The gloves are on and the Sleeping Duck Vs Koala showdown is about to begin!
Who will be the victor in this 2021 main event?

If you’re thinking about buying either mattress, we’ll break down everything you need to know.
Let’s dive right into it.
When to Use The Sleeping Duck Mattress
Melbourne based and founded in 2014, Sleeping Duck has had some quick success, being featured on Shark Tank and have continuously evolved their mattress overtime.
4 unique layers makes the Sleeping Duck Mach II a popular mattress, built to high standards from the BreatheTech cover to the Motherboard multi-zoned spring system.
With the ability to customise the firmness options, the mattress is a sound option for those who aren’t sure on which mattress is most suitable for them.

The Antigravity Surface foam cushions like memory foam and at the same time gives you the ability to move freely like latex.
In saying so:
The mattress is quite balanced and suitable to a range of sleep types.
If you’re not sure which mattress would be most suitable for you, the Sleeping Duck Mach II is a favourable choice for the undecided shopper who wants to pick a quality option.
Pros
Cons
When to Use The Koala Mattress
Sydney based Koala Sleep has come a long way since launching in 2015. They now operate in Japan and have expanded their product range well beyond their well known mattress.
Being the most popular mattress in a box in Australia, the Koala is one of the most rated.
If you’re a sleeper looking for a simple foam solution, this could be your choice.

Composed of 2 foam layers, the mattress is light and suitable for those who want to shop a trusted, highly rated brand.
Also, compared to the Sleeping Duck, the Koala is much cheaper.
For those of you who have greater budget considerations, this may be one to consider.
Pros
Cons
Sleeping Duck Vs Koala at a Glance
Brand | ![]() | ![]() |
---|---|---|
Ranking | 1st | 2nd |
Rating | 8.5/10 Quality Choice | 6.5/10 Budget Choice |
Single | $999 | $750 |
King Single | $1,099 | $850 |
Double | $1,349 | $950 |
Queen | $1,649 | $1,050 |
King | $1,799 | $1,250 |
Layers | 4 | 2 |
Firmness | 7/10 | 6.5/10 |
Warranty | 10 Years | 10 Years |
Night Trial | 100 Nights | 120 Nights |
Read Review |
For those of you who want a short and sweet answer:
The Sleeping Duck is the better mattress overall.
In short:
Although the Koala is cheaper, the Sleeping Duck is of much higher quality.
For those of you who want more detail…
Be sure to read on!
How We Evaluated: Sleeping Duck Vs Koala
Here’s how we compared the mattresses and what to expect in this Sleeping Duck vs Koala showdown:
3. Comfort, Firmness and Durability
4. Sleeping Position Suitability
We took the core features of both mattresses and compared them directly against one another.
This way, our Sleeping Duck Vs Koala comparison and final decision would be decided by what matters most to mattress shoppers.
Sleeping Duck Vs Koala Feature Comparison
1. Size, Price and Value
This section will assist two types of shoppers:
- Those who are more budget inclined and
- Customers who are more quality concerned
Sleeping Duck
Consisting of 4 foam uniquely designed layers, the Sleeping Duck Mach II is a strong consideration for those looking for a high quality and customisable mattress.
In fact:
You’re able to customise firmness in over 5 locations of the mattress.
Mach II sizes and prices are as listed:
- Single: $999
- King Single: $1,099
- Double: $1,349
- Queen: $1,649
- King: $1,799
Koala Mattress
The Koala mattress on the other hand is priced more competitively and at the same time, is more simplistic in its feature and benefit offering.
It’s currently available in the following sizes and prices:
- Single: $750
- King Single: $850
- Double: $950
- Queen: $1,050
- King: $1,250
Feature Winner
- Quality Pick: SD Mach II
- Budget Pick: Koala
If you’re looking to change your current mattress, the Sleeping Duck Mach II or Koala mattress would both be an upgrade
However, if you want the crème de la crème, look no further than the Sleeping Duck Mach II.
2. Mattress Layers and Care
What makes up a mattress?
Well the layers of course.
Within this Sleeping Duck vs Koala comparison, we’ll take a deeper look at the layers that make up both.
Sleeping Duck Mach II
From top down, the SD Mach II has the following precisely engineered layers:
1. BreatheTech Cover: Bamboo made, highly breathable, silky smooth feeling and machine washable
2. Antigravity Surface Foam: Combination feel of latex and memory foam - made from high density AirGrown polyurethane foam, GECA approved and quite breathable

3. Component Adapt Customisation System: This layer allows you to select the firmness of your mattress, either medium or firm. Also made from high density AirGrown polyurethane foam
4. Motherboard Multi-Zoned System: Lastly, a twice tempered steel spring base, with independent spring support and designated zones to ensure a balanced and aligned sleep
Koala Mattress
In comparison is the Koala mattress with the following:
1. Kloudcell Comfort Layer: 6cm made from polyurethane foam, designed to absorb pressure and promote airflow throughout the mattress. A distinct feature of this layer is zero partner disturbance
2. Ecofoam Support Layer: 16c, ultra-resilient foam, built to provide support and ensure the longevity of the mattress

