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Shopping for a new mattress can be overwhelming, but making the right choice can fundamentally change your life for the better with improved sleep quality, reduced joint pain, and even allergy prevention. However, it’s a complicated marketplace with thousands of mattress companies that cater to different sleep styles, including whether you need a mattress for side sleepers, back pain, or couples. In other words, the best mattress for you might be very different from the best mattress for somebody else.
After testing more than 500 mattresses and conducting extensive research, we have curated this guide to the best mattresses to give you a better night’s sleep. Read on to find out which ones made our list, and for more information on the criteria our team of experts and Certified Sleep Science Coaches used to select them.
Sleepopolis’ Best In Rest – Best Mattress of 2026
We chose the Helix Midnight Luxe as the best overall mattress because of its versatility and medium-firm feel—a firmness level that tends to be a good fit for a wide variety of sleepers. It also has several luxury features compared to the core Helix line, including a cushioning pillow top and reinforced edge support.
The 11 Best Mattresses of 2026
- Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress – Best Mattress Overall
- DreamCloud Classic Hybrid – Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers
- Nectar Premier Mattress – Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
- Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid – Best Mattress for Shoulder Pain
- Beautyrest Black Hybrid XCS Mattress – Best Mattress for Couples
- WinkBed Mattress – Best Mattress for Back Pain
- Saatva Classic – Best Cooling Mattress
- Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Mattress – Best Mattress for Back Sleepers
- Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress – Best Luxury Mattress
- Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress – Best Hybrid Mattress
- Silk & Snow Hybrid Mattress – Best Value Mattress
Current Top Deals
- Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress – 20% Off Sitewide with Code LDW20; 25% Off Luxe Mattresses with Code LUXE25; 30% Off Elite Mattresses with Code ELITE30
- DreamCloud Classic Hybrid – Save Up to 60% Off Mattresses + 66% on Bundles
- Nectar Premier Mattress – Save Up to 50% on Mattresses + 66% on Bundles
- Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid – Up to 30% Off Mattresses and 35% Off Mattress + Adjustable Base Bundles; 25% Off Bedding
- Beautyrest Black Hybrid XCS Mattress – Up to $1,000 Off Select Mattress + Adjustable Base Sets
How I Picked the Best Mattresses
During our pressure relief test, we place a specialized mat over the mattress, which then records and displays where pressure builds up as our testers lie the three major sleep positions. The data is transmitted to a computer, creating a color-coded graphic called a “pressure map” that helps us determine how comfortable a bed might be for certain areas of the body.
This map measures pressure in pounds per square inch (PSI) to calculate an overall pressure relief score. Over time, we’ve found that the average PSIs for back and side sleeping are 15.1 and 12.6, respectively. A lower-than-average PSI usually means the bed is less prone to pressure buildup in those positions.
If you (or your partner) are easily disturbed by movement, then a mattress with motion-dampening qualities is a must. Mattresses with strong motion isolation help prevent your partner’s (or pet’s) movements from disturbing you throughout the night.
To assess motion isolation, one of our testers lies on the mattress next to a bin of water and moves around to see how much the water sloshes. Next, we invite another tester to lie blindfolded on one side of the bed while the other tosses and turns on the opposite side. The blindfolded tester raises their thumb whenever they detect movement on their side of the bed.
If you tend to sleep hot, live in a warmer climate, or share a bed with a partner, finding a mattress that can effectively regulate temperatures is essential. Mattresses with well-ventilated materials and cooling technology will help regulate temps to ensure a more restful, sweat-free sleep. Our in-house testers measure the surface temperature of each mattress with a thermal gun before and after lying on it for 5 minutes. The best beds for cooling typically do not warm up by more than 10 degrees during this test.
We’ve developed a rigorous 13-point testing methodology that tells us how each mattress performs and who it might be a good fit for. All of the beds on this list have been evaluated for pressure relief, cooling abilities, responsiveness, edge support, and much more.
Our team of certified sleep science coaches has tested more than 500 mattresses over the last decade, allowing us to guide more than 145,000 people to the best mattress for them. Not only do we use and evaluate these products ourselves, but we also consult with doctors and other professionals to ensure we stay up to date with the latest in sleep science and medicine. For example, Dr. Joe Tedesco (DPT, OCS, ATC, CSCS) comes into our studio to personally test mattresses and give a medical perspective on each product.
Need help finding the right mattress?
Compare the Top-Rated Mattresses of 2026
 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | |
| Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress | DreamCloud Classic Hybrid | Nectar Premier Mattress | Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid | Beautyrest Black Hybrid XCS Mattress | WinkBed Mattress | Saatva Classic | Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Mattress | Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress | Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress | Silk & Snow Hybrid Mattress | |
| Rating | |||||||||||
| Firmness | Medium-Soft: 6/10 | Medium-Firm: 6.5/10 | Medium-Soft: 6/10 | Multiple Firmness Options | Firm: 7.5/10 | Firm: 7/10 | Multiple Firmness Options | Multiple Firmness Options: 7/10 | Multiple Firmness Options | Multiple Firmness Options | Medium-Firm: 6.5/10 |
| Material | Hybrid | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Innerspring | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid |
| Cooling | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | ||
| Best For | Edge Support & Cooling | Combination Sleepers | Side Sleepers | Shoulder Pain | Couples | Back Pain | Hot Sleepers | Back Sleepers | Luxury | Hybrid mattress shoppers | Value |
Best Mattress 2026 Video Review
In our video roundup of the best mattresses of 2026, Kendall shares her top picks for different types of sleepers, including side sleepers, couples, and those dealing with back pain.
Helix Midnight Luxe – Best Mattress Overall
- Zoned lumbar support for spinal alignment
- Enhanced cooling technology
- Plush pillow top
Helix has a line of six hybrid mattresses, each with a different level of firmness. The Midnight is one of their medium models. It has enough contouring for side sleepers, but should still be supportive enough for back sleepers, as long as they don’t mind a softer bed. Learn more in our video review.
What our tester says:
“I like the Helix Midnight Luxe for back sleepers and side sleepers. The medium-soft to medium-firm feel should give these folks the right balance of comfort and support.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and mattress tester
Why It’s the Best Mattress Overall
The Helix Midnight Luxe tops our list as the best mattress because of its versatility and impressive performance, earning high marks in edge support, cooling, responsiveness, and pressure relief. This mattress features a very plush top that allows you to sink down into the foam layers and pocketed coil support system without sacrificing comfort. In fact, the Midnight Luxe took home scores of 4 out of 5 or higher in every category during our in-depth testing, leading to an overall score of 4.5 out of 5.
