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“For those dealing with back pain, getting quality sleep is crucial,” says Dr. Dustin Cotliar, M.D., MPH. “A well-chosen mattress can help reduce nighttime discomfort, allowing the body to heal and recover.”
But how can a mattress reduce pain? It comes down to two things: support and pressure relief, both of which are dependent on the weight and position of the sleeper. We’ve personally tested nearly 2,000 mattresses in our Seattle-based Test Lab, and in our guide below, reveal our picks for the best mattresses for back pain and offer tips for how to find your perfect mattress.
- With thousands of 5-star reviews, a lifetime warranty, and plenty of lumbar support, the WinkBed takes our Test Lab’s top spot for back pain.
- When it comes to back pain, don’t assume softer is better. Also consider your comfort preferences, sleeping position, and body weight. Read more in our buyer’s guide.
- Want to see these mattresses in action? Our summary video reviews cover what you need to know when shopping for a mattress for back pain.
Our Top Picks
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Best Overall Mattress – WinkBed
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Best Value Mattress – DreamCloud Mattress
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Best Mattress for Lumbar Support – Saatva Classic
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Best Mattress for Zoned Support – Bear Elite Hybrid
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Best Firm Mattress – Plank Firm Luxe
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Best Mattress for Couples – Leesa Sapira Hybrid
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Swipe for more
Best Overall Mattress
WinkBed
8.9 /10
Test Lab Score
Get $300 off all mattresses at Winkbeds
Get $300 off all mattresses at Winkbeds
The WinkBed snags our top spot for back pain because it’s firm enough to provide excellent support and spinal alignment while still balancing exceptional comfort for many different body types. It also holds up incredibly well and maintains its shape and foundational support over time.





Credit: Sleep Foundation Test Lab
Price
$1,499
Mattress Type
Innerspring
Firmness Options
Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7), Firm (8)
Trial Period
120 nights (30 night requirement)
Our Verdict
Who It’s Best For
The WinkBed is a true crowd pleaser. With a firmness level to fit any body type and sleeping position, people struggling with back pain vouch for this bed’s ability to provide comfort, relief, and improved sleep quality.
Feel
The WinkBed embodies all the feelings of a hybrid: A responsive give and take when you sit and lay on it coupled with a plushness in the top layers to give you balanced support and comfort for your back, hips, and shoulders.
What It’s Made Of
Zoned pocketed coils with thicker springs around the edge of the bed to protect the perimeter from sinkage. Most models feature an adaptive polyfoam surface layer, followed by a layer of denser foam to support your body weight. The Plus models feature zoned latex, ensuring heavier bodies won’t sink in too deeply.
What We Don’t Like
Some sleepers with back pain have thought the bed was too firm for their body weight. It’s also a very thick mattress, which means it’s heavier and can be difficult both to move and to find sheets that won’t pop off during the night.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
We performed a meta-analysis on 8573 validated customer reviews of the Winkbed. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:- Pain Relief and Support: A significant number of users report alleviation of back, hip, and shoulder pain, attributing this to the mattress’s supportive design. Individuals with chronic back issues have noted substantial improvements in sleep quality.
- Comfort Across Sleep Positions: Reviewers from various sleep positions—side, back, and stomach—find the mattress comfortable. The availability of different firmness levels allows users to select options that best suit their sleeping style.
- Temperature Regulation: Many customers appreciate the mattress’s ability to stay cool, enhancing overall comfort throughout the night.
- Edge Support: Users frequently mention the robust edge support, which provides a stable and usable sleeping surface across the entire mattress.
- Firmness Options: Customers appreciate the variety of firmness options available, finding the right balance for their personal preferences.
- Durability and Craftsmanship: The mattress is often praised for its high-quality construction and materials, with users expressing confidence in its longevity. The lifetime warranty further reinforces trust in the product’s durability.
- Customer Service and Trial Experience: Customers value the 120-night risk-free trial and responsive customer service, noting that these factors contribute to a positive purchasing experience.
Full Details
If you carry extra weight around the midsection, a mattress with zoned layers can be a solid investment. The WinkBed is a luxury hybrid available in four firmness levels to give you plenty of options for finding that sweet spot between comfort and support.
How It Performed
Testers on our team weighing less than 130 pounds found the medium soft (4) WinkBed most comfortable, particularly the side sleepers. The medium firm (6) design earned high marks from our testers weighing 130 to 230 pounds across all three position groups. Our back and stomach sleepers weighing 130 pounds or more also found the firm (7) design comfortable, and those over 230 pounds were impressed by the robust support of the WinkBed Plus (8).
Thanks to the zoned coils, the WinkBed scored high marks during our tests for edge support and ease of movement. Most of us could scoot across the surface of the mattress without feeling stuck — a common problem when support is lacking — and the perimeter felt stable as we mimicked movements associated with getting in and out of bed, tying our shoes, and changing positions near the edges.
Construction Breakdown
The medium soft, medium firm, and firm WinkBeds feature adaptive polyfoam quilted into the surface, followed by a layer of denser foam to cushion and reinforce your body. WinkBed Plus models swap out the second foam layer for zoned latex, which is very bouncy and shouldn’t buckle too much beneath your body — even if you weigh more than 230 pounds.
All WinkBeds feature zoned pocketed coils in their support cores. Thicker coils line the perimeter to protect the edges from deep sinkage, and also rest beneath your chest and hips to push back against your extra weight in these areas. A cover made of eucalyptus-derived Tencel fabric encases the entire mattress.
Trial, Shipping & Warranty
Your WinkBed purchase comes with a 120-night trial. As part of WinkBeds’ return policy, you may exchange your initial mattress for a softer or firmer model if you aren’t satisfied with how it feels. The replacement mattress comes with its own 60-night trial. All WinkBed mattresses are additionally backed by lifetime warranties, and shipping is free for shoppers in the contiguous U.S.
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
Helix Midnight Luxe
9.7 /10
Test Lab Score
27% off sitewide + 2 free Dream Pillows with a mattress purchase. Code: SF27
27% off sitewide + 2 free Dream Pillows with a mattress purchase. Code: SF27
An ideal mattress for side sleepers with back pain, the Helix Midnight Luxe has zoned support to cushion the hips and maintain proper spinal alignment. Its top layers conform to your body to offer pressure relief, which makes it an especially good choice for mid-weight sleepers.





Credit: Sleep Foundation Test Lab
Price
$1,899
Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Firm (6)
Trial Period
100 nights (30-night requirement)
Our Verdict
Who It’s Best For
The Helix Midnight Luxe works best for side and back sleepers who weigh under 230 pounds. It’s also a great choice for hot sleepers, as its coil core doesn’t trap heat the way all-foam beds can. Couples also praise this bed for its ability to isolate motion.
