- We spent over 1,000 hours researching and testing the top mattresses on the market and consulting with 21 sleep experts to compile our recommendations.
- Our testers evaluated over 100 models and recorded our findings on a 42-question standardized testing form to identify standout features and services, document issues with each product, and describe our personal experience lying on each mattress.
- We paid close attention to specific considerations that sleepers of all ages seek, as identified by respondents in our survey of 600 mattress owners. This included price, features, and the set-up process.
- We considered value for money as a core principle throughout our testing process. We assessed the quality, durability, and performance of each mattress relative to its price point to ensure we recommend the most cost-effective options for our readers seeking affordable mattresses.
Learn more about how we tested the best affordable mattresses.
Key takeaways
- The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is our pick for the best affordable mattress overall due to its versatility, high quality, and competitive price.
- Our team hand-tested 18 mattresses and narrowed down the field to the 7 most affordable mattresses that impressed us with their quality and comfort. We assessed factors like firmness, pressure relief, cooling, and edge support. Additionally, a survey of 600 mattress owners helped us understand what mattress shoppers want most.
- Affordable mattresses in this article range from $988 to $1,332, depending on size and brand. Here’s a tip: the best times to buy are around holidays like Black Friday and Memorial Day for potential promotions that could decrease the price by 20% to 50%.
Looking for the best affordable mattresses isn’t just about saving money. Experts recommend seven to nine hours of sleep per night for people between the ages of 18 and 64. But according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), only two-thirds of all adults in the United States report meeting that standard. Lack of sleep can interfere with one’s ability to learn, concentrate, and react appropriately in social situations.
The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute reports that sleep deficiency can even challenge your capacity to perceive and understand other people’s emotions and responses accurately. It can also contribute to feelings of frustration, irritability, or anxiety. This can create significant stress in your life, which not only affects your mental health but can impact your physical health as well. Insufficient sleep is tied to physical health problems like heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity.
Creating a comfortable sleep environment is essential for maximizing the quality and quantity of your sleep.
An uncomfortable or worn-out mattress can wreak havoc on your sleep. Joint pain from lack of support or feeling too hot from poor heat regulation can make falling and staying asleep a struggle. Ideally, you’d choose the perfect mattress, but the cost can often be a hurdle. That’s why we took the initiative to research and test 18 mattresses that met our standards for price, comfort, and quality. We then narrowed it down to the top seven most affordable options, catering to various sleeping styles. This way, you can find a mattress that addresses your comfort needs without breaking the bank.
Our picks for the best affordable mattresses
- Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid: Best mattress overall
- Emma Hybrid Comfort: Best hybrid mattress
- DreamCloud Memory Foam: Best memory foam mattress
- Bear Original: Best firm mattress
- The Nectar Memory Foam Mattress: Best for side sleepers
- Cocoon Chill Memory Foam: Best cooling mattress
- Titan Plus: Best for heavy people
What to look for when shopping for affordable mattresses
- Sales and promotions: Mattress prices can fluctuate throughout the year. Keep an eye out for sales around holidays like Labor Day, Memorial Day, and especially Black Friday and Cyber Monday, where retailers often offer their deepest discounts. Additionally, some brands may have promotions for teachers, military personnel, or first responders.
- Materials: Don’t get hung up on fancy brand names or luxurious materials. While high-end components can impact price, a well-constructed mattress made with good-quality materials can offer excellent comfort and support without the hefty price tag. Focus on finding a mattress construction that suits your sleep style. All-foam mattresses tend to be more affordable than hybrid or innerspring options.
- Firmness: Finding the right firmness level is crucial for proper sleep posture and preventing aches and pains. It all boils down to proper spinal alignment and pressure point relief. Back sleepers will benefit from a medium-firm mattress providing adequate back support and pressure point relief. Stomach sleepers need a firmer mattress to keep their spine aligned and prevent their hips from sinking in too much. Side sleepers should choose a softer mattress that contours to their curves and cushions pressure points on their shoulders and hips.
Best affordable mattress overall: Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
Why Brooklyn Bedding is our pick for best overall affordable mattress
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is our top choice for several reasons. Testers loved its balanced feel, which provides both pressure relief and support due to its individually encased coils and multiple foam layers. Its construction minimizes motion transfer, making it an excellent option for combination sleepers who change positions throughout the night. Additionally, the customizable firmness options (soft, medium, and firm) allow you to personalize your comfort level without breaking the bank.
