Buying a new mattress is a big decision. Not only are you going to be investing in something that you’ll (hopefully) have for years, but you’re also going to be dropping some pretty serious coin in the process. But can we let you in on a little secret? You don’t have to break the bank to find a fantastic mattress. In fact, there are a plethora of affordable options available online that are just as luxurious, supportive, and sleep-changing as any of the pricier models you might come across in your search.
The key is in asking the right questions and figuring out which models are going to give you the absolute most bang for your buck. Unsure of where to begin? No worries! We’ve compiled our favorite value mattresses by category below, so no matter the kind of bed you seek, you’re bound to see one that feels like the perfect fit.
Our Top Pick for Best Mattress for the Money
We went with the Helix Midnight because it provides the feel of contouring memory foam while also being a durable and affordable bed. Senior product editor Bridget Chapman also noted that this bed is a great choice for back and side sleepers, who should enjoy the balance of pressure relief and support it offers.
Best Mattresses for the Money 2023
- Best Overall Mattress for the Money – Helix Midnight
- Best Memory Foam Mattress for the Money – Nectar
- Best Cooling Mattress for the Money – Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid
- Best Mattress for Back Pain – WinkBeds
- Best Mattress for Side Sleepers – Nolah Evolution
- Best Mattress for Couples – Emma Hybrid Comfort
- Best Mattress for Athletes – Bear
- Best Queen Mattress for the Money – Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
- Best Mattress for Heavy People – Titan Plus
- Best Organic Mattress for the Money – Birch Natural
Best Mattress for the Money Video
Compare Best Mattresses for the Money
Helix Midnight Mattress
Nectar Mattress
Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid
WinkBed Mattress
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Emma Hybrid Comfort
Bear Mattress
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
Titan Plus
Birch Mattress
Rating
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Soft: 6/10
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Multiple firmness options
Multiple firmness options
Firm: 7.5/10
Medium-firm: 7/10
Multiple firmness options
Firm: 7.5/10
Medium-firm: 7/10
Material
Hybrid
Foam
Hybrid
Hybrid
Hybrid
Hybrid
Foam
Hybrid
Hybrid
Hybrid
Cooling
--
--
--
✓
--
✓
✓
--
--
✓
Sleep Position
Back & Side
Back & Side
Back & Stomach
Combination
Back & Side
Back & Stomach
Back & Side
Back
Back & Stomach
Back & Stomach
Best Overall Mattress for the Money – Helix Midnight
The Helix Midnight has a medium support level and bounce that will appeal to a wide range of sleep preferences. The Midnight also does an exceptional job of isolating motion, making it a great choice for couples that move around at night.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Helix Midnight has a medium support level and bounce that will appeal to a wide range of sleep preferences. The Midnight also does an exceptional job of isolating motion, making it a great choice for couples that move around at night.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Helix Midnight has a medium support level and bounce that will appeal to a wide range of sleep preferences. The Midnight also does an exceptional job of isolating motion, making it a great choice for couples that move around at night.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Helix Midnight Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
Helix Midnight Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
Helix Midnight Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
Expert Opinion
If you want a high-quality hybrid mattress for the money, one of our favorite brands around is Helix. While the company is known for its customizable beds, it also has a lineup of six hybrid mattresses (a construction of springs and coils), each with a different level of firmness. We often steer readers toward the Helix Midnight, a medium-firm option that appeals to a wide variety of folks.
During testing, we checked the Helix Midnight’s cooling abilities. As a hybrid, we were pretty certain it’d get good results, and because of the coils, there’s lots of room for airflow. However, if you’re looking for an extra-cooling mattress, we recommend the luxury version of this mattress: the Helix Midnight Luxe. It includes a Tencel cover that improves the cooling capabilities.
What our tester says: “I love that the Helix Midnight offers solid edge support — you can use the whole bed. It also has great motion isolation, which makes it a nice option for couples.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor
What Customers Say
Customers have a lot of great things to say about the Helix Midnight’s optional cooling cover, which shoppers can purchase for an additional fee. Although the Helix Midnight tested cool in our lab, the cover could be a good idea for those who sleep especially hot.
Pros of the Helix Midnight
- This mattress has a nice mix of responsiveness and pressure relief. That makes it an exceptionally good bed for combo sleepers, who change between sleeping positions at night.
