- We spent over 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 over 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.
Learn more about how we tested the most comfortable mattresses.
Key takeaways
- The Helix Midnight Luxe is our pick for the best comfortable mattress overall because its hybrid design provides just the right amount of plush and support.
- After conducting over 1,000 hours of testing and surveying 600 mattress owners, we discovered that comfortable mattresses should offer significant pressure point relief, especially around the shoulders and hips. This, along with adequate support, contributes to maintaining proper spinal alignment and ensures a restful night’s sleep.
- Comfortable mattresses can range in price from around $500 to $3,000, depending on size, brand, and materials.
Sleep, an essential pillar of mental health, can often get disrupted by the simplest of factors, like an uncomfortable mattress. Finding the right mattress isn’t just about physical comfort. In some people, a night of poor sleep can cast a long shadow over their mood, productivity, and overall mental well-being.
Making changes to your sleep surface, like finding the best mattress for your needs, is one way you can try to address poor sleep. Our Handbook Team survey of 600 recent mattress consumers found 42 percent listed “improved comfort and support for better sleep” as their biggest reason for buying a new mattress. And 52 percent of our survey respondents reported improved mental health after sleeping on their new mattress.
Navigating the vast choice of mattress options might feel overwhelming, but don’t worry—we’re here to help. We know that what makes a mattress comfortable for one person might not increase comfort for another and that personal preferences and individual sleep habits play a part in finding the right mattress for you. Even so, we have found some things the most comfortable mattresses seem to have in common. Keeping that in mind, we’ve handpicked the nine most comfortable mattresses based on our first-hand testing, research, and discussions with mattress owners.
9 most comfortable mattresses in 2024
- Helix Midnight Luxe – Most comfortable mattress overall
- Nectar Premier Memory Foam – Most comfortable affordable mattress
- DreamCloud Memory Foam – Most comfortable memory foam mattress
- Saatva Rx – Most comfortable mattress for back pain
- The WinkBed – Most comfortable hybrid mattress
- Nolah Evolution – Most comfortable mattress for side sleepers
- Bear Elite Hybrid – Most comfortable mattress for athletes
- Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe – Most comfortable cooling mattress
- Titan Plus – Most comfortable mattress for heavier people
What to look for in a comfortable mattress
- Supportive Care: A well-constructed core distributes your body weight evenly and ensures proper spinal alignment. Innerspring mattresses with quality coils or dense foam are ideal for this support throughout the night.
- Pressure Relief: Pressure points can be a serious problem, so it’s important to choose a mattress that can conform to your body’s curves. Memory foam, latex, and pillow-top mattresses are the best choice for these pressure-relieving properties.
- Comfort Layer: A comfort layer determines how soft or firm the mattress feels. However, the exact firmness of the mattress you need is determined by your sleeping style.
Most comfortable mattress overall: Helix Midnight Luxe
Why Helix Midnight Luxe is our pick for best overall
The Helix Midnight Luxe is considered the best overall mattress because it offers luxurious comfort and supportive features to accommodate a wide range of sleepers. Its hybrid design, featuring memory foam and coils, conforms to your body while reducing pressure points.
Who should consider Helix Midnight Luxe: This mattress is a great choice for side and back sleepers who want comfort and spinal alignment.
Who should consider other options: Stomach sleepers and those on a tight budget might not find the Helix Midnight Luxe ideal.
Helix Midnight Luxe tester insights
The Helix Midnight Luxe is our pick for the most comfortable mattress overall due to its combination of luxury, support, and plushness that feels like an indulgence. Its hybrid construction, marrying memory foam with individually wrapped coils, creates a sleep surface that not only adapts to your body but also provides the necessary support to alleviate pressure points—a crucial factor for both side and back sleepers.
From one of our Helix Midnight Luxe testers:
“This is definitely a good choice for side sleepers. The mattress’s edge support makes it easy to get in and out of bed and comfortable to sleep on.”
One of our testers found that when we used a heat map to show pressure distribution on the Helix Midnight Luxe mattress, it showed an even distribution of weight, which keeps pressure off the hips and shoulders, two common pressure points for side sleepers, reducing pain if you sleep on your side.
