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Best Mattress for Couples
More than 100 million U.S. adults are married, while nearly 20 million unmarried people cohabit with a partner. Finding the right mattress to share with a partner is critical for enabling high-quality sleep. However, identifying a mattress that suits the comfort preferences and support needs of both sleepers can pose a number of challenges. The best mattresses for couples should also isolate motion to reduce sleep disturbances, produce little to no noise, and be conducive for sexual activity.
We’ve personally tested hundreds of mattresses over the years, and many of the metrics we evaluate these beds for are relevant to couples. Our testing team includes people with varying body types, sleep positions, and firmness preferences, which allows us to make mattress recommendations for a wide range of individuals. The mattresses listed below stood out during our tests, particularly in performance areas like motion isolation, noise, and responsiveness for sex.
Looking for more information about how to find the ideal mattress for you and your partner? Check out our guide to the best mattresses of 2023, which includes a full list of top contenders and a detailed breakdown of our selection process. If you need a supportive mattress to sleep comfortably, visit our list of the best firm mattresses to get started.
Spoiler Alert — Here’s Our Pick for Best Mattress for Couples
If you normally sleep with a partner, your mattress should regulate temperature well, isolate movement, feel secure around the perimeter, and provide enough responsiveness for sex. The WinkBed luxury hybrid is our top mattress for couples of 2023 because it checks all of these boxes. You and your partner can also choose from four different firmness levels in order to nail down the most comfortable design.
The Best Mattresses for Couples
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Best Overall
WinkBed
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Best Value
DreamCloud Mattress
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Most Comfortable
Helix Midnight
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Best Motion Isolation
Nectar Premier Copper
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Best for Side Sleepers
Layla Hybrid
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Best Cooling
Casper Snow
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Best for Sex
Emma Hybrid Comfort
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Best Luxury
Solaire
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Best for Combination Sleepers
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
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Best for Back Pain
Bear Elite Hybrid
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Jump to: Best Mattresses for Couples | Full Reviews | How We Test | How to Shop
Watch Video: We Tested the Best Mattresses for Couples — Here Are Our Favorites
Watch the video below to learn more about our lab’s top mattress picks for couples.
Below, you’ll find product profiles for all of our top selections. Each mattress has earned a unique accolade based on one of its major strengths. Scroll down further to find our buying guide, where we’ll outline all of the important concerns for couples in the market for a new mattress. This guide includes an overview of mattress types and their average price-points, key considerations for couples, and information about shipping options, sleep trials, and warranty coverage.
Our Recommendations
Best Mattress Overall
WinkBed





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Mattress Type:
Innerspring
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Price Range:
$1,149 – $2,049
Pros
- Dense foam layers and sturdy coils create a highly supportive hybrid design
- Four firmness options to accommodate different body types and sleep positions
- Steady airflow and a cooling cover ensure excellent temperature control
Cons
- Three firmer models can transfer more movement
- People with sharp pressure points find most models lack close contouring
Bottom Line — Why It Makes the Cut
“The WinkBed captures the quintessential balanced feel of a hybrid mattress, with plush foam layers and a sturdy coil base. Four of our field testers have slept on a WinkBed for at least a year, and they unanimously agree the bed offers superlative support while still giving you plenty of cushioning.”
– Tom Ryan, Head of Product Testing
The WinkBed is a versatile hybrid mattress that offers even body-contouring and strong overall support. Four firmness levels are available. During our hands-on tests, each member of our team found at least one firmness option that provided enough cushioning without sinking too much beneath their weight. A generous return and exchange policy further incentivizes couples who aren’t sure whether a softer or firmer mattress is best for them.
What It’s Made of
All WinkBed mattresses feature a Euro-top surface padded with adaptive polyfoam. This material conforms to the body without hugging too closely, making the mattress a good alternative for people who don’t like sleeping on memory foam. A transitional polyfoam layer adds extra cushioning while maintaining an even sleep surface. The support core contains pocketed coils with a zoned configuration to ensure a stable perimeter and extra reinforcement around the torso and hips. A cover made of breathable Tencel encases the entire mattress.
We found each firmness level distinct and well suited to certain types of sleepers. Those who prefer plush sleep surfaces should opt for the medium soft (4) feel, which provides deep contouring to alleviate pressure points along the spine – a common issue for side sleepers. The back and stomach sleepers on our team preferred the enhanced support of the medium firm (6) and firm (7) feels. People who weigh more than 230 pounds should consider the WinkBed Plus, a firm (8) model specifically designed for sleepers in this weight group. The Plus swaps out the adaptive polyfoam for a comfort layer of zoned latex that feels highly supportive and responsive.
How It Performed
The WinkBed earned excellent ratings during our temperature control tests. Air circulates freely throughout the coil system and the Tencel cover is both breathable and moisture-wicking, so the mattress should be comfortable for people who tend to sleep hot or sweat in bed. Edge support is another major strength of the WinkBed. Our testers noticed generous pushback when lying near or sitting along the perimeter of the mattress. This was particularly true for the firm and Plus models.
Other performance ratings varied by firmness level. Ease of movement was an area where the firmer models excelled. Our testers were able to scoot across the surface of these beds without feeling trapped or stuck. The medium soft model earned the highest marks for motion isolation, so people who are easily awakened by their partner’s movements may want to consider this firmness level.
The WinkBed is competitively priced for a hybrid and ground delivery is free for all customers in the contiguous U.S. Each mattress comes with a 120-night sleep trial. If you are dissatisfied with your initial choice, you may exchange the mattress for a model with a different firmness level at no extra cost. Return shipping is free and your replacement also comes with a trial period. You’ll also receive a lifetime warranty that covers structural defects for as long as you retain original ownership of the mattress.