Who should consider the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid: This mattress is ideal for combination sleepers, those seeking pressure relief and support, and anyone looking for a customizable and affordable option.
Who should consider other options: Those who strictly prefer a super plush or pillow-top feel may want to consider a mattress with a thicker comfort layer.
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid tester insights
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid has five layers of foam, springs, and quilted material, and comes in a box with an easy setup. Unlike mattresses with traditional spring coils connected to one another, this hybrid A type of mattress made with both foam layers and spring layers. uses coils that are individually encased to help isolate motion for targeted support.
We think this is a great affordable option for combination sleepers People who sleep in multiple positions throughout the night. For example, a person might be a back-and-side sleeper or a stomach-and-back sleeper. who change positions throughout the night because the mattress sinks just enough to cradle the body’s contours gently, but not so much that the sleeper feels like they have sunken into the memory foam.
From one of our Brooklyn Bedding testers
This mattress seems to have a great balance between support and pressure relief. It’s hard to have one because you tend to lose the other, but this seems to have found a balance.
Since comfort is specific to each person, we especially like that you can customize your mattress and choose from three different types of firmness options—soft, medium, and firm—at no additional cost. Our testers tried out the mattress with “medium” firmness.
You can also choose to add the Cloud Pillow Top, which can be sewn onto any Brooklyn Bedding mattress you order. The pillow top gives an extra 2-inch layer of contouring material made from cooling fibers.
Also making this a more affordable option, Brooklyn Bedding offers a 30 percent discount to members of the military, first responders, medical workers, educators, and students.
Best affordable hybrid mattress: Emma Hybrid Comfort
Why Emma Hybrid Comfort is our pick for best affordable hybrid mattress
The Emma Hybrid Comfort earns the top spot for the best affordable hybrid mattress due to its exceptional motion isolation and responsiveness. Thanks to its coil base and high-performing foams, couples and combination sleepers will appreciate minimal partner disturbance and ease of movement.
Who should consider the Emma Hybrid Comfort: Couples, combination sleepers, and hot sleepers seek a balance of comfort, support, and breathability.
Who should consider other options: Side sleepers who require extra pressure relief for their hips and shoulders might find this mattress a bit too firm.
Emma Hybrid Comfort tester insights
The Emma Hybrid Comfort uses a mix of Aircogell open-celled foam (a porous foam designed to store and retain heat as well as provide good air circulation) and coil support. Hybrid mattresses are often preferred by people who change positions throughout the night because the coils offer better bounce, providing greater ease of movement than all-foam alternatives. However, our testers found that they felt best supported when lying on their back or stomach and noted that side sleepers might need a bit more sink in the mattress to cushion their hips and shoulders.
This mattress incorporates a high-density transition layer that elevates the sleeper slightly “on top of” the mattress. Our testers found this layer collaborates with the coil structure to deliver substantial support, resulting in a firmer feel compared to other hybrid options.
We think this affordable mattress is a great choice for couples who sleep together and are sexually intimate. We gave the Emma Hybrid a five out of five rating for motion isolation, which means you probably won’t be disturbed if your partner moves throughout the night, and we gave it a 4.5 out of five for responsiveness Good responsiveness means the mattress has a bouncier surface that responds to pressure or the sleeper’s movements, making it easier to move around and switch positions. . Mattresses with high responsiveness scores are usually good choices for sex since they offer ease of movement. High responsiveness is also a good quality for people who change positions throughout the night for the same reason.
From one of our Emma Hybrid Comfort testers
This is a good bed for back and stomach sleepers, but since it doesn’t sink enough for the hips and shoulders, it’s probably not a great choice for side sleepers.
We found that the various types of foam used in the construction of this mattress give it a soft cradling feel when lying down, while the coils help the bed keep its shape and allow air to flow through the frame of the mattress. This hybrid combination, along with the temperature-regulating UltraDry mattress cover, was designed with breathability in mind for those who tend to sleep hot.