Mattress Care
When it comes to mattress care, the Sleeping Duck and Koala mattress have you covered.
The mattresses provided by these companies come with a removable washable cover.
Making them both easy to clean.
However, the cover of the Mach II is of higher quality:
- Being made from spun bamboo yarn
- Has a very soft and comfortable touch and
- Is more breathable than the Koala cover
Feature Winner
Sophisticated yet simple layers, that provide a superior sleeping experience compared to that of the Koala.
3. Comfort, Firmness and Durability
What sleeping experience should you expect with these mattresses and how do they compare?
Sleeping Duck
The Sleeping Duck Mach II is available in three options, medium, firm and custom.
- Medium firmness: Rating of 5.5/10
- Firm firmness: Rating 7/10
- 5 zones: Custom to you
With regards to comfort, this really depends on which firmness setting you’d prefer.
You also have the option to adjust the firmness across 5 different sections of the mattress from head to toe.
This would be useful if you require, say, more support on your hips but less for your head.
Koala Mattress
On the other hand, the Koala mattress has one firmness rating being 6.5/10.
Some customers have complained though that after 6-12 months, they notice the mattress starts to sag, not making it the most durable option for some.
In comparison, the Mach II is quite durable and will last for years to come.
Feature Winner
We rated the SD as being more suitable for a wider range of sleepers.
It’s quality of options and customisation make it a clear stand out here.
4. Sleeping Position Suitability
Are you a back, front, side or combination sleeper?
Your sleeping position could determine which mattress is best for you.
Sleeping Duck Mach II
- Medium option: More most suitable for side sleepers
- Firm option: Suitable for back sleepers
- Customisable option: Combination/ front sleeper compatible
Koala Mattress
With one firmness option being rated 6.5/10, this Koala is most suitable for back and side sleepers.
Some side sleepers may find this slightly too firm, whilst others find it okay.
Feature Winner
Catering to a wider range of sleeping types and positions.
5. Night Trial, Returns and Warranty
This section of the Sleeping Duck vs Koala comparison will tell you exactly what you need to be aware of if you decide to buy either product.
Both companies offer a 10 year warranty and have very similar warranty policies.
- Sleeping Duck offers a 100 night free trial
- Whereas Koala offers a 120 night free trial
When it comes to returns, Sleeping Duck offers a full refund and they also cover the cost of the return.
Similar to Sleeping Duck, if you decide to return your mattress during the trial period, Koala will provide a full refund granted the mattress is still in good condition.
If you live in a metropolitan area, Koala will return your mattress free of charge.
However:
If you live outside one of these areas, you may be charged a return fee.
Feature Winner
We’re calling this one a draw, for these reasons:
- Same warranty length
- Koala offers a longer night trial by 20 days
- Sleeping Duck’s return policy is slightly more flexible
6. Environmentally Friendly
How do these companies take care of the environment’s health?
When it comes to doing their part for the environment, both Sleeping Duck and Koala have really stepped their game up.
The foams these companies use are GECA (Good Environment Choice Australia) certified.
They have really put in the time and effort to adhere to such a high standard.
Being GECA certified means their products have been proven to be produced in a way which is environmentally responsible.
Feature Winner
With Sleeping Duck and Koala both doing their part for the environment, it's another draw here.
7. Payment Options
When it comes to buying your mattress online, it’s important to know what payment options you have available to you.
When purchasing the Sleeping Duck Mach II or Koala mattress, you have the following standard payment options:
- Mastercard
- PayPal
- Visa
There both also offer flexible, interest free monthly payment options:
- Afterpay
- Zip Money
Feature Winner
With both companies offering standard and flexible payment options…
A draw has been decided.
Nevertheless, it’s definitely good to know this in advance.
8. Delivery
Quite an important service to consider here.
If you want to buy either mattress, here’s what you need to know when it comes to your delivery options.
Both companies deliver their mattresses in a box and free of charge Australia wide.
Sleeping Duck offers a Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. delivery.
With deliveries expected to arrive within 5 – 10 business days.
Koala offers the same standard delivery as Sleeping Duck.
However:
They also offer weekday evening and Saturday morning deliveries.
And…
If you order your mattress before 2 p.m. on a weekday and live in the following metropolitan areas:
- Adelaide
- Brisbane
- Melbourne
- Perth
- Sydney
You can have your mattress delivered on the same day.
Otherwise you can expect your mattress delivery within 1 - 5 business days.
Feature Winner
Offering a lot more flexibility around delivery, Koala is the clear victor.
Standout Features: Sleeping Duck Vs Koala
Sleeping Duck Hybrid Mattress
Comprising both of foam layers and a spring system, the Sleeping Duck’s hybrid construct is a key standout feature.
What makes this so great?
Well it’s really a combination of the best of the past and the latest developments in mattress technology.
The foam to spring build provide sleepers with a superior sleeping experience.
Koala Charity Work
Having partnered with WWF Australia for some time now…
And donating a portion of each sale to help save Koalas from going extinct in NSW, Koala really does their part to help our furry little friends.
Awesome stuff!
When To Shop For An Alternative Product
In this section, we really wanted to highlight and provide an alternative for both products.
Noa Home Original - Sleeping Duck Mach II Alternative