- Another big strength of the Midnight is its superior motion isolation, which should appeal to anyone who shares a bed.
- We recommend the Helix Midnight for both back sleepers and side sleepers, as they each need a blend of comfort and support. And if you want something just a touch softer, you can check out the upgraded version of this bed, the Helix Midnight Luxe.
Cons of the Helix Midnight
- While the Helix Midnight does have coils, overall, it’s not supportive enough for body weights over 250 pounds.
Curious about this bed? Read our full Helix Midnight mattress review. You can click here for the best deal, or if you’re still shopping, check out our other picks for best mattresses.
Best Memory Foam Mattress for the Money – Nectar
The Nectar is an all-foam mattress with enough support to please any side sleeper, and plenty of gel memory foam for maximum comfort. You get all the benefits of a foam mattress at an affordable price. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Nectar is an all-foam mattress with enough support to please any side sleeper, and plenty of gel memory foam for maximum comfort. You get all the benefits of a foam mattress at an affordable price. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Nectar is an all-foam mattress with enough support to please any side sleeper, and plenty of gel memory foam for maximum comfort. You get all the benefits of a foam mattress at an affordable price. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Nectar Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
Nectar Mattress
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
Nectar Mattress
Material
Foam
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
Expert Opinion
We recognize that when discussing the best mattresses for the money, it’s not always about paying a low price. That being said, affordability doesn’t hurt, either. Despite being a high-quality memory foam mattress that offers sleepers luxurious contouring and pressure relief, you can usually find a Nectar queen size for at or under $1,000. This is a fantastic deal for a high-quality memory foam mattress that provides some excellent contouring and support.
To test how well the memory foam cushions us, we put the Nectar through our pressure map test in our lab. For this test, we place a specialized mat across mattress to track which areas of the body have the most pressure buildup. In the side-sleeping position, our pressure map showed a lot of green and blue, meaning that it should be comfortable for these folks, but maybe a little firm for anyone who suffers from hip pain. For back sleeping, we found almost all blue, meaning that they shouldn’t feel pressure buildup in this position. If the Nectar were a bad mattress for pressure relief, we would have seen yellow, orange, or red.
What our tester says: “I think the Nectar has a great classic memory foam feel. If you love deep sinkage and contouring, this is the mattress for you. I especially like this feel for back and side sleepers, who should find their pressure points cushioned and spines supported.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor
What Customers Say
Shoppers note that the Nectar is a fantastic mattress for the value. They appreciate that for a quality construction, they didn’t have to shell out an exorbitant amount of money.
Pros of the Nectar
- This is a softer mattress with a classic memory foam feel — a good fit for side sleepers who need pressure relief at the shoulders and hips.
- Memory foam mattresses are often good at isolating motion, and the Nectar is no different. Couples unlikely to notice each other moving around as they sleep.
- As long as they don’t mind a softer feel, back sleepers should be happy on this bed. They’ll get cushioning along the spine from the foam without sacrificing support.
Cons of the Nectar
- Those over 250 pounds likely won’t get enough support. We’d like to point them to our best mattresses for heavy people instead.
Head over to our full Nectar mattress review for more information. Or if you’re ready to buy, click here for the best deal. You can also see our roundup of the best memory foam mattresses for more options.
Best Cooling Mattress for the Money – Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid
The Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid mattress uses a combination of coils and gel memory foam to provide soft contouring without that "stuck in the bed" feel.
The Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid mattress uses a combination of coils and gel memory foam to provide soft contouring without that "stuck in the bed" feel.
The Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid mattress uses a combination of coils and gel memory foam to provide soft contouring without that "stuck in the bed" feel.
Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
365 Nights
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
365 Nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
365 Nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Price Range
$$$$$
Expert Opinion
Saatva is known for its flagship luxury hybrid mattress, but the company also offers a slightly more affordable option called the Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid. We think it’s one of the best mattresses for the money out there, especially when it comes to cooling.
We don’t feel hot at all when testing it. Funnily enough, it started out as an all-foam mattress called the Saatva Modern Foam. But beds made entirely out of foam are known for trapping heat, so Saatva adapted it with coils and a new cooling memory foam to promote a low temperature at night. Other cooling features include a breathable cotton cover and gel infusions to dissipate body heat.
