- We spent more than 1,000 hours researching and testing the top adjustable beds on the market and consulting with 21 sleep experts to compile our recommendations.
- Our testers evaluated more than 15 adjustable bed brands and 30 models and recorded our findings on a 36-question standardized testing form to identify standout features and services, document issues with each product, and describe our personal experience lying on each base.
- We paid close attention to specific considerations that sleepers of all ages seek, as identified by respondents in our survey of 600 adjustable bed owners. This included price and features.
- We also interviewed recent adjustable bed customers who provided insight into their sleep journey, including how their sleep quality impacted their mental health.
- Testers analyzed survey and interview results to understand how the zero-gravity position helps real people—or doesn’t.
- We regularly update our content with recently tested adjustable bases, updated pricing and service information, and other new insights to keep you informed.
- Learn more about how we test the best adjustable beds
Key takeaways
- The Saatva Adjustable Base Plus is the best adjustable bed with zero-gravity position because it’s competitively priced, offers a comprehensive feature lineup, and has smooth adjustments.
- In this review, an adjustable bed with a zero-gravity position costs between $699–$2,562, depending on the brand and the size you need.
- If you’re worried about your sleep quality, talk to your doctor before investing in a zero-gravity adjustable bed.
Some people sleep best propped up at night. Placing pillows under the head and legs might feel more comfortable than lying flat, but figuring out pillow placement can be frustrating. Adjustable beds are a convenient alternative because you can use a remote control to elevate your head and legs.
Our team surveyed 600 recent adjustable bed buyers and found that about 91 percent sleep better, and 72 percent report improved mental health. Some adjustable beds have a zero-gravity preset Preset positions are positions that have already been programmed for your convenience. button, which elevates your head and legs for a weightless and relaxing feel. Our survey shows that one-third of respondents regularly use zero-gravity mode to unwind or sleep.
Our team researched, mystery shopped, and tested 15 adjustable bed brands and 30 models to find the best zero-gravity adjustable bed. Read on to learn more about our top picks.
The best zero-gravity adjustable beds of 2024
- Saatva Adjustable Base Plus: Best overall
- Nectar Premier Adjustable Bed Frame: Best king-size option
- Helix Adjustable Base: Most user-friendly
- Brooklyn Bedding Ascension Luxe: Most affordable
Saatva Adjustable Base Plus: Best overall
Why Saatva is our pick for best overall
The Saatva Adjustable Base Plus is our best overall pick because its adjustments are smooth, quiet, and easy to use. At a competitive price, you get zero-gravity mode and advanced features like massage and under-bed lighting. You also get complimentary in-home delivery and setup (known as white glove delivery), which is an uncommon perk.
Who may want to use Saatva: People who want a zero-gravity adjustable bed with advanced features at a competitive price and those looking for white glove delivery.
Who may want to avoid Saatva: Those who prefer a more basic adjustable bed with a zero-gravity preset at a lower price.
If you want a simple and affordable base
While the Saatva Adjustable Bed Plus is our best overall pick for those looking for zero-gravity mode, not everyone wants the other features. If you want a simple and affordable base, try the Brooklyn Bedding Ascension Luxe.
While the Saatva Adjustable Bed Plus is our best overall pick for those looking for zero-gravity mode, not everyone wants the other features. If you want a simple and affordable base, try the Brooklyn Bedding Ascension Luxe.
Saatva tester insights
Our team likes how the Saatva Adjustable Base Plus has smooth movements, so adjustments are less likely to disturb a sleeping partner. It’s also quiet. During testing, we’ve taken decibel readings of the motor during adjustments and rank it at a whisper sound level, just as the brand claims.
Our testers say the bed moves in phases when adjusting to zero-gravity mode, so the head and feet move at separate times. Phased adjustments feel less jarring than moving all at once, although it might take a few seconds longer to reach the final position. This bed also has wall alignment, which means the bed shifts toward the wall when the head of the bed lifts. So, if you’re in zero-gravity mode, your mattress will shift backward to keep you within arm’s reach of your nightstand.
From one of our Saatva testers:
“Adjusting the base from flat to zero-gravity mode takes about 15–20 seconds, which is a good pace. It’s fast enough not to get impatient but slow enough to feel comfortable. I also tried its less expensive cousin, the Saatva Adjustable Base. It operated well, but the motor was slightly louder, and it didn’t have zero gravity.”
