The C-2 and C-4 Sleep Number beds are the first models in the Classic Series. Both are
great for couples looking to customize each side of the bed and both tend to be
naturally firmer since they have fewer layers than more luxurious models.
So, which one is best for you? Check out our
handy comparison guide below for more information on each model.
Sleep Number C-2 vs. C-4
Sleep Number 360 c2 Smart Mattress
Multiple firmness options
Sleep Number 360 c4 Smart Mattress
Multiple firmness options
Key Similarities
- DualAir™ adjustability
- Soft, breathable knit fabric (both made of a rayon blend)
- A variety of standard sizes – including FlexTop
- Zip on/off top layer with soft fiberfill material
- SleepIQ® technology (Optional)
- FlexFit™ Adjustable Bases (Optional)
Key Differences
C-2
- 8” mattress profile
- Has a soft, fiberfill sewn into the top layer followed by an adjustable air chamber(s) below
- $1099.00 for a Queen
Sleep Number’s C2 Classic Series model is the most basic and standard of Sleep Number mattresses. It does not come with a lot of bells and whistles, but that’s not always a bad thing. This mattress seems to be a hit with budget-friendly folks, mostly couples, who want the Sleep Number experience.
Product Details
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
25-year limited warranty
Shipping
Flat-rate white glove delivery
Our Recommendation
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Sleepers
This bed’s strong support is ideal for back sleepers because it helps keep the spine neutrally aligned.
Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
C-4
- 10″ mattress profile
- The C4 model comes with a 1 ½’ “Comfort layer” of polyurethane foam that features 3 zones of comfort. Sleep Number says the zones are intended to relieve pressure and contour to your head and neck, back and hips.
- $1899.00 for a Queen
Sleep Number’s C4 mattress is one of the most standard Sleep Number models but comes with a comfort layer that provides body contouring.
Product Details
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
15-year limited warranty
Shipping
Flat-rate white glove delivery
Our Recommendation
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
What I Found From Several Live Chat Sessions
I picked up some additional information from
Live Chat sessions that may help you decide which bed will be the best fit for you.
Comfort:
The Customer Service representative told me that
the C-4 model has a softer mattress cover than the C-2. It features a plush style top with a soft woven fabric. It is Sleep Number’s original design and it has been clinically proven to improve sleep quality and relieve back pain, according to the representative.
Firmness:
While firmness is mostly dictated by the air chambers and your own Sleep Number, both the C-2 and C-4 models will
still be on the firmer side among the variety of Sleep Number beds.
This is because they have minimal layers in between the air chamber and the mattress top. This will naturally cause the bed to be firmer, especially compared to other beds with several comfort layers.
Read our full Sleep Number review
Which Should You Pick?
C-2 if…
You Like Sleep Number Beds But Don’t Want To Break The Bank: If you love Sleep Number but are on a budget, the C2 Classic Series Adjustable mattress may be your best bet at
$1099.00 for a Queen. While some reviewers felt this mattress was too firm, others added 3″ mattress toppers and thought it was perfect.
You Are A Back Sleeper: The C2 Classic Series model is very standard and comes with an air chamber and some filling sewn into the mattress top (not foam). With only 8″ of depth to work with
this mattress doesn’t have a lot of cushioning and will most likely be on the firmer side than other models. Many reviewers who liked firm mattresses and slept on their backs liked the feel of the C2.
C-4 if…
You Are A Heavier Person: Sleep Number mattresses can hold a weight of
up to 400lbs per side. A Sleep Number model with more layers and more cushioning – like the C-4 as compared to the C-2 – may be a better fit for heavier individuals.
Either if…
You Sleep With A Partner: Aside from the ability to
adjust the firmness of two sides of the mattress, Sleep Number makes something called a FlexFit Adjustable Base. Basically, you can raise the head and/or foot of the bed and in some mattresses, can raise just your side of the bed and leave the other flat (or whatever your partner chooses).
FlexFit is not included in the base price of the C2 or C4 but is an option you can choose to include (you can also choose to add their Partner Snore technology to FlexFit as well).
RELATED: Best Sleep Number Bed Alternatives
My Personal Opinion
At full price, there is a
$700 difference between the C-2 and C-4 Sleep Number models. For that price, you are essentially getting 2” of additional of mattress height, a 1 ½” comfort layer with 3 contouring zones and a softer mattress top.
Based on the details of each mattress and reading many customer reviews, I’m inclined to save costs and
go for the basic C-2 model over the C-4.
I say this because it seems like you’re essentially saving several hundred dollars by not adding a layer of specialized foam and some mattress height. Several reviewers found workarounds with this by purchasing their own 3” mattress toppers.
This way you’re getting the extra comfort provided by the extra layers in the C-4 but you can pick exactly what topper you want at what price you want. You’re still getting the adjustable and customizable benefits of a Sleep Number bed but saving on the price.
That being said, the “Comfort Layer” inside the C-4 mattress is designed to contour and support your head, neck, and back. If I had a
specific need for extra support in those areas I’d probably
consider upgrading to the C-4 to ensure a comfortable rest.
