The Best Affordable Mattresses of 2025: Get Great Sleep on a Budget  

With better sleep being linked to improved memory and productivity, investing in rest can also be thought of as an investment in your long-term success. Check out our selections for the best affordable mattresses to see how you can make that investment at a reasonable price point. 

Why Trust Fortune

Our team of expert testers has tried around 30 of the most popular mattresses and brands on the market today, using our comprehensive sleep testing methodology to find the best mattresses for all folks.  

Best 6 Affordable Mattresses of 2025 

• Best Affordable Mattress Overall: Nectar Classic Memory Foam 
• Best Affordable King Mattress: The WinkBed Firm 
• Best Affordable Cooling Mattress: Brooklyn Bedding Copperflex 
• Best Affordable Memory Foam Mattress: Bear Original 
• Best Affordable Firm Mattress: Titan Plus 
• Best Affordable Hybrid Mattress: DLX Classic 

Best Affordable Mattress Comparison Table 

Best Affordable Mattress Overall: Nectar Classic Memory Foam 

Our Thoughts on the Nectar Classic Memory Foam 

The Nectar Classic Memory Foam mattress features four layers of foam, designed to provide both pressure relief and motion isolation—perfect if you’re sharing the bed with a partner. A major advantage is its price tag is around $700, making it hundreds of dollars cheaper than other memory foam mattresses. 

Courtney, a 29-year-old combination sleeper of average weight—meaning 130 to 220 pounds for our purposes—tested the Nectar and rated it a 5 out of 5 for both the motion isolation test and couple’s sleeping. While undergoing the motion test, Courtney noted that the container of balls on the bed showed no disruption when she sat and laid down on bed. “The mattress felt solid underneath me, and I did not feel movement transferred throughout,” she said. Even as she rolled onto her back and got off the bed, the balls continued to slowly spin but did not bounce or show any further disruption. 

During the couple’s motion test, Courtney barely felt any movement as her testing partner got onto the mattress and adjusted positions. “There was one instance when I felt a slight motion, but it was not very noticeable,” she said. “If I were asleep, I don’t think it would’ve woken me up.” As memory foam models often do, this mattress offers fantastic motion isolation for those seeking to reduce sleep disturbance from a partner. 

Our team was impressed by this model’s cooling abilities; it earned a 5 out of 5 for its cooling features. This mattress returned to its baseline temperature in only about 3 minutes and 15 seconds after Courtney stood up. The cooling layer of the Nectar is made with a poly-blend fabric top cover with cooling polyethylene fibers and is included in the initial cost. 

Best Affordable King Mattress: The Winkbed Firm 

Our Thoughts on the Winkbed Firm 

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly king-size bed, look no further. The WinkBed Firm comes in at just under $2,000 for a king bed and it’s among the best king-size mattresses we tested. Our team also loves that WinkBed offers four firmness options: softer, luxury firm, firmer, and plus. 

During the bounce test, the ball bounced only 1 inch, earning a 1 out of 5 in this category. As a result, this mattress has pretty low bounce, which isn’t necessarily a negative. Beds with extremely low bounce can be good for folks who co-sleep with other people or pets, as it reduces motion. If you’re looking for a bouncier, more responsive mattress, we recommend the DLX Classic. 

Do you sleep warm or share your bed? You’re in luck, as this mattress received a 4.5 out of 5 for our cooling test. Before our tester Courtney, a 29-year-old, average weight stomach and side sleeper, got into bed, it measured 69.4 degrees. After exiting, the mattress was 74.5 degrees, remaining very temperature neutral. She said, “The mattress did not feel like it got warmer as I sat on it. It also did not feel warmer to the touch after I got off it.” This is among the most temperature neutral mattresses we tested, making it a great pick for folks who sleep relatively temperature neutral and don’t need extra cooling or additional warmth. 

Courtney gave scores of 5 out of 5 for both the motion test and the couple’s motion test, noting: “There was only an absolute minimum movement of the balls when I got on the mattress, during some transitions, and while getting off the mattress. During a more substantial body shift, there was some movement of the balls, which may be due to the shifting of the bed frame rather than the mattress.”  

When testing the bed with a partner, Courtney said she barely felt their movements, whether they shifted positions or moved on and off the bed entirely. We think the WinkBed is a great option for folks who may be sensitive to their partner’s movements or are light sleepers.

