The Best Mattress for Every Sleeper and Budget in 2024

What’s the best mattress for quality rest? We break it all down in this comprehensive guide, covering everything from mattress types to financial factors.

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When you lead an active lifestyle, a good night’s rest is key to your recovery and your mattress is an essential part of that equation. The best mattress supports your body as you sleep, relieves aches and pains and promotes quality rest. So if your current mattress is older than 10 years, sagging or just unsupportive, it may be time to explore other options.

As you begin your search for the best mattress, you’ll find that durability, pressure relief and sleep position are all factors to consider. There are also several different mattress types to choose from, like memory foam or innerspring, each with their own pros and cons.

Sound like a lot to keep up with? We’re here to help. While each person has distinct sleep needs and preferences, our comprehensive guide breaks down the most important factors to finding the best mattress for you.

Our picks for the best mattress:

1. Best Mattress for Side Sleepers: Helix Midnight
2. Best Mattress for Back Pain: Saatva Classic
3. Best Affordable Mattress: Nectar
4. Best Luxury Mattress: DreamCloud Premier
5. Best Durable Mattress: WinkBeds EcoCloud
6. Best Mattress for Athletes: Bear Hybrid
7. Best Hybrid Mattress: Casper Wave Hybrid
8. Best Mattress for Back Sleepers: Leesa Original
9. Best Mattress for Plus-Size People: Titan Plus
10. Best Mattress for Couples: Nolah Evolution 

Best Mattress for Side Sleepers: Helix Midnight

Helix

Key Features:

• Mattress type: Hybrid
• Firmness: Medium firm
• Trial period: 100 nights
• Warranty: 10 years

If you’re like more than 50% of people and sleep on your side, it’s important to find a mattress that adequately contours to your hips and shoulders. This design relieves pressure from your neck, shoulders and lower back—the areas that bear the most weight when sleeping on your side. The Helix Midnight’s hybrid construction makes it one of the best mattresses for side sleepers. It features a layer of memory foam on top of a system of innerspring coils, which work together to provide the ideal amount of pressure relief and support. Sink into the first two foam layers of soft cushioning, while the coils below support healthy spine alignment.

The testing team loves this mattress for the way it hugs your side, earning it an 8.5 out of 10 in pressure relief. And for side sleepers who occasionally switch to their backs or stomachs, you’ll like how well the Helix Midnight adapts to your movements for easy transitions. Priced at just a little over $1,000, the Helix Midnight is also one of the most affordable beds to make our list.

Pros:

• Excellent motion isolation means you won’t feel your partner tossing and turning all night

Cons:

• Heavyweight sleepers will need a mattress with more support 

Best Mattress for Back Pain: Saatva Classic

Saatva

Key Features:

• Mattress type: Hybrid
• Firmness: Plush soft, luxury firm or firm
• Trial period: 365 days
• Warranty: Lifetime

A step up from a traditional innerspring mattress, the Saatva Classic consistently performs well with our testing team thanks to its supportive base, durable construction and varying firmness options. Pick from plush soft, luxury firm or firm based on your body type and sleep position. No matter which firmness you choose, the Saatva has an impressively sturdy foundation. The base is made up of over 400 steel coils and reinforced by a high-density foam perimeter. During testing, we found it relieved nearly all pressure from the lower back, earning a perfect 10 out of 10 in spine alignment (a measure of how well a mattress supports your spine’s natural S curve).

The Saatva Classic’s thick memory foam layer and three-inch pillow top create an ultra-soft sleep surface, allowing you to sink into the mattress just enough without compromising support. It’s great for those with back pain and anyone who loves the feeling of an ultra-supportive bed. White glove delivery takes care of the set-up and with a 365-day sleep trial and lifetime warranty, it's easier than ever to check out Saatva's Classic mattress for yourself.

