Comfort is subjective and can change from person to person, but our product experts have tested hundreds of mattresses and found there are a few characteristics that the most comfortable mattresses share. In our picks below, we’ll explain what kind of support level you should look for based on your body weight and sleeping position. We’ll also cover other factors that affect your comfort, like pressure relief.

Want to learn more about how we choose our top mattress picks? Visit our guide to best mattress of 2024. Are you looking for a mattress that helps alleviate pain? Check out our list of the best mattresses for back pain for more information.

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Best Overall Mattress

Helix Midnight Luxe

9.3 /10

Test Lab Score

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This luxury hybrid combines temperature regulation with comfort and support. It’s one of the most well-rounded options from the Helix brand, a higher-end model that pleases side and back sleepers in equal measure.

The Most Comfortable Mattresses - Best Overall Mattress - Helix Midnight Luxe

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: Among hot sleepers, the Midnight Luxe is a solid choice for side and back sleepers in all weight categories and for stomach sleepers weighing between 130 and 230 pounds. It is best for those with a mild-to-moderate heat sensitivity.

Feel: Thanks to its hybrid design and eucalyptus-derived Tencel cover that is both breathable and moisture wicking, the Midnight Luxe remains cool all night long.

What It’s Made Of: The Midnight Luxe is topped with a pillow-top, with two layers of memory foam beneath it. Support and conforming comes by way of a polyfoam transitional layer. The cooling system consists of the mattress’s conforming memory foam without excessive heat retention and its coil system in the support core.

What We Don’t Like: Those with very high heat sensitivity might find that, while this mattress does help with temperature regulation, it might not quite meet their needs. Additionally, stomach and back sleepers weighing more than 230 pounds might not feel enough support.

Scoring & Reviews

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

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8.5/10

130-230 lbs

10/10

Above 230 lbs

8.5/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8/10

130-230 lbs

9.5/10

Above 230 lbs

8/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6.5/10

130-230 lbs

8/10

Above 230 lbs

6.5/10

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

The Helix Midnight Luxe is a foam hybrid model that offers a balance of conforming and support. We found that the medium firm (6) feel appeals to a wide range of sleepers across body types and sleep positions.

How It Performed

Thanks to the responsive pocketed coils, pillow-top design, and thick foam comfort system, the Midnight Luxe performed well during our motion isolation tests, preventing too much movement from rippling across the surface. Our testing showed that the mattress also sleeps cool, due in part to the strong airflow through the coils. We recommend the mattress for most sleepers up to 230 pounds, though we observed that side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds benefit the most from the bed’s balance of pressure relief and support.

Construction Breakdown

The Midnight Luxe has a quilted pillow-top design, beginning with polyfoam and gel-infused memory foam layers that contour closely to the body to relieve pressure points. Beneath is a polyfoam transitional layer that prevents you from sinking too far into the bed. Next is a substantial pocketed coil support core, providing significant support and allowing for airflow throughout the mattress. The coil layer also provides extra support in the lumbar area as well as along the bed’s perimeter.

For the cover, you may choose between a breathable Tencel cover or a GlacioTex Cooling cover, which is a fabric that keeps the surface cool using phase change technology. Note that the latter carries an additional cost.

Helix ships free to the contiguous U.S. Plus, they offer a 100-night sleep trial and a 10-year warranty.

Best Value Mattress

Brooklyn Bedding Essential

7.8 /10

Test Lab Score

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The Brooklyn Bedding Essential showcases the tried-and-true hybrid construction of adaptive foam over pocketed coils, but at a much lower price-point than most of the competition. Defining strengths include sturdy support, ample bounce, and excellent temperature.

The Most Comfortable Mattresses -  Best Value Mattress - Brooklyn Bedding Essential

Price

$699

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6)

Trial Period

120 nights (30-night requirement)

Our Verdict

Who It’s Best For: As a medium firm (6) foam hybrid, the Essential should hit that sweet spot for a wide range of sleeper types. These include side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds, back sleepers up to 230 pounds, and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds. Our tests also show the mattress is a good match for hot sleepers — the foam layers don’t retain much heat and air flows freely through the coil system.

Feel: You’ll notice some gentle cushioning when you get onto the Brooklyn Essential. Two foam layers conform to a moderate extent, so there’s some nice cradling without too much sink. The coils provide generous pushback against your weight, making the mattress easy to move on without feeling stuck.

What It’s Made Of: The Essential’s comfort system consists of a topmost layer of adaptive polyfoam, followed by denser transitional foam to create a buffer between your body and the support core. Pocketed coils and high-density base foam make up the support core, and the cover is a knit fabric blend.

What We Don’t Like: While its foam layers offer some contouring, the Essential may feel too firm for side sleepers under 130 pounds and others who need deep cushioning to sleep comfortably. Initial off-gassing odor is another potential issue — expect smells to linger for up to 72 hours after the mattress is removed from its shipping box.

Scoring & Reviews

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

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

5.5/10

130-230 lbs

7.5/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

5.5/10

130-230 lbs

7.5/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

5/10

130-230 lbs

7/10

Above 230 lbs

7/10

We performed a meta-analysis on 549 validated customer reviews of the Brooklyn Bedding Essential. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:

  • Pricing and Value: Many reviewers have highlighted that the mattress is affordable and offers great value for the price, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious shoppers.
  • Heat Regulation: Several users noted that the mattress does not retain heat, which contributes to a cooler and more comfortable sleep, especially for those who tend to sleep hot.
  • Edge Support: The mattress is reported to have good edge support, which is beneficial for those who use the edge of the bed frequently or sleep close to the sides.
  • Odor and Off-Gassing: Some reviews mention that the mattress has minimal off-gassing odor upon unpacking, which is a common concern with new mattresses. The smell will dissipate in a few days.
  • Hybrid Option: The availability of hybrid models is appreciated, particularly for those needing more support, such as individuals with larger frames.
  • Customer Service: Positive remarks about customer service suggest that the company handles queries and issues effectively.

Full Details

A comfortable sleep surface and approachable pricing don’t always go hand in hand — shoppers often have to sacrifice one for the other. The Brooklyn Bedding Essential offers the best of both worlds if you want a well-constructed mattress that’s also easy on your wallet. A true medium firm (6) feel ensures a balanced design that should appeal to a broad range of sleepers.