Feel
Zoned support makes this hybrid feel more supportive than others in key areas of your body, and a plush pillow-top will make you feel like you’re being cradled instead of sinking in too deeply like on an all-foam mattress.
What It’s Made Of
The top layer is made up of three different types of foam which comes on top of a denser layer of polyfoam to create extra support for your body’s weight. The layer responsible for providing most of the support is made of pocketed coils on top of a layer of dense foam. Thicker coils around the perimeter of the mattress and below your torso and hips provide zoned support where you need it most.
What We Don’t Like
All mattresses with foam have traces of chemical odors when they’re unboxed, but the Helix Midnight Luxe is particularly strong-smelling upon opening. It does dissipate after a few days, but if you’re sensitive to smells, it should be a consideration.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
We performed a meta-analysis on 5876 validated customer reviews of the Helix Midnight Luxe. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:- Comfort and Support: Many reviewers express that the mattress provides exceptional comfort and support, especially noting its ability to alleviate back, hip, and shoulder pain.
- Sleep Quality Improvement: The mattress is frequently described as transformative for those who previously struggled with sleep disturbances.
- Temperature Regulation: Positive remarks are made about the cooling properties of the mattress. Users find the cooling aspect effective, helping to maintain a comfortable sleeping temperature throughout the night.
- Customer Service: Experiences with customer service are predominantly positive, with buyers appreciating the responsive and helpful nature of the support team. Issues are resolved satisfactorily, contributing to a positive overall customer experience.
- Durability Concerns: A few reviewers express concerns about the mattress showing signs of wear or sagging prematurely. These concerns are not widespread but are significant enough to be noted by potential buyers.
- Mixed Reviews on Firmness: While many find the mattress perfectly balanced, there are mixed reviews regarding its firmness. Some users find it softer than expected given its firmness level. While the ‘medium firm’ rating is appropriate by our measurements, the bed does have a ‘cushy’ foam feel that makes for a fairly soft surface feel.
Full Details
Many mattresses are suitable for side sleepers, but the Helix Midnight Luxe was specifically designed to accommodate this sleep position. While the target audience weighs 130 to 230 pounds, our testing team found the mattress is comfortable for most sleepers across different weight groups.
How It Performed
Our hands-on tests of the Midnight Luxe revealed the mattress is ideal for side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds and back sleepers under 130 pounds. That said, the mattress earned favorable ratings from most of our team. The balanced medium firm (6) feel ensures ample cushioning for side sleepers, as well as sturdy support for back and stomach sleepers — though people who use the latter two positions and weigh more than 230 pounds may find the Midnight Luxe too soft.
During our temperature control tests, we found that the Midnight Luxe sleeps fairly cool and doesn’t retain much heat despite the deep foam layers. The Tencel cover gets much of the credit, as this material is known for breathability and moisture-wicking properties. People who are exceptionally warm sleepers should consider the GlacioTex cover upgrade — this fabric is engineered to dissipate heat on contact and feel cool at all times. Other testing areas where the Midnight Luxe performed well include edge support, pressure relief, and motion isolation.
Construction Breakdown
The Midnight Luxe’s Euro-top surface is cushioned with three foam layers, beginning with two layers of memory foam. You’ll notice a light bounce when you get into bed — this comes from the coils — but as your body settles, the foam molds to your figure for a cloud-like cradling effect. Transitional polyfoam provides additional cushioning, but this layer is denser to create some pushback against your weight.
The support core contains pocketed coils over dense base foam. Thicker springs rest below your torso and hips to deliver extra reinforcement for heavier areas of your body. The perimeter coils are also lower-gauge to prevent deep sinkage when you lie or sit along the edges. Standard Midnight Luxe models include a moisture-wicking Tencel cover. For an added charge, you can upgrade to a cover made of GlacioTex phase change material. You can also add the “ErgoAlign” layer for an extra fee, which consists of dense multi-zoned foam that rests on the surface. This feature is especially helpful for people with severe back pain.
Trial, Shipping & Warranty
The Midnight Luxe is reasonably priced for a luxury hybrid and standard shipping is free throughout the contiguous U.S. You’ll also receive two complimentary pillows with your order. Helix’s sleep trial runs for 100 nights. If you decide to keep the mattress after the trial ends, Helix further backs your purchase with a 15-year warranty.
Best Value Mattress
DreamCloud Mattress
8.5 /10
Test Lab Score
Up to 50% off mattresses & up to 66% off bundles
Up to 50% off mattresses & up to 66% off bundles
You get more than what you pay for with the DreamCloud Mattress. It’s a luxury medium firm hybrid build that provides excellent, even support in all the right places to keep your neck, hips, and shoulders aligned. Sleepers with back pain often report improvement in sleep quality due to its pressure-relieving qualities and overall comfort.





Credit: Sleep Foundation Test Lab
Price
$665
Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Firm (6)
Trial Period
365 nights (30-night requirement)
Our Verdict
Who It’s Best For
The DreamCloud is a good option for people struggling with back pain across sleeping positions and body types. Because its great at motion isolation, it’s also a strong choice for couples.
Feel
This is a medium firm bed that feels very plush to the touch due to its cashmere cover and foam top layers whiel also being supportive enough to keep you from sinking in too deeply as your body settles in for sleep.
What It’s Made Of
Underneath its cashmere cover, the DreamCloud features a polyfoam surface layer, followed by memory foam and polyfoam layers. The supportive core of this mattress is made of pocketed coils, which give it that traditional bouncy mattress feel without the excessive movement of traditional coils.
What We Don’t Like
There have been reports from cusomters of indentations and sagging with this mattress after a few years, which isn’t great news for people with back pain. It’s also not the easiest bed to move around on, so if you toss and turn, the DreamCloud might not be your perfect match.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
We performed a meta-analysis on 8729 validated customer reviews of the DreamCloud Mattress. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:- Comfort and Firmness: Many users describe the mattress as having a medium-firm feel that balances support and plushness, catering to various sleep positions.
- Motion Isolation: Couples appreciate the mattress’s ability to minimize motion transfer, allowing for undisturbed sleep even when sharing the bed with a partner. This quality is essential for those sensitive to movement during sleep.
- Pain Relief: Numerous customers report significant relief from back and joint pain, attributing this to the mattress’s supportive structure and pressure-relieving memory foam layers. This is consistent with expert recommendations for mattresses that promote spinal alignment.
