Written by Julia Forbes, Lead Product Tester
As lead product tester for Sleep Advisor, I’ve laid down, jumped, and rolled on more mattresses than I can count. My team and I test several beds each week, and we’ve developed a keen sense for what makes a mattress memorable.
I won’t lie—while there are a lot of high-quality beds out there, there aren’t a lot with that “wow” factor. We’re a discerning bunch! But we do keep track of the mattresses that stand out, and I’ve collected them here, sorted by the different preferences and needs they target. In our opinion, these are the best mattresses you can buy today.
Our Top 10 Mattresses for 2024
- Helix Midnight – Editor’s Pick
- Nectar – Best Memory Foam Mattress
- DreamCloud – Best Mattress for Back Sleepers
- WinkBed – Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
- Helix Dawn – Best Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
- Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Cooling Mattress
- Saatva Classic – Best Mattress for Back Pain
- Nolah Evolution – Best Hybrid Mattress
- Plank Firm – Best Firm Mattress
- Titan Plus – Best Mattress for Heavy People
Best Mattresses of 2024 Video Review
Compare the Best Mattresses
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| Helix Midnight Mattress | Nectar Mattress | DreamCloud Original Mattress | WinkBed Mattress | Helix Dawn Mattress | Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress | Saatva Mattress | Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress | Titan Plus | |
| Rating | ||||||||||
| Firmness | Medium-firm: 6/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Multiple firmness options | Firm: 7.5/10 | Medium-firm: 6/10 | Multiple firmness options | Multiple firmness options | Multiple firmness options | Firm: 7.5/10 |
| Material | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Innerspring | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid |
| Cooling | — | — | — | — | — | — | ||||
| Warranty | 10-year warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | 10-year warranty | Lifetime Warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | 10-year warranty | 10-year warranty |
| Shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free white glove delivery | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping |
| Trial Period | 100 nights | 365 nights | 365 nights | 120 nights | 100 nights | 120 nights | 365 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights |
| Best For | Couples, Back Sleepers, Side Sleepers | Back Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Hip Pain, Joint Pain | Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Seniors | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hot Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Couples | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hot Sleepers, Seniors | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors | Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Seniors | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hip Pain, Seniors |
Our Criteria for the Best Mattresses
Comfort for Every Kind of Sleeper
The best mattress for one person may feel sub-par to another, depending on their primary sleeping position, body type, and loads of other factors. For this reason, we’ve selected a variety of mattresses that each meet a different need.
You’ll see firmness levels that range from pleasantly plush to firm-as-the-floor, as well as features designed for cooling, motion isolation, and addressing back pain. The one thing that unites all of these mattresses is that they’re the best in their class.
Near-Perfect Support
Almost every mattress on this list received a perfect 5 out of 5 score from the testing team for its support. The only exception is the Nectar, a memory foam bed that prioritizes pressure relief and received a 4 out of 5 for its support.
We think support is perhaps the most important element of a mattress, because it keeps your spine aligned and prevents uncomfortable sinkage. Without durable and even support, you’re at risk for discomfort, interrupted sleep, and back pain.
Well-Rounded Performance Scores Overall
We judge mattresses based on an extensive list of performance categories, so it makes sense that the best of the best should have good grades. All of the beds featured here earned at least a 4 out of 5 as their overall score, which results from a weighted average of the scores they received in each category.
Fair Pricing
When deciding on which beds to include, we didn’t want to favor egregiously expensive mattresses that wouldn’t be a realistic option for the average consumer. At the same time, we rejected beds that compromised on performance to sell at a low price.
All mattresses on this list cost between $1,000 and $2,500 for a queen when listed at their full price. This window creates a nice balance between affordability and quality, especially when you consider that most of these beds are often available at a heavy discount.
Best Mattresses of 2024
Helix Midnight – Editor’s Pick
Helix Midnight Mattress
Part of Helix’s core line of mattresses, the Midnight has a hybrid construction that’s particularly suited to back and side sleepers.
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Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Midnight Mattress
Part of Helix’s core line of mattresses, the Midnight has a hybrid construction that’s particularly suited to back and side sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Midnight Mattress
Part of Helix’s core line of mattresses, the Midnight has a hybrid construction that’s particularly suited to back and side sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the Helix Midnight Earned Best Mattress Overall
Helix has created several lines of mattresses to match the most common sleeping positions, and their Midnight model is designed for side sleepers. But that doesn’t mean it only works for these folks; in fact, this is one of the most perfectly balanced mattresses my team and I have encountered.
The Midnight earned stellar 5 out of 5 scores for its support, pressure relief, and motion isolation, which is a remarkable spread. I felt lifted and aligned by the coil unit, but pleasantly cradled by the foams.
I was delighted to find that the bed absorbed movement quite well, which is a rarity in a springy hybrid.
Its medium-firm feel should also work for a variety of sleeping positions and body types, making it an all-around great choice if you’re looking for your next new mattress.
I have only a couple caveats. Firstly, heavier folks and stomach sleepers might feel like this bed is too soft (never fear—Helix offers other models for folks in these demographics). And secondly, the edge support is very weak.
Testing Studio Soundbite
“It offers the perfect balanced medium feel: not too soft; not too firm. There’s definitely a sense of overall support.”