According to our survey of 600 recent adjustable base buyers, those prioritizing preset positions (like zero-gravity) during their search also prioritize price, overall feature lineup, and white glove delivery. Here’s how the Saatva Adjustable Base Plus checks all the boxes:
- Price: Saatva prices its queen-size adjustable bed at $1,599, just above the industry average of $1,536. While this base isn’t the cheapest option, it’s fairly priced compared to other bases with similar features and services. Plus, the price includes a 25-year warranty.
- Features: This base has various basic and advanced features deemed important by survey and focus group participants, including adjustable leg heights (13–18 inches), massage, and custom preset buttons. You also get rare features, like a wall-aligning design and a companion app for secondary controls.
- White glove delivery: Saatva is one of the industry’s only brands offering complimentary in-home delivery and setup for all its adjustable bases (and mattresses). Other brands charge about $200–$300 extra.
Saatva offers multiple sizes of bases, ranging from twin to California king. We love its unique split design called Upper-Flex, which comes in queen and king sizes and only splits the head of the bed. This design allows you to adjust the head separately on either side while keeping the rest of the bed whole. This is a great alternative to traditional split adjustable bed designs and is one of the only split queen designs on the market. However, finding the right bed sheets is difficult because Upper-Flex designs need special bedding, and it lacks the wall-alignment feature. Additionally, your mattress choices will be limited, so you’ll want to pick one of Saatva’s luxury mattresses.
Get more information by reading our in-depth Saatva Adjustable Bed Review, or read why Saatva is also the best adjustable bed for older adults.
Nectar Premier Adjustable Bed Frame: Best king-size option
Why Nectar is our pick for king-size options
Nectar makes our list because it offers two king sizes (a traditional king and split king) and a range of preset positions, including zero gravity. During the brand’s frequent promotions, king sizes can cost less than $1,400, which is less compared to other king-size adjustable beds with zero-gravity mode.
Who may want to use Nectar: Those looking for a king-size adjustable base with zero-gravity mode and other popular features, like custom presets.
Who may want to avoid Nectar: People who don’t want to pay extra for white glove delivery.
Browse both brands before buying
Resident is the parent company of Nectar and a similar brand called DreamCloud. Both brands offer the same adjustable base and trial period, but sometimes one brand has a better price. You may want to browse both brands before buying to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Nectar tester insights
The Nectar Premier Adjustable Bed Frame earns a spot on our list for offering king-size zero-gravity adjustable beds with an impressive feature lineup. Couples wanting more space on the bed may want to consider Nectar’s king sizes. Plus, if you want to make adjustments without moving the other person, you can choose the brand’s split-king adjustable bed option.
You get five pre-programmed buttons (TV, reading, anti-snore, zero-gravity, and flat), two custom presets, three massage settings, under-bed lighting, and four USB ports for charging your phone. This is a more extensive feature lineup than other beds we’ve researched.
This adjustable bed also earns a spot on our list because it offers good value for the price. During promotions, you may find king sizes for less than $1,500. If you’d rather bundle a king-size mattress and base together, you can get it for $2,347–$3,297, depending on the type of mattress you choose.
Our team says this base offers smooth movement and quiet adjustments while in the testing studio. But one of our testers, who has had her adjustable bed for more than three years, has noticed some bumpy movement with certain settings.
From one of our Nectar testers:
“My split-king bed has been great so far, but I noticed that higher head elevation (like going to TV mode) seems louder, especially if no one is on the bed. Lower adjustments, like moving into and out of zero-gravity mode, feel and sound just fine.”
Unfortunately, multiple features require a lot of buttons on the remote, which can make adjustments confusing at first. It took us a little longer to figure out what each button does. Our tester who owns this Nectar base also reports pressing the wrong buttons in the dark because the remote doesn’t light up until you press a button. For example, the zero-gravity button has a similar size and position to other preset buttons on the remote. Many backlit remotes don’t light up until a button is pressed, but some (like the one <a href=”#toc-helix”>Helix</a>offers) have differently shaped buttons to help you feel for the right one in the dark.
Nectar also makes our list because it’s one of the few brands that offers a trial period. It’s hard to find brands that offer trial periods because they’re heavy and costly to ship. If you and your partner aren’t sure if an adjustable base with zero gravity is worthwhile, Nectar might be a good choice because you can return it within 60 days of receiving it.