- Temperature Regulation: The mattress’s cooling technology is frequently praised, with users noting a comfortable sleep temperature throughout the night. This feature is particularly beneficial for hot sleepers seeking a cooler sleep environment.
- Edge Support: Users mention strong edge support, providing confidence when sitting or sleeping near the mattress’s perimeter. This feature maximizes the usable sleep surface and enhances overall stability.
- Durability and Quality: Customers commend the high-quality materials and construction, expressing satisfaction with the mattress’s durability and longevity. The lifetime warranty further reinforces confidence in the product’s endurance.
- Customer Service and Trial Period: The 365-night trial period and responsive customer service are highlighted as significant advantages, providing peace of mind and flexibility during the purchasing process.
Full Details
The DreamCloud Mattress is a luxury hybrid with adaptive comfort layers with a strong support system. A medium firm (6) feel ensures plenty of cushioning for your shoulders, lower back, and hips, but we also found the bed’s thick pocketed coils maintain an even surface and reduce sinkage around the midsection — a common source of aches and pains. Approachable pricing and a generous sleep trial sweeten the deal even further if you’re shopping on a budget.
How It Performed
While the DreamCloud’s strongest ratings came from our side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds, the mattress was well received by most of our testers across different body types and sleep positions. Ample cushioning prevented our side sleepers from feeling sharp pressure points in their shoulders and hips, which often occur for people who use this position. Back sleepers on our team didn’t sink too much despite the thick foam layers.
Temperature control was another high point for the DreamCloud during our tests. The above-average cooling comes from both the moisture-wicking cashmere blend cover and steady air circulation through the coil system. Thanks to the thick foam layers, the mattress also performed better than many competing hybrids in testing categories like motion isolation and pressure relief.
Construction Breakdown
The DreamCloud begins with polyfoam quilted into the cover, followed by memory foam and polyfoam comfort layers. These materials make the mattress invitingly plush when you get into bed, but each layer is progressively denser and you shouldn’t sink too deeply as your body settles. The support core contains pocketed coils over a high-density foam base. A cover made from a breathable cashmere blend encases the mattress.
Trial, Shipping & Warranty
Shipping is free if you reside in the contiguous U.S. Each order comes with a sleep trial that spans an entire year, giving you plenty of time to test the mattress and decide whether it’s right for you. Should you decide to keep the bed, you’ll also receive a lifetime warranty against structural defects.
Best Mattress for Lumbar Support
Saatva Classic
9.4 /10
Test Lab Score
Up to $500 off mattress purchases
Up to $500 off mattress purchases
With the supportive firmness of a traditional innerspring and a layer of memory foam specially designed to support your lumbar spine, the Saatva Classic is a great choice for folks struggling with pain in their lower back. With different height and firmness options, it’s a solid pick for different body types and sleeping positions.





Credit: Sleep Foundation Test Lab
Price
$1,795
Mattress Type
Innerspring
Firmness Options
Soft (3), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Trial Period
365 Nights ($99 Return Fee)
Our Verdict
Who It’s Best For
With two height and three firmness options, the Saatva Classic has something for everyone—though it’s particularly great for back sleepers. With a core made of coils, it’s also a great option for people who sleep hot, since airflow circulates between the springs while you sleep.
Feel
On top of its springy, supportive coil system, the Saatva has a classic Euro-top cover, which means it has a bit of extra padding towards the top of the mattress to give it that “hotel-like” quality.
What It’s Made Of
Under the Euro-top layer of this mattress is a memory foam pad which is specifically designed to support the lumbar region of your back. The support layer of this mattress features hourglass coils made of recycled steel. You can either choose 11.5-inch mattress with 4-inch support coils, or a 14.5-inch model with 7-inch coils. If you’re struggling with back pain, we recommend choosing the thicker option for more support.
What We Don’t Like
This bed can be too firm for some sleepers, especially those that sleep on their sides. It’s also not our top choice for couples, as you may feel your partner move throughout the night.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
We performed a meta-analysis on 3308 validated customer reviews of the Saatva Classic. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:- Delivery Service: Positive feedback on the delivery process is common, with customers highlighting the professionalism and efficiency of the delivery teams. The white glove delivery service, including old mattress removal, is frequently praised.
- Comfort and Firmness: Customers appreciate the customizable firmness options, with Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm levels catering to diverse preferences.
- Durability: Long-term users report that the mattress maintains its comfort and support over the years, indicating good durability and quality construction.
- Material Quality: Customers appreciate the safe and high-quality materials used in the mattress, such as the absence of harmful chemicals and the use of organic cotton.
- Temperature Regulation: Some reviewers specifically mention sleeping cooler on the Saatva Classic, highlighting its temperature regulation features that contribute to a more comfortable sleep.
- Adjustability and Customization: The ability to customize the mattress for personal needs, like the split king option with different firmness levels, is a significant plus for many customers.
Full Details
Saatva’s mattress line has expanded over the past decade, but the luxurious Saatva Classic is still a fan favorite. One of the first mainstream innersprings to incorporate a coil-on-coil design, the Classic is available in three firmness levels and two profiles to accommodate a wide swath of sleepers.
How It Performed
The soft (3) design provides deep contouring, and was a hit among our side sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds. At the other end of the spectrum, the firm (8) model cushions very little and feels exceptionally supportive. Our back and stomach sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds preferred this model. If you’re looking for a balance of conforming and stability, you should consider the medium firm (6) design — this one earned favorable ratings from our testers across different weight and position groups.
All three Saatva Classics scored high ratings for edge support and ease of movement. The dual-coil construction creates a nice bounce on the surface, so you shouldn’t sink or feel stuck when getting in and out of bed. Reinforced perimeter coils also push back against your weight when you’re sitting or sleeping along the edges. Both coil layers circulate air, so the mattress also nabbed solid ratings for temperature control.
Construction Breakdown
The Saatva Classic’s Euro-top cover is cushioned with foam and plush fibers. A memory foam pad located beneath the lower back is intended to support your lumbar region and minimize pain, while transitional minicoils offer extra reinforcement without creating too much motion transfer.
The support core contains sturdy hourglass coils made of recycled steel. You can opt for an 11.5-inch mattress with 4-inch support coils, or a 14.5-inch model with 7-inch coils. We recommend the latter if you need extra support to sleep comfortably. A cover made of breathable organic cotton helps the surface stay cool.
Trial, Shipping & Warranty
The Classic’s sticker price is reasonable compared to other high-end innersprings and hybrids. Saatva is one of the only online mattress brands to offer free White Glove delivery to all customers in the contiguous U.S. This service includes full setup in a room of your choice and removal of your old mattress and box spring upon request. All purchases are backed by year-long sleep trials and lifetime warranties.