Best Affordable Cooling Mattress: Brooklyn Bedding Copperflex  

Our Thoughts on the Brooklyn Bedding Copperflex 

Brooklyn Bedding’s Copperflex mattress is a mattress-in-a-box that retails for just under $700. It’s available as a memory foam mattress or as a hybrid. We tested the Copperflex memory foam, and our team found it to be both cooling and comfortable. It has a layer made with CopperFlex® memory foam, which is infused with copper particles. The particles help to regulate the temperature of the bed, while also wicking away moisture and keeping it clean. 

Our tester Kate is 25, lightweight (under 130 pounds for our purposes), and a side sleeper.  She described the Copperflex as “cool to the touch” and noticed that when she first laid on it, it was perhaps a tad chilly, but in a comfortable way. As she continued the test, she could feel the mattress warming up a little. After she got out of bed, the mattress took about three and a half minutes to return to its original baseline temperature, earning it a 5 out of 5 on our cooling gun test—making this one of the fastest on our list! 

While undergoing the motion test, Kate said, “There was basically no disturbance from the bouncy balls whatsoever. They kept floating along like there was nothing on the bed with them!” Even when she rolled toward the container, there were no disturbances, which demonstrates how much the memory foam absorbed the movement. She rated the Copperflex a 5 out of 5 for motion isolation. 

During the couple’s motion test, Kate couldn’t feel when her testing partner got in or out of the bed, but there were some noticeable movements when she was changing positions. Kate felt that a partner’s movements would not be disruptive during the night on this mattress, describing the feeling from the test as “more of a gentle sinking when she moved around rather than being rocked around the mattress.” Our tester thinks you could sleep soundly on this mattress even next to someone who moves around a lot in their sleep, rating it a 4 out of 5. 

Best Affordable Memory Foam Mattress: Bear Original 

Our Thoughts on the Bear Original 

The Bear Original is our pick for the best affordable memory foam mattress. Made with CertiPUR-US® certified foams, its design limits movement, making it great for folks who co-sleep with a partner or pets. 

Kate tested the Bear Original, scoring it a 5 out of 5 for both solo motion isolation as well as couple’s motion. She says, “I couldn’t feel any movements when my testing partner was getting in or out, or when she was moving around, adjusting in the bed.” She also noted that during her solo test, the bouncy balls were hardly disturbed, they only slightly moved when she changed positions. The balls settled quickly, barely moving. Altogether, we think this mattress is a great choice for both its value and ability to reduce motion. 

Kate enjoyed the cooling capabilities of the Bear Original, saying, “It didn’t noticeably heat up by any means, and the fabric didn’t feel too warm.” She felt that this mattress would be one to stay pretty cool throughout the night. The mattress’s baseline temperature was recorded as 68.8 degrees and it warmed up to 78.6 degrees after Kate tested it, earning it an average score of 3.5 on our cooling test. We recommend Brooklyn Bedding’s Copperflex mattress if you’re looking for a cheap mattress with useful cooling features. 

The Bear Original is quite a firm mattress: Kate rated it a 9 out of 10, noting that it’s the firmest mattress she’s tested. Due to her lighter weight, she felt some pressure while lying on her back, saying, “On this mattress, I cannot sink down at all, which leaves my shoulders and hips at a very awkward angle.” We recommend this mattress for folks of a higher weight who may prefer a more supportive sleep experience.  

Best Affordable Firm Mattress: Titan Plus 

Our Thoughts on the Titan Plus 

Courtney tested the Titan Plus, a mattress made with robust and supportive materials to accommodate folks of a higher weight. Its firm construction not only enhances its durability but also means it’s stable from edge to edge. The Titan Plus is meant to handle up to 1,000 pounds, making it sink-free for all. 

The Titan Plus earned an 8 out of 10 for firmness, making it much firmer than others on our list. Courtney frequently felt that she was lying “on top” of the mattress, saying that it did not feel like the mattress contoured to her body, which was uncomfortable for her at times. For folks looking for mattress that’s a bit softer, we suggest taking a look at the Leesa Sapira Chill mattress. 

Our tester felt minimal spring when she got off the mattress, saying, “There is not a lot of sinkage, so it was not difficult to stand up. Due to limited sinkage, there is good support and a slight slide when getting off the mattress.” Courtney rated the edge support of the Titan Plus a 4 out of 5. 

