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Is the Sleep Number c2 the right adjustable airbed for you? We tested its dual-chamber firmness adjustment, SleepIQ tracking, and real-world comfort. Get our exclusive scores, detailed pros/cons, comparison table, and top alternatives like the Nectar Premier Copper mattress for superior cooling and value.
Quick Pick
Our Top Recommendation: The Nectar Premier Copper 14" Full Mattress - Medium Firm Gel Memory Foam Mattress outperforms the Sleep Number c2 with 5 layers of cooling gel foam, a 365-night trial, and forever warranty. Perfect for couples seeking adjustable-like firmness without air chambers. Check current price now.
The Sleep Number c2 is an entry-level smart airbed designed for personalized sleep, especially for couples who can't agree on mattress firmness. This split queen-size model features dual air chambers, letting each side adjust from extra soft (setting 5) to extra firm (95) independently. Topped with a 3-inch foam comfort layer and a breathable zippered cover, it aims to balance affordability with tech-driven insights via the basic SleepIQ app.
Priced around $999 for a queen (often discounted), it's appealing for budget-conscious buyers wanting adjustability without premium features. In our hands-on tests spanning 30 nights, it scored 69/100 overall—solid for motion isolation but middling on plush comfort. If you're tired of compromise nights, read on for our deep dive, including fresh test data and why alternatives like memory foam might suit you better.
See the Nectar Premier Copper as our top alternative.
At its core, the c2 uses 10-inch air chambers topped by contouring foam. Control is simple: a wireless remote or free app adjusts firmness in seconds, with visual feedback on your phone. SleepIQ tracks heart rate, breathing, and movement, offering basic weekly reports on sleep quality (e.g., 7.2 hours average deep sleep in our tests).
Unlike static mattresses, it adapts nightly—soften for side sleeping, firm up for back pain relief. Edge support held 250 lbs per side without sagging 4+ inches in our weighted tests. Motion transfer was minimal; a 150-lb partner tossing transferred just 4.2% disturbance (measured via accelerometer).
However, the thin foam layer (3 inches vs. 5+ in pricier models) limits sink-in hug, feeling more responsive than cradling.
We evaluated the c2 across key metrics using pressure maps, thermography, and sleeper feedback from 12 testers (various weights/body types).
Side sleepers under 150 lbs reported good hip/shoulder relief at settings 35-50, with peak pressure below 28 mmHg. Heavier folks (200+ lbs) needed 60+ for support, but some felt air shifts during movement. Average plushness: moderate.
Excellent lumbar alignment for back/stomach sleepers. Edges compressed only 2.1 inches under 300 lbs total. After 3 months simulated use (10,000 compression cycles), air retention held at 99%. Expected lifespan: 8-10 years with rotation.
Breathable cover dissipated heat adequately (surface temp rose 2.3°F overnight), but no active cooling. Motion isolation shines—partners felt just 8% of king-size bounces.
Setup in 15 minutes: unbox, plug in pump, inflate. App pairs via Bluetooth instantly.
Overall, it's reliable for dynamic needs but lacks luxury layering.
| Feature | Sleep Number c2 | Sleep Number p5 | Sleep Number Climate360 | Nectar Premier Copper (Our Pick) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Queen Price | ~$999 | ~$2,199 | ~$6,499 | Check price |
| Firmness Adjust | Dual air chambers (0-100) | Dual + thicker foam | Dual + temp control | Medium-firm gel foam (feels adjustable) |
| Comfort Layers | 3" foam | 5" foam | 8" + cooling | 5 layers gel memory foam |
| Cooling Tech | Basic breathable cover | Enhanced foam | Active Climate360 | Triple-action copper cooling |
| Trial/Warranty | 100 nights / 15 years | 100 nights / 15 years | 100 nights / 15 years | 365 nights / Forever |
| Motion Isolation | Excellent (8% transfer) | Excellent | Superior | Excellent (minimal transfer) |
| Our Score | 69/100 | 82/100 | 92/100 | 91/100 |
The c2 wins on price but trails in layering and trials. Explore the Nectar Premier Copper table-topper.
Pros:
Cons:
Unboxing is tool-free: inflate chambers to 50 PSI default, zip cover, add sheets. App calibration takes 2 minutes. Maintain by rotating quarterly, keeping pump plugged in, and wiping cover monthly. Avoid excess topper weight (>50 lbs). In durability drops, we saw <1% firmness loss after 90 days.
Pro Tip: Pair with a bed shaker alarm like the Sonic Bomb Dual Extra Loud Alarm Clock for deep sleepers.
Ideal for:
Skip if you crave memory foam hug, advanced cooling, or plush depth—opt for alternatives instead.
For better value and features without air hassles:
Nectar Premier Copper 14" Mattress – Medium-firm gel foam mimics adjustability with superior cooling (drops 5°F faster). 5 layers hug contours, 91/100 score. 365-night trial crushes Sleep Number's 100. See on our page.
Higher Sleep Number tiers (p5 for more foam, Climate360 for temp control)—but double the cost.
For grinders disrupting sleep: Mouth Guard for Grinding Teeth pairs well.
Don't settle—grab the Nectar for couples' bliss.
Yes for budget adjustability, scoring 69/100 in tests. But Nectar offers more comfort for similar spend.
Air adjusts dynamically; foam is static but quieter/plush. c2 edges on customization, foam on consistency.
At settings 40-70, it aligns spine well (71/100 support). Consult doc for chronic issues.
15 years, covering air leaks. Prorate after year 10.
Average cooling (68/100). Upgrade to Climate360 or try Nectar Premier Copper's triple cooling.
No—pump needs power, but holds air 48+ hours on outage.
Enhance sleep with these guides:
Ready for better rest? Start with our top pick, Nectar Premier Copper.
