Choosing the right mattress for your sleep needs and body type can make a big difference to how well you sleep at night. I should know: I'm a certified sleep coach, and I've been managing Tom's Guide's mattress testing team for over five years.
Our mattress rankings are based on rigorous in-house testing and extensive user-review analysis. We have an expert understanding of what makes a good mattress versus marketing hype, and let’s bust a myth straight away: a good bed doesn't need to cost a fortune. One of the most comfortable mattresses in this guide starts at $189.
So what's the best mattress you can buy in 2025? It’s still the Saatva Classic, a luxury innerspring hybrid with top-class pressure relief. I slept on it for seven months and felt like I was getting a full-body massage every night. It aced our tests for a second time when we re-reviewed it in November.
It’s a tighter race than in previous years, though. The newly updated Helix Midnight Luxe performed almost as well in our tests, but costs slightly more and doesn't offer Saatva's choice of firmness levels. We also like the new Brooklyn Bedding Copperflex Pro pillow top cooling mattress that punches well above its lower-mid-range price.
Mattress prices are likely to rise from this summer when the tariff pause is lifted, but there are currently plenty of good beds to pick from at good prices - particularly while the Memorial Day mattress sales are running. Here are our top-rated mattresses to buy in 2025...
At a glance: Our top 5 picks for 2025
Why you can trust Tom's Guide Our writers and editors spend hours analyzing and reviewing products, services, and apps to help find what's best for you. Find out more about how we test, analyze, and rate.
We made significant updates to this guide in May 2025. We replaced the Nectar Classic with the Nectar Premier as our best memory foam pick. We replaced the Helix Dusk Luxe with the Helix Dawn as our top choice for stomach sleepers, and added a new budget cooling bed, Brooklyn Bedding's Copperflex Pro.
How we test mattresses
At Tom's Guide we conduct rigorous mattress testing in order to find the best options to recommend in 2025. As we explain in our mattress methodology we have six critical tests that we perform on every mattress we review. These tests comfort and support, pressure relief, motion isolation, temperature regulation, and edge support. Most of our tests are objective, data-driven tests, and some, like comfort, are subjective.
We sleep on every mattress we test for at least three weeks, and also run long-term tests (our most recent long-running test was on the Saatva Classic – I slept on it for seven months and kept daily review notes about how it affected my sleep, and my physical comfort in bed, as well as recapturing all our Sleep Lab data).
Our testers will score each mattress out of 5 for every one of our critical tests, and then use those to generate an overall test score.
Here's a breakdown of our mattress review scores:
- ★★★★★ – The best comfort and support
- ★★★★ – Solid performer; well worth it
- ★★★ – Good, but better options available
- ★★ – Lacks longterm comfort and durability
- ★ – Failed all tests; not recommended
Our mattress editors work with our reviewers to ensure every inch of the mattress is tested according to our strict protocols. It can take several weeks to publish a verified mattress review because ours go through so many checks and balances. Where possible we photograph and video each mattress in our Sleep Lab so you can also see how the mattresses perform during our various weight drop tests, and sit and lie tests.
In our Sleep Lab we have a minimum of two testers working on a mattress, and will also assemble a wider testing panel made up of people with different body weights, heights, and sleep needs. We do this to capture a wide range of opinions and then we consider those alongside our lab data.
As part of our review process we also analyze customer reviews with the aim of identifying any trends around durability and longterm support and comfort. We pay attention to the quality of service customers receive from brands, and look for other indicators of trustworthiness and reliability. All of the top-rated mattress brands in our guide have excellent customer service.
1. The best mattress of 2025 overall
Why we rate it: After re-testing it from cover to base we’ve crowned the Saatva Classic the best mattress you can buy for the fourth year in a row. Why? Because this luxury innerspring hybrid is the near-whole package, whereas other mattresses in this guide aren’t as well-rounded for the majority of sleepers like the Saatava is. I slept on a Luxury Firm Saatva Classic for seven months and found it hugely comfortable every night. No mattress is perfect for everybody, but I think the Saatva Classic comes very close.
Jennifer Nelson, who conducted our first ever Saatva Classic review, describes the Classic as: "Magic for achy backs – and just about everything else and everyone else." The Saatva Classic beat every other mattress in every test we ran, and at $1,699 (was $2,099) for a queen in the Saatva mattress sale we think its good value for a five-layer handcrafted luxury hotel style bed that comes with a year’s trial, lifetime mattress warranty, and free White Glove Delivery.
How it performed during testing: The Saatva Classic comes in three feels and two heights, and I tested a 11.5" Luxury Firm version that I rate highly for pressure relief and lumbar support. I can feel my back get straightened out when I lie on it, and after a day hunched over playing on the floor with my toddler I need all the lumbar support and pressure relief I can get.
Support and comfort: ★★★★★
Pressure relief: ★★★★★
Temperature regulation: ★★★★★
Motion isolation: ★★★★★
Edge support: ★★★★★
Build quality: ★★★★★
The Saatva Classic is the only mattress we've tested to earn a full 5 out of 5 score, acing every one of our tests. We awarded the Saatva the maximum score for each test, and feel it particularly excels at pressure relief, edge support, and temperature regulation. There are no hot spots on this mattress and zero pressure points. We assembled a large testing panel of nine people for our recent re-testing too, and eight out of them rated the Saatva Classic as a 5 out of 5 for comfort and support. The ninth rated it a 4 out of 5 because she preferred plusher, squishier mattresses.
What we like about it
✅ Excellent lumbar support: The lumbar crown, made from CertiPUR-US high density foam, works in tandem with Saatva’s Lumbar Zone Active Wire system to dish out superb support and pressure relief, and to keep your spine aligned. I feel my back get straightened out when I lie on it.
✅ Superb pressure relief: This five-layer, Euro pillow top luxury hybrid is made with an innerspring base coil unit that sits under individually wrapped coils that contour your body and ease pressure points.
✅ Breathable and toxin-free: The fiberglass free Saatva Classic has a naturally cooling organic cotton cover that wicks away heat and sweat. Temperature regulation is excellent with zero hot spots on the bed.
What we don’t like about it
❌ 600lbs weight capacity: Bed sharing couples who weigh 300lbs+ each need to look elsewhere. Good alternatives are recommend the DreamCloud (#2) a good mattress for heavy people that can support up to 1,000lbs of weight.
❌ $99 returns or exchanges fee: Saatva is one of only a few American sleep brands that charges a fee if you want to exchange or return your mattress.
Saatva Classic Mattress: Our verdict
If you want a hotel style luxury mattress that’s breathable, supportive, and instantly comfy in all sleep positions, then we think the Saatva Classic is the best mattress for most people. Now is a great time to buy too as you can save $400 on every size in the Saatva Memorial Day sale with a queen down to $1,699 (was $2,099), which is only $4 more than the cheapest price its sold for in 18 months. Saatva has been alluding to price increases in the wake of tariffs, so if you want the Classic we recommend buying it soon. Read our Saatva Classic mattress review for more.
2. The best value mattress
Why we rate it: Out of the 90+ mattresses we’ve tested, we rate the DreamCloud as the best bed for the money at $649 for a queen. It outperformed every other affordable mattress we’ve reviewed, earning comfort and support test scores on a par with luxury beds almost three times the price. The pressure relief when back and stomach sleeping is impressive for a mid-range boxed mattress, though side sleeping was hit and miss at the start as the DreamCloud felt too firm.
The 12” five-layer DreamCloud delivers bags of spine-aligning support, and while it took us a while to break in, afterwards it felt undeniably comfortable. Right now it’s our top pick for price versus performance and the best mattress in a box overall, but the new Brooklyn Bedding Copperflex Pro (#8) impressed us during testing. As it only costs $51 more than the DreamCloud in the Memorial Day sales ($765 for a queen), we’ll be scrutinising test data for both beds once we’ve reviewed the new DreamCloud (the Luxury Hybrid has just been replaced with the DreamCloud Classic).
How it performed during testing: Tom’s Guide mattress reviewer Alison Barretta recently retested the DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid, declaring it a good mattress for back sleeping: “All of our testers noticed how well it distributed their weight when resting in this position.” It’s a comfy mattress for stomach sleepers too, I did feel tension in my hips and thighs when side sleeping during the first few nights on my DreamCloud.