What our tester says: “I was so comfortable and loved the medium-firm feel that had a touch of softness. I also like how this mattress is built to please hot sleepers. The materials all work together to keep heat away from your body and your bed.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor
What Customers Say
Saatva shoppers praise the customer service, saying that sales representatives take time to share knowledge, answer questions, and assist with decision-making.
Pros of the Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid
- The mattress has lumbar zone quilting, which simultaneously cushions the spine and keeps it neutrally aligned. Most back sleepers (including heavy back sleepers) should get the support they need from the coils.
- The coils help reduce pressure and buoyancy so combo sleepers don’t get stuck in the bed when moving around — a common issue with memory foam.
- This bed clocked in at a 6.5 out of 10 on our mattress firmness scale. This is the industry standard for medium firm, creating a balanced feel.
Cons of the Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid
- Stomach sleepers need an ultra-supportive bed that will keep them lifted so that their hips stay aligned with their shoulders. The Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid may not be the best fit.
Check out our full Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid mattress review to learn more. You can also click here for the best deal, or peruse our roundup of the best cooling mattresses for more options.
Best Mattress for Back Pain – WinkBed
The WinkBed offers the necessary comfort and support for sleepers who experience back, hip, or shoulder pain. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The WinkBed offers the necessary comfort and support for sleepers who experience back, hip, or shoulder pain. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The WinkBed offers the necessary comfort and support for sleepers who experience back, hip, or shoulder pain. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.WinkBed Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
WinkBed Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
WinkBed Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Expert Opinion
We like to recommend innerspring mattresses to anyone living with back pain. These beds tend to be firm and supportive. That helps keep your spine aligned from hips to shoulders. A well-known innerspring mattresses in the sleep industry is the WinkBed. When lying down on it, there’s an on-top-of-the-bed feeling that tells us we’re getting all of the support we need to prevent back pain. And while innerspring mattresses tend to be pricier than all-foam beds (coils cost more to produce than foam), the WinkBed is often available at a significant discount, making it an excellent innerspring mattress for the money.
We have more than the feel of the WinkBed to tell us whether or not it’s good for back pain; we also have the pressure map test. We saw almost entirely blue on our pressure map, with just a bit of green at the hips. So, this tells us the WinkBed’s a great option for back pain. Of course, this came from the Luxury Firm version, so if you’re wanting something extra pressure-relieving, we recommend the Softer version.
What our tester says: “One of my favorite things about the WinkBed is its durability. I also really like the bouncy support this mattress offers. It should be a hit with combination sleepers.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor
What Customers Say
Several folks who ordered the Softer version say that it assists with arthritis or other types of joint pain.
Pros of the WinkBed
- The WinkBed is available in three different firmness levels: Softer, Luxury Firm, and Firmer. So back sleepers, side sleepers, and stomach sleepers alike should be able to find a model that suits them.
- The Luxury Firm and Firmer models are supportive enough for heavy sleepers over 250 pounds, and there’s even another model, the WinkBed Plus, made especially for larger body types.
- If you look at the construction of an innerspring mattress, the coils leave much more space than an all-foam mattress. This allows more air to flow through the bed (great news for hot sleepers).
Cons of the WinkBed
- Even the softest model of the WinkBed is going to be bouncier, more supportive, and more responsive than most memory foam mattresses. So if you’re after that slow, sinking feeling, you may want to look elsewhere.
Check out the full WinkBeds mattress review to learn more. If you’re in love with this bed, click here for the best deal, or see our other best mattresses for back pain.
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers – Nolah Evolution
Nolah Evolution strikes a nice balance between soft and firm, making it work for side sleepers and back sleepers looking for a softer mattress. With breathable foams and unmatched comfort to top it off, you'll be amazed by its affordability. Nolah Evolution strikes a nice balance between soft and firm, making it work for side sleepers and back sleepers looking for a softer mattress. With breathable foams and unmatched comfort to top it off, you'll be amazed by its affordability. Nolah Evolution strikes a nice balance between soft and firm, making it work for side sleepers and back sleepers looking for a softer mattress. With breathable foams and unmatched comfort to top it off, you'll be amazed by its affordability.Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Expert Opinion
When selecting the best mattress for side sleepers, we always measure a bed’s pressure-relieving abilities with something called a pressure map. Our reviewer spreads it across the mattress’ surface, and then a series of graphics shows them how much pressure their body is experiencing in different positions.
