What Are the Differences Between Bonnell, Pocket, and Continuous Spring Machines?

Mattress spring machines may look similar on the surface, but the types of springs they produce—Bonnell, pocket, or continuous—are very different in function, structure, and performance.
The main differences lie in spring shape, motion isolation, machine complexity, and cost efficiency. Each machine type serves a different market need.
Understanding these differences helps buyers select the right machinery for their target customers and production goals.
What Does Each Machine Type Actually Produce?

Each type of spring system delivers a unique sleeping experience and manufacturing process.
Here’s a side-by-side comparison:
| Spring Type | Coil Design | Structure | cURL Too many subrequests. | Common Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| cURL Too many subrequests. | Hourglass coil | Interconnected by helical wire | Firm and bouncy | Budget & hospitality |
| Pocket Spring | Barrel-shaped individual coil | Each coil in fabric pocket | Adaptive and quiet | Premium & hybrid |
| Continuous Spring | Linked coils from one wire | One-piece mesh construction | Supportive but firm | Value-oriented markets |
Each machine type is designed specifically to produce one of the above structures with precision and efficiency.
How Do Bonnell Spring Machines Work?

Bonnell spring machines produce hourglass-shaped coils that are then connected together using spiral wires. This design is traditional and still popular in emerging markets.
Key machine features:
- High-speed coiling and knotting
- Spiral wire insertion system
- Robust mechanical construction
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- Lower machine cost
- High output speed
- Simple to maintain
Disadvantages:
- Poor motion isolation
- Shorter product life
- Louder in use
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Key machine features:
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Disadvantages:
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Key machine features:
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Disadvantages:
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| cURL Too many subrequests. | Bonnell Spring Machine | cURL Too many subrequests. | cURL Too many subrequests. |
|---|---|---|---|
| cURL Too many subrequests. | cURL Too many subrequests. | cURL Too many subrequests. | cURL Too many subrequests. |
| cURL Too many subrequests. | $ | $$$ | $$ |
| cURL Too many subrequests. | cURL Too many subrequests. | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ |
| cURL Too many subrequests. | Entry-level | Mid to high-end | Value range / commercial |
| Operator complexity | ★☆☆☆☆ (simple) | ★★★★☆ (advanced) | cURL Too many subrequests. |
Your choice depends on your production goals. If you’re focusing on budget markets, Bonnell or continuous machines are efficient. For premium mattress brands, pocket spring lines are essential.
What Type of Comfort Does Each Machine Enable?
Comfort is the ultimate customer goal, and the spring structure plays a big role.
Bonnell Springs
- Feel: Firm and uniform
- Best for: Back sleepers, budget buyers
- Weakness: Poor pressure relief and motion isolation
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- Feel: Responsive and contouring
- Best for: Side sleepers, couples
- Weakness: Higher cost per unit
Continuous Springs
- Feel: Uniform and supportive
- Best for: Children’s beds, basic hotel use
- Weakness: Lacks adaptive feel of pocket coils
How Does Maintenance Compare?
- Bonnell machines: Easy to maintain with basic mechanical knowledge. Less electronic dependence.
- Pocket machines: Require regular ultrasonic module cleaning and fabric tension checks. More moving parts.
- Continuous machines: Moderate maintenance; mostly focused on wire feeding and cutting wear.
We provide training videos cURL Too many subrequests. on-site setup with every machine to ensure smooth operation from day one.
Conclusion
Bonnell, pocket, and continuous spring machines each have unique production goals. If you want to compete in mid- to high-end mattress markets, pocket spring machines are a must. If you serve bulk or entry-level needs, Bonnell and continuous machines offer speed and simplicity.
Choosing the right machine means balancing product quality, production cost, and market demand.