- We spent more than 1,000 hours researching and testing the top mattresses on the market and consulting with 21 sleep experts to compile our recommendations.
- Our testers evaluated more than 100 models and recorded our findings on a 42-question standardized testing form to identify standout features and services, document issues with each product, and describe our personal experience lying on each mattress.
- We paid close attention to specific considerations that sleepers of all ages seek, as identified by respondents in our survey of 600 mattress owners. This included price, features, and the set-up process.
- We paid extra attention to smart bed features like data tracking and automatic adjustability.
- Learn more about how we tested the best smart mattresses.
Key takeaways
- The Sleep Number i8 mattress is our top smart bed pick due to its many smart tech features, including sleep tracking, automatic firmness adjustments, and dual controls.
- Smart beds and mattresses may appeal to couples with differing sleep preferences, those who value advanced temperature regulation, and tech-savvy shoppers.
- The smart mattresses and beds in this review cost between $2,194–$6,090. Adding an adjustable base increases the cost.
Getting good sleep plays a key role in mental health and overall well-being. Research shows that poor sleep quality can increase the risk of developing anxiety and depression. People with insomnia have the highest odds of developing a new-onset major depressive episode during the next year compared to those without sleep problems.
“Mental health is a cornerstone of overall well-being, and quality sleep is a non-negotiable aspect. Sleep deprivation exacerbates symptoms of depression and anxiety. Prioritizing restful sleep enhances emotional resilience and supports coping mechanisms,” says Michael Breus, a clinical psychologist and sleep doctor based in Manhattan Beach, California.
In a world where sleep issues are becoming more common, a smart bed and mattress that meets your sleep needs may help improve sleep quality. A smart bed or mattress uses advanced technology to monitor your sleep patterns, adjust to your body’s needs, and enhance comfort. These beds may feature built-in sensors that track metrics such as heart rate, breathing, and movements. They may also offer temperature control, firmness adjustments, and sleep-tracking apps. With these customizable features, smart beds and mattresses may be able to help optimize your sleep environment, so you can get deeper, more restorative sleep.
Our picks for the best smart beds and smart mattresses of 2024
- Sleep Number i8 Smart Bed: Best overall
- Saatva Solaire Mattress: Best for back pain
- Eight Sleep Pod 3: Best smart cover
What to look for in a smart bed
Adjustability: One of the most important features of a smart bed is adjustability. Look for a bed that allows each side to be adjusted separately so couples can customize their comfort preferences without compromising. This ensures better spinal alignment and support tailored to individual needs.
Temperature control: Many smart beds offer temperature control, which can help you sleep more comfortably by keeping your bed cool or warm as needed. Beds with temperature regulation features are especially helpful for those who wake up frequently due to overheating or feeling too cold.
Data tracking: Some smart beds have the ability to track sleep data such as hours slept, heart rate, breathing, snoring, and movement patterns. Reviewing these insights can help you better understand your sleep quality and make adjustments to improve it.
Sleep Number i8 Mattress: Best overall
Why Sleep Number i8 is our pick for best overall
The Sleep Number i8 stands out for its versatility, offering adjustable firmness levels from soft to firm, making it suitable for nearly every type of sleeper. Its dual-zone control allows couples to customize each side independently, providing a tailored sleep experience. This smart bed’s technology, including automatic adjustments and sleep tracking, provides data-driven insights for sleepers to optimize their sleep.
Who may like the Sleep Number i8 mattress: Tech-savvy people who share a bed and want to customize their side’s firmness.
Who may want to avoid the Sleep Number i8 mattress: People who need strong edge support or extra bounce.
Sleep Number i8 tester insights
The Sleep Number i8 mattress incorporates two advanced technologies that help it stand out: the SleepIQ system and Responsive Air technology. These systems work together to provide personalized adjustments and sleep insights.
SleepIQ technology tracks sleep metrics, including heart rate, breathing, and movement, using sensors embedded within the mattress. You can view your sleep data each morning via the Sleep Number app, where it provides a detailed SleepIQ score based on your previous night’s rest. Over time, this data helps you identify trends and adjust your habits to improve sleep quality. The app also offers tips based on your data to help you make the most of your sleep environment.
