1. Best overall
2. Best value
3. Affordable luxury
4. For side sleepers
5. For back pain
6. Budget cooling
7. For joint pain
8. Under $500
9. Organic
10. Premium cooling
How we test
We personally research and test the latest mattresses to provide unbiased recommendations. We rate each mattress out of 5 and use the review data to inform rankings. Read our mattress methodology for more.
Shopping for the best mattress online has never been easier, but with so many choices available it can be hard to know where to begin. Our expert team has tried a multitude of beds from both popular and lesser-known brands, allowing us to create a list of top picks spanning various sleep needs and price points. We've also tapped into our years of experience to answer some of the most commonly asked questions about choosing the right mattress.
We recommend investing in the best mattress you can afford, because generally you get what you pay for when it comes to quality and longevity. The good news is that the Labor Day mattress sales are a great time to shop – many brands are offering especially low prices right now. In many cases, these are the cheapest prices we expect to see this side of Black Friday, so it's time to take the plunge if you don't want to wait until the end of November. We've included deals info with each product entry.
Once you've figured out your budget, a good place to start is to narrow down the type of mattress you want. For a breathable and responsive sleep surface, opt for a traditional innerspring mattress. If you like sinking into your bed after a long day, a body-contouring memory foam mattress will give you the relief you want. You can also go with a hybrid mattress, which offers the best of both worlds.
The other major thing to get right is the firmness level you need. Your body weight and sleep position will influence how soft or hard you need your mattress to be. Firm beds suit heavier people and those who sleep on their front or back, as they prevent the hips from sinking too low. Plush to medium mattresses are good for lightweight individuals and side sleepers needing pressure relief along their hips and shoulders. Medium-firm mattresses tend to be the most versatile as they can sufficiently support any sleep style. Comfort is subjective, though – every mattress on this list comes with a trial so you can take your time and test it at home.
All clear? Here's our best mattress ranking for 2023...
The quick list
In a hurry? Here's the simplest guide to the best mattresses around. If you have more time, scroll down for in-depth reviews of each model, with plenty of information about who they will and won't suit, as well as alternatives to consider.
Best mattress overall
This innerspring hybrid offers a luxurious feel for a lower-premium price. Choose from 2 heights and 3 firmness options to suit your body type and sleep position. There's not much memory foam here, so if you want that contouring feel, check out the DreamCloud instead (#3).
Best value
This is our favorite memory foam mattress, offering incredible value for the lower mid-range price, and a medium-firm feel that will suit most sleepers (even those used to springs). It's not as luxurious as most of the hybrids here, and as with most foam models can occasionally sleep warm.
Affordable luxury
This hybrid features a thick layer of foam for body contouring, as well as springs for bounce. While it's not as luxurious as competitor models from Saatva (#1) and WinkBeds (#5), and is only available in one firmness option, it's a strong alternative in the mid-range price bracket.
Best for side sleepers
With a firmness rating of 6/10, this mid-range hybrid mattress is on the plusher side, making it ideal for dedicated side sleepers looking for cushioning around the shoulders and hips. However, back and stomach sleepers are likely to find it lacks support in these positions.
Best for back pain
This upper mid-range hybrid is available in 3 firmness levels. Memory foam delivers a moderate level of contouring while the springs are very supportive, making this a great choice for anyone with back, hip or shoulder pain. On a bigger budget, a good upgrade would be the Saatva (#1).
Best affordable cooling
The Chill has a phase-change cover that helps it regulate temperature much better than most other memory foam beds – and especially models at this mid-range price. It won't deliver the powerful cooling of specialist beds like the Casper (#10), but is far more affordable than those.
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Best for achy joints
The Purple Plus is a premium hybrid with a difference – there's no springs or memory foam, but instead a bouncy, stretchy grid that's somehow firm and soft at the same time. If you get on with the unusual sleep feel, this offers excellent pressure relief and cushions without trapping heat.
Best under $500
This all-foam mattress punches well above its budget price tag when it comes to comfort and support. The firm feel will suit back and stomach sleepers, although might be too hard for side sleepers. The Nectar (#2) would be an excellent upgrade if you're able to spend a little more.
Best natural mattress
The Awara is a hybrid mattress that uses latex foam alongside springs and wool, which add up to a durable, firmly supportive, more natural bed option. It's very reasonably priced for an organic model, but there is some motion transfer, so not the best for couples or restless sleepers.
Best premium cooling
This premium hybrid has incredible chilling powers (it promises to keep you 6 degrees cooler) as well as offering exceptional support and motion isolation. The main sticking point is likely to be the price, but if you struggle with overheating, it could be worth the investment.
The best mattresses 2023 – tested by experts
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Best mattress overall for 2023
✅ You suffer from back pain: The Classic is designed to keep your spine aligned, with extra support under the lumbar. You can also pick your firmness to suit your particular needs.
✅ You want a luxurious mattress: With a pillowy cushion top and high-quality materials, the Classic feels like a hotel bed. The taller option is particularly luxurious.
✅ You sleep warm: Being predominantly coils rather than foam, this mattress is breathable and won't trap body heat. Our testers slept cool throughout our review period.
❌ You like the hug of memory foam: There's minimal foam here, so you won't get that sink-in feel. If that's your preference, check out the Nectar Original (#2) or the Helix Midnight (#4).
❌ You're on a tight budget: While the Saatva Classic is good value for the quality, it's still a premium mattress. A similar, but lower-priced alternative to consider is the DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid (#3).
❌ You're a very light sleeper: The more responsive sleep surface means you might experience some slight motion transfer. Light sleepers who share a bed might want something that isolates movement better.
🔎 The Saatva Classic offers hotel-level luxury and quality. The ability to pick from three firmness levels and two heights means it can suit a wide range of people with different preferences and body types. It sleeps cool, provides excellent support, and comes with outstanding extras. Well worth the investment.