Pros:

• Promotes excellent spinal alignment
• Great for those with back pain

Cons:

• Not the best motion isolation—people who are easily disturbed by their partner’s movement should look elsewhere 

Best Affordable Mattress: Nectar

Nectar

Key Features:

• Mattress type: Memory foam
• Firmness: Medium-firm
• Trial period: 365 nights
• Warranty: Lifetime

Combining affordability with high-quality materials, the Nectar mattress packs in a lot of value. It’s a three-layer memory foam mattress topped with a quilted, breathable cover. The testing team loves this mattress for its balanced feel—unlike some memory foam beds on the market, you won’t feel like you’re sinking into this mattress. It’s firm enough to offer pushback against your movements, but soft enough to cradle your body in comfort.

When we tested the Nectar, we found that it was easy to transition between sleeping positions. It earned an 8.5 out of 10 in responsiveness, as well as equally high scores in motion transfer and pressure relief. The one group that may not enjoy the Nectar, however, is hot sleepers. Its dense memory foam construction tends to retain more heat than a mattress made with coils. But at just over $1,000 for a queen, plus a one-year sleep trial and lifetime warranty, the Nectar’s value can’t be ignored.

Pros:

• Easy to transition between sleeping positions
• Strikes an excellent balance between soft and firm

Cons:

• Retains more heat than a coil mattress

Best Luxury Mattress: DreamCloud Premier

DreamCloud

Key Features:

• Mattress type: Hybrid
• Firmness: Medium-firm
• Trial period: 365 nights
• Warranty: Lifetime

After a long day, sink into the luxurious DreamCloud Premier. Its six-layer construction consists of 8.5 inches of individually-wrapped coils and three layers of memory foam, followed by a pillow top and soft cashmere cover. When we tested this mattress, we found that it neutralized pressure points on the shoulders, torso and hips. It earned a nine out of 10 in pressure relief, with equally high scores in responsiveness and durability.

If you sleep with a partner or pet who moves around at night, it’s important that your mattress limits movement from one side of the bed to the other. The DreamCloud Premier excels at isolating motion: When one mattress tester was blindfolded, they couldn’t feel the other tester tossing and turning next to them. These high-end touches do come at a cost. With a price point over $2,000 for a queen, the DreamCloud Premier is for those ready to invest in their sleep.

Pros:

• Does a great job at isolating movement

Cons:

• More expensive than other similar mattresses

Best Durable Mattress: WinkBeds EcoCloud

WinkBeds

Key Features:

• Mattress type: Hybrid
• Firmness: Medium
• Trial period: 120 nights
• Warranty: Lifetime

With quality materials and consistently high performance in testing, we dubbed the WinkBeds EcoCloud the "most durable mattress" on our list. It combines two of the sturdiest mattress materials, latex and innerspring coils, to create a supportive construction. To evaluate durability, the testing team assesses the quality of materials, structural support and expected lifespan of the mattress. The WinkBeds EcoCloud earned a perfect 10 in this category, which is why we love this mattress for heavyweight sleepers or couples (more weight increases pressure on a mattress’ structure).

Topped with materials like organic cotton, latex and wool, the WinkBeds EcoCloud is named for its use of eco-friendly materials. The coils are recycled and the Talalay latex is naturally sourced. Due to its latex and coil build, combination sleepers especially love this bed’s bouncy, responsive feel. Latex is a naturally buoyant material.

Pros:

• Super durable
• Uses eco-friendly materials

Cons:

• Not the best motion isolation 

Best Mattress for Athletes: Bear Hybrid

Bear

Key Features:

• Mattress type: Hybrid
• Firmness: Medium firm
• Trial period: 120 nights
• Warranty: Lifetime

Whether you regularly partake in pickup games or train with a competitive team, it’s important that your bed relieves, rather than exacerbates, sore muscles. Our mattress pick for athletes is the Bear Hybrid, a mattress backed by a near-perfect score of 9.5 of 10 in both spine alignment and durability. It’s made from over 1,300 individually-wrapped coils and topped with two layers of foam, including a unique copper-infused foam that helps to dissipate heat.

Testers describe the Bear Hybrid’s firmness as 6.5 out of 10, classifying it as a medium-firm bed. This means it offers a balance of support and comfort, appealing to many kinds of sleepers. However, we don’t recommend this bed for side sleepers. When we tested this mattress, we found it lacking in pressure relief.