A Sleep Number bed’s firmness levels are adjusted through air chambers within the mattress. Each bed comes with an air pump that can inflate or deflate these chambers to increase or decrease firmness. The firmness level is adjusted via a remote or the Sleep Number app, allowing users to set their personalized Sleep Number setting, which ranges from zero (softest) to 100 (firmest). Our testers feel that a level 10 setting is a 1 out of 10 firmness rating, a level 50 setting provides a firmness level of 6.5 out of 10, and a level 100 provides an 8.5 out of 10 firmness. For reference, anything from 5–7 firmness level is typically considered medium, with 6.5 being the true medium by industry standards.
Our testers prefer the level 50 setting. “I felt supported when laying on my back. Laying on my side felt even better. I didn’t feel like my hips sunk enough when I laid on my stomach, though, so there was some pressure in my lower back like my pelvis was tipped too much.”
Responsive Air technology automatically adjusts the firmness of the mattress throughout the night based on your body’s position and movements. This feature ensures consistent support by detecting pressure changes and making real-time adjustments to maintain your comfort, although our testers pointed out that it takes a few minutes for it to respond after changing positions. Dual adjustability allows each side of the bed to be set to different firmness levels, making it a good option for couples with different sleep preferences.
For even more smart features, Sleep Number offers three smart bases that may be purchased with this mattress. The FlexFit 1 Smart Base costs $1,299 for a queen and comes with head adjustability, a Partner Snore feature where you can raise your partner’s head if they are snoring, automatic under-bed lighting, and smart device control. The FlexFit 2 Smart Base costs $1,999 for a queen and offers all of the features of the FlexFit 1 plus foot adjustability and a zero gravity preset. The FlexFit 3 Smart Base costs $2,399 for a queen and also offers a foot-warming feature. See our review of adjustable bases for more information.
This combination of automatic adjustments and in-depth sleep tracking makes the Sleep Number i8 a highly personalized and tech-forward option for sleepers who prioritize data and customization. While this mattress scores perfect 5 out of 5 ratings for pressure relief and support, it does not score as well for edge support, which can make it feel less secure when lying or sitting at the edge. Additionally, while our testers gave it a poor bounce score, they note that the material is responsive, especially on firmer settings. However, on lower settings they say they’re more likely to feel stuck in the material.
From one of our Sleep Number i8 testers:
“Knowing you can change the firmness at any time can help you worry less about purchasing the wrong mattress.”
Saatva Solaire Mattress: Best for back pain
Why the Saatva Solaire is our pick for best for back pain
The Saatva Solaire stands out for its ability to offer adjustable firmness settings that cater to those who need extra back support. Its five-zoned latex layer provides targeted support for the lower back region, which is crucial for maintaining spinal alignment. This makes it ideal for back sleepers who need both comfort and support.
Who may like the Saatva Solaire mattress: People with chronic back pain who need customizable support and zoned pressure relief
Who may want to avoid the Saatva Solaire mattress: Stomach sleepers who may not find it firm enough to prevent hip sagging
Saatva Solaire tester insights
With firmness levels ranging from one to 50, users can adjust the mattress to their comfort needs. The zoned lower back support helps maintain proper spinal alignment by providing firmer support in the center of the mattress. The combination of adjustable air chambers and a soft pillow top allows for good contouring without sacrificing necessary support. Our testers note that at firmer settings, the mattress relieves pressure in the lower back while providing just enough cushioning to feel comfortable.
Our testers also say that the Solaire performs well for various sleep positions, offering consistent comfort across different firmness settings. For back sleepers, a firmness setting around 30–35 provides a medium-firm feel that helps maintain the spine’s natural curve. Side sleepers, on the other hand, may benefit from softer settings (around 20–25), with our testers saying it allows the hips and shoulders to sink just enough to relieve pressure points without throwing off spinal alignment.
The Saatva Solaire also offers great motion isolation The containment of movement on one area of a mattress so it doesn’t impact other areas. , making it a good choice for couples who don’t want to be disturbed by each other’s movements. The independent firmness controls on each side allow users to adjust their sides of the bed without affecting their partner. Our testers reported minimal disturbances when their partner shifted positions due to the air chambers absorbing most of the motion.
One common piece of feedback is the initial learning curve in finding the ideal firmness level. With 50 settings to choose from, it can take some time to experiment with different levels before finding the one that is right for you. But once you find your preferred setting, the mattress provides consistent support.
It’s important to note that this mattress does not offer data tracking or automatic adjustments, so it may be a letdown for those looking for more “smart” features. For those wanting more adjustable features, Saatva offers the Adjustable Base Plus with app control, independently moving head and foot sections, zero gravity and anti-snore presets, three-speed massage, and under-bed lighting for $2,498 for a queen.