Loren Bullock, Former Lead Product Tester
Layers Inside the Helix Midnight
The Midnight is a hybrid mattress with six total layers and an 11.5-inch height.
- Layer 1 – Top Cover. A “soft touch” cover comes standard, but you can pay extra for a GlacioTex™ Cooling Cover if you sleep hot.
- Layer 2 – Memory Plus Foam. A proprietary foam meant to deliver soothing pressure relief to the shoulders and hips.
- Layers 3 & 4 – Helix Responsive Foam. These foams complement the cushiony layer above with increasing responsiveness and support.
- Layer 5 – Coils. Up to 1,000 springs help to buoy the body. The coils are individually wrapped to prevent too much transfer of motion—they only compress when pressure is directly applied, rather than passing movement to their neighbors.
- Layer 6 – DuraDense Foam. A thick and dependable base layer.
Customer Reviews of the Helix Midnight
The Helix Midnight rates 4.5 stars out of 5 on Helix’s website. The main negative is that reviewers tend to find it too soft for their liking and feel as though they’re sinking. But overall, users say they’re getting a great nights’ sleep and some pain relief.
Nectar – Best Memory Foam Mattress
Nectar Mattress
Nectar offers the deeper hug of a traditional memory foam bed but with updated cooling and a Forever warranty.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nectar Mattress
Nectar offers the deeper hug of a traditional memory foam bed but with updated cooling and a Forever warranty.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nectar Mattress
Nectar offers the deeper hug of a traditional memory foam bed but with updated cooling and a Forever warranty.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the Nectar Earned Best Memory Foam Mattress
As one of only two all-foam beds in this lineup, the Nectar faced stiff competition for the title of best memory foam bed. It won because it manages to combine upper layers of hugging, soft foams with a truly supportive base and medium firmness. Other foam mattresses tend to compromise on at least one of these aspects.
The foam contours to your silhouette but also reforms pretty quickly, meaning the Nectar scored high in both pressure relief and responsiveness.
I felt the best when I tested it on my back—it’s a seamless fit for that position. Unsurprisingly, it also received a perfect 5 out of 5 for its motion-isolating powers.
That being said, I can’t in good conscience recommend the Nectar for heavyweight folks or stomach sleepers like myself. It just won’t give you the same lift as a hybrid bed.
Testing Studio Soundbite
“You can sink into the bed easily from the top two layers, but still feel plenty of support—especially around the lumbar—from the firm, dense foam at the base.”
Julia Forbes, Lead Product Tester
Layers Inside the Nectar
The Nectar is 12 inches tall with four layers.
- Layer 1 – Cover. Polyethylene fibers in this cover help to redirect heat.
- Layer 2 – Gel Memory Foam (2 inches). A plush layer that sinks easily and molds around your pressure points.
- Layer 3 – Transitional Foam (3 inches). A more responsive layer that gives the bed some crucial bounce.
- Layer 4 – ActiveSupport Foam (7 inches). A base that bolsters the layers above and promotes spine alignment.
Customer Reviews of the Nectar
With staggering 52,000 reviews on Nectar’s website, the Nectar mattress has an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars. One common customer complaint about the Nectar mattress is its longer-than-average break-in period, while many customers praise its excellent value and comfort once fully settled.
DreamCloud – Best Mattress for Back Sleepers
DreamCloud Original Mattress
Luxurious hybrid at a great price with a lifetime warranty.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
DreamCloud Original Mattress
Luxurious hybrid at a great price with a lifetime warranty.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
DreamCloud Original Mattress
Luxurious hybrid at a great price with a lifetime warranty.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the DreamCloud Earned Best Mattress for Back Sleepers
Although it’s called the DreamCloud, this mattress is more supportive than pillowy. Thankfully, that’s what you want if you’re a back sleeper.
This hybrid mattress has an initially plush feel from multiple foam layers, but underneath that them is a robust coil system that provides plenty of lift. When it comes to spine alignment, the DreamCloud is a star, and I enjoyed how boosted I felt atop the mattress.
The materials in the DreamCloud all do a pretty good job of absorbing motion, as well as responding quickly to movement on the top of the bed. I’d recommend it to both couples and combination sleepers without reservation. It doesn’t have the strongest edge support, though, earning a middling 3 out of 5 from us in this category.
Testing Studio Soundbite
“When it comes to spine alignment, you best believe it’s going to keep you from sinking into weird angles.”
Julia Forbes, Lead Product Tester
Layers Inside the DreamCloud
The DreamCloud has seven layers and stands 12 inches tall.
- Layer 1 – Cashmere Blend Cover. The top cover is made of a cashmere blend that feels velvety to the touch.
- Layer 2 – Contouring Quilted Foam. A layer of quilted plush foam for welcoming softness.
- Layer 3 – Supportive Quilted Foam. A layer of supportive foam that’s a bit more bracing.
- Layer 4 – Gel-Infused Memory Foam. This layer molds to the outline of your body while absorbing pressure.
- Layer 5 – Dynamic Transition Foam. Foam with a firmer feel that encourages a neutral spine
- Layer 6 – Coils. Pocketed coils respond readily to the body’s movements. The coils around the edges of the bed are also reinforced.
- Layer 7 – Base Layer. A layer of dense foam.