How It Performs

During hands-on tests, we found the Brooklyn Bedding Essential is best suited to sleepers seeking a balance of cushioning, support, and bounce. These generally include side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds, back sleepers weighing 230 pounds or less, and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds. Those who fall outside these ranges may also enjoy the mattress, but will likely need a softer or firmer model.

Temperature control tests show the Essential resists heat buildup and sleeps fairly cool. This can be attributed to consistent air circulation throughout the coil chamber and foam layers that don’t hug the body too closely. Edge support was another major strength — most of our testers noticed little to no sinkage when sitting along the perimeter.

Construction Breakdown

The Essential’s topmost layer is composed of adaptive polyfoam. This material molds to your figure to create a pressure-relieving cradle, but not to the same “hugging’ extent as memory foam. Transitional foam provides additional cushioning, but also pushes back to help keep your body on an even plane.

The support core contains pocketed coils and dense base foam, so the Essential feels quite stable — especially along the perimeter. A cotton-polyester cover encases the mattress. At 10.5 inches thick, the Essential won’t necessitate a deep-pocket fitted sheet.

Brooklyn Bedding offers free ground shipping to customers in the contiguous U.S., and each purchase includes a sleep trial that runs for 120 nights. If you choose to keep your Essential after the return period expires, it’s also covered under a 10-year warranty against workmanship defects.

Best Mattress for Back Pain

WinkBed

8.9 /10

Test Lab Score

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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.

The Most Comfortable Mattresses - Best Mattress for Back Pain - WinkBed

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.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8/10

130-230 lbs

9.5/10

Above 230 lbs

8/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7.5/10

130-230 lbs

9/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6/10

130-230 lbs

7.5/10

Above 230 lbs

6/10

We performed a meta-analysis on 8573 validated customer reviews of the Winkbed. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:

  • Quality of Materials: The mattress is frequently described as well-made, with durable materials that contribute to a good night’s sleep.
  • Cooling Features: Some reviewers mention that the mattress does a good job of regulating temperature, providing a cooler sleep experience.
  • Edge Support: While generally satisfied with the support, a few reviewers note that edge support could be better.
  • Comfort and Support: Many reviewers praise the mattress for its comfort and support, often mentioning relief from back pain and improved sleep quality.
  • Firmness Options: Customers appreciate the variety of firmness options available, finding the right balance for their personal preferences.
  • Value for Money: Many users feel the mattress is worth the investment, offering good value for the quality and comfort provided.
  • Made in the USA: Buyers are pleased that the mattresses are made in the USA, supporting domestic manufacturing.

Full Details

The WinkBed is a foam hybrid designed to cushion the body without sacrificing support. Available in four firmness levels, the mattress should be comfortable regardless of your body type or primary sleep position. The adaptive foam layers can also reduce soreness and pressure points if you experience back pain at night.

How It Performed

After testing each firmness level for the WinkBed, we noticed specific strengths for all four options. The medium soft (4) model contoured closely to distribute our testers’ weight and alleviated pressure along the spine. This design was most popular among our side and back sleepers weighing less than 130 pounds. If you want a more balanced feel, you should consider the medium firm (6) feel, which provides light conforming and excellent overall support. Our back and stomach sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds and side sleepers weighing more than 230 pounds awarded the most favorable ratings to this design.

The firm (7) and Plus (8) models should provide adequate reinforcement if you weigh more than 230 pounds, regardless of your preferred sleep position. These versions of the WinkBed also earned excellent ratings for edge support, and none of us had trouble moving across their surfaces. Another area where the WinkBed performed well is temperature control. This is mainly due to its cooling Tencel cover and steady air circulation through the coil system.

Construction Breakdown

Standard WinkBed models are available in medium soft, medium firm, and firm designs. These mattresses feature adaptive polyfoam quilted into their covers, followed by polyfoam comfort layers. The WinkBed Plus is constructed with responsive latex instead of a second foam layer. As a result, the Plus felt bouncier and more supportive than the other three models when we tested them.

All WinkBeds contain pocketed coil support cores. This layer is divided into different zones based on coil gauge, or thickness, creating more pushback beneath your torso and hips and gentler cradling for lighter areas of your body. A cover made of breathable, moisture-wicking Tencel fabric encases the mattress.

WinkBeds offers free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. Each mattress comes with a sleep trial allowing you to test the mattress for up to 120 nights. If you’re unsatisfied with your initial firmness selection, you may exchange the original mattress for a new model at no extra cost. The replacement model is also backed by a 60-night trial. WinkBeds provides a lifetime warranty to all buyers.

Best Mattress for Side Sleepers

Nolah Evolution 15

8.8 /10

Test Lab Score

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The Evolution 15 is Nolah’s top-of-the-line mattress. It’s a hybrid mattress that focuses on zoned support to relieve high-pressure areas for side sleepers.

The Most Comfortable Mattresses - Best Mattress for Side Sleepers - Nolah Evolution 15

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 with back pain and people who experience painful buildup at night welcome the cozy contouring of the foam layers with the strong support of a coil system.

Feel: The Nolah Evolution feels plush when sinking in to it due to all the foam layers but still feels relatively easy to move around on the surface of the mattress due to its responsive support core.

What It’s Made Of:
The Nolah Evolution 15 features a Euro-top cover quilted with foam, a proprietary AirFoam comfort layer (for cooling), followed by polyfoam for contouring. The support core consists of an 8 inch pocketed coil system for targeted body support.

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.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8/10

130-230 lbs

9.5/10

Above 230 lbs

8/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7.5/10

130-230 lbs

9/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6/10

130-230 lbs

7.5/10

Above 230 lbs

6/10

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 frequently mention that the mattress is good at isolating motion, making it less likely for one partner to disturb the other 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.
  • Comfort and Support: Several users mention that the mattress provides excellent comfort and support, helping alleviate or prevent back and joint pain.
  • 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 Nolah Evolution 15 is a quintessential foam hybrid with a thick comfort system that enhances cushioning along your spine, while a zoned support system prevents your body from sagging uncomfortably. Thanks to these features, we recommend the Evolution 15 if you frequently feel pain or stiffness due to uneven spinal alignment.

