- We spent more than 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 about 130 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 two surveys of 1,200 mattress owners total (one targeting general customers and one targeting higher-weight sleepers). This included price, features, and the setup process.
- We narrowed our list of the best mattresses by scoring brands’ services, reputation, and offers alongside specific models and their comfort features.
- Learn more about how we test the best mattresses in 2024.
Key takeaways
- The Helix Midnight Luxe is our top pick for best mattress overall because its hybrid design has the right cushion and support to accommodate all sleep positions and evening activities, like unwinding with a book before bed.
- Based on more than 1,000 hours of testing and our two surveys of 1,200 mattress owners total, the best mattresses offer good pressure relief, temperature-regulating materials, noticeable lumbar support, and the right firmness or material for their preferred sleep position and body type.
- The best mattresses in 2024 can cost between $600–$3,000 or more, depending on brand, size, and materials.
Your mental and physical health depends on consistently sleeping well. Creating a comfortable sleep environment, including using the right mattress, can help ensure you get the rest you need.
While finding the best mattress isn’t always easy, it’s worth putting in the time and effort. In our survey of 600 mattress owners, we found that more than 60 percent chose to purchase a new mattress to improve comfort, pain relief, and overall sleep quality. After sleeping on their new mattress, more than 73 percent reported improved sleep.
We spent more than 1,000 hours researching and testing the top mattresses on the market and consulting with 21 sleep experts to compile our recommendations. If you’re looking to improve your sleep with a new mattress, we want you to make an informed decision and choose what’s truly best for you. Here are our picks for the best mattresses.
Our pick of the best mattresses
- Helix Midnight Luxe: Best overall
- Nectar Premier: Best mattress for side sleepers
- Saatva Classic: Best for back sleepers
- DreamCloud Memory Foam: Best memory foam mattress
- Saatva Rx: Best mattress for back pain
- The WinkBed: Best hybrid mattress
- Bear Original: Best firm mattress
- Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid: Best affordable mattress
Best mattress overall: Helix Midnight Luxe
Why we chose the Helix Midnight as the best mattress overall
The Helix Midnight Luxe mattress is the best overall because its hybrid design has the right cushion and support to accommodate all sleep positions. It also comfortably supports daily bedroom activities, like lounging in bed with a partner or playing with your dog in the morning, without uncomfortable sagging.
Who may like Helix Midnight Luxe: Lower-weight (less than 130 pounds) and average-weight (130–250 pounds) side, back, and stomach sleepers who want a supportive yet pressure-relieving mattress. Combination sleepers may also like this bed, although the pillow top adds resistance as you reposition.
Who may want to avoid Helix Midnight Luxe: Higher-weight sleepers may need a firmer or more supportive bed.
Alternative to Helix Midnight Luxe for higher-weight sleepers
Since the Helix Midnight Luxe may feel too soft or unsupportive for higher-weight sleepers, we recommend the Helix Plus or Titan Plus instead. These alternatives are designed specifically for higher-weight sleepers who need a firmer, more durable option. Read our review of the best mattresses for heavy people for more recommendations.
Helix Midnight Luxe tester insights
We love the Helix Midnight Luxe for its balanced feel. Its upper foam layers offer contouring pressure relief, while the lower innerspring layer provides reinforcing support. We cut open the model we tested to see the layers for ourselves (see below).
Testers agreed that the medium firmness Brands rate their mattress’s firmness on a scale from one to 10, with 10 being the firmest. and hybrid A type of mattress made with foam layers and spring layers. composition are most comfortable during side and back sleeping, and this was supported by their pressure map Our team used a pressure map to determine how well the mattress dissipates force and redistributes weight. results. The Helix Midnight Luxe reinforces our testers’ spines and dissipates sharp pressure points (like the shoulder and hip). Combination sleepers may also like this bed because it’s responsive, but you may feel sunken on the pillow top, making it slightly harder to reposition than firmer beds.
From one of our Helix testers
“I’m impressed with how stable I feel sitting on and lying on the edge, especially for a mattress with such a plushy top.”
But mattresses aren’t only used for sleep. Our team assesses a family subscore to determine how well a mattress can accommodate everyday life at home. A good mix of surface support, edge support Edge support is the bed’s strength and stability around the perimeter. , cooling, and motion isolation The containment of movement on one area of a mattress so it doesn’t impact other areas. will result in a good family score. Fortunately, the Helix Midnight Luxe scored well (4 out of 5). You should be able to sit and read or lounge with your partner and a pet comfortably on this bed. When our testers sit on random spots on the mattress, the Helix Midnight Luxe does not dip toward the center or edges. The pillow top provides sinkage While some softer mattresses offer good contouring sinkage, sinkage is also a result of wear and tear. Foam materials especially sink over time, resulting in a sagging feeling, which provides less support. , but weight distributes well across the mattress, making it comfortable for everyday life.
