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We recently updated this list to include the Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Cloud Hybrid as our best pick for pressure relief. The DreamCloud Premier remains our best overall pick.
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For many sleepers, a hybrid mattress represents the best of both worlds. Hybrids combine the contouring comfort layers of all-foam or all-latex beds with the coil systems of traditional innersprings. The result is a balance of pressure relief, responsiveness, edge support, and temperature regulation that other mattress types rarely match.
To help you navigate the wide selection of hybrid models in the market, our expert testing team picked what they consider the best hybrid models based on the performance criteria above.
Watch our video below to learn more about our lab’s top picks for hybrid mattresses.
Our top hybrid picks are described in detail below. We took factors, such as durability and sticker price, into account since these considerations will also influence many shoppers’ decisions. If you are unfamiliar with hybrid beds, scroll down to read our in-depth guide to hybrid mattresses. We cover what hybrid beds are made of, who hybrid beds are best for, and other common questions that relate to hybrid beds.
If a hybrid mattress is outside of your preferred price range, check out our list of the Best Cheap Mattress for suggestions at a lower price-point.
Choose a hybrid if:
Skip a hybrid if…
– You like the bouncy feel of a coil-based mattress
– You are a side sleeper and/or need at least moderate pressure relief
– You weigh over 230 pounds and want a sturdy mattress
– You like having multiple brands and models to choose from
– Your top priority is deep contouring
– You want the utmost in motion isolation
– You need a mattress that is lighter and easier to move
– You are shopping on a limited budget but still want multiple options to choose from
Scroll L – R for more details
Product Details
Best Overall
DreamCloud Premier
Price Range: $999 - $1,899
Mattress Type: Hybrid
Firmness: Medium Firm (6)
Trial length: 365 nights (30-night requirement)
Warranty: Lifetime, limited
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Who it's best for:
Sleepers who experience painful pressure buildup at night
Side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds
Couples
Highlights:
Thick memory foam layers cradle the body for excellent pressure relief
Foam absorbs movement to prevent motion transfer
Cashmere blend cover feels soft to touch
$799 special offer! $200 off mattresses + $599 in premium accessories included
The deep plushness of the DreamCloud Premier helps it stand apart from other hybrids we’ve tested. Beds with this level of softness often sink too much, but the Premier cradles the body closely without compromising on support.
The DreamCloud Premier has a thick luxurious construction composed of plush foam layers and a supportive coil base. Of all the hybrid models we’ve tested, this mattress offers one of the most even balances of comfort and support. This means the bed performed well across multiple performance categories in our test lab.
How It Performed
All of our testers experienced deep cradling from the bed’s thick foam layers, which helped ease pressure off the shoulders and hips – areas that are particularly prone to pressure buildup during sleep. The thick foam design also absorbed motion well, so we hardly felt each other’s movements when testing the mattress for motion isolation. For a bed with such exceptional plushness, the Premier still retains strong edge support thanks to the reinforced perimeter.
Every tester across all sleep positions and weight categories rated this model favorably, but our side-sleeping testers between 130 and 230 pounds gave it the highest marks. These testers received excellent cushioning for their shoulders and hips but still felt supported in the lower back.
What It’s Made of
The DreamCloud Premier begins with a cover made of a cashmere blend fabric, quilted with an inch of memory foam that closely cradled our bodies during tests. Beneath is an inch of polyfoam with a slightly more supportive feel, followed by a 2.5-inch memory foam layer that’s zoned to give you extra support where your body needs it. Another inch of polyfoam buffers your body from the 8.5-inch coil system, which comprises the bed’s base.
You will receive a 365-night sleep trial with this mattress, and it’s further backed by a lifetime warranty. DreamCloud offers free shipping throughout the contiguous U.S.
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature is rare in the online mattress industry: an affordable hybrid that performs well across most of our performance categories. Each firmness level is distinct, and most of us found at least one option that offered enough support.
If you’re in the market for a hybrid mattress but have a limited shopping budget, the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is a great option. While the price-point for this mattress falls well below average for a hybrid model, high-quality materials and strong performance across the board elevate the Signature Hybrid to the same level as many of its more expensive competitors we’ve tested.
How It Performed
The Signature Hybrid is available in three firmness levels: medium soft (4), medium firm (6), and firm (8). Performance for the Signature Hybrid depends largely on your selected firmness level. The medium soft model was most popular among the side sleepers on our testing team who weigh up to 230 pounds, as well as back sleepers under 130 pounds. Medium firm models earned the most favorable ratings from back and stomach sleepers between 130 to 230 pounds. Lastly, the firm Signature Hybrid fared best with back and stomach sleepers who weigh at least 130 pounds.
Regardless of firmness, our testers noticed a fair amount of responsiveness from this mattress. The TitanFlex layer cushions the body to a noticeable extent but also feels bouncy, making it relatively easy for testers to move across the surface. The perimeter coils also minimized sinkage along the edges, especially those with medium firm or firm feels. The Signature Hybrid excelled in our temperature neutrality tests thanks to steady airflow through the coils.
What It’s Made of
Medium soft and medium firm models begin with adaptive foam quilted into the cover, followed by a comfort layer of TitanFlex. We noticed this proprietary material offers a balance of cushioning and latex-like responsiveness. A dense polyfoam transitional layer rounds out the comfort system. Firm models feature the same components, but the top two layers are thinner, and the transitional layer is thicker to create a more supportive feel.
