The 11 Best Mattresses of 2026

• Best Mattress Overall: Helix Midnight Luxe
• Best Hybrid Mattress: Nectar Premier Hybrid
• Best Mattress for Back Sleepers: Leesa Sapira Chill 
• Best Luxury Mattress: Saatva Classic
• Best Value Mattress: Dreamcloud Classic Hybrid 
• Best Firm Mattress: The Winkbed Firm 
• Best Mattress for Back Pain: Saatva Rx 
• Best Memory Foam Mattress: Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling 
• Best Cooling Mattress: Bear Elite Hybrid 
• Best Mattress in a Box: Birch Natural 
• Best Mattress for Side Sleepers: Nolah Evolution  

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. Our team thoroughly tested every mattress on this list, applying both objective and subjective trials to get well-rounded ratings for each bed.

Best Mattress Comparison Table 

Mattress	Sizes	Height	Comfort Level
Helix Midnight Luxe	Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, CA King, Short Queen, and RV King	15 inches	Medium firm
Nectar Premier Hybrid	Twin, Twin XL, Full Queen, King CA King, Split King	13 inches	Medium firm
Leesa Sapira Chill	Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, CA King	14 inches	Plush, medium-firm, firm
Saatva Classic	Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, CA King, Split CA King	11.5 inches or   14.5 inches	Plush soft, Luxury firm, firm
Dreamcloud Classic Hybrid	Twin, Twin XL, Full Queen, King CA King, Split King	12 inches	Firm
The Winkbed Firm	Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, CA King	13.5 inches	Softer, Luxury firm, Firmer, Plus
Saatva Rx	Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, CA King	15 inches	Supportive plush
Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling	Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, CA King, Split CA King, Short Queen, RV King, RV Bunk	13.25 inches	Soft, medium, firm
Bear Elite Hybrid	Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, CA King,   Split King	14 inches	Soft, medium, firm
Birch Natural	Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, CA King	11 inches	Medium firm
Nolah Evolution	Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, CA King,   Split King	14 inches	Plush, Luxury firm, Firm

Helix Midnight Luxe
Sizes	Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, CA King, Short Queen, and RV King
Height	15 inches
Comfort Level	Medium firm
Nectar Premier Hybrid
Sizes	Twin, Twin XL, Full Queen, King CA King, Split King
Height	13 inches
Comfort Level	Medium firm
Leesa Sapira Chill
Sizes	Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, CA King
Height	14 inches
Comfort Level	Plush, medium-firm, firm
Saatva Classic
Sizes	Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, CA King, Split CA King
Height	11.5 inches or   14.5 inches
Comfort Level	Plush soft, Luxury firm, firm
Dreamcloud Classic Hybrid
Sizes	Twin, Twin XL, Full Queen, King CA King, Split King
Height	12 inches
Comfort Level	Firm
The Winkbed Firm
Sizes	Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, CA King
Height	13.5 inches
Comfort Level	Softer, Luxury firm, Firmer, Plus
Saatva Rx
Sizes	Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, CA King
Height	15 inches
Comfort Level	Supportive plush
Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling
Sizes	Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, CA King, Split CA King, Short Queen, RV King, RV Bunk
Height	13.25 inches
Comfort Level	Soft, medium, firm
Bear Elite Hybrid
Sizes	Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, CA King,   Split King
Height	14 inches
Comfort Level	Soft, medium, firm
Birch Natural
Sizes	Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, CA King
Height	11 inches
Comfort Level	Medium firm
Nolah Evolution
Sizes	Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, CA King,   Split King
Height	14 inches
Comfort Level	Plush, Luxury firm, Firm

Best Mattress Overall: Helix Midnight Luxe 

Our Thoughts on the Helix Midnight Luxe 

Picking our best overall mattress was no easy feat. But after a multitude of tests, our team couldn’t deny that the Helix Midnight Luxe definitely earned this spot. This is a medium-firm memory foam mattress that we found had top-notch overall performance, from motion isolation to pressure relief. As a result, this one earned a spot as our favorite overall.