The Saatva Classic is a premium mattress from luxury online brand Saatva, and it's hands-down the best mattress we've tested so far. This superb hybrid innerspring is customizable, with three firmness options and two heights to choose from, depending on your preferences (we reviewed the most-popular 11.5-inch luxury firm option). Other entries in our list are great for specific needs, but the Saatva is an excellent all-rounder, suitable for a wide variety of body types and any sleep position.
What's it like to sleep on?
The Saatva Classic has a fairly traditional feel – that is, it has a relatively responsive, slightly bouncy surface that's easy to move around on, rather than the sink-in feel of memory foam (which some people don't get on with). The majority of the mattress is made up of layers of springs, with a thin layer of memory foam in the top central third, and foam rails around the perimeter, to bolster the edges. This means there's plenty of space for air to circulate, making this mattress nice and breathable. During our review period, our testers slept consistently cool on this mattress.
The design is geared towards keeping your back aligned, with a special section in the central third to support your lumbar. The Classic also excelled in relieving tension around our reviewers' shoulders, hips and knees. All this mean it'll work well for anyone struggling with back pain or sore joints.
Because you can pick your firmness, it can be comfortable for lots of different sleep styles and body types. Most people will find excellent comfort and support with the Luxury Firm version, but for heavier people and those with back problems there's the Firm version, while lightweight side sleepers seeking extra softness might prefer the plush option.
Buying information
It's rare to find the Classic being solid at MSRP, and national holidays are a good bet for the biggest discounts. MSRP has risen a few times over the past 12 months or so, but it's still good value for the build quality. Unusually amongst our best mattress picks, the Saatva Classic is delivered flat rather than being vacuum-packed and rolled into a box – that means it might not be suitable if you live in a building with very narrow stairwells, for example. White glove delivery to your room of choice is included for free, though.
- Read more: Saatva Classic mattress review
Best value mattress
✅ You're a side sleeper: The thick layer of memory foam at the top of this mattress allow the shoulders and hips to sink in comfortably in a side-sleeping position.
✅ You suffer from sore joints: Memory foam is great for relieving pressure, as it contours to your exact shape and cushions your joints.
✅ You share a bed with a wriggler: The Nectar excels when it comes to motion isolation, which means it's a good choice if you share a bed.
❌ You sleep hot: Memory foam mattresses can sleep slightly warm. Very hot sleepers could consider a hybrid like the Saatva Classic (#1), or if you want all-foam, try the Cocoon Chill (#6).
❌ You need extra support: Heavier bodies, stomach sleepers and some back sleepers will need a firmer mattress to keep their spine properly aligned. The Loom & Leaf is sturdier and available in three firmness levels.
❌ You like a responsive sleep surface: Memory foam has a slight quicksand feel, which can make moving around more difficult. Try an innerspring or hybrid model if you want something more responsive.
🔎 The Nectar is a well-made memory foam mattress that offers excellent value for its lower mid-range price. The medium-firm feel is especially comfortable for side sleeping, and we were also impressed by this mattress' motion isolation and pressure relieving properties. The extras – a full year's trial and forever warranty – are extremely generous.
The Nectar Memory Foam Mattress is tough to beat when it comes to sheer value for money. This medium-firm, all-foam mattress will suit a wide range of sleepers. It's the cheapest in this brand's current lineup, and offers excellent quality for the lower mid-range price, especially when it comes to extras – the 365-night trial period and forever warranty match what you'll get with the much more expensive Saatva (#1), and are incredibly generous.
What's it like to sleep on?
At the top of the Nectar you'll find a three-inch layer of memory foam, which gives this mattress that classic memory foam 'hug' feel. You sink slightly into it and the mattress contours gently to your body as you sleep, providing tailored pressure relief around your shoulders, hips and back, and helping align your spine. This is a medium-firm mattress, so you won't feel like you're being swallowed by it and it shouldn't be too much of an adjustment to those used to innerspring models. The Nectar will suit most side sleepers, but back and stomach sleepers – especially those of heavier body weight – might need something firmer.
Memory foam mattresses often offer strong motion isolation, and that's true of the Nectar. During our review, we found this model absorbed movements very well, making it a good choice for anyone who shares a bed and doesn't want to be disturbed by their partner's wriggling.
All-foam beds will almost always sleep warmer than anything with springs, and while the Nectar offers decent temperature regulation (thanks to a heat-dispersing cover and gel-infused foam), if you struggle with overheating, this might not be the best mattress for you.
Buying information
You can ignore MSRP, as this mattress is always sold with a major discount – the current long-running offer knocks 30% off ticket prices. Nectar doesn't usually increase its discounts around national holidays. The best time to buy is during one of this brand's random 40% off flash sales – these don't happen often and are hard to predict, but there are usually a few around Black Friday. The extras (a year-long trial and a forever warranty) match the best you'll see on the market, and amp up your value for money.
- Read more: Nectar Mattress review
Best affordable luxury mattress
✅ You can't stretch to the Saatva Classic: Like the Saatva at #1, the DreamCloud is a luxurious-feeling hybrid mattress. You'll make a few sacrifices for the lower price tag, but overall it's a great affordable alternative.
✅ You're a back or stomach sleeper: We rated the mattress particularly highly for its excellent support for back and stomach sleepers.
✅ You're on the heavier side: The DreamCloud is firmer than you might expect, providing excellent support for heavier bodies. Of our testing panel, the heavier people found it ultra-comfy in all positions.
❌ You're a lightweight side sleeper: Light individuals might find this bed too firm, creating a buildup of pressure in a side lying position in particular. Consider the Helix Midnight (#4) if that's you.
❌ You need a sturdy edge to push up off: In our tests, we found the edge support slightly lacking, for heavier bodies especially. The WinkBed (#5) has a similar design but with sturdier edges.
❌ You don't want a bulky mattress: At 14", the DreamCloud is thicker than average, which means it can be unwieldy when it comes to changing the sheets.
