Innersprings and Pocketed Coils
All of the Sealy Response mattresses features springs as the main support. These mattresses have a traditional feel, with plenty of bounce. The entry level beds features a more traditional innerspring unit where the metal coils are connected to each other and move together when compressed. The more expensive versions have a more modern pocketed-coil support (Sealy calls these 'encased' coils). This type of coil moves independently from other coils, and almost always provide better motion isolation (important if you are easily disturbed by a partner's movements).
Let's take a closer look at the Sealy Response models and how they compare to each other.
Adjustable Base Compatibility
It's important to note that not all of the Response mattresses are compatible with adjustable bases. The Essential models, specifically, are not compatible. So if you plan (or plan in the future) to pair this mattress with an adjustable base, be sure to double check that feature when considering which version to buy.
Sealy Response Essential
There are two models in Sealy's entry-level innerspring line: basically a basic traditional mattress and a companion pillow-top version.
Sealy Response |
Mattress Height |
Queen-size |
Essential Cushion Firm |
11" |
$399 |
Essential Pillow Top Cushion Firm |
11" |
$599 |
The low-priced Essential mattresses in Sealy's Response line are very traditional, with connected innerspring for support, and a little bit of foam padding on top. The pillow top version has an extra couple of inches of foam. Both are very bouncy mattresses.

Sealy Response Performance
The next models up in the Sealy Response line are a significant upgrade from the Essential mattresses. These four beds all have pocketed-coil support units. All have stronger coils around the edge for improved edge support. And all have a feature called "Moisture Protect," a cover with moisture-wicking properties.
These beds also have Posturepedic Technology, which in the Response models amounts to an extra piece of foam in the middle third of the bed.
You're getting more premium comfort foam compared to the Essential mattresses. And these beds have handles on the two long sides.
Sealy Response |
Mattress Height |
Queen-size |
Performance Cushion Firm |
12.5" |
$499 |
Performance Pillow Top Cushion Firm |
14" |
$749 |
Performance Plush |
12.5" |
$499 |
Performance Pillow Top Plush |
14" |
$749 |

Sealy Response Premium
There are 5 models in the highest-end part of the Response collection.
These include the same Posturepedic Technology as the Performance models (an extra piece of foam in the middle third of the bed). They have two more handles (one each on the short ends of the bed), and feature more memory foam than the other Response mattresses.
The more plush, pillow-top versions have 3"-4" of memory foam, so you get more of that slow responding memory foam feel (though if memory feel is what you're after, you may want to look at the Sealy Conform or Sealy Hybrid collections).
The Premium models have what Sealy calls an allergen-protection feature. This is something added to the moisture-wicking cover meant to reduce allergens like dust and mites.
Sealy Response |
Mattress Height |
Queen-size |
Premium Cushion Firm |
14.5"" |
$1,299 |
Premium Pillow Top Cushion Firm |
16" |
$1,399 |
Premium Plush |
14.5" |
$1,299 |
Premium Pillow Top Plush |
16" |
$1,399 |
Premium Ultra Firm |
12" |
$1,299 |

Other Factors
Delivery and Returns
Sealy mattresses are sold in mattress stores and department stores. You cannot buy them online directly through the Sealy website, but you may be able to find them from other online stores.
Delivery and returns policies will vary widely depending on where you buy your mattress.
Warranty
Warranty information for each mattress is included on the mattress "Law Label" at the store, and vary depending on the model. Be sure to talk to your salesperson about warranty terms, and particularly about the body impression warranty, which will tell you how much of a permanent depression may form to be covered under warranty. For these Sealy innerspring mattresses, it's 1.5".
To obtain warranty service, you will be responsible for shipping the mattress back to the company or retailer, and some warranties are pro-rated, meaning you may only be entitled to partial credit, dependent on years of ownership. See: Sealy warranty info