Support and comfort: ★★★★
Pressure relief: ★★★★½
Temperature regulation: ★★★★½
Motion isolation: ★★★★½
Edge support: ★★★★
Build quality: ★★★★
So who didn’t like it? The lightweight side sleepers on our testing panel found it too firm, while the heavier stomach sleepers found it too soft. I also noticed some heat retention. Not enough to be a dealbreaker for most, unless you sleep very hot. If you do sleep hot, consider the Brooklyn Bedding Copperflex Pro or the Cocoon by Sealy Chill [see our Also Tested section] instead.
What we like about it
✅ Body hug feel: Unusually for a hybrid mattress, the DreamCloud offers a good amount of contouring. The body hug feel is more noticeable here than on any other hybrid we’ve tested.
✅ Low motion transfer: Affordable and cheap mattresses don’t always isolate motion well, but the DreamCloud does. I hardly felt my toddler bouncing on the bed next to me.
✅ Good lying edge support: While the sitting edge support is mediocre (a lot of sink for average to heavier bodies), we felt fully supported when lying on the edge.
What we don’t like about it
❌ It sleeps warm: All that dense foam feels super contouring and cozy, but it did trap excess heat directly around the body for one of our testers. This could be an issue for hot sleepers.
❌ Slow response rate: The dense memory foam takes a while to regain shape. Combined with the high hug (for a hybrid), the heavier members of our testing panel felt stuck in the mattress.
The DreamCloud: Our verdict
When you frame The DreamCloud’s performance in terms of its below average cost ($649 for a queen is aggressively competitive in 2025), then it’s easy to see why it’s our best value pick. Is it perfect? No. Will it suit the large majority of sleepers who need a good Jack-of-all-trades mattress that won’t drain their bank account? Yes. If you want the best of the best, pick the Saatva Classic. But if you have a modest budget for a new bed that isolates motion well and delivers good pressure relief overall, then the DreamCloud is a sound choice. Read our DreamCloud Mattress review for more.
3. The best memory foam mattress
Why we rate it: The Nectar Premier is the best memory foam mattress you can buy this year. It impressed our review panel by offering great pressure relief, balanced support, and better motion isolation than its entry-level sibling the Nectar Classic. Our lead tester, Emily Peck, a combi sleeper, appreciated how well the mattress adapted to her movements, whether she was on her side or back. "It contoured my body so well, I felt cradled all night."
As Nectar’s mid-tier model, you can expect to pay around $949 for a queen, which is an incredible value compared to premium memory foam mattresses from Tempur-Pedic and Saatva. The Nectar Premier has twice the memory foam comfort layers of the Nectar Classic, so it skews more ‘medium’ than ‘firm.’ Combined with the 3” layer of responsive support foam, this culminated in a well-balanced bed feel for the majority of our testing panel.
How it performed during testing: We tested a queen Nectar Premier Memory Foam Mattress for a month, and our testers’ (positive) first impressions held throughout. The medium-firm (6.5/10) tension was a hit with our side and back sleepers, although our taller stomach sleepers wished for more support. There’s no threat of sleep divorce, either — the Nectar Premier aced our objective and real-world motion transfer tests.
Support and comfort: ★★★★½
Pressure relief: ★★★★½
Temperature regulation: ★★★★½
Motion isolation: ★★★★½
Edge support: ★★★★
Build quality: ★★★★
Our lead tester Emily noted the lack of a cozy, body-hugging sensation with the Nectar Classic, but the Nectar Premier delivered that in spades. The bottom layers provided sufficient support when she slept on her back and side, allowing her to enjoy the plushness of the top foams without sinking too low. Edge support is the weak point — it's still above average but not as sturdy as the Plank Firm (#9). Tall stomach sleepers might find the Nectar Premier too soft, so we recommend the Helix Dawn (#5) instead.
What we like about it
✅ Has a traditional memory foam feel: Like feeling hugged by your mattress? The squishy top comfort layers of the Nectar Premier will mold to your body, relieving any tension in your joints and back.
✅ Made for bed-sharing: You may sleep with a partner, your kids, or your pets — but the motion isolation here is so great, you’ll feel like you have the bed all to yourself.
✅ Cool for an all-foam bed: Our tester Emily immediately noticed how soothing the Nectar Premier felt upon contact. While it wouldn’t be our choice for chronically hot sleepers, the temperature control here is better than most we’ve observed from other memory foam mattresses.
What we don’t like about it
❌ Not firm enough for stomach sleepers: The lone dissenter in our testing panel was a front sleeper who would have liked more support for their hips. Dedicated stomach sleepers should try the Helix Dawn (#5).
❌ No side handles: We’ll admit, this is a nit-pick as side handles aren’t a standard feature, but it sure would make rotating the mattress much easier.
Nectar Premier Memory Foam: Our verdict
"Sumptuous" is the word our testing panel likes to use when describing the Nectar Premier. We strongly recommend it for side and back sleepers looking for deep pressure relief, as well as couples who want to be able to share a bed civilly. Heading into Memorial Day, expect to pay as little as $549 for a twin and $949 for a queen, which is standard sale pricing. Read our Nectar Premier Memory Foam Mattress review for more.
4. The best mattress for side sleepers
Why we rate it: The newly updated Helix Midnight Luxe hybrid is the comfiest mattress for side sleepers we’ve tested. The build quality of this CertiPUR-US memory foam and coil mattress is on a par with the Saatva Classic (#1), and the general balance of comfort versus support is excellent. Our Sleep Editor Nicola Appleton, who is testing the new Midnight Luxe, says it’s also a good choice for those who switch from side to back sleeping. “Back sleeping feels more supportive on the updated Helix Midnight Luxe, with the new 4lb titanium and graphite infused memory foam layer gently lifting my lumbar region."
The Midnight Luxe is designed with a denser plush quilted pillow top immediately followed by a layer of gel memory foam. Many of the average weight side sleepers on our review team described the marshmallow feel as “heavenly for side sleeping”. Or as Nicola describes it: “Lying on the Helix Midnight Luxe feels you’re being held by a cloud.” I'm also a side sleeper, but I have a heavier body weight than Nicola and I prefer the firmer feeling, less squishy Euro pillow top on the Saatva.
How it performed during testing: Our Sleep Editor Nicola tested the previous version of the Helix Midnight Luxe and is testing a queen size of the new version too, so she has a great overview of how changes in the construction of the mattress impact your sleep quality. At this point in testing, there aren’t many significant differences to report. The temperature regulation is better, so we’ve increased our test score on that feature from a 4 out of 5 to a 4.5 out of 5. There are a number of new cooling upgrades for the Helix Midnight Luxe too: a GlacioTex cover ($199 fee for all sizes) and CoolForce cooling ribbons (an extra $100 when you upgrade to the GlacioTex cover).
Support and comfort: ★★★★½
Pressure relief: ★★★★½
Temperature regulation: ★★★½
Motion isolation: ★★★★
Edge support: ★★★½
Build quality: ★★★★½
The Helix Midnight Luxe performed well in all of our key mattress tests, falling only slightly behind the Saatva Classic for overall support (courtesy of up to 1,000 individually wrapped coils) and comfort, and for motion isolation, edge support, and temperature control (we rate Helix as a 4.5/5 vs the Saatva at 5/5). The Luxe’s strong points are pressure relief when sleeping on your side, and motion isolation. Nicola shares her bed with her husband, and most nights their two boys climb into bed too. Even with all that wriggling around, Nicola sleeps well: “Who knew that it was possible for a seven year old to climb into bed right next to me undetected?”
What we like about it
✅ Breathable and fresh: The Midnight Luxe has good temperature regulation, with a Phase Change Material cover to dissipate excess heat. We rate it as hot sleeper friendly. Want a budget option? Try the Brooklyn Bedding Copperflex Pro (#8).
✅ Robust edge support: The perimeter support on the Helix Midnight Luxe is very strong (3” of sinkage under a 50lb weight), with minimal sinkage during our weight tests, and sit and lie tests.