Our tester, Addie, a 25-year-old stomach sleeper in the lightweight category—130 pounds or less for the purposes of our research—is a big fan of the Midnight Helix Luxe. When testing the pressure relief while side sleeping, Addie noted that as someone with shoulder injuries, she felt slight pressure on her shoulder, but that the mattress relieved most of her pain. “As a side sleeper, I find this very comfortable. I could snooze right here,” she said. However, we always recommend consulting a professional before shopping for a pain relief mattress. 

While testing for pressure relief on her back, Addie’s lower- and upper-body stayed aligned. “The pressure feels even all around. I feel like I am floating in a cloud,” she said, rating the pressure relief a 5 out of 5. This means Addie was exceptionally impressed by the bed’s pressure relief. “My body feels equally supported, like I am being held up by cute little Smurf hands.”  

Our team was also impressed with the Midnight Luxe’s motion isolation. “Whenever my partner was still, I felt like I was in bed alone,” Addie said. “All movement (aside from bouncing) felt subtle, and I don’t think I would have felt it if I was asleep. I did not feel any movement when my partner got up out of bed.” As there was some subtle movement (but very minimal), she gave the mattress a 4 out of 5 on the couple’s motion test. 

This mattress has an overall 6 out of 10 firmness rating, which means that it is medium firm, so it’s likely to appeal to a wide variety of folks. That said, if you prefer a softer option, we recommend the Leesa Sapira Chill. 

Specs

• Warranty: Limited Lifetime
• Materials: Copper Gel Memory Foam, SupremeSupport Memory Foam 4.0, premium responsive foam, individually wrapped coils, DuraDense Foam
• Trial Period: 120 nights
• Firmness Level: 6/10
• Price for a Queen: $2,398.66

Best Hybrid Mattress: Nectar Premier Hybrid 

Our Thoughts on the Nectar Premier Hybrid 

The Nectar Premier is our favorite hybrid because it’s made with six layers for motion isolation, cooling, pressure relief, and responsive support. It also has a layer of foundational foam to help keep the mattress secure. The mattress’s 800-some coils are individually wrapped for support and alignment. 

Addie tested the Nectar Premier Hybrid mattress as well, finding it to be cooling as a hot sleeper: “The mattress did not noticeably heat up while I was lying there, but it stayed cool throughout the test. The mattress stayed pretty cool to the touch, and the material felt breathable.” The Nectar Premier Hybrid cooled to its original temperature about five minutes after Addie got out of bed, scoring it a 3 out of 5 on the mattress cooling gun test. For our standards, the bed would need to cool in 4 minutes or less to earn a perfect score.

For edge support, Addie notes that this mattress had a “balanced amount of spring and slide when standing up. I sink in slightly, but I don’t feel like I’ll roll off. Overall, it’s stable. The back and side positions both feel equally secure.” That said, she did feel the edge support could be a bit stronger and rated this category a 3 of out 5. For those who may want a little bit more support for getting in and out of bed, we recommend the Winkbed Firm. 

The motion isolation of this mattress is excellent; it earned a 5 out of 5 on our motion test, as there was no movement noticed. Since it’s a hybrid, the memory foam layers help reduce movement and any sleep disruption. There was some initial movement as Addie first got onto the mattress, but the balls in the container settled quickly. With minimal motion transfer, this mattress would likely cause no disturbance to a partner. It effectively absorbs motion, which suggests it would reduce sleep interruptions, making it ideal for light sleepers. 

Specs

• Warranty: Forever warranty
• Materials: cooling top cover, pressure-relief layer, responsive support layer, hybrid motion isolation layer, foundation layer, durable bottom cover
• Trial Period: 365 nights
• Firmness Level: 6.5/10
• Price for a Queen: $2,413

Best Mattress for Back Sleepers: Leesa Sapira Chill 

Our Thoughts on the Leesa Sapira Chill 

For those who tend to sleep on their back, our team loved the Leesa Sapira Chill. This one is a cooling, supportive hybrid mattress that our tester Kayla, 34, a combination sleeper in the average weight category—130 pounds to 220 pounds for our research purposes—adored. 