The zoned lumbar (lower back) support is a standout feature, offering targeted relief to the lower back, which is vital for maintaining proper spinal alignment and reducing morning stiffness. Another impressive aspect is its breathable Tencel A brand of sustainable cellulose fiber made from wood pulp, which is used in clothing, footwear, home linens, carpets, mattresses, and pillows because it’s highly breathable, hygienic, and comfortable. cover, which, alongside the mattress’s cooling technology, helps ensure a comfortable sleep temperature throughout the night. The plush quilted pillow top adds to the overall luxurious feel. While the price may be on the higher side, in our opinion, its durable construction and 15-year warranty make the Helix Midnight Luxe a worthwhile investment.
Learn more in our Helix mattress review.
Most comfortable affordable mattress: Nectar Premier Hybrid
Why Nectar Premier Hybrid is our pick for the most affordable
We named the Nectar Premier Hybrid the most comfortable, affordable mattress because it delivers exceptional comfort at a competitive price. Testers loved the balance between softness and cradling support, while the cooling technology further enhances sleep satisfaction.
Who should consider the Nectar Premier Hybrid: The Nectar Premier Hybrid is a great choice for budget-conscious shoppers who want comfort and enjoy a plusher sleep surface.
Who should consider other options: Heavier sleepers or those who prefer a very firm mattress might not find the Nectar Premium Hybrid ideal.
Nectar Premier Hybrid tester insights
We think Nectar achieved a feat here with exceptional comfort at an affordable price (it has one of the lowest starting prices in this review). Our Handbook Team survey found that price was the most important factor shoppers consider when purchasing a new mattress. We chose the Nectar Premier Hybrid as the “Most Comfortable Affordable Mattress” because of its impressive blend of quality, comfort, and value. Its hybrid design, combining high-density memory foam and individually wrapped coils, balances plush comfort and robust support. This could make it a great choice for a wide range of sleepers, from those who prefer sleeping on their back to those who favor their side. Even though it’s soft, we think it’s still supportive.
From one of our Nectar Premier Hybrid testers:
This mattress feels soft like a cloud, but it provides a good combination of softness and firmness because you don’t get stuck in the mattress.
One of the standout features of the Nectar Premier Hybrid is its cooling technology. The quilted cooling cover, along with the gel memory foam, is designed to dissipate heat, which may make for a cooler and more comfortable sleep environment.
The edge-to-edge support further maximizes the usable sleep area, making it a great option for couples or those who enjoy stretching out. Our testers also found the Nectar had good
motion isolation
The containment of movement on one area of a mattress so it doesn’t impact other areas.
.
From one of our Nectar Premier Hybrid testers:
Although hybrid mattresses often don’t provide great motion isolation, this Nectar mattress has added layers of foam that mute disturbance if someone moves, making it easy to sleep even in extreme conditions.
We also like that Nectar provides a lifetime warranty and a 365-night trial period (tied with Emma, Saatva, and DreamCloud for the longest in this review). Purchasing a mattress online is a big decision, and a generous trial window offers peace of mind.
Read more in our Nectar mattress review.
Most comfortable memory foam mattress: DreamCloud Premier Rest Memory Foam
Why the DreamCloud Premier Rest Memory Foam is our pick for heavier people
Side and back sleepers seeking a plush memory foam mattress will love the DreamCloud Premier Rest Memory Foam. The multiple memory foam layers provide pressure relief and cradle the body, which can be particularly beneficial for those with joint pain. The luxurious cashmere top also aids in temperature regulation.
Who should consider the DreamCloud Premier Rest Memory Foam: Side and back sleepers, especially those who love the feeling of memory foam.
Who should consider other options: Stomach sleepers and heavier individuals may want to look elsewhere for a firmer mattress.
DreamCloud Premier Rest Memory Foam tester insights
We love the DreamCloud Premier Rest Memory Foam mattress as the most comfortable memory foam mattress for people who prefer the sinking-in feel of memory foam. It provides a deep contour with good pressure relief, which can be especially good for side and back sleepers.
The DreamCloud Premier Rest Memory Foam mattress is distinguished by its exclusively all-foam construction and advanced comfort features. Its multiple layers of high-density and gel-infused memory foam are designed to work together to cradle the body, providing targeted support and reducing pressure points, which can be particularly beneficial for side sleepers and people with joint pain. We found this mattress soft, but not “doughy”—you don’t feel stuck like you can with some memory foam beds.