Pros:

• Excellent spinal alignment and durability

Cons:

• Lacks pressure relief

Best Hybrid Mattress: Casper Wave Hybrid

Casper

Key Features:

• Mattress type: Hybrid
• Firmness: Medium-firm
• Trial period: 100 nights
• Warranty: 10 years

Hybrid mattresses use two or more mattress materials to create a best-of-both-worlds effect. If you want the contouring feature of a memory foam bed and the support of an innerspring mattress, consider the Casper Wave Hybrid. It uses an innerspring coil base surrounded by a firm foam border. On top of the coils, a layer of gel pods is designed to flex under areas like the hips and shoulders, while providing firmer support underneath the hips. The top of the mattress is made up of two comforting memory foam layers, along with a gel-infused surface to keep you cool.

We love this mattress for its excellent spine alignment results in the testing lab—this bed actually protects your back while you rest. Like the rest of Casper’s mattress line, testers found the Casper Wave Hybrid scored high in nearly every category, solidifying its universal appeal to a variety of sleep positions and preferences.

Pros:

• Gel-infused surface is designed to keep you cool

Cons:

• Heavier people will likely find this mattress too soft 

Best Mattress for Back Sleepers: Leesa Original

Leesa

Key Features:

• Mattress type: Memory foam
• Firmness: Medium-soft
• Trial period: 100 nights
• Warranty: 10 years

Our testers who tend to sleep on their back look for mattresses that combine support, pressure relief and comfort—and the Leesa Original excels at all three. When testers tried the Leesa in the back sleeping position, they noticed no pinching sensations or unevenly distributed pressure in key areas like the hips and shoulders. This is largely due to the layers of soft memory foam that make up the bed, including a two-inch layer of breathable foam on top of a two-inch layer of memory foam. The final layer is six inches of supportive foam, which ensures the mattress remains durable even after years of use.

The Leesa is a softer bed than some of the other options on this list, creating a more cushioned feel than other firmer memory foam options. This means it’s ideal for light to average weight back sleepers but might not provide enough support for couples or heavier sleepers. It’s also an excellent choice for hot sleepers who still want that signature memory foam feel—its constructed of breathable foam that testers report sleeps cool enough to keep warmer temperature people happy.

Pros:

• Great for hot sleepers who want the feeling of memory foam

Cons:

• May not provide enough support for heavy sleepers or couples

Best Mattress for Plus-Size Sleepers: Titan Plus 

Key Features:

• Mattress type: Hybrid
• Firmness: Firm
• Trial period: 120 nights
• Warranty: 10 years

Larger people, such as tall and plus-sized individuals, often need greater mattress support. (If you’re above 250 pounds or six feet tall, you likely fall into this category.)

The Titan Plus hybrid mattress is constructed of five layers that provide support and cushioning. It combines high-density memory foams with a layer of individually pocketed coils for comfort without the heat of an all-memory-foam mattress—and excellent feature, since heavier sleepers tend to run warm. You can also purchase an optional cooling top panel for additional heat dispersion.

Testers enjoyed the mattress's firm feel and gave it high marks for responsiveness, meaning that sleepers of all sizes won't feel "stuck" in this mattress as they change positions. 

The high-density foams used in this mattress and the strong coil layer make it very durable. Plus, it’s less expensive than many similar options, making it an excellent value.

Pros:

• Provides support for heavier sleepers

Cons:

• Only has average edge support
• Likely too firm for lighter people

Best Mattress for Couples: Nolah Evolution 

Nolah

Key Features:

• Mattress type: Hybrid
• Firmness: Plush, luxury firm, firm
• Trial period: 120 nights
• Warranty: Lifetime

Finding a couples mattress can be difficult because it needs to work for each person’s preferences and sleep style. Luckily, the Nolah Evolution is incredibly well-rounded—our testers ranked it above average in every performance category.