Kayla felt excellent pressure relief while testing this mattress: “I feel really good laying on my stomach. The soft topper allows sinkage in the hips and my lower back to release any tension.” While laying on her back, Kayla said, “It hugs every part of your body. My body feels light and almost like it is floating on this mattress. I have had this mattress for about six months now and can confirm this is top tier for back sleepers.” 

This mattress is 6.5 out of 10 on firmness, so it’s likely to suit many sleepers. Kayla notes that the mattress is a little softer than your standard firm mattress due to its plush topper: “There is great support throughout the mattress, and the topper creates a soft, bouncy, and cradling support system that feels amazing.” 

Our tester thinks this is a great bed for its cooling aspects: “The mattress was noticeably cool when I laid down and felt almost like laying on a bed of snow. As I tested the mattress, the icy feel did soften but remained cool and became more temperature neutral.” We did, however, give it a 2.5 out of 5 cooling rating, as it took five minutes to return to its original temperature after testing. This is a little longer than some other mattresses take to return to baseline. Still, Kayla found it felt pretty cool throughout her experience. 

For the couple’s motion test, Kayla gave this mattress a 4 out of 5, feeling only minor movements from her testing partner. “While I could feel my partner moving around it did not affect me whatsoever. The motion was like a very light car ride that I could sleep through easily. My body never felt jostled or disturbed through any of the positions.” So, folks anticipating a busy day can rest assured their partner’s movements likely won’t affect their sleep quality.

Specs

• Warranty: Limited Lifetime
• Materials: Ultra cool cover, high airflow foam, adaptable memory foam, premium foam, individually wrapped coils. high density foam
• Trial Period: 120 nights
• Firmness Level: 6.5/10
• Price for a Queen: $2,264

Best Luxury Mattress: Saatva Classic 

Our Thoughts on the Saatva Classic 

The Saatva Classic is a luxury innerspring mattress with a breathable 3-inch pillow top to provide more support. For those who want a high-end mattress, the Classic is a great option to consider. Plus, it’s among the top picks in our Saatva mattress review. This mattress comes in multiple firmness levels—our tester, Addie tried the Luxury Firm model.   

During our bounce test of the Saatva Classic, the ball bounced 23 inches after hitting the mattress, earning a 5 out of 5 in this category. As the ball bounced more than 15 inches, that means this model is exceptionally responsive. Why does that matter? A mattress with good bounce makes it easier for you to move around in bed: rolling over, shifting, or getting in and out of bed feels much less strenuous. 

Addie felt minimal edge support from this luxury mattress, though. “Due to the firmness, I felt like I could easily roll off and didn’t feel like it would hold me in place. Lying on my back felt more secure than lying on my side. There wasn’t much sinking, but it didn’t feel supportive on the edges. I would rate this a 5 if only looking at sinkage but a 3 for feeling supported at the edge. I felt like I could roll off.” For those who prefer a more supportive mattress edge, we recommend the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid. 

During the couple’s motion test, Addie noted, “I could feel the tester get in and out of bed and also roll around and shift positions. I could feel active shifting. Not only could I feel the movement, I could also hear it.” Considering our tester felt a good amount of movement on the bed, she gave the Classic a 3 out of 5 for motion isolation. That said, if you’re someone who sleeps solo or gets up at the same time as their partner, you likely won’t experience any issues.

Specs

• Warranty: Lifetime
• Materials: 3″ Euro pillow top, patented Lumbar Zone active spinal wire, gel-infused memory foam, Lumbar Zone individually wrapped coils, high-density foam rails, base coil unit
• Trial Period: 365 nights
• Firmness Level: 5-7/10
• Price for a Queen: $2,139

Best Value Mattress: DreamCloud Classic Hybrid 

Our Thoughts on the DreamCloud Classic Hybrid 

For those who want a high-quality, affordable mattress, the DreamCloud Classic Hybrid is a great choice. At $1698, this one is about $600 less than your average queen bed. Our tester Courtney is a 29-year-old combination sleeper, meaning she alternates stomach and side sleeping, of average weight (130 pounds to 220 pounds for our purposes) who enjoyed the body contouring aspects of this hybrid mattress. 