From one of our DreamCloud Premier Rest Memory Foam testers:
“Not only did the pressure maps show there was good pressure relief, but the softness of the mattress appealed to multiple body types.”
The addition of a luxurious cashmere-blend cover elevates the mattress’s texture, giving it a soft and indulgent surface. A common challenge with traditional memory foam is its tendency to absorb and hold heat. The gel-infused memory foam layer built into the DreamCloud Premier Rest Memory Foam mattress plays a crucial role in temperature regulation and was designed to help sleepers stay cool throughout the night.
While the all-foam construction may not be ideal for heavier individuals or stomach sleepers seeking firmer support, we think it remains a good choice for memory foam enthusiasts. The lifetime warranty and extended 365-night trial period provide customers with a risk-free opportunity to experience the mattress’s benefits.
To learn more, read our DreamCloud mattress review.
Most comfortable mattress for back pain: Saatva Rx
Why the Saatva Rx is our pick for back pain
Those dealing with chronic back pain will appreciate the Saatva Rx. Its zoned support, reinforced coils, and extra cushioning in the lumbar areas help maintain spinal alignment, which may reduce pressure points. Plus, the added memory foam layer provides extra balance and support.
Who should consider the Saatva Rx: Back sleepers and individuals seeking targeted lumbar support to alleviate back pain.
Who should consider other options: Stomach sleepers and those who prefer a firmer mattress for additional support.
Saatva Rx tester insights
The Saatva RX is a tall hybrid mattress designed with a large section of coils, which we found crucial for back pain relief. These coils provide targeted support, especially in the lumbar region, helping maintain spinal alignment and reducing pressure on the lower back. The organic cotton is a nice touch and adds breathability, which helps with temperature regulation.
This combination of supportive coils and pressure-relieving foam is what makes the Saatva Rx the best comfortable mattress for back pain.
Our Handbook Team survey found that of those seeking pain relief, lower back pain was the most common type of pain cited (79 percent). And pain can have serious negative effects on sleep quality.
“If you cannot get comfortable and out of pain on your mattress then you cannot get good quality sleep. Your brain emits a pain signal that will keep waking you up and lower your sleep quality.”
Michael Breus, a clinical psychologist, author, and sleep expert
From one of our Saatva Rx testers:
“I didn’t expect the Saatva Rx to be comfortable for stomach sleeping since it provided such nice pressure relief for side sleeping. But I was pleasantly surprised to find my hips didn’t sink into the material. I think this is most likely due to the use of microcoils.”
Its microcoil layer and foam encasing offer a balance of comfort and structure, making it a versatile option for various sleep positions.
Learn more in our Saatva mattress review.
Most comfortable hybrid mattress: The WinkBed
Why The WinkBed is our pick for the best hybrid mattress
The WinkBed has a zoned support system specifically designed to promote proper spine alignment, easily making it one of the best hybrid mattresses out there. It offers a combination of pressure relief and lumbar support to distribute weight evenly and promote proper spinal alignment. This hybrid mattress combines plush Euro-top cushioning with a supportive core, delivering a balanced sleeping experience.
Who should consider The WinkBed: The WinkBed is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a premium hybrid mattress.
Who should consider other options: Light sleepers who share a bed with a restless partner may want to skip The WinkBed, as it doesn’t have the best motion isolation.
The WinkBed tester insights
The combination of support, comfort, and durability, backed by a lifetime warranty, may make The WinkBed a good choice for anyone looking for a hybrid mattress. Despite its higher price, we think The WinkBed’s focus on back health and overall sleep quality justifies the investment in your sleep health.
The Euro-top cushioning offers a plush surface, while the gel-infused foam regulates temperature for a cool night’s sleep. Our testers specifically liked the extra-edge support, which ensures you can use the whole mattress without worrying about sagging edges.
While it offers outstanding comfort, this bed’s motion isolation could be a bit better! Still, with its combination of cooling, edge support, and firmness options, it remains a top contender for anyone looking for a high-quality hybrid mattress.
From one of our WinkBed testers:
“The combination of pressure-relieving foam and zoned support helps distribute your weight more evenly, while the added lumbar support may help ease back pain”
In addition to its support features, The WinkBed also excels in comfort. The Euro-top cushioning provides a soft, inviting top layer, while the gel-infused foam underneath works to keep you cool all night. Our tester noted that it felt like a luxury hotel mattress.