All versions of the Signature Hybrid are constructed with pocketed coil support cores. Each coil moves independently from the others, and testers noted great stability for the mattress without too much motion transfer. Coils along the perimeter are reinforced to prevent deep sinkage when you get in and out of bed. The entire mattress is encased in a breathable knit cover.
The Signature Hybrid is available in 14 different sizes, including a split California king if you own an adjustable bed and several options for RV owners. In addition to an affordable price-point, the Signature Hybrid qualifies for free ground shipping anywhere in the contiguous U.S. Each order comes with a 120-night sleep trial and a 10-year warranty.
Our testing team was impressed with the Helix Midnight’s pressure relief capabilities. The surface felt quite plush and caters to many types of sleepers, especially if you sleep on your side and typically experience pressure buildup.
Helix has an extensive line of hybrid mattresses designed for specific types of sleepers in terms of position and body type. The Helix Midnight is one of the brand’s most popular offerings thanks to a balanced medium firm (6) design that cushions and contours to your body while providing sturdy overall support. Our testing found these qualities make the mattress particularly well-suited to side sleeping.
How It Performed
The mattress performed best among our side sleepers over 130 pounds and most back and stomach sleepers under 230 pounds. The memory foam contoured evenly to reduce pressure for our testers without sinking too much. Reinforced coils along the perimeter limit sinkage when you get in and out of bed. We also found the coils promote enough airflow to help the mattress sleep cool despite memory foam beneath the surface.
An affordable price-point makes the Helix Midnight a compelling choice if you want a well-made yet affordable hybrid option. If you want a step up, we recommend opting for the pricier Helix Midnight Luxe, which includes an extra layer of gel-infused foam and a zoned design to the innerspring coils.
What It’s Made of
The construction of the Helix Midnight starts with a 100% polyester cover that feels smooth and soft, and we found it retains little heat. Below the cover, the comfort system includes two layers of foam. The top layer is Helix’s formulation of memory foam, known as Memory Plus Foam. Our testers noted that it compresses to accommodate pressure points but with slightly more bounce and less heat buildup than traditional memory foam.
Beneath the memory foam is a layer of transition polyfoam. This material felt firmer, working along with the support core to keep you from sinking too far into the bed. The Helix Midnight’s support core has two layers, the larger of which is made with pocketed innerspring coils. As in other hybrids we’ve tested, these coils improved edge support and responsiveness while transferring less motion than old-fashioned coils. A thin layer of high-density polyfoam serves as a shock-absorbing base for the coils.
The Helix Midnight comes with a 100-night risk-free sleep trial and is protected by a 10-year warranty covering mattress defects. Customers living in all 50 states are eligible for free shipping.
The WinkBed is a great option if you’re looking for a particularly balanced hybrid bed. The four firmness options, including the WinkBed Plus, ensure a comfortable model for most sleepers.
If you prefer a hybrid mattress that offers cushioning while staying responsive, the WinkBed is a first-rate choice. The mattress earns high marks for its overall performance and comfortability. While the bed has a sturdy feel, it also delivers notable pressure relief that we found can help alleviate back pain at night.
How It Performed
The WinkBed comes in three firmness levels – Softer (4), Luxury Firm (6), and Firmer (7) – as well as the WinkBed Plus (8), designed specifically for sleepers over 230 pounds. Depending on the firmness you choose, the WinkBed offers distinct benefits.
The Softer WinkBed earned high marks from our side and back sleepers under 130 pounds, who prefer a bit of extra cushioning. The Luxury Firm model was the most versatile and balanced. Our back and stomach sleepers up to 230 pounds benefitted from this mix of cushioning and support. Side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds enjoyed this feel as well. Side sleepers weighing more than 230 pounds, as well as back and stomach sleepers who weigh at least 130 pounds enjoyed the Firmer WinkBed. The WinkBed Plus was a hit among our testers over 230 pounds across sleeping position groups.
All WinkBed models offer superior edge support thanks to the reinforced perimeter coils. The coil system also circulates air throughout the interior, which helps keep the mattress very cool. The bed generates less motion transfer than other hybrids we’ve tested, but if you prioritize motion isolation, we recommend opting for the Softer model. Couples who value responsiveness for sex should find any model suitable, but the Luxury Firm, Firmer, and Plus options earned the highest ratings.
What It’s Made of
All models begin with a quilted Euro-top composed of gel-infused polyfoam inside a Tencel cover. The Softer, Luxury Firm, and Firmer WinkBeds feature a firmer layer of SupportCell polyfoam beneath the pillow-top. Our testers noted this proprietary material offers even contouring, but a dense composition enables it to push back moderately against your body and keep you from sinking into the core. For additional support, the WinkBed Plus features a layer of latex.
The support core is composed of pocketed coils. These springs are arranged to give the mattress a more robust feel around the edges and in other key support zones. Because they are individually wrapped, each coil retains an independent range of motion, allowing them to react directly to your body’s pressure. As a result, we found these coils can cut down on motion transfer and provide greater spinal support.
