Basic functionality, less polished, lacks detailed support.

Setup Process and Customer Support

The setup process and customer support can significantly impact your experience with these smart mattresses.

Eight Sleep Pod Pro: Generally straightforward setup. Users have reported minimal issues, and the app guides you through the process. Customer support has mixed reviews, with some users praising quick responses and others noting delays.

Sleep Number I8: Setup can be more complex, especially due to the air chambers and pumps. One user shared their experience: “Setting up the Sleep Number I8 was challenging, especially when one of the air pumps malfunctioned.” Customer support also has mixed reviews, with some users experiencing long wait times for assistance.

Key Takeaways:

• Eight Sleep Pod Pro: Easy setup, mixed customer support experiences.
• Sleep Number I8: More complex setup, varied customer support feedback.

Frequently Asked Questions about Eight Sleep vs. Sleep Number I8

Is there a better bed than Sleep Number?

When comparing smart beds, many people wonder if there’s a better alternative to Sleep Number. Airpedic is one such option. Airpedic beds offer personalized sleep solutions with adjustable firmness levels, similar to Sleep Number. However, Airpedic beds also include multiple air chambers, allowing for more precise adjustments and better support for different parts of the body.

Airpedic beds are especially beneficial for couples with differing sleep preferences. Each side can be customized independently, similar to the dual-zone adjustments in Sleep Number beds. Additionally, Airpedic uses high-quality memory foam, which provides excellent pressure relief and support.

What are the cons of Sleep Number?

While Sleep Number beds have many advantages, they also have some drawbacks:

• Memory Foam Drawbacks: Some users find the memory foam layers in Sleep Number beds too firm or too soft, depending on their personal preference.
• Position Switching: Adjusting the firmness frequently can be cumbersome, especially if you change sleep positions often.
• Support for Stomach Sleepers: Stomach sleepers may find it challenging to get the right level of support, even with adjustable firmness.
• Higher-Weight Sleepers: Some higher-weight sleepers report that the air chambers don’t provide sufficient support, leading to discomfort.

How much does Eight Sleep cost?

Eight Sleep offers several models, each with its own pricing. Here’s a breakdown:

• Pod 2: The Pod 2 is an earlier model and is generally more affordable. Prices start around $2,149 for a queen size.
• Pod 3: The Pod 3 Cover, which adds smart features to your existing mattress, starts at $1,745. The full mattress version starts at $2,449.
• PerfectFit: This model is designed to fit most standard mattresses and starts at around $1,745.

Eight Sleep also requires a monthly subscription for the Autopilot feature, which adjusts the temperature automatically. The subscription costs $15 per month for the Standard plan or $24 per month for the Improved plan.

Additional Costs:

• Base: If you need a compatible base for your mattress, expect to pay extra.
• Bedding: Specialized bedding to maximize the cooling and heating features can also add to the cost.

Autopilot Subscription:

• Standard Plan: $15/month
• Improved Plan: $24/month

In summary, while Eight Sleep offers advanced cooling and smart features, it does come with ongoing costs that you should factor into your budget.

In the next section, we’ll dig into the Conclusion, summarizing our findings and helping you make the best choice between Eight Sleep and Sleep Number I8.

Conclusion

After a deep dive into Eight Sleep vs. Sleep Number I8, it’s clear that both have their unique strengths, but the choice boils down to your specific needs.

Final Thoughts

Eight Sleep stands out with its advanced cooling technology and smart features. The water-based system in the Eight Sleep Pod 4 offers precise temperature control, making it ideal for those who struggle with overheating or extreme weather conditions. The ability to slip the Pod 4 onto your existing mattress is also a big plus if you love your current bed but need better temperature regulation.

Sleep Number I8, on the other hand, excels in adjustable firmness and support. If your support needs change frequently or if you and your partner have different sleep styles, the dual-zone adjustments of the I8 can be a game-changer. The Sleep Number I8 is a full mattress, making it a solid choice if you’re in the market for an entirely new bed.

Best Choice

Cooling Technology: If cooling is your top priority, Eight Sleep is the clear winner. Its water-based cooling system outperforms the air ducts in Sleep Number beds, and the dual-zone feature ensures both you and your partner can sleep comfortably.

Smart Features: When it comes to smart features, Eight Sleep also takes the lead. Its app offers comprehensive sleep tracking, including heart rate variability (HRV) and sleep stages. The Autopilot feature, although requiring a subscription, adjusts the temperature automatically to keep you at your optimal sleep temperature.

Comfort and Support: For adjustable firmness and support, Sleep Number I8 is best. Its ability to change firmness levels on the fly makes it versatile for various support needs, especially for those who have different preferences from night to night.

Yawnder

At Yawnder, we aim to help you make informed decisions about your sleep products. Whether you prioritize cooling technology, smart features, or adjustable support, we have detailed reviews and guides to assist you.

In conclusion, if you need precise temperature control and advanced sleep tracking, go with Eight Sleep. If adjustable firmness and a new mattress are what you need, Sleep Number I8 is your best bet. Both options offer unique benefits, so consider your specific sleep needs and preferences to make the best choice for a restful night’s sleep.