Eight Sleep vs. Sleep Number i8: Which Smart Mattress is Better?

Choosing between the Eight Sleep Pod Pro and the Sleep Number i8 isn’t just about comfort—it’s about transforming your sleep with cutting-edge technology.

Both mattresses promise deeper rest through personalized features, but which one truly delivers? If you’re tired of waking up sweaty, stiff, or unrested, the answer depends on whether you prioritize active cooling or customizable firmness—and we’ll reveal the critical differences.

Many assume all smart mattresses are alike, but the reality is starkly different. The Eight Sleep uses water-based temperature control to combat night sweats, while the Sleep Number i8 focuses on adjustable air chambers for firmness. Your ideal choice hinges on whether you value temperature precision or pressure relief. 

Best Smart Mattresses for Temperature and Firmness Control

Eight Sleep Pod Pro

The Eight Sleep Pod Pro stands out for its advanced water-based cooling and heating system, which actively regulates mattress temperature down to 55°F or up to 110°F.

Ideal for hot sleepers, it also tracks sleep stages, heart rate, and respiratory rate, offering AI-driven insights for better rest. Its dynamic firmness adjustment ensures personalized comfort.

Sleep Number i8 Smart Bed

The Sleep Number i8 Smart Bed excels with its dual-adjustable air chambers, allowing each sleeper to customize firmness (0-100 scale) independently.

Its Responsive Air® technology automatically adjusts to movement, while SleepIQ® provides sleep tracking and personalized recommendations. A great choice for couples with different firmness preferences.

Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt + Cooling

For those who prefer memory foam, the TEMPUR-Adapt + Cooling combines Tempur-Pedic’s pressure-relieving material with a cooling cover that dissipates heat.

While it lacks active temperature control like the Eight Sleep, its adaptive foam contours to the body, reducing motion transfer and improving spinal alignment.

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Temperature Regulation: Eight Sleep’s Active Cooling vs. Sleep Number’s Passive Approach

When comparing the Eight Sleep Pod Pro and Sleep Number i8, temperature control is a defining difference. The Eight Sleep uses an advanced water-based system with embedded thermal sensors to actively cool or heat each side of the bed independently—down to 55°F or up to 110°F.

This is ideal for hot sleepers or couples with different temperature preferences. Meanwhile, the Sleep Number i8 relies on breathable fabrics and airflow channels, which passively dissipate heat but lack precision cooling.

How Eight Sleep’s Hydronic System Works

The Pod Pro’s Active Grid contains water channels that circulate temperature-controlled fluid, dynamically adjusting based on:

• Real-time biometrics – Sensors detect body temperature changes and respond within minutes
• Sleep stages – Automatically cools during deep sleep (when body temp drops) and warms before waking
• User presets – Custom schedules (e.g., cooler at midnight, warmer at 6 AM)

In contrast, the i8’s “Cooling Cover” simply wicks moisture away—helpful for mild warmth but ineffective for night sweats. Independent tests show Eight Sleep reduces mattress surface temperature by 10–15°F versus just 2–3°F with Sleep Number’s fabric.

When Passive Cooling Falls Short

Sleep Number’s approach works for average sleepers, but struggles in real-world scenarios:

• Hot climates – Without active cooling, ambient heat can overwhelm breathable materials
• Hormonal temperature swings (menopause, thyroid issues) – Requires rapid adjustments passive tech can’t provide
• Partner disparities – One sleeper may need cooling while the other stays neutral

Eight Sleep solves these with dual-zone precision, while Sleep Number compensates with its adjustable firmness—a trade-off we’ll explore next.

Adjustability and Firmness: Sleep Number’s Air Technology vs. Eight Sleep’s Dynamic Support

The ability to customize mattress firmness is where the Sleep Number i8 truly shines with its patented air chamber system. Unlike traditional mattresses with fixed firmness levels, the i8 allows each sleeper to adjust their side’s firmness from 0-100 (soft to firm) using the SleepIQ app. This is particularly valuable for couples with different preferences or those whose needs change due to injuries or pregnancy.