Best Value Mattress
DreamCloud Mattress





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Mattress Type:
Hybrid
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Price Range:
$499 – $999
Pros
- Balanced hybrid design includes deep foam layers and a supportive coil system
- Excellent temperature control thanks to steady airflow and a breathable cashmere-blend cover
- Sleep trial spans 365 nights in length
Cons
- People who weigh more than 230 pounds may need a firmer model
- Foam layers may emit off-gassing odor when new
Bottom Line — Why It Makes the Cut
“The DreamCloud’s close contouring is impressive for a hybrid, especially at this price-point. The coils create a strong support system, but our testers felt plenty of cushioning from the foam layers.”
– Logan Foley, Managing Editor
The DreamCloud Mattress is one of the most balanced hybrids on the market today. The mattress features a deep comfort system with three foam layers and a robust pocketed coil system. These components ensure even contouring and sturdy support, while a medium firm (6) feel means most people who weigh at least 130 pounds can rest comfortably without sinking too much.
What It’s Made of
The DreamCloud begins with a layer of adaptive polyfoam quilted into its cover, followed by a memory foam comfort layer. Although the mattress is on the firmer side, these components give the surface a plush feel when you get into bed. A dense polyfoam transitional layer, pocketed coil system, and foam base layer stabilize the mattress and reinforce the edges against deep sinkage. Cashmere-blend fabric encases the entire mattress. The DreamCloud Mattress is considered a high-profile model.
How It Performed
The DreamCloud Mattress outperforms many of its hybrid competitors in terms of pressure relief and motion isolation. This can be attributed to its triple-layer comfort system, which helps the mattress contour closely without sacrificing support. Cooling is another key strength. Air circulates freely throughout the coil system to help the mattress maintain a reasonable internal temperature, while the cashmere-blend cover is breathable and also has moisture-wicking properties.
Among our testing team, the DreamCloud Mattress earned the most favorable ratings from side sleepers weighing between 130 and 230 pounds. Back and stomach sleepers up to 230 pounds also found the mattress comfortable and didn’t report any excessive sinkage.
The DreamCloud Mattress has a below-average price-point for a hybrid and ground shipping is free for all customers in the contiguous U.S. The company’s 365-night sleep trial is one of the longest in the industry, and those who choose to keep the mattress also receive a lifetime warranty against structural defects.
Most Comfortable Mattress
Helix Midnight


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20% off + 2 free pillows
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Mattress Type:
Hybrid
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Price Range:
$799 – $1,549
Pros
- Medium firm hybrid design combines adaptive foams with supportive pocketed coils
- Perimeter reinforcement reduces sinkage
- Free shipping to all 50 states and two free pillows with each order
Cons
- Some back and stomach sleepers find they need more support
- May not be ideal for couples who prioritize responsiveness
Bottom Line — Why It Makes the Cut
“The Helix Midnight is one of the most balanced hybrids we’ve tested in our lab. We also noticed a low amount of transfer during our motion isolation tests, but the coils should prevent you from sinking too deeply.”
– Jeremy Klein, Senior Product Expert
Helix’s mattress selection includes more than a dozen hybrid models, each geared toward certain weight groups and sleep positions. Thanks to its balanced medium firm (6) feel and approachable price-point, the Helix Midnight is one of the brand’s most popular models. This mattress was designed specifically for side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds, but our testing shows the Midnight should appeal to a wide range of sleepers — as well as couples.
What It’s Made of
The Midnight’s comfort layer is composed of open-cell memory foam, a breathable material that adapts to your body’s unique curves, promotes spinal alignment, and relieves pressure in the shoulders, lower back, and hips. Transitional polyfoam provides additional cushioning while pushing back against your weight to keep you on an even plane.
The support core contains pocketed coils over high-density base foam. Perimeter reinforcement stabilizes the edges when you sleep near the edges or get in and out of bed, so excessive sinkage and feelings of “roll-off” shouldn’t be an issue. The standard cover is made of soft knit polyester, but you can upgrade to a GlacioTex phase change material (PCM) cover if you want extra cooling.
How It Performed
During our hands-on tests, the Midnight’s most favorable ratings came from our side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds and back and stomach sleepers weighing less than 130 pounds. That said, most of our testers weighing up to 230 pounds found the mattress comfortable and sufficiently supportive.
We were also impressed with the Midnight’s motion isolation. The top foam layers absorb movement well, and our testers noticed very little motion transfer when lying next to one another on the mattress. Temperature control was another testing highlight. Due to the combination of breathable foam layers and steady airflow through the coils, our thermal sensors detected minimal heat buildup. For exceptional cooling, we recommend the GlacioTex cover.
The Midnight’s sticker price falls well below average for a hybrid model, and shipping is free to all 50 states. You’ll also receive two free pillows with your purchase. The Midnight is backed by a 100-night trial period and a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Best Mattress for Motion Isolation
Nectar Premier Copper


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Mattress Type:
Foam
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Price Range:
$999 – $2,198
Pros
- Cover includes copper and other heat-wicking technology
- Gel-infused memory foam has top-notch pressure relief
- All-foam construction isolates motion successfully
Cons
- Back and stomach sleepers may prefer a more supportive model
- Foam layers can restrict movement and cause sinking along the edges
Bottom Line — Why It Makes the Cut
“The Nectar Copper Premier is a great pick for co-sleepers who wake each other up. During our motion isolation tests, we noticed virtually no transfer of movement across the mattress’ surface thanks to its thick foam layers.”
– Jeremy Klein, Senior Product Expert
The all-foam Nectar Premier Copper is a luxe model that blends pressure relief and support. Its medium firm (6) feel and contouring memory foam is most comfortable for side sleepers, though back sleepers under 130 pounds also found it appealing. While this model has an above-average price-point for an all-foam mattress, it’s full of features that are attractive to many sleepers.