We feel confident in recommending the hybrid Nolah Evolution to side sleepers because on our pressure map test, it shows little to no pressure at the shoulders and hips. The mattress should give them deep body contouring and pressure relief. It comes in three different firmness levels: Plush, Luxury Firm, and Firm. I recommend the Plush model for side sleepers.
What our tester says: “I love how the Nolah Evolution comes in three different firmness models, so you can choose the best fit for you. This mattress provides good pressure relief and body contouring. I found that the soft comfort foams paired well with the coil base layer, giving a nice blended feel.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor
What Customers Say
A lot of side sleepers in the comment section show their appreciation for the Nolah Evolution’s excellent pressure relief.
Pros of the Nolah Evolution
- The coils in the mattress promote airflow, and there’s a layer of Nolah’s signature AirFoam — a more breathable version of memory foam.
- There are lots of bells and whistles on the Nolah Evolution, from the proprietary foam to a cooling cover. But the bed is often available several hundred dollars below its market price, which is why we think it’s such a good mattress for the money.
- Back sleepers should be comfortable on the Luxury Firm model of the Nolah Evolution.
Cons of the Nolah Evolution
- Many stomach sleepers will probably need a more supportive mattress than the Nolah Evolution.
Read our full Nolah Evolution mattress review to learn more. Click here to get the best deal, or mosey on over to our page of the best mattresses for side sleepers for more options.
Best Mattress for Couples – Emma Hybrid Comfort
The Emma Hybrid Comfort is a firm, supportive, and bouncy mattress. A good fit for back sleepers and stomach sleepers, it also has open-celled foam for cooling.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Emma Hybrid Comfort is a firm, supportive, and bouncy mattress. A good fit for back sleepers and stomach sleepers, it also has open-celled foam for cooling.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Emma Hybrid Comfort is a firm, supportive, and bouncy mattress. A good fit for back sleepers and stomach sleepers, it also has open-celled foam for cooling.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Emma Hybrid Comfort
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Emma Hybrid Comfort
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Emma Hybrid Comfort
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Expert Opinion
After testing out the Emma Hybrid Comfort, we think its responsiveness and comfort could be a good fit for heavy couples, as well as partners of several different body types. While its coils create an immense amount of support, there’s enough contouring and comfort in the foams to give two bodies some cozy pressure relief. And considering that a queen size can often be found for under $1,000 after discounts, it’s definitely one of the best mattresses for the money.
The Emma Hybrid Comfort did well on our many tests to see if it’s good for couples. On our motion transfer test, which involves dropping a 10-pound steel ball at three different heights, the Emma Hybrid Comfort had excellent results. There wasn’t an overwhelming amount of disturbance measured across the mattress surface, so we don’t think couples will feel each other’s movements at night. Also, we determined that the many cooling features should help keep the body temperature down, even with two people in the bed. Most notably, the springs leave plenty of room for airflow, which can assist with cooling.
Finally, the Emma Hybrid Comfort has strong edge support, with a reinforced perimeter around the mattress. This means that couples are able to spread out and utilize the entire surface of their bed without feeling like they’re going to fall off.
What our tester says: “The Emma mattress’s supportive foam layers and responsive coil system make it a fantastic choice for couples who prioritize motion isolation and mobility. ” – Amelia Jerden, senior staff writer
What Customers Say
Customers share their positive feedback on the Emma Hybrid Comfort’s cooling capabilities, a must for any mattress designed with couples in mind.
Pros of the Emma Hybrid Comfort
- Average weight back sleepers should get the lift they need to keep their spine in a neutral alignment.
- Since average weight stomach sleepers already need more firmness and support than most other sleepers, they should be right at home on the Emma Hybrid Comfort.
- This is a firm and responsive mattress (we rated it a 7.5 out of 10 on our mattress firmness scale), so combination sleepers should be able to change positions with little issues.
Cons of the Emma Hybrid Comfort
- Side sleepers probably aren’t going to get the pressure relief they need from the Emma Hybrid Comfort, and would be better off seeking out a softer mattress with more contouring at the shoulders and hips.
Learn more in our full Emma Hybrid Comfort mattress review. You can also click here for the best deal, or see our other best mattresses for couples.
