GhostBed vs Sleep Number Mattress Review

Last Updated on June 21, 2025

So you’re ready to buy a new mattress. If you’ve narrowed your search to GhostBed and Sleep Number, we’re here to help you decide.

Let’s explore how these two brands measure up in value, comfort and quality.

GhostBed VS Sleep Number

Compare Sleep Number and GhostBed, a common Sleep Number alternative

GhostBed vs. Sleep Number: Overview

GhostBed offers high-quality memory foam and hybrid mattresses shipped fast in a box, no tech required. Sleep Number focuses on complex smart bed systems with high prices to match. For shoppers who want proven comfort, cooling and value, GhostBed is the top choice.

While both GhostBed and Sleep Number offer quality mattresses, they take very different approaches. Sleep Number focuses on smart bed technology with several models and complex features, while GhostBed keeps things simple with three carefully crafted options—Comfort, Signature, and Luxe—each available in all-foam or hybrid.

The winner: GhostBed is a top choice for sleepers who want high-quality comfort without the complexity or premium price tag of smart bed tech.

Who Has the Better Manufacturing Expertise: GhostBed or Sleep Number?

Both GhostBed and Sleep Number were founded by experienced entrepreneurs, but their paths to the sleep industry were quite different.

Sleep Number's founders came from the adjustable air mattress industry before starting the company in 1987. Their focus has been on scaling the business and developing technology platforms, with leadership coming primarily from retail and business backgrounds.

Marc Werner, GhostBed's founder, comes from a history of hands-on manufacturing. Growing up around his grandfather's Werner Ladder Company—where precision and durability were integral to a product’s success—Marc learned manufacturing from the ground up. When he started developing mattresses in 2001, he brought that same attention to quality materials and proven construction methods to the sleep industry.

The difference shows in their business philosophy. Sleep Number has built an impressive retail operation and complex technology integration. Meanwhile, Marc has kept GhostBed focused on what matters most: manufacturing expertise, quality materials and straightforward products that deliver great sleep without unnecessary complexity.

The winner: GhostBed is a top choice for shoppers who value expert craftsmanship, proven materials and a focus on sleep—not tech gadgets.

Which Brand Offers Better Value: GhostBed or Sleep Number?

Sleep Number positions itself as a premium technology brand with pricing to match. Their smart beds come with numerous add-ons, upgrades and technology features that can quickly increase your total cost.

At GhostBed, we believe great sleep shouldn't require a premium budget or complex purchasing decisions. The three mattresses in our core collection are clearly priced with no hidden costs or confusing add-ons. Each model is available in all-foam or hybrid, making it easy to find the right mattress for your needs and budget.

It’s also important to consider the return policies. While Sleep Number offers a 100-night trial, they charge a $250 fee for returns or exchanges. At GhostBed, mattress returns are completely free during your 101-night trial period.

The winner: GhostBed is a top choice for value-conscious customers who want straightforward pricing, free returns and no hidden fees.

Is GhostBed or Sleep Number Easier to Buy and Set Up?

When it comes to getting your new mattress, the difference between GhostBed and Sleep Number is like night and day.

Sleep Number's approach requires visiting one of their retail locations and navigating through numerous smart bed options with various technology features. Even if you choose doorstep delivery, you'll need to figure out the setup on your own.

At GhostBed, we've made getting great sleep as simple as possible. Select your GhostBed mattress, order online and it’ll ship fast in one convenient vacuum-packed box. No complex setup—just roll it out and you're ready for better sleep that same day.

We focus our innovation on things that actually matter for great sleep. Instead of complicated air systems, our core collection uses proven cooling materials that keep you comfortable all night and supportive foams that maintain their shape year after year.

The winner: GhostBed is a top choice for anyone who wants an easy online buying experience and a mattress that ships fast in one simple box.

Final Verdict: Why Choose GhostBed Over Sleep Number?

When you're comparing GhostBed and Sleep Number, the choice comes down to proven manufacturing expertise versus complex smart bed technology. With Marc's decades of hands-on manufacturing experience, transparent pricing and convenient bed-in-a-box delivery, GhostBed delivers quality sleep without the complexity or premium markup of “smart” technology.

Explore the full collection of GhostBed mattresses to find the perfect fit for you.

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