For the motion isolation test, which involves monitoring the movement of a container of bouncy balls on the bed, Courtney gave this mattress a 4 out of 5. “As I initially got on the mattress and laid down, there was some movement of the balls, but more of a wave rather than a jolt. As I shifted around, the balls continued to slowly shift but were not disturbed again when I rolled onto my back or got off the mattress.” 

Our team also tested this bed with a second person, monitoring how much movement Courtney noticed as they got in and out of bed. She gave this couple’s motion test a 3.5 out of 5. Courtney said she “barely noticed when the partner first got on the mattress.” But she added, “As the partner adjusted their positions, I felt the movement of the mattress throughout.” 

Courtney rated this mattress a 4 out of 5 for edge support, finding that the mattress provides good assistance when getting up after sitting on the edge. “There is a slight slide, but I am not putting in a lot of effort to get up off the mattress. I feel some sinkage, like when you sit in those chairs in the shape of a hand, it is very comfortable. I feel like the mattress nicely contours to my body.” 

If you’re a warm sleeper, this budget-friendly model is a good choice. “This mattress remained a comfortable temperature,” Courtney said, adding that it “did not feel warm to the touch after I got up.” It took approximately 4 minutes and 15 seconds to return to its baseline temperature after Courtney got out of bed, scoring a 4 out of 5 on the cooling gun test. This is a quicker return to original temperature than many other mattresses on our list. 

Specs

• Warranty: Forever warranty
• Materials: CloudQuilt top, contouring memory foam, responsive foam, individually wrapped coils, dense foam, protective bottom cover
• Trial Period: 365 nights
• Firmness Level: 8/10
• Price for a Queen: $1,719

Best Firm Mattress: The Winkbed Firm 

Our Thoughts on the Winkbed Firm 

This mattress offers four firmness options: softer, luxury firm, firmer, and plus. Our tester, Courtney, tried The Winkbed Luxury Firm, which is made with eco-friendly materials and is firmer than other mattresses on our list. 

Courtney enjoyed the cooling aspects of this mattress, saying, “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.” It’s notable that this mattress only warmed up by 5.1 degrees total, which is unique on our list of the best mattresses. Most mattresses that we’ve tested warm up by at least 7 degrees, and sometimes over 10 degrees. It took 3.5 minutes to return to its baseline temperature, earning a 5 out of 5 on the cooling gun test. This mattress is very temperature neutral, and great for warm sleepers. 

As this is a pretty firm pick, it’s not ideal for everyone. Our tester rated pressure relief for a side sleeper as a 2 out of 5, writing, “this mattress is very firm while laying on my side, I feel as if my hips were raised slightly more than my shoulders. There was slight pressure in my neck. Overall, my hips do feel unaligned with my spine.” However, Courtney typically prefers a softer bed, so this is our top pick for folks seeking a firm mattress. 

It’s no surprise that the firmness of this mattress clocks in at a 9 out of 10. “This is an extremely firm mattress. I described it as a cinderblock,” our tester said. “For someone looking for a firm bed, this is for you!”  

We’d recommend the Saatva Rx, up next, for folks with back sensitivity or those wanting a softer bed. 

Specs

• Warranty: Lifetime
• Materials: Eucalyptus-derived tencel cover, pressure-relieving gel foam, stabilizing supportive foam, 3-zoned individually wrapped coil system, reinforced coils
• Trial Period: 120 nights
• Firmness Level: 7.5/10
• Price for a Queen: $2,570

Best Mattress for Back Pain: Saatva Rx 

Our Thoughts on the Saatva Rx 

Addie tested the Saatva Rx, enjoying its motion control and comfortable pressure relief. Originally, the Saatva Rx was designed with back sensitivity in mind, making it one of the best mattresses for back pain. After some testing, our team discovered that this mattress may be suitable for people who like to sleep on their side as well, thanks to its moderate firmness level and pressure relief.  