What It’s Made of
This model’s cover blends polyester with materials like copper and polyethylene, which aim to wick away heat and moisture to help you stay cool. The thick memory foam layer that tops the comfort system has gel and phase change material to further regulate temperature. This layer compresses with your weight, cradling your hips and shoulders to absorb impact and alleviate pressure point discomfort.
A thick transitional layer of polyfoam rests between the gel-infused memory foam and support core, keeping you situated comfortably on top of the mattress. The support core is composed of high-density polyfoam that anchors the mattress and keeps your spine evenly aligned. A no-slip base ensures that your mattress stays put.
How It Performed
All-foam mattresses often excel at isolating motion and the Nectar Premier Copper is no exception. When sleeping on an innerspring or exceptionally responsive model, you may be able to feel your partner move on their side of the bed. On the Nectar Premier Copper, you can switch sleeping positions without waking your partner. The foam layers absorb movement where it occurs rather than allowing it to transfer across the bed.
Nectar ships its mattress for free within the contiguous U.S. and offers customers a generous 365-night sleep trial. A lifetime limited warranty covers impressions deeper than 1.5 inches and manufacturer defects.
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
Layla Hybrid


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-
Mattress Type:
Hybrid
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Price Range:
$1,299 – $1,899
Pros
- Reversible design features a distinct feel on each side
- Zoned coils support the midsection and protect the edges from deep sinkage
- Zip-and-wash cover helps you keep the mattress clean and hygienic
Cons
- Foam layers can restrict movement on the surface
- Some back sleepers may prefer a model with a mid-range firmness level
Bottom Line — Why It Makes the Cut
“The flippable Layla Hybrid is a great option for couples who want above-average motion isolation without sacrificing temperature control or coil support. I’ve slept on this mattress for 3 years and love falling into the soft, plush surface at the end of each day.”
– Tom Ryan, Head of Product Testing
If you and your partner both tend to overheat in bed, a cooling mattress can be a solid investment. During numerous rounds of testing, the Layla Hybrid has consistently displayed standout temperature control. We attribute this to open-cell foam layers, a coil system that promotes steady airflow, and a breathable cover. Both sides of this flippable mattress sleep fairly cool, but our team was particularly impressed with the firmer surface.
What It’s Made of
The Layla Hybrid’s medium soft (4) side contains 2.5 inches of memory foam, followed by a 2-inch polyfoam transitional layer. This surface contours closely to promote even alignment and cushion sore spots along the spine. Copper infused into the top layer helps offset the foam’s heat-retaining properties, allowing you to stay cool despite the deep hug. The firm (7) side also features these materials, but the layers are thinner to create a more supportive feel.
Shared pocketed coils in the middle of the mattress provide reinforcement and stability to both sides. The coils are zoned to push back against your midsection without feeling too stiff beneath your head and legs. A stretchy polyester, rayon, viscose, and poly-lycra blend cover encases the mattress. Carrying handles on both sides help you and a partner flip the mattress with relative ease. You can unzip, remove, and machine wash the cover to keep your sleep surface hygienic without spot cleaning.
How It Performed
Our team personally tested both sides of the Layla Hybrid. Due to its close conforming and ample padding, the medium soft side was most comfortable for our side sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds. Back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds also received adequate support from this surface. The firm side earned favorable ratings from our back and stomach sleepers across all weight groups but those weighing at least 130 pounds were particularly impressed. The same was true for our side sleepers of at least 130 pounds.
During our temperature control tests, thermal sensors revealed little to no heat buildup on the Layla Hybrid’s firm side. We noticed slightly more heat on the medium soft side, but not enough to make any of our testers uncomfortable. The softer surface provided better motion isolation for our testers, while the firmer side felt firmer and more stable along the perimeter.
Layla offers free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. Your purchase comes with a sleep trial spanning 120 nights in length. If you choose to keep your Layla Hybrid, the mattress is further backed by a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Best Cooling Mattress
Casper Snow


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Mattress Type:
Hybrid
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Price Range:
$1,495 – $2,395
Pros
- Thick foam layers excel at pressure relief
- Multiple cooling features help regulate temperature on the surface
- Dual foam comfort system minimizes motion transfer
Cons
- Inadequate support for most back and stomach sleepers over 230 pounds
- Limited edge support
Bottom Line — Why It Makes the Cut
“Plush foam layers usually go hand in hand with heat retention, but the Casper Snow is engineered with cooling in mind. If foam is a must-have on your mattress checklist but you’re worried about overheating, this model might strike the balance you’re looking for.”
– Jeremy Klein, Senior Product Expert
The Casper Snow is a hybrid mattress with a thick foam comfort system. This plush model deeply cradles your body for strong pressure relief, while the cooling features help keep heat buildup to a minimum.
How It Performed
This bed stood out to our testing team for its temperature-regulating design. Foam is known for its heat-trapping properties, but overheating was less of an issue with the Snow due to phase change material and strategically placed HeatDelete bands in the comfort system. Proprietary AirScape material in the topmost layer also helped aerate the bed.
The Snow earned high marks for pressure relief during our performance tests. The plush surface deeply cushions and cradles sensitive areas like the shoulders, hips, and spine. The thick foam layers also absorb a lot of motion transfer, which is ideal for anyone who is easily awoken when their co-sleeper moves at night. The Snow felt most comfortable for side and back sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds.
What It’s Made of
The Casper Snow measures 12 inches thick. The top layer is composed of AirScape polyfoam with a perforated design intended for air circulation. Beneath is a memory foam layer with a zoned construction that enhances support to the lower back while offering extra cushioning to the head and sensitive joints. HeatDelete Bands are placed between the foam layers to regulate heat on the surface. The support core contains pocketed coils that provide sturdy support and a high-density foam perimeter that moderately strengthens the edges. The cover is made with a cooling fabric engineered to reduce heat retention.