Best Mattress for Athletes – Bear
We appreciate the firm and responsive feel of the Bear mattress. Its combination of support and pressure relief makes it an awesome option for anyone struggling with back pain. The Celliant cover also does a great job of keeping the mattress cool.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. We appreciate the firm and responsive feel of the Bear mattress. Its combination of support and pressure relief makes it an awesome option for anyone struggling with back pain. The Celliant cover also does a great job of keeping the mattress cool.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. We appreciate the firm and responsive feel of the Bear mattress. Its combination of support and pressure relief makes it an awesome option for anyone struggling with back pain. The Celliant cover also does a great job of keeping the mattress cool.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Bear Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
Bear Mattress
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
Bear Mattress
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
Expert Opinion
If you’re an athlete on the hunt for the best mattress for the money, let us introduce you to the Bear, an all-foam mattress with a cover made of Celliant. We’re big fans of this material, as it helps the bed sleep nice and cool. It’s also designed to absorb your energy, then redirect it back to you, which may assist with blood flow and recovery. Even though we can’t verify these claims, we can definitely speak to the cover’s coolness, as well as the mattress’ firm foams that help support athletes’ musculature after a long workout. You can often find a queen size for less than $1,000 after promos and discounts. However, in the spirit of honesty, we do want to point out that this Celliant cover does cost $130, in addition to the total price of the Bear mattress itself.
Athletes should also appreciate the level of pressure relief on the Bear, especially if they sleep on their back. During testing, our pressure map showed low buildup in the back-sleeping position especially. Side-sleeping might result in pressure buildup for folks who experience pain in the hip and shoulder.
What our tester says: “I really appreciate the firm and responsive feel of the Bear mattress. Its combination of support and pressure relief makes it an great option for back sleepers living with back pain. I also really like the Bear’s Celliant cover.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor
What Customers Say
If you’re after a balanced feel, you’ll love to know that many shoppers note the Bear has an exceptional balance of comfort and support.
Pros of the Bear
- It is supportive enough back sleepers, even with back pain. The mattress has an on-top-of-the-bed feel that keeps you lifted and can help the spine stay neutrally aligned.
- All-foam mattresses tend to be good at isolating motion. Couples are unlikely to feel their partner shifting around on the Bear.
- If you’re a combo sleeper, you should feel right at home and be able to easily switch positions on the Bear’s responsive foam.
Cons of the Bear
- The Bear scored a 7 out of 10 on our firmness scale – so it’s pretty firm. If you’re a side sleeper, you may prefer a slightly softer mattress.
For everything you’ve ever wanted to know about this bed, check out our full Bear mattress review. You can also click here to get the best deal or check out our best mattresses for athletes for other choices.
Best Queen Mattress for the Money – Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature is a hybrid mattress made out of a combination of memory foam and latex foam. The Signature offers a good amount of bounce that combination sleepers who move around in the middle of the night can enjoy.
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature is a hybrid mattress made out of a combination of memory foam and latex foam. The Signature offers a good amount of bounce that combination sleepers who move around in the middle of the night can enjoy.
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature is a hybrid mattress made out of a combination of memory foam and latex foam. The Signature offers a good amount of bounce that combination sleepers who move around in the middle of the night can enjoy.
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Expert Opinion
When it comes to finding an affordable mattress, we love Brooklyn Bedding for its wide range of high-quality options. Because the company owns its own factory, they’re able to cut down on the usual manufacturing costs and pass the savings onto the customer. One of their most popular beds is the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid, a medium-firm hybrid that, after discounts, can often be found under $1,000 for a queen size.
What our tester says: “I appreciate that the Brooklyn Signature Hybrid mattress isolates motion well, has strong edge support, and sleeps fairly cool. I also like that this mattress offers an ‘on-top-of-the-bed,’ plush feel. I think it’s a great choice for combination sleepers.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor
What Customers Say
Couples with different sleeping position preferences comment that the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid supports the both of them well in their respective positions.
Pros the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
- Back sleepers should find that the mattress’ proprietary foams and individually wrapped coils offer the right blend of comfort and support. We’d also recommend this bed to anyone with back pain, as the foams and coils help promote a healthy sleep posture.
- The coils create just enough responsiveness for combination sleepers to be able to change positions with ease.