🔎 The DreamCloud mattress is a great affordable alternative to our #1 pick. This hybrid combines sturdy coils and contouring foams to deliver excellent all-over support. It's firmer than DreamCloud rates it, so if you're a lightweight side sleeper or prefer a plush mattress it might not suit you, but it's a strong recommendation for most others.
If you want a luxurious mattress but are on a tighter budget, check out the DreamCloud. This 14-inch tall, medium-firm hybrid delivers the look and feel of a hotel mattress, for a mid-range price. There's no option to pick your firmness or height, but it's a few hundred dollars cheaper than the Saatva and feels much more high-end than the price-tag would suggest.
What's it like to sleep on?
The top 4.5 inches of this mattress is made entirely from different foams, which provide plenty of pressure relief and body contouring, as well as strong motion isolation. That's balanced by a base of 8-inch wrapped coils, which add a little bounce and make the surface easier to move about on compared to an all-foam model. These springs also create space for air to circulate within the mattress – overall our testers found the DreamCloud delivered excellent temperature regulation throughout our review period. A quilted foam and cashmere top layer adds a touch of luxury.
Unlike the Saatva (#1) and WinkBed (#5), this hybrid is only available in one firmness option. DreamCloud rates this mattress as a 6.5/10 on the firmness scale, placing it in the 'medium firm' territory, but our testing panel found it much firmer – around an 8. That's perfect for anyone wanting a more supportive sleep feel. It's great for back or stomach sleepers and anyone struggling with back pain, as it'll ensure the hips don't drop too low and the spine remains properly aligned.
The heavier-weight testers on our panel also found the DreamCloud supremely comfortable, although did note that the edge support was a little lacking (worth bearing in mind if you have mobility issues, for example). However, some lightweight side sleepers might prefer something softer, to allow their shoulders and hips to sink in further.
Buying information
The DreamCloud is always sold with a generous discount – the current long-running deal knocks 40% off MSRP. These offers tend to be pretty stable so don't expect bigger discounts around national holidays (as can be the case with other brands). The year-long trial and lifetime warranty are ultra-generous too. It's not as cheap as the Nectar #2, but it's an outstanding choice if you want to splash out a little bit, but not too much.
- Read more: DreamCloud mattress review
Best mattress for side sleepers
✅ You're a side sleeper: The medium-firm memory foam upper layer allows the sleepers' shoulders and hips to sink just enough into this mattress' surface, providing soothing support for side sleepers.
✅ You share a bed: The Midnight isolates motion very well, meaning you won't be disturbed by the movements of a restless partner.
✅ You prioritize value for money: There are plenty of fancier mattresses for bigger budgets, but we think the Helix hits that sweet spot between performance and value, and delivers a lot for its mid-range price-tag.
❌ You're a stomach or back sleeper: The Midnight won't be firm enough to provide adequate support under the hips for most stomach sleepers and some back sleepers. That's especially true if you weigh above average.
❌ You don't like the contouring feel of memory foam: If you prefer is for a more responsive sleep surface, try one of Helix's 'back / stomach sleeper' models instead, which swap the memory foam for a bouncier foam.
❌ You want maximum luxury: The design of the Midnight is clean and modern, but it doesn't feel as sumptuous as the Saatva (#1). You could also opt for the Midnight Luxe.
🔎 The Helix Midnight is designed especially for side sleepers, and delivers on those promises; the upper levels of sink-in memory foam contour comfortably around the shoulders and hips and prevent pressure from building up. The medium firmness is perfect for side sleeping too, but beware it likely won't be supportive enough for back or stomach sleepers.
The Helix Midnight is an affordably priced hybrid mattress that delivers the comfort and support of a more expensive model. The Midnight has been specifically designed for side sleepers, and our testers all agree it's an excellent choice if you habitually sleep in this position.
What's it like to sleep on?
Helix rates the Midnight as a 5-6 out of 10 on the firmness scale, but in our tests we judged it to be more like a 6.5 or 7. The overall feel is gently supportive, with a memory foam upper layer that contours around your curves. It's especially comfortable in a side-sleeper position, allowing the hips and shoulders to sink in a little, preventing pressure from building up. Stomach sleepers should seek something firmer for proper spinal support, as should those who weigh more than average. Back sleepers should approach with caution too, as the Midnight might not provide adequate support beneath the hips.
The upper comfort levels on the Helix Midnight have that classic memory foam feel, in that they're slow moving and hug your shape, taking a second to return to re-expand once pressure is removed. Many people find this ultra-soothing – and it has benefits like being exceptional at absorbing movements – but it can be an adjustment if you're used to an innerspring mattress.
Memory foam can trap body heat, but we didn't have any issues with overheating during our review period. If you sleep particularly hot, there's the option to upgrade to a specialist GlacioTex cooling cover, either as a straight swap with the standard cover or as part of a more luxe-feeling pillow-top. Be aware the GlacioTex will make the sleep surface a bit slippery, though.
If you like the look of this brand but would prefer something slightly different, check out the rest of the Helix range. This brand's USP is that it makes mattresses 'for every body', which translates as having an option for every firmness preference (soft, medium, firm) and sleep position combination. All the back/stomach sleeper options swap the slow-moving memory foam for a more responsive comfort foam layer.
Buying information
The Helix Midnight is almost never sold at full MSRP. The regular deal takes 20% off, but we've seen that increase to 25% off over national holidays like Memorial Day and the 4th of July, and we have our fingers crossed for a bigger discount on Black Friday.
- Read more: Helix Midnight mattress review
Best for back pain
✅ You have back pain: The WinkBed has been engineered with back pain sufferers in mind, and in our tests we found it delivered excellent support, as well as comfortable pressure relief.
✅ You want to be able to pick your firmness: The WinkBed is available in 3 firmness options alongside a PLUS version, so you can pick the exact mattress to suit your sleep style and body type.
