Written by Julia Forbes, Lead Product Tester
If you’ve been mattress-shopping for a while, you’ve probably encountered multiple brands that brag about the medium-firm feel of their beds. But why is medium-firm such a desirable firmness level? And what exactly qualifies a mattress’s feel as medium-firm?
To answer the first question, a bed that’s neither too hard nor too soft has an ideal balance of comfort to support. A medium-firm mattress often represents the most harmonious mix of these elements. It’s not overly plush—so your spine stays lifted and aligned—and it’s not too rock-like, so you get a nice amount of cushion.
Furthermore, this middle-of-the-road firmness level appeals to the widest range of sleepers. It may even accommodate people who share a bed but have slightly different firmness preferences.
At Sleep Advisor, we rank a mattress’s firmness on a scale from 1 to 10, progressing from very soft to very firm. A medium-firm bed falls between 5 to 6.5 on this scale. Below, I’ve collected the best medium-firm mattresses we’ve tested and reviewed so far.
Best Medium-Firm Mattresses
- Helix Midnight – Editor’s Pick
- Nectar – Best Affordable Medium-Firm Mattress
- DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam – Best Medium-Firm Memory Foam Mattress
- WinkBeds EcoCloud – Best Medium-Firm Cooling Mattress
- Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite – Best Medium-Firm Mattress for Back Pain
- Nolah Signature – Best Medium-Firm Mattress for Side Sleepers
- Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid – Best Medium-Firm King-Size Mattress
- Bear Star Hybrid – Best Medium-Firm Hybrid Mattress
- Birch Natural – Best Medium-Firm Queen Size Mattress
Our Video Review of the Best Medium-Firm Mattresses
Compare Medium-Firm Beds
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| Helix Midnight Mattress | Nectar Mattress | DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam | WinkBeds EcoCloud Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite Mattress | Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress | Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid | Bear Star Hybrid Mattress | Birch Natural Mattress | |
| Rating | |||||||||
| Firmness | Medium-firm: 6/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Medium: 5.5/10 | Medium: 5.5/10 | Medium: 5.5/10 | Medium-firm: 6/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Medium-firm: 6/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 |
| Material | Hybrid | Foam | Foam | Latex | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid |
| Cooling | — | — | — | — | — | — | |||
| Warranty | 10-year warranty | Lifetime warranty | Forever Warranty | Lifetime warranty | 10-year warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | 25-year warranty |
| Shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping minus HI and AK | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free white glove delivery | Free shipping | Free shipping |
| Trial Period | 100 nights | 365 nights | 365 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 365 Nights | 120 nights | 100 nights |
| Best For | Couples, Back Sleepers, Side Sleepers | Back Sleepers, Back Pain, Stomach Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Couples | Couples, Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers | Back Sleepers, Side Sleepers | Side Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Couples | Side Sleepers, Back Pain | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers | Joint Pain, Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Seniors |
How We Chose the Best Medium-Firm Mattresses
We test mattresses in person at our studio, scoring them across a variety of performance categories.
As one of the site’s lead product testers, I’ve lied on top of (and rolled around on, and napped on, and jumped on…) more mattresses than I can count. But because a person’s body type and preferred sleeping position can affect their experience of a bed, I don’t test these beds alone—I’m joined by other reviewers who offer a variety of perspectives.
When picking out the best medium-firm mattresses, we focused on beds that sat in the middle of our firmness scale and chose our favorites based on a few key properties.
What We Want to See in a Medium-Firm Bed
When you’re shopping for a medium-firm mattress, keep the following features at the top of your mind:
Firmness Level Between 5 and 6.5
If 1 is softer than a cotton ball, and 10 is harder than a slab of stone, you want a mattress that’s between a 5 and a 6.5. This may seem to skew firm rather than plush, but keep in mind that we rarely recommend mattresses that feel softer than a 4 or so—these beds are too soft, and will cause you to sink so low that your skeleton isn’t properly supported.
Broad Appeal
A quality medium-firm mattress should feel good to a wide range of people, even those with different comfort preferences. We often suggest medium-firm beds to couples who are struggling to align their visions for an ideal sleep space. A healthy mattress firmness is like a healthy marriage: it’s all about adaptability and compromise.
