How to Compare Air Beds

Check whether each air bed has a single or dual-air chamber. Single chambers are less flexible in terms of adjustment, while dual-chambers allow both partners to adjust their side to meet their comfort needs.

Ask the salesperson or manufacturer how to adjust the bed. Some basic air beds require manual adjustment, which means users must get out of bed and activate a pump, or release air from the bed through a valve. Other models have remote control adjustment, allowing users to add or remove air from the bed with the push of a button.

Compare the appearance of each bed. The most basic air beds may resemble a camping-style inflatable mattress, while others look no different from a traditional spring-coil mattress. If the appearance of your bed is important, ask to see each model without added padding or covers.

Inquire about the thickness and the type of foam used on each bed. Thicker padding generally provides more comfort and added protection for the air pockets. Thinner pads may be less comfortable for some users. Try each bed to compare different types of foam as well as different thicknesses until you find one that works for you.

Inquire about the range of adjustments. The firmness or softness of an air bed is determined by the volume of air within. Some beds may allow for hundreds of different settings, while others have a limited range. If you like a very firm or very soft bed, make sure each model you are considering is capable of a reaching that level of firmness or softness.

Visit an air bed dealer to try different models. No matter how well a bed matches your desired specifications on paper, there's no way of knowing how the bed will feel until you try it. Use the guide in the Resources section to help you compare different beds in person, and don't feel shy about making yourself comfortable in each bed before making a purchase.