✅ You share a bed: The WinkBed offers excellent motion isolation, meaning you won't be disturbed by a partner's movements in the bed.
❌ You struggle with sleeping hot: Although the temperature regulation on this mattress was perfectly acceptable, it's not as cool as the Saatva (#1) or specialist models like the Casper Wave Hybrid Snow (#10).
❌ You have a bigger budget: The WinkBed is fairly similar to the Saatva Classic (#1), but the Saatva is better, in our opinion. If you can afford the higher price, that's the one to go for.
❌ You're looking to maximize value for money: The WinkBed is also fairly similar to the DreamCloud (#3). The latter is a bit less luxurious and only comes in one firmness, but it is a fair bit cheaper.
🔎 The WinkBed mattress is a luxurious feeling hybrid that's particularly well suited to anyone suffering from back pain, with zoned coils delivering support exactly where it's needed. You can pick your firmness to suit your sleep position and body type, and the upper foam levels offer comfortable pressure relief.
The WinkBed mattress is a luxury hybrid with a design that includes individually wrapped, zoned coils and gel-infused foam. The four different firmness options means you can pick the version that'll provide the right amount of support for your body type and sleep style. That, combined with the excellent pressure relief offered by the upper levels of cushioning mean this is a top choice for those suffering from back, hip or shoulder pain. We'd consider it a more affordable alternative to the Saatva Classic (#1), or an upgrade on the cheaper DreamCloud (#3).
What's it like to sleep on?
We tested out the luxury firm (6.5 out of 10) version, and think it'd be a great choice for most people. The coil layer is zoned to provide sturdiness or softness just where it's needed – notably, there's extra support under the lumbar to promote good spinal alignment, which is vital if you suffer back pain (or want to avoid it). Meanwhile, the upper foam layers deliver first-class pressure relief, with a moderate level of contouring and plenty of cushioning.
Lightweight side sleepers should consider the soft version (4.5 out of 10), while the firm option (7.5) might be a better pick for stomach and back sleepers between 230 and 250lb, who need to sleep on top of the mattress, and avoid sinking in too much. The Plus (8) is designed for bigger bodies over 250lb, and has a very different design.
During our review period, we found the WinkBed offered excellent motion isolation, making it a strong choice for restless sleepers as well as anyone who shares a bed. We were also impressed with this mattress' sturdy edges, which are comfortable to sit on and can be used to press on to get up. Our only slight complaint was with the temperature regulation, which was good but not amazing.
Buying information
WinkBeds has a permanent discount that knocks $300 off all sizes, putting it at the top of the upper mid-range bracket (and a fair bit more affordable than the Saatva at #1). This deal has remained constant since we started tracking prices, and doesn't increase over national holidays or any of the other usual sales events. WinkBeds charges a $49 fee if you need to swap to a different firmness level after purchase.
- Read more: WinkBed mattress review
Best budget cooling mattress
✅ You sleep warm: The Chill has a phase-change cover that works effectively to prevent overheating. Our testers were impressed with how cool it kept them.
✅ You're on a budget: Most specialist cooling beds sit in the premium price bracket. This is the coolest mattress we've tested in the mid-range price bracket.
✅ You need some pressure relief: We rate the Chill highly on pressure relief. The upper layer of memory foam provides comfortable cushioning without too much of that sink-in feel.
❌ You sleep really hot: While the Chill delivers great temperature regulation for the price, it doesn't sleep as cool as specialist models like the Casper Wave Hybrid Snow (#10). The hybrid chill will also likely sleep cooler than the all-foam.
❌ You don't struggle with overheating: The Nectar Memory Foam (#2) is a close rival, and a slightly better all-round mattress, with a longer trial, if you don't need the special cooling cover.
❌ You weigh over 230lb: The heavier members of our testing panel didn't feel properly supported, so if you're on the heavier side, look for a firmer mattress.
🔎 The Cocoon by Sealy Chill is a memory foam bed in a box with a special phase change cover that does an excellent job of regulating temperature. This is the coolest bed we've tested in the lower mid-range price bracket, and a good alternative to the Nectar for hot sleepers on a budget.
The Cocoon Chill the best mattress for hot sleepers on a smaller budget. It comes from major bed brand Sealy and is available as an all-foam model or a hybrid with springs (we're focusing on the former here). Whichever version you choose, you'll benefit from the temperature-regulating phase-change cover. What's especially notable is that this mattress sits in the lower-mid price bracket, whereas most specialist cooling mattresses are far more expensive. It has a similar design and price to the Nectar (#2) and is a better option if you sleep hot.
What's it like to sleep on?
During our review period, we were very impressed with how well the Chill regulated temperature – the phase-change cover ensured our testers didn't overheat once, even the ones that usually tend to run hot. While it won't chill you out as effectively as the very best cooling mattresses on the market, those typically sit comfortably in the premium price bracket, whereas the Chill is mid-range or upper-mid. It's absolutely the coolest mattress we've found in this price bracket.
If you can spend a bit more, consider upgrading to the hybrid version (the springs boost breathability but creating space for air to circulate), or a specialist model like the Casper Wave Hybrid Snow (#10). The latter is much more of an investment, though.
Although the Chill includes a top layer of memory foam, you sleep fairly close to the top of this mattress rather than sinking in too deeply. There's still plenty of pressure relief, and this mattress is very good at absorbing movements, which is good news for anyone who shares a bed. The medium-firm sleep feel will suit most sleeping positions and is especially comfortable for side sleeping. We'd recommend it to lighter or average-weight sleepers – those over 230lb should seek something firmer.
Buying information
There's a permanent deal that knocks 35% off ticket prices and takes the Chill mattress into the lower mid-range bracket, and you'll typically get a free bedding bundle too. The hybrid version costs between $80 and $200 more, depending on size. Cocoon doesn't typically increase its discounts over sales events, so you don't need to be strategic about when you buy. The extras are fine – a 100-night trial and 10-year warranty – but not as good as you'll find with competitor Nectar.