The Casper Mattress ships free to customers in the contiguous U.S. and provincial Canada. You’ll receive a 100-night sleep trial to try the mattress at home. The bed is backed by a 10-year warranty.
Best Mattress for Sex
Emma Hybrid Comfort


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Mattress Type:
Hybrid
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Price Range:
$739 – $1,499
Pros
- Zoned pocketed coils feel firmer around the midsection and gently cradle lighter areas of the body
- Above-average motion isolation and pressure relief for a hybrid
- All orders include two free pillows and a year-long sleep trial
Cons
- Foam layers may emit strong off-gassing odor for the first few nights
- Potentially too firm for side sleepers under 130 pounds
Bottom Line — Why It Makes the Cut
“We’ve tested a lot of hybrid models, and the Emma Hybrid Comfort is one of the most balanced in the bunch thanks to adaptive foam layers over a zoned support system. The result is a coil mattress that feels stable, won’t produce too much motion transfer, alleviates pressure, and sleeps cool.”
– Logan Foley, Managing Editor
When it comes to sex, most couples prefer mattresses that provide light cushioning while pushing back against weight and minimizing sinkage. The Emma Hybrid Comfort is a medium firm (6) mattress with a zoned support system to reinforce the heaviest areas of your body without making the entire surface feel overly stiff. Pocketed coils over dense base foam generate some springiness, but not enough to produce disruptive transfer while you’re asleep.
What It’s Made of
The Hybrid Comfort’s topmost layer is composed of adaptive polyfoam, adding a bit of plushness to the surface. Memory foam and transitional foam layers feel firmer and more supportive beneath your torso and hips, so deep sinkage shouldn’t be an issue — even if you and your partner carry extra weight in your midsections.
The support core contains seven-zone pocketed coils and a thick, high-density polyfoam base. You’ll notice some springiness from the coils, but probably not enough to generate disruptive motion transfer for your partner when you move around in bed, and vice versa. A breathable polyester cover encases the mattress.
How It Performed
Since the Hybrid Comfort is softer and more adaptive than many competing hybrid models, the most favorable ratings came from our side sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds, and back and stomach sleepers up to 230 pounds.
Our testers noticed minimal motion transfer when lying side by side on the Hybrid Comfort and the mattress didn’t produce much noise, so we don’t anticipate any sleep disruptions or loud creaks during sex. The internal components also promote enough airflow to help the mattress sleep cool. Pressure relief was another strong performance area during our tests. This is largely due to the relatively firm feel and zoned coil system.
Emma ships the Hybrid Comfort free of charge throughout the contiguous U.S. The company’s 365-night sleep trial is one of the longest in the online mattress industry. If you choose to keep the mattress, you’ll also receive a 10-year warranty against structural defects.
Best Luxury Mattress
Solaire


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-
Mattress Type:
Airbed
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Price Range:
$2,525 – $4,925
Pros
- Talalay latex and memory foam comfort system contours to pressure points
- Airbed design allows you to adjust the firmness
- Generous 365-night sleep trial and free White Glove delivery
Cons
- $99 fee incurred with all returns
- Above-average price-point for a mattress
Bottom Line — Why It Makes the Cut
“The Solaire is made with high-end materials that are reflected in a hefty price tag, but where the mattress really stands out to me is the firmness customization options. The ability to pick a different feel for each half of the bed is a nice touch.”
– Colin Simpson, Research Manager
The Solaire by Saatva is a luxury airbed that can be adjusted from a soft (3) to a firm (8) feel, for a total of 50 firmness levels. If you purchase a queen size or larger, you can even customize a different feel for each half of the mattress, making this a great choice for co-sleepers who have different firmness preferences.
How It Performed
Thanks to the customizable design, the Solaire is a great choice for many sleepers. However, the responsive comfort system best suited the testers on our team who weigh at least 130 pounds across sleep positions. These sleepers found excellent cushioning from the foam and latex without sinking to an excessive degree. People whose firmness needs change from night to night should also appreciate the adjustable design.
The Solaire performed very well across our testing criteria, but it excelled in our sex and temperature neutrality tests. The mattress has a responsive feel conducive to sex that allows couples to move across it with ease. The breathable components and air chamber support core encourage air circulation to keep sleepers cool.
What It’s Made of
A thick Euro-top gives the surface a plush feel, and it’s zoned to offer more support in the lumbar region. This is followed by a layer of aerated Talalay latex that gently cradles the body. This latex has five zones that offer extra support to the lower back while alleviating pressure. Next is a layer of gel-infused memory foam that adapts to the body and relieves pressure points. The gel infusion is meant to absorb and dissipate excess body heat.
The support core is composed of vulcanized air chambers with a baffle box design that ensures even firmness throughout the mattress. A moisture barrier layer above the air chambers protects them from damage and bacterial growth. A perimeter encasement reinforces the edges of the mattress to prevent sagging. This encasement also discretely holds the air inflator and hoses. The cover is made from breathable organic cotton.
Customers living in the contiguous U.S. are eligible for free White Glove delivery. Saatva offers a 365-night sleep trial, during which you can return the mattress for a full refund minus a $99 fee. The Solaire is backed by a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty.
Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid


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-
Mattress Type:
Hybrid
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Price Range:
$665 – $1,599
Pros
- Foam comfort layer offers excellent pressure relief
- Three firmness options
- Optional cooling cover reduces heat buildup
Cons
- Off-gassing odors may occur when first unboxing
- Foam layers restrict some movement in softer models
Bottom Line — Why It Makes the Cut
“The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid comes in three firmness options, but each model has a balanced foam-and-coil design that feels comfortable for a variety of body types and sleep positions. Versatile beds like this are a dream for combination sleepers.”