What stands out the most about the Helix Midnight Luxe is its versatility for all types of sleepers. Across the board, our testers loved the feel of this mattress in all sleeping positions—the only exception being our heavyweight tester (over 230 pounds) who felt some pressure in the back- and stomach-sleeping positions. Even so, we were impressed by the Midnight Luxe’s overall performance, and feel it will be the best option for most sleepers.
Our Favorite Features
- The Helix Midnight Luxe’s plush pillow-top cover and the pressure relief provided across all sleeping positions during testing.
- The Midnight Luxe’s exceptional edge support makes it an excellent option for sleepers with mobility concerns and couples who could use the extra space.
- Hot sleepers should find relief on the crisp surface of this Helix mattress.
For more information about this bed, read our full Helix Midnight Luxe mattress review.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
Motion Isolation: 4/5
Our partner test showed that the Helix Midnight Luxe has solid motion isolation.
Cooling: 4/5
A 7-degree temperature increase after 5 minutes spent on the bed marks a good cooling mattress.
Response: 4/5
It was pretty easy to move around on this bed, despite some pushback from the softer top.
Edge Support: 4.8/5
The edges were exceptionally strong, earning a near-perfect score from our tester.
Pressure Relief: 4.2/5
Our pressure map test showed negligible pressure buildup in all sleeping positions.
Firmness: 6.5/10
This bed’s hybrid construction yields a true medium-firm feel.
Dr. Tedesco’s Notes
Dr. Joe Tedesco, our chief medical product tester and licensed physical therapist, noticed great pressure relief in the side-sleeping position, which helped ease tension in his joints and back.
“I feel my pelvis being lifted when sleeping on my side, which can open up space in the lower back and provide a therapeutic feeling,” he said.
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
| Body Weight | Side | Back | Stomach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (under 130 lbs) | good | excellent | excellent |
| Average (130-230 lbs) | good | excellent | good |
| Heavy (over 230 lbs) | good | unpleasant | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs) | |
|---|---|
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | good |
| Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
DreamCloud Classic Hybrid – Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers
- Balances support and comfort
- Luxurious cashmere blend cover
- Stable edges for easy movement
With soft foam and a sturdy layer of innerspring coils, the DreamCloud strikes a balance between comfort and support — a little bit of contouring up top and on-top-of-the-bed feel that comes from the bottom. It’s a fairly firm mattress that we think is most comfortable for back sleepers. It also has some luxury touches such as a cashmere-blend cover that are reminiscent of a high-end hotel. Learn more in our DreamCloud video review.
What our tester says:
“Lightweight and average-weight back sleepers will find a great balance between spinal support and plush cushioning at the lower back. This bed also performed very well on our cooling tests, making it a great pick for hot sleepers.” – Riley Otis, staff writer and certified sleep science coach
Why It’s the Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers
A combination sleeper is someone who switches between different sleeping positions at night. If that’s you, then you need a responsive mattress that allows you to easily shift between back-, side-, and stomach-sleeping positions while feeling supported in each. Our pick for the best mattress for combination sleepers is the DreamCloud Classic, a luxury hybrid mattress that scored a perfect 5 out of 5 in responsiveness. It also tallied an impressive 4.4 in our pressure relief tests.
Mattress expert Riley Otis noticed its bounciness right away during testing. “I found it very easy to move from back to side to stomach, even though the bed had some plush cushioning,” she said. “The cushioning didn’t inhibit my mobility or prevent me from easily rolling. I think combination sleepers would be able to move around with no issues.
Our Favorite Features
- The DreamCloud Classic earned a perfect 5-star score in our responsiveness category because we found it incredibly easy to switch between different sleeping positions on its surface.
- Its balanced, medium-firm feel prevents you from sinking too far into its foams and feeling stuck.
- The balanced feel of the DreamCloud extends all the way to its far reaches, so you should experience the same level of support and responsiveness along the perimeter of the bed.
For more information, read our full DreamCloud Classic mattress review.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
Motion Isolation: 4.7/5
Our tester noticed little disturbance in the water during our ripple test, confirming the bed’s motion-isolating ability.
Cooling: 4.5/5
The temperature rose less than 5 degrees after 5 minutes of our tester lying on the bed.
Response: 5/5
The lack of sinkage earned the DreamCloud a perfect responsiveness score.
Edge Support: 4/5
There was some moderate sinkage — but not much — when our tester sat on the edge.
Pressure Relief: 4.4/5
The DreamCloud relieved more pressure while back sleeping than side sleeping.
Firmness: 6.5/10
This hybrid mattress has a balanced medium-firm feel.
Dr. Tedesco’s Notes
Our chief medical product tester, Dr. Joe Tedesco, generally enjoyed the DreamCloud Classic Hybrid during testing, particularly for back and stomach sleeping, but warned it might not be the best option for side sleepers with existing back pain.
“Lying on my back, this mattress feels very soft and very supportive in the extremities,” said Dr. Tedesco. “If your feet stay straight up, it should ease tension in your pelvis. However, on my side, I feel like my spine is not in a neutral position, which could cause pressure buildup over time.”
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
| Body Weight | Side | Back | Stomach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (under 130 lbs) | excellent | excellent | excellent |
| Average (130-230 lbs) | good | excellent | excellent |
| Heavy (over 230 lbs) | unpleasant | excellent | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs) | |
|---|---|
| Side Sleeper | excellent |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
Nectar Premier – Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
- Both supportive and plush
- Extra pressure relief with additional memory foam
- Taller profile
The Nectar Premier is a luxurious all-foam mattress equipped with quality materials. A moisture-wicking cover and gel-infused comfort layer create a cooling, thermoregulating mattress for hot sleepers. Perhaps its strongest attribute is its next-level pressure relief. Six inches of foam work to contour sensitive areas, but the high-density foam at the bottom of the bed provides plenty of support. Watch our video review to learn more.
What our tester says:
“My favorite thing about the Nectar Premier is its great pressure relief. This medium-soft mattress is a great fit for side sleepers looking for plush comfort. It might also be a nice fit for sleepers who deal with shoulder pain.” – Riley Otis, staff writer and certified sleep science coach
Why It’s the Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
Side sleepers tend to put the most pressure on their shoulders and hips. So, when choosing the best mattress for side sleepers, we chose the all-foam Nectar Premier, which earned a perfect 5 out of 5 for side-sleeping pressure relief. However, the Premier didn’t stop there: It also earned a 4 or above in cooling and responsiveness.