From one of our Saatva Solaire testers:
“I felt a bit of gentle sinkage while back sleeping due to the cushioning pillow top layer. Definitely felt like I was more on top of the mattress overall and well-supported, but I felt contoured in the right places. It was very cozy overall.”
Read our in-depth Saatva mattress review for more information.
Eight Sleep Pod: Best smart cover
Why Eight Sleep is our pick for best smart cover
The Eight Sleep Pod offers comprehensive sleep data tracking and temperature regulation. The accompanying app allows you to control the temperature and view your heart rate, respiratory rate, and sleep stages. It also gives you a sleep score and tips on how to improve it, providing data to help you sleep better.
Who may like the Eight Sleep Pod 3: Those who want to track sleep data and adjust their bed’s temperature settings for comfort
Who may want to avoid the Eight Sleep Pod 3: People who prefer a more traditional mattress or those looking for a low-maintenance option
Eight Sleep tester insights
The Eight Sleep Pod is a smart mattress cover and accompanying hub designed to transform your existing mattress into a high-tech sleep system. Rather than replacing your mattress, the Pod enhances it with advanced temperature regulation and sleep-tracking features. The brand’s Active Grid technology in the cover monitors and adjusts the temperature of each side of the bed based on your settings, allowing you to program temperatures for either side, which is helpful if you sleep with a partner. The grid contains water-filled channels that regulate the temperature by circulating water, heated or cooled, depending on your preferences, across the bed’s surface. Water is stored in a unit called the “hub,” which sits next to your bed. The hub adjusts the temperature of the water, allowing you to set the bed anywhere between 55–110 degrees Fahrenheit
Although it sounds complex, our testers say it was actually pretty easy to set up. They note that it takes a couple of hours to prime, so you should start setup early if you want to sleep in it that night. The highest cooling and heating settings both go to 10, and our testers confirm it is noticeable, although it takes up to 15 minutes for the full temperature shift. Our testers also say the cover is soft and doesn’t significantly change the feel of the mattress underneath.
There are two subscription tiers for this system: the Standard plan, which costs $199 per year, and the Enhanced plan, which costs $299 per year. Both plans include the same features, but the Enhanced plan extends the warranty to five years (from two years in the Standard plan).
The advanced features can be accessed through the app and include a temperature control panel, an alarm that allows you to set a specific temperature along with a wake-up alarm, and the option to set a vibration alarm. Our testers really like how the cover’s sensors can monitor your heart rate, respiration, stages of sleep, and how long you sleep. It also provides a sleep score and ways you can sleep better.
You can add an adjustable base for $2,000 for a queen that adds more functionality, including adjustable head and foot positions with automatic snore and massage settings. Eight Sleep also has a mattress (a queen costs $1,899). When we tested the brand’s memory foam mattress with the cover, we gave it a firmness rating of 7 out of 10. It’s important to note that the mattress is designed to be used specifically with the cover and offered as an add-on when purchasing the Pod.
Despite its many strengths, the Eight Sleep Pod does have a few drawbacks. The water-based cooling system requires maintenance every few months, such as replacing the water mixture in the hub. The cover’s somewhat plastic feel also has mixed reactions, with some saying it feels like an air mattress or waterbed.
From one of our Eight Sleep Pod testers:
“I didn’t feel the change at first, but after a little bit I could feel it gradually shift temperature, which I like better than a sudden change in temperature.”
How we test and choose the best smart mattresses
The Handbook Team has researched many mattresses online and in person and hand-selected about 130 (and counting) of the best models to test. We’ve also surveyed 1,200 total shoppers (in two 600-people surveys) and interviewed recent mattress customers to understand the buying process and how their new bed has impacted their sleep quality, physical health, and mental wellness.
Purchase mattress as mystery shoppers.
Set up mattress in testing lab.
Lie on mattress and rank firmness.
Lie on back, side, and stomach to find the best sleeping position.
Place 10-pound ball in mattress center and measure sinkage.
Find biggest pressure points using pressure map reading.
Evaluate cooling capabilities by recording temperature differences.
Drop 10-pound ball onto mattress to measure bounce score.
Test motion isolation.
Test edge support.
Calculate composite scores.
First-hand testing experience
The Handbook Team hand-tests every mattress we review. We evaluate brands and models by recording our findings on a 42-question standardized testing form to identify standout features and services, document issues with each product, and describe our personal experience lying on each mattress.
