Best Extra-Firm Mattress

Written by Logan Block, Mattress Reviewer

Our Methodology

Our Certified Sleep Science Coaches have reviewed more than 300 mattresses in our lab, testing each one on its materials, comfort, cooling, support, and other categories.
Learn more

In This Article

We’ve rounded up our top picks for the best extra-firm mattresses and included insight from the testers in our lab. You can rest easy that if it’s on this list, we’ve personally tested it, slept on it, and stand by its recommendation.

»

While many sleepers love soft or medium-firm mattresses, others need or want an extra-firm bed to get their beauty rest. It can be quite the feat to try to find the best extra-firm mattress with so many options out there, but don’t worry — Sleepopolis is here to help.

We’ve done all the work for you and compiled our top picks for the best extra-firm mattresses below that will work for a variety of sleepers. Each of these models has been tested in our mattress lab for a number of categories, including firmness, edge support, and materials.

Our Top Pick for Extra-Firm Mattresses

The Plank Firm earned the top spot on this list because it has two sides: firm and ultra firm. We think it’s great for stomach sleepers who need extra support in their hips. Likewise, it’s ideal for back sleepers wanting additional firm support.

Best Extra-Firm Mattresses 2024

• Plank Firm – Best Overall Extra-Firm Mattress
• Helix Dawn – Best Value Extra-Firm Mattress
• Titan Plus – Best Extra-Firm Mattress for Heavy Sleepers
• WinkBeds – Best Pillow Top Extra-Firm Mattress
• Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Luxury Extra-Firm Mattress
• Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Best Extra-Firm Hybrid Mattress
• Nolah Evolution – Best Extra-Firm Mattress for Back Sleepers
• Saatva – Best Extra-Firm Innerspring Mattress
• Birch Natural – Best Extra-Firm Latex Mattress

Compare Mattresses for Platform Beds

Best Extra-Firm Mattresses Video Review

Plank Firm – Best Overall Extra-Firm Mattress

Expert Opinion 

We chose the Plank Firm mattress as the best extra-firm mattress overall because it is a flippable mattress with a firm side and an ultra firm side. The extra-firm side makes you feel like you’re sleeping on a comfy plank (hence the name). We felt especially cozy sleeping on our stomachs on this all-foam bed. There isn’t a lot of sinkage, and it scores an 8.5 on our firmness scale where 1 is the softest and 10 is the firmest. The firm side is still firm but has some extra cushioning to make it a touch softer

What our tester says: “I really like that the Plank Firm is a flippable mattress with two firmness options. This makes it feel like you’re getting two beds for the price of one. I also think this is a great choice for anyone who loves a firm feel — if you’re looking for the firmest mattress out there, the ultra-firm side of the Plank is the way to go.”- Bridget Chapman, senior product editor

Who the Plank Firm Is Best For 

• Back sleepers: The firmness level can help these sleepers keep their spine aligned, which is especially beneficial for those who suffer from back pain.
• Stomach sleepers: The mattress offers the right amount of support to align the hips and shoulders of these sleepers, creating a dreamy sleep experience.
• Couples: The extra-firm side of the Plank mattress creates a perfect mixture of bounce and responsiveness for amorous activities. The Plank Firm also tested well for motion isolation and edge support. 

Who Should Avoid the Plank Firm 

• Side sleepers: Both sides of the Plank will likely be too firm for these sleepers and might end up causing some pain in pressure points like the hips or shoulders.
• Hot sleepers: While you can buy an optional cooling panel, those who choose not to add this $100 to $150 extra expense might feel warm in bed.

Does the Plank Firm sound like the best extra-firm mattress you need? Get our best deal here or learn more in our full Plank Firm mattress review. 

Helix Dawn – Best Value Extra-Firm Mattress

Expert Opinion

The Helix Dawn is the firmest model offered by Helix Sleep, a popular online mattress and bedding company. It is one of six options in the Helix standard line and features multiple layers of supportive foam on top of individually wrapped coils. You also have the option to upgrade to the Helix Dawn Luxe, which features additional cooling, support, and a pillow top. We found the Helix Dawn mattress to be super comfortable while stomach sleeping since it helped prevent our hips from sinking into the bed.