✅ Great pressure relief for most: None of our testers felt pressure points along the body when lying on the Midnight Luxe. It’s ideal for side sleepers with hip, shoulder or back pain. For a cheaper alternative, try the Nectar Premier Memory Foam (#3).
What we don’t like about it
❌ Not much bounce: If you’re looking for a good mattress for sex as well as side sleeping, the Midnight Luxe isn’t as ideal as the slightly bouncier Saatva Classic (edge support is also stronger there).
❌ Medicore benefits: While Helix has increased the warranty from 15 years to a limited lifetime warranty, the rest of the benefits fall behind what we expect for a luxury bed: the trial is 100 nights (standard, but not a patch on Saatva’s year trial) and the free shipping is basic (Saatva offers free installation and old bed removal).
Helix Midnight Luxe: Our verdict
The Helix Midnight Luxe rules at side sleeping comfort. It costs $2,373.33 MSRP, reduced to $1,732.54 in the Memorial Day sales. We think that’s reasonable for the premium materials and build quality, but should you opt for the standard Helix Midnight at $999 for a queen if your budget is smaller? Sleep Editor Nicola says no: “After sleeping on the new Helix Midnight for a couple of weeks I started feeling pain along my shoulder blades and neck. I would consider the Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Pro Hybrid (#9) instead — it’s slightly firmer than the Luxe, but comes with a similar plush pillow top, plus the added benefit of cooling foams.” Read our Helix Midnight Luxe mattress review for more.
5. The best mattress for stomach sleepers
Why we rate it: Stomach sleeping gets a bad rap, but a mattress that properly supports this position can promote comfortable, restorative sleep. The Helix Dawn earned high praise from our Senior Sleep Writer Ruth Jones, who described it as "Definitely firm, but still very comfortable. The most effective pressure relief I felt was at my knees and hips, so I never felt sore sleeping on my stomach on the Dawn." That's because as firm as the Helix Dawn is (we rate it an 8/10 on the firmness scale), thick top foam layers dish out subtle give.
Although The Plank Firm has a dual-sided design that includes a ‘softer’ surface, the Helix Dawn reigns as the best mattress for stomach sleepers over others we've tested because we found it didn't push our hips too far upward. The overall support and comfort was also on a par with the Helix Dusk Luxe, our previous top choice for stomach sleepers, but the Dawn is over $700 cheaper, making it better value.
How it performed during testing: If you’re a combi sleeper who switches from front to back, the Helix Dawn will provide sufficient comfort either way. That was the case with our wider testing panel, who were surprised at how relaxed they felt resting on their backs. It’s also quite responsive, which is good for ease of movement. Firm mattresses aren’t a match for side sleepers, and the Helix Dawn is no exception. Ruth had to wake up her numb arm after falling asleep on her side a few times. If you’re under 130lbs, the Helix Dawn’s solid surface might not be to your liking either. There we recommend the Saatva Classic Plush (1#) or the Nectar Premier Memory Foam (#3).
Support and comfort: ★★★★½
Pressure relief: ★★★★½
Temperature regulation: ★★★★
Motion isolation: ★★★★
Edge support: ★★★★½
Build quality: ★★★★
The Helix Dawn performed very well in our motion isolation and edge support tests. The edge is sturdy along the sides where the coils are reinforced, but less so at the head and foot of the bed where they’re not. The mattress isolates motion well enough for most people, but light sleepers might find themselves disturbed by more vigorous movements. Temperature regulation wasn't so good once warmer weather arrived. "If you sleep hot or live in a warmer climate: consider the GlacioTex cooling cover upgrade ($199), " says Ruth. "I woke up a few times feeling hot and sweaty on the Dusk."
What we like about it
✅ Head-to-toe support for front sleepers: The Helix Dawn works as advertised by providing a comfortable, supportive bed for stomach sleepers — and back sleepers should get on well with it, too.
✅ It’s not totally unyielding: The pressure relief is subtle, but it’s there. Stomach sleepers benefit from some give along their pelvis and hips. The Helix Dawn achieves that balance of relief and support.
✅ You can make it cooler and add lumbar support: If you have the budget for it, upgrade the Helix Dawn to include a GlacioTex cooling cover and an ErgoAlign layer with a firm middle for lower back support.
What we don’t like about it
❌ It’s not side sleeper-friendly: The Helix Dawn won’t accommodate combi sleepers who occasionally land on their side from their stomach. The immense push back from the top foam layers aggravated our lead tester’s arm and shoulders when she slept on her side.
❌ It retains heat: As-is, the Helix Dawn isn’t as capable of regulating temperature as [insert example here]. Of course, you can mitigate this problem by adding the GlacioTex cooling cover upgrade.
Helix Dawn Mattress: Our verdict
If you’re too stubborn to give up stomach sleeping, the Helix Dawn is a nice compromise. It does an impeccable job of keeping your back straight and your hips level so you have fewer aches in the morning. A queen is normally sold at $1,099 after Helix’s 20% discount, but we could see as much as 27% off for Memorial Day, dropping that price to around $1,000. Read our Helix Dawn mattress review for more.
6. The best mattress for back sleepers
Why we rate it: We tested the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt Mattress for over three weeks, crowning it our top pick for back sleepers seeking that classic memory foam hug to wring the aches and pains out of your body. Its three-tier construction comprises two layers of Tempur Material plus a sturdy support core, culminating in a medium firm bed feel that's perfectly balanced for back and front sleepers.
We wouldn't call the Tempur-Adapt 'squishy' — our side-sleeping lead tester needed time to break it in — but the mattress does mold to the contours of your body, particularly along the lumbar region, which is a major reason why we consider it the best mattress for back sleepers. It also boasts some of the most impressive motion isolation we've experienced, as Tempur Material effortlessly absorbs movement. It's over double the cost of the Nectar Premier (#3), but we think the legendary NASA developed Tempur foam is worth it for comfy and support back sleeping.
How it performed during testing: Mattress tester Alison Barretta isn't a natural back sleeper, but she loved it when testing the Tempur-Adapt mattress. "I could feel the magic of Tempur Material at work — particularly along my lower back, which tends to give me fits." Said Alison, who has mild scoliosis. "Sleeping on my front was also comfy as the mattress cradled my hips without dipping too low."
Support and comfort: ★★★★½
Pressure relief: ★★★★½
Temperature regulation: ★★
Motion isolation: ★★★★★
Edge support: ★★★½
Build quality: ★★★★★
At 7.5 out of 10 for firmness, it’s just about firm enough for most stomach sleepers too, although side sleepers might find it a little firm at first. Be warned, as an all-foam mattress, the Tempur-Pedic does trap a bit of heat. Personally I love the feel of Tempur foam: it's cushioning, cradling, and absolutely one of the best materials I've experienced for eradicating pressure points and easing aches when you're lying down to sleep. The only issue for me, as a hot sleeper, is that Tempur foam retains some heat. But Tempur-Pedic saved me from bad hip pain during pregnancy so the extra warmth was a hit I was willing to take.
What we like about it
✅ It eradicates aches and pains: Nothing beats Tempur foam if you want maximum cradling around your aching body. It's highly soothing and deeply effective.
✅ It stops all motion: Good news if you share a bed with a restless sleeper – you won't feel them at all on the Tempur-Adapt mattress. It's one of the best mattresses we've tested for stop motioning transferring across the bed.
✅ It's well made: As it should be considering a queen size costs from $1,999 on sale. Tempur-Pedic mattresses are dense, heavy and durable, so they'll easily last eight years or more (the warranty covers you for 10 years).
What we don't like about
❌ Heat retention: This might not be an issue for you if you enjoy cozy and warm mattresses, or you live in a cold climate. But if you're a hot sleeper like me, think carefully about this one. I felt the trade-off in pain relief was worth it, but if you don't, try the Nectar Premier (#3) instead for breathable memory foam pressure relief.
❌ Tempur foam is like quick sand: You can't move around easily on the Tempur-Adapt mattress, which did put some of our testing panel off – they felt wedged in.
Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt Mattress: Our verdict
If you're a back or stomach sleeper who deals with bouts of back pain, you'll enjoy the Tempur-Adapt's combo of full-body support and gentle contouring along your midsection. But if you're prone to running warm at night, proceed with caution as this all-foam mattress traps heat and won't be the best choice for you unless you upgradie to the Tempur-Adapt Hybrid (queen is priced $2,299 on sale) to boost airflow. Read our Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt mattress review for more.
7. The best cooling mattress
Why we rate it: The Bear Elite Hybrid is a 14" luxury mattress for hot sleepers boasting premium cooling technologies. A combination of Phase Changing Material (PCM), copper infused foam and an (optional) Celliant cover work together to capture heat and convert it into infrared energy to reduce muscle fatigue and pain, and to wick moisture away from the body. All of which translates to a reliably cool night's sleep. The inclusion of individually encased spring coils help boost the bed's overall breathability, while zoned lumbar support helps keep back pain at bay.
In terms of specs, the Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlexPro Hybrid (#9) offers a similar performance for half the price. However, the Bear also offers three firmness options to choose from, making it suitable for all sleepers. Plus, if temperature regulation is your primary sleep concern, the Bear marginally outperforms the CopperFlex Pro with a score of 5 out 5 (versus 4.5 out of 5.) Our lead tester slept on a queen size medium firm Bear Elite Hybrid for three weeks period during a Texan summer and slept comfortably every night.
How it performed during testing: Although Phase Change Material and copper infused foam come as standard with the Bear, our lead tester upgraded to the Celliant cover for additional cooling. She slept on the Bear Elite during a sweltering Texan summer and despite the hot temperatures, she was able to fall asleep quickly and didn’t wake in the night in a tangle of hot sheets and sweat.
Support and comfort: ★★★★½
Pressure relief: ★★★★½
Temperature regulation: ★★★★★
Motion isolation: ★★★★½
Edge support: ★★★★
Build quality: ★★★★
Alex tested the Bear in a medium feel, which she rated as 6 out of 10 on the firmness scale. As an average weight back and stomach sleeper Alex found that the plush top layer gently cradled her shoulders, hips and knees. However, she credits the zoned coil system for preventing her from sinking into the mattress. Support around the perimeter of the bed was a sticking point. Alex was able to sleep and sit on the sides of the mattress safely, but support at the foot and corners of the mattress was unreliable. If a full perimeter edge is important to you, pick the Saatva Classic (#1) instead.
What we like about it…
✅ Active cooling technology: Technical cooling features including Phase Change Material (PCM), copper infused foam and an optional upgrade to a Celliant cooling cover scored the Bear 5 out of 5 for temperature regulation.
✅ Zoned lumbar support: While the plush quilting of the medium Bear Elite Hybrid provides body contouring support, the mattresses' zoned coil system holds you on the top of the bed, helping to prevent back and joint pain.
✅ Aids physical recovery: The Celliant cover not only takes heat and transfers it back into the mattress, it also helps boost circulation for the sleeper. What does this mean? Muscle recovery is aided, which is great for those who are particularly physically active.
What we don't like about it...
❌ Support at the foot of the bed is lacking: Support along the sides of the mattress is excellent, which means you can sit and sleep comfortable right up to the bed's edge. However, the foot and corners of the mattress are less sturdy.
❌ Celliant cover costs extra: The Celliant cover is a huge draw for the Bear Elite, but it costs extra. Right now you'll pay $195 for a queen Celliant cover (was $300) after a 35% discount.
Bear Elite Hybrid: Our verdict
The Bear Elite Hybrid is a premium cooling mattress that comes in three different feels. After testing we feel its best suited to very hot sleepers who otherwise keeping waking up at night due to overheating and night sweats. A 35% off Bear mattress sale means that a twin starts at $1,299 while a queen costs $1,577.55 (was $2,427.) The price jumps up to $1,772.55 if you want the Celliant cover. We saw prices drop by 40% during some major holiday sales last year, but 35% off is an excellent deal this side of summer. Read our Bear Elite Hybrid mattress review for more.
8. The best pillow top mattress
Why we rate it: The Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Pro Hybrid is a new addition to our best mattress guide because we've been so impressed with its pillowtop comfort and cooling prowess for an affordable price ($745 for a queen on sale). The mattress is topped with a cool-touch GlacioTex cover, giving way to an upper layer of memory foam infused with copper to draw heat away from the body while you sleep. Like the DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid (#2), the CopperFlex Pro looks and feels more premium than you'd expect at this price point ($745.50 in the Memorial Day sales).
The combination of its cooling technology, individually cased steel coils and pressure relieving pillow top provides excellent comfort and support for side and back sleepers. "While I've been sleeping on the CopperFlex Pro Hybrid mattress through a heatwave, I haven't found myself running hot at night like I used to when sleeping on a standard spring mattress," notes Sleep Staff Writer Eve Davies, who reviewed this mattress in a box.
How it performed during testing: We tested the Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Pro for one month in a hot attic room during a heatwave. Despite this, our lead tester Eve — who tested the CopperFlex Pro immediately after sleeping on the ultra cooling Eight Sleep Pod 4 — felt the CopperFlex Pro kept temperatures well regulated and didn’t wake up hot once. Brooklyn Bedding rates the Pro Hybrid as 7 out of 10 for firmness, nudging it towards the firmer end of the medium-firm spectrum. After testing it, we'd agree with that assessment. Our panel of mattress testers also noted that it provided enough pressure relief to comfortably support average weight side and back sleepers.
Support and comfort: ★★★★
Pressure relief: ★★★★½
Temperature regulation: ★★★★½
Motion isolation: ★★★★
Edge support: ★★★★
Build quality: ★★★★½
"The medium-firm feel supports all the positions of an average weight combination sleeper, while zoned lumbar support helps keep the spine in healthy alignment." Says Eve, who slept on it for a month. However, heavier bodies and stomach sleepers will likely need something firmer while lighter weight side sleepers will require something plusher, like the Bear Elite at #8, with its three firmness options to choose from. Eve slept on the CopperFlex Pro while training for a marathon, and the zoned lumbar support did an excellent job of preventing back and joint pain. However the Bear Elite Hybrid (#8) has an optional Celliant cover to boost faster physical recovery.
What we like about it…
✅ Specialist cooling materials at affordable price: Specialist cooling mattresses are premium products that can command a higher price tag. Despite its affordable price, the CopperFlex Pro boasts a GlacioTex cover and copper infused foam for reliable cooling.
✅ Zoned lumbar support helps relieve back and joint pain: Zoned lumbar support helps keep the spine in correct alignment, preventing pain and pressure buildup in the joints.
✅ Luxurious mattress for less: Like the DreamCloud (#2), the CopperFlex Pro is a premium mattress that belies its mid-range price tag. The plush, honeycomb pillow top wouldn't look out of place in a luxury hotel.
What we don't like about it...
❌ Too tall for deep sheets: The CopperFlex Pro stands at a luxurious 14" tall. While deep mattresses indicate greater support, its tall build did cause our deep sheets to slip and slide off during the night during testing. For something shallower but still supportive, consider the Purple mattress at 9.25" tall.
❌ Not suitable for those with mobility issues: Unless you're able to lower your bed foundation, the CopperFlex Pro could pose an issue for those with mobility issues due to its high loft. If you're looking for another high quality hybrid at a reasonable price, try the DreamCloud at #2.
Brooklyn Bedding Copperflex Pro: Our verdict
With its specialist cooling materials, zoned lumbar support and a premium pillow top build, the Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Pro Hybrid offers a lot of mattress for the money. You'll pay $652.40 for a twin, while a queen drops to $932 (was $1,332) thanks to a 30% off Memorial Day sale. That's the lowest price it's been since its launch earlier this year, and potentially the lowest price it will be until Labor Day in September. Read our Brooklyn Bedding Copperflex Pro mattress review for more.
9. The best firm mattress
Why we rate it: The Plank Firm mattress stands out in this guide due to its double-sided design: Firm on one side, Extra Firm on the other. Like all the best firm mattresses it promises superior support, and the enhanced weight capacity makes it suitable for sleepers with heavier bodies (240lbs and over). Even the top-rated Saatva Classic can only hold up to 600lbs, but the Plank Firm supports up to 950lbs (The DreamCloud can support up to 1,000lbs). The Plank Firm might be an all-foam mattress but it doesn't deliver a traditional foam feel. It hardly yields beneath the body.