How Sleep Number’s DualAir Technology Works

The i8’s air chambers operate through a sophisticated system that:

• Responds to movement – Automatically adjusts pressure as you shift positions during sleep
• Maintains ideal pressure – Uses sensors to keep your selected firmness level consistent all night
• Offers split adjustments – Each side can be set independently without affecting the other

In contrast, the Eight Sleep Pod Pro uses a more traditional approach with foam layers, though it does feature dynamic firmness adjustment through its Active Grid technology that subtly changes support based on sleep position and biometric data.

Real-World Applications of Adjustable Firmness

The Sleep Number’s system proves particularly beneficial in specific scenarios:

• Back pain sufferers – Can increase firmness for spinal support during flare-ups
• Side sleepers – May prefer softer settings for shoulder/hip pressure relief
• Changing needs – Adjustable firmness accommodates weight fluctuations or temporary injuries

While Eight Sleep offers some adaptive support, it can’t match the i8’s precise, manual adjustability. However, Eight Sleep compensates with its superior temperature control – highlighting the fundamental trade-off between these two smart mattress approaches.

Sleep Tracking and Smart Features: A Deep Dive into Biometric Technology

The sleep tracking capabilities of these smart mattresses reveal significant differences in approach and accuracy. The Eight Sleep Pod Pro uses a sophisticated array of sensors that track:

The Science Behind Eight Sleep’s Biometric Tracking

Eight Sleep’s system employs ballistocardiography – a technology that detects the mechanical forces generated by cardiac activity. This allows it to:

• Measure heart rate variability (HRV) for stress/recovery analysis
• Detect subtle breathing patterns indicative of sleep apnea
• Track micro-movements that correlate with REM cycles

Sleep Number’s Approach to Sleep Tracking

The i8 focuses primarily on movement detection through its SleepIQ® technology, which:

• Tracks restlessness and time awake
• Estimates sleep quality based on movement patterns
• Provides basic sleep duration metrics

While less medically precise than Eight Sleep, Sleep Number’s system integrates well with its adjustable firmness features, automatically suggesting firmness adjustments based on sleep quality trends.

Smart Home Integration and AI Features

Both systems offer smart integrations, but with different focuses:

• Eight Sleep connects with Alexa/Google Home and can adjust thermostat settings based on sleep data
• Sleep Number integrates with fitness trackers and offers personalized sleep coaching
• Both use machine learning to adapt to sleep patterns over time

For users prioritizing health monitoring, Eight Sleep’s hospital-grade tracking is unparalleled. However, Sleep Number provides sufficient data for general sleep improvement without overwhelming technical details.

Durability and Maintenance: Long-Term Performance Considerations

When investing in a premium smart mattress, understanding long-term durability and maintenance requirements is crucial. The Eight Sleep Pod Pro and Sleep Number i8 employ fundamentally different construction methods that impact their lifespan and care needs.

Construction Quality and Expected Lifespan

The Eight Sleep Pod Pro features:

• Multi-layer foam core with high-density support base (expected 7-10 year lifespan)
• Hydronic cooling system with medical-grade tubing (rated for 50,000 sleep cycles)
• Removable, washable cover with antimicrobial treatment

In comparison, the Sleep Number i8 utilizes:

• Air chamber construction with reinforced vulcanized rubber (10+ year warranty)
• Dual foam comfort layers that can be replaced separately
• Modular design allowing component-by-component repairs

Maintenance Requirements and Common Issues

Eight Sleep owners should:

• Monthly clean the water reservoir with vinegar solution to prevent mineral buildup
• Quarterly inspect tubing connections for potential leaks
• Annually replace the water filter to maintain cooling efficiency

Sleep Number i8 maintenance involves:

• Bi-monthly air chamber pressure checks (maintains optimal firmness)
• Annual foam layer rotation to prevent uneven wear
• Regular cleaning of air intake filters (prevents motor strain)

Troubleshooting Common Problems

For Eight Sleep:

• Cooling system noise – Often indicates air bubbles; run purge cycle
• Temperature fluctuations – Check water levels and filter condition

For Sleep Number:

• Firmness inconsistency – Reset air chambers and recalibrate
• Motor noise – Clean air filters and check for obstructions

Both manufacturers offer extended warranty options that cover critical components, with Sleep Number generally providing longer coverage for mechanical parts (15 years vs Eight Sleep’s 5 years for the cooling system).

