Having trouble choosing between the Nectar and Leesa mattresses? You’re in the right place. The Mattress Clarity team has tested more than 500 mattresses (including these two fine all-foam beds) and helped over 43,000 readers find the perfect mattress for them, so you can count on us to know what actually matters when it comes to comfort and performance.
Below, we’ll break down how the Leesa Original and Nectar Classic stack up so you can confidently pick the memory foam model that fits your sleep needs and preferences.
Product
Type
Score
Product
Type
Score
Should You Choose the Leesa or Nectar?
While both the Leesa and Nectar mattresses are memory foam models, there are some differences between the two. Our mattress testers found that the Leesa had a firmer feel (8 out of 10 on the firmness scale) and was more responsive than the Nectar; however, the Nectar’s softer surface made it the better option for side sleeping.
| Who Should Choose the Leesa? | Who Should Choose the Nectar? |
| Hot sleepers | Hot sleepers |
| Combination sleepers | Couples |
| Back sleepers | Side sleepers |
Leesa vs. Nectar Performance Scores
We test every mattress, including the Leesa and Nectar, in our studio using a methodology that evaluates both subjective and objective factors. See how their test results stack up against each other, and how they compare to what we see on average.
To find out more about each score, you can look at our full Leesa mattress review or Nectar mattress review.
| Test | Leesa | Nectar | Average |
| Firmness | 8 – Firm | 6.5/10 – Medium-Firm | 6.7/10 – Medium-Firm |
| Side Sleeper Comfort | Good | Good | Good |
| Back Sleeper Comfort | Excellent | Excellent | Good |
| Stomach Sleeper Comfort | Unpleasant | Good | Good |
| Pressure Relief | 4.4/5 | 3.7/5 | 3.9 |
| Edge Support | 4/5 | 3.4/5 | 4.1 |
| Cooling | 5/5 | 5/5 | 3.8 |
| Motion Isolation | 4/5 | 4.7/5 | 3.9 |
| Responsiveness | 5/5 | 4/5 | 4.3 |
| Sinkage Depth | 2.75” | 3.35” | 3.12” |
| Sinkage Rating | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
| Bounce Height | 17” | 15” | 17.89” |
| Bounce Rating | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
| Noise | 5/5 | 5/5 | 4.5 |
| Sex | 4.7/5 | 4.1/5 | 4.3 |
| Trial Period | 4/5 | 5/5 | 4.2 |
| Warranty | 4.5/5 | 5/5 | 4.6 |
| Unboxing & Moving | 5/5 | 5/5 | 4.3 |
| Off-gassing | 5/5 | 5/5 | 4.2 |
Trying the Leesa and the Nectar Back-to-Back
Mattress tester Riley Otis tested both mattresses side by side in our studio to make a direct comparison. When asked about how they measure up against each other, she said, “In terms of construction, they’re both all-foam models containing a comfort layer, transition layer, and a base layer of support foam. They both offer adequate cushioning around the joints for side and back sleepers, but the Leesa offers a touch more firmness that helps support the lower back. The most significant difference I noticed was the height; the Nectar is about 2 inches taller than the Leesa.”
Leesa vs. Nectar Pricing
| Leesa Price | Nectar Price | |
| Twin | $849.00 | $1081.00 |
| Twin XL | $899.00 | $1148.00 |
| Full | $1099.00 | $1498.00 |
| Queen | $1299.00 | $1664.00 |
| King | $1599.00 | $2131.00 |
| California King | $1599.00 | $2131.00 |
Note: the above prices may not reflect current sales or promotions.
Key Differences Between the Leesa and Nectar
There are a couple of key differences between the two mattresses that can make or break your sleep. Below, we’ll break down how they compare in edge support, motion isolation, and pressure relief so you can quickly see which one fits your needs.
The Leesa Has Stronger Edge Support
If you are someone who lies near the perimeter of the bed or relies on strong edge support to stand up in the morning, you will likely prefer the Leesa Original mattress. When sitting and lying along the side of the mattress, our testers found very minimal sinkage and awarded it a strong 4/5 in this category.
“I did not feel like I would tip over or slide off whatsoever,” said one of our in-house testers. “I felt like the edge support was excellent lying down.”
Conversely, the softer top layer of the Nectar Classic sank in a little more than we would have liked, which is why we gave it a 3.4/5.
The Nectar Has Less Motion Transfer
Motion isolation is ultra-important if you are a light sleeper who shares a bed with a restless partner (or pet). In this category, the Nectar excels, earning a 4.7/5 during testing.
“I’m someone who feels every little movement,” said mattress tester Livvi DiCicco. “But the Nectar is definitely one of the best I’ve tested out today. I didn’t feel my fellow tester moving on the other side of the bed. I only noticed when he got out of bed.”
That said, the Leesa still performed well in this category, earning a 4/5, but if you are someone who stirs at even the slightest movement, we would recommend the Nectar over the Leesa in a heartbeat.
The Leesa Relieves More Pressure
Our testers awarded the Leesa Original a strong 4.4/5 in the pressure relief category after mattress testers of various shapes, sizes, and sleep preferences lay on the mattress in every position and gave their feedback.
We found that the Leesa Original had an edge over the Nectar in this category, most notable for side sleepers, who need better pressure relief for their hips and shoulders.
“I like this better on my side than I thought I would,” said mattress tester Riley Otis. “Even though it is on the firmer side, I am not noticing any pressure at my shoulders or hips.”
Our chief medical product tester, Dr. Hannah Habeeb, agreed with Riley’s assessment.