It might not be cozy but it is supportive, lifting and straightening the spine to prevent back ache, and that's why it's in this spot compared to other firm mattresses we have tested, including the Siena Memory Foam and The WinkBed (see both mattresses in our Also Tested section). Our Senior Sleep Staff Writer Ruth Jones spent six weeks sleeping on the Plank Firm mattress. Her initial reaction was "Wow, that's firm," and we think for some people (side sleepers in particular) it will be hard to see past that hard bed build. But by the end of her testing period, Ruth's overall impression was: "The support is incredible."
How it performed during testing: Every member of our testing panel had the same reaction to the Plank Firm mattress: utter surprise at the hard surface. But that's what The Plank promises and we're happy that it delivers. Few 'extra firm' mattresses live up to that designation in the long run but The Plank remained firmly supportive throughout our extended testing period. It isn't only firmness where the Plank excels – we awarded it 4.5 out of 5 for motion isolation, which puts it on par with The DreamCloud and only slightly behind the all-foam Nectar Premier.
Support and comfort: ★★★★
Pressure relief: ★★★★
Temperature regulation: ★★★½
Motion isolation: ★★★★½
Edge support: ★★★★★
Build quality: ★★★★
The Plank Firm definitely isn't for everyone. The lightest member of our team found the mattress so uncomfortable that she was ready to jump out of bed after just a few minutes of lying on it. Ruth found it hard (literally) to lie on her side during the night, but love it for stomach sleeping. If you have a bigger build, expect the foams to yield more when side sleeping, resulting in a more comfortable feel. As with the Saatva Classic, we awarded The Plank Firm full marks for edge support. This is a benefit as you can use the full surface of the mattress without sliding off.
What we like about it...
✅ Exceptional back support: The Plank Firm is supportive from head to toe. Our tester with back pain appreciated how the mattress kept her lumbar region lifted so she didn't wake up with back ache.
✅ Suitable for sleepers with a bigger build: With a total weight capacity of 950lbs, the Plank Firm can accommodate heavier people. And the firmer feel cradles bigger bodies without the sag that accompanies softer mattresses.
✅ As firm as it promises: The Plank Firm is the firmest mattress we've tested; it's not quite like lying on the floor but it's close. If you've been disappointed by firm mattresses in the past, we don't think this one will let you down.
What we don't like about it...
❌ Some slight heat retention: When Sleep Staff Writer Ruth was testing the Plank Firm, she was waking up warm. Overheating is a common problem with all-foam beds, but the firm Siena Memory Foam does a better job at regulating temperature.
❌ No handles for flipping: While we like a pair of handles on a mattress (it makes them easier to move) it's rarely a dealbreaker. However, as the double-sided Plank Firm is designed to be flipped, it's bizarre to not have them.
The Plank Firm mattress: Our verdict
The Extra Firm build, enhanced support and 950lbs weight capacity makes the Plank Firm mattress an excellent choice for stomach sleepers, back sleepers and those with a heavier build — but average to lightweight side sleepers should look for something with more pressure relief such as the Saatva Classic or Helix Midnight Luxe. There's often 25% off at Plank but for Memorial Day that's been upped to 30%, reducing a twin to $524.30 (was $749) and a queen $932.40 (was $1,332.) That's the best price we've seen this year. Read our Plank Firm mattress review for more.
10. The best mattress under $400
Why we rate it: The Siena Memory Foam is the top recommendation in our best cheap mattress guide thanks to superb performance for the low price. This all-foam mattress is made by the parent company of Nectar and DreamCloud, and that influence is evident in the Siena’s construction and performance, which feel more suited to a mattress that costs more than its typical price of $349 for a queen. We've tested the Siena Memory Foam Mattress twice and performance has been consistent.
While Siena rates this mattress as a medium firm (6.5 out of 10), our testing panel rates it a 9 (very firm) and recommends it to stomach sleepers seeking a budget alternative to The Plank Firm (#9). Our tester Alison, who reviewed the Siena first, says: "I would have liked a little more pressure relief for side sleeping, but I often flop onto my stomach and the ultra-firm Siena was ace at keeping my hips level. The edge support is among the best I've experienced for a cheap foam mattress too."
Support and comfort: ★★★★
Pressure relief: ★★★★
Temperature regulation: ★★★★
Motion isolation: ★★★★½
Edge support: ★★★★
Build quality: ★★★★
How it performed during testing: Senior Sleep Staff Writer Frances Daniels took part in the re-testing for the Siena Memory Foam Mattress. While Frances is a side sleeper, she appreciated the support on offer for stomach sleepers: "I also barely felt any movement from other testers when they got in and out of bed, proving that the Siena delivers the excellent motion isolation of memory foam without the quicksand softness that can make front sleeping uncomfortable."
The Siena Mattress proves that good sleep needn't cost the earth. We've put this cheap memory foam mattress in a box through two rounds of testing now and continue to be impressed with its performance for the price ($349 for a queen). I was a member of the review panel for our recent re-testing too and while I didn't love it for side sleeping (way too firm and not enough foam hug) I can vouch for its stomach and back sleeper support. I think it's the best mattress you can buy this year for small budgets.
What we like about it
✅ Breathable for memory foam: The lack of a deep sink allows the Siena to avoid overheating sleepers, a common issue with memory foam mattresses.
✅ Great pressure relief: For a firm mattress (we rate it a 9 out of 10 on the firmness scale), it's surprisingly good and will slightly deepen over time — but even then, it won't be much.
✅ All over support: This firm, flat mattress will please stomach sleepers and even some back sleepers. Even the edge support excels – its the best we've evaluated among all budget mattresses we've reviewed to date.
What we don't like about it
❌ Too firm for side sleepers: If you only sleep on your side, look elsewhere as the Siena Memory Foam is far too firm to be comfortable. For a budget option, consider the Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam (#11).
❌ Much firmer than advertised: We feel that Siena Sleep is way off the mark in calling this a medium firm mattress. It's a 9 out of 10 on the firmness scale for us.
Siena Memory Foam Mattress: Our verdict
There are plenty of affordable mattresses online, but very few perform well in all areas. The Siena is an exception, outperforming its price tag in most facets. No, it's not on the level of a Saatva or a Tempur-Pedic but it far outpaces the likes of Linenspa and Zinus, which are a couple of Siena's budget-priced rivals. With most cheap mattresses, you're lucky to get a 30-day return window, but the Siena comes on a 180-night trial – that's nearly twice as long as Helix's trial. The 10-year warranty is the industry average and great value for a budget bed.
- Read more: Siena Memory Foam Mattress review
11. The best mattress under $300
How it performed during testing: While Zinus describes the 10" Green Tea as a 6.5 on the firmness scale, we found it a touch softer than that — particularly on warm nights. It's not unusual for a memory foam mattress to soften with heat and this bed delivered a plusher feel when temperatures soared. That puts it in stark contrast to our other budget pick, the Siena Memory Foam, which was firmer than expected (we rate the firmness as an 8 out of 10). If the Siena is ideal for back and stomach sleepers, then the Zinus is the side sleeper equivalent.
Support and comfort: ★★★
Pressure relief: ★★★★
Temperature regulation: ★★★
Motion isolation: ★★★★★
Edge support: ★★½
Build quality: ★★★
We found the cushioning dreamy at the shoulders and hips, with the foams yielding under the body to reduce pressure build-up. The dense foams also eat up motion, so if your partner fidgets you won't feel them shift. The flipside of this is that the cocooning effect can make it hard to move in the first place. While some people like this cradling feel, Ruth wasn't a fan: "I hated having to fight the mattress any time I changed position. Edge support was a problem too," says Ruth, "and it tended to overheat."
What we like about it
✅ Oodles of pressure relief: Where your body presses against the mattress, the Zinus hugs back to relieve aches and pains. It's similar to the squishy foams you'll find in the Tempur-Adapt (#6) but on a much smaller budget.
✅ Deadens movement: If your partner moves during the night the Zinus foams will capture that motion and stop it, so you can sleep undisturbed.