How It Performed

The Evolution 15 comes in three firmness levels – medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (8) – which appealed to different sleeper types during our tests. Our side sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds and back sleepers under 130 pounds enjoyed the softest model’s deep contouring for pressure points. The mid-range model was the most versatile, earning its highest ratings from side sleepers who weigh more than 230 pounds, back sleepers who weigh up to 230 pounds, and stomach sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds. Our back sleepers who weigh at least 130 pounds and stomach sleepers over 230 pounds enjoyed the firmest model’s even support.

The three models had varying testing performance depending on the firmness level. Couples who value motion isolation may prefer the softest model, which absorbed most noise and movement transfer in our tests. Meanwhile, we recommend the two firmer models for those who prioritize a responsive surface for sex. All three models excelled in temperature regulation thanks to the breathable coils and cover material.

Construction Breakdown

We found the Euro-top quilted with polyfoam gives the mattress’ surface a plush feel. Next are two layers of polyfoam that contour to your body to relieve pressure. The top polyfoam layer also features a graphite infusion meant to conduct and dissipate heat away from the body. A thinner polyfoam transitional layer completes the comfort system, acting as a buffer between the foam layers and the coils.

The support core consists of pocketed coils, which are zoned to provide extra support to your midsection and prevent excessive sinkage. Additional coils are zoned along the perimeter of the mattress for extra edge support. The support core rests on a polyfoam base layer to prevent shifting. A quilted cover made from proprietary ArcticTex fiber designed for cooling encases the mattress.

The Evolution comes in seven sizes, including a split king. Nolah ships free to customers living in the contiguous U.S. Mattresses come with a 120-night sleep trial to test the mattress, and you can return it anytime after the 30-night break-in period for a full refund. You can also waive the sleep trial for a discount at checkout. Whether or not you opt for the trial, the Evolution 15 is backed by a lifetime warranty.

Best Luxury Mattress

Saatva Classic

9.4 /10

Test Lab Score

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A well-regarded mattress that excels in virtually all categories, the Saatva Classic is our pick for the most comfortable luxury. mattress It uses pocketed coils and innovative micro-coils to create a responsive, supportive sleep surface. As an added luxury, Saatva includes free White Glove delivery with your purchase.

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: It’s hard to pin down who exactly the Saatva Classic is best for since its firmness options make it a match for almost any sleeper. It’s a great fit for people who like the bounce and stability of durable innerspring coils.

Feel: The feel of the mattress is largely dictated by whether you choose the plush soft (3), luxury firm (6) or firm (8) model. Regardless of which you choose, you’ll notice cushioning comfort, moderate bounce, and solid edge support.

What It’s Made Of: The top layers of the Saatva Classic include polyfoam that is supplemented by memory foam lumbar support. A layer of micro-coils adds responsive support, and a tall layer of innerspring coils form the support core.

What We Don’t Like: Many sleepers under 130 pounds find the firmest model to be too hard, while people over 130 pounds may not get enough firmness from the plush model. There is a $99 fee for returns.

Scoring & Reviews

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

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7/10

130-230 lbs

9/10

Above 230 lbs

9/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7/10

130-230 lbs

9/10

Above 230 lbs

9/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6.5/10

130-230 lbs

8.5/10

Above 230 lbs

8.5/10

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 Support: Reviewers frequently cite the comfort and support of the Saatva Classic mattress, noting improvements in sleep quality and reductions in back pain. The availability of different firmness options caters to various preferences and needs.
  • 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

The Saatva Classic will be a comfortable option for anyone who prefers the responsive, springy feel of classic innersprings but also wants some body contouring from their sleep surface. If you tend to sleep hot, the double layer of coils promotes strong airflow to help keep your bed cool at night.

How It Performed

You can choose between three firmness levels for your Classic: soft (3), medium firm (6), or firm (8). You can also choose between two thickness options. This wide range of options ensures most people can find a comfortable feel regardless of body type or general preferences. During our tests, the deep cradling of the soft model felt most comfortable to testers who sleep on their side and weigh up to 130 pounds. The medium firm model offered a balance of cushioning and support that earned high marks from our side and back sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds. The firm model felt most comfortable to testers who weigh over 230 pounds, as well as back and stomach sleepers above 130 pounds.

During tests, we found temperature control was one of the Classic’s biggest strengths. We attribute this to the breathable organic cotton cover and the dual coil design, which allows plenty of steady airflow through the mattress. As a result, we recommend the mattress for people who tend to sleep hot.

Construction Breakdown

The mattress features a Euro-top cushioned with polyfoam and memory foam, resulting in a plush feel on the surface. Beneath is a transitional layer composed of pocketed minicoils that respond to your body while also providing pushback to balance out the contouring foams above. A support core of sturdy hourglass coils made the Classic feel exceptionally stable during our performance tests – especially along the edges.

Saatva is one of the only online mattress brands in the country to offer free White Glove delivery for all customers. This service includes full assembly in a room of your choice and removal of your old mattress at no extra charge. You’ll also receive a 365-night sleep trial and lifetime warranty with your purchase.

Best Mattress for Pressure Relief

Bear Elite Hybrid

8.5 /10

Test Lab Score

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The Bear Elite Hybrid succeeds at sleeping cool and regulating temperature where many competing foam hybrids fall short. A cover woven with phase change material, gel-infused comfort layer, and steady airflow through the coil system ensures the utmost breathability and heat resistance.

The Most Comfortable Mattresses - Best Mattress for Pressure Relief - Bear Elite Hybrid

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: In addition to hot sleepers, the Bear Elite Hybrid is a solid choice for people with shoulder, back, or hip pain. The foam layers contour evenly to promote even alignment and cushion sore spots, while the multi-zone coils provide extra support for heavier areas of your body.

Feel: How plush and adaptive the Bear Elite Hybrid feels depends on which firmness you choose. The medium (5) model conforms very closely, the firm (8) model contours very little with strong pushback around the center, and the medium firm (6) model offers a nice balance with gentle cushioning and sturdy support.

What It’s Made Of: The Elite Hybrid’s comfort system consists of cushy memory foam infused with cooling gel over dense transitional polyfoam. Multi-zone pocketed coils make up the support core with thicker springs positioned beneath your torso and hips for targeted reinforcement. Standard covers contain cooling fibers, and you can upgrade to a cover made from Celliant performance fabric.