The only thing our testers don’t like about this mattress is the lack of motion isolation, which slightly impacts the family subscore. Movements ripple across the bed easily. If a cat jumps on the bed in the morning, it’ll likely wake you up. Additionally, an early riser may disturb their sleeping partner.
Learn why we chose the Helix Midnight Luxe as the best luxury mattress, or read our Helix review for more information about the base model (Helix Midnight).
Best for side sleepers: Nectar Premier
Why we chose the Nectar Premier as the best mattress for side sleepers
The Nectar Premier offers an all-foam design that contours the shoulder and hip while supporting your midsection for a more comfortable, neutral spine position as you lie on your side.
Who may like Nectar Premier: Lower-weight (less than 130 pounds) and average-weight (130–250 pounds) sleepers should like this mattress in any position, particularly side sleeping (and back sleeping).
Who may want to avoid Nectar Premier: Higher-weight (more than 250 pounds) sleepers may like this bed for side sleeping, but it may lack support compared to other, better options listed in the next section.
Alternative to Nectar Premier higher-weight sleepers
Although the Nectar Premier may accommodate some higher-weight sleepers, it’s not the most supportive or durable option. We found the DreamCloud Memory Foam is a great alternative because its denser foam is more supportive for higher weights and will better resist sagging. Our team also recommends the Titan Plus or the Titan Plus Luxe as hybrid alternatives because the coil layers offer more reinforcement while relieving pressure at the shoulder and hip.
Nectar Premier tester insights
Side sleepers should love the Nectar Premier because it’s on the soft side, offers pressure relief at the hip and shoulder, and supports our midsection from sagging into the mattress. Nectar can be pricey but runs frequent promotions that drop prices by several hundred dollars.
Although Nectar rates this mattress’s firmness as medium (6.5 out of 10), our team rates it slightly softer at 5.5 out of 10 due to its forgiving memory foam layers on top. Pressure map testing revealed that it’s among the best mattresses for pressure relief at the hip and shoulder, allowing a moderate amount of sinkage to gently “hug” the body.
Although foam is notoriously heat-trapping, our testers think it regulates body temperature well. When lying on the bed for five minutes, our testers have felt a small amount of heat buildup—the surface temperature has only increased by about two degrees. This is a great result and may be due to the sinkage A substance that changes its phase (or matter state) depending on its temperature. It will store or release heat to keep a constant temperature. in the upper foam layers, which is specifically designed to dissipate heat.
From one of our Nectar testers
“The Nectar Premier mattress is great for side sleeping, but if you switch sides throughout the night, it takes a little more effort than hybrids because you have to lift yourself out of the material as you move. But this bed allows little to no motion transfer, making it a great option for light-sleeping couples or families who allow pets on the bed.”
To learn more, read our in-depth Nectar mattress review.
Best for back sleepers: Saatva Classic
Why we chose the Saatva Classic as the best mattress for back sleepers
The Saatva Classic is great for back sleepers because of its zoned lumbar support, which provides reinforcement at the lower back for a more comfortable sleep. While we enjoy the luxury firm (medium) firmness level, we appreciate how Saatva offers softer or firmer comfort levels to accommodate other sleep preferences.
Who may like Saatva Classic: Back sleepers of any weight should feel pressure relief from the mattress’s reinforced lumbar support.
Who may want to avoid Saatva Classic: Lighter-weight (less than 130 pounds) side sleepers may find the mattress too firm.
Saatva Classic tester insights
The luxury firm Saatva Classic is an innerspring-hybrid mattress with a firm feel, just slightly above true medium at 7 out of 10 on the firmness scale. Our testers find this mattress comfortable in every position, but it stands out as a supportive choice for back sleepers due to its zoned lumbar support.
Unlike traditional innersprings that often feel unconforming, the Saatva Classic uses a targeted foam layer and stronger coils across the middle of the mattress to reinforce the lower back and keep the spine neutral throughout the night. Targeted support also helps distribute weight across the bed evenly, so our testers don’t feel excessive pressure buildup across the hips or shoulders. We also like the three-inch sinkage A kind of pillow top that’s sewn into the cover of the mattress. This style is flush with the edges of the mattress, providing better support than your typical pillow-top mattress while also offering a soft, plushy center. , which provides more cushion for those who switch between their back and side.
