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Memory foam was famously invented to help cushion NASA astronauts, but it quickly rose to popularity in the mattress industry. While the material was long associated with expensive luxury mattresses, as it has become more mainstream, an increasing number of affordable memory foam mattresses has entered the market. 

The proliferation of budget-friendly memory foam mattresses has made these more accessible to the general public. However, overall quality and value vary from model to model. Our testing team has analyzed over 2,000 mattresses over the years, including hundreds of memory foam models, so we know what to look for in a new bed. We’ll share our top picks for the best affordable memory foam mattress based on our extensive hands-on testing.

Our #1 Pick: Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex

We’ve selected the Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam as the best affordable memory foam mattress. Its medium firm (6) feel is a good fit for many body types and position preferences, and the design incorporates components for cooling and zoned support that are more common in higher-priced models.

Affordable Memory Foam Mattress Deals Happening Now

How We Test

How We Determine Our Best Overall Score

With each mattress we test, our team follows the same comprehensive research and evaluation methodology to ensure objective, data-based findings. The mattress testing process consists of four stages, beginning with our detailed analysis of the bed’s construction, materials, and firmness. This cursory exam allows us to calculate an expected lifespan to determine our durability score. We also review the brand’s shipping and return policies, as well as its overall reputation for customer service and satisfaction.

The second stage involves hands-on evaluations in our Seattle Test Lab. We use a wide range of tools and technology to determine how well the mattress relieves pressure, isolates motion, regulates temperature, and resists deep compression when weight is applied. Once we’ve finished the lab-based stage, our field testers take the mattresses home and sleep on them in their own bedrooms for 2 to 3 weeks. These in-home experiences capture how the mattress performs night to night in an authentic sleep environment. Lastly, we collect and read verified customer reviews of each product to make sure our findings are in line with the general public.

Throughout this four-step testing process, we record data and notes that contribute to each bed’s overall and individual performance ratings. The graph below shows how every performance metric contributes to product scores.

How We Determine Our Best Overall Score

How We Determine the Best Affordable Memory Foam Mattress

Drawing from a product database that includes more than 2,000 mattress models, our team has narrowed down the best budget-friendly memory foam mattresses on the market today. We made our picks with the following criteria in mind:

  • Quality construction: Cheap memory foam mattresses are a dime a dozen. To curate this list, we focused on memory foam models that exemplify quality materials and construction while still carrying an affordable sticker price.
  • Strong performance: The best budget memory foam mattresses on this page earned high ratings during our hands-on and field testing phases. For many, motion isolation and pressure relief were the major strengths, but some models also received decent marks in other categories like edge support and temperature control.
  • Value over affordability: Even at an unbeatable price, an inexpensive mattress may not be worth the investment if it begins to break down after a year of active use. Our list spotlights low-cost memory foam mattresses that should hold up decently well over time.

After filtering our list down to about 30 models, we ran each candidate through a fresh round of testing to pinpoint the most outstanding performers.

Our Testing Team

Logan Foley

Logan Foley

Executive Product Director

Full Bio

Mary Fenton

Mary Fenton

Head of Product Content

Full Bio

Jeremy Klein

Jeremy Klein

Product Testing Manager

Full Bio

Brad Nehring

Brad Nehring

Product Testing Manager

Full Bio

Colin Simpson

Colin Simpson

Product Research Manager

Full Bio

Rachel Grice

Rachel Grice

Product Content Manager

Full Bio

Best Overall Mattress: Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam

Best Overall Mattress

8.8/10Test Lab Score

Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam

An all-foam mattress that hugs and soothes pressure points for restful sleep.

25% off sitewide with code: LABORDAY25 Shop At Brooklyn Bedding
Price: $649
Mattress Type: Foam
Firmness Options: Medium Firm (6)
Trial Period: 120 nights (30-night requirement)
Key Details
  • Who It’s Best For: Most side and back sleepers, couples, and sleepers prone to upper or lower back pain.
  • Feel: Medium firm (6) feel with a deep hug from the adaptive surface foams and extra pushback beneath the midsection from the zoned support layer.
  • What It’s Made Of: Memory foam and polyfoam comfort layers over zoned transitional polyfoam and a high-density foam support core.
  • What We Don’t Like: This model may feel too soft for back and stomach sleepers over 230 pounds.
Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7/10

130-230 lbs

9/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8/10

130-230 lbs

7/10

Above 230 lbs

6/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8/10

130-230 lbs

6/10

Above 230 lbs

5.5/10

In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.