When one of our Certified Sleep Science Coaches and expert testers tried the Nectar Premier, he found a medium-firm feel that’s just a touch softer than average. In the side-sleeping position, he found both soothing pressure relief at his joints and a supportive lift at his hips. He said, “Of all the positions, this mattress was most comfortable on my side. I got the contouring I needed at my shoulders and hips, and I didn’t feel like I was sinking too far into the bed.”
While the Nectar Premier should be comfortable for side and back sleepers, stomach sleepers may need a more supportive mattress to get their best sleep. These sleepers typically find the best spinal alignment on hybrid or innerspring mattresses that provide plenty of lift at the hips.
Our Favorite Features
- It performed well in our pressure relief tests, which is a key performance category for side sleepers.
- The Nectar Premier is a 6 out of 10 on our firmness scale, meaning it’s soft enough to cradle sensitive joints and other pressure-prone areas.
- The Premier is also an excellent cooling mattress for hot sleepers, as illustrated by its 4.5-star score in this category.
For more information, read our full Nectar Premier mattress review.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
Motion Isolation: 4.2/5
You should likely feel when your partner gets in and out of bed, but smaller movements will be stifled.
Cooling: 4.5/5
For a foam mattress, the Nectar Premier has exceptional cooling.
Response: 4/5
It was fairly easy to switch sleeping positions on the Nectar Premier.
Edge Support: 3.6/5
There was some significant sinkage when our tester sat on the edge.
Pressure Relief: 4.2/5
This mattress had top-notch pressure relief for back sleepers in all weight categories.
Firmness: 5.5/10
The Nectar Premier is on the slightly softer side of the firmness scale.
Dr. Tedesco’s Notes
Dr. Joe Tedesco, our chief medical product tester and licensed physical therapist, echoed our other testers’ thoughts about how the Nectar Premier performed for side sleepers.
“I instantly feel better on my side on this mattress,” said Dr. Tedesco. “It’s supportive, and there’s no pressure buildup. If anything, there’s pressure relief on my shoulder. I’m getting good contouring that follows the natural spinal curve.”
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
| Body Weight | Side | Back | Stomach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (under 130 lbs) | excellent | excellent | excellent |
| Average (130-230 lbs) | good | excellent | unpleasant |
| Heavy (over 230 lbs) | unpleasant | unpleasant | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs) | |
|---|---|
| Side Sleeper | excellent |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Back Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
Leesa Sapira Chill – Best Mattress for Shoulder Pain
- Noticeably cool-to-the-touch cover
- Gel-infused foam layers help to dissipate heat
- Balance of comfort and responsiveness
The Leesa Sapira Chill is a hybrid mattress, available in three firmness levels. We tested the Medium-Firm model and felt it was just softer than average. It should be especially comfortable for back sleepers and side sleepers. The bed also has some effective cooling technology built into it, which helps to keep sleepers cool throughout the night. Learn more in our video review.
What our tester says:
“Sleepers with joint pain can appreciate the soft, plush feel, which can reduce tension and stiffness at their pressure points. I also think back sleepers and side sleepers will be comfortable on this mattress.” – Riley Otis, staff writer
Why It’s the Best Mattress for Shoulder Pain
If you’re waking up with pain in your shoulder every morning, it might be the fault of a too-firm mattress. That’s why we recommend the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybridto those looking for relief around this crucial joint. Falling at a 6 out of 10 on our firmness scale, the Sapira Chill is a medium-soft bed that provides good cushioning and pressure relief at the joints, a category in which it scored above a 4 for both back and side sleeping. The quilted cover adds a lot of plushness to the bed and helps contour the hips and shoulders to prevent pain in both of these areas, especially when sleeping on your side.
That said, if you sleep with a partner, you should take note of the Leesa Sapira Chill’s somewhat lackluster motion isolation score (3.7 out of 5). Mattress tester Riley Otis evaluated its motion isolation by lying on the bed wearing a blindfold while another tester switched positions next to her. She could feel a lot of movement coming from her partner and felt like she was being jostled around. Since the disturbance was so large, we wouldn’t recommend this bed to couples, especially if one or both partners are sensitive to movement.
Our Favorite Features
- The Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid earned praise from nearly all of our testers for its side-sleeping pressure relief, which is a must-have for sleepers with shoulder pain.
- The Sapira Chill Hybrid’s thick pillow-top layer provides plenty of cushioning around the joints.
- Its highly responsive surface enables sleepers with joint pain to quickly adjust themselves and find relief.
For more information about this bed, read our full Leesa Sapira Chill mattress review.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
Motion Isolation: 3.7/5
The water sloshed around quite a bit during our ripple test, indicating just-average motion isolation.
Cooling: 4.5/5
This bed lived up to its name with its exceptional cooling abilities.
Response: 4.5/5
Moving around was largely seamless, save for rolling over on the doughier pillow top.
Edge Support: 3.9/5
While our tester found the edge support acceptable, there was more sagging in our weighted tests.
Pressure Relief: 4.5/5
Our pressure map results showed almost no pressure buildup on the Leesa Sapira Chill.
Firmness: 6/10
We found the Leesa Sapira Chill’s construction to have a softer feel.
Dr. Tedesco’s Notes
Dr. Joe Tedesco, a licensed physical therapist and our chief medical product tester, helped us decide on this recommendation when creating this list. During testing, he praised its ability to relieve pressure at the joints while providing enough support to maintain proper spinal alignment.
“I am very comfortable with a pillow on my side,” he said. “My hips aren’t falling into the mattress, and my ankles and hips don’t have any extra pressure. There’s the right amount of softness to relieve joint pressure, and the coils underneath deliver enough support to keep the spine straight and neutral.”
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
| Body Weight | Side | Back | Stomach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (under 130 lbs) | excellent | excellent | excellent |
| Average (130-230 lbs) | excellent | excellent | unpleasant |
| Heavy (over 230 lbs) | unpleasant | unpleasant | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs) | |
|---|---|
| Side Sleeper | excellent |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | excellent |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Back Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
Beautyrest Black Hybrid XCS – Best Mattress for Couples
- Pocketed coils isolate a partner's movement
- Advanced cooling technology draws heat away
- Deep foam layers cradle pressure points
The Beautyrest Black Hybrid XCS delivers strong performance in key areas like cooling, edge support, and motion isolation. Its firm feel provides sturdy support that's perfect for back sleepers, stomach sleepers, and couples. That said, it lacks the deep, slow-moving hug of traditional memory foam and softer hybrid models, so side sleepers and lightweight sleepers seeking plush pressure relief may find it too firm.