This bed is moderately responsive, earning the Saatva Rx mattress a 3 out of 5 for bounce. During our bounce test for this mattress, the ball bounced 10 inches, which is a relatively average result. Since this mattress has an average amount of bounce, it’s pretty good for ease of movement (such as getting in and out, shifting positions, and more).   

After this model went through the couple’s motion test, Addie rated the Saatva Rx a 4 out of 5 in this category. While the movement she felt was subtle, Addie did notice our other tester move and shift on the bed, even though she wore a blindfold and noise-canceling headphones. However, the motions weren’t overly disturbing, so folks sleeping with others are likely to still enjoy the Rx.  

While Addie tested the pressure relief of the Saatva Rx while laying on her stomach, she noticed ample support. “It feels very nice. I feel slight pressure on my lower back and hips, but no pressure on the upper part of my body like my chest,” she said, giving a 5 out of 5 for pressure relief. “My body feels equally supported. I feel nice and caressed by the mattress.”   

The overall firmness rating of the Saatva Rx mattress is a 6 out of 10, meaning that this model is a moderately firm mattress. According to Andrea Matsumura, MD, MS, FACP, FAASM, a board-certified sleep medicine physician, a medium firm mattress works generally well for most folks. “When your body is properly supported, it promotes spinal alignment, reduces pressure points, and helps you maintain a deeper, more restorative stage of sleep,” she says. “This is why investing in a mattress that suits your body type and sleep position can reduce discomfort, leading to improved sleep duration, enhancing overall well-being.”

Addie observed that “when lying on the edge, I feel nice and supported. My weight feels more evenly distributed when lying on my back. On my side, the mattress sinks in more.” So, those looking for a firmer option may prefer the Saatva Classic. 

Specs

• Warranty: Lifetime
• Materials: organic cotton cover, proprietary Lumbar Zone quilting, gel-infused memory foam, high-density foam, 1″ micro-coil layer, Rx Wave-Tech foam layer, individually wrapped comfort coil, high-density foam rails, high-density support foam
• Trial Period: 365 nights
• Firmness Level: 6/10
• Price for a Queen: $3,399

Best Memory Foam Mattress: Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling 

Our Thoughts on the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling 

Courtney tested the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling, our pick for the best memory foam mattress. It includes a copperflex layer, which contains hyper-elastic foam to adjust and cradle your body. The Aurora Luxe Cooling also has over 1,000 individually wrapped coils for support and motion isolation. And it’s also available as an RV King and an RV bunk size, for anyone who wants to sleep well while on the road! 

During the couple’s motion test, Courtney felt only minor sleep disturbing movement when her testing partner got in and out of bed. “Some movement was noticed when my partner changed positions, but it was not very disruptive,” she wrote, earning this mattress a 4.5 out of 5 for motion isolation. This is a higher score than other mattresses on our list. We recommend this mattress for co-sleepers looking for reduced motion.  

Our tester also loved this mattress for its edge support, rating it a 5 out of 5. Courtney said, “the stability feels good, and I do not feel as if I am about to roll off the mattress. When I adjusted on to my back, I continue to feel stable.” For those looking for more stability as you get in and out of bed or sit on the edge of the bed, this mattress may be a good fit for you. 

Courtney also liked this mattress for its cooling effects. She didn’t feel the mattress heat up as she tested it. She was surprised by this, noting “when I got out of the bed, it was actually cool to the touch!” The mattress returned to its baseline temperature in just under 4 minutes, scoring a 4 out of 5 on the cooling gun test. This is a great option for folks looking for temperature stable mattress. 

Specs

• Warranty: Limited Lifetime
• Materials: Glaciotex cooling cover, 1.5″ CopperFlex with TitanCool, 2″ firm supreme response comfort foam, 8″ zoned coil core, .75″ base foam
• Trial Period: 120 nights
• Firmness Level: 3-7/10
• Price for a Queen: $2,398.66

Best Cooling Mattress: Bear Elite Hybrid 

Our Thoughts on the Bear Elite Hybrid 

Addie tested the Bear Elite Hybrid, a 5-layer mattress with multiple cooling features. It includes a HydroCool® hand-quilted cover. There is also an optional upgrade to a Celliant-infused cooling cover for additional temperature control. The mattress also features a copper-infused layer of memory foam for comfort and a hygienic sleep environment. Needless to say, hot sleepers may want to consider this model.

