Isense Sleep Mattress Review
Summary
The iSense Sleep is a highly customizable mattress. You can dial in your preferred mattress firmness using a remote control or a smartphone app, and it's so versatile that couples can adjust each side of the bed to their individual liking.
Excellent choice for: Anyone looking for a foam or hybrid mattress with adjustable firmness.
Avoid if: You are shopping for a budget mattress. iSense is also not ideal if you want a plush mattress – even on the lowest setting, it still feels fairly firm.
Price: $1,869-$3,654
We’ve reviewed quite a few adjustable comfort mattresses on this website, such as Spindle and Luxi. But most of these have limited adjustability, and you can only select between 2-3 firmness levels (by flipping the mattressor interchanging the layers).
The iSense mattress, on the other hand, takes comfort customization to the next level. You can adjust how firm the mattress is by inflating or deflating 12 air chambers, 6 on each half of the bed. The company calls this itsComfort Control™ Technology.
iSense is not an air mattress – the chambers are only a small part of the mattress. The rest of the mattress has a traditional design. You can opt for an all-foam mattress or a more supportive and responsive hybrid mattress.
What’s In This Mattress Review?
In this review, we examine the iSense mattress, including its tech, and whether it really improves the overall sleeping experience or not.
We also explain a few limitations you should be aware of before you splurge on the iSense mattress (it’s not cheap).
About iSense
iSense was founded in 2018 by Paul Longman, a veteran of the mattress industry. He’s been involved with brands like Slumberland, Serta, and Leggett & Platt.
In 2018, Paul started iSense with the goal of creating a mattress that’s comfortable for everyone.
The company iSense is based in Springfield, Missouri.
Prices
As expected, the iSense mattress costs significantly more than an ordinary mattress. But compared to other high-tech mattresses such as Sleep Number, it’s a bargain.
Here are the prices for the Refresh (foam) and Revive (hybrid) mattresses. Visit the official website for the latest prices and offers.
| Refresh | Revive | |
| Twin XL | $1,869 | $2,379 |
| Queen | $2,549 | $3,229 |
| King | $2,889 | $3,654 |
| Cal King | $2,889 | $3,654 |
A few more things to note:
- Additional sizes, including Split and FlexHead, are available for the King and Cal King sizes.
- iSense currently offers its mattresses in just four sizes.
- You can pay for your new mattress via Affirm financing. Visit the iSense website to prequalify.
- iSense currently has an offer where you get two free smart pillows with any mattress purchase. The pillows include a sensor for sleep tracking.
Shipping
iSense offers two shipping options to states in the continental US: standard free delivery and paid white glove delivery.
Both options take quite some time – 4 to 6 weeks. iSense says it’s because of ongoing supply chain issues.
With free delivery, the mattress will be delivered in a box to your front door. It’s up to you to take it inside and set it up. The mattress is heavy, so have someone around to help you lift and carry it.
If you pay for white glove delivery, the mattress will be delivered to the room of your choice and set up for you. Currently, white glove delivery does not include old mattress removal.
Delivery and Unboxing
You set up the iSense mattress the same way you would any other mattress in a box. Remove it from the box and lay it on the bed.
Carefully remove the wrapping and roll it flat. Give it a few hours to expand and off-gas.
However, the iSense mattress has a few extra steps. You’ll need to connect the pump unit to the mattress and a power supply (you can use a surge-protected power strip if the outlet is too far).
You’ll also need to download the smartphone app or just use the included remote control.
Aesthetics/Styling
From the outside, the iSense mattress looks pretty standard. The foam mattress has a white textured cover, while the iSense hybrid mattress has a white and blue cover, also textured.
At 11” for the foam mattress and 13.5” for the hybrid mattresses, both mattresses are tall and will look great even on a low platform bed.
Technology
The most prominent feature of the iSense mattress is the air-based comfort adjustment, whichiSense calls its Comfort Control™ Technology.
Around the center of the mattress are air chambers that are connected to an air pump through tubes.
As the air chambers inflate, they expand and compress the foam around them, making the mattress firmer. As they deflate, the mattress gets softer.
You control the level of firmness using the included remote control or via the companion app.
Firmness levels are represented by numbers, and they go all the way from 20 for softest to 90 for firmest.
Note that all iSense mattress sizes, except for the single user twin XL, have dual comfort control. You can adjust firmness separately on each half of the mattress.
Something else worth mentioning is the type of foam used in iSense mattresses – Energex.
Energex foam is designed to be a bouncier, more supportive, and cooler alternative to memory foam. iSense uses it extensively in both their mattresses.
Cover
Both the hybrid and foam mattresses come with a soft, stretchy, and breathable cover.
Do not remove the cover or wash it. If it gets dirty or stained, gently spot clean the area with cold water and mild detergent.
Even better, use a mattress protector.
Mattress Construction
iSense Refresh (Foam Mattress)
The iSense Refresh has an all-foam construction. A soft layer of Energex foam on top contours according to your body and relieves pressure from your shoulders, back, hips, and other pressure points.
The bottom layer is a thick, high-density support foam. It forms the base of the mattress, and it also contains air chambers that adjust the mattress’ firmness.
Around the two layers is a perimeter of high-density edge foam designed to boost edge support for those who sleep near the edge of the mattress or like to sit at the edge.
iSense Revive (Hybrid)
The iSense Revive has a hybrid construction that combines Energex foam and pocket coils.
The top foam layer is the same soft pressure-relieving Energex foam found in the Refresh mattress. But there’s a fundamental difference. The one in the Revive mattress contains graphite to provide a cooler sleep experience.
Next is a transition layer of Energex foam which provides support and houses the air chambers.
