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Many share the misconception that a high-quality mattress will cost you thousands of dollars. This may be true for some models, but budget-friendly beds are also widely available. Despite affordable price-points, these mattresses offer the same high-quality materials and strong performance as many of their more expensive counterparts.
For our best affordable mattress guide, we’ve focused solely on models from online brands since they typically offer lower prices than brick-and-mortar stores. Our testing team selected the picks below based on factors like expected durability, quality of materials, unique construction details – and of course, sticker price.
Watch our video below to learn more about our lab’s top picks for cheap mattress.
Our guide discusses how to find a mattress that’s both comfortable and easy on your wallet. Our picks for the best budget mattress models sold today are described in detail below. If you scroll a bit further, you’ll find an overview of different mattress types and tips for first-time mattress buyers. While shopping for your budget-friendly mattress, check out our list of the Best Affordable Sheets to go with your new bed.
Product Details
Best Overall
Nectar Mattress
Price Range: $399 - $1,138
Mattress Type: Foam
Firmness: Medium Firm (6)
Trial length: 365 nights
Warranty: Lifetime, Limited
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King
Who it's best for:
Any type of sleeper (back, side, stomach, combination)
Sleepers who prefer close body-contouring
People with pressure points in the shoulders, back, and/or hips
The Nectar’s sticker price makes it a high-value mattress compared to other memory foam models. However, our testing found the mattress still performs at the same level as – if not better than – many pricier all-foam beds.
What It’s Made of
The Nectar is constructed with a memory foam comfort layer over transitional and support layers of dense polyfoam. Though the mattress has a medium firm (6) feel, we found the mattress conformed evenly to distribute your weight and alleviate pressure along the spine. The top foam layer is infused with phase change material intended to release your body heat and maintain a cool sleep surface.
How It Performed
We recommend the Nectar if you share the bed with a partner, thanks to its superior motion isolation and noise-free design. The dense and durable support core earned the Nectar higher marks during our edge support tests compared to other memory foam models.
During our sleep tests, we found the Nectar was most comfortable for side and back sleepers. This was especially true of our testers who favor these positions and weigh at least 130 pounds.
If you live in the contiguous U.S., you’re eligible for free shipping. Nectar also offers a 365-night sleep trial to test out the mattress and a lifetime warranty against structural defects, both of which are longer than average.
Bottom Line:
The Nectar Mattress is an affordable all-foam model that balances cushioning and support thanks to the medium firm (6) feel. The inclusion of phase change material also keeps the mattress cooler than many other foam models we’ve tested.
Many hybrids we test tend to have higher price-points than other mattress types, but the DreamCloud Mattress is a notable exception. The mattress features thick foam layers, a supportive coil system, and a luxuriously soft cover that our testers enjoyed across weight groups and sleeping positions. Yet its price-point is low compared to many other hybrids we’ve seen.
What It’s Made of
The mattress begins with a layer of adaptive polyfoam quilted into the cover, followed by a memory foam comfort layer. Although the DreamCloud is considered medium firm (6), we found these layers gave the surface an invitingly plush feel when we lay on the bed. A transitional layer of dense polyfoam serves as a buffer between the top layers and the support core. This layer prevented our testers who weigh up to 230 pounds from sinking too much. A pocketed coil system and high-density polyfoam base layer make up the support core, providing ample pushback to the body and preventing you from sinking to an uncomfortable degree. The entire mattress is encased in a cashmere-blend cover.
How It Performed
We found the DreamCloud’s thick comfort system gave the mattress a plush surface despite its medium firm feel, so this mattress will hit the sweet spot if you seek a balance between contouring and support. The coils reinforced the edges to prevent sinkage when our testers got on and off the mattress. This also allows co-sleepers to use the entire surface for sleep or sex.
The DreamCloud earned excellent marks in our temperature neutrality tests. The cashmere-blend cover is quite breathable, and the coils generate enough air circulation to maintain a comfortable interior temperature. During our sleeping position and weight group performance tests, the most favorable ratings came from side sleepers who weigh 130 to 230 pounds.
The DreamCloud Mattress qualifies for free ground shipping if you live anywhere in the contiguous U.S. The company’s 365-night sleep trial is one of the longest in the online mattress industry. If you decide to keep the DreamCloud, you’ll receive a lifetime warranty that covers structural defects as long as you retain ownership.
Bottom Line:
The DreamCloud is one of the most balanced mattresses we’ve tested. It’s a true medium firm and the coils provide great support, but the foam layers offer plenty of cushioning.
Helix Sleep offers a wide selection of hybrid models, each specifically designed for certain people based on their body type and sleep position. We found the Midnight is one of the company’s most balanced models. With a medium firm (6) feel and mid-level profile, the mattress performed best among our side-sleeping testers who weigh at least 130 pounds, but it also offered adequate support for other positions.
What It’s Made of
The Midnight features a memory foam comfort layer and a polyfoam transitional layer. Our testers noted these components cushion and contour to the body, but not to the same “body-hugging” extent as softer mattresses with foam layers. The support core contains pocketed coils and a base layer of high-density polyfoam. The coil-reinforced perimeter prevents deep sinkage when our testers lay near the edges or got in and out of bed. A polyester cover encases the mattress.
How It Performed
Most of our testers found the Midnight comfortable and supportive in equal measure. Side sleepers who weigh at least 130 pounds felt adequate cushioning around their shoulders and hips – common sites of pressure buildup if you primarily use this position. Meanwhile, back and stomach sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds received good support and didn’t sink excessively.