From one of our Saatva testers
“I’m 5 feet and 3 inches tall, so I’m on the shorter side. I needed to scoot down the mattress to make sure the lumbar support hit my lower back, not my butt. I also felt comfortable in side-lying because it supported my torso, but I think I would’ve been more comfortable with the plush soft comfort level option to offload pressure from my shoulder.”
We also recommend Saatva because of its commitment to the customer. After researching more than 40 brands in the industry, Saatva is the only one that provides its customers with free white glove delivery, a one-year trial period, and a lifetime limited warranty for all its mattresses.
To learn more, read our in-depth Saatva mattress review.
Best memory foam mattress: DreamCloud Memory Foam
Why we chose the DreamCloud as the best memory foam mattress
The DreamCloud Memory Foam mattress outperforms other foam mattresses in pressure relief, support, motion isolation, edge support, and cooling. All testers agree it feels comfortable in all sleep positions, so if you have a partner who sleeps differently from you, this is a great choice.
Who may like DreamCloud Memory Foam: Back, stomach, and combination sleepers of any body type should feel comfortable and supported on this bed.
Who may want to avoid DreamCloud Memory Foam: Lighter-weight (less than 130 pounds) side sleepers may find the mattress too firm due to its dense foam.
DreamCloud Memory Foam tester insights
DreamCloud’s CertiPUR-US certified CertiPUR-US is a certification that shows the foam in the mattress has been crafted with no ozone depleters. memory foam mattress outperforms other foam mattresses in multiple criteria, but the most impressive is its support. This mattress contours our curves well to relieve pressure, but we weren’t expecting the foam to push back into our bodies at the midsection and lower back, supporting our spines the way coils do. This is an important consideration because nearly half of 600 survey respondents with a memory foam mattress list adequate support as the main deciding factor during their search.
From one of our DreamCloud testers
“I don’t typically like all-foam mattresses because I don’t like feeling enveloped in my sleeping surface. I know some people love that feeling. But I change positions throughout the night, which isn’t easy when sleeping in a divot. I like how this mattress felt different than other foam mattresses. I didn’t feel like my whole body was falling into a deep hole, but I felt cradled, which was nice.”
The motion isolation is also impressive. Foam is expected to dampen movement better than the bouncy coils in innersprings and hybrids. But this mattress exceeds our expectations with a 5 out of 5 score, outperforming most other mattresses in its ability to isolate consistent movement from the other side of the bed. When our testers crawl and jump across the mattress, we barely feel their movement. So if you have a restless partner or cuddly pet whose movements disturb your sleep, consider the DreamCloud Memory Foam mattress a top contender.
Read more in our DreamCloud mattress review.
Best mattress for back pain: Saatva Rx
Why we chose the Saatva Rx as the best mattress for back pain
The Saatva Rx is a 15-inch-thick hybrid mattress created specifically to support people with back pain. We appreciate how Saatva intentionally designed this comfortable mattress with forgiving yet responsive components. It’s a great option for people who need relief during sleep and may need help moving around in bed. Plus, we found it comfortable for any sleep position.
Who may like Saatva Rx: This bed will conform to any body type or sleep position but is ideal for back sleepers of all body types or any average-weight (130–250 pounds) person.
Who may want to avoid Saatva Rx: People on a budget may want to find a less expensive option that works for their back pain.
Saatva Rx tester insights
If you have chronic back pain, research shows that prioritizing sleep is key to recovery because it may help to decrease your pain perception and regulate inflammation. But getting better sleep is easier said than done, especially if back pain makes it hard to relax. According to our 600-person survey of general mattress customers, more than 82 percent of those with back pain reported improved sleep after switching to a better mattress, and about 55 percent reported improved mental health as a result. However, it’s a good idea to talk to a health care professional before purchasing a mattress for back pain to ensure it fits your treatment plan.
Speak to your doctor or a physical therapist about the best mattress options before making a selection. Together, you’ll identify what type of mattress you’ll need to improve your back pain while being comfortable enough to sleep soundly.
Chelsie Rohrscheib, sleep expert and neuroscientist at Wesper in New York City, New York.
The Saatva Rx is our pick as the best mattress for people with lower back pain because it’s designed to conform to your body’s curves, reinforce a neutral spine position, and respond to your movement. It’s also a medium-firm feel, which research supports as the best firmness level to improve discomfort and sleep quality in those with general back pain.
Similar to the Saatva Classic, we love how this mattress offers zoned lumbar support using a targeted foam layer along the middle of the mattress. One small study also suggests that a zoned mattress design may help to promote better sleep and potentially reduce discomfort. But what makes this mattress better suited for people with back pain is its foam-capped spring layer (dubbed the Therapeutic Support Core), which offers cushioned relief without more heat-trapping foam layers. We’re also impressed with how well the mattress isolates motion despite having such a thick spring layer, so the pocketed coil design does its job well.