What our tester says: “No matter which model you choose, the Helix Dawn really delivers on lumbar support. If you’re looking for extra plushness and cooling components, I’d upgrade to the Luxe version.” – Logan Block, former Sleepopolis director of content and mattress tester

Who the Helix Dawn Is Best For

• Stomach sleepers: Many stomach sleepers should appreciate how the mattress helps with healthy sleep posture by promoting spinal alignment.
• Couples: We found this mattress to have excellent responsiveness and bounce for couples, along with good cooling abilities and edge support.
• Heavy sleepers: The Helix Dawn offers solid support for a lot of sleepers who are more than 250 pounds. It will likely feel closer to a medium-firm bed to these folks.

Who Should Avoid the Helix Dawn

• Side sleepers with hip pain: We found this mattress to create too much pressure around the hips, which could create some discomfort.
• Light sleepers: The Helix Dawn models did not test great for isolating motion, so people who wake up at every movement from their partner may want to pick a different option.

If either Helix Dawn models sound appealing, check out our full Helix Dawn review and click here to snag the best deal.

Titan Plus – Best Extra-Firm Mattress for Heavy Sleepers

Expert Opinion

Made with plus-size people in mind, the Titan Plus features quilted gel memory foam, high-density foam, and up to 961 individually encased TitanCaliber coils. This all brings heavier folks support, comfort, and pressure relief where they need it. The Titan Plus comes in at a 7.5 on the firmness scale (where 1 is the softest and 10 is the firmest), so it’s a truly firm mattress. 

What our tester says: “Heavier people with back problems will likely enjoy the lower body alignment the Titan Plus provides. Couples will find a lot to love with the Titan Plus because of its motion isolation and edge support. Stomach sleepers usually need hip support, which the Titan Plus provides nicely.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor

Who the Titan Plus Is Best For

• Heavy sleepers: Heavy sleepers will get the deep compression support and durability they need with this mattress. We especially think it’s a great fit for heavy back and stomach sleepers. 
• Couples: The low motion transfer means you shouldn’t be disturbed by your partner turning and tossing at night and vice versa.
• Stomach sleepers: The firm support will help keep these sleepers’ hips and shoulders aligned for a perfect straight spinal alignment.

Who Should Avoid the Titan Plus

• Those wanting sinkage: If you’re looking for a mattress with a classic memory foam feel, this probably isn’t the one for you.
• Side sleepers: If you only sleep on your side, we recommend finding a softer mattress to get better contouring and pressure relief. 

If you’re a heavyweight sleeper (meaning you weigh 250 pounds or more) who thinks the Titan Plus will give you the perfect support, check out our full review of the mattress and click here to get the best deal.

WinkBeds – Best Extra-Firm Pillow Top Mattress

Expert Opinion

The WinkBed measures 14 inches from base to cover. It’s constructed with a Tencel cover, pillow top comfort layer, and mattress coil support layer. All these materials make it plush, supportive, and cooling. It comes in three different firmness levels, along with a Plus model for heavier folks, and we recommend those after an extra-firm feel go for the Firmer model. 

What our tester says: “One of my favorite things about the WinkBed is its durability. This is a high-quality mattress that should really stand the test of time. This is great news for any sleeper, but especially nice for heavy people and couples.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor

Who the WinkBed Is Best For

• Seniors: With the feel of a traditional innerspring mattress, the WinkBed is great for seniors who not only want that classic feel, but also need extra back support.
• Hot sleepers: The mattress’ pocketed coil layer will help keep you cool by allowing air to flow through the bed. 
• Back and stomach sleepers: The mattress is excellent for these sleepers. They should feel propped up on top of the bed with an ideal mix of support and cushioning, which will help them maintain healthy sleep posture.

Who Should Avoid the WinkBed

• Budget shoppers: While the WinkBed is usually on sale, it does feature high-quality materials and comes with a luxury price tag. Be sure to use our coupons to get the best deal though. 
• Side sleepers: If you only sleep on your side, we recommend considering a softer mattress or the Softer model of the WinkBed.