The reinforced coils made the surface fairly easy to move across during performance tests, and we felt minimal sinkage. The coils also promote airflow, earning it higher marks in our temperature neutrality tests. Thanks to the memory foam layer, the Midnight performed well in our motion isolation tests for a hybrid and can reduce sleep disturbances if you share your mattress with someone else.
Helix Sleep offers free ground shipping to customers in all 50 states. The Midnight is backed by a 100-night sleep trial and a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Bottom Line:
The Midnight is a true crowd-pleaser – soft enough for side sleepers, but also plenty of support for back and stomach sleepers. The foam comfort layers relieved pressure in the joints, while sturdy pocketed coils prevented our testers from sinking excessively.
Many all-foam mattresses we test earn high ratings in motion isolation, and the Nolah Original 10 is no exception. The foam layers absorbed most movement transfer and noise during our tests, making the mattress a good option if you tend to wake up when your sleep partner changes positions or gets up at night.
What It’s Made of
The Original 10’s comfort layer is made of proprietary AirFoam material. The foam’s open-cell composition is intended to promote airflow and prevent heat from building up near the surface. The mattress also features a high-resilience polyfoam transitional layer and high-density foam support core. Our team found these layers reinforced the sleep surface and prevented excessive sinkage. A cover made of Tencel – a fabric derived from eucalyptus – encases the foam layers.
How It Performed
Our testing found the Original 10 has a medium (5) feel that provides a comfortable balance of body contouring and even support. The mattress was particularly well-received by side sleepers on our testing team who weigh 230 pounds or less. These testers received ample cushioning around the shoulders and hips – two areas where pressure buildup is common if you primarily use this position – but the mattress didn’t sink too much either.
Most testers weighing up to 230 pounds agreed above-average cooling was a major strength of the Original 10. Constructed with open-cell foam layers that absorb minimal heat and a breathable, moisture-wicking Tencel cover, the mattress is a great option if you normally overheat on all-foam beds.
The Original 10’s price-point makes it suitable if you’re on a budget, and ground delivery is free of charge throughout the contiguous U.S. Nolah also allows you to opt out of the 120-night sleep trial to further reduce their up-front costs. If you go through with the trial, you qualify for free return shipping if you decide the mattress isn’t right for you. Regardless of whether or not you choose the sleep trial, you receive a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty with your purchase.
Bottom Line:
The Nolah Original’s all-foam construction was excellent at absorbing movement transfer during our motion isolation tests, and it is virtually silent. The AirFoam also lives up to its name, keeping the mattress much cooler than many other all-foam models we’ve tested.
The Bear Original is an all-foam model with a firmer feel than many other foam beds we’ve tested. The added support combined with the traditional foam contouring makes this a good choice if you need extra reinforcement to alleviate back pain.
What It’s Made of
The mattress has a firm (7) feel with a 10-inch profile. A comfort layer of memory foam provides the contouring we often expect from foam beds. Beneath is a transitional layer of polyfoam that feels firmer and gives the bed some responsiveness, followed by a support core composed of high-density foam that provides a sturdy base for the entire bed.
A cover made of Celliant fabric encases the mattress. This material is engineered to convert your body heat into infrared energy, which is then conferred back to you. The process is meant to improve muscle recovery by improved circulation and blood oxygen levels.
How It Performed
As with many foam beds, our side-sleeping testers found the Bear Original very comfortable. We noticed the bed offers strong contouring to cushion the shoulders and hips, which are common pain points if you frequently use this position. The above-average firmness also performed well among our back-sleeping testers, who often require a firm surface to support the lumbar area and padding to cradle the spine.
Our motion isolation tests found the foam layers absorbed motion effectively, which means you can sleep with a partner without disturbing each other with movements and rustling at night. If you’re a hot sleeper who tends to overheat on foam beds, you may find this bed comfortable since the Celliant fabric is designed to sleep cool.
Bear offers free shipping if you live in the contiguous U.S. The mattress comes with a 120-night sleep trial, during which you can test out the mattress. If you decide to keep the bed, it is backed by a lifetime warranty.
Bottom Line:
The Bear Original has a firmer surface that feels noticeably more supportive than other foam beds we’ve tested. This firmness level offers extra support and spinal cradling for back and stomach sleepers.
If you’re mattress shopping for a pre-teen, teen, or young adult, the Leesa Original is a reliable and affordable option. Our testers found the all-foam design combines close contouring with a sturdy support system to help your child sleep comfortably.
What It’s Made of
The Original’s top comfort layer is composed of polyfoam engineered to keep the surface cool and responsive. Underneath is a layer of memory foam that contours to the body to relieve pressure. When testing the mattress, we noticed deep cushioning from these layers, but most of us didn’t sink too deeply. Both foam layers have an open-cell composition, promoting breathability and reducing uncomfortable heat retention.
High-density polyfoam makes up the support core. Accounting for 6 inches of the Original’s 10-inch profile, this layer offers good overall stability and reinforcement for the sleep surface. The entire mattress is encased in a polyester-knit cover featuring Leesa’s signature stripe pattern. In terms of firmness, the Original is considered medium (5).
How It Performed
During our hands-on tests, the Original proved popular with the side and back sleepers on our team weighing up to 230 pounds. The most favorable ratings came from those under 130 pounds, but testers who weigh 130 to 230 pounds also found the mattress comfortable and didn’t report excessive sinkage around the midsection. The mattress also earned higher-than-average marks from our side sleepers who weigh over 230 pounds.