Shipping to customers in the contiguous U.S. is free. For all models, WinkBeds provides a 120-night sleep trial to test the bed, during which you can exchange for a new firmness level for free. If unsatisfied, you can return the mattress anytime after the 30-night break-in period for a full refund. The WinkBed comes with a lifetime warranty against structural defects.
We found that the Saatva Classic offers outstanding contouring and pressure relief for areas like the shoulders, hips, and spine. The bed also runs slightly cooler than other hybrids we’ve tested, thanks to the breathable coil-on-coil design.
The Saatva Classic is a luxury hybrid that comes in three different firmness options to cater to your unique sleep preferences. With coils in both its support core and comfort system, the Saatva is an innovative take on the traditional innerspring from which we detected a good balance of support, pressure relief, and bounce.
How It Performed
You can opt for a soft (3), medium firm (6), or firm (8) option in 11.5- and 14.5-inch profiles to suit your preferences. The firm feel was best suited to testers who weigh at least 130 pounds, especially those who sleep on their backs or stomachs. We also found cooling to be a major strength of the Saatva Classic. Two coil layers circulate air to help the mattress maintain a comfortable temperature, and the cover is composed of breathable organic cotton. The coil layers also reinforce the edges to prevent sinkage and help you easily get in and out of bed.
What It’s Made of
We appreciated the Saatva’s sharp-looking design with a Euro-top and moisture-wicking organic cotton cover. The Euro-top contains soft foam that cushions the mattress and lightens the impact on your pressure points. A foam layer beneath includes a lumbar pad that promoted spinal alignment for our testers, followed by a layer of pocketed micro-coils that enhanced the bed’s responsiveness. The support core features recycled-steel hourglass coils encased in high-density foam around the perimeter that prevented our testers from slipping off at the edges.
Saatva offers free White Glove delivery within the contiguous U.S. This includes in-home setup and old mattress haul-away at no extra charge. The bed comes with a 365-night sleep trial, during which you can try out the mattress and return it for a $99 fee. A lifetime warranty covers defects in the mattress for as long as you retain full ownership.
The Bear Elite Hybrid is a foam hybrid with a balanced feel that our testers with back pain thoroughly appreciated. The foam layer provides cushioning along the spine, while the foam layers prevent midsection sagging.
Hybrid mattresses usually have a balanced feel, thanks to the cushioning from the comfort system and pushback from the support core. The Bear Elite Hybrid stands out from similar mattresses we’ve tested with a specifically tailored design for alleviating pain and spinal misalignment. If you tend to experience pressure buildup in the upper or lower back, we recommend trying this pick.
How It Performed
The mattress is available in three firmness levels – medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (8). Our testers noted substantial pressure relief, thanks to the foam comfort layers. However, the medium model edged out the firmer models in this area because of its deeper cradling. Meanwhile, the coils push back and support the lumbar region, creating even support throughout your body. Side and back sleepers on our team found the softer models more comfortable, while stomach sleepers preferred the firm model for adequate support.
If you tend to sleep hot at night, the Celliant and phase change material are engineered to keep the surface cool and dry. The polyfoam also features unique channels that help air circulate through the comfort system. The coil system provides further ventilation and airflow.
What It’s Made of
All three options begin with a polyester cover made with Celliant fabric and phase change material. Beneath is a memory foam layer that conforms to your body to relieve pressure, followed by a firmer polyfoam layer that offers targeted pressure relief to your hips and shoulders. The support core contains a pocketed coil system that generated strong support and responsiveness during our tests.
The Bear Elite Hybrid is backed by a 120-night sleep trial and lifetime warranty. If you reside in the contiguous U.S., you’re eligible for free shipping.
The Nolah Evolution 15 comes in three firmness levels, so you should be able to find an option that feels comfortable for you. All models had a balance of cushioning along the spine and support, so we recommend them if you have trouble maintaining healthy spinal alignment.
The Nolah Evolution 15 kept our testers on an even plane with plush foam comfort layers to evenly distribute weight, and a zoned pocketed coil support core to prevent uncomfortable sinkage to maintain healthy sleep posture. You can choose from three firmness levels – medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (8) – offering comfortable options regardless of your sleeping position or weight group.
How It Performed
Thanks to the three firmness options, the Nolah Evolution suits a variety of sleepers. Our testing team found the medium (5) feel best suited to side sleepers up to 230 pounds and back sleepers under 130 pounds. The medium firm (6) and firm (8) options were popular among our back- and stomach-sleeping testers.
The three models also had slight differences in performance. All performed well regarding responsiveness for sex, temperature regulation, and ease of movement, but the medium firm and firm models excelled in these categories. The firm model also performed slightly better in edge support, making it an excellent choice if you have trouble getting in and out of bed. In terms of pressure relief, the medium feel outperformed other models. Our testers with sharp pressure points and lower back pain benefitted from this model.
What It’s Made of
A cover made from proprietary ArcticTex fabric encases the mattress, which begins with polyfoam quilted into the Euro-top. ArticTex fabric is designed to keep the surface cool to the touch. Next is a layer of proprietary AirFoamICE, a graphite-infused polyfoam meant to conduct heat away from the body to regulate temperature. Our testers noted this layer also gently cradles the body to relieve pressure buildup in the joints.
Two dense polyfoam transitional layers prevent you from sinking excessively and help evenly distribute your weight. Pocketed coils in the support core are zoned around your midsection and the perimeter for extra reinforcement. The coils rest on a base layer made from recycled plant fibers. The bottom half of the encasement features handles, so you can easily move the mattress around.