Customer Reviews of the DreamCloud
The DreamCloud Original scores a solid 4.6 out of 5 stars among 8,000 reviews on its site. While some customers appreciate the value and affordability of the DreamCloud Original mattress, others find it to be on the heavier side, which could make moving or rotating the mattress more challenging.
WinkBed – Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
WinkBed Mattress
WinkBed is a luxury hybrid bed with a variety of comfort features that should make it a versatile pick for most sleeping positions.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
WinkBed Mattress
WinkBed is a luxury hybrid bed with a variety of comfort features that should make it a versatile pick for most sleeping positions.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
WinkBed Mattress
WinkBed is a luxury hybrid bed with a variety of comfort features that should make it a versatile pick for most sleeping positions.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the WinkBed Earned Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
Side sleepers need lots of cushion around their hips and shoulders as they snooze. Otherwise, these sharp joints can get sore from pressure buildup.
The WinkBed is well-equipped to prevent this outcome: its pillow top features “Hypersoft” foam for an airy welcome to the bed, and it feels heavenly.
The WinkBed also comes in multiple firmnesses, so you’re able to pick the feel that precisely matches your needs.
I tested the Luxury Firm, which felt plush on top and sturdy underneath—very much like a fancy hotel mattress. Lighter side sleepers may enjoy the Soft version even more, though.
This mattress may not have the best motion-isolation skills, but I do have to praise its sturdy edge support, cooling, and bounce (I awarded it high scores in all three categories). Its coils have also been zoned into regions that provide less resistance under the shoulders, so side sleepers should be all the cozier.
Testing Studio Soundbite
“The zoned support really pops off here. There’s great weight distribution and alignment.”
Loren Bullock, Former Lead Product Tester
Layers Inside the WinkBed
Each WinkBed is approximately 13.5 inches high. You’ll choose the overall feel of the mattress when you select from four distinct firmnesses: Soft, Luxury Firm, Firm, and Plus (the last of which is meant for heavyweight sleepers).
- Tencel™ Cover – A cooling Tencel® cover that’s made with water-saving practices and fibers derived from Eucalyptus wood.
- Euro Pillow Top – Quilted with gel-infused “hypersoft” foam that should keep heat from accumulating around you.
- Additional Foam Layers – The pillow top leads into a couple more foam comfort layers, including the brand’s proprietary LumbarLayer™ that targets the lower-back region.
- Zoned Coils – The springs are individually wrapped rather than interconnected, so they can respond to your body’s specific pressure patterns. They’re also reinforced along the edges of the mattress to prevent the sides from sinking.
Customer Reviews of the WinkBed
On the WinkBeds site, the WinkBed earns a 4.8 out of 5 stars. One drawback of the WinkBed mattress is that it might be too expensive for budget-conscious shoppers, but overall it offers excellent durability and customizable firmness options.
Helix Dawn – Best Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
Helix Dawn Mattress
This hybrid mattress was specifically designed for those who love a firm but contouring mattress.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Dawn Mattress
This hybrid mattress was specifically designed for those who love a firm but contouring mattress.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Dawn Mattress
This hybrid mattress was specifically designed for those who love a firm but contouring mattress.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the Helix Dawn Earned Best Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
The Helix Dawn is perhaps the firmest mattress in Helix’s Core collection, with a topmost foam layer that prioritizes responsiveness over softness and sink. It should be a breath of fresh air for stomach sleepers who desire consistent loft and support from their bed.
Although it doesn’t have amazing pressure relief, it kept testers’ hips from sinking while they were resting on their bellies, a feat that most beds—and I’d even say most hybrids—struggle to perform.
It’s also a very bouncy mattress. We gave it a 5 out of 5 in that performance category, paired with a not-too-shabby 4 out of 5 for cooling.
Testing Studio Soundbite
“This is best for back and stomach sleepers … that top foam layer gives you superior elevation and great responsiveness.”
Julia Forbes, Lead Product Tester
Layers Inside the Helix Dawn
The Helix Dawn is 11.5 inches tall and has six layers.
- Layer 1 – Cover. A breathable and slightly stretchy cover. You can upgrade the cover to a GlacioTex™ variant for added cooling.
- Layer 2 – Helix Dynamic Foam. This material mimics the springy properties of latex foam, striking a comfortable balance between responsiveness and cushioning.
- Layers 3 & 4 – Helix Responsive Foam. Two layers of transitional foam, the lower of which is denser and firmer.
- Layer 5 – Coil Unit. Individually wrapped coils offer consistent support, with reinforced springs on the long edges.
- Layer 6 – DuraDense Foam. A sturdy base layer.
Customer Reviews of the Helix Dawn
The Helix Dawn has an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars on the Helix website. Negative reviews say that the mattress seems to get softer over time, but the majority positive reviews claim the bed is comfortable and has helped with aches and pains.
Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Cooling Mattress
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
With coils and foam layers, this Bear mattress offers zoned support without taking away from the pressure-relieving properties. The bed also has copper infusions to ensure the best cooling for hot sleepers and athletes.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Warranty
Lifetime Warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
With coils and foam layers, this Bear mattress offers zoned support without taking away from the pressure-relieving properties. The bed also has copper infusions to ensure the best cooling for hot sleepers and athletes.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime Warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
With coils and foam layers, this Bear mattress offers zoned support without taking away from the pressure-relieving properties. The bed also has copper infusions to ensure the best cooling for hot sleepers and athletes.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime Warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the Bear Elite Hybrid Earned Best Cooling Mattress
Bear is known for marketing its mattresses to active folks and athletes, so it makes sense that their top-tier model would be great at cooling you down.