Why It’s the Best Mattress for Couples
The ideal mattress for couples should have solid edge support, cooling capabilities, and worthwhile motion isolation so that a partner can use the entire space of the bed without waking up their significant other. The Beautyrest Black Hybrid XCS is our pick for the best mattress for couples as it hit all these aformentioned marks in our performance testing, receiving 4.5 out of 5 or higher in cooling, motion isolation, and edge support.
Although the Beautyrest Black Hybrid XCS scored pretty well across all of our performance tests, the mattress’s firmer feel may not make it an ideal choice for people with sensitive joints—especially if they tend to sleep on their side. When lying on his side, mattress tester Kenny Timper felt supported throughout, but also admitted, “There’s really no give at all in my shoulders or hips.” Being an average-weight sleeper, Kenny recommends this mattress more to side sleepers who weigh 230 pounds or more, so they can experience more pressure relief.
Our Favorite Features
- Our testers found that it effectively traps motion and isolates it to one end of the bed.
- If you or your partner sleeps hot, the Beautyrest Black Hybrid XCS’s superior temperature regulation should keep you cool and dry.
- The sturdy edge support on this model enables you to use the entire surface of the bed, giving you and your partner more space to move around.
For more information about this bed, read our full Beautyrest Black Hybrid XCS mattress review.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
Motion Isolation: 4.7/5
Very little movement was felt during our motion isolation tests; our tester only noticed his testing partner switching positions occasionally.
Cooling: 4.5/5
With a temperature increase of less than 6 degrees during our cooling tests, our tester didn’t notice the mattress warming up at all.
Response: 4/5
The coils aren’t as springy as other hybrid models, but there’s plenty enough support to move around the mattress easily.
Edge Support: 4.6/5
Thanks its firmness and taller profile, the Black Hybrid XCS won’t bottom out while sitting or lying on the bed’s perimeter.
Pressure Relief: 4/5
Despite its firmer feel, this mattress provides some nice contouring along the lumbar curve while in a back-sleeping position.
Firmness: 7.5/10
The Black Hybrid XCS has a firmer construction that doesn’t allow much sinkage into the mattress.
Dr. Tedesco’s Notes
Our chief medical product tester, Dr. Joe Tedesco, found that the Black Hybrid XCS mattress kept his body evenly aligned and provided some contouring around pressure points to avoid additional tension.
“On my back, I appreciate the bed’s soft feel,” he said. “I feel like I sink into the mattress evenly. My shoulders feel nice and open. My head, neck, hips, and heels are all aligned.”
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
| Body Weight | Side | Back | Stomach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (under 130 lbs) | unpleasant | excellent | excellent |
| Average (130-230 lbs) | good | excellent | excellent |
| Heavy (over 230 lbs) | good | excellent | excellent |
| Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs) | |
|---|---|
| Side Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
WinkBed – Best Mattress for Back Pain
- Zoned coils for targeted spinal support
- Cooling Tencel cover and Euro pillow top
- Reinforced edges make movement easy
The WinkBed is a luxury hybrid mattress. It has a similarly supportive and sturdy feel to a traditional innerspring mattress, but upgrades like a Euro top and cooling Tencel cover give it a touch of modern luxury. Available in three firmness levels, there is a WinkBed for just about every sleeper. And a responsive and bouncy feel makes it a great pick for combination sleepers. Learn more in our video review.
What our tester says:
“If you like the feel of a traditional innerspring mattress, the WinkBed could work for you. Since this bed offered great pressure relief around my lumbar region, I’d also recommend it to folks who suffer from lower back pain.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
Why It’s the Best Mattress for Back Pain
Back sleepers need an appropriate balance of pressure relief and support to keep their spines in a straight line, and they’ll typically find that in a medium-firm or a firm mattress. In our testing, we found the Luxury Firm WinkBed delivers a very balanced feel for all positions due, in part, to its medium-firm hybrid construction. When all the quantitative and subjective scores were tallied, the WinkBed earned 4.3 out of 5 stars overall and was my clear choice for best mattress for back pain.
I also like this mattress for side sleepers, although they should be aware of its firmer feel that may cause pressure buildup for lightweight sleepers. When our lightweight tester Riley Otis tried this bed on her side, she said, “The pillow top shines in this position, providing nice cushioning at the hips and just a bit of sinkage. I did feel a bit of pressure starting to form on my shoulders after a while, so people with sensitive joints may want the Softer model.”
Our Favorite Features
- The WinkBed landed at 6.5 out of 10 on our firmness scale, which is typically ideal for back sleeping thanks to its balanced feel.
- The mattress surface is consistently supportive from corner to corner, meaning back sleepers should feel stable, comfortable, and properly aligned on any part of the bed.
- Our testers found the WinkBed’s pressure relief performance was best in the back-sleeping position.
For more information about this bed, read our full WinkBed mattress review.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
Motion Isolation: 4.3/5
Our tester didn’t notice much movement during our ripple test.
Cooling: 3.5/5
Our cooling test found that the WinkBed did not excel at temperature regulation.
Response: 3/5
It was a little difficult to move around on the WinkBed, despite its hybrid construction.
Edge Support: 4.4/5
We found the WinkBed’s edges to be very strong.
Pressure Relief: 3.8/5
While pressure mapping the WinkBed, our testers found some pressure buildup on their side.
Firmness: 6.5/10
The Luxury Firm WinkBed has a medium-firm feel.
Dr. Tedesco’s Notes
We invited our chief medical product tester, Dr. Joe Tedesco, into our studio to evaluate the WinkBed in the Luxury Firm model from a medical perspective. He rated this mattress 4.5 stars for its ability to relieve back discomfort.
“If you’re a back or side sleeper, you’ll feel even support across your entire body,” he said. “If you’re a stomach sleeper, I still think you’ll get enough support to prevent significant back pain.”
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
| Body Weight | Side | Back | Stomach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (under 130 lbs) | good | excellent | excellent |
| Average (130-230 lbs) | good | excellent | unpleasant |
| Heavy (over 230 lbs) | good | good | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs) | |
|---|---|
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | good |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
Saatva Classic – Best Cooling Mattress
- Choose your ideal firmness level
- Durable innersprings with bounce
- Targeted lumbar support
The Saatva’s coil-on-coil construction provides a classic innerspring feel. It’s a good option for combo sleepers, who will want to feel free to switch positions and avoid feeling “stuck” in the mattress. It comes in three firmness levels, so you should be able to find one that suits your needs. The white glove delivery Saatva provides is an added perk and will save you the headache of getting rid of your old mattress (they take it away for free!). For more information, watch our video review.