Best Mattress for Zoned Support
Bear Elite Hybrid
8.5 /10
Test Lab Score
35% off + free pillows with code: SF35
35% off + free pillows with code: SF35
The Bear Elite is a great option for sleepers with back pain and for couples. The adaptive foam layers reduce pressure points and with three firmness levels, most side and back sleepers will be able to find a model that relieves pressure.



Credit: Sleep Foundation Test Lab
Price
$1,499
Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night break-in period)
Our Verdict
Who It’s Best For
We recommend this mattress especially for couples because it isolates movement very well. When your partner moves throughout the night, this bed does a great job of making sure you don’t feel it.
Feel
This bed is high-profile, meaning it’s taller than other similar mattresses. It has a a slight bounce with a soft and plush top layer that is super comfortable to lay on.
What It’s Made Of
The Bear Elite starts with two layers of foam at the top of the mattress, one polyfoam and one memory foam that is infused with copper to keep it cool. These layers sit on top of coils that are thicker around the edges so you can sit and sleep around the edges of the bed without sinking in too much.
What We Don’t Like
This is not the best option for stomach sleepers. It won’t provide adequate support, especially for those with back pain.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
We performed a meta-analysis on 3703 validated customer reviews of the Bear Elite Hybrid. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:- Comfort and Support: Many reviewers highlight the mattress’s balance of comfort and support, often mentioning relief from back pain and improved sleep quality.
- Firmness Options: Customers appreciate the various firmness options, with some opting for firmer versions after experiencing discomfort with medium firmness.
- Temperature Regulation: Several reviews note the mattress’s ability to stay cool, which enhances sleep quality, especially in hot weather.
- Size and Upgrade Options: Customers are pleased with the availability of different sizes and the option to upgrade, which provides flexibility for different needs and preferences.
- Quality of Additional Products: Positive remarks on the quality of accompanying products like pillows and sheets, which are often included as free additions.
- Motion Isolation: Many reviewers highlight the mattress’s excellent motion isolation, making it ideal for shared sleeping arrangements.
Full Details
Most of our testers found the Bear Elite Hybrid comfortable thanks to adaptive foam layers that reduce pressure, a supportive coil system, and cooling components that cut down on heat buildup. The mattress is also available in three firmness levels — and if you opt for a split king size, Bear lets you choose a different firmness for each side of the bed.
How It Performed
The medium (5) Elite Hybrid design was most popular among our side and back sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds. This model contours closely to the body for optimal weight distribution, even alignment, and pressure relief along the spine. If you’re seeking a slightly more supportive build, you should consider the medium firm (6) — this one earned rave reviews from our side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds and sleepers up to 230 pounds. The firm (8) feel provides light cushioning and robust support, making it most comfortable for testers over 230 pounds.
The Elite Hybrid’s zoned transitional layer maintained an even surface for our bodies and prevented uncomfortable sinkage below the chest, stomach, and hips. Our thermal sensors didn’t detect much heat buildup during temperature control tests, and we noticed a good deal of pushback along the perimeter when testing the mattress for edge support.
Construction Breakdown
All versions of the Elite Hybrid begin with a memory foam comfort layer, followed by transitional polyfoam. The memory foam is infused with copper to help keep the surface nice and cool. The coils also generate steady circulation throughout the interior, and a cover made of Celliant-blend fabric prevents the mattress from retaining too much heat. The coils are zoned to be thicker and sturdier along the edges, allowing you to sleep along the perimeter and get in and out of bed without sinking.
Trial, Shipping & Warranty
All customers in the contiguous U.S. receive free ground shipping. The Elite Hybrid is backed by a 120-night sleep trial and a lifetime warranty against structural defects. You may purchase additional protection that covers stains and other types of physical damage for up to 10 years.
Best Firm Mattress
Plank Firm Luxe
7.8 /10
Test Lab Score
25% off sitewide. Code: PRESDAY25
25% off sitewide. Code: PRESDAY25
The Plank Firm Luxe is a flippable mattress that features two firm sides. This firm bed can offer relief for people looking for extra support.



Credit: Sleep Foundation Test Lab
Price
$1,149
Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Firm (7), Extra Firm (9)
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement)
Our Verdict
Who It’s Best For
This mattress is best suited to back and some stomach sleepers who weigh more than 230 pounds. If you’ve felt like you have gotten back pain due to a bed that was too soft, this may be a good option for you.
Feel
When lying on this bed, you feel like you’re sleeping on top of it rather than sinking into it. The foam layers offer very little hug.
Wha It’s Made Of
The Plank has two sides: a firm and an extra firm side. The firm side has layers of TitanFlex foam and high-density polyfoam. Plank’s proprietary TitanFlex foam is similar to latex and has a bouncy feel. The extra firm side doesn’t feature the TitanFlex foam and has a thinner layer of polyfoam. The shared support core is a layer of pocketed coils.
What We Don’t Like
This mattress is very firm. It’s a great option for folks who want and need that extra support, but we do not recommend it for sleepers that have severe pressure points, especially side sleepers.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
We performed a meta-analysis on 1748 validated customer reviews of the Plank Firm Luxe. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:- Comfort and firmness: Many reviewers discuss the comfort level of the mattress, often highlighting its firm feel. While all of those bought the mattress for its firmness, a few people still found the bed too firm.
- Cooling features: Several reviewers mention the cooling features of the mattress, specifically the Glaciotex Cooling Cover, which is appreciated for providing a cooler sleep experience.
- Pain relief: A recurring theme is the relief from back and joint pain, with many users noting improvements in their sleep quality and reduction in pain. Many users report improved spinal alignment, especially those who prefer firmer mattresses.
- Dual firmness options: The mattress’s ability to be flipped for different firmness levels (firm and extra firm) is frequently mentioned and appreciated by those who have different firmness preferences.
- Edge support: A lot of reviewers mention the strong edge support of the Plank Firm Luxe.
- Off-gassing: A few reviewers note the presence of off-gassing when the mattress is new, but it typically dissipates after a few days.
- Customer service: Experiences with customer service are generally positive, with reviewers appreciating the responsive and helpful support team. The 120-night trial period and responsive customer service are frequently noted as key advantages.
Full Details
Many mattress brands advertise their beds as “soft” or “plush,” but the fact is some people benefit from less cushioning and a firmer feel. These sleepers are great candidates for the reversible Plank Firm Luxe, which features a firm (7) feel on one side and an extra firm (9) feel on the other. The latter is one of the firmest surfaces we’ve tested in our lab, and should be suitable for anyone who has found other foam hybrids too soft.