Another noteworthy feature is the extra-edge support, which expands the usable sleeping area and prevents sagging edges. We felt the mattress could use some improvement in motion isolation, though, so it may not be the best choice for people who share a bed with a restless sleeper.
This mattress comes in four firmness level options, allowing for custom comfort and making it a potential option for people of all shapes and sizes. We tested the luxury firm model and gave it a 4 out of 5 family score (support, edge support, cooling, and motion).
Most comfortable mattress for side sleepers: Nolah Evolution 15″
Why the Nolah Evolution is our pick for side sleepers
We crowned the Nolah Evolution 15” as the best mattress for side sleepers because it provides adequate support while still being plushy. The pressure-relieving technology cradles your hips and shoulders, two spots that side sleepers often have a problem with. Our testers loved the soft yet responsive feel of the mattress, which made moving around effortless.
Who should consider the Nolah Evolution: This mattress works best for side sleepers who want a plush yet supportive mattress.
Who should consider other options: Stomach sleepers or those who want a very firm mattress should look elsewhere.
Nolah Evolution tester insights
The Nolah Evolution 15″ stands out as the most comfortable mattress for side sleepers. Thanks to its AirFoamICE technology, it provides the softness and pressure relief side sleepers need for their hips and shoulders while also incorporating cooling properties to help maintain a comfortable sleeping temperature.
The mattress also has a Tri-Zone coil system and tailored support that promotes proper spinal alignment by preventing the hips from sinking into the mattress while also decreasing pressure in the shoulder area—which is important for side sleepers. This system is designed to help reduce the strain on these pressure points, a common issue for side sleepers.
From one of our Nolah Evolution testers:
“Although the mattress is plush, it’s responsive with some bounce, making it easy to move around without feeling sucked into it.”
The luxurious Euro-top adds an extra layer of comfort, making the mattress feel like a cozy, inviting space. Along with good edge support, we also found that it has good motion isolation, making it a good mattress option for couples.
The high-density foam base contributes to the mattress’s durability, and it’s backed by a generous lifetime warranty. While the Nolah Evolution 15″ comes at a higher price ($974–$2,079), we think its combination of advanced technology, eco-friendly materials, and a 120-night trial period make it a worthwhile investment for side sleepers seeking comfort and support.
Read more in out Nolah mattress review.
Most comfortable mattress for athletes: Bear Elite Hybrid
Why the Bear Elite Hybrid is our pick for athletes
Thanks to its innovative design, this mattress is great for enhancing restorative sleep for active individuals. The Celliant cover is a standout feature, promoting muscle recovery during sleep.
Who should consider the Bear Elite Hybrid: We recommend this mattress for athletes and anyone living an active lifestyle.
Who should consider other options: Budget-conscious shoppers or those who prefer to be more cradled by their mattress might not find the Bear Elite Hybrid the best fit.
Bear Elite Hybrid tester insights
The Bear Elite Hybrid earns its title as the “Most Comfortable Mattress for Athletes” thanks to its innovative design and technology aimed at enhancing physical recuperation and sleep quality.
The standout feature is the Celliant A fabric infused with minerals and trace elements that capture body heat and convert it into infrared energy to improve circulation and stimulate muscle recovery. cover, which is specifically engineered to promote muscle recovery, making it an ideal choice for athletes or anyone with an active lifestyle. This technology may help in recycling the body’s natural energy during sleep, aiding in faster recovery and improved overall sleep quality.
“Quality, recuperative sleep for athletes or those who like to work out will actually help prevent injuries and heal injuries overnight while you are resting. It’s a way for your body to recover and make sure it’s ready to perform.”
Kevin Nelson, a practicing chiropractor at Advanced Regenerative Health in Lone Tree, Colorado
The five-layer hybrid mattress design combines various foam types with individually wrapped coils, offering a blend of support, comfort, and pressure relief. It is designed so that different areas of the body receive appropriate support, which may aid physical recovery and help promote proper alignment.
From one of our Bear Elite Hybrid testers:
“The coil system in this mattress was designed to reduce pressure in the back, hips, and shoulders, while offering support where needed, like in the lumbar (lower back) region.”