From one of our Saatva testers
“This mattress was very comfortable in all sleep positions. It might be a little too firm for lower-weight people who sleep on their side (if I’m being nitpicky), but overall offers good pressure relief. It’s also surprisingly supportive at the hips for light and average-sized stomach sleepers.”
One of our testers, a physical therapist who treats patients with lower back pain, advises that mobility can be difficult on a wobbly mattress. So, we appreciate how Saatva designed this mattress with enough responsiveness and edge support to help you move as easily as possible. Other testers note the surface is responsive to movement without much sinkage, so you don’t have to fight plush layers to get up in the morning.
We also appreciate how safe the edges feel, so you won’t feel like you’re falling off as you push up to a seated position. Unfortunately, the Saatva Rx does lose some of its height through the thick plush cover when you sit on its edge. But the sturdy coils underneath offer enough reinforcement and bounce to boost your movement, which makes up for the height loss.
To learn more, read our in-depth Saatva mattress review.
Best hybrid mattress: The WinkBed
Why we chose The WinkBed as the best hybrid mattress
The WinkBed luxury firm mattress is one of the most comfortable hybrid mattresses we’ve tested. It has a responsive pocketed coil layer that supports our spine position while we lie on our back or side, and it has the right amount of foam to isolate motion and relieve pressure without feeling stuck.
Who may like The WinkBed: Back, side, or combination sleepers of any body type.
Who may want to avoid The WinkBed: Some stomach sleepers, especially higher-weight (more than 250 pounds) sleepers, may want more support from their mattress to avoid sinking into the Euro top.
The WinkBed tester insights
We love how comfortable the luxury firm (medium) model of The WinkBed is. The plush Euro top surface cradles our curves just enough to reveal little to no force buildup in our pressure mapping system, particularly while lying on our backs. The mattress adjusts with us when we switch positions due to the responsive and supportive pocketed coil layer underneath.
The WinkBed also gets our top pick for the best hybrid mattress because it scores highly in our family subscore (4.5 out of 5). A mattress is best suited for families with adequate surface support, edge support, cooling, and motion isolation to accommodate a pet or toddler jumping into bed with you. Despite The Winkbed having decent bounce, its motion isolation outscores other hybrids because we barely feel partners rolling a 10-pound ball and crawling around on the bed.
From one of our WinkBed testers
“I like how cool the mattress felt lying side-by-side with fellow testers. If I slept with my husband and cat next to me, I’d remain comfortable. I also felt safe close to the edge. Compared to a mattress with poor edge support, I have more surface area to use before kicking my cat—or husband—out of bed and reclaiming some territory.”
Our team also tested mattresses for sex compatibility by assessing how easily we could bounce kneeling while keeping a rhythm. This mattress scored higher than other hybrids because its thick layer of coils provides a decent bounce. Coils also allow more airflow to keep the surface cool. However, we noticed it requires more work to keep a consistent bouncing rhythm through the movement-dampening foam layers. Innerspring-dominant mattresses with firmer coils (like the Saatva Classic) assist movement better, but you’d have to sacrifice motion isolation.
![Hand running through the layers of WinkBed’s hybrid composition]](https://d1xpftaradk20j.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/WinkBed-layers-1024x683.jpg)
We recommend WinkBeds if you’re unsure which firmness level to choose because of its exchange program. If you regret your mattress choice, you can try the softer, firmer, or plus (designed for higher-weight people) versions for $49. Our favorite part about the program is that WinkBeds will send you the new mattress and let you compare it with your first choice for 60 days. Then, you get to choose whether you’d like to keep one or return both.
Check out our review of the best beds in a box for more brands similar to WinkBeds.
Best firm mattress: Bear Original
Why we chose the Bear Original as the best firm mattress
The Bear Original scored an 8 out of 10 in firmness during our testing, making it ideal for people who love a firm bed.
Who may like Bear Original: Higher-weight sleepers (more than 250 pounds) or people who sleep on their stomach often.
Who may want to avoid Bear Original: Side sleepers or lower-weight (less than 130 pounds) people who may need more pressure relief for comfort.
Alternative to Bear Original for side sleepers
The Bear Original isn’t great for most side sleepers because it doesn’t contour the shoulder and hip to provide pressure relief. If you’re a side sleeper, a softer mattress like the Nectar Premier could be a better option. But if you’re looking specifically for something firmer, browse options in our review of the best mattresses for side sleepers. Or, pair this bed with a mattress topper.