- The Signature Hybrid isolates motion well and is cool enough for two people. It also has impressive edge support — another plus for couples, especially if they sleep near the edge of the bed.
Cons of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
- Because it’s somewhere in the middle in regards to comfort, firmness, and support, the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid likely isn’t going to be a good fit for stomach sleepers, who need an extremely supportive mattress.
- Side sleepers: On the flip side of the coin, these folks will probably need a softer mattress.
Want to learn more? Check out our full Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress review. Or you can click here for the best deal, or see some of our other best queen mattresses.
Best Mattress for Heavy People – Titan Plus
With its reinforced support and extra-durable materials such as TitanFlex Foam, the Brooklyn Bedding Titan should appeal to people who weigh 250 pounds or more. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. With its reinforced support and extra-durable materials such as TitanFlex Foam, the Brooklyn Bedding Titan should appeal to people who weigh 250 pounds or more. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. With its reinforced support and extra-durable materials such as TitanFlex Foam, the Brooklyn Bedding Titan should appeal to people who weigh 250 pounds or more. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Titan Plus
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Titan Plus
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Titan Plus
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Expert Opinion
We like to get some outside help whenever we’re deciding on the best mattress for heavy people. If we’re going to recommend a bed to them, we want to make sure it’s being tested by someone with a larger body type. For the hybrid Titan Plus, we turned to a professional powerlifter named Paulie. He was able to press into the layers more than our reviewer, getting some nice pressure relief that may not be experienced by lightweight or average-weight sleepers. After all, the Titan Plus was designed specifically for sleepers over 250 pounds.
Given Paulie’s observations, we think it’s a great fit for heavy sleepers. Even though its durable materials result in a higher cost, these folks will be getting the most for their money.
What our tester says: “The materials under the Titan Plus’ hood are sturdy and durable. You get just the right amount of cozy mobility on top, but the theme here is support. Heavier people with back problems will likely enjoy the lower body alignment the Titan Plus provides.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor
What Customers Say
Many heavy sleepers feel fantastic about the Titan Plus’s level of durability and support. They don’t have to worry about the mattress material caving in during the middle of the night.
Pros of the Titan Plus
- Heavy stomach sleepers should appreciate the Titan Plus’ support and firmer feel.
- Heavy back sleepers should feel very supported on the Titan Plus.
- The Titan Plus isolates motion well, so couples won’t be disturbed by each other’s movements. Yet it’s also quite bouncy, which makes a good mattress for sex.
Cons of the Titan Plus
- In testing, Paulie found the Titan Plus to sleep a bit hot, so if you tend to run warm at night, you may run into some issues there. However, you can add a cooling panel for an additional price.
Want to know more? Read our full Titan Plus mattress review. You can click here for the best deal, or see our other options for the best mattresses for heavy people.
Best Organic Mattress for the Money – Birch Natural
The Birch mattress is an all-natural bed that uses organic cotton and wool fibers to create a structure that’s as eco-friendly as it is cozy.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Birch mattress is an all-natural bed that uses organic cotton and wool fibers to create a structure that’s as eco-friendly as it is cozy.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Birch mattress is an all-natural bed that uses organic cotton and wool fibers to create a structure that’s as eco-friendly as it is cozy.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Birch Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
25-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Birch Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
25-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Birch Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
25-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Expert Opinion
Whether you are an eco-conscious shopper or want a bed free from potentially harmful materials, there are many reasons you might want an organic mattress. However, we’ve found that the high-quality materials often drive up the price of these beds. While the Birch mattress is pricier than the other mattresses on this roundup, it’s for good reason; it incorporates organic cotton and wool throughout the mattress, has advanced cooling features, and boasts all-natural Talalay in its transition layer. We chose it because it’s set at a reasonable cost for the material quality and construction. Even before discounts, it’s under $2,000 for a queen size.
What our tester says: “I think anyone looking for a classic latex feel will really appreciate this bed. Its organic layers have a taut, springy feel and really offer great lift and support. If you’re a back and stomach combination sleeper I’d highly recommend the Birch.” – Madison Schaper, former Sleepopolis staff writer and mattress tester
What Customers Say
Sure, customers love how comfortable this mattress is, but they also sleep soundly knowing the mattress is organic and non-toxic.
Pros of the Birch Natural
- At a 7 out of 10 on the firmness scale, the Birch has a firmer feel that should appeal to stomach sleepers.