Consistent, Durable Comfort
A medium-firm mattress hardly qualifies as medium-firm if it starts to sag soon after you buy it. You’ll want a bed that retains its initial firmness over years of use, so look for durable materials, positive customer reviews, and policies that ensure a long-lived product. Lengthy sleep trials and warranties are both good signs.
The Best Medium-Firm Mattresses
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
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Midnight Mattress
Part of Helix’s core line of mattresses, the Midnight has a hybrid construction that’s particularly suited to back and side sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Midnight Mattress
Part of Helix’s core line of mattresses, the Midnight has a hybrid construction that’s particularly suited to back and side sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
| Metrics | Helix Midnight Mattress | Average |
| Overall Score | 4 | 4.1 |
| Mattress Height | 12″ | 11″ |
| Mattress Type | Hybrid | – |
| Number of Layers | 4 Layers | – |
| Firmness | Medium-Firm | – |
| Sleep Trial | 100 Nights | 141 Nights |
| Shipping | Shipping is free within the United States. | – |
| Certifications | CertiPUR-US® | – |
| Price (Queen) | $1,332 (before discounts) | $1,695 |
Why the Helix Midnight Earned Best Medium-Firm Mattress Overall
The Helix Midnight is a medium-firm mattress designed with side sleepers in mind, so you may be surprised to see it at the top of our list. However, I’ve found that the Helix Midnight works for a swath of different sleepers, no thanks to that trusty medium-firmness.
How does that work? Well, the foam layers on top contour to the body, relieving pressure around sensitive areas. Plus, the individually wrapped coils provide support and bounce, so you can still feel comfortable in all sleep positions and switch between them with ease.
Nectar Mattress – Best Affordable Medium-Firm Mattress
Nectar Mattress
Nectar provides a premium memory foam bed backed up by a year-long trial and a Forever warranty.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nectar Mattress
Nectar provides a premium memory foam bed backed up by a year-long trial and a Forever warranty.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nectar Mattress
Nectar provides a premium memory foam bed backed up by a year-long trial and a Forever warranty.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
| Metrics | Nectar Mattress | Average |
| Overall Score | 4 | 4.1 |
| Mattress Height | 12″ | 11″ |
| Mattress Type | Memory Foam | – |
| Number of Layers | 3 Layers | – |
| Firmness | Medium-Firm | – |
| Sleep Trial | 365 Nights | 141 Nights |
| Shipping | Shipping is free within the United States. | – |
| Certifications | CertiPUR-US® | – |
| Price (Queen) | $1,099 (before discounts) | $1,695 |
Why the Nectar Mattress Earned Best Affordable Medium-Firm Mattress
If you’re looking for a high-quality memory foam mattress that won’t break the bank, Nectar is a tempting option at just over $1,000 for their flagship queen mattress. Its industry-leading year-long sleep trial and lifetime warranty only sweeten the deal.
As a memory foam bed, you can also expect plenty of comfort on the Nectar as well. In fact, I gave it a 4 out of 5 rating for both pressure relief and support. This complements the medium-firm feel that should be able to accommodate most sleepers.
DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam – Best Medium-Firm Memory Foam Mattress
DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam
The DreamCloud Premier Memory foam mattress offers luxury pressure point relief at an affordable price.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Firmness
Medium: 5.5/10
Warranty
Forever Warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam
The DreamCloud Premier Memory foam mattress offers luxury pressure point relief at an affordable price.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Forever Warranty
Firmness
Medium: 5.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam
The DreamCloud Premier Memory foam mattress offers luxury pressure point relief at an affordable price.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium: 5.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Forever Warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
| Metrics | DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam | Average |
| Overall | 4.1 | 4.1 |
| Mattress Height | 13″ | 11″ |
| Mattress Type | Memory Foam | – |
| Number of Layers | 7 | – |
| Firmness | Medium | – |
| Sleep Trial | 365 Nights | 141 Nights |
| Sleep Trial | Free Shipping within the continental United States | – |
| Certifications | CertiPUR-US® | – |
| Price (Queen) | $2,095 (before discounts) | $1,695 |
Why the DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam Earned Best Medium-Firm Memory Foam Mattress
Some folks love the sumptuous sink that memory foam offers—and good news, there are plenty of medium-firm all-foam beds. The DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam stands out, though. This all-foam edition of DreamCloud’s higher-end line is on the plusher side, though still medium firm, to address a variety of sleepers’ needs.