– Jeremy Klein, Senior Product Expert
The Signature Hybrid from Brooklyn Bedding is a well-rounded bed that comes in three firmness levels. While the various options provide different levels of plushness, they all excel in pressure relief while maintaining sturdy support. People across different sleep positions should benefit from this balanced design.
What It’s Made of
The bed is available in medium soft (4), medium firm (6), and firm (8) designs. The materials and construction vary slightly with each firmness option, but all models begin with a quilted surface that gently cushions your body. Beneath is a polyfoam layer with a moderately responsive feel, followed by a layer of proprietary VariFlex foam that buffers your body from the support core. The VariFlex foam in the two softer models offers deeper compression than the VariFlex in the firmest model.
All three options feature a sturdy coil system in the support core, with reinforced perimeter coils to boost edge support. The cover is made of soft cotton, and you can upgrade to a cooling pillow-top on any of the models. This option adds thicker cushioning and a cover made with a heat-regulating material.
How It Performed
If you’re looking for a bed that offers significant contouring without too much sinkage, the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid hits the right marks. We found that the foam comfort system provides excellent pressure relief regardless of which firmness level you pick. The two softer models also isolated motion very well during our tests, making these options a good choice for co-sleepers who wake each other up with nighttime movement.
Our testers did prefer certain designs based on their body type. The firm option appealed most to back and stomach sleepers over 130 pounds. The medium firm was best suited for sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds, regardless of sleep position. The soft was most comfortable for side sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds and back sleepers under 130 pounds.
The Signature Hybrid comes with a 120-night sleep trial and a 10-year warranty. Customers residing in the contiguous U.S. receive free shipping.
Best Mattress for Back Pain
Bear Elite Hybrid


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-
Mattress Type:
Hybrid
-
Price Range:
$1,893 – $3,920
Pros
- Three firmness options
- Pocketed coil system ensures a responsive surface that’s easy to move across
- Adaptive memory foam layer contours to the body to relieve pressure
Cons
- Foam layers may limit surface responsiveness
- Mixed-foam comfort system is prone to off-gassing
Bottom Line — Why It Makes the Cut
“I found the Bear Elite Hybrid checks many boxes for couples and co-sleepers. The mattress compresses under your weight while maintaining a fairly responsive surface, a design that helps alleviate back pain by promoting proper spinal alignment.”
– Tom Ryan, Head of Product Testing
Mattresses that best suit couples tend to excel in performance areas like temperature control, motion isolation, edge support, and responsiveness for sex. During our tests, the Bear Elite Hybrid proved a strong contender in all of these categories. With multiple firmness options available, you can pick a model that promotes strong sleep posture for your particular sleep preferences.
What It’s Made of
The Elite Hybrid features a top layer of adaptive memory foam infused with copper that responds slowly to your body. This layer is infused with copper, which has natural cooling properties. A polyfoam transitional layer offers extra cushioning. The foam is divided into five firmness zones to ensure enhanced support for the midsection and more give for a gentler feel around the head and legs.
Pocketed coils and base polyfoam make up the support core. The coils are zoned to boost lumbar support and are thicker along the perimeter, pushing back when you sleep near the edges or get on and off the mattress. A cover made of Celliant-blend fabric encases the mattress. Celliant is an innovative material engineered to capture and dissipate your body heat, maintaining a cool feel at all times.
How It Performed
The Elite Hybrid is available in three firmness levels. We evaluated each design during our hands-on tests, and side and back sleepers weighing more than 230 pounds preferred the light cushioning and robust support of the firm (8) feel. Our stomach sleepers in this weight group also found the firm model most comfortable, but their ratings were slightly less favorable. Based on these results, the foam layers may be too thick for people who favor this position. If you are a side or back sleeper who needs deeper cushioning, the medium (5) or medium firm (6) feels may be more suitable.
The reinforced perimeter allowed the Elite Hybrid to excel during our edge support tests. Cooling is another strength of the mattress, thanks to its cooling Celliant-blend cover and steady airflow throughout the interior. We also found the Elite Hybrid provides above-average motion isolation. While lying side by side on the mattress, our testers noticed minimal motion transfer — even when the other person changed positions or got out of bed.
Bear offers free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. The Elite Hybrid’s sleep trial runs for 120 nights, and those who keep the mattress receive a lifetime warranty.
Data-Driven Results You Can Trust
Our testing methodology incorporates many factors relevant to couples, such as motion isolation, noise, temperature control, and responsiveness for sex. The testers on our team differ in terms of body weight and sleep position, helping us gauge experiences for a wide range of sleepers. The picks listed above earned exemplary ratings during our evaluations for couple-friendly mattresses.
How Our Testing Process Works
For this guide, we asked two testers to lie side by side throughout the evaluation process. We also took factors like pricing, quality of construction, and sleep trial length into account. Ultimately, these mattresses made our final cut, but we’ll continue to test different beds and revisit our original picks to keep this list as helpful and well-rounded as possible.