The Evolution is made of nine layers, including two foams that are specifically aimed at cooling, and eight-inch support coils, which the brand claims offer 25 percent more support than those from other brands. Both of these features prove to work beautifully: Our testers loved this mattress’s exceptional cooling, and found it to have excellent support and softness for back and side sleepers.

They also ranked it highly for motion transfer, another important attribute for a couples mattress. Sleepers were able to move around easily at night without disturbing their partner.

Pros:

• Provides excellent pressure relief for back and side sleepers

Cons:

• More expensive than other similar mattresses

What are the different types of mattresses?

Innerspring

Made from rows of coils and usually only topped with a thin layer of foam, innerspring mattresses are best known for their support and bounciness. This bed type also sleeps cool since the coils leave ample room for air to flow.

Memory foam

Memory foam mattresses contain only foam, a material that hugs the contours of your body and relieves pressure points. Memory foam beds give the feeling of sleeping in rather than on your mattress, as the material creates a sinking sensation. This material tends to retain heat, so memory foam beds can sleep hot unless infused with cooling materials like gel.

Latex

A newer mattress type to hit the market, latex beds can be made from either synthetic or natural latex. This style offers the pressure relief of memory foam with the buoyancy of an innerspring bed. Latex is also a naturally springy and breathable material. As one of the most durable mattress materials, latex beds are typically pricier.

Hybrid

Combining the benefits of multiple mattress types, hybrid mattresses use a mix of different materials. The most common construction combines coils with foam, but hybrids can also incorporate latex and other materials. Hybrid mattresses usually give a nice balance of comfort, pressure relief and support, making them a good option for a range of sleep preferences. However, hybrid mattresses are typically the most expensive mattress type available, so budget shoppers might be better off with a memory foam or innerspring option.

How do I pick the best mattress for me?

Body type

Body type plays a central role in determining what kind of mattress will be right for you. Lightweight sleepers tend to lie on top of the mattress surface, while heavyweight sleepers typically sink into the bed. Because of this effect, the same mattress might feel completely different to two people based on their body type.

Be sure to take your specific needs into account when searching for the best mattress for you: Heavyweight sleepers may need a mattress with reinforced support (a bed that contains coils or latex), while lightweight sleepers might be better suited to a softer mattress that conforms to their body.

Sleep position

There are four main sleep positions: side, back, stomach and combination. Side sleepers need a mattress that eases pressure on their hips and shoulders, while also maintaining spine alignment. Back sleepers are a bit easier to accommodate—their main concern is spine alignment.

Those who rest on their stomachs also need to prioritize spine alignment but might require a firmer bed to keep the hips raised. When a stomach sleeper’s hips sink too far into a mattress, it can cause the spine to fall out of alignment. Combination sleepers, or those who toss and turn, need a mattress that quickly responds to their changes in position.

Mattress firmness

The right mattress firmness will depend on your sleep position, body type and comfort preferences. We measure a mattress’ firmness level on a scale of one to 10, where one is the most plush and 10 is extra firm. The majority of mattresses fall somewhere in the middle, around a five to six on the scale. We classify that as medium-firm, a level that tends to work for a wide variety of sleepers.

Responsiveness

Responsiveness measures how well a mattress adapts to your movements. The more responsive a mattress is, the easier it is to move around. If you’re a combination sleeper who switches positions in the night, this factor is especially important. Mattresses made with coils or latex tend to be the most responsive.

Pressure relief

Pressure relief describes how well a mattress contours to areas of stress, alleviating tension. This is an important consideration for side sleepers, or anyone struggling with aches and pains. Memory foam and latex tend to do the best job of relieving pressure.

Durability

A new mattress is a good investment in your sleep, as long as it’s durable. Durability describes how well-made a mattress is, dictating its lifespan. Most mattresses should hold up between five to seven years, but the most durable can last upwards of 10. Hybrid and latex mattresses are typically the most durable bed types.

Cooling

If sleeping hot is a concern of yours, be sure to take cooling features into account. Cooling may also be an important factor for couples, as two bodies tend to create more heat than one. Look for materials like coils, latex, gel-infused foam or perforated foam (where specially designed holes create airflow) to ensure your mattress is cool and comfortable.