The Elite Hybrid scored a 5 out of 5 after undergoing the cooling gun test, taking only 4 minutes to return to its baseline temperature. Our team is impressed by how effective this mattress’s cooling features actually are, and our tester agreed. 

Addie gave this mattress a 4 out of 5 for the motion isolation test. She noted that the bouncy balls remained quite still when she got in and out of bed. When she rolled around or adjusted her position in the bed, the movement of the bouncy balls increased. She wrote, “The movement did subside quickly, showing that the mattress was able to absorb the motion.”  

The bounce test resulted in a measured bounce height of 13 inches. We classify this result as a moderate bounce height, recorded between 12 and 14.99 inches. A moderate bounce result is a good indicator folks seeking a mattress with balanced responsiveness will probably like this one–it’s not too firm or too soft. 

When testing the couple’s motion, Addie wrote that she “noticed movement when my co-tester got in bed and as they moved around once laying down.” She didn’t feel subtle movements when the tester got out of bed, writing, “Bigger adjustments were more noticeable.” Addie rated this a 3 out of 5, since the motion isolation could have been better. If you’re looking for more motion isolation, we recommend the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling mattress. 

Specs

• Warranty: Limited Lifetime
• Materials: quilt cover, copper-infused memory foam, transition foam, individually encased coils, reinforced edge coils, high-density support foam
• Trial Period: 120 nights
• Firmness Level: 5-7/10
• Price for a Queen: $2,712

Best Mattress in a Box: Birch Natural 

Our Thoughts on the Birch Natural 

Courtney tested the Birch Natural, the only mattress-in-a-box that made our list. This type of packaging and delivery is great if you’re looking for stress-free shopping: there’s no need to coordinate delivery or pick up at a store. These mattresses are compressed and rolled into a manageable sized box, making set up on your own time a breeze. 

Courtney liked the edge support on this bed, rating it a 4 out of 5. While laying down, she felt equally supported on her back and side, writing, “I do not feel like I am going to roll off this mattress and my weight feels evenly distributed.” Courtney also noted that the Birch Natural has a slight spring, which helped her to easily to get in and out of bed. While sitting, she felt the mattress contouring to her and she sunk slightly, but it did not hinder her ability to stand up. 

Our tester didn’t find this mattress particularly good for cooling. It didn’t feel cool to her throughout the test, but it also didn’t feel hot. She wrote, “it was a comfortable temperature. When I got out of the bed, the mattress did not feel warm where I was previously sitting.”  

This mattress took longer than others on our list to return to baseline temperature, however. It received a rating of 3 out of 5 on the cooling gun test, having taken 5.1 to 6 minutes to return to its original temperature. For a more cooling mattress, we recommend the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling mattress or the Bear Elite Hybrid. 

Courtney rated the overall firmness as a 6 out of 10. She felt a gentle caress while lying on this mattress, which she described as a nice subtle sink. Courtney mused, “There is a slight firmness to it, but it is not unpleasant. While laying down, my weight becomes evenly distributed.” 

Specs

• Warranty: Limited Lifetime
• Materials: Organic cotton cover, natural wool, organic latex, individually wrapped coils
• Trial Period: 120 nights
• Firmness Level: 6-7/10
• Price for a Queen: $1,865.33

Best Mattress for Side Sleepers: Nolah Evolution 

Our Thoughts on the Nolah Evolution 

The Nolah Evolution mattress has three firmness levels: plush, luxury firm and firm. Courtney tested the Nolah Evolution Luxury Firm, the brand’s middle level of support. Overall, she gave this one a 4 out of 5 for side sleeping, noting that she felt zero pressure on her neck or shoulder while laying on her side. Plus, it even felt good on her sensitive back. 

“I feel good cushion and do not sink into the mattress. I don’t feel that I am sitting on top of it, either,” she said. “I have a bad back and I do not feel any more pressure than normal.” 