For more information, read our product research methodology below:
motion isolation
Motion isolation refers to a mattress’ ability to absorb movement and prevent it from transferring across the surface. This criteria is important for couples, especially those extremely sensitive to their partner’s movement.
temperature control
Sharing a bed with another person can sometimes cause a mattress to trap more heat. Mattresses made with breathable materials and coil support cores allow more air circulation to keep sleepers cool.
pressure relief
Pressure relief is especially important for side sleepers and those with joint pain. Mattresses made with memory foam or latex comfort layers tend to perform well in this category.
off gassing
Off-gassing is a temporary issue for new mattresses, but the resulting odors can be annoying for many sleepers. Emissions from volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or other material smells typically cause these odors.
ease of movement
Ease of movement is important for couples in both sex and sleep. Mattresses made with responsive comfort materials like latex tend to facilitate easier movement across the surface.
edge support
Mattresses with better edge support increase the overall usability of the bed, allowing couples to use the entire surface. Those with less perimeter support cause sleepers to sleep toward the center.
sex
A mattress’ performance during sex is a priority for many couples. Generally, responsive mattresses with higher marks in ease of movement and edge support also rank well for sex.
body weight
Body weight is a major determining factor for firmness and support needs. Our recommendations based on body weight are subjective, so we encourage sleepers to test out multiple firmness levels.

Dive Deeper — In-Depth Mattress Guides
If you and your partner are still not sure which type of mattress would best fit your needs, you can take a look at our collection of mattress guides broken down by sleep preferences.
Best Mattress by Sleeper Type
- Best Mattress for Athletes
- Best Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
- Best Mattress for Kids
- Best Mattress for Toddlers
- Best Mattress for Seniors
- Best Mattress for Teenagers
- Best Cooling Mattress for Hot Sleepers
- Best Tempur-Pedic Mattress for Side Sleepers
- Best Tempur-Pedic Mattress for Back Sleepers
- Best Tempur-Pedic Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
How to Buy a Mattress as a Couple
Finding a mattress just for yourself can be complicated, but buying a mattress for two people takes on an added degree of difficulty. Every individual sleeper has their own needs and preferences, and couples need to find a mattress that has something to offer for both people.
Other aspects of mattress performance, including isolating motion, limiting noise, and facilitating sex, tend to be important for couples as well. Understanding your priorities is crucial, and the following sections outline key steps in the mattress buying process for couples.
Determine Your Individual Needs
A good starting point is for each person to identify their “must-haves” and “want-to-haves” in a new mattress. These preferences should account for each individual’s body weight, sleeping position, and ideal firmness.
After each person has made their list, compare them and see how much they coincide. If there are differences, it’s important to talk through which priorities are most important and which are open to compromise.
If you need more detail about what items to focus on in determining your priorities, the next section has you covered.
What Should You Look for in a Mattress?
It’s easy to get confused or overwhelmed when shopping for a mattress. Knowing what’s really important as opposed to what’s just marketing hype can be tricky, especially if you’re a couple buying a new mattress together for the first time.
When it comes to couples specifically, there are three main factors you should strongly consider: motion isolation, ease of movement/sex, and firmness. We’ll delve into these factors below, and cover other mattress features you should take into account when shopping for a bed.
- Motion Isolation: Motion isolation is a huge factor for couples because it prevents one person’s movements from disrupting the other. It’s especially important if one person is easily awoken and/or moves frequently in their sleep. Among mattress materials, memory foam stands out for preventing motion transfer.
- Ease of Movement / Sex: Moving effortlessly on top of the mattress can enable an active sex life, making ease of movement a key consideration for couples. Latex and hybrid mattresses tend to be easiest to move on while memory foam can restrict movement.
- Firmness Level: Your mattress should be an inviting and relaxing place to doze off, which demands that it be comfortable. The right firmness is crucial for comfort, and couples may need to compromise to find a feel that works for both people.
“When it comes to sleep, everyone’s comfort preferences are different…I recommend investing in an option with a good return policy, so you can try it out for at least a month or so to decide whether it’s comfortable for you.”
– Sarah Silverman, Psy.D., a licensed psychologist and holistic sleep wellness consultant who treats patients in New York and Florida.
In addition to the above attributes, there are a range of other factors to consider when buying a mattress. Couple or not, the following attributes are crucial in determining the best bed for you.
- Price: Every couple has to shop within their budget, so it’s important to discuss your price range upfront. A higher price doesn’t always equate to higher quality, and discounts and promos help make even top-notch beds available at solid values, especially when you shop online.
- Sleeping Position: Your support needs depend in large part on how you sleep. Most side sleepers do well with mattresses that are medium to medium firm, back sleepers with medium firm to firm, and stomach sleepers with firm. Couples need a mattress that suits the sleeping position of each person.
- Contouring: Contouring is how a mattress can compress to fit your body. Contouring can help with pressure relief and spinal support, but the right amount is key. Insufficient conforming can be bothersome to some sleepers, while excess contouring can reduce airflow around the body, raising the risk of heat retention.
- Quality Materials: If you want a mattress that serves your needs night after night for many years, then you should look for quality materials. High-end components perform better and last longer, especially when supporting two people instead of one.
- Edge Support: With two people on a mattress, it’s helpful to be able to use every inch of the surface of the bed, and this requires solid edge support. Hybrid and latex mattresses usually offer better edge support than foam beds, which can compress significantly around the perimeter.
- Temperature Neutrality: Some mattresses collect heat, particularly when they are absorbing the body heat of two sleepers. Sleeping hot can cause discomfort and nighttime disruptions, so couples with concerns about temperature regulation should look for materials, like latex and innerspring coils, that resist heat retention.
- Noise: Squeaks from a mattress can interrupt a good night’s sleep, and they can also be unwelcome for couples who want to discreetly engage in intimate activities. For this reason, couples benefit from a quiet mattress. Most modern mattresses are relatively quiet, but latex and all-foam beds tend to generate the least noise.
Why Buy a New Mattress?
As with so many aspects of living with a partner, buying a new mattress often requires compromise. Understanding what’s most important to each person and then being flexible and reasonable can make mattress shopping more pleasant and improve the odds of finding a great mattress that works for both people.


Which Type of Mattress is Best for Couples?