Back pain

Professional athlete or not, back pain is a common complaint for many sleepers. A mattress can either help or hurt that problem. The best mattresses for back pain are supportive and maintain spine alignment as you sleep. A supportive mattress should also relieve pressure from your sides and back, helping to cushion sensitive spots.

Medium-firm to firm mattresses tend to provide the best relief for back pain, while something more plush may not provide adequate support.

What should I consider while shopping for the best mattress online?

Shipping

When purchasing a mattress online, shipping is a common concern—when can you expect your new mattress to be delivered? Most online mattresses ship and deliver anywhere from four to 14 days after placing your order. Shipping and delivery are free for most brands unless you’re placing your order from certain areas, like Alaska or Hawaii. In that case, you may have to pay a fee depending on the company’s policies.

Trial period

An advantage to buying a mattress online is the trial period that comes with your purchase. This allows you to test run the mattress for a period of time. If you’re not satisfied with the bed, you can return it for a full refund if you’re within the trial period.

The top mattresses typically offer a 100-night trial, but some online mattress brands are generous enough to offer refunds up to a full year.

Warranty

A mattress warranty protects the mattress from certain defects (which are typically outlined in the brand’s policies) within a specified period of time. Should your mattress show physical flaws like splitting or cracking in one of the layers, brands will replace or refund a mattress that’s still under warranty. The typical warranty length for online mattresses is about 10 years, although some may come with lifetime warranties guaranteeing protection for as long as you own the mattress.

To keep from accidentally voiding your warranty, make sure you’re using the right foundation, such as a platform, box spring and bedframe for your mattress. Most mattress warranties require the buyer to use a sufficient foundation.

Frequently asked questions

How much do the best mattresses cost?

Mattresses can range in price from $900 to over $2,000 for a Queen. Most well-made mattresses hover around the mid-$1,000 mark. Inexpensive options may be tempting, but mattresses at a higher price point often last longer and provide better quality sleep.

When is the best time of the year to get a mattress?

Mattress sales take place multiple times throughout the year, mainly on holidays like Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day. If you’re trying to score the best deal possible, aim to mattress shop on Black Friday or Cyber Monday. These sales typically offer the biggest markdowns on mattresses, allowing you to purchase a high-quality bed at an affordable price.

Also, keep on the lookout for discounts and deals like free accessories that mattress brands can offer at any time throughout the year.

What’s the best mattress for back pain?

The best mattress for back pain isn’t exclusive to one single mattress type or firmness level. A good fit depends on individual factors like your body type and sleeping position. That said, those with back pain often choose mattresses somewhere around the medium-firm to firm mark, a range that supports healthy spine alignment in most sleepers.

What is the best mattress firmness?

Mattresses come in a wide range of firmness levels. The mattress firmness that appeals to the most sleepers is at the middle of the scale, where the bed is plush yet responsive. Remember that, just like with most other mattress factors, the best firmness for you will depend on your own comfort preferences and sleep needs.

How long do memory foam mattresses last?

How long your memory foam mattress lasts depends on a few factors, but the average memory foam bed lasts between five and 10 years. A memory foam mattress that's used daily is going to wear out faster than the one in your guest room. Also, not all foams are equal. Look for memory foam with a 2.5—3.5 pound density. Anything lower won't last as long. Also, if you have a heavier body type, look for firmer layers of foam with strong support layers in order to avoid developing permanent body impressions early on. Finally, to maximize the lifespan of your mattress, keep it away from direct sunlight and use a mattress cover. 

What are the best affordable mattresses?

If you're shopping for an affordable mattress, keep in mind that you get what you pay for. You can find Queen size mattresses on Amazon for under $500, but they won't last as long as, say, a Beautyrest or Tempur-Pedic mattress. They also don't usually have as comprehensive of warranty coverage. Still, there are a few bed-in-a-box companies that keep their prices relatively low without compromising on quality. Helix Sleep and Brooklyn Bedding are two mattress brands that consistently create comfortable, durable mattresses that don't cripple your checking account.

Prices are accurate and items in stock at time of publishing.