Sleeping Duck Mach II vs Ausbeds Aurora: Which one is right for you?

The Ausbeds Aurora and Sleeping Duck Mach II are both adjustable hybrid mattresses, but they take different approaches.

The Sleeping Duck uses swappable polyurethane foam inserts over one fixed spring unit. The Aurora uses natural latex and 1 micro spring layer over pocket springs selected for body weight.

The main differences come down to three things:

1. matched spring support rather than one fixed spring unit
2. natural latex instead of polyurethane foam, and
3. a modular system where every component can be accessed and replaced.

Choose the Sleeping Duck if you value mattress-in-a-box convenience, nationwide delivery and split foam inserts. Choose the Aurora if you prefer natural latex, a firmer and more direct surface, matched spring support and a mattress that can be repaired over time.

Having slept on the Sleeping Duck, here is what I noticed

I owned a Sleeping Duck Mach II for a year and tried the medium, firm and extra-firm inserts. The inserts clearly change the surface feel, but the spring unit underneath stays the same.

Firm underlying support

The Mach II spring system feels firm. That can work well for heavier back or stomach sleepers, but lighter sleepers and side sleepers may still feel pressure at the shoulder or hip even with a softer insert.

Polyurethane comfort layers

The Sleeping Duck uses polyurethane foam in its upper layers. The foam provides useful cushioning and absorbs movement well, but polyurethane generally softens sooner and stores more heat than natural latex.

Useful split firmness

Sleeping Duck can provide different foam inserts on each side of a Queen or King. That is useful when two people prefer different surface feels. The underlying spring tension remains the same across both sides.

Who should consider the Sleeping Duck Mach II?

• You want a mattress delivered compressed in a box.
• You need free delivery across more of Australia.
• You want different foam inserts on each side of a Queen or King.
• You prefer a firm underlying feel.
• You are comfortable using polyurethane foam comfort layers.

Who should consider the Ausbeds Aurora?

• You want a firmer, more direct latex surface with 1 micro spring layer.
• You want the main springs selected for your body weight.
• You prefer GOLS-certified organic natural latex over polyurethane comfort foam.
• You want to access, adjust and replace every internal component.
• You want 3 at-home firmness settings and 2 free firmness swaps during the 7-month trial.

The Aurora uses medium latex as standard. Its medium springs suit sleepers under 100kg, while firm springs are used from 100kg. Firm latex is available by request but is too firm for most applications. For a softer, more cushioned surface, compare the Cloud.

Key differences explained

Fixed springs vs matched spring support

The Sleeping Duck changes firmness through its foam inserts. Its main spring unit does not change with body weight.

The Aurora separates the surface feel from the support underneath. Medium latex gives it a balanced, responsive surface. We then use medium springs below 100kg and firm springs from 100kg. For couples, the heavier person’s weight determines the spring recommendation.

Polyurethane vs natural latex

Sleeping Duck’s interchangeable inserts are polyurethane foam. They make adjustment straightforward and provide good motion isolation, but polyurethane softens with use.

The Aurora uses 5cm of GOLS-certified organic natural latex. Latex feels responsive rather than slow-sinking, sleeps cooler than thick polyurethane layers and generally lasts much longer.

Insert adjustment vs full modularity

Sleeping Duck lets you change the foam inserts, including separate inserts for each partner. The spring unit remains sealed inside the mattress.

Every Aurora component is accessible through its zippered cover. The latex, micro springs, main spring unit, felt and cover can all be adjusted or replaced. That means a worn or unsuitable part can be changed without replacing the complete mattress.

Cushioning and sleeping position

The Aurora has 1 micro spring layer and suits people who want less cushioning and a more direct surface. Stomach sleepers often prefer it, while back sleepers can choose between the Aurora and the more cushioned Cloud.

Most side sleepers prefer the Cloud’s 2 micro spring layers because they provide more cushioning for the shoulder and hip. Soft latex is available only with the Cloud.

This comparison is based on information published by the brands and other publicly available sources. Specifications, prices and policies can change, so let us know if anything appears out of date.