While on her side, Courtney felt that she was lying more on top of the mattress, instead of sinking into it. She rated its ability to provide pressure relief while on her side a 3 out of 5. This will work well for folks who prefer a mattress that provides firm support. “My hips feel slightly higher than my shoulders,” she said. “However, this does not create a lot of pressure on my shoulders or neck.” Courtney said this could be countered well by sleeping with a supportive pillow.  

Best Affordable Hybrid Mattress: DLX Classic 

Our Thoughts on the DLX Classic 

The DLX Classic is a budget hybrid mattress that is flippable, a great feature for firmness variability and longevity. This is not only our favorite budget-friendly hybrid mattress, but it also offers great edge support and durability.  

Kate tested the DLX Classic and felt very supported when sitting on the edge of the mattress, rating this category a 5 out of 5. “The coils within the mattress helped to spring me up out of the bed, but not in a way where I felt shoved.” She felt it was gently lifting her hips to assist with standing up. “When I was laying down, I had no fear of slipping or sliding off,” she said. Kate mentioned that even if she had to sleep on the edge all night, she’d be able to stay there soundly. 

Our tester scored the Classic a 3 out of 5 for the regular motion test. She noticed that the hybrid nature of this mattress gives it a responsive feel, and the bouncy balls were a bit more active than others she’s tested. “When I got in or out, it was pretty calm, but any other movement once I was in bed caused them to move around quite a bit. This mattress is bouncy.”  

When testing the couple’s motion, Kate couldn’t feel her testing partner getting in or out of the bed but could feel most movements once they were both in the bed. “I think this could get disruptive throughout the night, depending on how much your partner moves around,” she said, rating the DLX Classic a 3 out of 5 for couple’s motion. If you’re looking for an affordable mattress that has more motion isolation, we recommend Brooklyn Bedding’s Copperflex mattress. 

Kate found this mattress softer than a universally firm mattress, saying, “The plush top makes this mattress feel nice and cushiony, but not in a way that I am sinking down to the bottom.” She felt most comfortable while lying on her back: “I was lifted and sitting on top of the mattress, but could feel contouring in my lower back.” Her shoulders and hips were at the same height, so she had no pressure between her shoulder blades or her back. Kate felt that the mattress did a great job relieving pressure in this position, rating it a 5 out of 5. 

Other Affordable Mattresses We Tested 

We tested more than thirty mattresses hands-on in our lab. Here are a few that we considered but didn’t make our list of top picks, and why. 

• DreamCloud’s Premier Memory Foam mattress had very little bounce, moving only 3 inches during our bounce test. It scored only a 1 out of 5, making it less responsive and possibly more difficult to switch positions and adjust while in bed. 
• Our tester found Brooklyn Bedding’s Aurora Luxe Cooling mattress to be firmer than described, making it more of a firm bed than medium firm, which may not be desirable for side sleepers or those of a lighter weight.   
• Bear’s Elite Hybrid didn’t isolate motion as well as other mattresses we tested, including the Bear Original. Our tester noticed her co-tester’s movements when they got in bed and as they moved around once laying down. 

How We Tested and Selected the Best Affordable Mattresses 

We tested and evaluated mattresses and scored them on a scale of 1-5 for factors such as motion control, cooling aspects, firmness, bounce, edge support, and value. Our testers evaluate the products based on their own individual experiences and preferences. We then review their testing feedback and data to share our findings and recommendations with you. 

Pressure Relief 

When evaluating pressure relief, we look at a mattress’s construction, materials, and firmness level. Our team uses a pressure map, which shows where pressure builds on a tester’s body, using heat-mapping technology.   

Alongside this objective data, our tester also provides their own description of where they feel pressure when trying out the mattress, switching positions.  

Cooling 

When evaluating the temperature control of a mattress, we use a thermal gun to record the temperature before and after the tester lies down on the bed for two minutes. Then, we measure how long it takes the mattress to return to the original temperature, giving us an objective cooling test. 

Our testers also provide feedback on how warm or cool their bodies feel, allowing our team to gather both objective and subjective cooling results. 

Motion Isolation 

When examining a mattress’s motion isolation capabilities, we run both a motion test and a couple’s motion test. The motion test involves measuring the movement of balls in a container at one end of the bed as the tester completes several movements.   

For the couple’s motion test, one tester wears noise-cancelling headphones and a blindfold, while the other tester completes a series of movements. The blindfolded tester then reports any motions they felt throughout the experiment. 