✅ Always affordable: The 8" Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam is often sold for around $190 for a queen, which is cheap for this quality of mattress. In comparison, the budget-friendly Siena costs around $349 for a queen.
What we don't like about it
❌ Lacks support at the edges: The Zinus is weak at the edges. Senior Sleep Writer Ruth dropped her phone on the floor one night and nearly slid off the bed trying to pick it up. The Siena Memory Foam offers stronger sides on a budget.
❌ Traps heat: Our lead tester frequently woke up warm on the Zinus and she's not a hot sleeper. If you sleep warm but lack the budget for a cooling mattress such as the Bear Elite Hybrid (#7), try a cooling topper like the Molecule CopperWELL Topper.
Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam: Our verdict
Pressure relief is where the Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress excels, with a marshmallow feel that's cushioned and cradling for side sleepers. However, that soft foam 'hug' effect means stomach and back sleepers will lack some support and while the motion isolation is superb, it does make moving around difficult. But we expect some sacrifices in this price bracket and for Memorial Day an 8-inch queen Zinus Green Tea is only $199.99 at Amazon. We have seen it for cheaper before, so if you aren't in a rush to buy, keep an eye out for price drops. Read our Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress review for more.
Why we rate it: While there are plenty of cheap mattresses online, the Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress wins its place in this guide by pairing a super-low price tag ($223 for a queen at Amazon) with a dense foam build. Pressure relief is where it excels, cradling the body at the shoulders and hips so you can spend all night lying on your side without aches and pains. We think the Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress is one of the best cheap mattresses for comfort on a budget and recommend buying for the 8" or 10" version for the best combination of comfort and low pricing.
The Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress has a surface you immediately sink into, delivering the 'body-hugging' feel we expect from a traditional all-foam mattress. Our Senior Sleep Staff Writer Ruth Jones spent over three weeks sleeping on a full size Zinus Green Tea Mattress, rating it 5.5 out of 10 on the firmness scale. But there's one area the Zinus is lacking in and that's support. Ruth felt "achiness" after stomach sleeping due to her hips sinking in too much.
Test scores compared
Mattress | Pressure relief | Temperature regulation | Motion isolation | Edge support | Build quality |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Saatva Classic | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
The DreamCloud | ★★★★½ | ★★★★½ | ★★★★½ | ★★★★ | ★★★★ |
Nectar Premier | ★★★★½ | ★★★★½ | ★★★★½ | ★★★★ | ★★★★ |
Helix Midnight Luxe | ★★★★½ | ★★★★½ | ★★★★ | ★★★★½ | ★★★★½ |
Helix Dawn | ★★★★½ | ★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★★½ | ★★★★ |
Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt | ★★★★½ | ★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★½ | ★★★★★ |
Bear Elite Hybrid | ★★★★½ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★½ | ★★★★ | ★★★★ |
Brooklyn Bedding Copperflex Pro | ★★★★½ | ★★★★½ | ★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★★½ |
The Plank Firm | ★★★★ | ★★★½ | ★★★★½ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Siena Memory Foam | ★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★★½ | ★★★★ | ★★★★ |
Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam | ★★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★½ | ★★★ |
Also tested
The mattresses in this section are the highest performers from the rest of the 90+ mattresses we've tested. Ultimately they were beaten by our top-rated beds above, but if you haven't found an option you like in our main buying guide then these are worth considering.
Why You Can Trust Us
Our Sleep Team has over 30 years’ product testing experience between us. We have an extensive catalogue of mattress resources to guide you through everything you need to know about mattresses. These range from understanding mattress firmness and how to choose the right feel for your body, to how to dispose of an old mattress.
Our Sleep Team is 100% dedicated to mattresses. We live and breathe mattresses, bedding and sleep tech. This enables us to become fully immersed in the sleep market, meaning we’re often head hunted by top-rated brands to cover their new products before other sites.
Our Managing Editor is a Certified Sleep Science Coach. Claire Davies heads up Tom’s Guide’s mattress guides and reviews. She is certified to give sleep hygiene advice and to help people choose the right products to sleep better. A qualified journalist, Claire worked as a Health Editor before joining Tom’s Guide four years ago and has extensive experience of writing about mattresses and sleep products. Claire's sleep hygiene tips and mattress buying advice has appeared on a number of leading websites, including TechRadar, T3, and Woman & Home.
Our Best Mattress rankings are audited regularly. Every mattress featured in this buying guide has been chosen by our team based on how it performed in our vigorous in-house testing. Each time we publish a new mattress review we compare all of its test data with the data sets we captured in our Sleep Lab for every other mattress we have tested. We do this to make sure we are only recommending the best options.
Mattresses we're testing right now
Our team is constantly testing a variety of different mattresses to ensure we’re only recommending the very best options for every budget, sleep position, and body type. Here’s a selection of the mattresses we currently have at our Sleep Lab or out on test at our reviewers’ homes:
Avocado Grand Luxe: Released last month, this 17-layer organic mattress caught our eye. We have it out on test now and are super-excited to hear what it feels like to sleep on. ‘Luxuriate with the pillow top’ is now our unofficial team motto (thanks, Avocado).
Saatva Solaire: We’re in the final stages of testing this adjustable firmness mattress in a queen size. Early data tells us it’s a contender for this year’s best smart beds.
Sleep Number i8: Another smart mattress we’re in the final stages of testing. It’s performing well in motion isolation tests, but falling down in our temperature regulation tests. Read our Sleep Number i8 hands-on review.
Helix Midnight (updated for 2025): Our Sleep Editor Nicola Appleton has just wrapped up testing on the newly updated Core Midnight. “Unfortunately it has caused me a lot of shoulder pain.”
Helix Midnight Luxe (updated for 2025): Nicola has now switched to the Helix Midnight Luxe, and early test data suggests it’s a brilliant upgrade on what was already a super-comfy side sleeper bed.
Birch Natural Luxe: Tom’s Guide Sleep Features Editor Lauren is testing this natural mattress with a view to publishing her full review in June. So far she says, “The natural, breathable materials make it feel cool, clean and comfortable - so much so, I've started sleeping through the night again.”
Ego Home Hybrid: We always make sure we have at least one budget mattress on test each month, and this one by Ego Home is an Amazon best-seller. Full review coming in June 2025.
Plush Beds Botanical Bliss: Our full review is coming right after Memorial Day, but here’s a quick highlight from our testing notes: “This mattress dampens motion across the surface of the bed incredibly well, so is a great option for restless sleepers and bed sharers. Compared to other organic mattresses on the market, the price is more than fair.”
How we test mattresses
We take our mattress testing seriously. We know what a huge impact a mattress can have on the quality of your sleep so we perform all our own in-house testing and have a triple-check system in place to make sure that the data gathered in our sleep studio and during at-home testing is accurate and verified.
Our mattress review process is editorially independent and not influenced by any third parties. We use an experienced team of product testers hand-picked and headed up by our Senior Sleep Editor Claire Davies, and we are very strict about our mattress review guidelines.
These include a minimum testing period of three weeks – triple the time some other sites commit too – and extensive analysis of customer reviews to create a 360 degree picture of what this mattress feels like to different types of sleeper.
We take photos of each stage of our mattress testing process, from delivery and unboxing through to images of us at work in our studio performing drop tests, temperature regulation tests and more. Our images might not be the prettiest, but they do show that we are honest and transparent about our mattress testing process.
When we take delivery of a new mattress, these are the key areas we test it in because we feel like each of these features has the biggest impact on your sleep quality:
- Ease of setup
- Feel (firmness)
- Support and comfort
- Pressure relief
- Motion isolation
- Edge support
- Temperature regulation
- Responsiveness
- Build quality and durability
Because mattress firmness is subjective we don’t just take our lead reviewer’s rating into account. We also ask a trusted and experienced testing panel, made up of people with different sleep needs and body types, to rate each mattress using a specific set of performance criteria.
We test and fact-check every comfort, cooling and support claim a manufacturer makes about the mattress we’re testing. We also conduct extensive user review research to discover what current customers think of the mattress too.
We do this to spot any potential patterns in terms of longterm support, comfort and durability, and to understand how the mattress performs over a longer period of use.