If you’re convinced that the WinkBed offers the best firmness with a superb pillow top option, read our full WinkBed mattress review and get our best WinkBeds deal here.

Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Luxury Extra-Firm Mattress

Expert Opinion

The Elite Hybrid is Bear’s “ultra-luxurious” mattress model and comes in three different firmness levels. We’d recommend sleepers wanting an extra-firm feel check out the Firm option. The Elite Hybrid features a traditional mattress feel, plus advanced cooling and support technology. We thought the mattress’s layers of foam and its coil system with zoned support provided an excellent blend of comfort and support. 

What our tester says: “I honestly like a lot about the Bear Elite Hybrid mattress — starting with how you can choose your firmness level. I tested out the middle level (Medium), and I think it’s great that each sleeper can pick what option works best for them.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor

Who the Bear Elite Hybrid Is Best For

• All sleeping positions: Since this bed comes in three different firmness levels, it can work for all sleeping positions. We specifically think the Firm model will provide the pressure relief and support that back and stomach sleepers need.
• Couples: The Bear Elite Hybrid is very responsive, cooling, and supportive for couples sharing the bed. It also did a good job isolating motion — another major perk for couples. 
• Hot sleepers: The mattress’ Phase Change Material cover and copper-infused foam make the mattress breathable and cool for these sleepers.

Who Should Avoid the Bear Elite Hybrid

• Budget shoppers: If you’re looking for a budget-friendly mattress, you may want to check out some other beds on this list. This bed offers sleepers a luxury experience and comes with a luxury price tag.
• Eco-conscious sleepers: If you’re looking for a mattress made with only natural, eco-friendly materials, it might be better to check out our list of organic mattresses.

Think the Bear Elite Hybrid is the right pick for you? Check out our full review of the Bear Elite Hybrid mattress to learn more and click here to get the best deal.

Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Best Extra-Firm Hybrid Mattress

Expert Opinion

The Signature Hybrid is the flagship mattress from Brooklyn Bedding, and remains one of the brand’s most popular models. It has a simple construction of memory foam, transition foam, and individually pocketed coils at the very bottom of the bed, making for a well-balanced bed that delivers both comfort and support. When we tested it out, we found that we got a slight lift from the coils while also experiencing some soothing pressure relief from the foam.

We should note that the Signature Hybrid is available in three different firmness levels: Soft, Medium, and Firm. We found that the Medium was about a 6.5 on the mattress firmness scale — the industry standard for medium firm. So for purposes of this list, we’re recommending the Firm model, which should feel like a 7.5 or 8 on the firmness scale.

What our tester says: “Given that the Signature Hybrid has some excellent bounce, I’d highly recommend this mattress for combination sleepers who often change positions multiple times throughout the night. I also think the Signature Hybrid could be a great fit for couples. You shouldn’t be overly disturbed by a restless partner on this bed, and it has nice, firm edge support.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer

Who the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Is Best For

• Combination sleepers: The coils give the Signature Hybrid a good amount of bounce, so it should be easy for these folks to change sleeping positions on its surface. 
• Stomach sleepers: There should be enough firmness and support for them, as long as they opt for the Firm model. Back sleepers might also be comfortable on this model, but side sleepers should go for the Soft or Medium model.
• Couples: The coils make the Signature Hybrid responsive enough for sex, plus the bed has low motion transfer, which means partners aren’t likely to feel each other tossing and turning at night.

Who Should Avoid the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid

• Luxury shoppers: As we mentioned, the Signature Hybrid has a fairly simple construction without a ton of bells and whistles. If you’re searching for something fancier, we recommend looking at our list of the best luxury mattresses.

If you’re ready to sleep on the Signature Hybrid, click here for our best deal. You can also learn more in our full Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress review, or check out more options on our list of the best hybrid mattresses.

Nolah Evolution – Best Extra-Firm Mattress for Back Sleepers

Expert Opinion

Many of Nolah’s mattresses are outfitted with the brand’s proprietary AirFoam — a more breathable alternative to memory foam. The Nolah Evolution is no different, but because the bed is available in three different firmness levels, you can get an extra-firm option with the Firm model. When we tested out the Luxury Firm model, we got a lot of support from the bed’s 8-inch layer of HD Max EcoSupport coils, and ultimately scored the mattress a 6.5 on the mattress firmness scale — the industry standard for medium firm. That means the Firm model should come in somewhere between a 7.5 and 8.