Nolah ships free to the contiguous U.S. and offers a 120-night sleep trial. You can opt out of the sleep trial to save up to $160 on your purchase. Evolution 15 purchases are backed by lifetime warranties, which protect against structural defects.
Our testers found that the Silk & Snow Hybrid offers the spinal cushioning we normally associate with foam, while the coil support core keeps the body on an even plane. Thanks to the balanced feel across sleeping positions, we recommend this pick if you tend to switch positions throughout the night.
The Silk & Snow Hybrid is a well-rounded bed made of foam and a pocketed coil core. This balanced design is a good fit if you seek strong cushioning along the spine without sacrificing support for healthy sleep posture, even if you frequently switch positions at night.
How It Performed
Of all the sleep positions, side sleepers on our team found this bed most comfortable. This sleep position exerts extra pressure on the shoulders and hips, so the foam layers should minimize pressure buildup in these areas. Our back sleepers up to 230 pounds also found this bed fairly comfortable. We found that this bed sleeps fairly cool, thanks to the air circulation through the coils. In addition, the foam layers aren’t exceptionally thick, so they contour your body less and ultimately trap less heat than thicker foam layers.
What It’s Made of
The mattress begins with a layer of quilted polyfoam, followed by a layer of high-density memory foam. These layers closely contour to your body to alleviate pressure buildup. The support core is composed of pocketed coils that respond to your body but also push back to generate support. The coils are zoned with enhanced lumbar support to ensure your midsection won’t sink in excessively. A polyester and spandex cover is engineered to reduce antimicrobial growth.
Silk & Snow offers a 100-night sleep trial and 15-year warranty if you choose to keep the mattress beyond the trial. Shipping is free to the contiguous U.S. and all Canadian provinces.
The Birch Mattress is a latex hybrid that offers cradling for pressure points without retaining too much heat. Hot sleepers on our team highly recommend this pick.
If you’re looking for an affordable and cooling mattress made with organic materials, the Birch Mattress is a good place to start your search. The latex comfort system has a responsive feel that naturally retains less heat, making it a great choice for hot sleepers. The mattress has a sophisticated design that should feel comfortable if you enjoy a medium firm (6) feel.
How It Performed
The Birch’s latex comfort layer provides moderate cradling for your hips and shoulders, while the coil system prevents your lower back from sinking too deeply. Our side, back, and stomach sleepers up to 230 pounds all received excellent support from this bed, with just enough cushioning to cradle their spines and other pressure points. Hot sleepers on our team also found the Birch comfortable thanks to the breathable wool and cotton layers and the air circulation between the coils.
What It’s Made of
The bed features a cover made of organic cotton, a material that is naturally breathable and moisture-wicking. This is followed by natural wool batting that acts as a fire barrier. Next is a layer of latex that gently cradles your body while providing strong support. The support core has a coil system with a zoned design that prevents midsection sagging. Some coils are zoned along the perimeter of the mattress to protect you from sinking when sitting along the edges.
Birch ships for free throughout all 50 states. You have 100 days to try out the mattress and may return the bed for a full refund after a required 30-day break-in period. The bed comes with a 25-year warranty.
If you enjoy the feel of all-foam beds but need something just a bit more supportive, we highly recommend the Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Cloud Hybrid. This bed combines the excellent contouring of TEMPUR memory foam with ample coil support.
Tempur-Pedic offers an extensive lineup of mattresses constructed with TEMPUR memory foam, a material touted for its excellent pressure relief. The TEMPUR-Cloud Hybrid combines TEMPUR foam with a layer of coils that generated sturdy support during our tests while preserving the brand’s signature contouring.
How It Performed
The TEMPUR-Cloud has a medium (5) feel that toes the line between deep contouring and firm support. The side sleepers on our team, particularly those who weigh up to 230 pounds, received enough cushioning around the shoulders and hips to improve their spinal alignment and reduce pressure points in sensitive areas. Back sleepers in the same weight range rested comfortably without deep sinkage around the midsection.
Couples should be satisfied with the TEMPUR-Cloud. The two TEMPUR foam layers, along with the high-density polyfoam base, absorbed movement on each side of the bed and practically eliminated motion transfer across the surface – a common source of sleep disruptions for people who share their bed with someone else. The mattress is also completely silent, so you and your partner don’t need to worry about creaks when the other person changes positions or gets in and out of bed.
What It’s Made of
The TEMPUR-Cloud Hybrid begins with two layers of TEMPUR memory foam. The top layer molds closely to your body while the second TEMPUR layer is denser and adds reinforcement. Next you’ll find a thick layer of coils that respond to the body while also offering strong support through the mattress and along the edges. The cover is made of a stretch fabric that’s designed for breathability and moisture-wicking.
The TEMPUR-Cloud is somewhat pricey at first glance, but its durable design and premium materials will represent a good investment for certain sleepers – particularly those with chronic pain and pressure points. Tempur-Pedic also provides free ground delivery within the contiguous U.S. You’ll receive a 90-night sleep trial and 10-year warranty with your purchase.