If you want pressure relief, this bed has it. If you want to feel “hugged” by your mattress, this bed has it. It’s an all-around great choice for memory foam fans.
WinkBeds EcoCloud – Best Medium-Firm Cooling Mattress
WinkBeds EcoCloud Mattress
The EcoCloud by Winkbed provides a premium experience With some of the most natural materials in the bedding industry!
Material
Latex
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium: 5.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
WinkBeds EcoCloud Mattress
The EcoCloud by Winkbed provides a premium experience With some of the most natural materials in the bedding industry!
Material
Latex
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium: 5.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
WinkBeds EcoCloud Mattress
The EcoCloud by Winkbed provides a premium experience With some of the most natural materials in the bedding industry!
Material
Latex
Firmness
Medium: 5.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
| Metrics | WinkBed EcoCloud Mattress | Average |
| Overall Score | 4 | 4.1 |
| Mattress Height | 13.5″ | 11″ |
| Mattress Type | Latex Hybrid | – |
| Number of Layers | 4 Layers | – |
| Firmness | Medium | – |
| Sleep Trial | 120 Nights | 141 Nights |
| Shipping | Shipping is free within the contiguous United States. | – |
| Certifications | OEKO-TEX® Standard 100, Global Organic Textile Standard, Rainforest Alliance Certified | – |
| Price (Queen) | $1,999 (before discounts) | $1,695 |
Why the WinkBeds EcoCloud Earned Best Medium-Firm Cooling Mattress
The WinkBeds EcoCloud is a medium-firm hybrid bed that provides targeted support and weight distribution across multiple zones. If you’re a hot sleeper, though, you’ll probably be most interested in its cooling capabilities.
This mattress is naturally ventilated, thanks to its construction and materials. The top layers have heat-wicking properties, which help pull heat away from your body and keep the bed’s surface cool to the touch. The bed also features Talalay latex and pocketed coils, both of which promote cooling and airflow.
Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite – Best Medium-Firm Mattress for Back Pain
Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite Mattress
This hand-crafted hybrid model should deliver a premium sleeping experience.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium: 5.5/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite Mattress
This hand-crafted hybrid model should deliver a premium sleeping experience.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium: 5.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite Mattress
This hand-crafted hybrid model should deliver a premium sleeping experience.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium: 5.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
| Metrics | Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite | Average |
| Overall Score | 4 | 4.1 |
| Mattress Height | 14″ | 11″ |
| Mattress Type | Hybrid | – |
| Number of Layers | 4 Layers | – |
| Firmness | Medium-Firm | – |
| Sleep Trial | 120 Nights | 141 Nights |
| Shipping | Shipping is free within the contiguous United States. | – |
| Certifications | CertiPUR-US® | – |
| Price (Queen) | $2.399 (before discounts) | $1,695 |
Why the Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite Earned Best Medium-Firm Mattress for Back Pain
The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe is a hybrid mattress available in three firmness levels. The Medium model is the golden middle ground between a soft and firm feel, and a good match for sleepers suffering from back pain—they benefit most from a balance of pressure relief on top, strong support on the bottom.
You should remain properly aligned on this bed while feeling relief in areas prone to pressure buildup. Repositioning should feel easy too, thanks to its springy surface. All in all, this medium-firm bed is primed to help with back pain across a variety of sleeping positions.
Nolah Signature – Best Medium-Firm Mattress for Side Sleepers
Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress
Shoppers interested in a hybrid feel should find this Signature bed a perfect choice for their needs.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress
Shoppers interested in a hybrid feel should find this Signature bed a perfect choice for their needs.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress
Shoppers interested in a hybrid feel should find this Signature bed a perfect choice for their needs.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
| Metrics | Nolah Signature Mattress | Average |
| Overall Score | 4 | 4.1 |
| Mattress Height | 12″ | 11″ |
| Mattress Type | Memory Foam | – |
| Number of Layers | 4 Layers | – |
| Firmness | Medium-Firm | – |
| Sleep Trial | 120 Nights | 141 Nights |
| Shipping | Shipping is free within the United States. | – |
| Certifications | CertiPUR-US® and GREENGUARD Gold | – |
| Price (Queen) | $1,799 (before discounts) | $1,695 |
Why the Nolah Signature Earned Best Medium-Firm Mattress for Side Sleepers
While pressure build-up can occur during sleep for many reasons, resting on an uncomfortable mattress is a common one. Thankfully, the Nolah Signature is made to tackle pressure build-up with multiple layers of specialized foams.