Like most foam mattresses we’ve tested, the Original performed well for motion isolation. Our testers noticed little to no motion transfer when lying side by side on the mattress, even when the other person changed positions or got out of bed. Our tests also revealed minimal pressure buildup and low heat retention, the latter of which can be attributed to the Original’s open-cell foam layers.
Leesa allows you to bundle your purchase with a platform bed, foundation, or metal bed frame. Shipping is free of charge to customers in all 50 states, and each order comes with a 100-night trial period. If you keep your Leesa Original after the trial ends, you will receive a 10-year warranty against structural defects.
Bottom Line:
The Leesa Original delivers strong pressure relief and motion isolation on par with other foam mattresses we’ve tested, but at a sticker price that falls well below average. Good temperature control and ease of movement further set the mattress apart from its competitors.
The Silk & Snow Hybrid is a medium firm (6) bed sold at a reasonable price-point compared to other hybrid models we’ve tested of similar quality and construction. While the mid-range firmness level performed well across weight categories, our testers who weigh more than 130 pounds greatly benefited from the bed’s excellent support.
What It’s Made of
The mattress begins with a quilted polyfoam layer followed by a thicker layer of memory foam. This comfort system conforms closely to your body and cushions areas where pressure buildup may occur. Beneath is a pocketed coil system that is zoned to provide extra support to heavier parts of your body and help you maintain healthy sleep posture. We found the firm foam encasement around the mattress’ perimeter provided excellent edge support, which is helpful if you have trouble getting in and out of bed or tend to sleep close to the edges.
How It Performed
Our testing found the foam comfort system and coil support core create a balance of cushioning and support that is well-suited for side sleepers. Our testers who frequently use this position require pressure relief in the shoulders and hips but enough support to prevent excessive sinkage in other areas of the body. We noticed the coil system ventilated the bed’s interior quite well, and cooling gel infusions in the foam are meant to reduce heat retention, making this an appealing option if you tend to overheat.
Silk & Snow ships free within the contiguous U.S. and Canadian provinces. The mattress is backed by a 15-year warranty and comes with a 100-night sleep trial for you to test out the mattress. A 30-night break-in period is required, after which you may return the bed for a full refund.
Bottom Line:
Hot sleepers on our testing team thoroughly enjoyed the Silk & Snow Hybrid. The mattress’ breathable coil support core kept the internal temperature down, while the gel infusions kept the surface cool to the touch.
Finding a mattress for your spare bedroom can be challenging because everyone has different needs regarding firmness and support. You may not find a mattress that feels comfortable for all of your overnight guests, but our tests show that the Siena Memory Foam Mattress is a safe bet for most. This medium firm (6), all-foam model gently contours to your body but shouldn’t sink excessively if you weigh up to 230 pounds. Our testing results also show the mattress isolates motion, alleviates pressure, and feels reasonably stable along the perimeter.
What It’s Made of
The Siena begins with a comfort layer of adaptive memory foam, followed by a polyfoam transitional layer. These materials cushion and conform to the body while keeping you on an even plane. The top layer is infused with cooling gel intended to dissipate body heat and help you sleep cool. We also found the surface relatively easy to move across during our tests, which can be attributed to the firmer feel of this mattress.
The Siena’s support core is composed of high-density polyfoam. This layer is designed to stabilize the entire mattress. We noticed minimal sinkage along the perimeter – especially compared to other memory foam beds. A cover made of knit polyester encases the entire mattress. The Siena measures 10 inches thick, making it a medium-profile model.
How It Performed
Throughout our tests, the Siena performed well in areas where memory foam mattresses tend to fall short. The medium firm feel and mid-range profile give the mattress above-average support, so the testers on our team who weigh up to 230 pounds didn’t sink too much as they might on a softer, thicker all-foam model. The Siena also excelled during our motion isolation tests, and very few of our testers experienced painful pressure buildup while lying on the mattress.
Among our different types of testers, the Siena was most comfortable for side sleepers weighing 130 to 230 pounds and back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds. However, testers across most weight and position groups gave the mattress a rating of “good” or better.
In addition to its affordable pricing, the Siena Memory Foam Mattress qualifies for free ground delivery throughout the contiguous U.S. Your purchase will include a sleep trial that spans 180 nights, giving you plenty of time to test the mattress and decide whether it’s right for you. If you decide to keep it, you’ll also receive a manufacturer’s warranty that covers structural defects for up to 10 years.
Bottom Line:
The Siena’s firmer feel and above-average support elevate it over other memory foam mattresses in this price range. Our testers who weigh 130 pounds or more often sink too much on cheap foam beds, but not in this case.
The Layla Mattress is an all-foam model that combines copper-infused memory foam comfort layers with polyfoam in a flippable construction. We tested each side and found they offer vastly different feels in terms of firmness, with a suitable option available for most of your sleep needs.
What It’s Made of
Our team gave one side of the mattress a medium soft (4) feel on our 10-point firmness scale, while the other is firm (7). The medium soft side consists of 3 inches of copper-infused memory foam over 2 inches of a zoned polyfoam, which provides targeted support to different areas of your body. The firm side has 1 inch of copper-infused memory foam to create a more supportive feel. The shared support core is composed of high-density foam and located between both comfort systems.
How It Performed
Our testers noticed the memory foam provides deep cradling and pressure relief, while its copper infusion works to draw some excess heat away from your body. The cover is made of a breathable blend of polyester, viscose, and spandex, with a Thermo-Gel cooling agent sewn in that responds to heat. These cooling components earned the mattress higher marks on our temperature neutrality tests.
