When choosing an innerspring or hybrid mattress, coil count and coil gauge are two crucial factors that determine durability, support, and comfort. Understanding how these elements interact can help you find the right mattress for your sleeping preferences.
Coil Count
The springiness of mattresses cannot be replicated simply with memory foam or latex. Mattress coils are typically made out of tempered steel and form the core of any mattress. Coil count refers to the number of individual coils within a mattress. A higher coil count generally means better support, durability, and even weight distribution.
Typical Coil Counts by Mattress Size
| Mattress Type | Low Coil Count | Standard Coil Count | High Coil Count |
|---|---|---|---|
| Twin | < 300 | 300 – 500 | 500+ |
| Full | < 400 | 400 – 700 | 700+ |
| Queen | < 450 | 450 – 900 | 900+ |
| King | < 500 | 500 – 1000 | 1000+ |
How Coil Count Affects Sleep
Sweet Spot (600-1000 coils for Queen): For most sleepers, a queen-size mattress with 600–1000 coils offers a balance of comfort and durability without unnecessary cost.
Higher Coil Count (Better Support & Longevity): Mattresses with more coils distribute weight more evenly, preventing sagging and reducing pressure points.
Lower Coil Count (Less Support & Durability): Fewer coils can lead to premature wear and discomfort over time, especially for heavier sleepers.
Note: Some manufacturers inflate coil counts by using micro-coils or including layers of coils in hybrid mattresses. While extra coils can improve contouring, quantity alone doesn’t always indicate quality.
Coil Gauge
Coil gauge measures the thickness of the wire used in the mattress coils. It is expressed in numbers ranging from 12 (thickest) to 18 (thinnest).
Coil Gauge Ratings and Their Effects
| Coil Gauge | Wire Thickness | Firmness Level | Durability | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 | Thickest | Very Firm | High | Heavy sleepers, back sleepers |
| 13 | Thick | Firm | High | Those needing extra support |
| 14 | Medium | Medium-Firm | Moderate | Combination sleepers |
| 15 | Thin | Medium-Soft | Moderate | Side sleepers, lighter individuals |
| 16-18 | Thinnest | Softest | Lower | Plush feel, pressure relief seekers |
How Coil Gauge Affects Sleep
- Lower gauge (thicker coils, 12-13): Provides firm support and lasts longer but can feel too stiff for some. Best for back and stomach sleepers.
- Medium gauge (14-15): Offers a balance of comfort and support, suitable for most sleepers.
- Higher gauge (16-18): Delivers a softer, more plush feel but may wear out faster. Ideal for side sleepers who need more pressure relief.
Tip: If you want a soft feel but long-lasting support, consider a hybrid mattress with high-gauge comfort coils and low-gauge support coils.
Coil Working Turns
Another important factor is the number of “working turns” in each coil, a measurement of how tightly the coil is wound. Coils constructed with a higher number of working turns will result in both a softer and more durable mattress, since the work of supporting your body is spread throughout the spring. Working turns can be counted by tracing the wire with your finger — each time your finger travels 180 degrees around the coil translates to one working turn.
Coil Type
The type of coils used in a mattress affects how it feels and performs over time.
Common Coil Types
| Coil Type | Description | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bonnell Coils | Classic hourglass shape | Affordable, firm support | Less durable, prone to motion transfer |
| Offset Coils | Hinged hourglass design for better contouring | Durable, reduces motion transfer | Can be expensive |
| Continuous Coils | Single wire forming interconnected coils | Budget-friendly, sturdy | Less motion isolation |
| Pocketed Coils | Individually wrapped for independent movement | Best motion isolation, contouring | More expensive |
| Micro-Coils | Smaller pocketed coils in comfort layers | Extra responsiveness, breathability | Costly, adds to mattress height |
Best Coil Type for Different Sleepers
- Side Sleepers: Pocketed or micro-coils for pressure relief.
- Back Sleepers: Offset or pocketed coils for balanced support.
- Stomach Sleepers: Bonnell or lower-gauge pocketed coils for firmness.
- Couples: Pocketed coils to minimize motion transfer.
Best for Firm Support & Durability
- Coil Count: 700+ (Queen)
- Coil Gauge: 12-13
- Coil Type: Offset or Bonnell
- Best for: Heavy sleepers, back sleepers, stomach sleepers
Best for Balanced Comfort & Support
- Coil Count: 800+ (Queen)
- Coil Gauge: 13-15
- Coil Type: Pocketed or hybrid
- Best for: Combination sleepers, couples
Best for Plush Comfort & Pressure Relief
- Coil Count: 900+ (Queen)
- Coil Gauge: 15-18
- Coil Type: Pocketed or micro-coils
- Best for: Side sleepers, lightweight individuals