- Read more: Cocoon Chill Memory Foam mattress review
Best mattress for joint pain
✅ You have sore joints: The Purple Grid manages to be soft or firm exactly where its needed, shaping around your joints and providing cushioned comfort.
✅ You prefer a responsive sleep surface: The Grid bounces back immediately when pressure is removed, making it easy to change position on.
✅ You sleep warm: While foams can cling on to body heat, the Purple Grid has an open structure that allows air to move though, keeping the sleeper cool.
❌ You prefer a traditional sleep feel: The Grid gives this mattress an unusual feel that won't appeal to everyone. The Saatva (#1) has a more traditional innerspring feel.
❌ You need good edge support: In our tests, we felt the perimeter of this mattress could have been sturdier. If want to be able to use the edges of your mattress to press up off, this might not be the best pick.
❌ You want maximum value: Sales on this premium mattress are pretty rare and the extras aren't super generous. You're getting a far more comprehensive package with the similarly priced Saatva (#1), or even the lower mid-range Nectar (#2).
🔎 The Purple Original has a bouncy, elastic grid layer that adapts to relieve pressure, and manages to be soft or firm exactly where needed. The open structure means it won't trap body heat like foams can, but the unusual sleep feel isn't for everyone.
The Purple Plus is is an outlier in our best mattress ranking in that there are no springs and no memory foam. Instead, comfort and support comes via this brand's unique 'GelFlex Grid', a responsive, stretchy elastic polymer that responds to the sleepers body shape to offer custom support and pressure relief. The Plus model also adds extra foam layers compared to the Original.
What's it like to sleep on?
The Purple Grid gives this mattress a distinctive feel. You'll sink in slightly, but mostly it feel like you're floating on the surface. It also manages to be somehow soft and firm at the same time, ultimately delivering support just where it's needed. In our tests we judged it to be somewhere between a 6 and a 7.5 out of 10, but our reviewers found it felt soft under the shoulders, hips and knees, with firmer support around the lumbar.
All that makes the Purple Plus a good choice for those suffering from sore joints, as the elastic Grid will flex comfortably around your curves. Unlike a slow-moving memory foam, the Grid bounces back immediately once you remove weight from it. That means it's easier to change position on, but be aware you won't get that soothing, body-cradling feel that memory foam delivers. The unusual sleep feel won't appeal to everyone, either. However, we found it comfortable in any position, and think it's suitable for most body types too.
Thanks to its open structure, the Grid doesn't cling on to body heat like foams can, making it nice and breathable and suitable for hot sleepers. This mattress also scored highly on motion isolation, but be aware the edge support is a little lackluster, so one to avoid if you know you want to be able to use the mattress to push up off to get up, for instance.
Buying information
Purple isn't one of those brands that always has a sale on, so it's worth being tactical about when you buy. You'll often find $200 off all sizes around national holidays, but on the Plus model specifically we've also seen $400 off after those sales events. The extras are a stingy for the price – you'll have 100 nights to test it out, and a 10-year warranty.
- Read more: Purple Plus mattress review
Best mattress under $500
✅ You're on a budget: At under $500 for a queen, the Siena is extremely budget-friendly. From the same parent company as Nectar, it's the best quality mattress we've tested in this price category.
✅ You're a back or stomach sleeper: The firm sleep feel provides ample spinal support that's perfect mattress for those who like to lie on their front or back.
✅ You need a mattress with sturdy edges: The Siena has some of the best edge support we've come across – useful if you want to be able to sit comfortably on the edge of your bed.
❌ You're a side sleeper: The firm feel of the Siena might cause pressure to build up in the shoulder for some side sleepers. Consider something with more give, like the Helix Midnight (#4) or Nectar (#2).
❌ You can afford the Nectar instead: The Siena is a great budget-friendly mattress, but if you can push to the slightly higher price, the Nectar (#2) is a better all-rounder, with a much longer trial and warranty.
❌ You sleep really hot: We found the Siena's temperature regulation pretty good for the price bracket, but if you struggle with sleeping hot, consider upgrading to the Cocoon (#6).
🔎 The Siena Memory Foam mattress is a budget-friendly model from the same parent company as Nectar, and hands-down the best quality mattress we've tested in this price bracket. The all-foam design sleeps very firm, so it's best suited to back or stomach sleepers and anyone seeking sturdy support.
The Siena is a budget bed-in-a-box from the same parent company as Nectar and DreamCloud, and aims to deliver better sleep comfort for a lower price. With a queen typically coming in under $500, it's one of the budget-friendly options in our list, and the best quality mattress we've tested in this price bracket, bar none. The 10-inch deep design combines layers of contouring memory foam and supportive polyfoam, with a soft-touch breathable cover to top things off.
What's it like to sleep on?
The Siena contours subtly to your body and distributes your weight evenly, making for a firmly supportive sleep surface. Officially, it's a 6.5 on the firmness scale, but we think it's more like a 9. Side sleepers will probably need a bit of time to break it in (and ultimately might find it doesn't offer enough pressure relief around their shoulders and hips). However, for back or stomach sleepers, the extra support is very welcome, ensuring the lumbar doesn't drop too low and the spine remains in neutral alignment.
One common issue with memory foam is that it can trap body heat, and amongst the other customer reviews there are some comments about this Siena sleeping hot. During our tests we were actually pretty impressed with the Siena's temperature regulation properties, especially for the low price. However, really hot sleepers should still consider a dedicated cooling mattress – the Cocoon Chill at #6 is our favorite budget-friendly offering.
In our tests, this mattress scored highly on edge support. If you need to be able to sit comfortably on the edge of your bed, or use the mattress to push up off to get up, the Siena will do the job perfectly. Rather surprisingly, given the firmness level, we we also found it absorbed movements especially well, making it suitable for those who are a bed.