A mix of breathable AirFoam™, responsive foam, and dense support foam makes for a soft but supportive medium-firm profile that should suit side sleepers and those with sensitive joints.
Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid – Best Medium-King Firm Mattress
Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid
This mattress from Saatva combines the pressure relief of memory foam and the support of springs for a cooling and restful night’s sleep.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
365 Nights
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid
This mattress from Saatva combines the pressure relief of memory foam and the support of springs for a cooling and restful night’s sleep.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
365 Nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid
This mattress from Saatva combines the pressure relief of memory foam and the support of springs for a cooling and restful night’s sleep.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
365 Nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Price Range
$$$$$
| Metrics | Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid | Average |
| Overall Score | 4.2 | 4.1 |
| Mattress Height | 11.5″ | 11″ |
| Mattress Type | Hybrid | – |
| Number of Layers | 6 Layers | – |
| Firmness | Medium-Firm | – |
| Sleep Trial | 365 Nights | 141 Nights |
| Shipping | Free shipping within the continental United States. | – |
| Certifications | CertiPUR-US® and GOTS-certified | – |
| Price (Queen) | $1,845 (before discounts) | $1,695 |
Why the Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid Earned Best Medium-Firm King Mattress
If you’re looking for a medium-firm mattress to complement your large bedroom or live up to your royal taste, I’d recommend buying a king-size Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid. This mattress features plush foams and sturdy coils, the perfect match for the balanced comfort and support.
The springy, lifted surface is best suited to back sleepers, but some side sleepers should appreciate the pressure relief this bed can offer.
The Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid also boasts an endorsement from the American Chiropractic Association and a seal of approval from the Congress of Chiropractic State Association, so it’s safe to say that this bed has got your back.
Bear Star Hybrid – Best Medium-Firm Hybrid Mattress
Bear Star Hybrid Mattress
The Bear Hybrid is an appealing product because it should cater to a wide variety of sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Bear Star Hybrid Mattress
The Bear Hybrid is an appealing product because it should cater to a wide variety of sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Bear Star Hybrid Mattress
The Bear Hybrid is an appealing product because it should cater to a wide variety of sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
| Metrics | Bear Star Hybrid | Average |
| Overall Score | 3.8 | 4.1 |
| Mattress Height | 13″ | 11″ |
| Mattress Type | Hybrid | – |
| Number of Layers | 4 Layers | – |
| Firmness | Medium-Firm | – |
| Sleep Trial | 120 Nights | 141 Nights |
| Shipping | Ships free across the continental United States. | – |
| Certifications | GREENGUARD Gold and CertiPUR-US® | – |
| Price (Queen) | $1,998 (before discounts) | $1,695 |
Why the Bear Star Hybrid Earned Best Medium-Firm Hybrid Mattress
Most medium-firm mattresses are hybrids because the combination of coils and foam tends to yield a medium feel. So, how do you choose a hybrid bed that stands out? Well, let me introduce you to the Bear Star Hybrid.
This bed is meant to match with athletes or active sleepers looking to wind down after a day of intense activity. Thus, it has plenty of added cooling features like its HydroCool Cover and gel foam. (For an added fee, you can get a specialized Celliant® cover, a recovery textile that reportedly converts excess heat into healing infrared energy.) Combine this with a supportive innerspring unit and stellar edge support, and it’s easy to see why this hybrid goes the extra mile.