The Layla Mattress’s versatility made it popular among our testers, regardless of their body weight or preferred sleeping position. Testers who weighed less than 130 pounds generally preferred the medium soft side, while the firm side felt more comfortable for testers who weigh more than 130 pounds.
The Layla Mattress has a price that is around the middle of the pack for an all-foam mattress. The bed comes with a 120-night sleep trial, during which you can test out the mattress and return it for a full refund if you’re unsatisfied. If you decide to keep the mattress, it is covered by a lifetime warranty.
Bottom Line:
High-quality materials and two distinct feels make the Layla Mattress an excellent choice if you want versatility in your mattress. A lightweight build lets you flip between surfaces without too much hassle.
Despite its luxurious construction and high-quality materials, the CoolBreeze from Dynasty Mattress costs significantly less than many other memory foam mattresses we’ve tested. Our testing lab found the mixed-material design is ideal if you sleep on your back and want a combination of contouring and responsiveness.
What It’s Made of
The CoolBreeze is built with a pressure-relieving memory foam comfort layer that closely adapts to your body. Next, a secondary memory foam layer provides deeper contouring and cushioning along your spine. Latex layers add a responsive feel that prevents you from sinking too deeply into the mattress. The base is composed of high-density polyfoam that offers targeted support to your hips and shoulders. The cover is made from a breathable cotton-polyester blend that kept us cool while laying on the surface. The mattress is available in three firmness levels: medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (8).
How It Performed
Side sleepers on our testing team appreciated the memory foam layer’s cradling for the shoulders and hips, while the supportive feel helped them maintain healthy sleep posture. Our testing shows the mattress is most comfortable for side sleepers who weigh 130 to 230 pounds and back and stomach sleepers who weigh under 130 pounds.
Additionally, the CoolBreeze excelled during our motion isolation tests and did not produce any noise when bearing weight. These characteristics make the mattress a great option if you experience sleep disruptions due to your sleep partner’s movements. The cover can be unzipped and machine washed, as well.
Purchasing the Dynasty CoolBreeze gets you two free pillows with each purchase, and purchases come with a 120-night sleep trial. The mattress is backed by a 10-year warranty that protects against structural defects.
Bottom Line:
The Dynasty CoolBreeze is a thoughtfully designed mattress with a luxurious, high-profile build and quality materials. All three firmness levels provide decent support for an all-foam bed, but our stomach-sleeping testers all agreed the firmest option was exceptionally comfortable.
Why You Can Trust Us
Our team of sleep experts has personally tested hundreds of mattresses using a wide range of metrics to guide our evaluations. For this list, we focused on models with approachable price-points that also perform quite well in certain areas – even compared to their costlier competitors.
How We Evaluated These Mattresses
Our rigorous, hands-on testing process involves feedback from sleepers with varying weights and position preferences. The selections above reflect our latest findings, but rest assured we’ll continue to reevaluate our list, test out new mattresses as they become available, and update our top picks accordingly.
Below you will find more information about our team’s research methodology for ranking best cheap mattresses:
Motion Isolation: Motion isolation refers to a mattress’ ability to reduce movement transfer when a sleeper changes positions at night. Couples and children sharing a bed see the most benefit from a mattress with high marks in motion isolation.
Temperature Control: Temperature control refers to how well a mattress stays at a neutral temperature, not too hot or too cold. Mattresses can regulate temperature by promoting air circulation and dissipating excess body heat.
Pressure Relief: A mattress’ pressure relieving abilities are usually tied to how closely the comfort layers conform to the body. The comfort layers in a mattress should evenly distribute weight, keep the spine aligned, and reduce pain in the hips, shoulders, or lower back.
Off-Gassing: Most mattresses will let off an odor after unboxing due to off-gassing from VOCs or smells from its materials. These odors are mostly harmless and disappear over time, but they can be an annoyance.
Ease of Movement: This refers to how easily a sleeper can change positions or move across the mattress surface without excessive sinkage. Responsive mattresses tend to facilitate more movement.
Edge Support: A mattress with supportive edges bears weight when people sleep or sit on the perimeter. Mattresses with lower marks for edge support may force sleepers to lie towards the center.
Sex: Many couples prefer a responsive surface for sex. Mattresses with high marks in ease of movement and edge support also tend to rank highly for this criteria.
Body Weight: A sleeper’s body weight is an important factor in choosing the most comfortable mattress. For the most part, the more you weigh, the more support you need to feel comfortable.
How Much Does a Mattress Cost? – Video
The cost of a mattress depends on a number of factors such as materials and quality of construction. Watch the video below for an in-depth explanation of why some mattresses cost more than others.
Finding a cheap mattress is easier than ever. This is primarily due to the rise of online mattress brands over the past decade. Historically, mattress shoppers bought beds from brick-and-mortar sellers, which typically charge thousands of dollars to cover the overhead costs of operating physical stores and employing onsite sales staff. Online brands have much lower overhead costs so they’re able to offer considerably lower price-points.
An online mattress – also known as a “mattress in a box” or “bed in a box” – may be cheaper, but they offer the same high-quality materials, comfortable designs, and durability of their more expensive competitors. Today’s you can choose from hundreds of brands and retailers online.
Buying a cheap mattress online is a fairly straightforward process. First, research affordable mattress options by comparing different brands and models. After narrowing down your final picks, review product materials and specs to see which model offers the right firmness, comfort, and support. To purchase a mattress model, simply select the desired size from its product page and follow the checkout instructions.