We test mattresses for at least three weeks because this is the minimum amount of time it takes (on average) to get used to sleeping on a new mattress. So looking at customer reviews covering a longer period helps us build up a thorough picture of the mattress.
Our mattress methodology contains more information on our full testing process.
How to choose the best mattress for you
My top tip when buying a mattress online is to only buy one that comes with a sleep trial. It takes around 30 nights for your body to get used to a new mattress (early aches sometimes say more about the quality of an old mattress than a new one), and many manufacturers won’t accept a return for the first 30 days because of this.
The average sleep trial lasts 100 nights, with the longest lasting a year, so you’ll get ample time to make sure that the mattress you’ve chosen is the best match for you. All of the top recommended mattresses in this guide come with a free trial except the budget Linenspa, which instead comes with a 30-day returns policy.
Here are the main factors to consider when choosing a mattress:
- Your sleep position
- Your weight
- Your health
- Mattress size
- Firmness
1. Your sleep style
Do you sleep on your side, back, or stomach — or a combination of each? When buying a mattress, think about about how you drop into bed each night and how your body is positioned come morning. Doing this will help you narrow your choices to mattresses that best fit your sleep position (also known as your sleep style).
Here’s a general overview of which mattress types to look for based on your dominant sleep style:
- Side sleepers usually fare well with soft to medium memory foam mattress that contours their shoulders, knees, and hips.
- Back sleepers typically want a medium-firm hybrid mattress or a firmer memory foam mattress to promote a neutral spine while supporting the hips and shoulders.
- Stomach sleepers often like a medium-firm to firm hybrid mattress to keep their hips level with the rest of their body, but sleepers under 130lbs may opt for a medium hybrid or memory foam mattress.
- Combination sleepers can shop according to their dominant sleep style; a medium-firm mattress is considered the universal standard for comfort.
2. Your body weight
A person weighing 150lbs and a person weighing 250lbs can test the same mattress and have wildly different opinions on how soft and supportive it feels. Here's how to buy the right mattress based on your weight:
- Sleepers under 150lbs should look for a soft to medium mattress that'll provide enough contouring relative to the amount of pressure their bodies apply to the sleep surface. (Memory foam is usually a good choice for this.)
- Sleepers from 150lbs to 250lbs will want a medium to medium-firm mattress for balanced plushness and support. If you fall into this range, you'll especially need to consider your sleep style. For instance, a side sleeper closer to 150lbs should look for a softer mattress, while a back sleeper who's around 250lbs will want to skew firmer.
- Sleepers over 250lbs usually need a firm mattress that's sturdy enough to provide relief where their bodies press against the mattress without sinking too low. These are usually hybrids or latex-based beds with a strong supportive core, as you'll find in our guide to the best mattresses for heavy people.
3. Your health
Whether you deal with back and joint pain, hot flashes, sleep apnea, or GERD, it's important to choose a mattress that'll foster comfortable sleep in light of your conditions.
For back and hip pain: A hybrid mattress with zoned coils is often a good bet as provides targeted relief and support in the appropriate areas. If you deal with sore joints, try a mattress with slow-moving memory foam that neatly contours your body and promotes a natural spine. For those who need to sit when getting in and out of bed, strong edge support is a must — this will usually be a hybrid with heavier coils lining the perimeter.
For overheating due to health conditions: Consider a cooling mattress with heat-dissipating materials such as infused foams and specialist fibers woven into the cover that emit a cool-to-the-touch sensation. Alternatively, invest in a smart bed with built-in climate controls so you can adjust the temperature of the surface.
For sleep apnea and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Pairing a mattress with an adjustable base will allow you to raise your head at a comfortable angle. Memory foam mattresses are usually the best choice for adjustable bases because they're lighter and more pliable, but many hybrids are compatible, as well.
4. Your sleeping arrangements
Whether you sleep alone or share a bed, you'll need to factor your sleeping arrangements into your overall mattress buying process. Our complete guide to mattress sizes in the US explains how to choose the right size mattress for your body, sleeping position, the person you bedshare with (if you share), and other considerations such as the size of your bedroom.
Meanwhile, if you do share a bed, you'll want a mattress that excels at dampening movement so you don't disturb each other with your movements. (Memory foam is usually the best for motion isolation.) Another way to avoid sleep divorce is to buy split size, which fuses two smaller beds together so each person can have their own surface while still being able to share a bed.
Mattress shopping advice
How to choose the right mattress firmness
All sleep brands rate the firmness of their mattresses on a 10-point scale, with 1 being soft and fluffy and 10 being a slab of stone. While this seems straightforward, there's no universal standard of mattress firmness as every brand has its own interpretation of what's plush and what's hard.
This is why it's important to purchase a mattress according to your sleep style and weight, as that'll influence how firm your mattress should be. If you're not keen on extremes, medium-firm is a good starting point. (Most hotel mattresses are medium-firm to cater to as many guests as possible.)
If your mattress comes in a box, make sure to set it up as soon as possible — the longer a mattress is compressed, the more it'll affect the overall bed feel. You should always buy a mattress with a trial period so you can exchange or return it for something that's a better fit.
How to buy a mattress online
The online mattress space has boomed over the last decade as sleep brands endeavor to make the buying process as simple as possible. Still, it's natural to have reservations about making such a big-ticket purchase from your laptop or smartphone. Here's how you can make the experience of buying a mattress online as painless as possible:
1. Don't buy without a mattress trial
Even if you've seen the mattress you want to buy up-close in a store, you won't know how it really performs until you're able to sleep on it each night. The average mattress trial is 100 nights, with some brands offering up to a full year so you can sample it across all four seasons. Remember that it takes at least three weeks for your body to adjust to a new sleep surface, and most brands won't accept returns before 30 days.
2. Know what the mattress warranty covers
More online sleep brands are keen to offer a mattress warranty for life to ease the minds of concerned customers. However, these terms aren't uniform across all companies — and many lifetime warranties are prorated after a certain point, meaning you'll have to at least pay in part for repairs or returns. Know what you may be getting into before you click 'buy' to prevent headaches later.
3. Consider shipping and delivery options
Most online sleep brands sell mattresses in a box, which means you'll have to set it up. This keeps the costs low, but if you're unable to unbox and haul a mattress yourself, consider a brand that offers White Glove Delivery. With this service, your mattress is delivered flat and set up in a room of your choice. Brands like Saatva and Tempur-Pedic provide free White Glove Delivery, while others charge a fee. White Glove Delivery often includes removal of your existing mattress, as well.
4. Do your homework
Know what type of mattress you need before you start shopping. (Refer to our buying tips above to help you out.) Also, read reviews from professional testers like ourselves and everyday shoppers who share your sleep preferences. Don't just focus on the glowing or scathing reviews, either — most people's experiences will be somewhere in the middle.
Frequently asked questions
What is a mattress trial and are they free?
A mattress trial is also known as a sleep trial and these are specific periods of time, set out by the company who makes your mattress, within which you can sleep on and test your new mattress at home to ensure it’s the right choice for you.
Mattress trials normally range from 90 nights to a whole year and we recommend only buying a mattress that comes on a sleep trial of at least 60 nights. That’s because it can take your body at least 30 nights to get used to a new mattress.
Most mattress manufacturers offer free shipping and exchanges or returns but a small handful charge a fee for exchanges and returns. Saatva, the maker of our number one-rated mattress, charges a $99 fee. Tempur-Pedic charges a $175 fee if you choose to return your mattress within the 90-night trial period.
These are the trial periods offered by our 9 top-rated mattress brands...
Brand | Trial length |
Saatva | 1 Year |
DreamCloud | 1 Year |
Nectar | 1 Year |
Helix Sleep | 1 Year |
Tempur-Pedic | 90 nights |
Bear Mattress | 120 nights |
Siena Sleep | 180 nights |
What are the best mattress brands?
We’ve been testing mattresses for over five years and have slept on mattresses made by every leading mattress brand in America. Based on our in-house testing and our extensive analysis of user reviews and customer satisfaction surveys the best mattress brands are Saatva, DreamCloud, Nectar, Helix, Tempur-Pedic, Bear Mattress, and Siena Sleep.