Performance

Motion Isolation8.5/10
Temperature Control7/10
Pressure Relief9/10
Edge Support7/10
Durability7/10
Ease of Movement6.5/10
Read Our Full Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam Review

The Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam is a versatile mattress that can accommodate a wide range of sleep needs and preferences. This medium firm (6) model incorporates design elements more common in mattresses with higher price tags, and our testing team found it performed well across categories with few notable drawbacks. 

How It Performed

With its medium firm (6) feel and deep comfort system, the Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam was most popular among our side-sleeping testers. Those between 130 and 230 pounds felt particularly comfortable on the mattress, noting a deep cradle that relieved pressure without sacrificing support. Back sleepers up to 230 pounds and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds also enjoyed the light contour and close, body-molding effect.

The Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam’s design also earned high marks for its pressure relief and motion isolation. The polyfoam and memory foam comfort system spreads out weight more evenly to reduce pressure buildup, and also absorbs vibrations to prevent movement from transferring across the surface.

Construction Breakdown

The Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam starts with polyfoam quilted in the cover for cushioning. A layer of memory foam underneath adds a pressure-relieving hug. This material is infused with copper engineered to regulate temperatures, and it also adds antimicrobial properties. Three more layers of polyfoam round out the comfort system, the last of which is zoned to reinforce the lumbar region of the bed and promote good posture. A high-density foam base layer stabilizes the surface.

Trial, Shipping, and Warranty

The Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam comes with free ground shipping in the contiguous U.S. Deliveries to Alaska and Hawaii are available for an additional charge. Your order includes a 120-night sleep trial with a $99 fee for returns, and a lifetime warranty that covers structural and material defects for as long as you own the mattress.

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Best Cooling Mattress: Leesa Original

Best Cooling Mattress

8.2/10Test Lab Score

Leesa Original

High-quality all-foam bed that appeals to most sleepers.

Save up to 30% on Leesa mattresses Shop At Leesa
Price: $1,059
Mattress Type: Foam
Firmness Options: Medium (5)
Trial Period: 120 nights (30-night requirement)
Key Details
  • Who It’s Best For: Hot sleepers who like the feel of memory foam, side sleepers, and couples.
  • Feel: A medium (5) design that provides gentle cushioning and conforming without excessive heat retention.
  • What It’s Made Of: The comfort system features a layer of proprietary open-cell foam over a layer of memory foam, and the support core consists of high-density base foam.
  • What We Don’t Like: Inadequate support for many back and stomach sleepers.
Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

9/10

130-230 lbs

8.5/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7/10

130-230 lbs

6/10

Above 230 lbs

5.5/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6/10

130-230 lbs

5.5/10

Above 230 lbs

5/10

In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.

Performance

Motion Isolation8/10
Motion Isolation
Temperature Control7/10
Temperature Control
Pressure Relief8/10
Pressure Relief
Edge Support6/10
Edge Support
Durability6.5/10
Durability
Ease of Movement7/10
Ease of Movement
Read Our Full Leesa Original Review

The Leesa Original’s balanced all-foam design excels at motion isolation and pressure relief, also incorporating features engineered for cooling. As a medium (5) model, it’s on the softer side and a solid match for many side sleepers. Despite its plusher feel, it doesn’t trap heat as much as many other all-foam models we’ve tested.

How It Performed

Because of its medium (5) feel, the Leesa Original performed best for our side-sleeping testers. Those weighing up to 230 pounds reported balanced contouring and support that eased pressure without letting them sink in too deeply. Some back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds also found that the mattress helped them maintain a neutral sleep position, but those who weigh more said the comfort system was too soft.

Given the memory foam comfort layer and all-foam design, it was no surprise the Leesa Original did well during our motion isolation and pressure relief tests. Its temperature control also exceeded our expectations. The top layer of the comfort system is open-cell polyfoam, so the surface doesn’t trap as much heat compared to models with memory foam on the surface. Another cooling component is the cover, which is made from breathable knit fabric.

Construction Breakdown

The mattress begins with a cover made from a blend of polyester and viscose. A 2-inch layer of adaptive open-cell polyfoam cushions and conforms while allowing air circulation, and this is followed by a 2-inch memory foam layer for additional contouring, cradling, and motion isolation. A 6-inch base layer of high-density foam provides overall stability to the mattress.

Trial, Shipping, and Warranty

The Leesa Original is competitively priced, and shipping is free to all 50 states. The mattress comes with a 120-night sleep trial and a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects.