Be sure to look for coupons and discounts on the brand’s website – these promotions can reduce the bed’s asking price by hundreds of dollars. Many online brands also offer sales for certain holidays, such as President’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, and Veteran’s Day. Sales for consumer holidays like Amazon Prime Day (July 15), Black Friday (the day after Thanksgiving), and Cyber Monday (the Monday after Thanksgiving) are also common.
Important Mattress Considerations
Mattress shoppers should take many different variables into account in order to choose the best affordable mattress. Some mattress brands can be misleading with their marketing jargon, advertising beds with features like “universal comfort” and “unlimited durability” that simply don’t exist. Instead of focusing on inaccurate descriptions, take time to research the following characteristics.
Price: Factors that contribute to the price of a mattress include type, quality of materials, unique features, and the brand itself. Remember: a low price-point does not necessarily indicate an inferior mattress. Many of the best budget mattress in a box models we’ve tested rival – if not outperform – their more expensive competitors in terms of comfort, support, and performance.
Sleeping Position: There are certain mattress needs associated with each sleep position. For most side sleepers, a comfortable mattress will cushion the shoulders and hips, align the spine, and reduce pressure throughout the body. Back and stomach sleepers often need more support for the midsection, but contouring – especially around the lower back – is also important.
Mattress Type: Each mattress type offers different advantages. Foam and latex beds contour to your body to support the spine and alleviate pressure points. Innersprings and hybrids are more supportive and responsive, and also usually more breathable. Airbeds can be customized for firmness using adjustable air chambers, making them suitable regardless of your body type and position.
Contouring: Contouring, or conforming, refers to how closely the mattress cradles your body. Beds that offer deep contouring usually rank highest on our pressure relief and motion isolation tests. Models with less conforming feel more supportive for heavier sleepers and tend to sink less along the edges. For many, mid-level contouring is the most balanced and comfortable option.
Quality Materials: Some beds offer more comfort and support due to their high-quality components. High-density memory foam, for instance, provides better body conforming and more motion isolation than beds we’ve tested using foams with lower densities. Other examples include organic/natural latex, which is very breathable and durable, and zoned coils that provide strong edge reinforcement and enhanced support for your body.
Firmness Level: We measure firmness on a 1-10 scale, with 1 being the softest and 10 the firmest. Softer beds conform more closely and perform better in our pressure relief tests, but tend to sag too much with heavier individuals. Firmer beds offer more support and less conforming, but may feel too hard and dense for our lightweight testers. Most mattresses sold today fall between 3 (soft) and 8 (firm).
Pressure Relief: Mattresses alleviate pressure by cushioning in certain areas, such as the shoulders and hips, while keeping the spine aligned and maintaining even support for your entire body. We’ve found foam, hybrid, and latex mattresses with thicker comfort layers often provide the best pressure relief.
Pressure-mapping tools help our testers measure pressure relief in mattresses.
Edge Support: Some mattresses lack support around the perimeter and tend to sink when you sit along the edges. This can make getting in and out of bed somewhat difficult. Hybrids and innersprings we’ve tested offer the best edge support due to the thick coil systems reinforcing the edges, whereas all-latex and foam beds tend to sink the most.
Temperature Regulation: A breathable mattress is important, particularly if you naturally sleep hot. Hybrids and innersprings usually perform best in our temperature neutrality tests because their coils promote strong internal airflow to help maintain a comfortable temperature. Our heat guns often detect more heat buildup on foam beds because they absorb and trap body heat.
Heat guns help our testers measure heat on a mattress’ surface.
Motion Isolation: Generally, all-foam and all-latex models earn the highest ratings in our motion isolation category because of their ability to absorb movement transfer. Mattresses with coils like innersprings and hybrids have a more responsive feel that can transfer more movement.
Noise: Most all-foam and all-latex beds perform well in our noise reduction tests. Other mattress types are associated with more noise due to certain components, such as the potentially squeaky coils found in innersprings and hybrids, or the motorized air chambers used in airbeds.
What Can Affect the Price of a Mattress?
Certain mattress features and characteristics can drive up the price-point by a considerable margin. These include the following:
High-Density Memory Foam: Density refers to how much the foam weighs. It is measured in pounds per cubic foot, or PCF. High-density memory foam has a density of 5.5 PCF or higher. This material is exceptionally durable and will not lose its shape too quickly. It offers great body contouring and performs well in our motion isolation tests. For this reason, expensive memory foam and hybrid mattresses we test are often constructed with high-density memory foam. Low-density (less than 4 PCF) and medium-density (4 to 5.5 PCF) memory foam are more commonly found in cheap mattress in a box models.
Organic and Natural Latex: Latex is a material derived from rubber tree sap. Organic and natural latex are processed with very few chemical agents. These materials are very durable and breathable, and our testers find them responsive. Many mattresses with organic or natural latex layers are priced at $1,600 or higher. Models with blended or synthetic latex usually cost much less, but we’ve found do not provide as much pressure relief or durability.
Cooling Elements: Some materials may be infused into the cover and/or comfort layer to promote a cooler sleeping surface. Copper is one example. Thanks to its natural conductivity, most mattresses we’ve tested that use copper-infused foam dissipate surface heat fairly well. Some mattresses are also infused with phase-change material, which is designed to maintain a constant and cool surface temperature throughout the night – no matter how warm you feel.
Zoned Coils: Many low-cost mattresses feature coil systems with a uniform gauge, or thickness, throughout the layer. Zoned coil systems are divided into thickness zones, with thicker coils reinforcing the edges while thinner coils offer gentler support for your body. Models with zoned coils tend to provide the best combination of edge support and sleeper comfort during our tests. Many are expensive, but some models have very affordable price-points.