Bear Original tester insights
The Bear Original is our top choice for those who want a firm, dense mattress. Our testers think it feels firmer than advertised at 8 out of 10 on the firmness scale, or about a point more than the brand’s firmness rating. When we lie on the mattress, the three dense foam layers cushion our body just enough to feel relaxed, but our body doesn’t sink into the mattress. This is ideal for stomach sleepers. Softer mattresses allow your hips to dip too far while lying on your stomach, causing an uncomfortable sway at the lower back.
Unless you’re used to sleeping on a firm bed, we don’t recommend this mattress for side sleeping. The Bear Original may not be contouring enough to accommodate your body’s curves, creating uncomfortable pressure points. However, higher-weight sleepers often perceive firmer beds as softer than they are. This bed could be ideal for most higher-weight people who want a durable option that’s less likely to sag over time.
From one of our Bear testers:
“I’m a frequent stomach sleeper and love this mattress for stomach sleeping. I don’t even need a pillow. It’s definitely too firm for side sleepers, though. My shoulders and hips didn’t sink into the mattress for enough pressure relief.”
Remember how the Nectar Premier mattress contoured the dumbbell? This mattress barely contoured it at all. That’s why the Bear Original mattress isn’t ideal for side sleepers’s sharp pressure points at the shoulder and hip. It’s better for stomach sleepers who love a flat, firm surface
Testing the Bear Original’s cooling capabilities is also important since memory foam notoriously retains more heat than beds with coils. To do this, we use a thermal gun to measure the temperature of the bed’s surface, lie on it for five minutes, and then remeasure the surface’s temperature to see how much heat is absorbed.
Our testing reveals that this mattress cools solo sleepers well, likely due to its heat-dissipating Tencel outer cover. But when three testers lie on the mattress to mimic a couple with a dog or toddler, it scores about average. While this isn’t a bad result, a hot-sleeping couple might want to consider a mattress made of materials that retain less heat. We like latex as the cooler (but slightly more expensive) alternative to foam because it is naturally breathable and tends to feel firmer than memory foam, per our testing results. If you’re interested in learning more about latex mattresses, check out our best organic mattress review.
While it’s not specifically designed for kids, the Bear Original is also a good mattress for kids. It’s affordably priced and its firm memory foam works well for growing children.
For more information, read our Bear mattress review.
Best affordable mattress: Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
Why we chose the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid as the best affordable mattress
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is a quality mattress for people on a budget. Our testers find this affordable mattress performs above average in support and pressure relief without paying for extra foam and coil layers to do the job.
Who may like Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid: Most back, side, and combination sleepers of any body type.
Who may want to avoid Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid: Higher-weight (more than 250 pounds) stomach sleepers may find this bed unsupportive.
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid tester insights
We highly recommend the medium version of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid for its high-quality, basic composition that feels comfortable in every sleep position. Most importantly, we love that it fits most budgets. Our survey respondents say price is a top consideration when purchasing a mattress, and most budgets are between $500–$1,000. Although Brooklyn Bedding’s regular-priced queen can exceed this range, frequent promotions drop it below $1,000.
This mattress primarily has three simple layers characteristic of a hybrid: a soft foam layer for cushioning, a transition layer for compression support, and a thick coil layer for edge support and additional contouring. According to testing, the most comfortable aspect of this mattress is the plush quilted cover because it softens an otherwise firm mattress. Pushing through the quilted cover, the following layers feel responsive and supportive, making this mattress ideal for back sleepers and people who sleep in more than one position at night. We also recommend it for lighter-weight (less than 130 pounds) or average-weight (130–250 pounds) stomach sleepers who don’t mind a plush cover because it doesn’t sink far and keeps the spine in a neutral position—but it may be too soft or unsupportive for higher-weight stomach sleepers.
From one of our Brooklyn Bedding testers
“As someone with narrow shoulders, I didn’t mind side-lying on this mattress, but I did notice some pressure build-up on my shoulder during our pressure map testing. A side sleeper with broader shoulders or a history of shoulder pain may find themselves tossing and turning, so they should go with the softer firmness option at checkout.”
Although the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid scores average in edge support and motion isolation (which isn’t a bad score), couples may want more from their bed. If you’re a light sleeper, it may be worth investing in a mattress with motion-isolating material, like a thicker layer of foam. If you and your partner like to spread out at night, a bed with more solid edge support will give you both more real estate without feeling unsafe at the edge.
Other mattresses we’ve tested to consider
The Birch Natural is a hybrid mattress made with latex instead of foam. Latex is a natural (but pricier) alternative to foam and tends to be more breathable and responsive while still providing plenty of cushion.
- Price range: $1,373.80–$2,248.80.
- Brand’s firmness rating: Medium.