While Nectar offers white glove delivery, it costs extra ($199) and isn’t always available with your purchase. You’d have to check with customer service via online chat to see if it’s available, and they can add it to your cart. Nectar also offers a short three-year warranty, but its extended warranty with accidental coverage (about $149) may be worth considering if you’re a family household with kids and pets.
Learn more about Nectar products by reading our Nectar Mattress Review.
Helix Adjustable Base: Most user-friendly
Why Helix is our most user-friendly pick
The Helix Adjustable Base offers an intuitive remote with custom preset positions and massage buttons.
Who may want to use Helix: People who want an easy-to-use zero-gravity bed with other features to help unwind, like custom presets and massage.
Who may want to avoid Helix: Those who want more convenient presets, like anti-snore or reading modes.
If you’re unsure
If you’re unsure if an adjustable bed is right for you or what features are most helpful, consider one of the few brands with a trial period. The Nectar Premier Adjustable Base allows returns within 60 days.
Helix tester insights
Our testers like the Helix Adjustable Base because it’s one of the most user-friendly and customizable adjustable beds with zero gravity. A complicated remote can be frustrating, especially at night when it’s dark. But this remote is intuitive despite its minimal labeling. Every feature on the remote is one-touch and responsive, so we don’t find ourselves holding the buttons or impatiently pressing the same command twice.
From one of our Helix testers:
“I love how tactile this remote is. It’s great attention to detail. If my eyes are closed, I can recognize the flat button, presets, and adjustments easily. They have various shapes and stick out from the remote differently, making them easily recognizable in the dark.”
According to our survey of 600 recent adjustable bed buyers, people who regularly use zero-gravity presets also prioritize lumbar support, custom preset positions, and massage features. Lumbar support is more commonly associated with mattresses unless you’re considering a high-tech (and costly) Tempur-Pedic base, which we cover in our roundup of the best adjustable beds. Otherwise, Helix offers what users want—custom positioning and massage to help unwind.
Unlike other beds we’ve tested that offer one or two custom presets, Helix offers three custom preset buttons that are easy to assign. Once you move into your favorite position, hold down one of the colored buttons for a few seconds, and it’ll set the position to that color. This process was easier for us than it was with some adjustable bed remotes we tested in big-box stores. Some are set by holding down certain buttons of a certain pattern, which can be hard to remember and don’t always seem to work on the first try.
Helix also offers massage. You get head and foot massage in three intensities and 10-, 20-, or 30-minute timers. You can use the massage settings while you’re flat or elevated, but don’t expect a massage chair experience. Massage modes vibrate the bed rather than kneading certain body areas. Still, about 50 percent of survey respondents who frequently use zero-gravity mode think massage is an important feature to consider.
Helix offers optional white glove delivery (starting at $139 for an adjustable base setup) and a 10-year warranty. But like many brands, it doesn’t have a trial period. Read about this brand’s mattresses in our Helix Mattress Review.
Brooklyn Bedding Ascension Luxe: Most affordable
Why Brooklyn Bedding is our most affordable pick
A queen-size Brooklyn Bedding Ascension Luxe costs $899, but you could pay less than $700 during promotions. It offers basic features, including zero-gravity mode, for significantly less money than other bases in this review.
Who may want to use Brooklyn Bedding: Those who prefer an affordable, basic adjustable bed with zero gravity.
Who may want to avoid Brooklyn Bedding: People who want more advanced features, like massage, custom presets, or under-bed lighting.
If you want more features or perks
If you want more features or perks, you may have to invest more into your base. The Nectar Premier Adjustable Bed Frame might be a better consideration, especially if you want to upgrade your mattress during one of the brand’s bundle promotions.
Brooklyn Bedding tester insights
If you’re like most of our survey and focus group participants, sticking to a budget is the highest priority. Our testers love the Brooklyn Bedding Ascension Luxe because it’s priced between $699–$1,598 before discounts, which is $300 less than the Helix adjustable base (the next most affordable option).
At this price, don’t expect many features. It offers zero-gravity mode, one-touch flat, and basic head and foot adjustments. However, this lineup is more extensive than other low-cost bases we’ve tested in big-box stores, which have only head and foot elevation on a wired remote control. We appreciate that the Brooklyn Bedding wireless remote is simple and responsive, with a great elevation range to help you find the most comfortable position.