How It Performed
The Plank Firm Luxe earned its most favorable ratings from back and stomach sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds. The majority of our testers preferred the firm side, but a few of us weighing more than 230 pounds appreciated the extra firm surface’s light contouring and robust support.
As is often the case with firmer mattresses, the Plank Firm Luxe performed exceptionally well during our edge support and ease of movement tests. The mattress also sleeps quite cool thanks to consistent airflow through the coil layer. You can opt for a phase change panel on each side if you tend to overheat in bed or sweat in your sleep.
Construction Breakdown
The Plank Firm Luxe’s firm side features a layer of quilting material, followed by latex-like TitanFlex foam and high-density polyfoam. These materials provide a small measure of cushioning without sacrificing firmness or support. The extra firm side does not contain any TitanFlex and the polyfoam layer is thinner, so this surface conforms very little. A shared support core of pocketed coils rests between the comfort systems.
In addition to the standard model, you can order phase change panels to be sewn into both sleep surfaces. Phase change material is engineered to dissipate body heat on contact and maintain a cool, comfortable surface at all times.
Trial, Shipping & Warranty
The Plank Firm Luxe is reasonably priced compared to other hybrid models and ground shipping is free within the contiguous U.S. You’ll receive a 120-night sleep trial with your purchase, and a 10-year warranty against structural defects if you decide to keep the mattress.
Best Mattress for Spinal Alignment
Nolah Evolution 15
9.2 /10
Test Lab Score
35% off sitewide + $150 off BedJet & 2 free pillows with mattress purchase
35% off sitewide + $150 off BedJet & 2 free pillows with mattress purchase
The Evolution 15 is Nolah’s top-of-the-line mattress. It’s a hybrid mattress that focuses on zoned support to keep your spine aligned.


Credit: Sleep Foundation Test Lab
Price
$1,624
Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement), $99 return pickup fee
Our Verdict
Who It’s Best For
Side sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds will generally really like this bed. It will keep side sleepers’ shoulders, hips, and spines aligned.
Feel
The Nolah Evolution feels very plush when sinking in to it due to all the foam layers. However, it still feels relatively easy to move around on the surface of the mattress.
What It’s Made Of
The Nolah Evolution 15 contains four foam layers that get progressively denser from top to bottom. Underneath the foam is a layer of pocketed coils that are more targeted towards the perimeter of the mattress and below the chest and hips.
What We Don’t Like
This is a super thick mattress, so finding deep pocket sheets to fit may be a problem. Nolah also charges a $99 return fee, so if you’re not sure this mattress is the choice for you, it may be best to skip it.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
We performed a meta-analysis on 897 validated customer reviews of the Nolah Evolution 15. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:- Motion Isolation: Couples note the excellent motion isolation, which minimizes disruptions from partner movements during the night.
- Edge Support: The edge support of the mattress is frequently highlighted, with many finding it adequate for sitting or sleeping near the edge without feeling like they will roll off.
- Softness: Many reviewers discuss the softness of the mattress. Some find it too soft, causing discomfort, especially for heavier individuals, while others appreciate the plushness.
- Pressure Relief and Support: Reviewers frequently highlight relief from back and shoulder pain, attributing this to the supportive foam layers and zoned coil system.
- Heat Retention: A few reviewers note that the mattress retains heat, making it uncomfortable for some, particularly in warmer climates or for those who sleep hot.
- Durability and Quality: Users often comment on the high quality and durability of the mattress, noting that it maintains its shape and comfort over time.
Full Details
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid combines adaptive foam and supportive coils for an overall balanced feel. With three firmness options to choose from, you can pick the model that best suits your sleep position and personal sleep preferences.
How It Performed
The mattress is available in medium soft (4), medium firm (6), and firm (8) designs. Our testers found the foam comfort layers offered very good pressure relief regardless of the firmness level. The medium soft option was an excellent fit for side sleepers up to 230 pounds and back sleepers up to 130 pounds, since these folks need deep cushioning for the shoulders, hips, and spine. Back and side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds preferred the medium firm option, while the firm model felt most comfortable to stomach sleepers of at least 130 pounds and back sleepers over 230 pounds.
The coils give the firmer Signature Hybrids a responsive feel. You should consider one of these models if you’re looking for a mattress that won’t sink too much when you move across the surface. The softer models performed well during our motion isolation tests. This can benefit anyone who shares their bed with a restless sleeper.
Construction Breakdown
All three firmness options begin with a quilted surface for a plush feel, followed by two polyfoam layers to enhance cushioning. Layers vary in thickness and firmness depending on the model you choose. The support core is composed of pocketed coils that generate sturdy support, with strong coils around the perimeter to boost edge support. Airflow through the coils helps keep the bed cool, but for an additional fee you can also add a pillow-top made with a specialized GlacioTex cooling fiber.
Trial, Shipping & Warranty
Brooklyn Bedding offers a 120-night sleep trial and 10-year warranty. Shipping is free to addresses in the contiguous U.S.
Best Mattress for Pressure Relief
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
8.4 /10
Test Lab Score
25% off sitewide. Code: PRESDAY25
25% off sitewide. Code: PRESDAY25
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is a hybrid mattress that is a great combination of cushioning and support. This makes for a mattress that relieves pressure, especially along the back and hips.





Credit: Sleep Foundation Test Lab
Price
$932
Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement)
Our Verdict
Who It’s Best For
This mattress is best for side and back sleepers who struggle with back pain. With three firmness levels, most sleepers should be able to find a model that works for them.
Feel
The Signature Hybrid has a responsive feel, meaning it is a bit more bouncy than other memory foam models. It will feel more like you’re sleeping on top of the mattress rather than sinking in to it.
What It’s Made Of
This mattress has a plush quilted cover which sits on top of two polyfoam layers that offer exceptional pressure relief. The pocketed coils make up the support layer to provide adequate support for your body weight.
What We Don’t Like
This isn’t the easiest bed to move around on, so this might not be the bed for you if you toss and turn throughout the night.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
We performed a meta-analysis on 10000 validated customer reviews of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:- Comfort and support: Many reviewers mention that the mattress is very comfortable and provides good support for various sleeping positions.
- Improvement in sleep quality: Several users report a significant improvement in sleep quality, including better rest and reduced pain.
- Firmness options: People appreciate the availability of different firmness levels, and some discuss their experiences with medium, firm, or pillow-top options.