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Best Mattress for Back Pain: Bear Original

Best Mattress for Back Pain

7.8/10Test Lab Score

Bear Original

An affordable foam bed designed for those with an active lifestyle.

40% sitewide with code: SF40 Shop At Bear
Price: $584
Mattress Type: Foam
Firmness Options: Firm (7)
Trial Period: 120 nights (30-night break-in period)
Key Details
  • Who It’s Best For: Sleepers with frequent or lower back pain and those who prefer minimal hug from their mattress.
  • Feel: A firm (7) feel with very light contouring and a sturdy underlying base that pushes back against your weight.
  • What It’s Made Of: A memory foam comfort layer over transitional polyfoam and high-density base foam. The cover is made of quilted Celliant intended to draw heat away from the surface.
  • What We Don’t Like: This mattress is firmer than the average memory foam model, so some side sleepers may need more cushioning.
Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6.5/10

130-230 lbs

7.5/10

Above 230 lbs

8.5/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6.5/10

130-230 lbs

7/10

Above 230 lbs

6.5/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7/10

130-230 lbs

7/10

Above 230 lbs

6/10

In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.

Performance

Motion Isolation7.5/10
Temperature Control6/10
Pressure Relief6.5/10
Edge Support6.5/10
Durability6.5/10
Ease of Movement7/10
Read Our Full Bear Original Review

The Bear Original is a firm (7) all-foam model built for enhanced support. Sleepers who experience frequent pain from their midsection or hips sagging into their mattress should appreciate the extra pushback and strong overall stability of this mattress, which offers a limited contour to keep your body on a fairly even plane.

How It Performed

In our tests, the Bear Original was suitable for most sleepers across body types and position preferences. Side sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds were the most enthused because their hips and shoulders could sink into the surface without digging in too hard. Due to the firm (7) feel, the Bear Original also performed better during ease of movement tests than many other memory foam models we’ve tested. However, this limited give also means the mattress did not perform as well in motion isolation and pressure relief tests compared to the competition.

Construction Breakdown

A quilted Celliant fabric cover tops the Bear Original Mattress. This material is engineered to regulate temperatures, and the quilting adds some surface-level cushioning. Memory foam conforms to the sleeper’s body, and this top layer is infused with cooling gel to draw heat away from the surface. Transitional polyfoam provides additional cushioning, while the 6-inch high-density foam base stabilizes the mattress and pushes back to prevent you from sinking too much.

Trial, Shipping, and Warranty

The Bear Original comes with free shipping in the contiguous U.S. Delivery to Alaska and Hawaii available for an extra fee. Your order includes a 120-night trial, and you’ll also receive a lifetime warranty covering the mattress against various manufacturing defects.

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Best Mattress for Side Sleepers: Nolah Signature 12

Best Mattress for Side Sleepers

8.1/10Test Lab Score

Nolah Signature 12

A close-conforming foam bed with a medium firmness.

35% off sitewide + extra $50 off mattresses with code: SF50 Shop At Nolah Sleep
Price: $1,169
Mattress Type: Foam
Firmness Options: Medium (5)
Trial Period: 120 nights (30-night requirement)
Key Details
  • Who It’s Best For: Side sleepers, especially those up to 230 pounds, and people who frequently wake up with pressure points.
  • Feel: A medium (5) feel with deep contouring and enhanced support around the lumbar region.
  • What It’s Made Of: A comfort system with four individual layers. These include Nolah’s proprietary AirFoam, which is engineered to relieve pressure like traditional memory foam without as much heat retention, and two zoned layers for extra lower back support. A high-density foam support core stabilizes the mattress.
  • What We Don’t Like: Deep cradling can make movement more difficult, and cause some stomach and back sleepers to sink in excessively.
Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

9/10

130-230 lbs

8.5/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7/10

130-230 lbs

6/10

Above 230 lbs

5.5/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6/10

130-230 lbs

5.5/10

Above 230 lbs

5/10

In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.

Performance

Motion Isolation7.5/10
Motion Isolation
Temperature Control6.5/10
Temperature Control
Pressure Relief8.5/10
Pressure Relief
Edge Support6.5/10
Edge Support
Durability6.5/10
Durability
Ease of Movement6/10
Ease of Movement
Read Our Full Nolah Signature 12 Review

Side sleepers often benefit from a mattress that molds closely to their curves to ease pressure, and the Nolah Signature can deliver. This medium (5) all-foam model combines a close hug with breathable materials to cradle a side sleeper’s hips and shoulders without trapping too much heat. 