Buying information
The Siena has been discounted since it launched in March 2022, and for several months there has been $300 off all sizes. Siena doesn't bump up its discounts for national holidays or sales events, which is fair enough given the pricing is so low anyway. The extras (180 night trial, 10-year warranty) are good for a budget mattress, but not as generous as you'll get with sister brand Nectar (#2).
- Read more: Siena Memory Foam mattress review
Best organic mattress
✅ You want a natural mattress: The USP here is that the Awara is made with natural and organic materials, including cotton, wool and latex.
✅ You want a mattress that will last: Latex is one of the most durable mattress materials, and we were especially impressed with the build quality of the Awara. This mattress should stand the test of time.
✅ You don't like the sink-in feel of foam: The Awara offers a floating sleep feel, with some contouring but none of the quicksand feel of memory foam.
❌ You weigh under 130lb: This is a firmer mattress, so lightweight sleepers might want to opt for something with more give in order to get the support they need.
❌ You share a bed: We experienced some motion transfer with the Awara, so you might find your partner's movements reverberating across the bed.
❌ You want a sink-in feel: The Awara offers some contouring, but for the full joint-hugging feel you'll need memory foam. Try the Nectar (#2) or Helix (#4).
🔎 The Awara Natural Hybrid Mattress swaps synthetic materials for natural alternatives. The latex foam comfort layer offers subtle contouring and a weightless feel, but doesn't isolate movements as well as synthetic foams. We were impressed with the build quality – especially considering it's cheaper than most organic mattresses.
The Awara Natural Hybrid mattress is a great option for eco-conscious shoppers who want to make a more sustainable choice. It swaps synthetic foams for natural latex, which provides similar contouring but a bouncier, more responsive feel. It's typically more durable than synthetic foam too, and better at regulating temperature. Here it's paired with breathable cotton and wool, and a layer of wrapped 8 inch coils. You'll always pay a bit of a premium for an organic mattress, but this model is cheaper than most of its competitors, yet still has a luxurious vibe, and our panel all agreed it felt especially well-made.
What's it like to sleep on?
When our testers first laid on the Awara Natural Hybrid mattress, they were concerned it might be too firm. Those concerns turned out to be short-lived – the foams quickly contoured to our sleepers' bodies, ultimately providing a gentle amount of give and good pressure relief. Rather than the sink-in feel of memory foam, this mattress delivers a comfortable floating sensation. As one of the firmest options in our best mattress guide, it would be a good option for heavier bodies or anyone who knows their preference is for sturdy support. Our testers found it was comfortable in any sleep position, but those under 130lb and anyone who prefers a more plush feel might find it a bit too solid.
Although the coil layer is designed to absorb movements, we found motion isolation wasn't great in this mattress – light sleepers who share a bed might find themselves disturbed by their partner's movements, so might be better off with a memory foam model instead.
Buying information
You should never have to pay full price for the Awara. Expect $400 off all sizes (in the past, we've seen a higher mattress price and a bundle of free bedding, but that offer seems to have been retired). These deals tend to remain stable, so it doesn't really matter when you buy. Because this mattress is from the same parent brand as Nectar, you'll get the same outstanding extras – a full year's trial and forever warranty. Overall, it's incredible value for money.
- Read more: Awara Natural Hybrid Mattress review
Best premium cooling mattress
✅ You sleep hot: The Wave Hybrid Snow did an incredible job of keeping our reviewers the right temperature throughout our month-long testing period.
✅ You're a restless sleeper: This mattress absorbs movements extremely well, making it a good choice for anyone who tends to toss and turn at night.
✅ You lie on your back or stomach: The Wave Hybrid Snow is zoned to ensure proper spinal support, especially beneath the lumbar. The firm yet cushioned feel is ideal for back or stomach sleepers.
❌ You don't sleep especially hot: If you don't need the extra cooling features, there are plenty of other, more afforable options to choose from (the Saatva Classic at #1 is our absolute favorite).
❌ You want plenty of time to test it out: A 100 night trial is about the shortest you'll find anywhere – our top 3 picks give you a full year, which allows you to test the mattress out in all seasons.
❌ You weigh under 130lb: Lightweight sleepers might find this Casper model a bit too firm. Check out the Zoma Boost for a similarly cool, softer alternative.
🔎 The Casper Wave Hybrid Snow is the priciest model in our guide, but if you struggle with sleeping hot it could be worth the investment – this mattress offers exceptional cooling. We were also very impressed with the comfort and support on offer here, but less enamored with the short trial period.
If you have a bit of cash to splash, the Casper Wave Hybrid Snow is one of the very best mattresses around. The most advanced bed in Casper's range, it delivers exceptional support and motion isolation, but the real star of the show is this mattress' cooling powers. The 'Snow' of the name refers to two bits of extra sleep tech that combine to keep you 6 degrees cooler. Inside the mattress are bands that are meant to pull excess heat from the body throughout the night. These work alongside a cool-to-the-touch cover with an extra layer of cooling gel.
What's it like to sleep on?
Plenty of brands talk a big game when it comes to temperature regulation, but this Casper mattress really delivers on those claims. Our reviewers ended the month-long review period extremely impressed with this bed's chilling powers, having been kept comfortably cool throughout. We rate this one of the very best cooling mattresses around.
The Casper Wave Hybrid Snow doesn't disappoint on the comfort front, either. There's plenty of intriguing tech – we've never seen gel pods under the waist and back for spinal alignment, for instance – but all seems to do the job. We found this mattress provided plenty of firm yet comfortable support, making it a great choice for back sleepers or anyone struggling with neck or back pain. It also isolated motion very well, making it a good choice if you share a bed with a restless partner.
Any potential issues? The edge support is fine but not exceptional, which is something to bear in mind if you need something sturdy to press off to get up in the mornings. And lighter weight side sleepers might find a softer bed more comfortable.