Each sleep expert on our team brings years of experience and expertise to our hands-on mattress evaluations. For our list of the best hybrid mattresses, we called on testers with varying body types, primary sleep positions, and firmness preferences. This ensures our ratings and recommendations represent most people regardless of how much they weigh, which position they favor most, and which kind of sleep surface they like best.
How We Evaluated These Mattresses
Our testers take turns lying on each mattress to see how firm or soft it feels, and how closely it conforms to the body. We also rely on special sensors and mapping tools to evaluate mattresses for performance areas like temperature neutrality and pressure relief. After tabulating our ratings for different categories, we’re pleased to present our findings – but we’ll continue to revisit our results and evaluate new mattresses to make sure our best hybrid selections are accurate and up to date.
Motion Isolation: Couples who are frequently disturbed by their partner changing positions at night may benefit from a mattress that isolates motion well. Usually, these feature thick comfort layers made from slow-response materials like memory foam.
Temperature Control: Hot sleepers tend to prefer a mattress with strong temperature control. Hybrids tend to perform well in this category thanks to extra airflow through the coil support core.
Pressure Relief: Mattresses can relieve pressure with comfort layers that contour evenly to the body and evenly distribute weight. Side sleepers and those with joint pain should prioritize this criteria.
Off-Gassing: Off-gassing odors can arise from newly unboxed mattresses, particularly those made with foam layers. Although they are relatively harmless, many sleepers find the odors unpleasant.
Ease of Movement: Ease of movement refers to how effortlessly a sleeper can change positions on the mattress. A hybrid mattress’ coil support core helps facilitate easier movement.
Edge Support: Mattresses with strong edges allow sleepers to sleep or sit closer to the perimeter without slipping off. Some hybrid mattresses feature reinforced coils along the perimeter for enhanced edge support.
Sex: Thanks to their coil support cores, hybrids offer a bouncy feel many couples prefer for sex. Mattresses with higher marks in ease of movement and edge support also tend to perform well in this category.
Body Weight: Body weight is a major determining factor for a sleeper’s firmness needs, but factors like your sleeping position and firmness preference matter as well. Our recommendations are subjective, so we recommend that sleepers try out multiple models to see what suits them best.
Hybrid mattresses tend to be most popular among people who value bounce in a mattress, including couples and combination sleepers. People over 230 pounds often appreciate a sturdy hybrid construction that supports the body without too much sink. Minimal heat retention by coils also makes hybrids a winner for if you tend to sleep hot.
But the appeal of hybrids can extend far beyond just those people thanks to the diverse ways that the comfort system of these mattresses can be constructed. With numerous hybrids on the market, you should be able to find one that fits your needs.
What to Look For in a Hybrid Mattress
Effective mattress shopping requires identifying your priorities and the mattresses that best align with them.
Hybrids tend to provide notable bounce. This is one of their most consistent characteristics along with above-average edge support and temperature regulation.
On the other hand, hybrids may not offer as much contouring or motion isolation as some other mattress types. Their price tag can also be out of reach for some shoppers.
Even though there are similarities between hybrids, not all of them have the same performance. Learning about the key factors that influence satisfaction with a mattress can help you decide on your priorities and pick out the hybrid that best fits them.
Price: A mattress is a large expense, and you have to consider price in your decision-making. That said, there are great values available, especially when shopping online, so it’s possible to find a great mattress even if you’re on a budget.
Sleeping Position: The alignment of your body in different sleeping positions affects whether a mattress will feel supportive and comfortable. Side sleepers need more cushioning while back and stomach sleepers do best with firmer beds. With their wide range of designs, hybrids can be found to suit any sleeping posture.
Comfort System Material: Although there are commonalities in the performance of hybrids, you will find notable variation that depends on how the comfort system is built. Looking carefully at the included materials, their thickness, and how they are layered can provide insight about the strengths and weaknesses of any hybrid.
Contouring: The terms contouring, conforming, cradling, and hug all describe the same aspect of how a mattress reacts to the body’s weight. With more contouring, a mattress can soften impact at pressure points. Deep contouring, most associated with memory foam, can be helpful for side sleepers but may be overkill for others, especially because it can increase heat retention around the body.
Quality Materials: Choosing a mattress with high-quality materials is a great way to get a stronger return on your investment. Better materials translate to better performance and durability. Look for a mattress that doesn’t cut corners, meaning there are no weak or shoddy layers within its construction.
Firmness Level: No factor influences comfort as much as firmness. Most people prefer medium to medium firm, but others want something harder or softer. Firmness needs can also depend on your weight and sleeping position. Thankfully, hybrids are offered in a range of firmness levels, giving you plenty of options to find a good fit.
Pressure Relief: Pressure points are areas that need extra support. Examples include the shoulders and hips of side sleepers or the lumbar spine of back and stomach sleepers. Contouring without excessive sagging can relieve pressure, and you should examine the design of a hybrid’s comfort system to determine how well it achieves this.
Motion Isolation: If you share a bed, you want to be able to stay asleep when your partner moves around on the bed. This is much easier on a mattress with good motion isolation. Hybrids can transfer motion because of their bounce, but comfort system materials, including memory foam, can reduce movement-driven sleep disruptions.
Ease of Movement / Sex: A responsive mattress has a bouncy feel that permits easier movement on top of the bed, including the quick movement associated with sex. Coils create a baseline level of bounce in hybrids, but some comfort system materials, such as latex, can enhance that responsiveness even further.