Bounce 

When testing for bounce, we drop a medicine ball from a 6-foot height onto each mattress. We then measure how high the ball bounces into the air after hitting the mattress. If the ball bounces less than 5.99 inches, the mattress is considered to have an extremely low bounce. If the ball bounces over 15 inches, it’s considered to have an extremely high bounce. Between 9 and 12 inches of bounce is an average amount of bounce. 

We test the bounce to measure a mattress’s responsiveness, meaning how quickly it returns to its original shape after you’ve moved around. This helps you to change positions while sleeping more easily and avoid feeling stuck. 

Edge Support 

During our edge support test, we place 130–150 pounds of weight plates on the mattress edge to measure how much it sinks, simulating a real person’s weight. If our tape measure shows that a mattress sinks 7.9 inches or more during this test, we give it a 1-star rating. If the mattress sinks less than or equal to 3 inches, it earns a 5 out of 5.  

Finally, our mattress testers also sit on the edge of the mattress and provide a subjective rating out of 5 on how supported they feel. A more supportive mattress edge can feel more comfortable for those who may need a little more help getting in and out of bed or for folks who take up more space on the surface. 

Durability & Materials 

When choosing which mattresses to feature, we also consider materials such as hybrid, latex, and memory foam. This may help you choose the type of mattress that’s best for your individualized sleep needs. We also consider materials that are eco-conscious and have special certifications. 

Value 

When considering value, we review mattress materials and construction by cutting each one open. We also place a higher value on brands that manufacture their mattresses in America and use environmentally conscious materials. Below, we compare our different picks, taking a look at their features and costs side-by-side. 

How to Find the Best Cheap Mattress for You 

Everyone has different mattress needs, depending on body type, ideal sleep position, and pre-existing health conditions. Your sleep quality is directly tied to your work performance, quality of life, and ability to think clearly. The right affordable mattress is also a great productivity tool, if you think about it!  

Here’s what to consider when selecting the best cheap mattress for you. 

Mattress Size

You may enjoy sleeping on your back, side, stomach, or a combination. Back sleepers may benefit from a king-size mattress, thanks to the extra space for stretching your legs and arms. A king mattress may be an advantage for side sleepers, too, as it can allow you to adjust your arms and legs to get comfortable or sprawl out. Stomach sleepers, too, may like the extra horizontal space a king mattress has to offer. Plus, for folks who tend to switch positions, king beds offer plenty of space for shifting. 

Sleep Position

Folks tend to vary in the way that they sleep: on their side, back, stomach, or a combination of different positions. Here are mattress types that may work best for each: 

• Side sleepers: We recommend a medium soft to medium firm mattress for support and alignment while on your side. Typically, memory foam or hybrid options may work for pressure relief. 
• Back sleepers: We suggest a medium firm mattress to help raise your hips to an even level while on your back. As far as type of mattress, a memory foam, latex, or hybrid mattress is recommended for equal support. 
• Stomach sleepers: We advise trying a medium firm or firm mattress to support and keep your hips level while on your stomach. Usually, an innerspring or a firm hybrid mattress will work well for core stability. 
• Combination sleepers: We recommend a medium firm mattress for versatility, ensuring that you’re comfortable no matter what position happen to lay in. A latex or responsive hybrid mattress may work best for you for ease of movement as you shift around. 

Weight and Height 

When buying a new mattress, consider how your height and weight, as well as that of your sleeping partner, may impact which mattress suits you best. For instance, folks over 6’2” may need a longer mattress to prevent their feet from hanging over the end of the bed. In this case, a California King mattress or a Twin XL may be preferred. Lightweight sleepers under 130 pounds may need a more plush and contouring type of mattress so that they can feel proper pressure relief, rather than a very firm mattress. 

Mattress Material and Mattress Type 

Mattresses are frequently made with different types of material and varying layers. These materials may feel different to you and have multiple degrees of comfort depending on your personal preferences. Here are highlights and possible drawbacks to the most popular mattress materials: 

• Memory foam: Mattresses made of this material are usually great for pressure relief and motion reduction. Potential drawbacks of memory foam include possible trapping of heat, and the mattress may be less responsive overall.  
• Natural latex: Mattresses made with natural latex are typically more eco-friendly than other materials and are more breathable. Possible pitfalls are that this material may make a mattress too firm for some folks, and it may be more difficult to move due to weighing more.  