What We Don’t Like: Couples may notice motion transfer on the Elite Hybrid if they opt for one of the firmer designs — this can lead to movement-related sleep disruptions. On the other hand, the medium model sinks a bit when weight is applied and many of our testers found this design difficult to move on.

Scoring & Reviews

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

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7.5/10

130-230 lbs

9/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7/10

130-230 lbs

8.5/10

Above 230 lbs

7/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

5.5/10

130-230 lbs

7/10

Above 230 lbs

5.5/10

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.
  • Miscellaneous: Some mixed reviews on edge support and occasional comments about the mattress being too firm or too soft for some users’ preferences.

Best Mattress for Couples

DLX Premier Hybrid

8.9 /10

Test Lab Score

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The DLX Premier Hybrid is sold in six designs, including three split options with one distinct firmness on the left side and another on the right. This makes the mattress a stellar choice for couples with differing preferences on the type of sleep surface that feels best.

The Most Comfortable Mattresses - Best Mattress for Couples - DLX Premier Hybrid

Price

$2,100

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: The Premier Hybrid’s wide range of firmness options ensures most sleepers can find at least one model that feels comfortable regardless of how much they weigh or which sleep position they use. Thick foam layers should deliver optimal motion isolation for couples, while cooling fibers along the surface help hot sleepers maintain a good temperature for sleep.

Feel: The Premier Hybrid’s feel depends on which firmness you choose. The medium soft (4) model contours closely to cradle your body, the medium firm (6) offers gentle cushioning without too much hug, and the firm (8) feels flat and supportive beneath your weight. You can also opt for a split design that integrates any two of these firmness levels.

What It’s Made Of: The hybrid’s comfort system begins with viscose fibers quilted to the bottom of the cover, followed by three individual foam layers. Pocketed coils and high-density base foam make up the bed’s support system.

What We Don’t Like: Due to the thick foam layers, the Premier Hybrid produces a fair amount of off-gassing odor after it’s removed from its delivery box. The smells, while temporary, can be overpowering for the first few nights.

Scoring Breakdown

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

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8.5/10

130-230 lbs

9/10

Above 230 lbs

8/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8/10

130-230 lbs

8.5/10

Above 230 lbs

9/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7/10

130-230 lbs

8.5/10

Above 230 lbs

8/10

Full Details

Picking out a mattress with your partner can be difficult if your firmness preferences differ from theirs. DLX Mattress eases this process with the Premier Hybrid, a foam-over-coil mattress available in six firmness configurations. You can opt for a standard medium soft (4), medium firm (6), or firm (8) design. Alternatively, you can arrange for the mattress to be split down the middle with a different firmness level on each side.

How It Performs

Most side sleepers on our testing team enjoyed the deep contouring and cushioning of the medium soft Premier Hybrid. This design hugs your body closely, so side sleepers get the extra padding they need for their shoulders and hips. That said, some of our side sleepers over 230 pounds needed more support and preferred the medium firm model. This was also true of our back and stomach sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds. If you’re looking for maximum reinforcement, the firm design should meet your needs.

Since the Premier Hybrid contains 4 inches of foam cushioning, the mattress isolates motion better than most competing hybrids. The viscose fiber layer also does a good job of keeping the surface cool — most testers noticed minimal heat retention, even on the softer models.

Construction Breakdown

The Premier Hybrid’s comfort system consists of viscose fiber batting sewn to the bottom of the cover, followed by three foam layers. Each foam layer is progressively firmer and denser, so you get some nice cushioning near the surface and extra pushback to keep your body on an even plane. Pocketed coils in the support core are reinforced with high-density base foam, resulting in excellent overall stability — though the firm model feels sturdiest. Thicker coils along the perimeter help reduce sinkage when you sleep close to the edges or get in and out of bed.

The Premier Hybrid is competitively priced and DLX Mattress offers complimentary shipping to customers in the contiguous U.S. The company’s sleep trial spans 120 nights in length. Those who ultimately decide to keep their mattress also receive a lifetime warranty covering structural defects as long as they retain original ownership.

Best Mattress for Motion Isolation

Leesa Sapira Hybrid

8.9 /10

Test Lab Score

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Comfortable is subjective, but most couples 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.

The Most Comfortable Mattresses - Best Mattress for Motion Isolation - Leesa Sapira Hybrid

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: The Leesa Sapira Hybrid has strong motion isolation and edge support, so it’s a solid choice for those who are easily bothered by their partner’s movements or sometimes find themselves at the edge of the bed. It’s best suited for side and back sleepers weighing less than 230 pounds.

Feel: The Leesa has a bouncy feel which makes 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: It’s only available as a medium firm option, which works well for a variety of couples but may be too firm or soft for heavier or lighter sleepers. It does transfer some movement across the bed, and it has a relatively high starting price point.

Scoring & Reviews

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

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8/10

130-230 lbs

9.5/10

Above 230 lbs

8/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7.5/10

130-230 lbs

9/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6/10

130-230 lbs

7.5/10

Above 230 lbs

6/10

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: Several users appreciate that the mattress does not retain excessive heat, making it comfortable for those who tend to sleep hot.
  • Durability and Longevity: Positive comments on how the mattress maintains its shape and comfort over several years without sagging or indentations.
  • Motion Isolation: Couples often point out the mattress’s ability to minimize motion transfer, allowing partners to move without disturbing each other.
  • 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

If you share the bed with a sleep partner who has different firmness preferences, you should consider a mattress that falls in the middle of the firmness spectrum. The Leesa Sapira Hybrid is one such mattress. With a medium firm (6) feel and thick foam layers over sturdy coils, this mattress should appeal to people across a range of sleep preferences and sleep positions.

How It Performed

During our tests, the Sapira Hybrid earned high marks from our side sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds and our back and stomach sleepers weighing less than 130 pounds. These findings are consistent with other medium firm foam hybrids we’ve tested. Side sleepers enjoy the close yet even contouring and pressure relief in sensitive areas along the spine. Meanwhile, back and stomach sleepers can lie comfortably without sinking too deeply around the midsection.

Steady airflow through the comfort and support systems helped the Sapira Hybrid excel during our temperature control tests, as did the open-cell foam layers and breathable cover. The responsiveness should provide enough bounce for sex, but the foam layers absorbed a good deal of movement when we tested the mattress for motion isolation.