Edge Support: Structural integrity around the edge of a mattress is higher in hybrids compared to other mattress types. Many hybrids also have reinforced edges. Nevertheless, edge support can be an issue on very soft beds or those with less responsive foams in the comfort system.
Temperature Regulation: In this case, keeping your cool isn’t about attitude; it’s about avoiding overheating at night. Hybrids allow for plenty of airflow through the support core, helping to regulate temperature. If you tend to run hot, look for materials and designs in the comfort system that keep heat buildup to a minimum.
Noise: A quiet mattress avoids annoying squeaks that can disturb sleep. Silence from your mattress also makes sexual activity more discrete. Coils can be noisy, but most modern hybrids cut down on noise through high-quality coils and surrounding foams meant to absorb excess noise.
How Does it Feel to Sleep on a Hybrid Mattress?
The feel of a hybrid can vary based on the details of how its interior layers are constructed. Nevertheless, some common characteristics help explain what it’s like to sleep on a hybrid.
All in Balance: Expect that you’ll have a blend of features including motion isolation, conforming, and bounce.
Never Get Stuck: On most hybrids, you’ll notice that it has at least a moderately bouncy feel, making it simple to adjust your position and not feel stuck in the bed.
Out on the Edge: If you find yourself sitting or sleeping near the perimeter of a hybrid, you’ll normally notice the stability that comes from enhanced edge support.
Going Steady: The robust design of a hybrid, including its innerspring support core, provides a steady and reliable feel that you may find comforting.
How are Hybrids Constructed?
There are two required elements for a mattress to be a true hybrid:
A support core made of innerspring coils.
A substantial comfort system above the coils.
While the comfort system can be made of many different types of materials, the support core must be coil-based. The “springless hybrids” that are marketed by some manufacturers may be quality mattresses, but they are not true hybrids.
All hybrids have two common elements, but the way those components can be constructed creates diversity among the hybrids on the market in terms of price, feel, and performance.
Hybrid beds are composed of a comfort system on top and coils on the bottom.
Coil Types
A hybrid support core may utilize one of several different types of coils.
Pocketed Coils
Also known as individually wrapped or fabric-encased coils, pocketed coils are made by covering each coil in cloth and then stitching the cloth together. We find this method of linking the coils gives them a greater ability to isolate motion and tailor to the body. Because of these features, pocketed coils are the most common type we see in modern hybrids.
Bonnell Coils
A basic hourglass-shaped spring system, each coil in a Bonnell system is connected directly to the internal lattice structure that holds them all together. This means that the coils are less flexible and are more affected by the compression of nearby coils. Though they have a lower cost, Bonnell coils transfer more motion and offer less support.
Continuous Wire Coils
Continuous wire coils look a great deal like Bonnell coils and have a similar performance. The primary difference is that all of the springs are actually fashioned out of one single piece of wire.
Offset Coils
Offset coils give individual springs more flexibility by not connecting the coils themselves to the interior structure. Instead, they are attached by a small piece of metal. While the increased range of motion gives offset coils better marks in motion isolation than Bonnell coils, they are not as effective as pocketed coils in this regard.
Foams
Most hybrid comfort systems involve one or more types of foam that can play a central role in the overall mattress performance.
Memory Foam
Memory foam is known for its deep body conforming and slow response to pressure. You will get the sensation of being ‘hugged’ by your mattress, which relieves pressure. While usually hybrid mattresses have limited memory foam layer thickness, some models feature the deep-conforming of all-memory foam mattresses. Another effect of the conforming is great motion isolation. We find motion hardly transfers across the surface of memory foam, making it a great option for couples and light sleepers.
It depends on the firmness of the mattress as a whole, but memory foam is generally suited for side and back sleepers. If you sleep on your stomach but still love the feel of memory foam, we recommend you opt for a firmer memory foam model hybrid model.
The biggest drawback of memory foam is that it tends to trap a lot of body heat, making for less temperature control. Nonetheless, since coil support cores allow for a lot of airflow throughout the mattress, this is often balanced in hybrid mattresses. Another potential drawback is the ‘stuck’ feeling some sleepers tend to get when trying to move around a bed with memory foam
Polyfoam
Polyfoam conforms to your body like memory foam, but is more responsive to pressure. This leads to slightly less pressure relief, but greater ease of movement and temperature control. Polyfoam isolates motion well, but not as well as memory foam.
Like memory foam, polyfoam hybrids generally suit side and back sleepers, while the firmest models with thin polyfoam can work for stomach sleepers. Polyfoam hybrids are generally the most affordable types of hybrids we test.
Polyfoam shares the same drawbacks as memory foam, but to a lesser extent. Polyfoam hybrids are generally a good all-around budget option.
Latex
Latex hybrids are some of the most luxurious mattresses on the market. Latex conforms moderately to your body, relieving some pressure, but not as much as memory foam. What makes latex stand out is its responsiveness. Latex has a nice bounce to it, which makes it easy to maneuver around the mattress. Latex also performs well in our temperature neutrality and durability categories — as latex hybrids are generally the most cool and long-lasting beds.
Since latex comes in multiple firmensses, they should be suitable for regardless of your sleeping position or weight. If you’re heavier or sleep on your stomach, we recommend you look for a firmer model.