Between temperature readings at 5 and 10 minutes of a tester lying on this bed, its surface temperature only went up about 4 degrees.
This result shows great breathability and active cooling, stemming from a variety of features.
The hybrid’s cover is a major selling point: it incorporates Phase Change Material (or PCM), which can help to quickly cool you down when excess heat accumulates. For an extra fee, you can add Celliant®—a textile that allegedly transfers infrared energy to the body, thereby helping its tissues to recover after a day of exercise or activity.
The mattress also fosters airflow between its coils, and the copper infused in its firm layer of foam should help with cooling as well. Its construction is great for alignment, too: we saw straight spines across the board, and loved the built-in lumbar support.
Testing Studio Soundbite
“The surface moves with you and the support is constant. The cushioning surface isn’t detracting from the ease of movement at all.”
Julia Forbes, Lead Product Tester
Layers Inside the Bear Elite Hybrid
The Bear Elite Hybrid is 14 inches high and includes five total layers. You can also specify which firmness level you’d like to order: Firm, Medium, or Soft.
- Layer 1 – Cover. A hand-quilted cover with cooling phase change material and optional Celliant® fibers.
- Layer 2 – Copper-Infused Memory Foam. This material helps with temperature regulation at the same time as it relieves pressure from taxed joints.
- Layer 3 – Dynamic Transition Foam. A transitional foam that both supports and contours to your frame.
- Layer 4 – Coils. The zoned coil unit presses back against key areas with targeted amounts of resistance. The coils in its center offer more lift to the sensitive lumbar region, and the springs around its perimeter are reinforced for edge support.
- Layer 5 – High-Density Support Foam. A dense foam base.
Customer Reviews of the Bear Elite Hybrid
According to Bear’s website, where the Bear Elite has over 3,700 reviews, the mattress scores 4.6 out of 5 stars. Some customers find the Bear Elite Hybrid mattress too firm for their liking, but it receives praise in its reviews for its advanced cooling technology and pressure relief.
Saatva Classic – Best Mattress for Back Pain
Saatva Mattress
Coil-on-coil structure gives this elevated innerspring bed a luxurious feel and versatility.
Material
Innerspring
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva Mattress
Coil-on-coil structure gives this elevated innerspring bed a luxurious feel and versatility.
Material
Innerspring
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva Mattress
Coil-on-coil structure gives this elevated innerspring bed a luxurious feel and versatility.
Material
Innerspring
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the Saatva Classic Earned Best Mattress for Back Pain
The Saatva Classic has more back-friendly features than most other beds I’ve reviewed—even the quilting in its cover is designed to help support your lumbar spine.
It’s backed up by a specially positioned strip of memory foam, two innerspring units, and a Lumbar Zone® Active Spinal Wire that bolsters the same lumbar region.
While testing the Luxury Firm version of this bed, I experienced first-hand how supportive it was.
I felt very lifted while lying on my back and stomach, especially around my midsection, which can be a problem area for lots of sleepers with back pain.
As far as convenience goes, the Classic hits it out of the park. Because you can customize this bed’s firmness and its height, pretty much every body type and sleeping position can get what they need. The white glove delivery service is just the cherry on top, and it allows people with back pain to forego lifting or moving the mattress.
Testing Studio Soundbite
“No matter what sleep position we opted for, the midsection was firmly held up. No part of the body is sinking in more than others.”
Julia Forbes, Lead Product Tester
Layers Inside the Saatva Classic
You can order your Saatva Classic in one of two heights: 11.5 or 14.5 inches. You’ll also be able to choose between Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm models.
- Euro Pillow Top. A soft, pressure-relieving surface that also looks after your lower back: its Lumbar Zone® quilting adds increased support to the pillow top’s central region.
- Lumbar Crown. A specialized layer of memory foam that occupies the middle-third of the bed, targeting the lumbar region.
- First Innerspring Unit. The top unit features individually wrapped coils to cradle the body while minimizing motion transfer.
- Spinal Wire. A wire embedded in the innersprings that encourages alignment.
- Second Innerspring Unit. The coils in the bottom unit are interconnected to reduce sagging.
- Foam Rails. Instead of reinforced coils, the edges boast dense foam rails that resist dipping and sagging.
Customer Reviews of the Saatva Classic
The Saatva Classic rates 4.8 stars out of 5 on Saatva’s website. One negative aspect customers found with the Saatva Classic mattress is that it may feel too firm for some users, while a notable advantage is its high-quality materials, providing durability and support.
Nolah Evolution – Best Hybrid Mattress
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Nolah’s innovative pressure-relieving abilities should be an excellent fit for side-sleepers, and if you struggle with overheating, the AirFoamICE™ technology should keep you cool all night long.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Nolah’s innovative pressure-relieving abilities should be an excellent fit for side-sleepers, and if you struggle with overheating, the AirFoamICE™ technology should keep you cool all night long.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Nolah’s innovative pressure-relieving abilities should be an excellent fit for side-sleepers, and if you struggle with overheating, the AirFoamICE™ technology should keep you cool all night long.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the Nolah Evolution Earned Best Hybrid Mattress
The Nolah Evolution takes hybrid design to the next level—literally. This mattress is 15 inches high, making it one of the tallest beds on this list. It reaches that height thanks to its seven layers, which combine multiple proprietary materials unique to the Nolah brand.
