The average person is going to assume the only option available to them is a traditional box spring.
While the box spring continues to be a go-to solution for those who want a sturdy surface to rest on, it is still important to look at what else is out there.
This is the best way to make sure you are using a surface that’s good for the body and is also going to last a long time.
To figure out what is best, it’s time to compare a box spring vs plywood.
Box springs are softer, have good support, and offer excellent shock absorption when moving around. In comparison, plywood is firmer, works well with memory foam mattresses, and doesn’t make as much noise.
For the most part, you will want to take a look at the type of surface you are resting on. A person that will be using a memory foam mattress might be inclined to go with plywood as their base.
It is going to help stabilize the mattress and also avoid dealing with unwanted pain while resting in the same spot for long hours.
Here is a breakdown of how the comparison of box spring vs plywood plays out for bed buyers.
Best Box Spring (EDITOR’S CHOICE)
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Comparing Box Spring Vs Plywood
1. Firmness
When comparing a box spring to plywood, it’s important to start with the general feeling you’re going to get resting on them.
With a box spring, you are going to get good support but it is going to be softer.
This means it is going to have a lighter surface when resting on the mattress. This can be good with some mattresses, but can also cause others to fold in the middle, which is not a good feeling.
In comparison, plywood is straightforward when it comes to how well it works.
This is going to be a firm surface and it is not going to budge easily.
This is good for those who want consistency while they are sleeping.

2. Shock Absorption
Shock absorption is important for those who are tossing and turning during the night, especially with a partner.
If two people are resting on the mattress, it is common for the mattress to move while one person turns.
This is not ideal for the other person.
As a result, box springs do well in managing tossing and turning due to enhanced shock absorption.
While plywood does a good job of managing movement, it is not as good as box springs.
This might be important for those who do worry about being woken up in the middle of the night due to unwanted movement.
3. Noise Production
Noise generation is a concern people don’t think about as much as they should.
Box springs are noisy.
They make more noise due to their construction. This is disturbing for those who do have multiple people resting on the same mattress.
This type of noise is not easy to sleep through and it becomes annoying after a while. Even with a good mattress, box springs still make noise.
In comparison, plywood is not going to make as much noise due to how firm it is.

4. Comfort
The one detail most people are going to care about will be something as simple as overall comfort.
If you don’t enjoy resting on the bed, how are you going to like the rest of your sleeping experience?
It is important to like the surface you are resting on while maximizing the features of your mattress.
With this in mind, box springs are not as comfortable because they are softer. This means they tend to have more movement and also make more noise.
In comparison, plywood is a more structured solution that works well with memory foam mattresses.
Since most people are trending towards this type of mattress, it makes sense to go with plywood as the base.
Final Thoughts
Look into these details when comparing a box spring vs plywood.
Box springs are known for being softer, making more noise, and offering good shock absorption. In comparison, plywood works well with memory foam mattresses, is firmer, and will make less noise.
It’s important to think about the type of mattress you are going to be using.
This can often dictate the direction you choose to go in.
If you want a quiet, easy-going experience then it is likely best to stick to plywood. Box springs are better for those who want a softer base.
It will be a subjective decision but more people are leaning towards plywood bases because they are simply more beneficial and well-made.
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