Last updated: Jul 28, 2024

Emma vs Nectar mattress comparison: Which one is best for you?

This detailed comparison is based on Emma & Nectar’s flagship products, the Emma Original & Nectar Memory Foam mattresses.

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Introduction to Emma vs Nectar mattresses

Both Emma and Nectar consistently appear in best mattress guides and have won several awards. Emma makes two mattresses, whereas Nectar just make the one. In this Emma vs Nectar mattress comparison article, we’re going to compare the Emma Original to the Nectar mattress.

Emma vs Nectar: A quick comparison

A straightforward comparison of the Emma Original and Nectar mattresses. The table below highlights key features such as firmness, layers, warranty, materials, and more, helping you make an informed decision. Whether you're looking for optimal support, quality materials, or a reliable warranty, this table covers the essential aspects of both mattresses.

Emma Original

Nectar

Firmness

Layers

4

5

Trial Period

200-night trial period.

Warranty

10-year warranty.

Price Range

Add this in the mattress review collection.

Add this in the mattress review collection.

Materials

Memory foam, HRX foam.

Discounts & offers

Before you decide which mattress is best for you, don't miss the latest Emma & Nectar mattress discounts and offers. Grab a great deal before buying!

Emma

Sorry we couldn't find any vouchers at this time

Nectar

Sorry we couldn't find any vouchers at this time

Detailed mattress construction: Emma Original vs Nectar

Next up in our Emma v Nectar mattress review is a look at what the mattresses are made of. Both mattresses are 25cm deep with the Emma having four layers to Nectar's five. Let’s look at those layers in more detail:

Emma Original construction

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  • Top Layer: Airgocell® foam for breathability and comfort.
  • Second Layer: Memory foam that adapts to body contours.
  • Base Layer: HRX foam offering stability and support.

Nectar construction

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Cover
Adaptive cooling cover
Top Layer
Smart memory foam to dissipate heat & moisture
Layer 2
Pressure relieving memory foam
Layer 3
7 zone support base
Layer 4
Positioning base material

Firmness, comfort & support: Emma Original vs Nectar

Both mattresses have a medium firmness rating so are easily comparable. Many bed in a box companies go for a medium firmness as it suits the widest number of sleepers. Let’s look at the pros and cons of each mattress in this department.

Emma Original Mattress

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  • Both Emma mattresses have a higher level of bounce than most bed in a box brands.
  • The Emma Original does have some motion transfer but the build of the mattress absorbs energy well and helps to dissipate the motion. Light sleepers may notice movement.
  • A balanced level of sinkage in both mattresses means that you never feel stuck in the mattress.
  • Extremely breathable foams and cover helps to keep sleepers cool.
  • Both mattresses are softer than other bed in a box brands, but are particularly good for front sleepers.

Nectar Memory Foam Mattress

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  • The adaptive cooling cover and smart memory foam mean that sleepers feel cool and comfortable throughout the night.
  • The Nectar has a slightly softer top layer, with more sinkage, than some other brands giving a cushioned effect to the sleeper.
  • Slightly firmer than other memory foam mattresses, which means it provides excellent support.
  • The synthetic smell that is common with all beds in a box takes longer to dissipate than some mattresses.
  • Rates very highly for those suffering with back pain,who say they’ve seen a marked improvement with the Nectar mattress.

Other important factors: Trial periods, guarantees, and delivery

What else should you consider when you're choosing between the Emma or Nectar mattresses? Emma offer a 200 nights trial and 10-year warranty, while Nectar offer an astonishing 365 nights trial and a lifetime warranty. Both companies will give you a full refund if you’re not satisfied and you can also apply for up to 12 months interest free credit to pay for the mattress, with free delivery to most of the UK.

Do bear in mind that as these mattresses come delivered in sealed boxes they will have a rubbery smell when first extracted. They need a good few hours in a room with the windows open before you sleep on them.

Emma Original

Nectar

Trial Periods

200-night trial period.

Guarantees

10-year warranty.

Delivery

Free delivery and hassle-free returns.

Do bear in mind that as these mattresses come delivered in sealed boxes they will have a rubbery smell when first extracted. They need a good few hours in a room with the windows open before you sleep on them.

Environmental impact and sustainability

Emma Original

Nectar

Sustainability

Emphasises sustainable production with eco-friendly materials

Certifications

Meets CertiPUR® standards and Oeko-Tex® 100 certifications.

Prices & sizes for the Emma Original & the Nectar.

Both manufacturers make their mattresses in a range of UK sizes, with the largest for both being a UK Super King. The mattresses are also similarly priced.

Emma Original Mattress

UK Single

From £296.34

UK Small Double

From £421.74

UK Double

From £461.34

UK King

From £527.34

UK Super King

From £829

Nectar Memory Foam Mattress

UK Single

From £449

UK Small Double

From £549

UK Double

From £549

UK King

From £649

UK Super King

From £749

The final verdict - Nectar or Emma mattress. Which should you choose?

Reasons to choose the Emma Original Mattress

We recommend the Emma Original based on the following reasons:

  • You want a mattress that responds quickly to pressure points, due to its combination of foams and zoned support.
  • You are not a particularly light sleeper, as the motion transfer in Emma mattresses can wake lighter sleepers.
  • You sleep in any position, although the Emma is particularly supportive for side sleepers.
  • You like the slightly softer feel of an all foam mattress, but still want a mattress that is ever so slightly firmer than many medium firmness options.

I've decided on the Emma Original Mattress. How can I purchase?

Visit the Emma website

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Need more info? Read our in depth Emma Original Mattress review where we discuss the mattress in more detail.

Reasons to choose the Nectar Memory Foam Mattress

We recommend the Nectar based on the following reasons:

  • You want a mattress that allows for slightly more sinkage and a cushioned effect.
  • You suffer with back pain and want a mattress that provides excellent support.
  • You want a mattress that suits all body types and builds.
  • You want a mattress that is good at keeping sleepers cool at night.

I've decided on the Nectar Memory Foam Mattress. How can I purchase?

Visit the Nectar website

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Need more info? Read our in depth Nectar Memory Foam Mattress review where we discuss the mattress in more detail.

Further reading: We also have an in depth Emma Original Mattress review and Nectar Memory Foam Mattress review where we discuss the mattresses in more detail.

Author

Richard is passionate about helping people get a better night's sleep. As someone who has struggled with sleep and spent a lot of time researching the perfect mattress, Richard has built an in depth understanding of the merits of each mattress brand and what to look for to help you find your perfect night's sleep.