These companies routinely make excellent mattresses for a range of sleep needs and different budgets, from cheap to luxury. These brands also generally earn high user review scores and are rated favourably in customer satisfaction polls.
In addition to great reviews for performance and price, these brands offer good benefits: a long sleep trial (at least 100 nights, with year trials becoming more common), a decent warranty (at least 10 years, but lifetime warranties are also common), and free shipping (most offer free standard shipping but Saatva offers free White Glove Delivery – a premium service with free old mattress removal).
How much should a good quality mattress cost?
Since the pandemic hit the cost of some types of mattresses has jumped up. The price increase has mainly affected hybrid, luxury and organic mattresses, which makes sense as all of these contain more materials (and premium ones at that) compared to memory foam mattresses.
In 2025 the cost of a good quality cheap mattress costs around $399 while good quality luxury queen mattresses are normally on sale for around $1,799.
The mid-range mattress market is where we find good quality mattresses for $1,000 and under in a queen size. These are made by brands such as Bear, Helix, Purple, DreamCloud, Nectar, and Casper.
Mattresses for $1,000 fall into the sweet spot between enhanced comfort and support (compared to cheaper mattresses) and price (more affordable than luxury mattresses yet mid-range models don’t match the higher build quality and performance of their luxury rivals).
They are well worth buying because they deliver many of the features of real top-performing mattresses for a more affordable price of $1,000 and under for a queen.
When is the best month to buy a mattress?
There are six major holiday mattress sales per calendar year and the two best months to buy a mattress are May and November. In May we have the Memorial Day mattress sales and this is an excellent time to buy a current season top-rated mattress for less before prices sky rocket over the summer period.
During last year’s Memorial Day sale we saw Black Friday-beating mattress prices from Helix Sleep, Bear Mattress, and DreamCloud Sleep. Helix introduced a 30% discount – the highest we’d seen last year at the time – reducing a queen size Midnight Luxe to $1,661 (the previous Black Friday it cost $1,780).
Bear Mattress increased its discount from 35% off to 40% – another first for Memorial Day last year – with a queen size reduced to just $598 (was $998). That’s a fantastic price for a top-rated mattress.
DreamCloud also increased its discount from up to 40% off to up to 50%, driving the cost of the queen size Luxury Hybrid mattress to $665.
Apart from the Helix 30% discount, most Memorial Day sale offers reappeared as Black Friday mattress deals last November. So the best month to buy a mattress is May if you want the biggest discounts and cheapest prices before summer hits, and then in November during Black Friday which is your last chance of the year to buy a top-performing mattress for the cheapest price possible.
Where is the best place to buy a mattress?
Here are the best places to buy a mattress online and in store, based on our experience and research:
- Saatva
- Nectar
- Helix
- DreamCloud
- Amazon
- Mattress Firm
- GhostBed
- Bear Mattress
- Walmart
- WinkBeds
- Brooklyn Bedding
- Purple
- Casper
- Bed, Bath & Beyond
- Ashley Home Furniture
- Leesa Mattress
- Nolah Sleep
- Avocado Green
- Sleep Number
- Layla Mattress
The best place to buy a mattress is the one that’s most convenient for you. If you want the cheapest prices possible then buying online is worth considering because online-only mattress brands are able to sell their products much cheaply because they don’t have the cost of physical stores to factor into their MSRPs.
For example, the best mattress we’ve tested to date is the Saatva Classic luxury innerspring hybrid made from premium and natural materials. Buy it during a major holiday sale and you can get a queen size for $1,699 (MSRP $2,099) which is fiercely competitive compared to the cost of similar handcrafted luxury hybrid mattresses sold in a store.
Amazon has also increased its mattress game in the last year and is now one of the best places to shop for cheap prices on leading brands including Tempur-Pedic, Casper, Purple, Siena Mattress, Beautyrest, and Serta.
Many store-based third party retailers such as Mattress Firm, Walmart, and Ashley Home Furniture are becoming increasingly aggressive with their mattress sales pricing. We’ve seen them price-match many of the big online mattress brands during seasonal sales, but they are especially good at offering bargain basement prices on cheap mattresses by Serta, Zinus, Allswell Home, and Linenspa.
There’s also the question of customer service and guidance. If you’re happy doing the bulk of your mattress research yourself and using helpful expert mattress buying guides such as ours then you can save hundreds of dollars by buying a new mattress online. All of the best brands offer multiple forms of contact too, from customer service helplines to DMs, online chat bots, email and more.
If you prefer speaking to someone in person then clearly shopping in store is the better option for you. You also have the benefit of lying on the mattress first before purchasing it. Online companies address this by offering generous mattress trials ranging from 90 nights (Tempur-Pedic) to a year (Helix, Saatva, Nectar, DreamCloud, and others).
How often should you replace your mattress?
Sleep is one of the main pillars of our health and wellbeing and your mattress has a significant impact on how well you sleep. Lying on an unsupportive, sagging mattress night after night will cause neck and back pain, so you need to regularly check your mattress for signs that it needs replacing.
Assuming you’re sleeping on the best mattress for your sleep style, body weight and health needs, your mattress should be replaced every eight years on average. Cheaper mattresses need replacing more often at around three to six years depending on the build quality and materials. Premium mattresses and organic latex mattresses last longer – some up to 15 years.
As a general rule of thumb you should replace your mattress if one or more of the following conditions applies to you:
- Your mattress is at least six years old (four years if it’s a cheap model)
- You wake up with pain in the middle of the night
- You wake up in pain each morning but you don’t experience the same pain upon waking when sleeping away from home
- Your mattress is sagging, dipping or damaged
- It’s making more noise than usual (common among older innersprings)
- Your body weight has significantly changed and your once-comfy mattress feels too soft or too firm now
- Your allergies get worse as soon as you lie down to sleep
There are other factors that influence the lifespan of your mattress and we look at these in our feature on how long do mattresses last and how long do different types of mattresses last.
Learning how to clean a mattress properly can also help it last longer as a regular care and rotation routine will spread out general wear and tear.
What are the different types of mattress?
There are four main types of mattresses: memory foam, hybrid, innerspring, and latex. Each type comes with its own broad characteristics:
- Memory foam mattresses are popular for their affordability and body-hugging comfort. They also absorb movement well, making them a great choice for couples. However, dense foams can trap heat, and softer foams make for weak edges.
- Hybrid mattresses combine foam with springs. They're breathable and easy to move around on. Some designs incorporate stronger coils in the middle (for lumbar support) and/or around the perimeter (for sturdy edges). Since they use a greater variety of materials, hybrid mattresses tend to cost more than all-foam or innerspring beds.
- Innerspring mattresses are traditional coil-based mattresses. They're bouncy and provide plenty of airflow, but since they lack the foam layers of a hybrid, they're not very contouring. Innerspring beds are often budget-friendly choices, but luxury options are available, too.
- Latex mattresses are the most common type of organic mattress, using natural latex instead of synthetic foams and sometimes pairing it with springs. They have a buoyant, breathable surface with a more subtle hug than memory foam. Natural latex is extremely durable — and that's often reflected in the high cost of these beds.
Learn more about mattresses: Further resources
What is motion isolation?
Learn about this key mattress feature in our guide to motion isolation and why it's one of the most important features for bedsharing couples to consider when choosing a new mattress.
What is edge support?
We explain how edge support works in a mattress and how it can increase or shrink the available amount of sleep space you have, plus why it's vital for people who need extra help getting in and out of bed.
What is temperature regulation?
This is different to active cooling and is something we test every mattress for. Here our expert explains the role of temperature regulation in mattresses and why it matters for every sleeper – not just those prone to overheating.
What are comfort layers?
A handy guide to the comfort layers inside different types of mattresses and how they each help to cushion your body from the firmer layers in the base.
What are mattress covers?
Not to be confused with mattress protectors, this handy guide explains everything you need to know about the different types of mattress covers, the first layer you'll come into contact with why they're tmportant for hygiene and breathability.
What are mattress coils and springs?
Hybrid and innerspring mattresses are designed with different types of mattress coils and springs and this guide talks you through the different types and how they affect things such as pressure relief and motion isolation.