- RV suitability: A number of reviews specifically mention using the mattress in RVs, noting it as a substantial upgrade from typical RV mattresses.
- Initial odor/smell: Some reviewers note a mild odor upon unpacking, but it typically dissipates quickly.
- Edge support: The mattress is often noted for having good edge support, which is particularly valued by those who sit on the edge of the bed.
- Price and value: Many reviewers feel the mattress is well-priced for the quality and comfort it provides.
- Durability concerns: A few reviewers express concerns about how the mattress will hold up over time, although these comments are not widespread.
Full Details
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid combines adaptive foam and supportive coils for an overall balanced feel. With three firmness options to choose from, you can pick the model that best suits your sleep position and personal sleep preferences.
How It Performed
The mattress is available in medium soft (4), medium firm (6), and firm (8) designs. Our testers found the foam comfort layers offered very good pressure relief regardless of the firmness level. The medium soft option was an excellent fit for side sleepers up to 230 pounds and back sleepers up to 130 pounds, since these folks need deep cushioning for the shoulders, hips, and spine. Back and side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds preferred the medium firm option, while the firm model felt most comfortable to stomach sleepers of at least 130 pounds and back sleepers over 230 pounds.
The coils give the firmer Signature Hybrids a responsive feel. You should consider one of these models if you’re looking for a mattress that won’t sink too much when you move across the surface. The softer models performed well during our motion isolation tests. This can benefit anyone who shares their bed with a restless sleeper.
Construction Breakdown
All three firmness options begin with a quilted surface for a plush feel, followed by two polyfoam layers to enhance cushioning. Layers vary in thickness and firmness depending on the model you choose. The support core is composed of pocketed coils that generate sturdy support, with strong coils around the perimeter to boost edge support. Airflow through the coils helps keep the bed cool, but for an additional fee you can also add a pillow-top made with a specialized GlacioTex cooling fiber.
Trial, Shipping & Warranty
Brooklyn Bedding offers a 120-night sleep trial and 10-year warranty. Shipping is free to addresses in the contiguous U.S.
Best Mattress for Couples
Leesa Sapira Hybrid
8.9 /10
Test Lab Score
20% off + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase
20% off + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase
Comfortable is subjective, but most people find the Leesa Sapira provides great pressure relief in the back and hip areas and is supportive enough to maintain spinal alignment. Since it’s a medium firm hybrid that’s designed to sleep cool, it has just enough foam to provide ample cushioning for a wide range of sleeper types.



Price
$1,599
Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Firm (6)
Trial Period
100 nights (30 night requirement)
Our Verdict
Who It’s Best For
Sleepers with back pain will find the design of this mattress helps alleviate pain they encounter at night. It’s a great choice for back and side sleepers under 230 pounds.
Feel
The Leesa has a bouncy feel which will make it easier to move around during the night. It’s super soft and plush and gives you the “hug” feeling of the memory foam without sinking in too much to feel stuck.
What It’s Made Of
The top layer of polyfoam in the Leesa is aerated to allow air to flow, resulting in a cooler mattress surface. Beneath that is a layer of memory foam that is designed to relieve pressure along the spine. The next layer is a layer of firmer polyfoam, followed by a layer of supportive pocketed coils. The bottom of the mattress is a thick layer of polyfoam for stability.
What We Don’t Like
This is not a great option for sleepers who weigh more than 230 pounds as they may need more support. It’s also not our top choice for couples as you may be able to feel your partner moving throughout the night.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
We performed a meta-analysis on 2257 validated customer reviews of the Leesa Sapira Hybrid. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:- Comfort and Support: Many reviewers mention the mattress’s blend of comfort and support, often highlighting its suitability for side and back sleepers, and its ability to alleviate or prevent pain (back, hip, or shoulder).
- Temperature Regulation: Customers note the breathable construction helps regulate temperature, ensuring a cooler sleep experience.
- Durability and Longevity: Positive comments on how the mattress maintains its shape and comfort over several years without sagging or indentations.
- Motion Isolation: The mattress performs well in minimizing motion transfer, making it an excellent choice for couples.
- Odor and Off-gassing: Some mention initial off-gassing smells upon unpacking, but most report that the odor dissipates quickly.
- Edge Support: Good reviews on the edge support of the mattress, which is important for those who sit on the edge of the bed or sleep near the edge.
- Value for Money: Many users feel that the mattress provides good value for the price, especially given its comfort and durability features.
Full Details
Hybrids are often popular among sleepers who have persistent back pain. This is mainly due to their balanced design, contouring comfort layers, and supportive coils. The Leesa Sapira Hybrid elaborates on this design with a mixed foam comfort system and a medium firm (6) feel to ensure the mattress contours deeply and relieves pressure without sinking too deeply beneath your weight.
How It Performed
The Sapira Hybrid’s foam comfort system and medium firm feel best suited side sleepers on our team, specifically those who weigh at least 130 pounds. The foam layers deeply contoured to their shoulders and hips, areas where pressure tends to build for those who use this position. Our back and stomach sleepers weighing under 130 pounds also found the mattress comfortable.
The mattress had balanced performance across our testing categories, but particularly excelled in our tests for ease of movement and temperature neutrality. Mattresses with foam layers tend to trap heat, but the aerated polyfoam layer and breathable coil support core help keep you cool. We also recommend the Sapira Hybrid for couples, thanks to a bouncy feel that many will appreciate for sex. Most people should be able to move across the mattress surface with little restriction.
Construction Breakdown
The Sapira Hybrid begins with a layer of polyfoam engineered to be more responsive while cushioning along the spine. This layer is aerated with small holes to increase airflow near the surface. Underneath is a layer of memory foam that adapts to the body to relieve pressure points along the spine. A polyfoam transitional layer makes sure your weight is evenly distributed.
Pocketed coils make up the support core. These coils have a lower gauge, offering ample pushback to prevent midsection sagging. The coil system is reinforced along the perimeter, so you don’t sink when laying or sitting along the edges. The coils rest on a polyfoam base layer for stability, and a knit polyester cover encases the mattress.
Trial, Shipping & Warranty
Leesa ships for free to customers living in all 50 states. The company also offers a 100-night sleep trial, during which you can test the Sapira Hybrid and return it anytime after the 30-night break-in period. If you decide to keep the mattress, it is backed by a 10-year warranty.
Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers
Layla Hybrid
8.5 /10
Test Lab Score
Up to $200 off mattresses + 2 free pillows
Up to $200 off mattresses + 2 free pillows
The Layla Hybrid is a reversible mattress with a hybrid design. One side focuses on soft and plush cushion while the other focuses on support.