This list is not exhaustive. If a mattress has a relatively high price-point, be sure to read the specs to see why. The cost may reflect special features like those described above – but in some cases, the bed might be overpriced.
Shipping, Returns, and Warranties
We recommend reading the fine print on a mattress brand’s shipping, return, and warranty policies before purchasing a new bed, especially if you are buying online. These policies are fairly consistent across different brands, but careful research will help you avoid hidden fees. This section includes a general overview of what to expect for mattress shipping, returns, and warranties.
Shipping
Options: The vast majority of online brands offer free ground shipping within the contiguous U.S. Some also ship for free to Alaska, Hawaii, and/or Canada. Most standard ground deliveries reach their destination in two weeks or less. If standard shipping will take too long, you may be able to select expedited shipping for an added charge. A third option, if available, is White Glove delivery. This includes in-home assembly and old mattress removal, but the wait time is often longer – typically two to three weeks.
Rates: Standard ground shipping is normally free within the contiguous U.S. Customers in Alaska, Hawaii, Canada, and other non-contiguous locations that qualify for delivery may pay anywhere from $100 to $600 for mattress shipping. Expedited shipping will also incur extra charges, but usually no more than $50. If White Glove delivery is not free, expect to pay at least $150 for in-home assembly and old mattress removal.
Method: For standard ground shipping, the mattress will be compressed with a machine press, wrapped in plastic, and delivered in a compact box. Couriers will leave the box on your doorstep, and a signature will not be required. The same is true for expedited deliveries. White Glove couriers deliver mattresses in trucks, and will not compress the beds for shipping. A signature is usually required for a White Glove delivery and an adult 18 years or older should be at the residence when the couriers arrive.
Returns
Sleep Trial: Online brands usually offer a sleep trial, during which you can test out a mattress, then decide whether to keep the bed, exchange it for a different model, or return it for a refund. Most sleep trials last at least 90 nights, and some span one year or longer. In some cases, you must “break in” the mattress for a certain length of time (usually 30 nights) before you can return the bed for a refund. This allows your body to adjust to the mattress fully before you decide it’s not for you.
Cost: Most online mattress brands offer free returns within the sleep trial period. In most cases, the company will send couriers to pick up the mattress from your residence, then transport it for recycling or donation. Alternatively, you may be asked to dispose of or donate the mattress yourself. Returned mattresses are never restocked or resold. Some brands charge return fees, but these charges are usually less than $100.
Refund: Once a mattress has been returned to the company, you should receive a refund on the original form of payment – though this process can take up to 30 days. If you are asked to recycle or donate the mattress, you may need to submit photographic proof to the company.
Exchanges: Some brands allow mattress exchanges during the sleep trial for different models, sizes, or both. Exchanging for a more expensive model will require paying the difference, whereas exchanging for a lower model results in a partial refund.
Warranties
Length: All mattresses come with a product warranty, which covers products that develop defects. Most mattress warranties span 10 years in length, but 15-, 20-, and 25-year warranties are also available. “Lifetime” warranties cover the mattress as long as the original buyer retains ownership.
Costs: If the warranty is non-prorated, then owners do not pay for repairs and replacements of defective mattresses, though you may need to cover shipping and transportation charges for sending the mattress to the manufacturer for defect inspection.
If the warranty is prorated, then you must pay a certain percentage of the original mattress price to replace your bed with a non-defective model. This percentage typically increases on an annual basis. For example, a 20-year warranty with 10 years of non-prorated coverage will become prorated in year 11, when owners typically need to pay 55 percent of the original price (or 5 percent for each year of ownership) to replace their mattress. In year 12, they will pay 60 percent. This rate increase will continue until the warranty expires.
Covered Defects: Most mattress warranties list all covered defects. These often include measurements for indentations in the surface that indicate a defect, also known as a “sagging depth.” Other recognized defects may include physical flaws in the mattress that cause early deterioration and manufacturing defects with the cover. On the other hand, physical damage that occurs due to inadequate foundational support or owner abuse is never covered. Additionally, warranties will not cover issues that arise over changes in the owner’s personal mattress preferences.
Additional Mattress Costs
In addition to potential shipping, return, and warranty costs – as well as the mattress itself – you may face other expenses when purchasing a new bed. Please consider the following add-ons when selecting a mattress.
Foundations and Bed Frames: Support systems for mattresses include box springs, wood or metal frames, platform beds, and adjustable bases. These support systems must match the mattress size. The warranty may also carry certain requirements about mattress support, such as the maximum width between frame slats or a minimum number of legs.
In-Home Assembly: White Glove delivery can be a good investment if you cannot or prefer not to set up your mattress. This type of delivery includes full assembly, often in a room of your choice. Services may also include old mattress removal either for an added fee or no extra charge. White Glove delivery may cost anywhere from $100 to $600, depending on the brand, but some offer it for free.
Old Mattress Removal: Old mattress removal is not available with standard shipping because third-party ground couriers (such as FedEx and USPS) handle the delivery. In most cases, you will need to select White Glove delivery. The cost of White Glove delivery with old mattress removal is usually $150 or more, unless the brand offers it free of charge.
The Best Types of Budget Mattresses
The majority of models sold today fall within one of five categories: hybrid, innerspring, latex, airbed, and foam. These categories are fairly consistent in terms of general construction and materials. However, every individual model offers a unique design and you will notice significant variations within each mattress type. In this next section, we’ll take a closer look at each mattress type.
Hybrid
Definition: A hybrid is a specialized type of innerspring mattress composed of comfort layers of memory foam or latex, along with a support core of pocketed coils. Although softer and firmer hybrids are available, most models we’ve tested have a feel that falls between medium soft and medium firm.