What our tester says:
“The Saatva Classic’s springy surface is perfect for combination sleepers looking for ease of movement as they toss and turn throughout the night. Also, back sleepers are perhaps best suited to the bed’s lifted support and balanced cushioning from the pillow top.” – Livvi DiCicco, staff writer and certified sleep science coach
Why It’s the Best Cooling Mattress
If you frequently wake up in the middle of the night in a pool of your own sweat, it may be time to seek a mattress designed for hot sleepers. These mattresses typically contain a layer of innerspring coils that helps prevent heat buildup and promotes airflow. The Saatva Classic mattress has a whopping two coil units, an organic cotton cover, and a layer of gel-infused foam right at the surface. With all this in mind, it’s no surprise that it earned a 4 out of 5 in our cooling tests.
To evaluate the Saatva’s cooling, mattress tester Kenny Timper recorded the initial surface temperature with a thermal gun, and then again after resting on the bed for about 5 minutes. He found only a 7.2-degree increase in temperature, which is a sign of fairly good temperature regulation.
Another big draw of the Saatva mattress is the coil-on-coil construction, which makes it more supportive and responsive for back sleepers, combination sleepers, and those who are generally looking for a stable surface that’s easy to adjust themselves on.
Our Favorite Features
- The Saatva’s two layers of innerspring coils help cool the mattress by increasing ventilation.
- Its plush Euro-top cover impressed our testers with its comfortable, temperature-neutral feel.
- The Saatva is also highly responsive, so if, on the off-chance, you heat up in one spot, it’s easy to roll over to another.
For more information, read our full Saatva Classic mattress review.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
Motion Isolation: 2.7/5
Our tester could feel a lot of his partner’s movement on the Saatva.
Cooling: 4/5
This bed has a temperature-neutral feel.
Response: 5/5
The Saatva’s innerspring feel makes it super bouncy and easy to move around on.
Edge Support: 4.8/5
The perimeter of the Saatva Classic is rock-solid.
Pressure Relief: 4/5
Pressure relief is better for back sleepers than side sleepers on this bed.
Firmness: 7.5/10
The Luxury Firm model of the Saatva Classic has a firmer feel.
Dr. Tedesco’s Notes
During testing, our chief medical product tester Dr. Joe Tedesco praised the Saatva’s construction, saying it was highly supportive and kept his spine in proper alignment.
“I feel very even pressure disbursement from my ankles up to my neck,” he said. “I haven’t thought about my neck moving too high or too low, like I might on some mattresses. The mattress is doing its job in terms of how the springs are placed and support, giving just enough to hold my weight.”
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
| Body Weight | Side | Back | Stomach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (under 130 lbs) | unpleasant | excellent | excellent |
| Average (130-230 lbs) | good | excellent | excellent |
| Heavy (over 230 lbs) | good | excellent | good |
| Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs) | |
|---|---|
| Side Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | good |
Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe – Best Mattress for Back Sleepers
- Copper and gel infusions for heat dissipation
- More bounce than most mattresses
- Strong edge support
The Brookyn Bedding Aurora Luxe mattress is one of Brooklyn Bedding’s more high-end mattresses. It has a ton of cooling features in it that can help hot sleepers sleep cool all night. It’s also available in three different firmnesses, so it can accommodate a variety of sleeping positions and body types. For more information, check out our video review.
What our tester says:
“Back sleepers should find enough support to promote proper spinal alignment while also getting a bit of cushioning at the lumbar region. And the cooling, motion isolation, edge support, and responsiveness scores indicate the Aurora Luxe is a great match for couples.” – Riley Otis, staff writer and certified sleep science coach
Why It’s the Best Mattress for Back Sleepers
When it comes to back sleeping, finding a mattress that balances support and pressure relief is crucial. In this position, we want enough support to lift the spine into a straight line while also cushioning the lumbar region to prevent back pain.
We chose the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe as the best mattress for back sleepers because its three layers of foam and supportive coil layer create a firm feel that lifts the hips in line with the shoulders while still contouring the lumbar region. When we combine all our testing scores, this mattress has an exceptional overall score of 4.4 stars.
The only area where our testers thought the Aurora Luxe faltered was motion isolation, which they scored at 3.8 out of 5. While these aren’t the worst results we have seen, sleepers who are particularly sensitive to their partner’s movements should probably opt for a mattress that absorbs motion transfer a little better.
Our Favorite Features
- Our mattress testers gave the Aurora Luxe a perfect 5 out of 5 for back-sleeping pressure relief during testing (and a 4.5 out of 5 for overall pressure relief).
- Its slightly firmer-than-average surface does a great job of lifting the hips and keeping the spine aligned.
- The Aurora Luxe’s plush pillow top and multiple memory foam layers give it a luxurious touch that helps put it above other similarly supportive models.
For more information, read our full Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe mattress review.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
Motion Isolation: 3.8/5
We noticed a bit of disturbance in our water test when someone was switching positions on the other side of the bed.
Cooling: 4/5
The Aurora Luxe has a cool, crisp-feeling cover.
Response: 4/5
You sink into the surface of this bed a little bit, but it’s still relatively easy to switch positions and move around.
Edge Support: 4/5
We only noticed the edge dipping beneath our weight when we sat at the perimeter.
Pressure Relief: 4.5/5
This mattress earned an impressive perfect rating for back-sleeping pressure relief.
Firmness: 7/10
The Medium model of the Aurora Luxe feels slightly firmer than true medium-firm.
Tester Notes
Mattress tester Riley Otis found that the Aurora Luxe was just right for back sleeping, noting that its plush pillow top offered a nice counterbalance to the supportive coils beneath.
“I think this mattress is an excellent choice for back sleepers,” Riley said. “It has the right level of firmness to keep the spine lifted and properly aligned, while still offering plenty of softness to cushion the upper back. I also felt some nice contouring through the lower back, which helped support that area.”
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
| Body Weight | Side | Back | Stomach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (under 130 lbs) | good | excellent | excellent |
| Average (130-230 lbs) | good | excellent | good |
| Heavy (over 230 lbs) | good | good | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs) | |
|---|---|
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | good |
| Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | good |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Luxury Mattress
- Celliant cover supports muscle recovery
- Excellent cooling for hot sleepers
- Absorbs movement so partners aren't disturbed
The Bear Elite Hybrid uses foam and coils for a mix of support, cushioning, and cooling. While designed for athletes prioritizing wellness and recovery, sleepers of all activity levels can enjoy the many luxurious features. Enjoy zoned support for targeted relief, an “on top of” feel allowing for ease of movement, and cooling features throughout. For more information, watch our video review.