Best affordable memory foam mattress: DreamCloud Memory Foam
Why DreamCloud Memory Foam is our pick for best affordable memory foam mattress
DreamCloud Memory Foam takes the crown for the best affordable memory foam mattress due to its versatility and pressure relief. Testers raved about its comfortable medium-firm feel that caters to a variety of sleep positions. This mattress excels in motion isolation, minimizing partner disturbance for a good night’s sleep.
Who should consider the DreamCloud Memory Foam: Back sleepers, combination sleepers, and budget-minded couples seeking a comfortable, pressure-relieving memory foam mattress.
Who should consider other options: Side sleepers who prefer a very plush feel might find this mattress a bit too firm.
DreamCloud Memory Foam tester insights
The DreamCloud Memory Foam has seven layers of CertiPUR-US CertiPUR-US is a certification that shows the foam in the mattress has been crafted with no ozone depleters. foam with a cashmere-blend quilted cover. We like this mattress because it’s a true medium-firm mattress, and our testers found it comfortable in a variety of sleeping positions. The material’s responsiveness also made it easy to move around and change positions. This mattress gets a 4.5 out of five for pressure relief, making it ideal for sleepers with back pain.
From one of our DreamCloud Memory Foam testers
“There was some delay for the mattress to regain its shape after I moved, but it was easy to roll out of the small divot my body created.”
If you’re looking for a memory foam mattress that guards you from being woken by your partner’s movements or a pet jumping onto the bed, we gave DreamCloud a five out of five on our motion isolation scale.
Like many other mattress companies, DreamCloud offers promotions that run around holidays or during different seasons. If you want to buy a DreamCloud mattress outside of a promotional period, the company offers a 30 percent discount for military personnel, health care professionals, and first responders.
Learn more in our DreamCloud mattress review.
Best affordable firm mattress: Bear Original
Why Bear Original is our pick for best affordable firm mattress
Stomach sleepers and hot sleepers on a tight budget will benefit from the Bear Original mattress. This affordable pick boasts a firm, three-layer memory foam construction that provides excellent spinal alignment for stomach sleepers and keeps them from sinking in too deeply. The breathable Tencel cover with cooling gel memory foam helps regulate temperature, making it a good option for those who tend to sleep hot.
Who should consider the Bear Original: Stomach sleepers, hot sleepers, and budget-conscious shoppers seeking a firm mattress.
Who should consider other options: Side sleepers and those who prefer a softer, plusher feel might find this mattress too firm.
Bear Original tester insights
The Bear Original mattress is a firm, three-layer memory foam mattress that comes in a Tencel A brand of sustainable cellulose fiber made from wood pulp, which is used in clothing, footwear, home linens, carpets, mattresses, and pillows because it’s highly breathable, hygienic, and comfortable. cover. The combination of moisture-wicking Tencel and the cooling gel memory foam layer makes this a possible choice for hot sleepers.
This mattress holds its shape well and offers light contouring, making it a great choice for those who prefer a firmer bed. Our testers think this is the best fit for stomach sleepers because the firmness level keeps their hips from sinking into the mattress and maintains spinal alignment.
While our testers gave Bear a rating of 3.5 out of five for cooling, we also think the Tencel cover makes this a great mattress for those with sensitive skin. It’s moisture-wicking, breathable, and static-resistant, which prevents dust and other allergens from clinging to the material.
From one of our Bear Original testers
“When lying on the mattress I felt slightly cradled by the first layer of thin memory foam, but then I was met with a firm surface underneath.”
When testing the movement isolation of this mattress, our tester noted they barely felt movement even when someone was jumping up and down on the other side of the mattress. We think this makes the Bear Original mattress a strong choice for people with pets who get on and off the bed throughout the night or whose sleeping partner tends to toss and turn.
Bear offers a 40 percent discount for military personnel, teachers, first responders, and health care workers, making the mattress even more affordable.
Learn more in our Bear Mattress Review.
Best affordable firm mattress: The Nectar
Why The Nectar is our pick for best affordable mattress for side sleepers
Side sleepers seeking a balance of comfort and support will love the Nectar mattress. This all-foam mattress offers a soft yet surprisingly supportive feel that keeps your spine aligned throughout the night. Testers were impressed by its pressure relief, particularly for side sleeping.
Who should consider The Nectar mattress: Side sleepers who prioritize pressure relief, comfort, and a great warranty.