From one of our Brooklyn Bedding testers:
“Going from flat to full head elevation takes about 45 seconds but elevates high. For such a basic base, it has an impressive adjustment range, and the adjustments are really quiet.”
Unfortunately, Brooklyn Bedding doesn’t offer trial periods or white glove delivery options. But you get a 10-year warranty, which is about average for the industry.
Read about this brand’s mattresses in our Brooklyn Bedding Mattress Review, or see why one of its models made our list of the best mattresses for back pain.
Other adjustable bases to consider
Resident is the parent company of the two brands, Nectar and DreamCloud. The DreamCloud Adjustable Bed Frame and the Nectar Premier Adjustable Bed Frame are the same base, but depending on promotions, one brand may have a better price. It’s worth noting that the DreamCloud Adjustable base comes with a 50-night trial period, while the Nectar comes with a 60-night trial.
- Price range: $1,398–$2,562.
- Trial period: 50 nights.
- Warranty: Three-year limited.
- Sizes: Twin XL, full, queen, king, split king.
- Weight capacity: 750 pounds.
From our DreamCloud tester
DreamCloud and Nectar prices often differ despite being the same brand. Sometimes, their bundle deals are about $100 apart. That difference is enough to save on white glove delivery or an extended warranty, so it’s worth checking both brands before buying.
How we test and choose the best zero-gravity adjustable beds
The Handbook Team researched more than 15 adjustable bed brands and 30 models to discover the best options for you. We’ve also surveyed 600 adjustable bed owners and interviewed recent adjustable bed shoppers to understand the purchase process and how their new base has impacted their sleep quality, physical health, and mental wellness.
First-hand testing experience
The Handbook Team mystery shopped in showrooms and third-party retailers, testing each adjustable bed’s features, including the zero-gravity preset, and interacting with in-store clerks. We evaluated brands and models by recording our findings on a 36-question standardized testing form to identify standout features and services, document problems with each product, and describe our shopping experience.
For this review, we focused on features that impact zero-gravity mode, like adjustment quality, remote design, and user-friendliness.
Adjustable bed surveys and interviews
We searched for adjustable beds that offered the best fundamentals, like easy adjustability and a user-friendly control system, so all of our options fit the basic needs identified by respondents of a survey of 600 adjustable bed owners. We also interviewed real people who bought adjustable beds, digging deeper into the reasons why an adjustable bed worked for them and what settings they found most useful.
As we made our selections for this review, we closely analyzed input from survey and focus group participants who regularly (or rarely) use zero-gravity mode. We wanted to understand how zero-gravity mode is helpful, if at all.
From our focus group
“I found genius instructions on how to put on my fitted sheets using zero-gravity mode. You can press the button, and it elevates your head and foot so that you don’t have to bed down and lift up a corner of the mattress. I think it’s so helpful on my back. I hate changing sheets, but this way, you just pop the sheets on each corner, then adjust the bed to be flat. It’s wonderful.”
Objective and honest ratings
Using our surveys and interviews, we are able to determine which characteristics of an adjustable base brand are most important, especially for those who frequently use zero-gravity mode to relax and sleep better. For example, since people who regularly use the zero-gravity setting also prioritize custom preset buttons, we compared brands to see which ones offered them.
Every model in this roundup had to earn a total score of 8.5 out of 10 (or above) based on the scoring criteria below.
| Factor | Weight | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Customer care | 15 percent | We evaluated the customer care center hours and support options |
| Brand trustworthiness | 10 percent | Our team researched the brand’s years in business and past lawsuits |
| Highlights | 20 percent | We analyzed the brand’s features, including size options, settings, leg height adjustability, and weight capacity |
| User experience | 35 percent | Trial periods and delivery options set adjustable bed brands apart |
| Affordability | 20 percent | We determined the average cost of a queen adjustable bed base with zero-gravity mode and evaluated warranty lengths for the price |
Research adjustable beds with zero-gravity mode online.
Browse flagship and partner retailers as mystery shoppers.
Evaluate each model’s adjustment quality, controls, and features.
Test zero-gravity functions.
Discuss models and services with in-store representatives.
Document online and in-store experiences.
Compare models, features, and customer service.
What is a zero-gravity adjustable bed?
