When it comes to camping air mattresses, two popular options that often come to mind are the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm and the Intex Comfort Plush Elevated Dura-Beam. While both products aim to provide a comfortable sleeping experience in the great outdoors, they differ significantly in terms of design, features, and performance.
Design and Construction
The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm is a high-end inflatable mattress designed specifically for backpacking and camping. It features a unique triangular core matrix that provides excellent insulation and support, while keeping the weight and packed size to a minimum. The XTherm has an R-value of 5.7, making it one of the warmest and most insulating air mattresses on the market. The mattress is made from durable, abrasion-resistant materials and has a comfortable thickness of 2.5 inches.
In contrast, the Intex Comfort Plush Elevated Dura-Beam is a more affordable, entry-level option that prioritizes comfort and convenience over lightweight design. This mattress features a sturdy Dura-Beam construction that provides excellent support and stability, while the plush flocking top offers a soft and comfortable sleeping surface. The Intex mattress has a thickness of 3 inches and an R-value of 2.5, making it less insulating than the XTherm but still suitable for warmer weather camping.
Inflation and Deflation
The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm comes with a proprietary valve system that allows for quick and easy inflation, while the Intex Comfort Plush Elevated Dura-Beam features a traditional valve design. The XTherm can be inflated using a pump or by mouth, while the Intex mattress requires an electric pump or a lot of manual effort to reach the recommended pressure.
Deflation is also a consideration, as the XTherm's valve system allows for rapid deflation and packing, making it ideal for backpackers who need to move quickly. The Intex mattress, on the other hand, can be more difficult to deflate and pack due to its larger size and less efficient valve design.
Weight and Packed Size
The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm is significantly lighter and more compact than the Intex Comfort Plush Elevated Dura-Beam. The XTherm weighs in at just 1 pound 1 ounce and packs down to a tiny 11 x 4 inches, making it easy to stow away in a backpack or camping gear bag. In contrast, the Intex mattress weighs 6 pounds 10 ounces and has a packed size of 17 x 7 inches, making it more suitable for car camping or base camp scenarios.
Comfort and Support
Both mattresses provide excellent comfort and support, but in different ways. The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm offers a firmer, more supportive sleeping surface that is ideal for side sleepers and backpackers who need to conserve energy. The Intex Comfort Plush Elevated Dura-Beam, on the other hand, features a softer, more plush top layer that provides excellent pressure relief and comfort for back and stomach sleepers.
Conclusion
When it comes to camping air mattresses, the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm and the Intex Comfort Plush Elevated Dura-Beam cater to different needs and preferences. The XTherm is a high-end, lightweight option that excels in cold weather and backpacking scenarios, while the Intex mattress is a more affordable, comfortable choice for car camping and warmer weather.
Ultimately, the decision between these two products will depend on your specific needs and priorities as a camper. If you value lightweight design, excellent insulation, and compact packed size, the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm is an excellent choice. However, if you prioritize comfort, support, and affordability, the Intex Comfort Plush Elevated Dura-Beam is a great option to consider.