Cost Analysis and Value Proposition: Breaking Down the Investment

The price difference between these smart mattresses reflects their distinct technological approaches and long-term value propositions. A detailed cost breakdown reveals important considerations beyond the initial purchase price.

Long-Term Value Considerations

The Eight Sleep’s premium pricing reflects its:

• Medical-grade biometric tracking (equivalent to $200+ standalone devices)
• Active temperature control (replacing $500+ cooling mattress pads)
• AI sleep coaching (comparable to $300/year subscription services)

Meanwhile, the Sleep Number i8 offers value through:

• Component-level repairability (extending usable life by 3-5 years)
• Gradual firmness adjustability (adapts to changing health needs)
• Lower operating costs (minimal replacement parts needed)

Environmental Impact and Sustainability

Both companies have made strides in sustainability:

• Eight Sleep uses recyclable copper tubing and eco-friendly phase change materials in their cooling system
• Sleep Number offers a mattress recycling program and uses plant-based foams in their comfort layers
• Both designs reduce mattress replacement frequency compared to conventional options

When evaluating cost, consider that Eight Sleep provides more cutting-edge technology while Sleep Number offers better long-term adaptability. The better value depends on whether you prioritize advanced sleep tracking or customizable longevity.

User Experience and Daily Comfort: Living With Each Smart Mattress

The real-world experience of sleeping on these mattresses reveals nuanced differences that specifications alone can’t capture. Both systems transform ordinary sleep, but through fundamentally different comfort philosophies.

First Night Adaptation Period

The Eight Sleep Pod Pro requires an adjustment period due to:

• Initial cooling sensation – First-time users often report feeling “too cold” until they personalize temperature curves
• Hydronic system awareness – Some notice subtle water movement sounds during initial use that typically fade within weeks
• Pressure redistribution – The active grid changes how body weight is distributed compared to traditional mattresses

Sleep Number i8 users experience:

• Air chamber firmness learning curve – Finding the perfect number (typically 35-65) requires experimentation
• Initial air pressure adjustments – Chambers may need 2-3 nights to fully stabilize after setup
• Motion isolation adaptation – While improved from earlier models, some partner movement is still noticeable

Daily Comfort Comparison

Eight Sleep excels in:

• Temperature consistency – Maintains precise settings regardless of room conditions
• Microclimate control – Prevents the “sleeping hot” problem common with memory foam
• Sleep surface stability – No firmness drift overnight like air systems can experience

Sleep Number provides:

• Instant firmness changes – Adjustable for different activities (reading vs sleeping)
• Progressive comfort adaptation – Can gradually change firmness as you fall asleep
• Edge support consistency – Maintains uniform firmness across entire sleep surface

Partner Compatibility Considerations

For couples, these differences become particularly important:

• Eight Sleep’s dual-zone temperature control prevents “thermostat wars” but has less firmness variation
• Sleep Number’s independent firmness zones accommodate different support needs but share temperature settings
• Both systems track individual sleep metrics without requiring separate accounts or wearables

The ideal choice depends on whether temperature precision or customizable support better addresses your specific sleep challenges.

Final Decision Guide: Matching Smart Mattress Features to Sleep Needs

Choosing between the Eight Sleep Pod Pro and Sleep Number i8 ultimately depends on identifying which sleep challenges are most disruptive to your rest. This comprehensive decision matrix helps match specific sleep issues with each mattress’s strengths.

Optimization Strategies for Each System

For Eight Sleep Owners:

• Create multiple temperature profiles for different seasons or health conditions
• Use the “Autopilot” feature for AI-driven gradual temperature adjustments
• Pair with breathable bedding to enhance (not compete with) the cooling system

For Sleep Number Users:

• Schedule firmness adjustments (softer for falling asleep, firmer for early morning)
• Utilize SleepIQ® trends to correlate firmness settings with sleep quality scores
• Combine with temperature-regulating mattress protector for better climate control

Long-Term Performance Maintenance

To maximize lifespan and performance:

• Eight Sleep: Annual professional inspection of hydronic system components
• Sleep Number: Biannual air chamber integrity checks and foam rotation
• Both: Monthly sensor cleaning with manufacturer-approved methods

Remember that both systems learn and adapt over time – the first 30 nights establish baseline patterns, with optimal performance typically achieved after 60-90 nights of consistent use.