- Back sleepers can get lots of support from the Birch Natural and should be very comfortable, as long as they like a firmer feel.
- Latex is a naturally responsive material, and the support layer of individually wrapped coils creates plenty of bounce. We determined that should be easy for combination sleepers to move around on the Birch Natural.
Cons of the Birch Natural
- Because latex is so bouncy, the Birch Natural has poor motion isolation. If you’re a light sleeper and your partner moves around a lot at night, you might feel it.
Check out the full Birch mattress review to learn more. Click here for the best deal, or see some more of our picks for the best organic mattresses.
What to Look for In A Mattress for the Money
Now that we’ve covered all the mattresses, we want to highlight a few things we look for when deciding if a bed is a true value buy:
- Warranty: Does the mattress have a solid warranty? If so, you’re likely to get more miles out of it, which extends your purchase far beyond checkout.
- Quality of Materials: Mattresses built with high-quality materials are going to last longer than those designed with cheaper ones. That’s why it’s crucial to consider whether investing in a slightly more expensive bed is actually going to be more cost-effective in the long run. If you are less concerned with getting more “bang for your buck” and just want to get the cheapest mattress, check out our top picks for the best affordable mattresses.
- Value by Category: It’s important to remember that “value” doesn’t always mean “inexpensive.” Sometimes a $2,500 luxury mattress has great value when compared to other models in its category. Similarly, a $250 mattress may be a total dud when sized up to other “budget” brands. It’s all about assessing the materials used, the design elements at play, and the rest of the competitors in the space.
What We Mean By “Value”
When showing the best mattresses for the money, we look at all the features the mattress offers. This means we don’t look at the price on its own, but how it compares to its performance, materials, and warranty.
For example, if a mattress is made of high-quality materials, has a great warranty, and is reasonably priced, then we can conclude that you’re getting your money’s worth for the product. Similarly, a cheap mattress that performs poorly on our tests may not be the greatest “bang for your buck.”
What Kind of Mattress Type is the Best Value?
- Coil/spring mattresses feature layers of steel coils that help support the body. Sometimes, these coils are wrapped in foam for added comfort and pressure relief. While innerspring mattresses are typically the least expensive, they can also cause the most restless nights if the coil count is too low or the quality of steel used is poor. Additionally, you’ll want to replace your innerspring mattress around every eight years.
- Memory foam mattresses are comprised of layers of memory foam that adapt in real time to the curves of your body while you sleep. They’re typically more expensive than innersprings, though some folks find that the added layers of pressure-relieving foam are well worth the price. A good memory foam mattress should last you about 10 years.
- Latex foam mattresses are similar to memory foam mattresses in that they’re both made up of foam layers. But unlike memory foam, latex has a quick response to pressure, resulting in a bouncy material designed to keep the sleeper positioned on top of the bed. Latex also happens to sleep a little cooler than memory foam. With this added boost of temperature regulation and lift, you can expect to pay more for a latex bed. However, they typically last for up to 12 years.
- Hybrid mattresses can make great value buys because they essentially combine all the great elements of the aforementioned mattress types (the pressure relief of memory foam, the bounce of latex, the support of innerspring) into one convenient package. A good hybrid mattress will last you about 10 years.
- Pillow-top mattresses are characterized by the plush pillow-top cushion sewn into the top of the mattress. This feature can be applied to innerspring, memory foam, latex, or hybrid beds. As supportive and as comfortable as pillow-tops are, keep in mind that they can mean a slightly lower than average lifespan. The pillow-top portion (especially traditional pillow-tops) tend to be the first to go in terms of long-range performance.
What Affects the Price of a Mattress
- Materials: Although it’s going to vary from bed to bed, latex mattresses tend to be at the higher end of the price spectrum. Hybrid and luxury beds may also be more expensive because they involve more craftsmanship and labor.
- Manufacturing: If a company manufactures its beds in the United States, they’re sometimes able to cut out the middleman and give that cost back to the customer in the form of discounts.
- Distribution: It’s almost always going to be cheaper to purchase a mattress online rather than in a brick-and-mortar store. That being said, shipping may get pricey depending on where you live.
- Warranty: This is going to depend on the brand, but sometimes, mattresses with lengthier warranties are priced a little bit higher. The upside is that you’re getting a longer-lasting bed.