Who should consider other options: Stomach sleepers may find the Nectar too soft, causing discomfort in their hips and neck.
The Nectar tester insights
The Nectar is a 100 percent foam mattress with five layers of material, including CertiPUR-US certified foams. Our tester felt like this mattress was soft but still helped keep her spine aligned while lying on her side and back, which can be a hard middle ground to find with a mattress that’s on the softer side. We scored this mattress a 4.25 out of five for pressure relief while in a side-sleeping position.
But as with other mattresses that are considered soft, we don’t think The Nectar is a great fit for stomach sleepers. It still keeps the body in a neutral position, but because of the sinkage, it can make the head and neck feel uncomfortable.
From one of our Nectar testers
“My spine feels neutral when lying on my side. It’s also supporting my midsection well. My hips and shoulders are sinking into the mattress, but in a good way. I don’t feel crunched to one side.”
The cover is made of breathable and cooling material that can technically be removed and gently washed. However, if you choose to take off the cover, you should know that doing so will void all warranties. Instead, Nectar recommends spot-cleaning the cover.
Despite the cover removal policy, we think the forever warranty Nectar offers is one of the best. If there’s a defect during the first 10 years of owning your mattress, Nectar will replace it for free. After 10 years, Nectar will completely repair and re-cover your mattress or replace it for a $50 fee. If Nectar finds there is a defect when you return the mattress for replacement or repair, they’ll waive the $50 fee.
Read more in our Nectar mattress review.
Best affordable cooling mattress: Cocoon Chill Memory Foam
Why The Cocoon Chill Memory Foam is our pick for best affordable cooling mattress
The Cocoon Chill Memory Foam takes the crown for the best affordable cooling mattress. Unlike many memory foam mattresses that trap heat, the Cocoon Chill’s unique cover featuring phase-change materials effectively draws away body heat, creating a noticeably cooler sleep experience. This, combined with its motion isolation properties, makes it ideal for couples who tend to sleep hot together.
Who should consider The Cocoon Chill Memory Foam mattress: Hot sleepers, couples seeking a cool and comfortable sleep experience, and back sleepers with lighter body frames.
Who should consider other options: Heavier sleepers who prefer a bouncier mattress might find the all-foam construction a bit too soft.
Cocoon Chill Memory Foam tester insights
The Cocoon Chill mattress is a three-layer, all-foam mattress made by well-known mattress manufacturer Sealy. We chose this as the top affordable cooling mattress because its cover is made of a stretch-knit fabric interwoven with phase change materials A substance that changes its phase (or matter state) depending on its temperature. It will store or release heat to keep a constant temperature. . This high-tech fabric actively absorbs and disperses body heat, which gives the mattress an exceptionally cool sensation. Many mattress manufacturers market their mattresses as having cooling technology, but it’s rarely as effective as advertised, while memory foam is known for holding onto heat. However, we found that the Cocoon Chill was successfully cool.
From one of our Cocoon Chill testers
“True to its name, the Cocoon Chill offers the rare experience in a cooling all-foam mattress, while also providing spinal alignment and little sinkage.”
The cooling effects of this mattress make it a clear choice for someone who is a hot sleeper, but we think this mattress is also an ideal choice for couples. First, the responsive foam layer helps isolate motion and ensures minimal disturbance from your partner’s movements during the night. We rated this mattress a 4.5 out of five when we tested its motion isolation properties. Second, its cooling cover makes it particularly beneficial for two sleepers, since a shared sleeping space tends to run warmer from combined body heat.
Overheating in bed is highly disruptive because the brain can’t easily initiate or maintain sleep when our core body temperature is too high. Night sweating may cause chills as the sweat cools down our skin, which may make sleepers uncomfortable and restless.
Chelsie Rohrscheib, head sleep expert and neuroscientist at Wesper in New York City
One tester, who’s lightweight with a small frame, felt like the mattress gave good pressure relief, specifically when lying on their back. The pressure map also supports this, radiating blue (low pressure) instead of red (high pressure). The thick top layer of memory foam on this Cocoon Chill will hug you while sleeping, but since it’s constructed with all memory foam, it has little to no bounce, which might be difficult for higher-weight sleepers.