Courtney and fellow tester Bella both tested the cooling aspects of this mattress, agreeing, “The mattress felt cool the entire time we sat on it.” Courtney did not notice any toastiness occurring, and they both did not feel any noticeable difference in temperature. It is notable that this mattress returned to its baseline temperature in three minutes, among the quickest on our list, which resulted in a 5 out of 5 on the cooling gun test. 

Courtney felt that the Evolution had “really great motion isolation, with only slight movement on position changes,” rating it a 4.5 out of 5 after completing the couples’ motion test. She wrote that “when the second tester made a big adjustment while in bed, I felt the top of the mattress sink in a bit and shift, but the overall stability was good.” 

Specs

• Warranty: Limited Lifetime
• Materials: Breathable foam, five foam comfort layers, individually wrapped coils, foam comfort layers, zoned foam and coil technology
• Trial Period: 120 nights
• Firmness Level: 6/10
• Price for a Queen: $2,277

Other Mattress We Tested and Considered  

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 non-responsive and difficult to get in and out of. 
• Saatva’s Youth mattress comes in a full size, which might work for some adults. We left it off of our list because it did not offer our tester quality pressure relief for sleeping in any position, and they felt quite unbalanced. 
• Titan’s Plus mattress made our tester feel as if she was laying “on top” of the mattress. It didn’t contour to her body, and the firmness created discomfort and pressure on her back. 

How We Tested and Selected the Best Mattresses 

We tested and evaluated over 30 mattresses on a score of 1-5 for factors such as pressure relief, 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 first look at a mattress’s construction, materials, and firmness level. We then use a pressure map, which displays where pressure builds on a tester’s body by using heat-mapping technology during their evaluation.  

Not only do we gather this objective data, but the tester also provides their own description of where they might feel pressure when trying out the mattress. 

Cooling 

When evaluating the temperature control of a mattress, we utilize a thermal gun to record the temperature of the mattress before and after the tester lies on it for two minutes. We then measure how long it takes the mattress to return to baseline temperature, giving as an objective cooling test. 

Our testers also provide feedback on how warm or cool they feel, so we compile both objective and subjective data.  

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 weight plates on the mattress edge and then measure how much it sinks. We also test each mattress using a set of stacked plates that are approximately 130 to 150 pounds (replicating a real person’s weight), then measuring how much the mattress sinks. 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 mattress.  

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.   

How to Find the Best 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 mattress for you is also a great productivity tool, if you think about it! 

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

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. 

Mattress Material 

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.  

Prior Aches and Pains 

A high-quality hybrid mattress is generally good for pressure relief, however, go with what makes you feel more comfortable and pain-free. 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 ideal mattress type. 

“Areas like the hips, shoulders, and lower back bear much of your weight during sleep,” Dr. Matsumura says. “A mattress that distributes weight evenly can reduce tension and inflammation in these areas. When these elements are optimized, the result is deeper sleep.”

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. 

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 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 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 mattress will enhance your life, helping you to be at the top of your game, which is a great return on your investment. 

Frequently asked questions

What is the most highly rated mattress?

We selected the Helix Midnight Luxe mattress as our best overall pick for its contouring features, motion isolation, and pressure relief. 

Which type of mattress is best?

The best type of mattress is dependent on your own personal sleep preferences, such as your typical sleep position, body type, and whether or not you co-sleep. Memory foam mattresses are great for folks who are looking for pressure relief, and hybrid mattresses are often good for folks who co-sleep and are looking for a moderate level of support while in bed. The best type of mattress is one that helps with spinal alignment, reduces pressure, and helps you to wake up feeling rested and refreshed.  

How much should I spend on a mattress? 

How much you spend on your mattress is completely up to you. Most mattresses of good quality may range from $1000 and up, depending on the features and available upgrades.  

How often should I replace my mattress?

You may want to replace your mattress after 8 or 9 years. A 2009 study found that participants sleep quality improved with replacement of their old sleeping surface, which was on average about 9.5 years old.