Birch Natural – Best Queen Medium-Firm Mattress
Birch Natural Mattress
An eco-friendly bed that pairs latex and individually wrapped coils for a versatile hybrid sleep experience.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
25-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Birch Natural Mattress
An eco-friendly bed that pairs latex and individually wrapped coils for a versatile hybrid sleep experience.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
25-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Birch Natural Mattress
An eco-friendly bed that pairs latex and individually wrapped coils for a versatile hybrid sleep experience.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
25-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
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.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
| Metrics | Birch Natural Mattress | Average |
| Overall Score | 4.4 | 4.1 |
| Mattress Height | 11″ | 11″ |
| Mattress Type | Hybrid | – |
| Number of Layers | 5 Layers | – |
| Firmness | Medium-Firm | – |
| Sleep Trial | 100 Nights | 141 Nights |
| Shipping | Shipping is free within the United States. | – |
| Certifications | eco-INSTITUT Certified, GREENGUARD Gold, and Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) | – |
| Price (Queen) | $1,873.80 (before discounts) | $1,695 |
Why the Birch Natural Earned Best Queen Medium-Firm Mattress
The Birch Natural should delight eco-conscious shoppers looking for a queen-size medium-firm mattress, thanks to its impressive list of materials, which features organic wool, organic cotton, and natural latex.
The bed’s middle-ground feel should deliver an optimal balance of comfort and support. While the latex helps to alleviate pressure, the individually wrapped coils deliver targeted support to different areas of the body for a healthy spinal alignment.
Compare Medium-Firm Mattress Specs
| Mattress | Support Score | Pressure Relief Score | Sleep Trial Length | Warranty |
| Helix Midnight | 5/5 | 5/5 | 100 Nights | 10 years |
| Nectar | 4/5 | 4.5/5 | 365 Nights | Lifetime |
| DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 | 365 Nights | Lifetime |
| Wink Beds EcoCloud | 4/5 | 5/5 | 120 Nights | Lifetime |
| Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite | N/A | N/A | 120 Nights | 10 years |
| Nolah Signature | 5/5 | 5/5 | 120 Nights | Lifetime |
| Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid | 5/5 | 4/5 | 365 Nights | Lifetime |
| Bear Star Hybrid | 5/5 | 4/5 | 120 Nights | Lifetime |
| Birch Natural | 5/5 | 4/5 | 100 Nights | 25 years |
What Is a Medium-Firm Mattress?
| Firmness Level | Range (Number) |
| Soft | 3-4.5 |
| Medium (or Medium-Firm) | 5-6.5 |
| Firm | 7 and above |
A medium-firm mattress is considered a bed that’s rated between a 5 and 6.5 on a firmness scale. (At Sleep Advisor, we consider a 7 out of 10 to mark the beginning of true “firm” beds.) As such, these beds can provide both softness and support and are suitable for the majority of sleepers.
While the firmness of these beds is similar, the construction among them varies. Medium-firm beds can include hybrids, innerspring mattresses, memory foam beds, and latex models.
Medium-firm mattresses are the most common mattress option, but they’re not for everyone. For this reason, it’s always best to consider your body type and preferred sleep position to determine whether a medium feel is right for you.
Pros of Medium-Firm Mattresses
There are many reasons to choose a medium-firm mattress if you’re trying to weigh your options:
- Fit a wide range of sleepers.
- Good compromise option for couples with different sleeping preferences.
- A very common mattress type with plenty of options.
- Can provide either cradling or lift depending on mattress construction.
Cons of Medium-Firm Mattresses
However, it’s important to consider your needs, since medium-firm beds might not work for certain sleeper types:
- Can be too soft for some sleepers—like heavyweight or stomach sleepers.
- Can be too firm for some sleepers—like lightweight or side sleepers..
What to Look For When Buying a Medium-Firm Mattress
Although people often focus on the firmness of a mattress as its most important feature, other factors will contribute a lot to its overall comfort and quality.
Materials
A memory foam bed won’t feel the same as an innerspring bed, even if they’re both medium-firm. In addition, materials can impact how warm or cool the bed’s surface is.
Therefore, you should carefully inspect the construction of each bed you’re considering, especially if you’re looking for an eco-friendly or hypoallergenic bed.
Durability
In conjunction with materials and firmness, how long a mattress lasts should factor into your decision. At Sleep Advisor, we pride ourselves on recommending the best of the best, so this means every mattress should be of a high-quality. However, if you’re on the search yourself, be on the lookout for features that mean longevity. These might be a high-coil count in hybrid mattresses, a strong, thick support core in memory foam beds, or strong edge support all around the edges.
For more, check out our list of the best mattresses that won’t sag.
Warranty
All reputable brands will include a warranty with their product. However, warranties vary, so you’ll come across different deals. Some companies offer a 1-year long warranty, while others go as far as providing a lifetime warranty.