Our first-hand testing experience for smart mattresses involves evaluating how well the mattress integrates its technology with comfort and support. We assess sleep-tracking capabilities, examining the accuracy and usefulness of the database provided through companion apps and whether these insights help improve sleep quality. For temperature regulation, we test how effectively the mattress keeps each sleeper cool or warm through features like dual-zone temperature control, ensuring that smart mattresses deliver on their promise to personalize comfort. We also examine the ease of use for app controls, automated adjustments, and any other smart features like alarms or sleep coaching.
Mattress surveys and interviews
We pay close attention to specific considerations that sleepers of all ages seek, as identified by respondents in our surveys of 1,200 total people. These include price, features, and the setup process. We also interview real people to better understand the motivations behind shopping for a new mattress and the benefits of purchasing one.
Objective and honest ratings
We use information from our surveys, focus groups, and expert interviews to determine the most important features in our brand and mattress testing scorecards.
Our roundups cater to different needs, so we filter the best mattresses uniquely to fit each review.
We also weigh the following factors to determine an overall rating for each brand we recommend.
| Factor | Weight | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Customer Service | 15 percent | Customer care center hours, support options |
| Brand Reputation | 10 percent | Years in business, lawsuits, class actions against this company |
| Features | 20 percent | Size options, firmness options, weight capacity, included add-ons (free sleep accessories) |
| User Experience | 35 percent | White glove delivery, CERTIPUR-US certifications, risk-free trials |
| Affordability | 20 percent | Price, warranty, promotions |
Learn more about our mattress testing and review methodology.
What is a smart bed?
A smart bed is a mattress or bed frame with advanced technology to enhance sleep quality and comfort. These beds often include sensors that monitor sleep patterns, body movements, heart rate, and breathing, providing real-time data through an app or a built-in display. This allows users to track their sleep trends and make adjustments to improve rest over time. Many smart beds also offer customizable settings, such as firmness control or temperature regulation, making it easier to create the ideal sleep environment.
One of the main advantages of a smart bed is its ability to adjust automatically based on the sleeper’s needs. For instance, if a user shifts positions or if the bed detects snoring, it can modify the incline or firmness to promote better sleep. Additional features like pressure relief zones and integrated massage functions further elevate the sleep experience, providing personalized comfort that responds to changes throughout the night.
What is the difference between a smart bed and an adjustable bed?
The term “smart bed” generally applies to mattresses, while “adjustable bed” generally applies to bases. While smart beds and adjustable beds may seem similar, they offer different levels of technology and customization. An adjustable bed primarily allows users to change the positioning of the bed, such as raising the head or feet to find a more comfortable angle. This can be especially helpful for people with back pain, acid reflux, or circulation issues.
Smart beds, on the other hand, go beyond adjustability by incorporating technology that monitors sleep data and adjusts the bed’s settings automatically. In addition to adjustable positions, smart beds often feature temperature control, sleep tracking, and personalized comfort settings, making them more interactive and data-driven than traditional adjustable beds.
Smart bed and mattress features
Smart beds offer a variety of features that can enhance your sleep experience. From standard features found in most smart mattresses to advanced technology in higher-end smart bed systems..
Standard features
- Adjustable firmness settings.
- Separate controls for each side of the bed.
- Zoned pressure relief.
- Temperature control.
Advanced features
- Automatic adjustments.
- Sleep tracking and data reporting via app.
- Snore detection with automatic position adjustment.
- Integrated massage options.
- Automatic lighting.
- Voice-activated controls.
How to choose a smart mattress for a good night’s sleep
Purchasing a mattress is a big decision that impacts your overall well-being, so weighing your options carefully is important. The right mattress can promote restful sleep, which has been shown to improve both mental and holistic health. With sleep playing a critical role in mood regulation, cognitive function, and physical recovery, make sure you consider the most important features to you.
Material
The material of your mattress plays a major role in comfort, support, and durability. Each type offers unique benefits, so choosing one that aligns with your needs is important.
- Innerspring: This mattress type uses coils to provide support and durability. See our full innerspring mattress guide.
- Memory foam: Memory foam mattresses typically contour to your body, relieving pressure points. See our full memory foam mattress guide.
- Hybrid: Hybrid mattresses combine coils and foam for a balance of support and comfort. See our full hybrid mattress guide.
- Latex: Latex mattresses offer natural breathability and durability. See our full latex mattress guide.
- Organic: Organic mattresses use eco-friendly, non-toxic materials. See our full organic mattress guide.