How It Performed

Thanks to its close conforming, side sleepers on our testing team gave the Nolah Signature high ratings. Those who weigh up to 230 pounds were particularly impressed, noting that their hips and shoulders felt cradled yet supported by the thick comfort system. Many back and stomach sleepers would have preferred more support, but those under 130 pounds also gave the mattress decent ratings. 

Notable give and zoned support help the Nolah Signature perform exceptionally well for pressure relief. The all-foam design also absorbs motion exceptionally well, so this mattress should appeal to couples.

Construction Breakdown

A breathable knit cover quilted with foam cushions the Nolah Signature’s surface. The top layer is composed of AirFoam polyfoam, a proprietary material designed for pressure relief and breathability. This layer is aerated to provide zoned support and softness while allowing extra air circulation. Additional polyfoam layers provide more cushioning, and two are zoned to deliver extra pushback around your midsection and keep your entire body supported. A high-density foam base stabilizes the entire mattress.

Trial, Shipping, and Warranty

The Nolah Signature comes with a 120-night trial, though a labor and transportation fee applies for returns. Shipping is free for U.S. orders, and a lifetime warranty covers manufacturing defects in the mattress for as long as you own it.

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Best Firm Mattress: Plank Firm

Best Firm Mattress

8.5/10Test Lab Score

Plank Firm

A reversible foam mattress with an ultra-supportive feel on both sides.

25% off sitewide with code: LABORDAY25 Shop At Plank
Price: $999
Mattress Type: Foam
Firmness Options: Firm (7), Extra Firm (9)
Trial Period: 120 nights (30-night requirement)
Key Details
  • Who It’s Best For: People who weigh more than 230 pounds, especially back and stomach sleepers.
  • Feel: Flippable design with a firm (7) feel on one side and extra firm (9) on the other. Both surfaces feel ultra-supportive with limited cushioning.
  • What It’s Made Of: The firm side’s comfort system features quilting material and 2 inches of polyfoam, while the extra firm side only contains quilting foam. A shared support core of high-density polyfoam core rests between the two comfort systems.
  • What We Don’t Like: The limited cushioning can feel too firm for some, especially side sleepers up to 230 pounds.
Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6/10

130-230 lbs

7/10

Above 230 lbs

8.5/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7.5/10

130-230 lbs

8/10

Above 230 lbs

8.5/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8.5/10

130-230 lbs

9/10

Above 230 lbs

9/10

In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.

Performance

Motion Isolation7.5/10
Motion Isolation
Temperature Control7.5/10
Temperature Control
Pressure Relief6.5/10
Pressure Relief
Edge Support8/10
Edge Support
Durability7/10
Durability
Ease of Movement8/10
Ease of Movement
Read Our Full Plank Firm Review

While many all-foam models are built for plushness and conforming, the Plank Firm is designed for robust support. This flippable model includes firm (7) and extra firm (9) sides, making it a good option for sleepers who want two exceptionally supportive sleep surface options.

How It Performed

With a firm (7) and an extra firm (9) side, both options on the Plank Firm earned high marks from back and stomach sleepers. Side sleepers gave this mattress more mixed reviews, though most of our testers across weight groups could lie comfortably in the position on the firm (7) side.

Thanks to its sturdy construction, the Plank Firm’s performance in ease of movement and edge support also stands out. The limited sinkage made it easy for our team members to change positions, while minimal compression along the perimeter allowed them to use the full sleep surface.

Construction Breakdown

Both sides of the mattress begin with a .75-inch quilted layer for subtle cushioning and minimal loft. The firm (7) side follows it up with 2 inches of polyfoam to add some contouring, while the extra firm (9) side does not contain any additional cushioning materials. A 6-inch polyfoam support core lies between the comfort systems and provides strong reinforcement no matter which side you’re currently using. For an additional fee, you can upgrade the design to include a cooling cover.

Trial, Shipping, and Warranty

The Plank Firm comes with a 120-night sleep trial, with returns available for a fee. Plank also offers a lifetime warranty and free shipping in the contiguous U.S. Shipping to Alaska and Hawaii is available at an additional charge.

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Best Mattress for Couples: Lull Original Mattress

Best Mattress for Couples

8.6/10Test Lab Score

Lull Original Mattress

Medium firm all-foam mattress with a close-conforming feel.