- Warranty: 25 years.
- Trial period: 100 nights.
- Shipping: Free shipping; white glove delivery starts at $129.
Our testers find latex beds tend to be firmer than expected, but they can work for many sleepers who prioritize an eco-friendly mattress. The Birch Natural is great for hot sleepers looking for cooling materials, people who want to lounge comfortably with a partner or pet, and those who like a bouncy bed for intimacy or moving around in bed more easily. But testers feel its dense latex layer is too firm for side sleepers.
From our Birch tester
“As an average-weight person, I like this bed for back or stomach sleeping (or switching between the two positions). I expected this bed to be softer, but it creates pressure on my shoulder when sleeping on my side. I can tolerate it for now, and my spine still feels pretty neutral, but I would want to see more cushion under my shoulder for long-term comfort.”
According to our survey of 600 higher-weight adults (more than 250 pounds), about 68 percent searched specifically for a mattress designed for their body type. The Titan Plus is a great option because it uses high-density foams and strong steel coils for added durability and support. Our testers find this mattress on the firmer side, or 8 out of 10 on the firmness scale.
- Price range: $699–$1,598.
- Brand’s firmness rating: Firm.
- Warranty: 10 years.
- Trial period: 120 nights.
- Shipping: Free shipping.
Our testers like how well this mattress balances support and pressure relief as a firmer bed. Its thick layer of springs makes it bouncy and cool, so it’s easy to move on and accommodates hot sleepers well. We also like how couples of different body types can opt for the Luxe version, which adds an extra layer of foam to accommodate lower-weight (less than 130 pounds) people better.
From our Titan tester
“I really like how the Titan Plus looks high quality despite its relatively lower price. The quilting is stitched to foam, so it’s soft to the touch. And the stitching is nicely done. It looks luxurious.”
How we test and choose the best mattresses
The Handbook Team has researched many mattresses online and in person and hand-selected about 130 (and counting) of the best models to test. We’ve also surveyed 1,200 total shoppers (in two 600-people surveys) and interviewed recent mattress customers to understand the buying process and how their new bed has impacted their sleep quality, physical health, and mental wellness.
According to one survey
According to one survey of 600 mattress shoppers, about 80 percent of all respondents say their new mattress helps them sleep better, and 65 percent report improved mental health.
The best time to buy a new mattress is when it’s no longer serving you. A worn-down mattress will lose its original support and pressure relief, which can become uncomfortable and lead to a bad night’s sleep. When you begin regularly waking up feeling unrested or with noticeable aches and pains, it’s time to buy a new mattress. If you’re looking for a deal, keep your eye out for promotions and sales around different holidays.
First-hand testing experience
The Handbook Team hand-tests every mattress we review. We evaluate brands and models by recording 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.
For this review of the best mattresses, we focus on tests and scores related to comfort, like pressure relief and support. We also include a wide range of firmness options and materials to fit a variety of preferences.
Mattress surveys and interviews
We pay close attention to specific considerations that sleepers of all ages seek, as identified by respondents in our surveys of 1,200 total mattress owners. These include price, features, and the setup process. We also interview real people to better understand the motivations behind shopping for a new mattress and the benefits of purchasing one.
We chose brands that offer the minimum industry-standard trial period length (at least 100 nights) to ensure you have ample time to try the mattress at home and see if it’s right for you before fully committing.
Objective and honest ratings
We use information from our surveys, focus groups, and expert interviews to determine the most important features in our brand and mattress testing scorecards.
To make our list, every model in this review must score at least average for support and above-average for pressure relief to accommodate most people’s comfort needs. Our superlatives and roundups cater to different preferences, so we filter the best mattresses uniquely to fit relevant criteria.
We also weigh the following factors to determine an overall rating for each brand we recommend.
| Factor | Weight | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Customer service | 15 percent | Customer care center hours, support options |
| Brand reputation | 10 percent | Years in business, lawsuits, class actions against this company |
| Features | 20 percent | Size options, firmness options, weight. capacity, included add-ons (free sleep accessories) |
| User experience | 35 percent | White glove delivery, CERTIPUR-US certifications, risk-free trials |
| Affordability | 20 percent | Price, warranty, promotions |
Learn more about our mattress testing and review methodology.
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 “family” scores.
About our testing
We acknowledge that every body is different, and what feels comfortable to one person may not feel comfortable to another. Throughout our reviews, we refer to weight categories as light (less than 130 pounds), average (130–250 pounds), and heavy (more than 250 pounds) to distinguish between body weights.