The mixture of supportive springs and so many comfort layers results in a mattress where more truly is better. We gave this bed perfect scores in almost every single category.
The only exceptions were pressure relief—we felt just a little pressure around our shoulders—and motion isolation, both of which received a 4 out of 5.
This bed is so popular in our office that one of our senior staff writers bought one for herself. After months of sleeping on it, she sings its praises regularly. “I was unaware of how compromised my spine was on my old bed until I started sleeping on this bed,” she told us. “Lower back issues that I had frequently in the past have disappeared.
Testing Studio Soundbite
“It has a hotel-bed feel, a plush top layer, and full-body support. This bed slaps, we’re big fans.”
Julia Forbes, Lead Product Tester
Layers Inside the Nolah Evolution
The Nolah Evolution has seven layers, including its top cover. It’s also available in three different firmness levels: Plush, Luxury Firm, or Firm.
- Layer 1 – Cover. A breathable organic cotton cover.
- Layer 2 – Pillow Top. A plush Euro pillow top made with HTC™ (high thermal conductivity) quilting, which should absorb and redirect unwanted warmth. It’s surrounded by an AirBreath™ Heat Escape Gusset that encourages the heat to vent out of the mattress rather than building up.
- Layer 3 – AirFoamICE™. According to Nolah, this exclusive material performs measurably better than memory foam in three key areas: cooling, pressure relief, and durability.
- Layer 4 – High-Resilience Foam. A more supportive foam bolsters the AirFoamICE™.
- Layer 5 – Transition Foam. A springy foam that splits the upper layers from the coils below.
- Layer 6 – Coil Unit. The springs are divided into three regions for specialized back support, and reinforced along the edges.
- Layer 7 – Base Layer. A base layer made from recycled plant fiber.
Customer Reviews of the Nolah Evolution
Earning a 4.9 out of 5 stars on Nolah’s website, the Nolah Evolution seems to be a hit. Customers appreciate the Nolah Evolution mattress for its superior pressure relief, but some have mentioned that the edge support could be improved for a more consistent sleep surface.
Plank Firm – Best Firm Mattress
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress
Those in the market for a Firm bed now have a dual-sided choice to see what they require to sleep well-supported and comfortable in Plank Firm, a new product from Brooklyn Bedding.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress
Those in the market for a Firm bed now have a dual-sided choice to see what they require to sleep well-supported and comfortable in Plank Firm, a new product from Brooklyn Bedding.
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress
Those in the market for a Firm bed now have a dual-sided choice to see what they require to sleep well-supported and comfortable in Plank Firm, a new product from Brooklyn Bedding.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the Plank Firm Earned Best Firm Mattress
Having tested the Plank personally, I recommend it for folks who don’t like a ton of cushion and who need even-keel alignment, night after night.
It should be particularly helpful for sleepers who don’t like an overly plush bed, stomach sleepers, plus-size folks, and anyone who wants to prioritize a level surface.
Its flippable design does give it some versatility: one side is extremely firm, and the other has a more traditionally firm feel.
None of the testers felt very comfortable on the ultra-firm side—it really did feel like sleeping on the floor.
The traditionally firm side, though, was another story. All three of us were well-aligned throughout our different sleeping positions, and the slight amount of cushion on this side made a big difference. Just be aware that the Plank received a 3.5 out of 5 in pressure relief for a reason!
Testing Studio Soundbite
“The extra-firm side is like laying on the floor—no cushion whatsoever. On the firm side, I’ve got a bit more cushion happening for my hips. My alignment either way is on point.”
Spencer, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
Layers Inside the Plank Firm
The Plank Firm is an all-foam mattress with four layers and a 10.25-inch height. It’s flippable, with a firm side and an extra-firm side.
- Layer 1 – Quilted Top, Extra-Firm Side (0.75 inches). A quilted surface with no cushion or loft.
- Layer 2 – High-Density Support Foam (6 inches). This core of firm foam makes up the bulk of the mattress.
- Layer 3 – TitanFlex™ Comfort Foam (2 inches). A responsive, latex-like foam that gives the less firm side a smidge of give.
- Layer 4 – Quilted Top, Firm Side (1.5 inches). A quilted surface with a small amount of loft.
Customer Reviews of the Plank Firm
On Plank’s website, the Plank Firm gets 4.8 out of 5 stars. Customers left a little over 3,000 reviews, appreciating the Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm mattress for its exceptional firmness, but some have found it to be too rigid for their comfort preferences.
Titan Plus – Best Mattress for Heavy People
Titan Plus
This specially-designed hybrid is made for heavier sleepers to help them get better, more comfortable sleep.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Titan Plus
This specially-designed hybrid is made for heavier sleepers to help them get better, more comfortable sleep.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Titan Plus
This specially-designed hybrid is made for heavier sleepers to help them get better, more comfortable sleep.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the Titan Plus Earned Best Mattress for Heavyweight Sleepers
Without sufficient support, heavier sleepers run the risk of sinking too deeply through the layers of a mattress.