The one big drawback of latex is its price-point. Latex hybrids are significantly more expensive than many types of beds. Also, if you have chronic pain issues or are just a huge fan of the deep conforming of memory foam, latex may not be the way to go.
Memory Foam vs Hybrids vs. Innerspring vs. Latex
A hybrid gets its name from the fact that it includes elements of both foam and innerspring mattresses. One way to help decide whether a hybrid is right for you is to consider its pros and cons in relation to those other mattress types.
Memory Foam Mattresses
Hybrids
Innersprings
Latex Mattresses
Support Core
Polyfoam
Innerspring Coils
Innerspring Coils
Latex
Comfort System Profile
Significant
Minimal to Significant
Minimal or None
Significant
Comfort System Material
Memory foam
Memory foam, polyfoam, latex, and/or micro-coils
Fabrics (cotton, polyester)
Latex
Pressure Relief
High
Medium to High
Low
Low to Medium
Responsiveness / Ease of Movement
Low
Medium to High
High
High
Motion Isolation
High
Medium to High
Low
Medium
Temperature Regulation
Low
Medium to High
High
High
Durability
6-8 years or longer
6-8 years or longer
5 years
8 years or longer
Price Point
Medium to High
Medium to High
Low
High
Scroll L – R for more details
How Much Does a Hybrid Mattress Cost?
A hybrid queen mattress can cost between $1,200 and $2,000. That said, there are hybrids available with a retail price below $1,200. In addition, promotions and discounts frequently make even more expensive hybrids accessible at a lower price point.
Hybrids can have greater price variance than some other mattress types because of the different ways that the comfort system and support core can be constructed. Factors that can influence the price include:
The total thickness of the comfort system
The type and quality of materials in the comfort system
The thickness and type of coils in the support core
The use of specialty materials, including those that are organic or sustainably produced
Extra features meant to promote cooling or muscle recovery
If the mattress was made in the USA or internationally
How Much Does a Mattress Cost – Video
For a more in-depth look at mattress costs, watch this explanatory video from our Sleep Foundation Lab.
Density and ILD
As you read about comfort systems in hybrids, you may come across technical descriptions of the density and indentation load-deflection (ILD) of foam layers.
Density
Foam density is a way of describing how heavy and compact the material is. It is determined by weighing a cube of foam that is one foot long on each side, forming a measurement called pounds per cubic foot (PCF).
Besides just affecting its weight, density can also impact durability and performance. Most important for you to know is that a higher-density foam is less prone to wearing out. It can also offer a slightly firmer feel, although density is not perfectly correlated with firmness.
You should look for higher-density foams, especially in the comfort system, if you:
Have a body weight over 230 pounds
Put more stress on your mattress (from sex, kids jumping on the bed, etc.)
Want a firmer feel that will be slower to soften over time
Place an emphasis on mattress durability
Looking at PCF numbers can be confusing because different types of foams naturally have different densities. Polyfoam has a wider range of densities depending on the part of the mattress in which it is being used.
Type of Foam
Density Range
Memory foam
3-5 PCF
Polyfoam (comfort system)
2-4 PCF
Polyfoam (transition foam)
1.5-3 PCF
Polyfoam (support core)
1-2 PCF
Scroll L – R for more details
Indentation Load-Deflection (ILD)
ILD is a method for quantifying how easily a material compresses. It is measured by seeing how much force must be applied to a foam before it compresses to a specified level.
ILD Table
Firmness Category
ILD Measurement
Best for…
Soft
10-12
People under 130 pounds
Medium
12-14
Side sleepers up to 230 pounds
Medium firm
14-16
Most sleepers
Firm
16-18
Most stomach and back sleepers; people over 230 pounds
Scroll L – R for more details
Knowing the ILD of a material can give insight into its firmness but with two caveats:
Not all manufacturers measure ILD in exactly the same way, so it’s not a perfect apples-to-apples comparison.
The ILD of one layer can be influenced by the surrounding layers, so the total comfort system should be evaluated as a whole.
How Long Will a Hybrid Mattress Last?
Most hybrid mattresses should last for at least 6 years. The typical lifespan is 6 to 8 years, but in some cases, they may continue performing at a high level for longer than that.
Hybrids typically last longer than innersprings. Their lifespan is comparable to foam mattresses and airbeds but shorter than most all-latex mattresses.
As with any mattress type, the durability of a hybrid will depend on its interior construction. If the hybrid is thoughtfully designed and then filled with high-quality materials, it will be far more likely for its useful life to extend beyond the normal range.
Use and maintenance of a mattress can affect durability as well. More weight can put greater strain on a mattress, so couples and people with a higher body weight may find that a mattress does not last as long. To promote the longevity of your mattress, consider the following tips:
Use a well-made bed frame that complies with the recommendations of the mattress manufacturer.
Only clean your mattress according to manufacturer instructions.
If you have children, try to limit their jumping on the bed.
If you have pets, keep their nails trimmed and consider keeping them off the mattress entirely.
Avoid eating or drinking in bed, which can lead to damaging spills.
If potential spills or pet accidents are unavoidable, consider using a mattress protector.
Last Things to Consider With a Hybrid Mattress
As you prepare to seek out your ideal hybrid mattress, there are a few final considerations and useful pieces of information that can make you an informed and empowered shopper.