Most couples find that it’s helpful to become familiar with the types of mattresses on the market. Knowing the benefits and downsides of these types can guide them to their best option.
There are five types of mattresses described below. Keep in mind that mattresses within each category will share some traits, but how any specific model performs can vary depending on its exact design and components.
Foam
Definition: All of the layers of these mattresses are made with foam. This construction almost always involves a mixture of foams, such as a high-density polyfoam support core and memory foam and/or polyfoam in the comfort system. Foam beds never include an innerspring layer.
Top-Notch Motion Isolation: Foams that are used in mattresses, especially memory foams, have unique properties that allow them to compress only where weight is applied. This keeps the movement of one person from being felt on other parts of the mattress, and this motion isolation is a big plus for couples.
Innerspring
Definition: The central component of an innerspring mattress is a coil-based system to support the body. The compression of coils is what drives the feel of an innerspring, which has little or no comfort system for extra cushioning.
Economical and Modifiable: Innersprings often come with a low price tag, but they normally can’t deliver the motion isolation or pressure relief that couples need. To remedy this, couples can buy an affordable mattress topper that suits their preferences and place it on top of the innerspring.
Hybrid
Definition: Hybrids have a two-part construction. The bottom is a support core of innerspring coils. Above the support core is the comfort system, which can be composed of one or more layers. Those layers can be made with materials like memory foam, polyfoam, micro-coils, latex, polyester, wool, and cotton.
A Solid Middle Ground: Because they are a blend of different materials, hybrids can be a great compromise for couples. They usually provide above-average bounce and edge support from the support core while simultaneously isolating motion and relieving pressure thanks to the comfort system.
Latex
Definition: Latex is the central component in the layers of a latex mattress. This rubber material can be made with natural or chemical inputs. Natural latex, which is derived from the sap of rubber trees, is used more frequently in quality latex beds that are sold online.
Responsive and Cool: The bounce that comes from latex makes it a leading option for couples that want to move easily on top of their mattress. It has a notable but not excessive hug, allowing it to cushion the body without retaining significant heat.
Airbed
Definition: The defining feature of an airbed is its support core made of air chambers. The amount of air, and thus the firmness of the bed, can be adjusted using a remote or smartphone that controls an attached pump. Layers of foam, latex, or fabric may be used to form a comfort system above the support core.
Firmness For Each Side: A huge selling point is that airbeds have separate chambers on each side, letting each half of the mattress have a different firmness. For partners who don’t agree on the optimal firmness level, an airbed offers a straightforward solution.
What Else Should Couples Think About?
We’ve covered some key factors that couples should keep in mind when looking for a mattress, but below are a few more considerations.
Mattress Size
To comfortably accommodate two people, couples should opt for a full mattress or larger. Many couples prefer a queen or king to have more space, especially if one or more of them have a larger body size. A bigger mattress provides roominess in bed but has a higher price and takes up more floor space, potentially crowding the bedroom.
Consider a Dual Firmness Mattress
A mattress with dual firmness allows each side to have a different feel and is most useful when a couple has a major divergence in preferences. There are two main ways to get a mattress with dual firmness:
- Purchase an airbed, such as the well-known Sleep Number beds. Each side has its own adjustable air chamber that determines the firmness.
- Buy a split king mattress, which is the same total size as a king but composed of two separate twin XL mattresses that can have a distinct feel.
Rarely, manufacturers may allow you to customize the firmness on each side of the bed, but even when available, this comes at a significant price premium.
Sleep Trial Period
A sleep trial lets you use a mattress in your own bedroom with the ability to make a return if you aren’t satisfied. A no-risk sleep trial is especially helpful for couples because they have more complex mattress needs. We advise couples to look for a sleep trial of at least 100 nights that ideally has no restocking or return shipping fees.
Shipping
Almost all online mattresses come with free ground shipping. The mattress should arrive within 10 business days in a box delivered to your doorstep. Also known as a “mattress in a box,” the compressed mattress will expand to full size after you remove it from the packaging.
White Glove delivery includes installation of a new mattress and removal of an old one. A few companies provide this service for free, some offer it for an extra charge, and many do not offer it at all.
If you live outside the contiguous United States, shipping options may be limited and come with additional charges.
Warranty
A mattress warranty offers a repair or a replacement if a defect arises in the mattress. Warranties don’t cover normal wear-and-tear, so they only apply when there is a serious and abnormal problem.
It is important to read a warranty closely and examine its key details, including:
- The total length of the warranty
- What types of defects are covered
- Whether it is prorated (providing less coverage the longer you own the mattress) or non-prorated
- Whether the company or customer covers shipping costs related to a warranty claim
- Any special terms of use or conditions that could void the warranty
Almost all mattresses will come with a warranty, but one that is longer and non-prorated tends to offer better customer protection.
Outfitting the Bedroom
Buying a new mattress can be an ideal opportunity for couples to update their bedroom to make it more cozy, comfortable, and conducive to a good night’s sleep.
While a mattress plays a central role in setting up your bedroom, some other elements to consider include sheets, pillows, bed frames, and mattress toppers.
Sheets
Sheets can make a bed more comfortable in multiple ways. They can add softness, crispness, or even a weighty feel. Some sheets are moisture-wicking and breathable to keep you cool, and others are thicker and hold in heat for winter. In this way, sheets can complement your mattress and address many common issues related to temperature regulation
Pillows
A pillow is vital to support the head and neck, and as a result, it plays a part in overall spinal alignment. Choosing an appropriate loft level can keep the body aligned, reducing the risk of neck and back pain. The right loft can combat snoring, and certain pillow materials can help with temperature regulation as well.
The best pillow for any person depends on their sleeping position, body size, and mattress firmness. For a couple, there’s no need for compromise; each person can pick their favorite pillow and use it on their side of the bed.