A zero-gravity adjustable bed is a type of adjustable bed that offers a preset called zero-gravity mode. When you press the zero-gravity button on your bed’s remote, it adjusts your head and feet so you’re in a reclined position with your feet elevated. Many brands have included zero-gravity mode in their adjustable bed designs because it has proposed benefits, but we asked for expert input to understand the science.
“The zero-gravity position is a way of reclining that mimics the position astronauts adopt during liftoff, where the legs are elevated above or aligned with the heart. This position aids in reducing pressure on the spine and improves circulation, which can enhance relaxation and restfulness,” says Kristie Tse, a psychotherapist and founder at Uncover Mental Health Counseling in New York City, who has extensive experience helping her patients improve sleep quality and overall well-being. “While its efficacy is backed by some scientific principles, individual results can vary, and it may take some adjustment to determine personal comfort levels.”
Adjustable beds result in improved sleep
About 48 percent of survey participants bought their adjustable bed with a chronic or recent health issue in mind, like back pain or insomnia. Of these people, more than one-third use zero-gravity mode regularly, and about 91 percent report improved sleep with their adjustable bed. Although some people can benefit from an adjustable bed and its settings, consulting with a health care professional is important to understand your sleep disruptions and how to address them.
For more information, see how we test sleep products.
How to choose a zero-gravity adjustable bed frame
While zero-gravity mode can be a great feature for relaxing, survey respondents and focus group participants agree it’s not the only priority. Sifting through your options can feel overwhelming, but the following list of considerations is a good place to start:
- Price: An adjustable bed with zero-gravity mode can be found at relatively low or high prices, depending on the other features you want, the size of the bed, and the quality of the brand you choose.
- Features: If you’re like many of our survey respondents, you may also prioritize other features, like custom presets and massage, to help you unwind and fall asleep. As you research, narrow down your needs and choose the bed with features that best fit your list.
- White glove delivery: Focus group participants and survey respondents agree that white glove delivery is an important consideration. Adjustable bases are heavy, often requiring two to three people to lift and move them comfortably. Most options in our review offer this service.
- Adjustment ease and feel: Make sure your adjustable bed is easy to use and moves smoothly. You don’t want to tinker with an unclear remote control. You also don’t want your bed’s motor to wake up a sleeping partner or pet.
- Mattress compatibility: Our testers say that certain mattresses work well with zero-gravity mode and others don’t. Thicker, firmer beds typically don’t conform to the bed’s movements like thinner, softer ones. But you also might not want to buy a flimsy mattress. Check out our roundup of the best mattresses for adjustable beds for more information.
Our final verdict
Our overall pick for the best zero-gravity adjustable bed is the Saatva Adjustable Base Plus because it offers luxury perks, including white glove delivery, at a competitive price. If you’re looking for a king or split king size, the Nectar Premier Adjustable Bed Frame may be a good choice with its many features and frequent promotions. We like the Helix Adjustable Base, which has customizable, simple-to-use controls for a more user-friendly choice. Finally, if you want basic adjustability with the zero-gravity preset, consider the Brooklyn Bedding Ascension Luxe.
It’s important to note that if you have concerns regarding your sleep habits, consult a health care professional and request a referral to a sleep specialist.
Compare the best zero-gravity adjustable beds of 2024
| Price | $1,249–$2,598 | $1,398–$2,562 | $999–$1,999 | $699–$1,598 |
| Warranty (years) | 25 | 3 | 10 | 10 |
| Trial period (nights) | None | 60 | None | None |
| White glove delivery | Yes, free | Yes, $199 | Yes, starting at $139 | No |
Frequently asked questions
Adjustable beds are built to last around 10 years, which is the industry’s average warranty length. However, their lifespan depends on how often they’re used and any wear and tear.
A zero-gravity adjustable bed could be good for back pain if you find relief elevating your head or feet. Always consult with a health care professional regarding pain to understand its root cause and how to address it long-term.
Some people may find the zero-gravity position comfortable all night, like sleeping in a recliner. But some people might develop aches and pains. If you’re wondering what position is best for you and your condition, speaking to a health care professional for tailored advice is best.
Zero gravity is a common setting on adjustable beds. It elevates the head and foot of the bed to a reclined position designed to make you feel “weightless” and help you relax. Although this position may benefit some people, its effects depend on your needs and position preferences.