Additionally, the cooling gel foam layer addresses the common issue of overheating during sleep. Our testers found this mattress to be responsive, but with minimum motion transfer The degree of movement felt on one side of the mattress when a sleeping partner moves on the other side of the bed. , making it a good choice for couples, whether sleeping or engaging in sexual activities. While the Bear Elite Hybrid comes at a premium price, we like its specialized features geared toward athletic recovery, combined with its eco-friendly construction and lifetime warranty.
To learn more, read our Bear mattress review.
Most comfortable cooling mattress: Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling
Why the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling is our pick for cooling
It was easy to pick the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling mattress as the best cooling mattress because of its exceptional temperature regulation technology. The cover actively draws heat away from your body, helping create a cool sleeping experience. We were impressed by the mattress’s ability to cool down in under five minutes and maintain a comfortable temperature.
Who should consider the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling: It is ideal for hot sleepers who have trouble overheating at night.
Who should consider other options: Lightweight side sleepers or those who prefer a very soft mattress might find the Aurora Luxe Cooling a bit too firm.
Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling tester insights
The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling mattress stands out as the most comfortable cooling mattress and is designed for people who struggle with overheating during the night. Its advanced cooling technology, featuring a phase phase change material (PCM) Phase change material (PCM) = A substance that changes its phase (or matter state) depending on its temperature. It will store or release heat to keep a constant temperature. in the cover, is designed to actively regulate temperature to provide an exceptional and consistently cool sleeping environment all night.
During testing, our temperature-gun testing showed an impressive cool-down time of less than five minutes and a temperature increase of 8.6 degrees after two testers lay on the mattress for five minutes (one of the lowest increases of all the mattresses we’ve tested). This bed gets so cool that it may actually be too cool for some sleepers.
From one of our Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling testers:
“This mattress is one of the coldest yet-it was actually cool to the touch.”
The CopperFlex foam layer adds to the mattress’s appeal, offering not just pressure point relief but also antimicrobial properties, helping to ensure a clean and healthy sleep surface. The inclusion of individually encased coils contributes to the overall comfort and support of the mattress, making it suitable for a range of sleeping positions. One tester noted that it offered good responsiveness when changing sleep positions, as well as good spinal alignment when lying still.
We found that the coils do a good job of minimizing motion transfer, making this an excellent option for couples. It also has great bounce and spring-back—pretty much instantaneous response—making it a good surface for sex.
One drawback we noticed was the limited edge support. Our tester didn’t feel stable while sitting on the edge. And while the mattress offers three firmness levels, we suspect that even the softest model may feel too firm for some lightweight or side sleepers.
To learn more, read our Brooklyn Bedding mattress review.
Most comfortable mattress for heavier people: Titan Plus
Why the Titan Plus is our pick for heavier people
The Tital Plus is made with TitanCore coils, which are built for enhanced durability and longevity. Therefore, it provides the supportive sleep that many heavier sleepers need.
Who should consider the Titan Plus: Heavier sleepers and couples will find this mattress’s support superb.
Who should consider other options: People who strictly prioritize a soft or plush feel may find this mattress uncomfortable.
Titan Plus tester insights
The Titan Plus reinforced coil system, combined with its cooling features and luxurious top layer, can make it a great choice for people seeking a mattress that caters to the needs of heavier-weight sleepers.
We like the Titan Plus for heavier people because its reinforced coil system offers the sturdy support needed to accommodate higher weight capacities without sacrificing comfort or durability. This makes the Titan Plus an option for anyone who often finds standard mattresses lacking in support or prone to sagging.
From one of our Titan Plus testers:
“The medium-firmness of the Titan Plus is great for a higher-weight sleeper because it provides support and loft while also providing contouring that caters to sleep partners who may be smaller.”
The inclusion of high-density foam layers in the Titan Plus ensures a firm and comfortable sleep surface. These layers work in tandem with the gel memory foam to provide not just support but also cooling comfort, addressing the common issue of overheating during sleep. The quilted top layer adds an element of plushness, balancing the firm support with a luxurious feel.
Our testers also found that this mattress has good motion isolation and edge support, making it good for couples, though the medium-firm feel may be too firm for some smaller-weight stomach sleepers. However, one of our testers, who weighed 140 pounds, found it to be quite comfortable.
To learn more, read our Titan mattress review.