Balanced Feel: We find hybrid mattresses offer the cushioning, contouring, and pressure relief of all-foam and latex beds coupled with the strong support and exceptional breathability of innersprings. For this reason, many consider hybrids the most balanced mattress type. Although the average hybrid costs between $1,600 and $2,000, we’ve found many hybrid models are available for much less.
Innerspring
Definition: The oldest type of mattress still sold today (as well as the cheapest), innersprings consist of foam comfort layers over support cores of open bonnell, offset, or continuous wire coils. Our testers describe innersprings as somewhat firm and very responsive, resulting in an exceptionally bouncy surface.
Steady Cooling: Innerspring coil layers promote strong air circulation. As air travels through the interior of the mattress, it will regulate the overall temperature and help you stay comfortable. And because most innersprings conform very little, testers experience less sinking and more surface cooling. Innersprings are usually quite affordable, with an average price-point of $900 to $1,100.
Latex
Definition: Latex, a material produced from rubber tree sap, is naturally durable and resilient. Latex mattresses often have very long lifespans compared to other beds. The material gives the surface a very responsive feel. Latex is also breathable, resulting in above-average marks in our temperature neutrality tests.
Responsive Pressure Relief: Latex conforms to you to cradle the body and alleviate pressure. However, the material’s responsive feel prevents you from sinking too much. This makes latex beds a popular choice among our testers with pressure point issues who don’t enjoy the deep body cradle of foam. Latex mattresses can be somewhat pricey with an average price-point of $1,600 to $2,000, but budget models are available in the $800 to $1,200 range.
Airbed
Definition: Airbeds feature motorized air chambers in their support cores. You can add or remove air from these chambers to adjust the overall firmness of the mattress. Standard airbeds contain at least two chambers, but some have six or more. Airbeds may also be equipped for different firmness levels on each side.
Unparalleled Customization: Many of today’s airbeds can be adjusted to feel soft, firm, or anywhere in between. This can be especially beneficial if you enjoy different firmness levels on a nightly basis or if you have a partner contrasting preferences. However, we find “budget airbeds” are virtually non-existent. Expect to pay at least $2,000 for a queen mattress, and many exceed the $3,000 mark.
Foam
Definition: Foam mattresses may be built with comfort layers of polyfoam or memory foam. Those that contain both materials in the comfort system are known as mixed-foam models. The support core is always made of high-density polyfoam, and dense transitional layers may also be included for extra sleeper support.
Exceptional Contouring: Our tests find memory foam conforms closely and evenly to the sleeper for good weight distribution, spinal support, and pressure relief throughout the body. Polyfoam also conforms, but a little less so. Foam mattresses are generally low-priced. The average model costs between $900 and $1,200, but many foam beds are available for $800 or less.
Mattress Type
Average lifespan
Average Price
Innerspring
5 to 7 years
$900-$1,100
Foam
6 to 7 years
$900-$1,200
Hybrid
6 to 7 years
$1,600-$2,000
Latex
8 years or longer
$1,600-$2,000
Airbed
8 years or longer
$2,000-$2,400
How to Get The Best Deal on a Mattress
The cost of a mattress often depends on where and when you look for a new bed. We recommend online brands since they tend to be much cheaper than brick-and-mortar sellers. Additionally, you can save money with holiday sales, comparison shopping, and bundling.
Holiday Deals and Sales
Online mattress brands frequently offer sales and promotions that align with holidays. These sales will be prominently advertised throughout the company’s website, including the homepage and individual product pages. Many brick-and-mortar sellers offer holiday sales as well, but you may need to contact or visit the store to learn about these promotions.
In the next section, we’ll take a closer look at what to expect from different holiday sales.
Holiday
Date
Sales Info
President’s Day
3rd Monday in February
Because President’s Day is a federal holiday that falls on a Monday, most people receive a three-day weekend. This is also the first major sales holiday of the year, so you should look for new coupon and discount codes from different brands.
Memorial Day
Last Monday in May
Like President’s Day, Memorial Day is a Monday holiday typically observed over a three-day weekend. Memorial Day is one of the most common mattress sales periods, meaning online brands offer promotions to compete with brick-and-mortar sellers. Expect sizable discounts and coupons.
Independence Day
July 4th
If July 4th falls on a Friday through Monday, people normally receive a three-day weekend. Otherwise, it will be a floating mid-week holiday. That said, online brands often offer sales throughout Independence Day week.
Amazon Prime Day
July 15th
Beginning on July 15th each year, Amazon.com offers a two-day sale for people with Prime memberships. The sale includes lower prices on popular items, as well as free or discounted shipping throughout the U.S. An Amazon Prime membership currently costs $119 per year or about $12 per month. Students can become members for an annual fee of $59.
Labor Day
First Monday in September
Mattress brands often begin sales on the Friday of Labor Day weekend and extend them to the Monday holiday. Generous discounts and coupons for adult and child beds are fairly common.
Veterans Day
November 11th
Veterans Day is always held on November 11th and may fall on any day of the week. Many mattress brands use Veterans Day to kick off sales and promotions that extend throughout the holiday shopping season. Additionally, you should look into the policies of different brands, as some offer discounts to past and present military personnel.
Black Friday
The day after Thanksgiving
Considered the kick-off to holiday shopping season, the consumer holiday known as Black Friday always takes place the day after Thanksgiving. Black Friday usually entails massive online and brick-and-mortar sales. Most major brands offer some sort of Black Friday promotion. This may include not only sales and discounts but also price-matching for other brands.