Up to 66% off mattresses + free bundles Shop At Lull
Price: $708
Mattress Type: Foam
Firmness Options: Medium Firm (6)
Trial Period: 365 Nights
Key Details
  • Who It’s Best For: Side sleepers, couples, and budget shoppers.
  • Feel: Medium firm (6) feel with a bit of plushness on the surface and dense support layers to push back compression.
  • What It’s Made Of: A three-layer design consisting of gel-infused memory foam over transitional polyfoam and a high-density foam base. The cover is a stretch-rayon blend.
  • What We Don’t Like: Most back and stomach sleepers over 230 pounds will need a firmer, less adaptive mattress. By the same token, side sleepers under 130 pounds may find this model too soft.
Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7.5/10

130-230 lbs

8/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6.5/10

130-230 lbs

6/10

Above 230 lbs

5/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6.5/10

130-230 lbs

5.5/10

Above 230 lbs

4.5/10

In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.

Performance

Motion Isolation7/10
Temperature Control4.5/10
Pressure Relief7/10
Edge Support6/10
Durability5.5/10
Ease of Movement4.5/10
Read Our Full Lull Original Mattress Review

If you and your partner are shopping for an affordable memory foam mattress together, the Lull Original should meet your needs as a couple without going over your budget. This three-layer foam model excels at motion isolation, one of the most important considerations for co-sleepers, and its balanced medium firm (6) feel appeals to side sleepers across different weight groups.

How It Performed

Lull Original earned its highest ratings from side sleepers on our testing team. Those between 130 and 230 pounds were particularly impressed with how this mattress balances gentle contouring on the surface and decent pushback from the underlying support layers. Back sleepers under 130 pounds also found the Lull Original comfortable.

Motion isolation is one of the bed’s defining strengths, as all three foam layers absorb movement and practically eliminate motion transfer on the mattress surface. Pressure relief is another key performance area. Since the foam layers adapt to your body without compressing too much, sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds can enjoy a gentle hug without sinking deeply into the mattress.

Construction Breakdown

The Lull Original’s three-layer design begins with 1.5 inches of memory foam. A cooling gel infusion in the foam helps to offset heat retention on the surface, though you may still notice some warmth. Transitional polyfoam provides additional cushioning while creating a buffer between your body and the support core, which is composed of high-density base foam. A stretchy rayon-blend cover encases the mattress.

Trial, Shipping, and Warranty

The Lull Original carries a very approachable price-point compared to the competition, and standard shipping is free within the contiguous U.S. Your purchase comes with a generous 365-night sleep trial, and the mattress is covered under a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty.

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Best Mattress for Spinal Alignment: Silk & Snow Mattress

Best Mattress for Spinal Alignment

8.4/10Test Lab Score

Silk & Snow Mattress

A foam mattress that conforms close to your body for pressure relief.

$150 off at Silk & Snow Shop At Silk & Snow
Price: $590
Mattress Type: Foam
Firmness Options: Medium (5), Firm (7)
Trial Period: 365 nights
Key Details
  • Who It’s Best For: Side and back sleepers, people with persistent back pain, and value seekers.
  • Feel: Available in medium (5) and firm (7) designs, each with a distinct balance of contouring and support to accommodate different sleeper types.
  • What It’s Made Of: A three-layer design consisting of gel-infused memory foam and transitional polyfoam over a high-density foam base.
  • What We Don’t Like: Both designs can hinder movement and make changing sleep positions more difficult.
Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7.5/10

130-230 lbs

8/10

Above 230 lbs

8/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6.5/10

130-230 lbs

6.5/10

Above 230 lbs

6/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6.5/10

130-230 lbs

6/10

Above 230 lbs

5.5/10

In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.

Performance

Motion Isolation8/10
Temperature Control6/10
Pressure Relief8/10
Edge Support6.5/10
Durability6.5/10
Ease of Movement6/10
Read Our Full Silk & Snow Mattress Review

The Silk & Snow Mattress is a three-layer memory foam model available in two firmness levels. Whether you prefer the close contouring of the medium (5) design or need the extra support of a firm (7) model, this Canadian-made mattress has you covered — and the sticker price falls well below average compared to the competition.

How It Performed

After testing both versions of the Silk & Snow Mattress, our team determined that the plusher medium model is a solid match for side sleepers up to 230 pounds. The foam layers of this design mold closely to create a pressure-relieving cradle that promotes even spinal alignment while pushing back against the shoulders and hips. Heavier side sleepers, as well as back and stomach sleepers up to 230 pounds, will probably prefer the more supportive build of the firm (7) design.