Choosing the right firmness for your body is important to help you get the sleep you need. Typically, lighter-weight sleepers perceive mattresses to feel firmer than they are, and higher-weight sleepers perceive mattresses to feel softer than they are. Keep in mind that most mattresses are designed for the average-weight person.
How to choose a mattress for a good night’s sleep
Purchasing the right mattress can significantly improve your sleep. Because sleep needs and preferences vary from person to person, choosing the right mattress should be based on individual considerations. Your preferred sleep position, whether you sleep alone or with a partner, any relevant medical conditions, and of course, your comfort are all important factors to keep in mind when shopping for a new mattress.
Buying the right mattress for your needs means determining what type of mattress can best support your physical and mental health. Your budget is also an important consideration. Here’s what you need to know about mattress sizes, firmness levels, and more.
From our focus group
“A mattress is something you’re going to have for years and years and years. You’re also going to be sleeping on it every single night. It can literally make or break your day, how you feel, and whether you sleep well or not.”
Material
Mattresses come in various constructions, and depending on the type, you can expect various support and firmness levels.
- Hybrid: Hybrid mattresses combine comfort layers made with memory foam, polyfoam, or latex with innerspring coils. This combination promotes airflow to minimize heat retention, improves mattress durability, and offers enhanced edge support. See our hybrid mattress guide to read more.
- Memory foam: Memory foam mattresses are made with a single or multiple foam layers designed to cradle and support the body. As a material, memory foam responds to pressure and heat to contour closely around the body’s curves, which helps eliminate pressure from building. Check out our memory foam mattress guide to learn more.
- Innerspring: Innerspring mattresses are similar to hybrid mattresses in that they combine a layer of softer materials over a coil system. But they don’t have the same ratio of comfort to support layers and often have a firmer, traditionally bouncy feel. See our innerspring mattress guide for more information.
- Latex: Latex mattresses offer pressure relief comparable to memory foam, but they don’t retain heat in the same way. Latex is a durable, temperature-neutral material with a gentle, buoyant feel. See our latex mattress guide or organic mattress guide to learn more about the material.
Sleeping position
Different sleep styles benefit from specific firmness ranges to best support or contour the body.
- Stomach sleepers: Stomach sleepers tend to do well on firmer mattresses to keep the hips elevated and prevent low back strain. See our stomach sleeper mattress guide for more information.
- Side sleepers: Side sleepers need extra cushioning around the hips and shoulders to avoid pressure point pain, balanced with midsection support to prevent sag. They do well with medium-soft to medium-firm beds, depending on preference. See our side sleeper mattress guide to learn more.
- Back sleepers: Back sleepers benefit from medium to medium-firm mattresses to ensure proper spinal alignment. Check out our back sleeper mattress guide to read more.
- Combination sleepers: Combination sleepers should choose their firmness level based on the position they spend the most time in. However, they should also consider choosing a mattress that allows easy repositioning at night.
Sleeper’s body type
Your body type, age, and physical health condition influence what type of mattress you should choose. Here’s how.
- Weight: Higher-weight sleepers are more likely to sink into the comfort layers and feel less supported by the material, perceiving the mattress to feel soft. Lighter-weight sleepers are likelier to rest on top of the mattress, perceiving it as firmer. It’s important to shop for a mattress with your body type in mind, so you choose one that best supports your shape. Higher-weight sleepers can read our mattresses for higher-weight sleepers guide for more options.
- Age: Kids should have a mattress that complements their development. Many brands offer flippable designs that accommodate kids’ bodies as they grow. See our full mattresses for kids guide.
- Health conditions: While a new mattress isn’t the first step toward treating any health condition, it may influence comfort and your ability to recover at night. See our reviews on the best mattresses for back pain and best mattresses for hip pain for more guidance.
Temperature
Hot sleepers may wake up sweaty or tossing covers to keep cool. Some materials—often foam—sleep hotter than others, so you may want to consider a bed with temperature-regulating materials instead. Check out our best cooling mattress for options that dissipate heat and promote airflow.
Price
The average price for a queen-size mattress in this review is about $1,800 before discounts. Mattresses can be a hefty investment, but there are options to meet anyone’s budget. Check out our best affordable mattress and best luxury mattress reviews to learn more about the features you can buy in your price range.
Mattress size
Generally, more space is better, and a king-size mattress is especially comfortable if you share your bed with a partner or a pet. But it’s also important to factor in bedroom size when you consider the most appropriate mattress size. Budget is also a consideration, and a queen-size mattress is a more affordable choice than a king. The bigger a mattress is, the more expensive it is, and the more you’ll spend on bedding and linens as well.