Credit: Sleep Foundation Test Lab
Price
$1,499
Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Reversible: Medium Soft (4), Firm (7)
Trial Period
120 nights
Our Verdict
Who It’s Best For
This a great choice for nearly all side and back sleepers. There’s two sides to choose from which will allow you to choose the right firmness for you.
Feel
The softer side of this mattress feels more like the mattress is “hugging” you. It has a plush top layer that allows you to sink in. The firm side doesn’t allow for as much sinkage, giving more support.
What It’s Made Of
The softer side of this mattress is topped with a thick layer of copper-infused memory foam. Copper has been shown to help keep foam cool throughout the night. This layer sits on top of a layer of polyfoam that provides support. The firmer side’s memory foam layer is thinner, allowing you to feel that firmer polyfoam underneath.
What We Don’t Like
This mattress may be too soft for stomach sleepers, especially those who weigh more than 230 pounds. We should also mention that for a flippable mattress, it is pretty heavy and difficult to move.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
We performed a meta-analysis on 1121 validated customer reviews of the Layla Hybrid. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:- Comfort and Support: Many reviewers mention the mattress provides excellent support and comfort, particularly noting improvements in back and shoulder pain.
- Dual Firmness: The dual-sided design, offering both soft and firm options, is frequently praised for its versatility.
- Motion Isolation: Reviewers mention excellent motion isolation, which minimizes disruptions from partner movements.
- Temperature Regulation: Some reviewers appreciate the mattress’s cooling properties, though a few mention it sleeps warm. Mant say the copper-infused foam layers effectively regulate temperature, keeping the sleep surface cool.
- Shipping and Delivery: Fast and efficient shipping is often noted, although a few had issues with delivery services.
- Weight and Maneuverability: The mattress is noted to be heavy, making it difficult to move or flip without assistance.
- Smell and Off-gassing: A few reviewers mention an initial off-gassing smell that dissipates over time.
- Edge Support: Mixed reviews on edge support, with some noting it could be improved.
Full Details
The Layla Hybrid is flippable with a different firmness level on each side. Our preferred surface varied by tester, but overall we found that this mattress excelled at pressure relief and motion isolation while also sleeping cool and providing adequate support for a wide variety of sleepers.
How It Performed
Our tests show the Layla Hybrid’s medium soft (4) side was best suited to sleepers who weigh less than 130 pounds while the firm (7) side was a better option for sleepers who weigh at least 130 pounds. The coils reinforced the edges and made it easy for our testers to move around on the firm side of the mattress. Although memory foam tends to trap heat, air flows through the coils to help the mattress sleep cool.
Construction Breakdown
The medium soft side has a 2.5-inch copper-infused memory foam comfort layer. The foam contours closely and alleviates pressure in sore spots along your spine, and the copper infusion is meant to keep the surface cool. This layer rests on 2 inches of zoned transitional polyfoam that provides varying amounts of support to different areas of the body. In contrast, the firm side has a thinner memory foam layer over 1.5 inches of zoned polyfoam — this makes the surface feel much more supportive. The mattress is encased in a breathable cover with vinyl handles on the sides for easier flippability. The shared support core consists of 6-inch pocketed coils.
Trial, Shipping & Warranty
The Layla Hybrid comes with a 120-night sleep trial and is backed by a 10-year warranty. Shipping is free to the contiguous U.S.
Presidents’ Day Mattress Sales Are Here!
Presidents’ Day is a great time to buy a new mattress, with many top brands offering major discounts for shoppers. Visit our full list of Presidents’ Day mattress sales to learn about the best deals.
The Best Deals of The Week
-
Save $199
—
Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam
$466 (List Price $665) -
Save $593
—
Helix Midnight Luxe
$1,780 (List Price $2,373) -
Save $2,518
—
Nectar Adjustable Bundle
$1,398 (List Price $3,916) -
Save $300
—
WinkBed
$1,499 (List Price $1,799) -
Save $999
—
DreamCloud Mattress
$665 (List Price $1,664)
Best Overall Mattress
WinkBed
8.9 /10
Test Lab Score
Get $300 off all mattresses at Winkbeds
Shop at WinkBedsA popular hybrid that’s plush, supportive, and offers a firmness option for every body type.
See More Details
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
Helix Midnight Luxe
9.7 /10
Test Lab Score
27% off sitewide + 2 free Dream Pillows with a mattress purchase. Code: SF27
Shop at HelixA hybrid mattress for back pain created with side sleepers in mind.
See More Details
Best Value Mattress
DreamCloud Mattress
8.5 /10
Test Lab Score
Up to 50% off mattresses & up to 66% off bundles
Shop at DreamCloudA supportive and pressure-relieving luxury hybrid at an unbeatable price.
See More Details
Best Mattress for Lumbar Support
Saatva Classic
9.4 /10
Test Lab Score
Up to $500 off mattress purchases
Shop at SaatvaA luxury innerspring design with a modernized and customizable approach.
See More Details
Best Mattress for Zoned Support
Bear Elite Hybrid
8.5 /10
Test Lab Score
35% off + free pillows with code: SF35
Shop at BearA high-end mattress with zoned support and a cooling design.
See More Details
Best Firm Mattress
Plank Firm Luxe
7.8 /10
Test Lab Score
25% off sitewide. Code: PRESDAY25
Shop at PlankA firm mattress for those looking for extra support.
See More Details

Credit: Sleep Foundation Test Lab
Best Mattress for Spinal Alignment
Nolah Evolution 15
9.2 /10
Test Lab Score
35% off sitewide + $150 off BedJet & 2 free pillows with mattress purchase
Shop at NolahA hybrid mattress with back pain support where you need it most.
See More Details
Best Mattress for Pressure Relief
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
8.4 /10
Test Lab Score
25% off sitewide. Code: PRESDAY25
Shop at Brooklyn BeddingGreat pressure relief for an even better value.
See More Details
Best Mattress for Couples
Leesa Sapira Hybrid
8.9 /10
Test Lab Score
20% off + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase
Shop at LeesaA responsive foam hybrid with moderate contouring for back pain and pressure relief.
See More Details
Best for Combination Sleepers
Layla Hybrid
8.5 /10
Test Lab Score
Up to $200 off mattresses + 2 free pillows
Shop at LaylaA flippable mattress with double the support and cushioning.