Sleeping position
Your sleeping position influences which mattress will give you the best support and alignment. Certain mattresses cater to specific positions to ensure comfort throughout the night.
- Stomach sleepers: Stomach sleepers typically need a firmer mattress to support their spine. See our full stomach sleeper mattress guide.
- Side sleepers: Side sleepers usually benefit from softer mattresses that cushion the shoulders and hips. See our full side sleeper mattress guide.
- Back sleepers: Back sleepers generally need a mattress that supports spinal alignment while relieving pressure points. See our full back sleeper mattress guide.
Sleeper’s body
Your body type plays a critical role in determining the right mattress, as different bodies require different levels of support and firmness.
- Weight: Higher-weight (more than 250 pounds) sleepers may need a firmer mattress for better support and durability, while lighter-weight (under 130 pounds) sleepers often need a softer mattress for pressure relief. See our full mattresses for heavy sleepers guide.
- Age: Children and teens need mattresses that support their growing bodies. See our full mattresses for kids guide.
- Health conditions: Some health issues require specific support, such as back or hip pain. See our full guides on mattresses for back pain and mattresses for hip pain.
Temperature
Temperature regulation is an essential factor for a good night’s sleep. If you tend to sleep hot, look for a smart mattress with cooling technology to keep you comfortable throughout the night. For more information, see our best cooling mattress guide.
Price
Mattresses range widely in price, so it’s important to find one that fits your budget without compromising quality. On average, you can expect to spend anywhere from around $1,500–$6,000, depending on the materials and technology. Check out our best affordable mattress and best luxury mattress guides for more options.
Our final verdict
Smart mattresses offer a unique blend of comfort and technology designed to improve sleep quality and promote overall wellness. Every mattress on this list offers unique features that cater to different types of sleepers.
The Sleep Number i8 stands out as the best overall, with its fully adjustable firmness settings, dual controls, and responsive technology that adapts to your movements. It’s ideal for couples and anyone seeking customizable comfort. The Saatva Solaire is a good choice for back pain relief, with its zoned lower back support and 50 firmness levels, providing great spinal alignment and pressure relief for a wide range of sleepers. For those who prioritize tech, the Eight Sleep Pod offers advanced sleep tracking and dual-zone cooling and heating, making it an option for couples with differing sleep preferences to consider.
Compare the best smart beds and mattresses of 2024
| Price | $2,799–$5,399 | $3,295–$6,590 | $2,194–$2,495 |
| Our firmness rating* | Adjustable | Adjustable | N/A |
| Material | Foam and air chambers | Foam and air chambers | Water chambers |
| Warranty | 15 years | Lifetime | 2 or 5 years |
| Trial period | 100 nights | 365 nights | 30 nights |
| Best for | Tech-savvy couples | Back pain | Data tracking |
*Our firmness rating is based on our personal testing
Smart beds can be worth the investment if you’re looking to improve your sleep quality with customizable features. These beds offer benefits like adjustable firmness, temperature control, and sleep tracking, all of which help create an optimized sleep environment. For people who struggle with sleep issues, such as insomnia or discomfort, data-driven insights and automatic adjustments may help you get better sleep. Of course, if you’re having trouble sleeping, you should talk to your doctor.
The primary downside of smart beds is their cost, as they tend to be more expensive than traditional mattresses. The technology used in these beds may also have a learning curve, and some features might not appeal to all sleepers. Technical malfunctions, which could impact the functionality of key features like app integration or sensor accuracy, are also possible.
Yes, smart beds can be beneficial for people with back pain. Many smart beds allow you to adjust the firmness or incline to better support your spine, which can relieve pressure and promote proper alignment. Some models even track your sleep position and suggest adjustments to help reduce discomfort.
- Okun, M. L., Mancuso, R. A., Hobel, C. J., Schetter, C. D., & Coussons-Read, M. (2018). Poor sleep quality increases symptoms of depression and anxiety in postpartum women. Journal of behavioral medicine, 41(5), 703–710. Link
- Franzen, P. L., & Buysse, D. J. (2008). Sleep disturbances and depression: risk relationships for subsequent depression and therapeutic implications. Dialogues in clinical neuroscience, 10(4), 473–481. Link
- Garland, S. N., Rowe, H., Repa, L. M., Fowler, K., Zhou, E. S., & Grandner, M. A. (2018). A decade’s difference: 10-year change in insomnia symptom prevalence in Canada depends on sociodemographics and health status. Sleep health, 4(2), 160–165. Link