Construction Breakdown

The Sapira Hybrid’s topmost polyfoam layer is ventilated with small holes to promote airflow near the surface. Subsequent memory foam and transitional polyfoam layers provide additional cushioning, but these materials are denser to minimize sinkage beneath your torso and hips. All three layers have an open-cell composition, so none should trap excessive amounts of heat.

The support core contains pocketed coils over dense base polyfoam. Perimeter coils are thicker to push back against your weight and reduce sinkage along the edges. This allows you and your partner to use the entire mattress surface rather than feeling confined to the middle. A stretch-polyester cover with Leesa’s signature stripe design encases the entire mattress.

The Sapira Hybrid’s sticker price is slightly below average compared to other hybrids, and Leesa offers free shipping to all 50 states. You’ll also receive two complimentary pillows with your purchase. The mattress comes with a 100-night trial period, and Leesa further backs it with a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers

Layla Memory Foam Mattress

8.1 /10

Test Lab Score

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If you can’t settle on a firmness preference, why not try it both ways? The Layla Memory Foam is infused with copper gel for cooling and pressure relief and offers a medium-soft and a firm side in a flippable design that’s surprisingly easy to manage, as it’s lighter than other reversible mattresses.

The Most Comfortable Mattresses - Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers - Layla Memory Foam Mattress

Price

$949

Mattress Type

Foam

Firmness Options

Medium Soft (4), Firm (7)

Trial Period

120 nights (4 week minimum)

Our Verdict

Who It’s Best For: The flippable Layla is ideal for people who prefer close conforming from their sleep surface or firm support, as well as those whose firmness preferences fluctuate from night to night. Couples should also find that the mattress isolates motion exceptionally well.

Feel: One side of the Layla is medium soft (4) with thick foam layers that hug the body closely. On the other side, thinner foam layers produce a firm (7) feel with minimal contouring.

What It’s Made Of: Since the mattress is reversible, the top and bottom sides each feature a comfort system. The medium soft side contains thick layers of memory foam and transitional polyfoam, while the firm side consists of a single memory foam layer. A shared support core of high-density polyfoam rests between the comfort systems.

What We Don’t Like: Edge support is fairly weak on both sides of the Layla, so getting in and out of bed may result in deep sinkage. We also noticed strong off-gassing odor for the first few days after the mattress was unboxed.

Scoring & Reviews

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

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7.5/10

130-230 lbs

9/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7/10

130-230 lbs

8.5/10

Above 230 lbs

7/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

5.5/10

130-230 lbs

7/10

Above 230 lbs

5.5/10

We performed a meta-analysis on 7558 validated customer reviews of the Layla Memory Foam Mattress. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:

  • Dual Firmness Options: The Layla Memory Foam Mattress offers both soft and firm sides, allowing users to choose according to their comfort preferences, which is highly appreciated for accommodating different sleeping styles.
  • Comfort and Support: Many reviewers have noted the mattress provides exceptional comfort, helping alleviate back pain and improving overall sleep quality. The soft side is often described as cloud-like, while the firm side offers adequate support without being too hard.
  • Quality and Durability: Users report that the mattress maintains its shape and comfort over time, with no significant sagging or indentations, even after several years of use, indicating good durability.
  • Temperature Regulation: The mattress is generally reviewed as doing a good job of regulating temperature, preventing overheating during sleep, which is a common issue with many memory foam mattresses.
  • Ease of Setup: Customers appreciate the ease with which the mattress can be set up. It is delivered in a box and expands quickly once unpacked, making it convenient for immediate use.
  • Customer Service: Layla’s customer service receives high praise for being responsive and helpful, aiding customers with issues ranging from delivery to product inquiries and returns.

Full Details

The Layla Mattress is a versatile model featuring a reversible design with two distinct feels. Sleepers can choose between the closely contouring medium soft (4) side or a more supportive firm (7) side.

How It Performed

Thanks to the two different feels, the Layla performed well across many sleeping positions and weight groups. Our testing team found the softer surface great for side sleepers, those under 130 pounds, and people with pain in their joints. Meanwhile, the firmer side ranked highly among back and stomach sleepers on our team, especially those between 130 and 230 pounds.

Foam mattresses are prone to heat retention, but the Layla slept quite cool compared to many other foam models we’ve evaluated with heat-mapping tests. Both sides ranked above average in temperature regulation, but the firm side performed particularly well in this area. We attribute this to the firmer feel and less sinkage, which limits heat-trapping. Copper and gel infusions are also designed to keep the foams cooler. Couples may appreciate the softer side for its strong motion isolation. We noticed that the thicker comfort layers on this side absorbed most movement transfer, reducing sleep disruptions for co-sleepers.

Construction Breakdown

The softer side starts with a 3-inch layer of copper- and gel-infused memory foam. This layer deeply contoured to the body during our tests, which relieved pressure buildup in the joints and lower back. Underneath is a 2-inch polyfoam transitional layer that is zoned to support the midsection and prevent excessive sinkage. We found this layer also evenly distributed weight to help you maintain healthy spinal alignment.

On the firm side is a thinner comfort layer made from the same copper- and gel-infused memory foam. The shared support core is composed of a 4.5-inch layer of high-density polyfoam. This layer helps prevent you from sinking too deeply into the mattress. A cover made from a stretch blend of polyester, rayon, viscose, and poly-lycra encases the mattress.

Layla ships free to the contiguous U.S., and mattress purchases are backed by a 120-night sleep trial. Purchases also come with a lifetime warranty covering structural defects.

Best Mattress for Hot Sleepers

Emma Hybrid Cooling Elite

8.6 /10

Test Lab Score

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Emma’s Hybrid Cooling Elite is an excellent choice for side and back sleepers, couples, and people who run hot in bed. Our tests show this mattress is very balanced with gentle cushioning on the surface and sturdy support from the zoned coil system.

The Most Comfortable Mattresses - Best Mattress for Hot Sleepers - Emma Hybrid Cooling Elite

Price

$929

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6)

Trial Period

365 nights (4-week try-out request)

Our Verdict

Who It’s Best For: As a medium firm (6) foam hybrid, the Hybrid Cooling Elite is a great match for side sleepers who weigh at least 130 pounds and back and stomach sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds. Steady airflow throughout the coils and a cooling graphite gel infusion in the top foam layer also make the mattress suitable for hot sleepers.