Like a lot of memory foam models we’ve tested, the S&S Mattress excels at motion isolation for couples. Neither you nor your partner should feel more than a slight ripple of movement when the other person changes sleep positions or gets up during the night. Ease of movement is so-so on both mattresses, and the softer design’s edges are prone to deep compression.

Construction Breakdown

The Silk & Snow Mattress begins with a 2-inch comfort layer of memory foam, which is infused with cooling gel meant to draw heat away from the surface. Transitional polyfoam forms a gentle buffer between your body and the support core, which contains a 6-inch block of high-density base foam. The cover is treated with an antimicrobial agent and removable for easy, at-home cleaning.

Trial, Shipping, and Warranty

Not only does the Silk & Snow Mattress carry a budget-friendly price tag, but shipping is also free of charge for customers in the contiguous U.S. and provincial Canada. A generous sleep trial allows you to test out the mattress in your own bedroom for up to 365 consecutive nights, and your purchase is further backed by a 15-year manufacturer’s warranty.

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Who Is a Memory Foam Mattress Best For?

With a diverse array of memory foam mattresses available, nearly anyone can find a design that meets their needs and suits their preferences. However, memory foam mattresses tend to be most popular with the following groups: 

  • Side sleepers: Memory foam mattresses typically mold to a side sleeper’s curves, reducing pressure buildup around areas that often dig harder into the mattress, such as the hips and shoulders.
  • Sleepers with pressure-related pain: Memory foam redistributes the sleeper’s weight, so sleepers who experience discomfort where their body touches the mattress may appreciate the close cushioning and even conforming. 
  • Couples: By compressing directly under the sleeper, memory foam limits vibrations that could otherwise transfer from one side of the bed to the other. For partners who share a bed, this may help reduce sleep interruptions during the night. 

Who Are Memory Foam Beds Less Than Ideal For?

Performance varies between models, so you may be able to find an option that limits the drawbacks associated with memory foam. However, the average memory foam mattress is usually less than ideal for the following groups:

  • Hot sleepers: Many memory foam mattresses incorporate components designed for cooling, but the material’s dense composition and close hug can trap body heat against the sleeper and make the surface feel warm.
  • Active sleepers: Some find memory foam harder to move on because of its close hug and tendency to retain body impressions even after you’ve moved. Active sleepers and those with mobility issues may prefer a more responsive surface.
  • Stomach sleepers and those over 230 pounds: There are some very supportive memory foam mattresses on the market, but more often than not, these models are built for close contouring and cradling. Stomach sleepers, people over 230 pounds, and other individuals who may need more support from their mattress might want to look at other designs. 

What to Consider When Shopping for an Affordable Memory Foam Mattress

Affordable mattresses should be comfortable for both your body and your wallet. Mattress qualities related to performance criteria like motion isolation, edge support, ease of movement, and durability should all come into play as you make your decision. However, the following factors are most important when shopping for an affordable memory foam mattress. 

Sleeping Position and Body Weight

Sleeping position and body weight are among the top considerations for any mattress shopper because they are strongly related to your support needs. 

Side sleepers typically gravitate toward memory foam mattresses. These models traditionally conform closely to the body and relieve pressure well, and this can be beneficial for side sleepers who feel sharp pain in their shoulders, lower back, or hips. 

Back sleepers may also enjoy how memory foam molds to their body, though they’re likely to need a slightly firmer surface than side sleepers—especially if they weigh more than 230 pounds. Stomach sleepers have the most significant support needs, so they generally prefer firmer memory foam models that won’t make them sink excessively or a different type of mattress altogether.

Body weight also plays a role in the optimal affordable memory foam mattress. Lighter folks in particular may prefer memory foam models for their notable conforming. Heavier individuals, on the other hand, may need a firmer surface and strong support system to sleep comfortably without excessive sag.

Contouring and Pressure Relief

Contouring and pressure relief are often the main selling points for memory foam mattresses. A memory foam model should be able to adjust to the shape of your body and redistribute pressure to limit buildup around areas like the shoulders and hips.

The extent of contouring and pressure relief varies between models. Many budget-friendly options use thinner layers of memory foam that don’t hug the body as deeply, but they may incorporate polyfoam for additional cushioning. 

Temperature Regulation

Memory foam has a reputation for trapping heat because it molds closely to the body and limits air circulation. Some models incorporate features designed to counteract this, such as cooling gel infusions in the comfort systems and breathable cover fabrics, but affordable memory foam mattresses are less likely to include these elements due to budget constraints.

Dig Deeper — More Mattress Guides by Type

For more information on our top mattress picks for different product categories, check out the guides listed below.

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