What our tester says:
“I’d recommend the Bear Elite Hybrid for most back and stomach sleepers.I think these sleepers will get the needed pressure relief and contouring around the lower back and hips. This mattress does a wonderful job at offering body contouring while still helping the sleeper stay elevated and lifted as well. The layers of foam should provide comfort while the coil system should offer lots of support.” – Kenny Timper, lead reviewer and certified sleep science coach
Why It’s the Best Luxury Mattress
If you’re looking for a highly luxurious mattress that’s still fairly affordable, we recommend the Bear Elite Hybrid. This bed includes luxury features such as a hand-quilted cover, copper-infused memory foam for cooling, and edge-to-edge coils for stronger edge support. The mattress is also offered in three firmness levels (Soft, Medium, and Firm), so you can choose the feel you prefer. We tested the Medium firmness model in our studio and rated it 4.6 out of 5 stars, overall.
Before you purchase this bed, however, you should know we don’t recommend the Medium model for strict stomach sleepers. These individuals need a tad more hip support to prevent lower back pain, so they’re likely better accommodated by the Firm model. We also didn’t find this bed supportive enough for sleepers heavier than 230 pounds, who need a firmer bed with more lift.
Our Favorite Features
- The Elite Hybrid’s supportive edges suggest that it will resist sagging and general wear and tear for many years.
- The Bear Elite Hybrid’s excellent motion isolation makes it a good luxury option for two people, especially if one frequently tosses and turns at night.
- Sleepers shouldn’t have to worry about overheating on the Elite Hybrid mattress thanks to its above-average temperature regulation.
For more information, read our full Bear Elite Hybrid mattress review.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
Motion Isolation: 4.7/5
Our tester could only vaguely feel their colleague’s movements on this bed.
Cooling: 4.5/5
There wasn’t much of a temperature increase after we lay on the bed.
Response: 4/5
It was fairly easy to move between sleeping positions on the Bear Elite Hybrid.
Edge Support: 4.4/5
We found that the Bear Elite Hybrid’s edges were fairly sturdy.
Pressure Relief: 4.1/5
Back sleeping is best for pressure relief on this mattress.
Firmness: 7/10
The materials of the Bear Elite Hybrid resulted in a somewhat firmer feel for the mid-range model.
Dr. Tedesco’s Notes
During testing, chief medical product tester Dr. Joe Tedesco found the Bear Elite Hybrid most comfortable for side sleeping and recommended it for sleepers who favor this position.
“This is great for side sleeping,” he said. “The softness provides great contouring, but it is still firm enough to support you when you’re on your side. I don’t notice any pressure buildup, at all. I’d only ding this a point because I think if you’re a heavier person, you may sink into this more and, therefore, feel more pressure buildup in certain areas.”
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
| Body Weight | Side | Back | Stomach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (under 130 lbs) | good | excellent | excellent |
| Average (130-230 lbs) | good | excellent | good |
| Heavy (over 230 lbs) | unpleasant | good | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs) | |
|---|---|
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | good |
| Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Back Sleeper | good |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
Nolah Evolution – Best Hybrid Mattress
- Multiple firmness options
- Excellent motion isolation and spinal support
- Advanced cooling features
The Nolah Evolution’s hybrid construction offers the cushioning of memory foam with the responsiveness of coils. The Luxury Firm model is a good option for side and back sleepers, though there are Plush and Firm versions as well. Those who share a bed may also appreciate its low motion transfer, so you won’t be disturbed by a partner’s movements and its solid edge support to allow you to maximize surface area. For more information, check out our video review.
What our tester says:
“There’s enough cushioning for side sleepers to prevent pressure from building at the hips and shoulders. The mattress also scored highly in motion isolation, edge support, cooling, and responsiveness, all of which are important to couples.” – Riley Otis, staff writer and certified sleep science coach
Why It’s the Best Hybrid Mattress
Hybrid mattresses combine a top layer of foam with a bottom layer of coils to give you a balance between pressure relief and support. I chose the Nolah Evolution in the Luxury Firm model as the best hybrid bed because it’s achieved the near–impossible feat: It has outstanding motion isolation while remaining super bouncy and responsive. We also awarded this mattress with one of the highest overall scores we’ve seen during testing—4.7 out of 5 stars.
One thing to keep in mind is this bed’s price. As a luxury mattress, it’s more expensive than a standard bed, with a queen-size mattress currently costing $2,277 at full retail. However, Nolah usually has a 30% off sale running, so you’re likely to get a queen for around $1,600. I’ll also note that the sleep trial period is 120 nights. This is a fair trial window, but we prefer mattresses that come with a full 365-night trial.
Our Favorite Features
- Its well-rounded pressure relief performance makes it a good option for bedmates who prefer to rest in different positions.
- With a 4.5-star cooling performance, couples shouldn’t have to worry about overheating while sleeping together.
- Motion transfer is typically an area where hybrid mattresses fall short (due to the bouncy innerspring coils), but the Nolah Evolution earned a perfect 5-star score in this category.
For more information about this bed, read our full Nolah Evolution mattress review.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
Motion Isolation: 5/5
Our tester noticed no movement during our ripple test, resulting in a perfect score for motion isolation.
Cooling: 4.5/5
The Nolah Evolution showed above-average cooling capabilities.
Response: 4/5
Our tester found it fairly easy to roll around on the Nolah Evolution.
Edge Support: 4.6/5
The Nolah Evolution had a strong perimeter, earning a high edge support test.
Pressure Relief: 4.3/5
The bed was good at relieving pressure, though some of our testers wanted more sinkage.
Firmness: 7/10
The springs in the construction made for a slightly firmer feel.
Dr. Tedesco’s Notes
Our chief medical product tester, Dr. Joe Tedesco, found that the Nolah Evolution’s supportive yet pressure-relieving feel helped him maintain a healthy, neutral spine.
“It opens up my spine,” he said, adding that people with scoliosis may appreciate the mattress because it allows them to lie comfortably on either side while encouraging a more open, aligned posture.
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
| Body Weight | Side | Back | Stomach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (under 130 lbs) | good | excellent | excellent |
| Average (130-230 lbs) | excellent | excellent | good |
| Heavy (over 230 lbs) | unpleasant | good | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs) | |
|---|---|
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | excellent |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | good |
| Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Back Sleeper | good |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
Silk & Snow Hybrid – Best Value Mattress
- Standout cooling keeps hot sleepers comfortable
- Gentle contouring relieves back pressure
- Zoned coils reinforce spinal support
As an affordable option with a medium-firm feel, we think that the Silk & Snow Hybrid should appeal to a wide variety of sleepers, including back sleepers, side sleepers, hot sleepers, and budget shoppers. Learn more in our full video review, where we compare the Silk & Snow Hybrid to the original Silk & Snow, which doesn’t have coils.