Feel: Due to the thick foam layers, the Hybrid Cooling Elite feels plusher and more adaptive than many other hybrids on the market today. However, the mattress is also quite stable. The zoned coils provide targeted support for heavier areas of the body, resulting in less sink around the midsection and gentler cradling for the head and legs. 

What It’s Made Of: Four individual layers make up the comfort system, beginning with graphite-infused memory foam intended to reduce heat buildup on the surface. Multi-zone coils and dense base foam provide excellent overall support for the mattress. At 14 inches thick, this is considered a high-profile model.

What We Don’t Like: The Hybrid Cooling Elite produces a noticeable off-gassing odor after it’s unboxed — this comes from the foam layers. These smells eventually dissipate, but may be overwhelming during the first few nights. Additionally, some of our testers over 230 pounds struggled to move on the mattress without feeling stuck.

Scoring Breakdown

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

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7.5/10

130-230 lbs

9/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7/10

130-230 lbs

8.5/10

Above 230 lbs

7/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

5.5/10

130-230 lbs

7/10

Above 230 lbs

5.5/10

Full Details

If you’re a hot sleeper, a mattress that promotes breathability and thermoregulation control is key for a comfortable night’s rest. The Emma Hybrid Cooling Elite earns its name thanks to a combination of open-cell foams in the comfort system and steady airflow throughout the pocketed coil support core. A graphite infusion in the top layer dissipates heat from the surface, adding to the temperature-neutral design.

How It Performs

The Hybrid Cooling Elite was a big hit among our testing team, earning its most favorable ratings from side sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds, back sleepers up to 230 pounds, and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds. A balance of even cushioning and sturdy zoned support gives the mattress a medium firm (6) feel, and our tests have shown time and again this firmness level appeals to a wide range of sleeper types.

The mattress earned high marks for motion isolation and pressure relief, two testing categories where hybrids frequently fall short. We’ve attributed strong performance in both areas to the thick foam layers that make up the comfort system. At the same time, these foams may hinder movement across the surface — especially for those who weigh more than 230 pounds — and initial off-gassing odor can be unpleasant for the first few nights.

Construction Breakdown

The Hybrid Cooling Elite contains four comfort layers, beginning with graphite-infused polyfoam to give the surface an invitingly plush feel. Underlying polyfoam and memory foam layers are a bit denser to prevent your body from sinking too deeply, but these materials also provide deep cushioning for the shoulders, hips, and other areas prone to pressure buildup. Transitional polyfoam forms a barrier between you and the support core.

The hybrid’s pocketed coils are zoned, meaning thicker springs are positioned beneath your midsection — this helps ensure extra reinforcement for heavier areas of your body and a gentler feel elsewhere. High-density base foam completes the hybrid design, and the mattress is encased in a knit polyester cover.

The Hybrid Cooling Elite carries an affordable price-point compared to the average hybrid model and standard shipping is free of charge for customers in the contiguous U.S. A generous yearlong sleep trial gives you plenty of time to test out the mattress and decide whether to return it for a refund or keep it. If you choose the latter, Emma backs your purchase with a lifetime warranty that covers workmanship defects as long as you retain original ownership.

Best Overall

Helix Midnight Luxe

9.3 /10

Test Lab Score

20% off with code: FALLSALE20

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A pillow-top hybrid that sleeps exceptionally cool.

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Best Value

Brooklyn Bedding Essential

7.8 /10

Test Lab Score

25% off sitewide with code: FALL25

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An affordable foam hybrid with sturdy support and plenty of bounce.

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The Most Comfortable Mattresses - Best Value - Brooklyn Bedding Essential

Best for Back Pain

WinkBed

8.9 /10

Test Lab Score

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A popular hybrid that’s plush and supportive for back pain relief, with a firmness option for every body type.

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Best for Side Sleepers

Nolah Evolution 15

8.8 /10

Test Lab Score

35% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase

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A hybrid mattress with zoned support where side sleepers need it most.

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Best Luxury

Saatva Classic

9.4 /10

Test Lab Score

15% off orders of $1,000 or more

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Two layers of coils spur the performance of this well-built luxury hybrid.

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Best for Pressure Relief

Bear Elite Hybrid

8.5 /10

Test Lab Score

35% off + free pillows with code: SF35

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A cool, cushy foam hybrid that cradles the body and reduces pressure buildup.

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The Most Comfortable Mattresses - Best for Pressure Relief - Bear Elite Hybrid

Best for Couples

DLX Premier Hybrid

8.9 /10

Test Lab Score

Extra $100 off with code: SLEEP

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A luxe foam hybrid with a wide range of firmness options and combinations.

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The Most Comfortable Mattresses - Best for Couples - DLX Premier Hybrid

Best Motion Isolation

Leesa Sapira Hybrid

8.9 /10

Test Lab Score

Up to 20% off mattresses + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase

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A responsive foam hybrid with moderate contouring and good motion isolation for couples.

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Best for Combination Sleepers

Layla Memory Foam Mattress

8.1 /10

Test Lab Score

Up to $200 off mattresses + 2 free pillows

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A flippable, copper memory foam mattress for hip pain relief: medium-soft on one side, firm on the other.

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The Most Comfortable Mattresses - Best for Combination Sleepers - Layla Memory Foam Mattress

Best for Hot Sleepers

Emma Hybrid Cooling Elite

8.6 /10

Test Lab Score

Up to 55% off with code: “SF5” at Emma

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A comfy foam hybrid with plush foam layers and sturdy, multi-zone coils.

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The Most Comfortable Mattresses - Best for Hot Sleepers - Emma Hybrid Cooling Elite

Watch Video: We Tested the Best Mattresses of 2024 – Here Are Our Favorites

Watch the video below to get a more in-depth look at our top picks for most comfortable mattress.

Data-Driven Results You Can Trust

At the Sleep Foundation Test Lab, we’ve tried hundreds of mattresses personally and put each one to the test during performance trials. On our team, we have members with different weights and sleep preferences, which helps us gain a thorough understanding of how a particular mattress will feel for multiple types of people. 