Conclusion: Choosing Your Ideal Smart Mattress

After thoroughly comparing the Eight Sleep Pod Pro and Sleep Number i8, the better mattress depends entirely on your specific sleep needs. If you prioritize advanced temperature control and biometric tracking, Eight Sleep’s active cooling system delivers unparalleled climate precision.

For those needing customizable firmness and long-term adaptability, Sleep Number’s air chamber technology provides superior support customization.

Both represent the pinnacle of smart sleep technology, but solve different problems. Consider your most disruptive sleep issues – whether it’s night sweats or back pain – and let that guide your decision.

Ready to transform your sleep? Visit authorized retailers to experience both mattresses firsthand before making your investment in better rest.

Frequently Asked Questions About Eight Sleep vs. Sleep Number i8

How does the cooling technology differ between these mattresses?

The Eight Sleep Pod Pro uses an active water-based cooling system with precise temperature control (55-110°F range) through embedded thermal sensors and circulating water channels.

Sleep Number i8 relies on passive cooling through breathable fabrics and airflow chambers. Eight Sleep’s approach is medical-grade precise, while Sleep Number’s is more about general temperature regulation without active cooling components.

Can both mattresses adjust firmness for each side independently?

Yes, but through different methods. Sleep Number i8 offers true independent firmness control (0-100 scale) via separate air chambers.

Eight Sleep provides dynamic support adjustments through its Active Grid technology, but doesn’t offer manual firmness settings – it automatically adapts based on sleep position and biometric data, with less dramatic firmness variation than Sleep Number.

Which mattress is better for couples with different sleep preferences?

For temperature differences: Eight Sleep (dual-zone active cooling). For firmness differences: Sleep Number (independent air chambers). If both partners need extreme customization,

Sleep Number typically works better. The Eight Sleep is ideal when temperature disparity is the primary concern, as its firmness adaptation is more subtle than Sleep Number’s adjustable air system.

How accurate are the sleep tracking features?

Eight Sleep’s tracking is clinically validated, measuring heart rate (±1 BPM), respiratory rate, and sleep stages via ballistocardiography.

Sleep Number uses movement-based tracking (SleepIQ®) that estimates sleep quality but lacks medical-grade precision. For health monitoring, Eight Sleep is superior; for general sleep pattern analysis, Sleep Number provides adequate data.

What maintenance do these smart mattresses require?

Eight Sleep needs monthly water reservoir cleaning, quarterly tubing checks, and annual filter replacements. Sleep Number requires bi-monthly pressure checks, annual foam rotation, and regular air filter cleaning.

Eight Sleep’s maintenance is more involved due to its water system, while Sleep Number focuses on air chamber and foam upkeep.

How long do these mattresses typically last?

Eight Sleep lasts 7-10 years (foam core) with cooling system components rated for 50,000 cycles. Sleep Number’s air chambers last 10+ years (15-year warranty) with replaceable foam layers.

Sleep Number generally offers better longevity due to its modular design, while Eight Sleep’s value is in its advanced technology rather than extreme durability.

Are these mattresses worth the premium price?

For temperature-sensitive sleepers or health-conscious users, Eight Sleep’s price is justified by its medical-grade cooling and tracking. Sleep Number’s cost makes sense for those needing adjustable firmness long-term.

Both represent good value for their target users, but aren’t cost-effective for people without specific sleep issues these technologies address.

Can I use regular bedding with these smart mattresses?

Yes, but with considerations. Eight Sleep works best with breathable, moisture-wicking sheets to complement its cooling system. Sleep Number accommodates most bedding, but very thick mattress toppers may interfere with its firmness sensors. Both manufacturers recommend their proprietary protectors for optimal performance with the smart features.