Buying information
It pays to be tactical about when you buy from this brand – discounts tend to appear around national holidays, and generally knock 20% or occasionally a little more off the Wave Hybrid Snow. You can also often snag a discount if you sign up to the Casper mailing list (wait for a popup to appear on the brand website). The extras are disappointing for the price – you'll get a 100 night trial and a 10-year warranty.
- Read more: Casper Wave Hybrid Snow mattress review
How we test mattresses
The Tom's Guide mattress review process is editorially independent and not influenced by any third parties. Our expert mattress testers sleep on each mattress for at least three weeks – roughly how long it takes for your body to get used to a new mattress – before writing up their thoughts. We also run a series of tests using weights to gain an objective view of how the mattress performs compared to other models.
Mattress firmness is subjective, so each lead reviewer also forms part of a trusted and experienced testing panel made up of people with different sleep needs and body types. We have side sleepers, back sleepers and stomach sleepers, with lighter, average and heavier bodies, who rate each mattress using a specific set of performance criteria.
Together, these processes enable us to produce accurate, well-balanced and data-backed mattress reviews, to help you easily decide whether the mattress you’re interested in really is the best choice for you.
- Expert reviewers with substantial hands-on experience of testing a wide range of mattresses
- A diverse panel of mattress testers, with different body types, heights and sleep-position preferences
Our testing process includes:
- Testing each mattress across all key data points, including support, comfort, pressure relief, motion isolation and temperature regulation
- Analyzing user reviews to get an understanding of what real customers think of each mattress, and get a feel for any recurring themes, whether positive or negative, which we explore these further during our testing process
- Fact-checking every comfort / support claim made by a mattress brand
How to choose the best mattress
The only way to truly know whether a mattress is right for you is to sleep on it. That's why all the options in our best mattress guide come with a risk-free trial. During this time, if you decide your purchase isn't quite right for you, you can send it back and try another. 100 nights used to be the standard, but now 200 nights is pretty common, and some brands even let you trial a mattress for a full year before committing to keeping it.
That said, it's easier if you choose right the first time around. On that note, there are some key things to know that will help you choose the right mattress first time around. Here, we'll answer some common questions people ask when buying a new mattress, and explain some key considerations to make. We'll also share our pro tips for choosing the best mattress for your budget, and recap the best-rated mattresses at the moment.
Which is the best type of mattress?
There isn't a single best type of mattress. Everyone is different, so the right type for you depends on your body, health and your sleep style. Personal preference comes into it, but there are some rules of thumb that can help you narrow down your options.
Let's take a look at the main types of mattress, and the typical pros and cons of each...
Memory foam mattresses
Memory foam is a great option for anyone who likes to feel 'hugged' by their mattress. This material contours to your body, providing better pressure relief than spring-based options. It's also typically excellent at absorbing motion, which makes it a top choice for anyone who shares a bed with a restless partner.
Because foam has a relatively dense structure, all-foam mattresses typically sleep warmer at night than models with springs (which provide space for air to circulate). Older and cheaper memory foams can be particularly bad for trapping body heat, but technologies have progressed so that today's best memory foam mattresses are much better at regulating temperature.
If you overheat at night, you may prefer to avoid an all-foam mattress. But if you love the cushioning feel of memory foam, there are plenty of 'cooling' foam mattresses. These range in price from the budget-friendly Cocoon Chill Memory Foam mattress to the Tempur-Breeze, which is much more of an investment purchase.
- Read more: What is a memory foam mattress?
Innerspring mattresses
Innerspring beds use metal coils to provide comfort and structure. Originally, innerspring mattresses were made with interconnected coils, but nowadays it's much more common that the coils are individually wrapped inside their own fabric pocket (in the UK, they're called 'pocket sprung' mattresses). Because these springs can move independently, they provide better pressure relief, greater comfort and more effective motion isolation than an interconnected coil system would.
The quantity, height and design of the coils vary from model to model. Generally speaking, the more pocket springs in a mattress, the better the support. Most innerspring mattresses will have some kind of comfort layer at the top, to provide padding between the sleeper and the springs – this might be a pillow top or wool layer.
One key difference between innerspring mattresses and all-foam options is that they're buoyant: you sleep on top of them, rather than sinking in. The more responsive sleep surface means they're easier to move around on than many all-foam models, too.
Innerspring mattresses don't tend to trap heat in the same way that all-foam models can, because there's plenty of space within the mattress for air to circulate. Because you're sleeping closer to the surface of the mattress, they can feel cooler than a body-hugging memory foam model, too.
- Read more: What is an innerspring mattress?
Hybrid mattresses
A hybrid is any mattress that includes more than one main type of material. In practice, that usually means memory foam plus springs, but occasionally the combination might also include something like latex. It's difficult to make generalizations about hybrid mattresses because the sleep feel will depend heavily on the relative amounts of the different materials and their position in the design. However, anything with a spring layer will typically be more breathable than an all-foam mattress. Many of our best mattress picks are hybrids, simply because they can offer the best of both worlds – the pressure relief of foam, but with a little more responsiveness, for example.
- Read more: What is a hybrid mattress?
Latex mattresses
Latex mattresses use a durable latex foam made from natural materials, rather than synthetic materials (which memory foam mattresses are made from). If you're looking for an organic mattress, latex is the best mattress material for you.
It isn't as dense as memory foam, which makes latex mattresses less prone to overheating. Latex also provides good contouring and bounce. On top of that, the durability makes latex a fantastic investment if you want your mattress to really last, but it doesn't come cheap. Read our best organic mattress guide for latex options. , and learn more about this specific type of mattress in our feature answering
- Read more: What is an organic mattress?
Mattress buying advice
How long does a mattress last?
On average, a good mattress should last seven to eight years, but this depends on various factors including what type of mattress you own, what it's made of, how often it's used, and how many of you sleep on it. (We explain more in our feature answering how long does a mattress last?).