“My shoulder sinks in just enough, and I don’t feel a lot of pressure building there,” said Dr. Habeeb. “I don’t feel any pressure building up in my hip right now, either. Personally, I would prefer more contouring, but some may like it.”
Similarities Between the Leesa and Nectar
The Leesa and Nectar have similar constructions, so it’s no surprise that our testers found a lot of overlap between them. Learn more about what they have in common below.
Both Have Excellent Cooling
Hot sleepers who prefer an all-foam mattress have two big reasons to celebrate with the Leesa Original and Nectar Classic mattresses. Both models scored a perfect 5/5 in our cooling category during testing, meaning hot sleepers should find both beds crisp, breathable, and comfortable.
Both Mattresses Are Responsive
During testing, we awarded the Leesa and Nectar Classic response scores of 5/5 and 4/5, respectively. While memory foam is typically known for being doughy and difficult to move on, both mattresses made it surprisingly easy for us to roll around and change sleeping positions on. If you are a combination sleeper who frequently changes positions at night to get comfortable, both beds could be a solid choice for you.
Both Are Great for Back Sleeping
While the Leesa performed better than the Nectar in pressure relief, both mattresses performed well on our back-sleeping pressure relief tests. Our mattress experts found that both mattresses provided enough support around the lower lumbar region to maintain neutral spinal alignment in this sleeping position.
“I think this bed would be good for a back sleeper,” Dr. Habeeb noted of the Nectar mattress. “It’s conforming to my lower back and prevents too much dipping at the hips. I would recommend this to back sleepers more than side sleepers.”
Which Bed Is Better For Your Body Type?
Lightweight Sleepers (Up to 130 lbs)
Generally speaking, we would recommend the Nectar Classic to sleepers in this weight category because it is softer and offers more cushioning than the Leesa Original. While both all-foam options should be comfortable for lightweight sleepers, those who strictly sleep on their side will likely benefit from the Nectar’s softness over time.
“I feel great on my side,” said one tester. “With a pillow, my shoulder feels really good. It’s contouring my body and my hips nicely.”
Average-Weight Sleepers (130-230 lbs)
Sleepers in the average-weight category should fare well on either of these bed-in-a-box models. However, we would give the Leesa a slight edge here, especially for stomach sleepers. The Leesa is on the firmer side and more supportive, meaning stomach sleepers who need more lift around their hips and lower body should get exactly that on this bed.
“I really like this mattress,” said mattress tester Sosha Lewis. “I feel a little bit of sinkage in my hips, but I don’t feel like it’s putting me off balance. My spine feels very straight. There’s no pressure on my shoulders either.”
Stomach sleepers may find that they sink too far into the Nectar’s soft foam layers to maintain neutral spinal alignment.
Heavyweight Sleepers (230 lbs and Up)
Heavier sleepers typically need a firmer mattress model to support them through the night. For this reason, we would recommend the Leesa Original over the Nectar Classic to sleepers in this weight category.
Back sleepers should get more lift from the Leesa Original to stay in neutral alignment through the night. Side sleepers should sink in just enough to get contouring around their pressure points (hips and shoulders) without bottoming out.
That said, we wouldn’t recommend either model to stomach sleepers. Stomach sleepers with bigger bodies would likely feel more comfortable on a hybrid mattress with pocketed coils for additional support.
Leesa vs. Nectar Construction and Materials
| Leesa | Nectar | |
| Type of Mattress | Foam | Foam |
| Number of Layers (Including the Cover) | 4 | 5 |
| Height | 10” | 12” |
| Pillow Top | No | No |
| Organic Materials | No | No |
As Riley noted earlier, the most significant difference between the two mattresses is their height. The Nectar Classic has an additional layer, making it two inches taller than the Leesa Original.
Leesa vs. Nectar Company Policies
| Leesa | Nectar | |
| Trial Period | 120 nights | 365 nights |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime | Lifetime warranty |
| Shipping | Free shipping in all 50 states. | Free within the contiguous United States. Non-refundable $350 shipping fee to Alaska and Hawaii. |
| Return Policy | Free returns within the 120-night trial period (after the first 30 nights). $100 return fee for customers in Alaska, Hawaii, and Canada. | Returns are free in the contiguous U.S. A delivery charge is added at checkout if you are outside of the US. |
The most notable difference between the two companies’ policies is that Nectar offers a generous 365-night trial period. You get a full year to test your new mattress in your home to decide if you are satisfied with it.
Leesa vs. Nectar: Clarity’s Conclusion
The Leesa and Nectar are two memory foam mattresses with much to offer, but the Leesa is a better pick for combination sleepers and those who need stronger edge support. However, most side sleepers and those who prefer a classic memory foam feel should go with the Nectar.
 | | |
| Leesa Original Mattress | Nectar Classic Memory Foam Mattress | |
| Rating | ||
| Firmness | Medium-Firm: 6.5/10 | Medium-Firm: 7/10 |
| Material | Foam | Foam |
| Cooling | — | — |
| Best For | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Leesa firmer than the Nectar?
At 8 out of 10 on our firmness scale, the Leesa is firmer than the Nectar (6.5 out of 10 on the same scale).
Which mattress is better for back pain?
We would recommend the Leesa over the Nectar for back pain. The firmer Leesa is more supportive and should help sleepers with back pain stay aligned over night.
What other models does Nectar sell?
The Nectar Classic Memory Foam is their flagship mattress; however, the brand also sells more advanced models like the Nectar Premier and Nectar Premier Hybrid.
What other models does Leesa sell?
Aside from the brand’s original mattress, the Leesa Sapira Hybrid model is also popular among hot sleepers.