Both of these models should be very comfortable for back sleepers. When we tested out the Nolah Evolution in the back-sleeping position, we got enough support for a neutral spinal alignment, while still getting some cushioning at our lumbar region from the AirFoam. We also ran the mattress through our pressure map test, which uses a specialized mat to detect how much pressure is being put on different parts of our body. In the back-sleeping position, the graphic lit up almost entirely blue, indicating almost no pressure.

What our tester says: “I think back sleepers should love how the Evolution’s hybrid build provides both the support to realign the spine and the softness to sink in just enough.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

Who the Nolah Evolution Is Best For

• Hot sleepers: The AirFoam in the Nolah Evolution is technically called AirFoamICE, as it has an infusion of graphite that assists with cooling. This, along with the airflow-promoting coils and the presence of ArcticTex fibers in the comfort layer, should help hot sleepers keep a low temperature.
• Stomach sleepers: Like back sleepers, they should get the support they need from the Firm model of this mattress.
• Side sleepers: While we don’t recommend the Firm model for these folks, they should be comfortable on the Soft or Luxury Firm model, getting all the contouring they need at the shoulders and hips, where they put the most pressure.

Who Should Avoid the Nolah Evolution

• Budget shoppers: The Nolah Evolution is definitely a more expensive mattress. If you’re on a budget, check out some of our best affordable mattresses instead.

Ready to lie down on the Nolah Evolution? Click here for our best deal. You can also learn more about this bed in our full Nolah Evolution mattress review. And if you’re still exploring other options, you can always check out our best mattresses for back sleepers page.

Saatva – Best Extra-Firm Innerspring Mattress

Expert Opinion

The Saatva Classic mattress has a traditional innerspring feel and offers a luxurious, firm sleeping experience. It comes in three different firmness levels, so we recommend sleepers wanting an extra-firm mattress to pick the Firm model. The bed’s memory foam and coil-on-coil system bring sleepers cushiony support. In addition, it has a zoned support system, which will help promote spinal alignment.

What our tester says: “The Saatva Classic is a bouncy, high-quality mattress with durability and great edge support. I think it’s a nice option for back and combination sleepers.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor

Who the Saatva Is Best For

• Back sleepers: The Firm model provides enough cushioning to offer relief for back sleepers, while the coil-on-coil system provides support to help align their spine.
• Hot sleepers: The mattress’ construction allows for a lot of airflow and breathability, so if you get hot while sleeping, it can help you stay cool.
• Stomach sleepers: The Saatva should offer firm support to these sleepers in order to keep their hips lifted in line with their shoulders, ultimately helping prevent back pain.

Who Should Avoid the Saatva

• Some couples: This bed doesn’t do the best job isolating motion, so if you wake up easily by a tossing and turning partner you may want to consider a different option.
• Side sleepers: The Firm version will likely be too firm for side sleepers and not provide the sinkage they need at the hips and shoulders. The Plush Soft model would be a better fit for these folks.

Is the Saata the type of extra-firm mattress you need? Check out our full Saatva Mattress Review and get our best deal here. If you’re looking for other options, check out our review for the best mattresses for side sleepers.

Birch Natural – Best Extra-Firm Latex Mattress

Expert Opinion

As a material, latex foam tends to be more responsive, cooling, and yes, firmer than memory foam. So we knew we had to include at least one latex bed on our list of the best extra-firm mattresses. We ended up going with the Birch Natural (created by Helix Sleep), a latex hybrid that has an organic cotton cover, a fire barrier of organic wool, a comfort layer of natural Talalay latex, and a support layer of individually wrapped coils. Together, these materials are environmentally friendly and have earned several organic certifications, including  GREENGUARD Gold and GOTS. You can read more about what those certifications mean here.