What our tester says:
“The Silk & Snow Hybrid is a great middle ground firmness for those who don’t want an ultra-firm bed, but also want to feel well-supported.” – Amelia Jerden, senior staff writer
Why It’s the Best Value Mattress
We chose the Silk & Snow as the best value mattress because it’s made with high-quality materials, has excellent cooling abilities and airflow, and is compatible with a variety of sleeping positions and body types. All of these factors are impressive on their own, but the Silk & Snow Hybrid is even more appealing when you look at its price tag, which is around $800 to $1,025 for a queen-size. For context, similar mattresses on the market cost over $2,000, so this is a great mattress for the money. When we combined all our testing scores, this bed earned 4.4 out of 5 stars, overall.
Praises aside, one area where the Silk & Snow Hybrid could improve is edge support. We only awarded 3.6 stars in the category because the layers collapsed quite a bit when weight was applied to one area of the perimeter. While they aren’t the weakest edges we’ve ever seen, people with mobility issues may struggle to get in and out of bed, as they can’t rely on the edge for support. We also think this bed is just a touch too soft to keep stomach sleepers’ hips in line with their shoulders.
Our Favorite Features
- For just $1,025 (and often even less), the Silk & Snow Hybrid delivers performance that rivals some of the more luxurious models we’ve tested.
- The Silk & Snow Hybrid’s excellent cooling and motion isolation make it a great budget mattress that can accommodate couples.
- Its balanced, medium-firm feel should make it comfortable across most sleeping positions, but especially back sleeping.
For more information, read our full Silk & Snow Hybrid mattress review.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
Motion Isolation: 4.7/5
Our tester could barely feel when their colleague rolled around on the other side of the bed.
Cooling: 4.5/5
True to its name, the Silk & Snow kept a very low temperature while we rested on it.
Response: 4/5
It was pretty easy to switch positions on this bed, though we felt a little sinkage while doing so.
Edge Support: 3.6/5
The edge of the mattress sank quite a bit when our tester sat on it.
Pressure Relief: 3.9/5
Back sleeping was comfortable on the Silk & Snow, but side sleeping led to more pressure buildup.
Firmness: 6.5/10
The Silk & Snow Hybrid has a medium-firm feel.
Dr. Tedesco’s Notes
When our chief medical product tester, Dr. Joe Tedesco, evaluated the Silk & Snow Hybrid, he found that its plush comfort layer was much better-suited to back sleeping than side sleeping. He appreciated the mattress’s lumbar support on his back; however, he felt it allowed too much sinkage around the hips and shoulders when lying on his side.
“My head is supported, my lower back is supported—I actually don’t even feel like I need a pillow,” Dr. Tedesco said while back sleeping.
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
| Body Weight | Side | Back | Stomach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (under 130 lbs) | good | excellent | excellent |
| Average (130-230 lbs) | excellent | excellent | unpleasant |
| Heavy (over 230 lbs) | unpleasant | unpleasant | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs) | |
|---|---|
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | excellent |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Back Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
Latest Updates: In September of 2026, we updated our best mattresses roundup to offer more concise explanations for the beds included in this guide, making sure to highlightour favorite features alongside our comprehensive testing results.
Compare Performance Scores of the Best Mattresses of 2026
| Mattress Model | Overall Rating | Motion Isolation | Cooling | Edge Support | Response | Pressure Relief |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Helix Midnight Luxe | 4.5 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 4.8 | 4.0 | 4.2 |
| DreamCloud | 4.8 | 4.7 | 4.5 | 4.0 | 5.0 | 4.4 |
| Nectar Premier | 4.3 | 3.7 | 4 | 4 | 3.5 | 4.2 |
| Leesa Sapira Chill | 4.3 | 3.0 | 4.5 | 3.4 | 2.0 | 4.5 |
| Beautyrest Black Hybrid XCS | 4.6 | 4.7 | 4.5 | 4.6 | 4.0 | 4.0 |
| WinkBed | 4.3 | 4.3 | 4.0 | 4.4 | 3.0 | 3.8 |
| Saatva Classic | 5.0 | 2.8 | 4.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 4.0 |
| Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe | 4.9 | 4.7 | 5.0 | 4.4 | 5.0 | 4.2 |
| Bear Elite Hybrid | 4.6 | 4.7 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.0 | 4.1 |
| Nolah Evolution | 4.7 | 5.0 | 4.5 | 4.6 | 4.0 | 4.3 |
| Silk & Snow Hybrid | 4.4 | 4.7 | 4.5 | 3.6 | 4 | 3.9 |
Other Mattresses I Considered
Here at Sleepopolis, we’ve tested over 500 mattresses, so not all of them are going to make the list. Here are some other options that were in the running for my best mattress list, and why they didn’t quite make the cut.
- Titan Plus Core: The Titan Plus Core was designed specifically for heavy sleepers over 230 pounds. As such, it’s a highly durable bed. The only reason I didn’t include it here is because a lot of lightweight and average-weight sleepers may find it to be too firm. That said, it ranks near the top of our list of the best mattresses for heavy people each year.
- Plank Firm: This is a truly unique mattress from Brooklyn Bedding for two reasons: it’s flippable and exceptionally firm, despite being made of foam. While I’m personally a fan of the Plank Firm, we ended up not including it on this list because its firmness tends to appeal to a smaller population of sleepers.
- Leesa Original: This is another all-foam mattress that I find very comfortable, especially for back sleeping. However, its lack of extra features kept it off the list.
How We Tested the Best Mattresses
We test each of our mattresses using an in-depth testing methodology that our team of Certified Sleep Science Coaches developed over the past decade with input from experts in the sleep and medical fields.
And while we don’t cut corners in our approach, we do cut mattresses! We actually open a small cross-section of each mattress, so we can really get an idea of what its construction is like. This, in turn, informs some of our testing scores, including cooling. Here’s a quick breakdown of each of our tests and how they work:
Key Testing Categories for the Best Mattresses
Pressure Relief
According to Dr. Dasgupta, one of our medical advisors, “The wrong mattress can make your pressure point pain more problematic. If you’d like your mattress to help mitigate pressure buildup, make sure that it offers the right support and firmness for your needs.”
For this reason, we try out every mattress in every different sleeping position, noting which positions feel most comfortable. Our team also runs each position through our pressure map test, which involves rolling a specialized mat across the bed, reading how much pressure the mattress is putting on our tester’s body in each position, and producing a color-coded graphic or “map” to illustrate key pressure points. Blue indicates no pressure, green indicates little pressure, yellow indicates moderate pressure, orange indicates high pressure, and red indicates very high pressure.