Although most companies cover the same things, the length of a warranty can make a difference. The longest-lasting deals often indicate how confident a brand is in its product. You’ll want a medium-firm mattress that remains medium-firm for the majority of the time you own it, so a reassuring warranty is a green flag.
Price
Medium-firm mattresses are available at different prices, but the firmness of a bed rarely affects its overall cost. Instead, the price usually depends on the size, materials, unique features, height, and brand.
Although you should have a pre-set budget, try not to let the price be the only deciding factor when buying a medium-firm mattress.
Sleep Trial
Sometimes it’s hard to decide if a mattress is a good fit for you without trying it out for several nights. A sleep trial allows you to use the mattress without too big of a commitment. If you decide you don’t like it, the company will take it back before the sleep trial ends and will refund your money.
These trials can last anywhere between 30 and 365 nights. The longer the trial, the more time you have to decide whether that medium-firm mattress is an ideal match for your sleep habits.
Pressure Relief
Pressure build-up is a common issue for most sleepers, although folks who sleep on their side usually struggle the most. The best way to achieve relief is to choose a bed with contouring and cushioning layers that allow a gentle hug. This way, sensitive points like the shoulders, hips, and knees are more “in” the bed than “on” it.
Memory foam and latex beds are excellent at pressure relief, but so are hybrids with thick foam and latex comfort layers.
Explore our best mattresses for pressure relief.
Motion Isolation
Motion isolation refers to how well the bed prevents motion from transferring across its surface. This feature is helpful for anyone who shares a bed with a partner, kids, or pets.
Memory foam and hybrid mattresses are usually better at motion isolation than latex and innerspring beds. Memory foam is excellent at absorbing motion, while the use of pocketed coils and comfort foams in hybrids helps reduce motion transfer.
Edge Support
Edge support is important for couples and single individuals who like to spread across their mattresses. Without edge support, you’ll feel like you’re rolling off the mattress if you sit or sleep near the edge.
Hybrid mattresses tend to have the best edge support, thanks to the coils that often go from one side of the bed to the other. Some even have a reinforced perimeter with thicker coils that prevent the edges from collapsing.
Cooling
If you or your partner sleep hot, then cooling features are going to be important. Memory foam beds are known to overheat, but manufacturers now use gel and copper infusions to cool the material and make these more suitable for hot sleepers.
Latex is even more cooling, as it’s naturally more breathable. Hybrids and innerspring models are perhaps best for hot sleepers because the coil units provide sufficient airflow to keep the other layers cool. Many cooling beds also have unique covers that remain cool to the touch.
Types of Medium-Firm Mattresses
There are several types of medium-firm mattresses for you to choose from, each with their unique set of pros and cons.
Hybrid Mattresses
Hybrid mattresses are highly popular among people looking for support, bounce, and breathability. These offer a blend of contouring foam and steel coils. The foam typically comprises the top comfort layers, whereas the coils are towards the bottom.
Medium-firm hybrid mattresses have a sturdy coil unit and multiple foam layers working together to foster both pressure relief and support. Hybrids are also breezy and less likely to overheat, thanks to the coil unit that fosters airflow.
Memory Foam Mattresses
Foam mattresses have a few layers made from memory foam or poly-foam, though some models may include both. These beds have a high-density foam core that supports the upper layers and ensures durability.
The top layers are typically softer to contour to the body for pressure relief. Medium-firm memory foam mattresses can be better at pressure relief than certain hybrids and innerspring models, but they may be too hot unless they feature cooling technologies and materials. Heavy people may also want a bed with more pushback from the support layer.
Latex Mattresses
Latex mattresses are a good choice for eco-conscious shoppers. Latex is a responsive material harvested from the sap of rubber trees. This unique material is known for its moderate contouring properties, so a medium-firm latex bed would be good for back and stomach sleepers.
In addition, these beds should provide much-needed support for the hips, preventing them from sinking into the mattress. Latex beds are quite durable, so while they may cost more up front, they should last you longer than other types.
Innerspring Mattresses
Innerspring beds are similar to hybrids in that they have spring coils. However, innerspring models don’t have thicker comfort layers at the top like hybrids do. Instead, they have a thinner foam layer on top of the coil unit.