See More Details
Compare the Best Mattresses for Back Pain
Select up to 3 products to compare
Rating
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Product |
Price |
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/10 |
$1,499 ![]() |
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/10 |
$1,899 ![]() |
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/10 |
$665 ![]() |
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/10 |
$1,795 ![]() |
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/10 |
$1,499 ![]() |
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/10 |
$1,149 ![]() |
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/10 |
$1,624 ![]() |
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/10 |
$1,586 ![]() |
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/10 |
$1,599 ![]() |
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/10 |
$1,499 ![]() |
Compare Mattresses
Go back to select different products
Price
$1,499
$1,899
$665
$1,795
$1,499
$1,149
$1,624
$1,586
$1,599
$1,499
Mattress Type
Innerspring
Hybrid
Hybrid
Innerspring
Hybrid
Hybrid
Hybrid
Hybrid
Hybrid
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7), Firm (8)
Medium Firm (6)
Medium Firm (6)
Soft (3), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Firm (7), Extra Firm (9)
Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7)
Medium Firm (6)
Reversible: Medium Soft (4), Firm (7)
Customer Rating
9.6/10
9.0/10
9.2/10
9.6/10
9.4/10
9.4/10
9.8/10
9.4/10
8.8/10
9.0/10
Side Sleepers (Under 130 lbs.)
8.0/10
8.5/10
7.0/10
7.0/10
7.5/10
4.5/10
8.0/10
8.0/10
8.0/10
7.5/10
Side Sleepers (130-230 lbs.)
9.5/10
10.0/10
8.0/10
9.0/10
9.0/10
6.5/10
9.5/10
9.5/10
9.5/10
9.0/10
Side Sleepers (Above 230 lbs.)
8.0/10
8.5/10
7.0/10
9.0/10
7.5/10
8.0/10
8.0/10
8.0/10
8.0/10
7.5/10
Back Sleepers (Under 130 lbs.)
7.5/10
8.0/10
8.0/10
7.0/10
7.0/10
4.5/10
7.5/10
7.5/10
7.5/10
7.0/10
Back Sleepers (130-230 lbs.)
9.0/10
9.5/10
7.0/10
9.0/10
8.5/10
6.5/10
9.0/10
9.0/10
9.0/10
8.5/10
Back Sleepers (Above 230 lbs.)
9.0/10
9.5/10
7.0/10
9.0/10
8.5/10
6.5/10
9.0/10
9.0/10
9.0/10
8.5/10
Stomach Sleepers (Under 130 lbs.)
6.0/10
6.5/10
7.5/10
6.5/10
5.5/10
5.0/10
6.0/10
6.0/10
6.0/10
5.5/10
Stomach Sleepers (130-230 lbs.)
7.5/10
8.0/10
6.0/10
8.5/10
7.0/10
7.0/10
7.5/10
7.5/10
7.5/10
7.0/10
Stomach Sleepers (Above 230 lbs.)
6.0/10
6.5/10
5.5/10
8.5/10
5.5/10
8.5/10
6.0/10
6.0/10
6.0/10
5.5/10
Motion Isolation
6.0/10
8.5/10
7.5/10
6.5/10
7.0/10
6.0/10
8.0/10
8.0/10
7.0/10
7.5/10
Edge Support
9.0/10
9.5/10
7.5/10
8.5/10
7.5/10
8.0/10
9.0/10
9.0/10
6.5/10
6.0/10
Temperature Control
8.5/10
8.0/10
7.0/10
10.0/10
7.0/10
8.0/10
7.5/10
7.5/10
8.0/10
7.0/10
Ease of Movement
7.0/10
7.5/10
7.0/10
8.5/10
6.5/10
8.0/10
7.0/10
7.0/10
7.0/10
6.5/10
Off-gassing
7.0/10
8.0/10
7.0/10
9.5/10
7.0/10
7.0/10
7.5/10
7.5/10
7.0/10
7.0/10
Pressure Relief
7.5/10
9.5/10
8.0/10
8.0/10
8.0/10
6.0/10
9.0/10
9.0/10
8.5/10
8.5/10
Product Review
Video: We Tested the Best Mattresses for Back Pain — Here Are Our Favorites
How We Test: Your Comfort Is Our Science
Our industry-leading product testing team cares deeply about improving your sleep. Having a holistic understanding of a mattress’s role as part of a sleep system is paramount to our testing process. Since a bed’s comfort and feel depend largely on body weight and sleeping position, our testing team represents a wide range of body types, sleep positions, and comfort preferences.
In our Seattle-based Test Lab, we use an objective, hands-on process to evaluate mattresses across performance categories. The following are the key guidelines that inform our performance ratings. Our ultimate goal is to ensure you have all the information you need to make the best purchase decision for you.
Construction analysis: Our ratings system is grounded in construction. Each mattress rating is derived at the intersection of quality, value, and versatility across a range of sleepers. We look at the bed’s price point, materials, firmness options, comfort and support systems, cooling technology, as well as brand reputation, and then we perform a detailed analysis that measures performance across six different categories to arrive at an overall score.
Quantitative product testing: During these hands-on lab tests, our team uses various tools and technology to evaluate a bed’s performance against motion isolation, pressure relief, temperature control, ease of movement, edge support, and potential for odor emissions. We use the outcomes from these tests to calculate a score for each category.
Field testing: Our field testers sleep on mattresses and other sleep products, like pillows, sheets, and mattress toppers, in their own bedrooms. After weeks of at-home testing, each field tester provides a detailed analysis of how the mattress performs, including what they like and dislike about the bed.
User feedback: Observations from mattress owners and users outside our team are invaluable to our research. We draw insight from surveys, sleep stories, and customer reviews to extract themes, fine-tune our ratings, and better understand how each product performs over time in a real-world setting.
How We Determine Our Overall Scores


To determine a mattress’s overall score, we assign weighted percentages to performance categories based on how important they are to the individual sleep experience. For instance, areas like pressure relief and temperature control tend to matter more to people than something like off-gassing, and because more people sleep on their side and back than on their stomach, we weigh those positions more heavily.
Performance Categories
Motion Isolation
This criteria alludes to the amount of motion a mattress absorbs when a sleeper moves on the surface. We use two testers lying side by side to evaluate motion isolation, who each feel for transfer while the other person moves on the mattress.
Temperature Control
“For those with back pain, sleeping hot can lead to restlessness, which can worsen pain,” Dr. Cotliar says. To determine how well a mattress regulates temperature, we use heat mapping technology and look closely at materials, as many mattresses claim to be designed with cooling components.
Pressure Control
A bed with strong pressure relief excels at preventing pressure from building up in areas like the shoulders and hips. Beds with even contouring and weight distribution are top performers when it comes to pressure relief.
Off Gassing
A mattress in a box may release unpleasant chemical odors for a short period after you’ve unboxed it. The initi