Best affordable mattress for heavy people: Titan Plus
Why The Titan Plus is our pick for best affordable mattress for heavy people
The Titan Plus by Brooklyn Bedding stands out as our top pick for heavy sleepers due to its exceptional construction. This hybrid mattress features heavy-duty, individually encased steel coils that prevent sagging and distribute weight evenly, ideal for those over 250 pounds. Testers loved how the Titan Plus offered excellent pressure relief and even weight distribution.
Who should consider the Titan Plus mattress: Heavy sleepers over 250 pounds who prioritize durability, support, and pressure relief.
Who should consider other options: Lightweight sleepers under 130 pounds may not find this mattress plush enough.
Titan Plus User Insights
The Titan Plus by Brooklyn Bedding is a five-layer hybrid mattress specially designed for higher-weight people. What really makes this mattress a great choice for heavy sleepers is the thoughtful construction that was built for durability and comfort. The TitanCore coils are made of steel to prevent sagging and are individually encased to keep motion isolated.
Since the structure of the mattress is built to support heavier weight and prevent sag, this mattress is recommended for sleepers who weigh over 250 pounds. It’s possible that the Titan Plus can also offer comfort to average-weight sleepers, particularly those who sleep on their back or stomach. However, lightweight individuals weighing 130 pounds or less may not be able to compress the layers enough to achieve contouring or pressure relief.
From one of our Titan Plus testers
“While there might be a little sinkage for heavier sleepers, overall, we found our weight was evenly distributed and comfortable.”
We love that Brooklyn Bedding created a bed specifically for heavier people, since many mattresses don’t provide enough internal structure to properly support sleepers over 250 pounds. One tester noted that the mattress slept on the warmer side, but those who generally sleep hot can add a Glaciotex cooling cover to balance out that temperature.
Since Titan is made by Brooklyn Bedding, it comes with a 30 percent discount for military, first responders, medical workers, educators, and students.
How we test and choose the best affordable mattresses
A good night’s sleep is foundational to our overall well-being. When we’re sleep-deprived, our mental and physical health can suffer. That’s why finding a comfortable and supportive mattress that fits your budget is an investment worth making. To help you navigate the world of affordable mattresses, we’ve done the legwork for you. We meticulously researched over 100+ different mattress models and surveyed over 600 mattress owners to identify the best options that won’t break the bank. Here’s how we sifted through the options and picked the perfect affordable mattress for various sleep styles and needs.
First-hand testing experience
Our testers aren’t afraid to get comfy – they personally evaluate each mattress for a comprehensive picture. This includes assessing firmness, pressure relief, and edge support (important for sprawling sleepers!). We also use specialized tools to measure cooling effectiveness – temperature guns track surface temperature changes, and fancy pressure maps reveal how well the mattress distributes your weight. To truly understand motion transfer, we have testers mimic real-life scenarios (think restless partners or enthusiastic pets) and measure how much movement is felt across the surface. No stone (or comfort layer) is left unturned in our quest to find the best affordable mattress for every sleep style.
Mattress surveys & interviews
To guide our selection of the best affordable mattresses, we delved deep into the priorities of mattress shoppers. Our survey of 600 real people went beyond just their sleep styles! We explored the features that mattered most, from budget concerns to specific comfort needs. Understanding how price, desired characteristics, and even the ease of setup factored into their decisions helped us narrow down the options. We also complemented the survey data with in-depth interviews. Hearing firsthand why people replace their mattresses and the positive impact a new one can have on their sleep was invaluable in creating this well-rounded selection.
Objective and honest ratings
Thanks to the valuable insights from our 600-person survey and in-depth interviews, we were able to pinpoint the most critical features you seek in an affordable mattress. These features formed the foundation of our comprehensive mattress scorecard, ensuring each reviewed model prioritizes your sleep needs and budget.
Every mattress in this roundup scored a minimum of 8.7/10 on our overall rating, ensuring a baseline level of quality and value. However, prioritizing holistic health means understanding that everyone has unique sleep needs. This scorecard empowers you to find the mattress that best suits your individual sleep style and budget.
| Factor | Weight | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Customer Service | 15% | Customer care center hours, support options |
| Brand Reputation | 10% | Years in business, lawsuits & class actions against this company |
| Features | 20% | Size options, firmness options, weight capacity, add-ons included (free sleep accessories) |
| User Experience | 35% | White glove delivery, CERTIPUR-US certifications, risk-free trials |
| Affordability | 20% | Price, warranty, promotions |
Learn more about our affordable mattress testing and review methodology.