For this review, we focused on the characteristics that make a mattress comfortable and chose models that our team members ranked highly in categories like support, pressure relief, temperature control, and motion isolation.

Which Mattress Types Are Most Comfortable?

There are a huge number of mattresses available today, which can make choosing one difficult. Before settling on a model, it’s good to understand mattress constructions so that you can choose the mattress type that’s most comfortable for your individual needs, and steer clear of constructions that don’t suit your preferences. 

A mattress’ type is determined by two main parts of its construction:

  1. The comfort system: the top layers of the bed that you sleep on and feel directly
  2. The support core: the base section of the bed that supports your body as you sleep

Foam

If you’re tired of tossing and turning to get comfortable, or you wake up every time your partner moves in bed, then foam beds are for you.

Foam mattresses have support cores and comfort systems made entirely from foam. You can find models with polyfoam, memory foam, or layers of both. They’re known for providing excellent pressure relief and motion isolation. Foam mattresses tend to retain more heat than other mattress types and they can have a chemical-like smell at first.

When you lie on a foam bed, the surface adapts to your body’s shape to cushion impact zones and absorb movement. Some softer foam beds can give you a hugging sensation and the feeling that you’re sleeping “in” rather than “on” the mattress. 

Hybrid

If you want a blend of strong support and cushioning, a variety of options, or you want to find the perfect combination for your needs, then you’ll likely find what you’re looking for in a hybrid bed.

Hybrids have some of the most versatile mattress constructions. Typically, a hybrid has a support core made from pocketed coils. Some hybrids have zones built into their cores for target support on different areas of the body,  or their edges are reinforced with stronger coils for more structure. 

Hybrid comfort systems vary widely and can feature a number of materials including polyfoam, memory foam, latex, wool, and microfiber. Because there are so many material combinations, you can find hybrids that fit nearly every sleeper’s firmness and cushioning preferences. They often sleep cool and generally have better edge support than foam mattresses. Since they require multiple material types and have complex constructions, hybrids often cost more than foam or basic innerspring mattresses do. 

Innerspring

If you want a really supportive and bouncy bed without too much cushioning or frills, then you’re probably looking for an innerspring bed.

Innerspring is a term that’s often used interchangeably with hybrid. Like hybrids, traditional innerspring mattresses have coil support cores that provide pushback and responsiveness. Basic innersprings may have a thin layer on top of the support core to prevent you from feeling the springs. More complex constructions may have pillow-tops or Euro-tops that add more cushioning to enhance comfort or pressure relief. 

Innersprings with simple constructions can be quite affordable, while those with multi-layer comfort systems may cost significantly more. Hot sleepers generally like how well innersprings regulate temperature, and those who like a traditionally bouncy sleep surface prefer innersprings over foam mattresses. 

Latex

If you’re looking for strong, well-rounded performance and a bouncier feel that doesn’t hug too close to your body, then latex beds are right up your alley. 

While shopping, you may see all-latex beds that have both comfort systems and support cores made from latex, as well as hybrids that feature latex in their comfort systems. Latex is a naturally springy material, and beds that contain it often feel bouncy and resilient. It doesn’t retain heat and sleeps cooler than foam and other pressure-relieving materials.

The type of tree that produces rubber also makes latex. It can be sustainably grown and harvested and is a worthwhile choice for people looking for an environmentally friendly option. Because it’s a natural material, latex can be fairly expensive. However, it’s quite durable, and many latex mattresses last longer than other mattress types. 

Airbed

If you’re not sure what you need from a bed, your needs change often, or you share a bed with your partner and can’t agree on what feels right, then airbeds should be on your radar. 

Airbeds have a unique support core that inflates and deflates with a remote-controlled motor. This allows you to choose your mattress’ firmness level and change it whenever you want. They’re highly versatile and are excellent for couples with different preferences, as each partner can choose a firmness for their own side of the bed. 

Most airbeds have some type of cover system over top of the air chambers. Materials can include foam, latex, microfiber, and wool. They’re generally cool and available with a wide range of features. The catch with airbeds is usually noise and cost – they’re far more expensive than other mattress types and the motors can be loud.

What to Consider When Shopping for a Comfortable Mattress

We’ll make mattress shopping easier by helping you learn what you need from a bed before starting your research. 

Choosing the Right Firmness for You

We measure mattress firmness on a scale from 1 to 10. Lower numbers represent softer mattresses while higher numbers are firmer. The right firmness level is largely dependent on your weight, preferences, and favorite sleeping position. A firmness level that’s appropriate for each of these will feel both supportive and comfortable. 

How Sleeping Position and Body Type Play a Role

Side, back, and stomach sleepers typically prefer different firmness levels from one another, though there is some overlap. Stomach sleepers need a firmer (6 to 9), even sleep surface that doesn’t allow their midsections to sink into a mattress. Back sleepers most often like a medium (5) to firm (8) mattress that has both cushioning and strong support. Side sleepers prefer a soft (3) to medium firm (6) mattress that prevents pressure points from building beneath the hips and shoulders. 

Your body weight also affects which firmness level you should pick. Sleepers who weigh more than 230 pounds typically need stronger support to keep their spines evenly aligned, while sleepers under 130 need a softer surface. Sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds often do best on a mid-range firmness level. 

We’ve put together a quick breakdown of our recommendations for firmness levels based on your body weight and sleeping position here:

WeightSide SleepersBack SleepersStomach Sleepers
Less than 130 lbs.Soft (3) to Medium (5)Soft (3) to Medium (5)Medium Soft (4) to Medium Firm (6)
130 to 230 lbs.Medium Soft (4) to Medium (5)Medium (5) to Firm (7)Medium (5) to Firm (7)
More than 230 lbs.Medium Firm (6) to Firm (7)Firm (7, 8) to Extra Firm (9)Firm (7, 8) to Extra Firm (9)

“Back and stomach sleepers may benefit from a firmer mattress, as extra support can feel more comfortable in these positions. Side sleepers may prefer a mattress that has softness. It’s also important for side sleepers to find an option that ensures the head and neck are in alignment. Whatever is the most comfortable for you to sleep with is worth the investment.”

Sarah Silverman, Psy.D., a licensed psychologist and holistic sleep wellness consultant who treats patients in New York and Florida.

What Do You Need From Your Bed?