This “bottoming out” sensation can be very uncomfortable, and it also puts uneven strain on the body, often resulting in poor spinal alignment.
Thankfully, Brooklyn Bedding created their Titan Plus mattress to fulfill the needs of plus-sized sleepers. This bed is a durable hybrid made with materials that provide robust, reliable support for up to 1,000 pounds of weight.
Our testers (both plus-sized and straight-sized) were united in their assessment of this bed: it’s extra supportive, with super-strong coils.
Spencer, our heavyweight tester, loved how the Titan Plus felt on his side and back. He also praised its cooling abilities, saying “it doesn’t even feel warm from my body heat when I get up and lie back down.” Our temperature testing proved his point!
Testing Studio Soundbite
“My lower back is especially is supported, and I’m not feeling any sinkage. I may be taking this bed home, it’s so comfortable.”
Spencer, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
Layers Inside the Titan Plus
The Titan Plus is 11 inches tall with four total layers.
- Layer 1 – Gel Memory Foam (1 inch). A quilted top that harbors an inch of gel memory foam. The gel keeps the foam from retaining excess heat as it molds to the sleeper’s silhouette, and the foam’s modest thickness prevents an unpleasant “stuck” feeling.
- Layer 2 – TitanFlex™ Foam (2 inches). This foam relieves pressure while maintaining a springy, responsive feel.
- Layer 3 – Coils (6 inches). These sturdy coils are key to the mattress’s ability to support up to 1,000 pounds of weight.
- Layer 4 – High-Density Foam Base (2 inches). A base layer of high-density foam gives the springs a strong, padded surface to rest upon.
Customer Reviews of the Titan Plus
Users on Titan by Brooklyn Bedding’s site have given the Titan Plus a 4.7 out of 5 stars. Customers find the Titan Plus mattress to offer exceptional durability and support, but some mention that it might be too firm for those who prefer a softer feel.
Best Mattresses of 2024 Comparison Chart
| Our Testing Metrics | Helix Midnight | Nectar | DreamCloud | WinkBed | Helix Dawn | Bear Elite Hybrid | Saatva Classic | Nolah Evolution | Plank Firm | Titan Plus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4.3 | 4.2 | 4.2 | 4 | 4.7 | 4.1 | 4.5 |
| Mattress Type | Hybrid | Memory Foam | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid |
| Mattress Height | 12″ | 12″ | 14″ | 13.5″ | 11.5″ | 14″ | 11.5″ or 14.5″ | 15″ | 10.25″ | 11″ |
| Sleep Trial | 100 Nights | 365 Nights | 365 Nights | 120 Nights | 100 Nights | 120 Nights | 365 Nights | 120 Nights | 120 Nights | 120 Nights |
| Firmness Options | Medium-Firm | Medium-Firm | Medium-Firm | Multiple | Firm | Multiple | Multiple | Multiple | Firm | Firm |
| Price (Queen) | $1,332 (before discounts) | $1,099 (before discounts) | $2,095 (before discounts) | $1,799 (before discounts) | $1,332 (before discounts) | $2,305 (before discounts) | $2,095 (before discounts) | $2,498 (before discounts) | $1,332 (before discounts) | $1,249 (before discounts) |
| Pressure Relief | 5 | 4.5 | 4 | 4 | 3.5 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 3.5 | 4 |
| Support | 5 | 4 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Motion Transfer | 5 | 5 | 4.25 | 3 | 3.5 | 3.5 | 3 | 4 | 3.5 | 5 |
| Cooling | 3 | 2.5 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4.5 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 4 |
| Bounce | 3.5 | 4 | 4 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 4 |
| Edge Support | 2 | 4 | 3 | 4.5 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Couples | 3 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 5 |
How We Picked the Best Mattresses
At the Sleep Advisor studios, my team and I put each mattress through comprehensive, hands-on testing.
We have a lightweight, average-weight, and heavyweight tester try out the bed so we can know how it feels to different body types. We also run through each sleeping position to see which ones it supports best.
We grade the mattress in multiple performance categories that we think represent the full range of a bed’s quality.
We also use scientific instruments to help us stay objective: a temperature gun for cooling tests, a pressure map for pressure-relief tests, and a seismograph app for motion isolation tests.
For this roundup, I narrowed the list down to beds with well-balanced performance ratings across the board. I made sure to only pick mattresses with a 5 out of 5 grade in support—perhaps the most important marker of mattress quality—and to include a variety of firmnesses to suit different comfort preferences.
Finally, I also looked at cost. I wanted to showcase the best beds with the fairest pricing, so we only listed beds priced between $1,000 and $2,500 for a queen—and that’s before discounts, which run extremely frequently.
How to Choose the Best Mattress for Your Needs: Key Considerations
Even though I’ve shared many of the best mattresses available today, choosing the right one for you still requires some thinking. No one knows your comfort preferences and sleeping style better than yourself—but I can tell you what to prioritize and consider as you decide on your next bed.
Advice from a Medical Expert
Because your bed can impact your sleep quality and overall health, we like to back up our recommendations with advice from medical professionals. Dr. Raj Dasgupta is a quadruple board-certified physician with a deep enthusiasm for sleep hygiene. We asked him what people should think about as they shop for a new mattress, and he said:
“When you’re picking out a mattress, think about how it supports your spine and whether it feels comfortable to you. Check for durability too, so it lasts a good while, and maybe see if it has motion isolation if you share the bed with a partner. Just keep it simple and focus most on what will help you sleep better.”