In some innerspring beds, the coils are individually wrapped, while others have interconnected coil systems. This type of mattress may have poor motion isolation and less cushion, but they’re airy and suitable for hot sleepers. They’re also a great budget-friendly option compared to hybrid or latex models.
Who Should Sleep on a Medium-Firm Mattress?
Medium-firm mattresses are versatile and should suit most sleepers. However, certain people may need a softer or firmer bed depending on their body type, preferred sleeping position, or medical conditions. Below are some of the demographics that stand to benefit the most from a medium-firm bed.
Back Sleepers
Medium-firm mattresses make excellent beds for back sleepers as they provide sufficient support to keep the spine aligned. Back sleepers weighing between 130 and 230 pounds should find these beds particularly comfortable.
Sleepers With Back Pain
Those who struggle with back pain should focus on finding a bed that supports the spine, ensuring it’s always in proper alignment. A medium-firm mattress can be a good bed for back pain by keeping the hips from collapsing into the bed (as this could throw the spine out of alignment).
It should also provide the right amount of upper softness to balance out its support features, giving sore backs some pressure relief.
Some Stomach Sleepers
As a stomach sleeper myself, I test every mattress in this sleeping position to get an understanding of how supportive it is for folks like me. The best beds for stomach sleepers need to be supportive enough to keep our hips elevated. Softer mattresses allow the hips to sink too much, which causes the lower back to hyperextend, eventually leading to back pain.
A medium-firm bed is a golden middle between too firm and soft, supporting the hips while cushioning the rest of your body. (However, some heavier stomach sleepers may feel better supported with firm beds, since their weight will cause more compression into the layers.)
Some Plus-Size Sleepers
The best mattresses for heavier folks are usually on the firmer side, due to the support they provide. Medium-firm beds can typically support sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds.
One thing to keep in mind is that a heavier sleeper may find such mattresses softer than sleepers who weigh less than 130 pounds. Heavier side sleepers may like a medium-firm mattress, but back and stomach sleepers weighing over 230 pounds should opt for a firmer one.
Medium-Firm Mattress FAQs
How do I know if a medium-firm mattress is right for me?
You should first consider your sleep position and body type. Medium-firm beds are typically best for back sleepers, although some side and stomach sleepers may also like them depending on their body weight. Luckily, most brands offer a sleep trial for customers to see if the mattress is right for them.
Is a medium-firm mattress good for your back?
A medium-firm mattress should be good for your back, especially if back sleeping is your preferred position. These beds provide sufficient support and gentle contouring to fill the gap between your lower back and the mattress. Some models are even specifically made for reducing back pain.
What is the difference between firm and medium firm mattresses?
A medium-firm bed will have a noticeable balance of softness and support, and occupies the zone between a 5 and 7 on our firmness scale.
Firm beds are noticeably more rigid and have firmness ratings above a 7 on our firmness scale. They often have minimal contouring but excellent support, particularly for heavier bodies.
Is a medium-firm mattress good for side sleepers?
Whether a medium-firm mattress is good for side sleepers depends on the person. Some side sleepers love soft beds that let them sink into the first layer. Others prefer to sleep “on” the bed instead of “in” it, but still like a bit of contouring to prevent pressure build-up.
Lightweight and heavier side sleepers won’t get the same feel from the same firmness level. This means your body weight is crucial in deciding if a medium-firm mattress is good for side sleeping.
For more information, check our guide on best mattresses for side sleepers.
Compare Prices and Scores of the The Best Medium-Firm Mattresses
| Mattress | Price (Queen Size) | Pressure Relief | Support | Motion Isolation | Cooling | Bounce | Edge Support | Couples |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Helix Midnight | $1,199 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 3 | 3.5 | 2 | 3 |
| Nectar | $1,099 | 4.5 | 4 | 5 | 2.5 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam | $2,333 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 2 | 2 | 5 | 4 |
| Wink Beds EcoCloud | $1,999 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 3.5 | 5 | 3 | 3 |
| Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite | $2,399 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 4 |
| Nolah Signature | $1,599 | 5 | 5 | 3.5 | 3 | 2.5 | 4.5 | 3 |
| Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid | $1,795 | 4 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 5 |
| Bear Star Hybrid | $1,998 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 4 |
| Birch Natural | $1,873 | 4 | 5 | 3.5 | 4.5 | 5 | 4 | 4 |
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.
Stomach Sleeper