Noa Home - SD Mach II Alternative
Simply put, the Noa Home Original is a hybrid mattress as well.
It comes jam packed with features.
Customers praise it’s high quality and value for money.
And this is what makes it the Mach II alternative.
Similar features, but not price tags.
In fact Noa Home is almost 50% cheaper across all size options:
Mattress Size | Noa Home | Sleeping Duck |
---|---|---|
Single | $499 | $999 |
King Single | $599 | $1,099 |
Double | $699 | $1,349 |
Queen | $799 | $1,649 |
King | $899 | $1,799 |
Emma Sleep - Koala Mattress Alternative

Emma Sleep - Koala Alternative
For those of you who are looking for a memory foam mattress:
The Emma Sleep is a higher quality option compared to that of the Koala.
It has 4 layers in total
- Climate-Regulating Cover: Removable elastic and breathable cover. Machine washable and also supports air circulation
- Eco-Friendly Hyper Foam: Bouncy, breathable layer of hyper foam that features zero partner disturbance like the Koala
- Comfort Layer: This is a 7 zoned pressure-relivering layer. Designed to cater to all sleeping types, it’s built to cater to your body and allow it to rest and recover after a long day
- Pressure-Relieving Point-Elastic Foam Layer: The bottom layer is built to additional stability to the mattress whilst offering greater support and durability
And the best part, it’s cheaper than the Koala mattress:
Mattress Size | Emma Sleep | Koala Mattress |
---|---|---|
Single | $699 | $750 |
King Single | $799 | $850 |
Double | $899 | $950 |
Queen | $999 | $1,050 |
King | $1,099 | $1,250 |
Sleeping Duck Vs Koala: The Winner
So who won in this epic battle of Sleeping Duck vs Koala?
Offering quality, customisation and superior sleeping experience…
The Sleeping Duck Mach II is victorious in this mattress battle.
However, that’s not to say that the Koala mattress isn’t for you.
As a recap, here’s what to consider for across both mattresses when making your decision:
Go for the Sleeping Duck Mach II if:
- You’re after a high quality mattress
- Want greater levels of customisation
- You don’t want to commit to one firmness level
- You’re uncertain what firmness option you’d prefer
Go for the Koala mattress if:
- You have greater budget considerations
- Prefer a simple mattress
- Like a firm sleeping feel
Now It’s Your Turn To Put The Gloves On
There you have it - Our Sleeping Duck vs Koala review!
Which company do you prefer? Let us know and share your shopping experiences in the comment section.
Koala mattress arrived on same of ordering which was amazing service.. On unpacking it was incredible there was a cuddly koala inside.. so cute and thank you..
I’ve just tried the koala loved it..
Its like sleeping on a cloud feels light under your body plus very cool in temperature..Great support without being harsh or feeling as though you’re being wrapped around it or sinking into it… I just felt I was on top of the mattress such an airy feel to it.. Incredible feeling and eased my aches and pains…
I have a bad back.. neck pain which would result in disturbed sleep..
This mattress was a dream to me it was honestly the best matrass I’d ever had or slept on.. But unfortunately I was very reluctant to return it due to irritated eyes???
There must had been something in the material I was allergic to ( I DO NOT HAVE ALLEGIES)
So over the next 4 weeks I alterned sleep from the old mattress and koala… when I went back to the old mattress my eyes had no problems, the next evening I’d try the koala but the following morning my eyes were swollen irritable and very weepy… It was with deep regret I had to call koala to pick up the mattress.
There were no troubles in returning.. Was picked up with no problems.. the full refund of the money deposited into my bank account as promised.. no charge for delivery or pick up and you were even alloeed to keep the cuddly toy koala with his blue waistcoat..
If I did not have thevallergic reaction to the mattress I would never have returned it.. It was perfect for me… I aired it as instructed and followed all the recommendations… I used a mattress protector and that was washed every morning after I slept on the mattress the night before.. I was hoping whatever irritated my eyes, would, over a period of time, improve and be irradiated but on this occasion it wasn’t to be…
I would have no problems
recommending the koala mattress, even though it did irritate my eyes..the sophisticated technology that gives you a wonderful mattress that in turn gives you a restful night sleep is truly amazing… 🦉🛌💤🌛🌟
Thanks for sharing your experience Sharron!