Dr. Raj Dasgupta
I think that last sentence is key. Certain mattress aspects will matter more or less to you than others, depending on your needs. A plus-sized sleeper with back pain will have different priorities than a restless side sleeper, for example.
As you read about the factors below, ask yourself which of them will impact your sleep the most.
Support
Consistent, long-lasting support is perhaps the most important marker of a quality mattress.
When I say a bed has good support, I mean that it keeps my spine relatively straight and aligned. A bed that lacks support would feel uneven and cause my body to dip into the mattress in certain places, resulting in poor spinal alignment—which is often a precursor to more severe discomfort, and even back pain.
How do we test support?
My fellow testers and I lie down on each bed in various sleeping positions and assess our spinal alignment. A bed will get a good score if we look and feel well-aligned and evenly buoyed by the mattress’s construction.
Firmness
Mattresses come in a wide variety of firmness levels, and this aspect often dictates how “comfortable” a bed feels. Note that firmness is not the exact same thing as support: a soft mattress can be perfectly supportive, and a firm mattress may lack a good support system.
To find the right firmness level for you, first ask yourself if you prefer to feel hugged or lifted by your bed. Then, consider how your primary sleeping position and your body type will come into play.
The Right Firmness for Your Sleeping Position
- Side sleepers – A soft to medium-firm mattress should suit you well. You’ll want a bed with enough plushness to cushion your hips and shoulders, but you’ll also need a solid foundation of support that keeps you from sinking too far into the mattress.
- Back sleepers – You’re an ideal match for a medium-firm mattress that gives more robust support but still has some noticeable pressure relief.
- Stomach sleepers – A firm mattress should help keep your body lifted and level. A soft mattress can cause your hips to sink too low, misaligning your spine.
- Combination sleepers – If you shift between different positions throughout the night, your mattress should be as adaptable as you are, with a middle-of-the-road firmness and enough bounce to facilitate movement.
The Right Firmness for Your Body Type
- Lightweight sleepers (less than 130 pounds) – You’ll feel more comfortable on plush beds that provide ample pressure relief. A firm bed may cause too much pressure buildup around sensitive joints.
- Average-weight sleepers (between 130 and 230 pounds) – You’ll probably sleep best on a medium-firm mattress with a slight amount of cushion.
- Heavyweight sleepers (more than 230 pounds) – You’ll want a firmer mattress that provides a good deal of support and is made out of durable materials. On a soft mattress, you may sink in too deeply and unevenly to feel supported.
How do we test firmness?
We assign beds a rating from 1 to 10 on our mattress firmness scale. The higher the number, the firmer the bed. A medium-firm mattress (between a 5 and 7 on the scale) is the most versatile, and feels comfortable to the largest chunk of the population.
Pressure Relief
Pressure relief refers to the bed’s ability to offset pressure that might otherwise build up around parts of your body.
Some areas, such as your hips and shoulders, bear more weight when you lie down on a mattress, so pressure tends to concentrate there.
Just as support and firmness aren’t the same, pressure relief and softness aren’t the same.
A soft mattress may still allow pressure to accumulate around these joints, and a firm mattress can relieve pressure surprisingly well, depending on its materials!
How do we test pressure relief?
We use a pressure map to visualize where pressure is concentrated when we lie down on a bed in different positions.
The map displays different colors that signify different amounts of pressure: blue or green for almost no pressure, yellow or orange for some pressure, and red for lots of pressure.
Pain Relief
Your mattress should never cause or exacerbate any pain, but unfortunately, this scenario can indeed happen. Here’s Dr. Dasgupta again:
“Your mattress affects how well you sleep and your overall health. A comfortable and supportive mattress can help you sleep better, reduce pain, and keep your body aligned, which is good for your physical and mental well-being. But if your mattress isn’t up to par, it can mess with your sleep, make any aches and pains worse, and even lead to health problems like obesity or mood issues.”
Dr. Raj Dasgupta
If you’re experiencing acute or chronic pain, your mattress should be a positive part of your treatment plan, not a contributor to your symptoms. The best bed for you may also depend on the type of pain you’re feeling.
Note: Always consult with your doctor as you plan any changes to your sleep space in response to pain.
Back Pain
Mattresses that can help with back pain emphasize strong, stable support, especially under the lower back or lumbar region. This kind of support encourages proper spinal alignment.
Learn more: Best Mattresses for Back Pain
Neck Pain
For neck pain, you’ll want a mattress that aligns your upper spine and the vertebrae in your neck. Even support, enough pressure relief, and the right pillow can all make a big difference.
Learn more: Best Mattresses for Neck Pain
Shoulder & Hip Pain
Pain in these areas often responds well to more cushioning, as the shoulders and hips are sharp joints where pressure can accumulate (especially if you’re a side sleeper).
Mattresses with lots of pressure-relieving layers work best, though as always, they’ll need enough support underneath.
Learn more: Best Mattresses for Shoulder Pain; Best Mattresses for Hip Pain
Responsiveness
When we say a bed is responsive, we mean that its materials bounce back into shape very quickly when you get up. A responsive foam, for example, is the opposite of a slow-moving foam that takes a while to reform.