Pain Relief
Pain relief and mattresses are closely connected. A good mattress can help alleviate pain, while a bad mattress can make pain even worse. Your mattress supports your spine and body while you sleep. If the mattress is too soft or too hard, it can put your spine out of alignment and cause ongoing pain and disrupted sleep.
How long does a mattress last?
The average lifespan of a mattress is between seven and 10 years. That’s dependent on details like material quality, construction type, and wear and tear. The number of sleepers who use the mattress and their body weight will also impact its long-term performance and lifespan.
You can increase the lifespan of your mattress by limiting wear and tear. Using a mattress protector can prevent stains or bed soiling. If you plan to pair your mattress with an adjustable bed, check that your mattress is compatible first. Otherwise, you may warp the material.
When is the best time to buy a new mattress?
The best time to buy a new mattress is when it’s no longer serving you. A worn-down mattress will lose its original support and pressure relief, which can become uncomfortable and lead to a bad night’s sleep. When you begin waking up feeling unrested or with noticeable aches and pains, it’s time to buy a new mattress.
Watch for promotions and sales around different holidays and sales events if you want a deal. The best sales happen around Memorial Day, Presidents Day, Labor Day, and Cyber Monday, where you can save up to 60 percent, depending on the brand. But many companies also do flash sales, offering a significant discount for only a few days. It’s best to check websites often since promotions change all the time.
Our final verdict
Our overall pick for the best mattress is the Helix Midnight Luxe because it balances pressure relief and support well, making it a comfortable pick for most sleepers. If you’re looking for an all-foam option, we liked the Nectar Premier or DreamCloud Memory Foam, depending on your preferences. If you’re looking for the best mattress for back pain, the Saatva Rx is our top choice.
The best mattress for you is one that allows you to sleep soundly through the night. But don’t forget to address aspects of your sleep hygiene outside of your bedroom environment, like getting enough daylight exposure or regularly exercising. Although a new mattress can help improve your nighttime comfort, it might not be the only solution to a better night’s sleep. If you’re having trouble resting at night, it’s best to talk to a sleep specialist for further guidance.
Compare the best mattresses of 2024
| Price range | $1,373–$2,873 | $1,049–$2,398 | $1,295–$2,790 | $839–$2,179 | $1,995–$3,795 | $1,049–$2,398 | $511–$1,099 | $665–$1,599 |
| Our firmness rating* | 5.5/10 | 5.5/10 | 7/10 | 6.5/10 | 6.5/10 | 6.5/10 | 8/10 | 6/10 |
| Material | Hybrid | Foam | Innerspring | Foam | Hybrid | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid |
| Warranty | 15 years | Limited lifetime | Limited lifetime | Limited lifetime | Limited lifetime | Limited lifetime | Limited lifetime | 10 years |
| Trial period | 100 nights | 365 nights | 365 nights | 365 nights | 365 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights |
| Best for | Back and side sleepers | Back and side sleepers | Back sleepers | All sleepers | All sleepers | Back and side sleepers | Stomach sleepers | All sleepers |
* Based on our testing results
Frequently asked questions
Purchasing a mattress online or in-store depends on what’s important to you as a shopper. If trying a mattress in person is essential, you may prefer buying it in-store. You’ll have more options when purchasing a mattress online, and most brands offer at least a 100-day trial period (the industry standard) to test the mattress before committing to it.
On average, a mattress lasts between seven and 10 years, but its lifespan depends on its material, construction, and wear and tear. If you’re waking up sore, there are visible signs of wear and tear, or you’re having trouble getting comfortable on your mattress, it may be time to replace it.
We chose the Helix Midnight Luxe as the best mattress on the market due to its medium-firm support, good pressure relief for back and side sleepers, plush pillow top, and affordable price compared to other popular brands. Ultimately, the best mattress for you depends on your preferences, needs, and budget.
Popular mattress options include memory foam, latex, innerspring, and hybrids (a combination of foam and springs). The best type of mattress for you depends on your personal preferences, primary sleeping position, and budget.
- Haack, M., Simpson, N., Sethna, N., Kaur, S., & Mullington, J. (2020). Sleep deficiency and chronic pain: Potential underlying mechanisms and clinical implications. Neuropsychopharmacology, 45(1), 205-216.
- Caggiari, G., Talesa, G. R., Toro, G., Jannelli, E., Monteleone, G., & Puddu, L. (2021). What type of mattress should be chosen to avoid back pain and improve sleep quality? Review of the literature. Journal of Orthopaedics and Traumatology: Official Journal of the Italian Society of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, 22(1), 51.
- Bolton, R., Hulshof, H., Daanen, H. A., & van Dieën, J. H. (2022). Effects of mattress support on sleeping position and low-back pain. Sleep Science and Practice, 6(1), 3.