So far, the average pressure relief score among all the mattresses we’ve tested is 3.8 out of 5, so any score higher than that is considered above-average (this is reflected in the chart below with bolded text).
How the Best Mattresses Scored in Pressure Relief
| Mattress | Pressure Relief Score |
| Helix Midnight Luxe | 4.2/5 |
| DreamCloud Classic | 4.4/5 |
| Nectar Premier | 4.2/5 |
| Leesa Sapira Chill | 4.5/5 |
| Beautyrest Black Hybrid XCS | 4/5 |
| WinkBed | 3.8/5 |
| Saatva Classic | 4/5 |
| Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe | 4.5/5 |
| Bear Elite Hybrid | 4.1/5 |
| Nolah Evolution | 4.3/5 |
| Silk & Snow Hybrid | 3.9/5 |
Cooling
Body temperature and quality sleep are closely tied. We evaluate the mattress’s construction (for instance, hybrids usually sleep cooler than memory foam beds), then use a thermal gun to measure the temperature increase after 5 minutes of one of our testers lying on it. An increase of 5 degrees or less indicates excellent cooling, 5 to 10 degrees indicates good cooling, 10 to 15 degrees indicates decent cooling, and over 15 degrees indicates poor cooling.
The average cooling score among all the mattresses we’ve tested is 3.9 out of 5 (above-average ratings are reflected in bolded text in the table below).
How the Best Mattresses Scored in Cooling
| Mattress | Cooling Score |
| Helix Midnight Luxe | 4/5 |
| DreamCloud Classic | 4.5/5 |
| Nectar Premier | 4.5/5 |
| Leesa Sapira Chill | 4.5/5 |
| Beautyrest Black Hybrid XCS | 4.5/5 |
| WinkBed | 3.5/5 |
| Saatva Classic | 4/5 |
| Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe | 4/5 |
| Bear Elite Hybrid | 4.5/5 |
| Nolah Evolution | 4.5/5 |
| Silk & Snow Hybrid | 4.5/5 |
Motion Isolation
If a mattress absorbs motion transfer well, then you and your partner are less likely to feel each other tossing and turning at night. We test this by having two of our testers roll around next to one another and note how much movement they can feel. Then, we run a more objective test where we drop a steel ball onto the bed from several different heights (each height approximates a different sleeping motion), then measure the vibrations with a seismometer. The higher the vibrations, the more likely you are to feel your partner’s movements.
After averaging the motion isolation scores of all the mattresses we’ve tested, we found that the average was 4 out of 5.
How the Best Mattresses Scored in Motion Isolation
| Mattress | Motion Isolation Score |
| Helix Midnight Luxe | 4/5 |
| DreamCloud Classic | 4.5/5 |
| Nectar Premier | 4.5/5 |
| Leesa Sapira Chill | 4.5/5 |
| Beautyrest Black Hybrid XCS | 4.5/5 |
| WinkBed | 3.5/5 |
| Saatva Classic | 4/5 |
| Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe | 3.8/5 |
| Bear Elite Hybrid | 4.5/5 |
| Nolah Evolution | 5/5 |
| Silk & Snow Hybrid | 4.7/5 |
Other Tests
Aside from pressure relief, cooling, and motion isolation, our Certified Sleep Science Coaches and mattress experts also assess other categories important to sleepers.
For instance, when testing responsiveness (i.e., how easy it is to move around on a mattress), we have people of different body types evaluate how quickly and easily the mattress adapts as they move and switch between sleeping positions.
We also test edge support by having testers sit, lie, and press down on the perimeter of a mattress to see how much weight it can support without losing its shape.
Our testers also place stacks of weights on each side of the bed and measure how much it compresses. We then compare these results to the overall average among all the mattresses before rating it.
What Type of Mattress is Best for Your Sleeping Position and Body Weight?
Your sleeping position and body weight both play a major role in determining which mattress will help you get the best sleep. Side sleepers generally need a softer mattress that cushions the shoulders and hips to relieve pressure, while back sleepers tend to do best on a medium-firm model that keeps the spine in a neutral position. Stomach sleepers usually need a firmer mattress to prevent the hips from sinking too deeply, which can strain the lower back.
Body weight also affects how a mattress feels. Most mattresses are designed with average-weight sleepers (130–230 pounds) in mind. Lightweight sleepers (under 130 pounds) will not sink in as much, so they often find softer mattresses more comfortable. Sleepers with bigger bodies (over 230 pounds), on the other hand, compress mattress materials more deeply and typically benefit from firmer, more supportive beds.
How Much Should You Spend on a Mattress?
New mattress prices vary widely, so how much you should spend depends on your budget and personal preferences. For reference, you can often find a value mattress for under $1,000 for a queen-size. So, set that as your spending limit if you’re looking to save money. If you have more financial flexibility, you can usually find a high-quality mattress for between $1,000 and $1,500. If you want a luxury bed, you should be ready to spend upwards of $2,000 (or more).
When is the Best Time to Buy a Mattress?
Mattress retailers launch huge sales around federal holidays, so keep an eye out for deals around President’s Day, Memorial Day, and even Labor Day. You’ll also naturally find a ton of deals around Black Friday and Cyber Monday. If you want to skip a trip to the mattress store, be sure to check out our mattress coupons and promo codes page year-round to stay up to date on the latest discounts.
How Often Should You Replace Your Mattress?
In general, you should replace your old mattress every seven to 10 years. However, a mattress can sag prematurely if you don’t place it on a proper foundation, or if you treat it roughly. You can also extend the life of an old mattress for a few months by adding a mattress topper.
Whenever you’re buying a new mattress, it’s important to look at its warranty, which can also give you a good idea of how long it should last.
What Type of Mattress Lasts the Longest?
Mattresses with innerspring coils in their construction (latex hybrids, memory foam hybrids, and traditional innerspring models) are typically more durable and resistant to sagging over time. These coil systems provide strong support, which helps the mattress maintain its shape longer. However, high-quality memory foam mattresses can also last for a decade or longer. Look for memory foam mattresses that feature dense foam and reinforced edges for added durability.
References
- Caggiari Gianfilippo. What type of mattress should be chosen to avoid back pain and improve sleep quality? Review of the literature. Journal of Orthopaedics and Traumatology. 2021. https://jorthoptraumatol.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s10195-021-00616-5
- Harding Edward C, Franks Nicholas P, Wisden William. Sleep and thermoregulation. National Library of Medicine. 2020.https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7323637/