So a guest room mattress used only occasionally may last a little longer than the general guidelines, while the main mattress on your bed – unless it's a good quality mattress – will wear out in less than seven years.
The manufacturer's warranty is a good indication of how long the mattress should last, but you will need to care for it properly too. Cleaning your mattress regularly will help it last longer (see our guide on how to clean a mattress).
How to choose the right mattress size
One golden rule for choosing the right size of mattress is to make sure it's 10cm longer than the tallest person sleeping on it. Width-wise, if you're sharing a bed, you and your partner should be able to put your hands under your head without your elbows touching.
If you sleep alone, you'll have the right size mattress if you can put your hands under your head without touching the edges. So measure that distance and as long as you choose a mattress wider than that, you're good.
Most options listed in our best mattress guide are available in: twin size, twin XL, full size, queen size, king size and California king. Some come in split options too, which enables you to choose a different mattress firmness to your partner.
How to choose the right mattress firmness
Medium firm is the most popular mattress choice – that's why most flagship mattresses fall within a range of 5-7 on the firmness scale (10 is the firmest).
However, sleep feel is subjective. Firmness and comfort depend on a wide range of factors including your weight, height, sleeping style and whether you experience any pain, such as in your back or hips. One person's experience of a mattress can be very different to someone else's.
That's why we use a range of different people to test our mattresses – and it's also why we look through other user reviews to get an overview of as many people's experiences as possible. Keep this in mind when noting our 1-10 firmness rating, as you may find a mattress to be slightly softer or firmer than we found it.
Nevertheless, there is some broad advice for deciding which level of mattress firmness you might be best-suited to...
1. Consider your sleeping position
Back sleepers often benefit from a medium-firm mattress. This provides neutral spine alignment while supporting the hips and shoulders. If a mattress is too soft, back sleepers may find their spine forming an uncomfortable 'U' shape, creating strain. Too firm and the natural 'S' curve of your spine won't be supported.
Side sleepers need good pressure relief on their shoulders, knees and hips. A medium to medium-soft mattress is usually a good choice. If it's too soft, the spine won't align properly with the shoulders and hips. Memory foam is often the best mattress choice for side sleepers due to its above-average contouring. For more advice, read our guide to the best mattress for side sleepers.
Front sleepers fare better with a firmer mattress. This lifts the hips up so that they're in alignment with the spine, and prevents the spine from forming a 'U' shape. If it's too firm it'll be uncomfortable - particularly for women - and won't allow the spine to curve naturally. Too soft and it can feel almost suffocating. Innerspring and hybrid mattresses can be a better choice than foam for front sleepers.
Combination sleepers should choose according to their dominant sleep position (the position you normally fall asleep in). If you don't have one, a medium firm mattress will dish out the best support and comfort across most positions.
2. Consider your body weight
Sleepers weighing 130lbs and below don't sink as far into a mattress and are often well-suited to softer options: between 2 and 4 on the firmness scale. However, a medium-firm mattress would also be a good choice.
Sleepers weighing 130-230lbs are often better-suited to medium and medium-firm mattresses, between 5-7 on the firmness scale.
Sleepers who weigh 230lbs or more can be well-suited to firmer mattresses, between an 8-10 rating, which prevent them sinking through the comfort layers.
What is the best mattress in 2023?
If you can afford it, the Saatva Classic is the best mattress around. Or if that's out of your budget, our best value pick is the Nectar Memory Foam mattress.
The Saatva is a luxury innerspring model with a classic mattress feel, and it aced our tests, scoring highly for pressure relief, temperature regulation and edge support. Its 'Lumbar Zone Technology' feature has been given the stamp of approval by the American Chiropractic Association too, making it a great choice for those suffering from back pain. It's well worth the investment, but if you keep an eye out you can usually snag a discount.
Alternatively, the Nectar is the perfect choice if you have a lower budget or prefer the 'hug' of memory foam. It's comfortable and supportive, and extremely competitively priced with regular, generous discounts.
When is the best time to buy a new mattress?
There are mattress sales all year round. Some brands pretty much always have the same deal on, others mix things up with different offers on different models at different times, so you need to be more strategic about when you buy.
The lowest prices of the year tend to appear in November in the form of Black Friday mattress deals and Cyber Monday mattress deals, and in February, during the Presidents' Day mattress sales. The latter is when people slowly start spending again following the January lull, and retailers look to stoke interest with strong offers and prices that are often as low as Black Friday.
The Memorial Day mattress sales are another key time to buy a new mattress, as retailers look to make way for newer models launching over the summer by discounting older stock. For the sheer volume and variety of discounted mattresses, it's as good as Black Friday, but we've noticed prices don't always dip quite as low. You might see the same discount advertised – $200 off, say – but the price may have gone up, so while the mattress is cheaper than its previous full price, you'd have saved more if you bought it in the November or February.
The same can be said of the July 4th mattress sales and Labor Day mattress sales: discounts typically match those offered during other major holidays, but many of the prices aren't quite the lowest. They're generally still good deals though, and worth grabbing if you need a new mattress.
Here's when you shouldn't buy a new mattress if you can help it: over the summer. This is the most expensive time of the year, with prices generally at their maximum. You might see similar discounts advertised, once again, but prices can be as much as $200 more than at other times of the year.
What is the most comfortable mattress for the money?
This depends on what type of mattress you enjoy sleeping on, as firmness and comfort are very subjective. For side sleepers, we think the most comfortable mattress is the Helix Midnight. The dreamy upper layers of memory foam relieve pressure all along your shoulders, hips and knees. Back sleepers might prefer the DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid – our testers found it super-comfortable in this position.
Overall, the most comfortable mattress is the Saatva Classic. It comes in three different firmness levels and two heights to offer you the comfort, support and mattress depth you need for a great night's sleep.