Our affordable mattress testing process
Purchase mattress as mystery shoppers.
Set up mattress in testing lab.
Lie on mattress and rank firmness.
Lie on back, side, and stomach to find the best sleeping position.
Place 10-pound ball in mattress center and measure sinkage.
Find biggest pressure points using pressure map reading.
Evaluate cooling capabilities by recording temperature differences.
Drop 10-pound ball onto mattress to measure bounce score.
Test motion isolation.
Test edge support.
Calculate composite “sex” and “family” scores.
How to choose a mattress for a good night’s sleep
A good night’s sleep is the cornerstone of our well-being. When we’re sleep-deprived, our mental and physical health can suffer, impacting everything from our mood and focus to our immune system function.
People’s sleeping positions and surfaces can significantly impact pain. An improper sleeping position or a mattress that is too firm or soft can put added pressure on certain areas, leading to pain and discomfort. Other factors to consider include the pillow’s height and type, as well as the quality of the mattress.
Peter Hinz, doctor of chiropractic at Cool Springs Chiropractic in Franklin, Tennessee
That’s why choosing the right mattress – a decision that impacts your sleep quality for years to come – is an investment worth getting right. But with countless options on the market, navigating the mattress world can feel overwhelming. We’ve created this guide to help you identify the key factors to consider when selecting a mattress that perfectly complements your sleep style and budget.
Material
The material your mattress is made of significantly impacts its feel, support, and temperature regulation. Let’s explore the most common mattress types to help you find your perfect match:
- Innerspring: Traditional innerspring mattresses utilize coils for support, offering a bouncy and familiar feel. See our full innerspring mattress guide.
- Memory foam: Known for its pressure-relieving properties, memory foam conforms to your body shape for a plush, cradling sensation. See our full memory foam mattress guide.
- Hybrid: Combining innerspring coils with comfort layers like foam or latex, hybrid mattresses offer a balance of support and pressure relief. See our full hybrid mattress guide.
- Latex: Naturally derived from rubber trees, latex offers a responsive and bouncy feel with good cooling properties. See our full latex mattress guide.
- Organic: Organic mattresses prioritize eco-friendly materials like natural latex and organic cotton. See our full organic mattress guide.
Sleeping position
Your sleep position plays a significant role in mattress selection. Different positions require varying levels of support and pressure relief to keep your spine aligned throughout the night. Here’s a quick rundown on sleep position and what to look for in your next mattress:
- Stomach sleepers: Stomach sleepers need a firmer mattress to prevent their hips from sinking out of alignment. See our full stomach sleeper mattress guide.
- Side sleepers: Side sleepers benefit from a plusher mattress that cradles their curves and alleviates pressure points on the shoulders and hips. See our full side sleeper mattress guide.
- Back sleepers: Back sleepers can enjoy a wider range of firmness options, but a mattress with good lumbar support is key. See our full back sleeper mattress guide.
Sleeper’s body
Your body type is another key player in mattress selection, for example:
- Weight: Heavier sleepers generally require a firmer mattress with more robust coils for added support and to prevent sagging over time. See our full mattresses for heavy sleepers guide.
- Age: Younger kids require a softer mattress, as they don’t weigh enough to press down on firmer mattresses. See our full mattresses for kids guide.
- Health conditions: Certain health conditions like back pain or hip pain can benefit from targeted mattress features. See our full guides on mattresses for back pain and mattresses for hip pain.
Temperature
Your mattress can significantly impact your sleep temperature. Hot sleepers may toss and turn all night on a mattress that traps heat, while those who tend to run cold might crave a warmer sleep surface. Check out our guide to the best cooling mattresses for expert tips and product recommendations to beat the night sweats.
Price
Mattresses can range in price from around $500 to over $3,000, depending on the size, materials, and brand. The best luxury mattress tends to have more bells and whistles, but the best affordable mattress should still be more than comfortable.
Factors that determine mattress cost
Brand Name
Brand recognition can significantly influence price. Established luxury brands often charge a premium for their reputation and heritage.