Why Does Warranty Affect Price?
When choosing a mattress, you may not even take notice of the different warranties that are offered. But, like any product you’re investing in, a solid warranty is important and shouldn’t be forgotten during your shopping process.
Some mattress companies offer great warranties, such as lifetime warranties, to ensure that you can get your mattress replaced or fixed if it is defective or recalled. These warranties protect you from having to buy a new mattress too soon. So, companies with awesome warranties may value their products at a higher price.
Do I Have to Buy a Box Spring?
“Do I even really need a box spring?”
When trying to save money on a new mattress purchase, this question inevitably comes up. After all, the value of a bed greatly increases if you don’t have to immediately purchase a heavy box spring to go with it. In general, box springs are mostly used to provide some extra height and stability to your bed. To know for sure if you need one, make sure to check the warranty. If it’s not required, you may be able to save a few bucks by ditching the platform all together.
While you may not need a box spring, you will want some type of foundation. Box springs, wood foundations, minimal metal wire frames, platform beds, steel slat frames, wood slat frames, or adjustable bases can all get the job done equally well. If you do opt for a slat frame, make sure you find one with rigid slats that are no more than 3 to 4 inches apart, and that they’re evenly spaced. These will provide good support.
How Can I Make My Mattress Last?
One quick way to add instant value to your mattress is to take care of it. From day one, use a high-quality mattress protector. Not only does this safeguard against spills and stains, it can also ward off bed bugs, dust mites, sweat, dirt, and other allergens that might try and make their way into your mattress. Make a point to wash your protector as often as you wash your sheets (at least every one to two weeks, ideally).
Additionally, you’ll want to make sure to spot-clean your mattress regularly. Sprinkle it with baking soda and vacuum it for quick odor elimination. Consider bleach or enzymatic cleaners for the harder-to-clean areas. Proper maintenance of your mattress will ensure that you’re getting the most for your money and it will last you for years to come.
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.
Because this is a roundup of the best mattresses for the money, we focused specifically on the category of value. Even if a bed was on the higher end of the price scale, we wanted to make sure that it’s worth every cent. With that in mind, we only chose beds that scored a 4 out of 5 or higher on value. 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.
FAQs
What is the best mattress for the money?
It’s all about what you value. Some customers may not mind paying more for a mattress if it means they’re getting higher-quality materials or a longer-term investment. But if we’re talking strictly about a lower price, we think the Nectar is one of the best mattresses for the money. It’s a pressure-relieving yet supportive foam bed that can often be found at close to or under $1,000 for a queen size before any discounts are applied.
What is the best king size mattress for the money?
We once again have to recommend the Nectar, and also, the Bear. Foam mattresses tend to be a bit cheaper than innerspring or hybrid mattresses, and the king size model of each of these beds can often be found for under $1,000 after discounts.
How much does a mattress cost?
Mattress prices vary widely depending on materials, construction, size, and brand. While there’s no magic amount that a mattress should cost, most quality beds will run you between $1,000 and $2,000 for a queen size. That’s the approximate price range we landed on for the products featured in this article.
What is the best value mattress for heavyweight sleepers?
We believe the Titan Plus — a bed designed especially for larger body types over 250 pounds — is an excellent value for heavy sleepers. Despite being a highly durable mattress, you can often find a queen size for under $1,500 before discounts and under $1,000 after discounts. That’s because it’s made by Brooklyn Bedding, a mattress company that owns its own factory and is able to pass what it saves on manufacturing costs back to its customers.
Best Mattresses for the Money of 2023
| Mattress | Best For | Price (Queen) | Coupon | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Helix Midnight | Overall | $1,332 | Helix Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Nectar | Memory Foam | $1,099 | Nectar Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid | Cooling | $1,795 | Saatva Coupon | Read Our Review |
| WinkBeds | Back Pain | $1,799 | WinkBed Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Nolah Evolution | Side Sleepers | $2,449 | Nolah Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Emma Hybrid Comfort | Couples | $1,199 | Emma Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Bear Original | Athletes | $998 | Bear Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid | Queen | $1,332 | Brooklyn Bedding Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Titan Plus | Heavy People | $1,249 | Titan Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Birch Natural by Helix | Organic | $2,123 | Helix Coupon | Read Our Review |