• Innerspring: Mattresses made with this material are bouncier than mattresses made with other materials. Innerspring also helps to promote good airflow – great if you tend to sleep hot. Potential drawbacks of this type of mattress are that it may be noisy, and may be less durable over time, wearing down faster than other materials.  
• Hybrid (combines foam and coils): Highlights of this type of mattress are that the combination of materials usually helps with comfort and feeling balanced. Hybrid mattresses may be heavier, and potentially more expensive than mattresses made with other materials. 

“Look for a mattress that offers medium-firm support, meaning one that contours to your body without sagging,” Andrea Matsumura, MD, MS, FACP, FAASM says. “This helps maintain the natural curve of your spine and reduces strain on pressure points like the hips and shoulders. Memory foam and hybrid mattresses are often good options because they combine overall support with pressure relief in the right areas.”

Cooling Abilities 

Many mattresses have cooling features that are included in the materials or can be added on as an upgrade. Consider mattresses with a breathable, organic cotton cover or top, which helps to circulate air around your body. Materials such as gel-infused memory foam, GlacioTex™ cooling fibers, and more can help to keep your bed temperature-controlled throughout the night so you don’t get too hot. 

Prior Aches and Pains 

If you’ve experienced aches and pains, we recommend speaking with your doctor or other healthcare professional about the best type of mattress for your condition(s). A professional will be able to review any pre-existing conditions and talk to you about possible chronic pain that you’d like to alleviate, then recommend an affordable mattress type to help best support you. 

“The wrong mattress can worsen existing back pain, arthritis, or even sleep apnea,” Dr. Matsumura says. “[The wrong mattress] can also lead to poor sleep posture, which, over time, contributes to chronic discomfort and poor sleep habits.” So, save yourself the aches and pains and, if needed, chat with a professional before you buy.

Certifications 

When selecting a mattress, consider its third-party certifications. These certifications provide independent, non-profit verification that a mattress is made with quality materials and are eco-conscious.   

Here are a few certifications that are important to keep in mind:  

• Global Organic Textile Standard (aka GOTS): Ensures that organic textiles are sourced in a socially and environmentally conscious way  
• Global Organic Latex Standard (aka GOLS): Ensures that the organic latex utilized is sourced in an environmentally responsible way  

• CertiPUR-US ®: Certifies the safety of foam and its emissions  
• GREENGUARD Gold: Certifies that the materials emit a low level of chemicals, making the products suitable for safe use indoors 

Cost 

When it comes to buying a new mattress, we understand that folks have different preferences and considerations for their budget. There are multiple factors that play a part in what you feel comfortable spending.  

A good, yet affordable mattress allows you to mentally reset overnight and prepares you to be productive and alert during your demanding and busy workday. Ultimately, selecting a quality affordable mattress will enhance your life, helping you to be at the top of your game, which is a great return on your investment. 

Tips for Finding Cheap Mattresses 

• Holiday Sales: Mark your calendar for holiday weekend sales throughout the year, such as Presidents Day, Memorial Day, July Fourth, Labor Day, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday. You can check for sales both online and in stores. 
• Compare Models: Check out various models online and learn more about mattress materials. Memory foam or innerspring mattresses are often cheaper than hybrids or mattresses made with natural latex. You can also consider clearance models, as newer models are often released in the spring or summer.  
• Consider Extra Costs: Look for included delivery services, mattress-in-a-box options, and shipping costs. Many brands offer a free sleep trial, but you might have to pay to return the mattress if it’s not a good fit, so be sure to read the fine print! 
• Subscribe to Newsletters: Join the email list for the brand you might be interested in, or sleep-focused websites, both of which often send around promotions on mattresses 

Frequently asked questions

What is the best cost-effective mattress? 

Our pick for the best budget mattress is the Nectar Classic Memory Foam, which costs under $1,000. It’s a memory foam mattress that offers fantastic cooling effects and isolates motion efficiently. 

What is a good cheap mattress brand? 

We like brands such as Nectar, Brooklyn Bedding, and Bear for their affordable mattresses and quality materials and construction.

What is the cheapest mattress type? 

A mattress made mostly (or entirely) of memory foam is typically the cheapest type of mattress. 

Is it better to buy an expensive mattress? 

An expensive mattress isn’t necessarily better than an affordable mattress, as it really depends on the specific factors that are important to you. It’s best to buy a mattress that suits your budget and sleep needs. There are plenty of affordable mattresses that are made with high-quality materials and constructed well.