Coil Count
Coil count is a way of quantifying the total number of springs in a mattress. For most shoppers, this data point, especially viewed by itself, can be more misleading than helpful because the number of coils alone doesn’t tell you anything about their type, thickness, or quality. Don’t assume that a higher coil count means a higher-quality innerspring support core.
Coil Gauge
The gauge is the thickness of the coils. In counter-intuitive fashion, a higher gauge means a thinner coil. Most innerspring cores have coils with a gauge from 13 (thicker) to 18 (thinner). Lower gauge coils tend to provide a firmer, steadier feel and usually hold up better over time.
The support core may not have the same gauge of coils throughout. For example, lower gauge coils may be used around the perimeter for edge support or placed in a zoned arrangement to bolster the bed under certain parts of the body.
Off-Gassing
Some materials, most notably foams, can put off a noticeable smell when they are first set up in your home. The smell comes from volatile organic compounds (VOCs) generated during foam production. These VOCs are not a health risk, but they can be bothersome.
Off-gassing tends to be worse with lower-quality foams. All-foam mattresses normally off-gas more than hybrids.
Even when the smell is bad, it typically goes away within a few hours if your bedroom is well-ventilated. At worst, it should not last more than a few days.
Profile
Since hybrid mattresses often have both substantial comfort layers and support cores, they tend to have a higher-profile, or height, than other types of mattresses. The profile of a mattress doesn’t affect the comfort of a mattress in of itself, but taller mattresses have more room for layers, giving them more potential for increased support and conforming.
One thing people should consider when shopping for higher-profile mattresses is sheet size mattress that are twelve or more inches often require deep-pocketed sheets, as normal ones have the potential to slip off. Additionally, those with issues getting in an out of bed may prefer a taller mattress, although since many people use bed frames of varying heights, this isn’t always a factor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a hybrid mattress?
Hybrid mattresses combine a thick polyfoam, memory foam, or latex comfort system with a coil support core. This coil core can be similar in design to an innerspring, but the most common and popular models now use pocketed coils — fabric-wrapped coils that can compress individually for improved support and durability as well as reduced motion transfer.
Intended to marry the best qualities of foam and innerspring beds, hybrid mattresses tend to perform well in important areas like support, temperature regulation, and pressure relief. However, the wide variety of hybrid design does mean that individual mattresses can perform very differently. Most people can find a hybrid mattress that fits their needs, but not all hybrids are a good choice.
How much do hybrid mattresses cost?
While the average price of a Queen size hybrid mattress is between $1,200 and $2,000 thanks to their complex designs, there are many budget-friendly and luxury-priced hybrid mattresses available as well. There is more price variation among hybrid mattresses than most other mattress types. Customers should prepare to set their budget based on the thickness, construction, materials, and additional features they’re interested in. As with other mattress types, it is also possible to buy hybrid mattresses at a lower cost through online discounts and promotions or by waiting for a sale.
How durable are hybrid mattresses?
A well-made hybrid mattress is quite durable, with an average lifespan of 6 to 8 years so long as it is properly maintained. Compared to other mattress types, they are significantly more durable than innersprings but have a similar lifespan to foam and airbed mattresses, with only all-latex beds ranking above them in durability.
Hybrid mattresses with a pocketed coil support core are a better choice for durability than an innerspring design, and latex comfort systems tend to last much longer than those made from polyfoam or memory foam. The way you use your mattress and how much weight it carries each night will also impact its lifespan.
Can you buy a hybrid mattress in a box?
Many leading “mattress in a box” brands include hybrid models in their lineups, and some exclusively sell hybrids. Over the past decade, the popularity of hybrids has enjoyed a major uptick among mattress shoppers. This can largely be attributed to the design of these beds, which combines the cushioning and pressure relief of comfort layer materials like memory foam and latex with the unparalleled support of steel coils. The result, for many, is a “best of both worlds” sleeping experience.
If you’re interested in purchasing a hybrid in a box, keep in mind these models tend to be more expensive than other mattress types. You’ll most likely pay between $1,200 and $2,000 for a hybrid model in a queen size. In most cases, the hybrid will be compressed for shipping and delivered to your doorstep. Those who would rather not set up the new mattress on their own should browse brands that offer free White Glove delivery, during which the couriers will assemble the mattress in a room of your choice and – in some cases – remove your old mattress at no extra cost.
What are the cons of a hybrid mattress?
Hybrids combine the thick, pressure-relieving comfort layers of foam and latex mattresses with the coil systems of innersprings, so many of the cons associated with hybrids are shared by these other mattress types. For example, memory foam hybrids – like all-foam mattresses – may absorb body heat to a bothersome degree and sink too much along the edges. Latex hybrids, on the other hand, may not contour closely enough to alleviate comfort for people with pain or pressure points in certain areas.
Another potential disadvantage of hybrid models is pricing. The average hybrid costs between $1,200 and $2,000 in a queen size. This makes them more expensive than the average all-foam or standard innerspring mattress, and on par with all-latex models.
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.
Logan has extensive experience testing sleep products and producing sleep content. She is also a Certified Sleep Science Coach.
Sleep Foundation
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Logan Foley
Certified Sleep Coach
Logan has extensive experience testing sleep products and producing sleep content. She is also a Certified Sleep Science Coach.
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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