When we tested out the Birch Natural, we found it to be firm and springy, coming in at a 7 out of 10 on our mattress firmness scale. We think sleepers should find it easy to move around on this bed, which makes it ideal for combination sleepers who need to move around and change sleeping positions at night. The mobility also makes the Birch one of the best mattresses for sex.

What our tester says: “In general, I’d recommend this bed to anyone looking for a firm mattress. The Birch is also very bouncy, which means combination sleepers who need to be able to change positions easily should like the feel of this bed.” – Madison Schaper, former staff writer

Who the Birch Natural Is Best For

• Hot sleepers: The springs in the Birch leave plenty of room for airflow, plus latex’s natural breathability makes it a good cooling option for people who sleep hot. 
• Eco-conscious shoppers: Environmentally minded sleepers will surely appreciate the Birch’s numerous organic certifications.
• Back sleepers and stomach sleepers: They tend to require more support than side sleepers, and they’ll likely find it in the Birch Natural.

Who Should Avoid the Birch Natural

• Side sleepers: There isn’t a ton of contouring in the Birch Natural, so they probably won’t get the pressure relief they need at their shoulders and hips. We recommend they see our list of the best mattresses for side sleepers for more suitable options.

If you’re ready to purchase the Birch Natural, click here for our best deal. You can also learn more in our full Birch Natural mattress review. If you’re still searching, check out our page of the best latex mattresses.

Who Should Buy an Extra-Firm Mattress?

Extra-firm mattresses are best for stomach sleepers, people who want additional support, and those who like an extra feeling of firmness underneath them when they sleep. Extra-firm mattresses can provide support in a way softer mattresses generally do not, but some still offer a pressure-relieving and contouring layer that can help sleepers find a comfortable fit. We generally do not recommend extra-firm mattresses to stomach sleepers or folks looking for deep pressure relief.

What to Look for in the Best Extra-Firm Mattress

Mattress Firmness

We measure firmness at Sleepopolis on a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest (like you’re sleeping on cotton candy) and 10 being the firmest (like you’re sleeping on concrete). We use 6.5 as our standard for medium-firm, which is a firmness level that can work for a variety of sleepers and their needs. We typically consider anything 8 and above to be extra firm.

Take a look at the breakdown below and check out our mattress buying guide for more info.  

1 to 5 Mattresses

These are truly soft beds. If interested in a bed in this range, you’ll want to make sure it’s supportive enough for your body and sleeping position. Because of this, it’s unusual for us to come across a bed that’s softer than a 5. The Helix Sunset is a good example of a soft, yet supportive mattress.

6 Mattresses

6 mattresses are medium-soft beds. Mattresses closer to a 6.5 are medium-firm. We’d recommend mattresses that fall in the 6 to 6.5 range for side sleepers. Back sleepers can also feel great in that range, but may do best closer to a 6.5. The Bear Star Hybrid is a nice example of this type of mattress.

 

7 Mattresses

7 mattresses are firm beds. The WinkBed in the middle firmness model is a great example of a firmer mattress. Most sleepers on the hunt for a firm mattress should like a bed that falls at a 7 on the firmness scale.

8 to 9 Mattreses

8 to 9 mattresses are extra-firm beds, and are especially good fits for stomach sleepers who need a lot of support and heavier folks. The Plank Firm is a great example of an extra-firm mattress.

10’s

10 is the ranking we’d give to a hardwood floor, so it’s pretty unlikely to come across a bed this firm. At least, we haven’t so far.

Sleeping Positions and Extra-Firm Mattresses 

As we mentioned with some of the different mattresses above, depending on your sleeping position, some extra-firm mattresses may end up causing more harm than good. Considering how you sleep can help you decide what kind of mattress is best, and it affects the firmness of the mattress you are looking for.

We test all of the mattresses we review for each sleeping position by laying on the bed in every postion and using our expert knowledge of mattresses, pressure relief, contouring, and firmness needs, we can help you determine if a certain bed is good for you.

Edge Support

Body Type and Extra-Firm Mattresses

Editor’s Note: We recognize that people come in all shapes and sizes, and people of every size deserve a mattress that works for their body type. We use the weight categories light, average, and heavy to more easily categorize sleepers based on how mattresses will perform for their body type, as most mattresses are designed for the group we call “average.”

