Side-by-side mattress testing · 144+ comparisons published
Quick Specs Comparison
Key Advantages
Why Choose Puffy
- Cloud-like soft feel for side sleepers
- Superior motion isolation
- Lifetime warranty
Why Choose GhostBed
- $200 cheaper at Queen
- Better cooling with gel foam
- Firmer support for back/stomach sleepers
Lab Verdict
Cooling was a wash — both mattresses landed within half a degree of each other after 60 minutes of body heat. Couples should note that the Puffy dampened motion more aggressively (0.08g peak vs. 0.13g). Side sleepers will feel less shoulder pressure on the Puffy (peak 30 mmHg vs. 33 mmHg). The GhostBed held a firmer perimeter (1.8" sinkage vs. 2.2"). GhostBed returned more energy on rebound (59% vs. 39%), favoring combo sleepers.
| Metric | Puffy | GhostBed | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cooling (60-min Δ°F) | 3.2°F | 3°F | GhostBed |
| Motion isolation (g) | 0.08g | 0.13g | Puffy |
| Edge sinkage | 2.2" | 1.8" | GhostBed |
| Shoulder pressure (mmHg) | 30 mmHg | 33 mmHg | Puffy |
| Response time (s) | 1.3s | 0.5s | GhostBed |
| Off-gassing | 2 days | 2 days | Tie |
Median of 3 trials, 68°F climate-controlled lab. KW/BT / DH/KW · scoring vv2.1.
In-Depth Analysis
Puffy and GhostBed are two lesser-known but well-reviewed all-foam mattresses that fly under most comparison radars. Having tested both, they offer distinct experiences at similar price points ($899-$1,199 Queen).
Puffy emphasizes cloud-like comfort with its Cooling Cloud foam and ClimateComfort layers. The feel is classic memory foam — slow-response, body-hugging, and excellent for side sleepers. Our pressure mapping showed Puffy eliminating shoulder pressure more effectively than GhostBed.
GhostBed leans firmer at 7/10 versus Puffy's 6/10, with aerated latex-like foam that provides more responsiveness and bounce. The synthetic latex layer gives GhostBed better cooling performance — in our thermal testing, surface temperatures were 2°F lower than Puffy after 30 minutes.
Value comparison favors GhostBed. At $895 vs $999 for a Queen, GhostBed is cheaper while offering a 25-year warranty versus Puffy's lifetime warranty. GhostBed's 101-night trial vs Puffy's 101-night trial is identical. Both include free shipping and returns.
Our Verdict
GhostBed wins for cooling, firmness, and value. Puffy wins for plush comfort and side sleeper pressure relief. Both are solid mid-range choices that deserve more recognition.
Buying Advice
Choose Puffy if you're a side sleeper who wants cloud-like memory foam comfort
Choose GhostBed if you sleep hot, prefer firmer support, or want the lower price
Both are excellent for apartments — all-foam construction means zero noise and no box spring needed