(This story originally appeared in the June 2005 issue of Consumer Reports.)

Do the differences below make the Sealy Posturepedic Sapphire LX Firm sparkle more brightly than the Sealy Posturepedic Ruby LX Cushion Firm? You’d need to judge for yourself. Our consultants said the two mattresses were similar in firmness and overall comfort. They’re sold with the same box spring. Prices are list, for a twin set.

Essential information: Check out our free buyer's guide to mattresses and watch the video on shopping for a mattress (right).

Sealy Posturepedic Ruby LX Cushion Firm		Sealy Posturepedic Sapphire LX Firm
$700		$1,400
13/16 inches of polyurethane foam and polyester batting. < Quilt fill > 11/2 inches of polyurethane foam and polyester batting. Good-quality damask. 4x8-inch tight stitch pattern. < Ticking > Excellent damask; stretchy fabric on top. Open stitching for soft feel. 2 inches of flat polyurethane foam. < Padding > 41/2   inches of egg-crate polyurethane; thin layers of flat and memory foam. 580 < Coils > 660