The right mattress should provide you with support and cushioning that matches your weight and sleeping position. Once you’ve found a firmness level that works for your needs, consider what you want from a mattress beyond support, like temperature control or pressure relief.  

Spinal Alignment

Improper spinal alignment can lead to acute and chronic pain, so it’s important to choose a mattress that keeps your spine evenly supported from head to toe. To find a mattress with enough spinal support, look for one that’s the right firmness level for your weight and sleeping position. 

Think of it this way: When you’re laying in bed, you should be able to imagine a straight, even line over your spine from your head to your toes. Any dips or curves in your spine can result in discomfort. 

Pressure Relief

Pressure relief often means the difference between a full night’s sleep and tossing and turning through the night to get comfortable. Some sleepers feel intense pressure beneath their hips, shoulders, lower back, or joints. Health conditions like arthritis or fibromyalgia can cause pressure point discomfort, but you can also experience pressure points if you sleep on a mattress that doesn’t have enough cushioning. To combat this, choose a mattress with an appropriate firmness level and materials that contour alongside your body while evenly dispersing your weight, like foam or latex. 

Quality and Durability

When a mattress begins to wear out, it can start to lose support. It’s important to replace your mattress when it shows signs of wear, but you can get a few extra years by buying a bed made with high-quality materials. A well-made mattress also typically gives you better sleep night after night than one with low-end materials. 

Size and Height

Make sure to purchase a mattress that’s the right size for your needs, especially if you sleep with a partner. Your bed’s height can make a difference in overall comfort too, particularly if you have mobility limitations and have a tough time getting in and out of bed. 

Breathability

If you’re a hot sleeper or live somewhere with a warm climate, a breathable bed can make a huge difference. Hybrid and latex models tend to sleep cooler than foam mattresses do because they let air move freely through the mattress rather than trapping it. If you prefer the feel of foam, look for models with gel or copper infusions designed to decrease heat buildup. 

Do You Share a Bed?

Edge support and motion isolation are two of the most important factors for people who share a bed, whether with dogs, kids, or a partner. Strong perimeter support allows you to spread out and sleep comfortably up to the edge of the bed, while motion isolation lets you move on your side of the bed without disturbing your partner. 

Sleep Trials, Returns, and Warranties

Many mattress manufacturers allow you to return your bed for a different firmness level or a refund if you do so within the company’s trial window. A 90-day trial period is often seen as the industry standard, but some companies offer longer trial windows. Some charge for returns, while others include free returns with the trial. Warranties may be pro-rated or cover a mattress entirely if it has a defect. Reading over the fine print and checking existing customer reviews can help you get a realistic sense of how well a company’s policies are put into practice. 

If comfort is your top priority, look for mattress manufacturers with flexible policies that let you swap mattress models or materials until you find the right one.

Tips for Making Your Bed More Comfortable

Here are a few of our tips to make your bed more comfortable by enhancing your sleep environment with fresh bedding, support accessories, and proper long-term care. 

Invest in Cozy Bedding

Make sure you have the right bedding for your needs, since your pillows and sheets are arguably just as important as your mattress when it comes to comfort. Even if you have the perfect mattress, scratchy sheets or a flat pillow can make your bed uncomfortable and be distracting while you sleep. 

Sheets come in a variety of different options, so it’s important to find a set that feels comfortable on your skin and keeps you at the right temperature as you sleep.

Pillows support your head and neck throughout the night, so it’s important to find one that sets you up to sleep comfortably. Side, back, and stomach sleepers all need their necks held at different heights to maintain spinal alignment and get enough support. 

Add a Mattress Topper or Pad

If your mattress doesn’t feel quite right, you can change your bed’s feel easily and affordably by adding a mattress topper or pad. Toppers typically measure 2 to 4 inches thick and can be made out of a variety of materials that each have distinct firmness levels and feels. 

Pads are thinner, usually 1 to 2 inches thick, and designed to protect your mattress while slightly altering its feel. Both pads and toppers can help extend your bed’s lifespan and make your mattress feel softer or firmer.

Care for Your Mattress Properly

Treating your mattress with care can go a long way toward increasing your comfort long-term. Some models include washable covers, but you can also use a protector to safeguard against stains and fabric wear and tear. While newer mattresses aren’t typically designed to be flipped, you can usually rotate them 180 degrees to help prevent premature sagging.

Dive Deeper – In-Depth Mattress Guides

If you’re looking to expand your search beyond the beds featured here, you can narrow down your search by reading our recommendations sorted by mattress feel.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most comfortable mattress for back pain?

The most comfortable mattress for back pain is one that keeps your spine completely supported from head to toe. If your mattress isn’t supportive enough it can cause your spine to bend, resulting in pain. In addition to strong support, the most comfortable mattress for back pain will also have enough cushioning to prevent stress and pressure in your lower back.

What is the most comfortable mattress for side sleepers?

Most side sleepers prefer a mattress on the softer side that has plenty of pressure relief. Materials like foam and latex contour with your body to absorb impact and decrease pressure build up. Zoned support systems are also excellent for side sleepers, as they increase and decrease pushback on your body strategically so that sleepers get enough support without having to use an uncomfortably firm mattress.

What makes a mattress comfortable?

What makes a mattress comfortable is largely related to personal preference, but generally speaking, the most critical factor is getting enough support for your body weight and sleeping position. Once you have a baseline of support, you can consider what else will make your mattress comfortable for you – whether that’s temperature control, pressure relief, or extra support at the edges.

How can you make your mattress more comfortable?

You can make your mattress more comfortable by using a mattress pad that changes the firmness level, by adding cooling features, or by simply buying new bedding. In order to make your sleep environment better, first identify what is making it uncomfortable for you. You can alter a mattress’ feel easily by adding a topper that makes your bed better at whatever it is you lack, whether that’s spinal support, pressure relief, or motion isolation.

How much does a mattress cost?

Mattress costs differ depending on the type and size you choose but typically budget mattresses average $250 to $1,000, mid-range models cost $500 to $1,500, and high-end luxury beds run between $1,200 and $3,000 or more. Innerspring and foam mattresses are typically more affordable than latex and hybrid mattresses.

Still have questions?

Our product experts have extensive experience testing just about every sleep product on the market.

Send an email to [email protected] with your questions and we’ll help you find exactly what you’re looking for.

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