We use the following categories for body types: 

• Lightweight sleepers: Less than 130 pounds
• Average weight sleepers: Between 130 and 250 pounds
• Heavy sleepers: More than 250 pounds 

Beds are typically going to feel firmer to lightweight sleepers than they do heavyweight sleepers. Because of this, lightweight sleepers tend to do best on softer mattresses. If you’re heavier in weight, you’re going to need more support from a bed and will typically do well on a firm or extra-firm mattress. If you weigh more than 250 pounds, it’s essential to find a mattress that’s going to fit your needs. We recommend taking a look at our roundup of the best mattresses for heavy people to see some great options.

Price

The price of your mattress will vary depending on the materials, brand, and type of bed. There are beds on the market that cost less than $500, and beds that cost upwards of $2,500. Like anything on the market, some mattresses are more expensive because of branding, and others truly are better quality. We recommend considering what attributes are most important for you and buying a new mattress based on those factors, not brand. If you are looking for deals, shopping around holidays like Labor Day, Memorial Day, and Black Friday may be a good idea, or you can check out our recommendations for the best cheap mattresses and best mattresses under $1,000.

FAQs

What type of mattress is the firmest? 

Latex or innerspring mattresses can feel very firm. However, there are also memory foam and hybrid mattresses designed to be extra firm.

What is the hardest firm mattress?

Mattresses will feel firmer to some sleepers more than others. The Plank Firm mattress came in at an 8.5 on our firmness scale (where 1 is the softest and 10 is the firmest), and is one the firmest and flattest beds we’ve tested.

Is it good to have an extra-firm mattress?

It depends on your sleeping position and body type. An extra-firm bed can be beneficial for some stomach and back sleepers. It’s typically not suitable for side sleepers since they usually need a softer mattress to get ample pressure relief.

Is it better to sleep on an extra-firm mattress? 

It’s not necessarily better to sleep on an extra-firm mattress. However, depending on the support you need, whether you’re a heavy sleeper, or what type of position you sleep in, an extra-firm bed might be the right choice for you.

How We Chose These Mattresses

Our team of Certified Sleep Science Coaches has reviewed more than 220 products in our mattress lab, running each one through tests such as pressure-mapping and measuring motion transfer with a seismometer. From there, we give every bed an overall score based on materials, comfort, support, cooling, and edge support. We also factor in brand performance with categories such as value and warranty.

For our picks on this list, we made sure they all landed around an 8 out of 10 or higher on our firmness scale, since that’s what we consider to be a true extra-firm bed. We’ve also given special consideration to both comfort and support. Click here to learn more about our methodology. And if you’re still not sure of the right mattress at the end of this article, you can take our mattress quiz to be shown a selection of mattresses curated to your sleep preferences.

Best Extra-Firm Mattresses 2024

Mattress	Best For	Price (Queen)	Coupon	Review
Plank Firm	Overall	$1,332	Brooklyn Bedding Coupon	Read Our Review
Helix Dawn	Best Value	$1,373	Helix Coupon	Read Our Review
Titan Plus	Best for Heavy Sleepers	$1,249	Brooklyn Bedding Coupon	Read Our Review
WinkBeds	Best Pillow Top	$1,799	WinkBeds Coupon	Read Our Review
Bear Elite Hybrid	Best Luxury	$2,111	Bear Mattress Coupon	Read Our Review
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid	Best Hybrid	$1,332	Brooklyn Bedding Coupon	Read Our Review
Nolah Evolution	Best for Back Sleepers	$2,499	Nolah Coupon	Read Our Review
Saatva	Best Innerspring	$1,995	Saatva Coupon	Read Our Review
Birch Natural (By Helix)	Best Latex	$1,874	Helix Coupon	Read Our Review

Logan Block

Mattress Reviewer

About Author

Logan is the former content director of Sleepopolis. As content director, he reviewed new mattresses every week and curated the comparisons, best of pages, and video guides on the site. Logan perfected his method by personally testing over 200 different mattresses, so he’s not only able to discern the overall vibe of a specific bed, but to contextualize its feel within the bed-in-a-box market as a whole.

Combination Sleeper