Construction
The materials used in your mattress play a major role in cost. Innerspring mattresses tend to be more affordable, while luxury materials like organic latex or gel-infused memory foam typically raise the price tag. The complexity of the construction, like multiple support layers or intricate quilting, can also factor in.
Features
Mattresses with advanced features like zoned support systems, built-in cooling technology, or adjustable bases will naturally cost more than their basic counterparts.
Mattress size
Quite simply, the larger the mattress, the more materials are required, and consequently, the higher the price. A king-size mattress will naturally cost more than a twin-size. If you purchase your mattress online, larger mattresses will typically have a higher shipping cost, too.
Our final verdict
After meticulously testing dozens of mattresses and analyzing survey data from 600 real sleepers, we’ve crowned the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid as our overall pick for the best affordable mattress. It delivers exceptional value, offering a luxurious feel and impressive pressure relief at a price point that won’t break the bank.
However, the right mattress for your needs depends on many factors, so we included many affordable mattresses that ranked well in our testing. For instance, those who value a mattress with high motion isolation may prefer the Emma Hybrid Comfort, while those who change positions often during the night may need the responsiveness of the DreamCloud Memory Foam mattress.
Our goal is to give you the information you need to make the right decision when purchasing a mattress. By providing you with a comprehensive list of features and benefits from top affordable mattresses, we hope to help you choose the best mattress for you.
Compare the best affordable mattresses of 2024
| Price | $665–$1,599 | $739–$1,499 | $839–$2,178 | $786–$1,690 | $699–$1,798 | $619–$1,389 | $699–$1,499 |
| Firmness | 6/10 | 7.5/10 | 6.5/10 | 8/10 | 6.5/10 | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Material | Hybrid | Hybrid | Memory foam | Memory foam | Memory foam | Memory foam | Hybrid |
| Warranty | 10 years | 10 years | Lifetime | Lifetime | Lifetime | 10 years | 10 years |
| Trial period | 120 nights | 365 nights | 365 nights | 120 nights | 365 nights | 100 nights | 120 nights |
| Best for | All sleeping positions | Back and stomach sleepers | All sleeping positions | Stomach sleepers | Back and side sleepers | All sleeping positions | All sleeping positions |
Frequently asked questions
Yes, there are many mattresses that are less expensive and also offer high-end comfort. For example, our testers thought the Brooklyn Bedding Hybrid mattress was one of the most comfortable mattresses, and a queen-size mattress costs less than $1,000.
When choosing a mattress, the most expensive options and materials aren’t always better. While premium materials might be a better choice for one type of sleeper, there isn’t a rule that all luxury materials and brands are best for everyone. Instead, focus more on finding a mattress with the best construction for your sleep style.
The best time to buy a mattress is around the end of the year or generally around any major holidays. The end of the year is packed with holidays and special sales events, from Thanksgiving and Black Friday through New Year’s Eve, so expect to find many sales and inventory discounts around that time. In February, the weekend leading into Presidents’ Day is also traditionally the time when many mattress sellers offer big discounts.
How much you should spend on a mattress depends on the material and size of the mattress. The retail cost of the mattresses on this list ranges between $998–$1,332 for a queen-size all-foam or hybrid made of foam and coil. With promotions, the price could decrease anywhere from 20–50 percent.
Mattresses made of all-foam materials tend to be less expensive than hybrid materials (foam and coil) or all-innerspring mattresses. This is because foam is generally a cheaper material.
The rule of thumb is typically around seven to 10 years. But rather than focus on a set period of time, consider replacing your mattress if:
- You’ve noticed that your quality of sleep has recently decreased.
- The mattress you have now is sagging, damaged, or has lost support over time.
- You find yourself sleeping better in other beds.
- You wake up not feeling refreshed, or you wake up with stiffness in your back, neck, or limbs.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Sleep and sleep disorders: Adults. (2022, November 2). Link
- National Sleep Foundation. How much sleep do you really need? (2020, October 1). Link
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. Sleep deprivation and deficiency. (2022, March 2). Link
- Scott, A.J., Webb, T.L., Martyn-St James, M., Rowse, G., & Weich, S. (2021). Improving sleep quality leads to better mental health: A meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. Sleep Medicine Reviews, 60, 101556. Link