Responsive beds are also usually quite bouncy in general. They help with rather than hinder movement, so they’re often recommended for people who shift around in their sleep and don’t want to get “stuck” within foam layers. Responsiveness also makes a mattress better suited to sexual activity.
Some people love highly responsive beds, while others find them to be too springy and wish for more sink.
How do we test responsiveness?
We jump and move around a lot on the bed! (It’s one of the most fun parts of testing, in my humble opinion.)
But that’s not all—we also bounce a lacrosse ball and a heavy medicine ball on the mattress to see how high up they go, and how quickly the surface of the mattress regains its original shape.
Motion Isolation
If a mattress isolates motion well, you won’t feel your partner moving around or getting in and out of bed on the other side. This is an important factor for couples, especially if one or both people are light sleepers.
How do we test motion isolation?
We use a seismograph app to test motion isolation. When we move around on the bed, the app creates a visualization of how much motion travels across the surface.
A graph with lots of jagged, high peaks means the mattress probably won’t cancel out movement very well. A graph that’s flatter means that lots of motion was absorbed and dampened by the mattress.
Cooling
Temperature can have a big impact on how easily you fall asleep and how well you sleep overall. Some folks sleep hot, and wake up easily if the bed or room is too warm. A cooling mattress can help regulate the temperature so that you rest easy, not sweaty.
How do we test cooling?
We use a temperature gun to take the exact temperature of the mattress’s surface. We do this three times during each test: once before anyone’s laid on the bed, once after five minutes of laying on the bed, and once after ten minutes of laying on the bed.
We expect the temperature to go up somewhat between the second and third readings, but the less it increases, the more powerful the bed’s cooling elements. If it increases by 10 degrees or less, we give it a high score in this category.
Edge Support
Edge support refers to how well the sides of the bed can stand up to added weight.
If the edges dip a lot when you sit or lie on them, you might slide right out of bed and onto the floor!
Edge support is therefore a must-have for people with mobility issues, elderly folks, and anyone who tends to scoot towards the side of the bed while they sleep.
It’s also helpful for couples, because it increases the available surface area of the mattress.
How do we test edge support?
We lie and sit on the edge of every mattress we test for a full minute. While we sit, we also tie our shoes to produce a bit of motion. If the edges don’t sag too much, the bed will receive a high score.
Mattress Type
The type of mattress you buy can influence all of the performance categories above. Each type has a slightly different construction layout and privileges certain materials.
Hybrid Mattresses
A hybrid mattress has multiple layers of comfort foam on top of a supportive spring unit.
You may have noticed that all but two beds in our lineup are hybrid mattresses. This mattress type is the new gold standard in the mattress world, because it balances support and pressure relief so well and so customizably.
- Strengths: Support, Responsiveness, Cooling, Edge Support
- Weaknesses: Motion Isolation, Affordability
Memory Foam Mattresses
Memory foam mattresses have an all-foam construction, so they tend to feel softer and contour well to the shape of your body.
- Strengths: Pressure Relief, Motion Isolation, Affordability
- Weaknesses: Responsiveness, Cooling, Durability
Latex Mattresses
A latex mattress has latex foam somewhere in its construction. Some latex beds are hybrids with spring units, whereas others are entirely made of latex foam. This foam is derived from the sap of the rubber tree and appeals to eco-friendly shoppers, but it can also be expensive.
- Strengths: Support, Pressure Relief, Responsiveness, Cooling, Natural Materials
- Weaknesses: Motion Isolation, Affordability
Innerspring Mattresses
Innerspring beds are considered largely outdated. They consist of a coil unit with only a thin comfort layer on top.
- Strengths: Support, Cooling, Affordability
- Weaknesses: Durability, Pressure Relief, Motion Isolation
Best Mattress FAQs
What is the best mattress?
We chose the Helix Midnight as the best mattress overall. It received perfect scores from our testing team for support, pressure relief, and motion isolation, making it an exceptionally well-balanced and versatile hybrid.
That said, there’s no one best mattress that will please every kind of sleeper. The best mattress for you depends on so many factors, including your body type, sleeping position, and preferred firmness level.
What’s the best type of mattress?
Hybrid mattresses are the best type of mattress for a reliable mix of support and pressure relief. They combine the best parts of foam and innerspring beds in a more durable and comfortable construction.
What’s the best mattress for back pain?
The Saatva Classic is a great choice for sleepers with back pain. It’s a medium-firm to firm hybrid bed with targeted lumbar support in both its springs and foams.
If you’d like to see even more options, you can peruse our longer list of the best mattresses for back pain.
When is the best time to buy a mattress?
Memorial Day, President’s Day, the 4th of July, Veteran’s Day, Labor Day, and Black Friday are popular times for mattress sales. If you can wait a few months until a holiday rolls around, you might find significant savings.
Many mattress brands also release new models in the early summertime, so buying just before then could present some excellent bargains as stores try to clear stock to make room for new products.
Learn more: Best Time to Buy a Mattress
Best Mattress Picks by Category
Mattress Material and Type
Age of Sleeper
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Specific Needs
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Julia Forbes
Lead Product Tester
About Author
Julia is the Lead Reviewer at Sleep Advisor, specializing in testing out mattresses and sleep accessories – she’s in the right line of work, because she loves to sleep.
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