A base of pocketed coil springs provides deep support, reduces motion transfer, and improves airflow and cooling within the mattress.
Similar to the foam mattress, the iSense hybrid mattress has edge foam all around to ensure good edge support.
Sleeping Experience
So, is the iSense mattress worth the money? Does it sleep any better than other mattresses?
Well, the iSense mattress has mixed reviews. It definitely improves the sleeping experience for some sleepers, but it’s not for everyone.
Here’s a closer look at specific areas, including firmness, support, pressure relief, motion transfer, and cooling.
Firmness
The iSense mattresses have adjustable firmness, so they don’t fall in a particular firmness category. You can make your mattress softer or firmer, depending on your sleep preferences.
That said, there’s a limit to just how soft you can make the iSense mattress. Many users complain that even at the lowest setting, the mattress is still too firm for their liking.
The iSense mattress goes from medium-firm to extra-firm. The main reason for this is the Energex foam.
It’s not as plush as memory foam. Even with the air chambers, the iSense mattress doesn't offer the hug of a memory foam mattress.
For this reason, we recommend both iSense mattresses only for those who prefer sleeping on a medium-firm, firm, or extra-firm mattress.
It is especially suitable for stomach sleepers, back sleepers, and heavier folks. The hybrid option is especially great for those with heavy bodies.
Support
Both iSense mattresses offer excellent support. Even without the air chambers, the Energex foam and the pocket coils (in the hybrid) hold up your weight and keep your spine aligned without a problem.
The air chambers provide additional support, should you need it.
Heavier sleepers will find both the foam and hybrid mattresses to be plenty comfortable. They are both thick enough to support your weight without bottoming out.
And with the edge foam in the two mattresses, you can make use of the entire bed surface.
Pressure Relief
This is where the iSense mattresses lose some points. The Energex foam does provide pressure relief, but just enough for side and back sleepers.
Deflating the air chambers will soften the mattress to a certain extent, but not enough to make it comfortable for side sleepers. Even some back sleepers, especially those who weigh under 130lbs, may find the iSense mattress too firm for their liking.
If you have back pain or aches in your hips or shoulders, we don't recommend iSense. A memory foam mattress will probably be a better choice. Some advanced air mattresses like Sleep Number also provide excellent pressure relief.
Hot/Cold Issues
Both iSense mattresses are great at cooling. The lack of memory foam certainly keeps things from getting hot and stuffy.
Because of its open-cell design, Energex foam has some of the breathability of latex foam. The breathable cover also helps.
The iSense Revive hybrid mattress is even better at cooling thanks to the pocket coils and the graphite-infused foam.
Motion Transfer
The combination of Energex foam and air chambers stops any disturbance from moving across the bed.
Even in the hybrid mattress with bouncy pocket coils, there’s very little motion transfer.
If you or your partner moves a lot at night, either of the iSense mattresses is a great choice.
Sex
iSense mattresses don't have the mushy feel of some memory foam mattresses. Energex foam is more responsive and gets even bouncier as it gets warm.
Both the Revive and Refresh mattresses are great for sex. They are bouncy, stay cool, have great edge support, and are quite silent.
Off-Gassing
Expect some off-gassing when you unbox your new mattress. All synthetic foam mattresses have a new smell.
But it’ll fade away within a couple of days. Leave the mattress uncovered and the windows open during the day to hasten the process.
Trial and Returns
You have 180 days to try the iSense mattress at home. That’s plenty of time to experiment with different firmness levels and determine if the mattress really works for you.
If at the 45-day mark you still don't like the mattress, you can return it for a full refund. As long as you wait 45 days, returns are free.
Warranty
iSense offers a 10-year warranty for the mattress, minus the electrical components, including the pump and controls.
The electrical components have a 3-year full warranty. After that, they are covered by a prorated warranty from year 4 to year 10.
iSense Mattress Pros and Cons
Pros
- Adjustable firmness.
- Excellent cooling performance.
- A choice between foam and hybrid.
- Great support, even for heavier sleepers.
- Long trial period.
Cons
- Pricey.
- Not suitable for those looking for a soft mattress.
- Limited pressure relief for side sleepers and those with back or joint pain.
The iSense Mattress Is Perfect For You If….
- You want a customizable comfort mattress.
- You and your partner have different firmness preferences.
- You want a foam or hybrid mattress that sleeps cool.
Conclusion
So, is the iSense mattress worth it?
It depends.
If you generally love firm mattresses, the iSense mattress is great. You can adjust comfort from medium-firm to extra-firm.
But if you prefer a soft or medium comfort mattress with more pressure relief and a deeper hug, probably just get a cheaper memory foam mattress.
Where to Buy
How iSense Compares to Sleep Number
Sleep Number is another mattress – or rather a series of mattresses – that uses air to adjust mattress comfort.
The most significant difference between Sleep Number and iSense is that Sleep Number uses much bigger air chambers that cover most of the mattress. In contrast, iSense uses microchambers that are only at the center of the mattress.
The result is that Sleep Number is much more versatile in terms of how soft or firm you can make it. This is especially so for the Performance and Innovation series mattresses, which can feel quite plush.
Overall, Sleep Number mattresses are closer to being air mattresses with some foam for added support and comfort. In contrast, iSense mattresses are regular mattresses with some air chambers added.
If you are not a big fan of air mattresses, stick with iSense. But if you want more customizability in terms of firmness, go with Sleep Number.
Price-wise, Sleep Number is all over the map.
Their base models are cheaper than iSense, while the premium Performance and Innovation mattresses are in the same rough price range as iSense except for the Sleep Number 360 i10 and iLE, which are a lot more expensive.
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