Bed Frames
Placing your mattress on a quality base can assure that your mattress is more stable and lasts longer. In fact, using a mattress on an unsupportive base can often void the mattress warranty.
Some types of bed frames add extra functionality. For example, an adjustable base allows the upper and lower sections to be elevated, which can be a boon for people who struggle with back or hip pain. A split adjustable bed lets each side of the bed be adjusted to different positions.
The bed frame can also contribute to the aesthetics of your bedroom based on its material and design elements such as whether it has a headboard or footboard.
Mattress Topper
A mattress topper is an alternative to buying a whole new mattress. It is a layer of material, typically between 1 and 4 inches thick, that sits on top of an existing mattress. Memory foam, polyfoam, latex, down, and cotton all may be used in toppers, and they can give a new feel to a bed at a lower price than a new mattress.
Toppers are worth considering for couples who want to upgrade their bed but have a limited budget. It can also be useful for couples that can’t find a compromise on a new mattress and want to test out a smaller change. If you have a king mattress, two twin XL toppers can be used to create a dual firmness feel.
While toppers have their uses, they can’t save a mattress that is in poor condition and starting to wear out. On a sagging mattress, even a new topper will quickly start to sag as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Every mattress caters to different types of sleepers. The “best” mattress for you and your partner could differ considerably from the best mattress for another couple. That said, some mattress types perform better than others in certain areas related to couples, such as motion isolation, ease of movement, and sex.
If you and your partner tend to wake each other up when changing positions or getting in and out of bed, then you should make motion isolation a top priority when picking out a mattress. Models with strong motion isolation will absorb your movement and prevent it from transferring across the surface. Motion transfer may lead to frequent sleep disruptions. All-foam mattresses and hybrids with thick foam layers usually provide the best motion isolation, while traditional innersprings and latex hybrids are the most responsive mattress types and tend to cause the most transfer.
When it comes to ease of movement and suitability for sex, the opposite is usually true. Mattresses that feel exceptionally responsive and springy are usually the easiest to move across without sinking excessively – especially for people who weigh more than 230 pounds. Many couples also prefer these mattresses for sex. On less responsive beds, you and your partner may sink too deeply during sex. Many equate this feeling to “fighting with the mattress.”
There are other factors to consider when couples pick out a new mattress. If you reside in a warm or humid area, you may want to consider a mattress that contains breathable components and doesn’t trap too much heat. If you or your partner feel achy after waking up, then a mattress that contours around the spine to alleviate pressure may be the best option. Other factors include firmness level, price, and size.
Every couple should browse a wide range of brands and models to learn more about different mattress options. You and your partner can also read customer reviews to learn about the pros and cons of each mattress type. Many online mattress brands offer sleep trials after you complete your purchase. These trial periods – which usually span at least 3 months and can extend beyond 1 year – give you ample time to test out the mattress and decide if it’s a good fit for both of you. If you choose not to keep the mattress, most brands will cover return shipping costs and issue a full refund.
People who weigh more than 230 pounds generally need more support from their mattress than lighter individuals. Otherwise they’ll sink too deeply into the mattress, increasing the likelihood of aches, pains, and pressure points in areas like the shoulders and hips. This is especially true for back and stomach sleepers.
The best mattresses for people in this weight group tend to be on the firmer side. A 6 or higher on the 1-10 firmness scale will suffice in most cases. The support system is another important consideration. Even on firm mattresses, base layers with coils or solid latex will probably provide better reinforcement than foam. Many leading brands sell mattresses specifically designed for people who weigh at least 230 pounds.
For couples with one person who weighs 230 pounds and another who weighs less, a mattress with dual firmness may be the best bet. These mattresses are designed to feel softer on one side and firmer on the other, ensuring both people receive the right balance of contouring and support for their bodies.
Every couple should take factors like budget and bedroom dimensions into consideration before settling on one of the six standard mattress sizes. However, some sizes are more comfortable for two people than others.
The general rule-of-thumb is that twin, twin XL, and full sizes are best suited to single sleepers because they’re too narrow for two people. The next largest size is a queen mattress, which measures 60 inches wide by 80 inches long. Queen size mattresses offer adequate space for many couples. Those who want a roomier sleep surface – as well as couples with small children or pets who share their bed – may want to consider a king mattress (76 inches wide by 80 inches long) or California king (72 inches wide by 84 inches long).
Split sizes are a great investment for couples who use adjustable beds. As their name suggests, these mattresses are divided lengthwise down the middle. Splits allow both sleepers to elevate or lower their heads and feet to their preferred angles without affecting their partner’s side. Split kings and split California kings are most common, but some manufacturers also offer split queens.
Your firmness preference will likely depend on factors such as body weight and primary sleep position. People who weigh less than 130 pounds tend to favor soft to medium soft mattresses that contour closely and alleviate pressure, while those who weigh more than 230 pounds typically need a firm feel with less cushioning and more support. Most sleepers weighing 130 to 230 pounds fall right in the middle of the spectrum and will prefer a medium to medium firm mattress.
Side sleeping generally requires more conforming and a softer feel to ensure even spinal alignment. Back and stomach sleeping promotes proper alignment, so people who use these positions usually need a mattress that will keep their bodies on an even plane and won’t sag around the midsection.
If you and your partner share similar body types and/or sleep positions, then you can probably find a firmness level that will be sufficiently comfortable for both of you. Couples who belong to different weight or position groups may also be able to compromise on a firmness level. Medium soft to medium firm are the most balanced feels in terms of cushioning and support.
Another option is to purchase a dual-firmness mattress constructed with a different feel on each side. This is a standard feature of adjustable airbeds, but in recent years mattress manufacturers have also released foam, coil, and latex mattresses with dual-firmness designs.
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.