Cyber Monday
Monday after Thanksgiving
Cyber Monday is a consumer holiday akin to Black Friday, but it exclusively applies to online sales. In many cases, online mattress brands will link Black Friday and Cyber Monday with a weekend of sales and promotions. Expect steep discounts for Cyber Monday. Many brands also offer free bedding supplies, as well as bundling options to help you save money.
Do Your Homework
As with other products, finding cheap beds online requires extensive research into different brands and models. When browsing mattress websites, we recommend keeping an eye out for the following:
Coupons and Discounts: Many brands offer checkout codes that you can apply to your final purchase. These codes may knock a flat dollar amount off the original price or cut it by a certain percentage. Either way, coupons and discounts can save you hundreds of dollars.
Bundling: Online mattress brands frequently offer sheet sets, pillows, foundations, and other bedding accessories. Some will offer bundle deals that allow you to purchase a mattress and an accessory at a discounted rate compared to buying the two items individually. Brands may also include free pillows, mattress protectors, and other products with a mattress purchase.
Price Matching: Some mattress brands will match competitor prices for certain beds. This is more common for brick-and-mortar sellers, but many online brands offer price matching during holiday sales.
Although buying a mattress online is usually the cheapest option, brick-and-mortar stores have one notable advantage: price negotiation. In their quest to complete a sale and receive their commission, sales staff may knock down the price of a new bed.
Buying Online vs. Brick and Mortar Video
Watch the video below to see how buying a mattress online compares to buying from a brick and mortar store
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best affordable mattress to buy?
The wide selection of inexpensive mattresses means that you needn’t compromise when buying on a budget, so the best cheap mattress is one that supports your body type in your preferred sleep position while fulfilling your personal preferences. Different people require different things from a bed, so there will never be one mattress that is best for everyone.
Before shopping for a new mattress, consider what your unique needs are. Once you know what you’re looking for in a bed, you can narrow down your choices by reading independent reviews and learning more about how different budget mattresses perform. A dealbreaker for one person may be a must-have for another, so focus on performance in various categories rather than relying on marketing jargon.
What mattress types are less expensive than others?
While there are budget-friendly options for most types of mattresses, we find all-foam and innerspring models have the lowest average price. These designs are straightforward, making them less pricey than complex hybrid mattresses. They also use less expensive materials than beds with natural latex. However, these qualities do not make them worse than beds with a higher average cost.
Depending on your needs, innerspring and all-foam mattresses can provide years of comfortable nighttime support. All the same, buying on a budget doesn’t mean settling if you have your eye on a hybrid or latex mattress. Some of these beds are available at surprisingly low prices, and you can usually snag extra discounts through online promotions or by waiting for a sale.
Are budget mattresses worth it?
Just because a mattress has an affordable price-point doesn’t mean it’s low-quality. In fact, a budget mattress may meet your needs better than a model that costs twice or even three times as much.
The ideal mattress for any sleeper provides adequate support to prevent their body from sinking excessively, but also feels soft enough to cushion the spine and alleviate pressure. This is why firmness level is one of the most important factors to take into account when choosing a new mattress. If you find an inexpensive mattress with a firmness level that corresponds to your body type and sleep position, then there’s a good chance this mattress will meet your needs.
The best way to determine whether or not a mattress is right for you is to sleep on it. Most online mattress brands offer sleep trials that allow you to test out the bed for at least 90 nights. If you decide the mattress feels too soft or too firm before the trial period ends, you’ll be able to return it in exchange for a full refund – though small return fees may apply in some cases. We recommend taking full advantage of sleep trials in order to find the mattress that’s best for you.
How much does a nice mattress cost?
Mattress prices vary widely depending on materials, construction, warranties, and shipping. The most affordable models can cost under $300 while high-end mattresses can run well over $5,000, though a high sticker price doesn’t always mean better sleep. When choosing a mattress, the most important thing to consider is whether a model is suited to your specific sleep habits. Even if a mattress is the right price, it may be the wrong mattress for your needs.
Online companies that manufacture inexpensive mattresses often save money by cutting out retail spaces and shipping mattresses directly to consumers. Many sleepers can find a mattress that’s comfortable and supportive for under $1,000 or even $500. If there’s a model that’s just out of your budget, it may be worth waiting to purchase – many mattress sellers run holiday sales that can greatly lower the cost.
Still have questions?
Our product experts have extensive experience testing just about every sleep product on the market. Send an email to [email protected] or call us at (877) 672-8966 with your questions and we’ll help you find exactly what you’re looking for.
Keith is a sleep product expert with nearly a decade of experience researching, developing, and testing sleep products.
Sleep Foundation
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Keith Cushner
Sleep Product Expert
Keith is a sleep product expert with nearly a decade of experience researching, developing, and testing sleep products.
At SleepFoundation.org, we personally test every product featured in our reviews and guides. This hands-on approach allows us to provide accurate, data-driven recommendations for mattresses, pillows, sheets, and other sleep essentials.
Guidelines for our testing methodology are as follows:
Every member of our team brings years of industry experience and knowledge to our hands-on evaluations. In addition to testing products, we’ve spoken to sleep experts and toured manufacturing sites.
Our testers fall into different categories based on body type, sleep position, and personal preferences. This level of diversity helps to ensure our product ratings are holistic and inclusive of all sleepers.
Each type of sleep product is tested using a unique set of performance criteria. We also assign ratings based on feedback from testers who fall into specific categories based on weight and sleep position (i.e. side sleepers who weigh 130 to 230 pounds).
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