How we test and choose the most comfortable mattresses
Adequate sleep is crucial for mental health, as it allows the brain to process emotions, consolidate memories, and regulate stress.
The Handbook Team researched over 100+ mattress models. Based on our research, we tested 28 of the best models.
First-hand testing experience
Our mattress testing process goes a lot deeper than simply lying on them. For instance, to evaluate motion isolation, we place seismographs on the mattress and have one partner move around significantly. This allows us to measure the level of vibration transferred to the other side of the bed. We also use temperature guns to track surface temperature changes throughout the night, mimicking real-world sleep scenarios and assessing the effectiveness of cooling technologies.
Mattress surveys & interviews
To deliver the most relevant mattress recommendations, we conducted comprehensive surveys and interviews. Over 1,200 mattress owners participated in our survey, providing valuable insights into their purchasing considerations. Price, features desired, and ease of setup were all top priorities of our respondents. We further delved into the mattress-buying journey by interviewing real people. These conversations helped us figure out exactly what someone is looking for when they purchase a new mattress.
Objective and honest ratings
To create an objective and honest rating system for mattresses, we leveraged valuable insights for customer surveys and interviews. We translated this customer focus into a weighted scoring system for each mattress we assess. Price, features, comfort, cooling technologies, motion isolation, and edge support were all evaluated based on their importance to a good night’s sleep and weighted accordingly.
Every mattress included in this roundup achieved a minimum score of 8.7/10, ensuring a baseline quality standard for our readers.
However, it’s important to remember that a perfect mattress for one person might not be ideal for another. Everyone’s preferences are so unique that it’s important to consider your individual preferences and priorities when making a purchase decision.
| Factor | Weight | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Customer Service | 15% | Customer care center hours, support options |
| Brand Reputation | 10% | Years in business, lawsuits & class actions against this company |
| Features | 20% | Size options, firmness options, weight capacity, add-ons included (free sleep accessories) |
| User Experience | 35% | White glove delivery, CERTIPUR-US certifications, risk-free trials |
| Affordability | 20% | Price, warranty, promotions |
Learn more about our mattress testing and review methodology.
Our comfortable mattress testing process
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.
How to choose a mattress for a good night’s sleep
During our testing and research, we found the Midnight Helix Luxe mattress to be the most comfortable of the options we reviewed. But we know comfort is a highly individualized and personal preference, and this mattress might not be a good fit for everyone. Before making a choice, we suggest you consider all the options on this list by taking into account firmness, sleep position, cooling features, and pain relief.
Material
If you are finding yourself overwhelmed by the number of mattresses on the market, deciding on a style of mattress is a good way to narrow down your options.
- Innerspring: An innerspring mattress is made of steel coils, sometimes individually pocketed and sometimes in layers. These mattresses are well known for being supportive and durable while providing a good amount of bounce for ease of movement. However, they don’t typically isolate motion well and might be too firm for some lighter body types and side sleepers. See our full innerspring mattress guide.
- Memory foam: Memory foam mattresses are constructed of layers of support foam and memory foam. This style of mattress tends to be softer, providing contour and cushion that hugs the body of the sleeper. Side sleepers and people of lighter weights often find memory foam mattresses most comfortable. See our full memory foam mattress guide.
- Hybrid: A hybrid mattress combines an innerspring core with layers of memory foam to marry the strengths of each of the above mattress types. Typically, a hybrid mattress is firmer than one that is entirely memory foam but more responsive and cushioning than an innerspring mattress. These mattresses work well for a variety of sleep positions because they are both supportive and contouring. See our full hybrid mattress guide.
- Latex: Latex offers a responsive, buoyant feel similar to innerspring but with more pressure relief. It’s a good choice for those who prefer more organic materials. See our full latex mattress guide.
- Organic: Organic mattresses prioritize natural materials throughout their construction, from cotton covers to core support layers. These can be a good option for those with sensitivities or a desire for more eco-friendly sleep surface. See our full organic mattress guide.
Sleeping position
The position you choose to sleep in significantly impacts which mattress will provide you with the most comfort and support. Here’s a quick breakdown of things to look for based on how you sleep::
- Stomach sleepers: You’ll likely need a firmer mattress to keep your spine properly aligned. See our full stomach sleeper mattress guide.
- Side sleepers: Softer mattresses with good pressure relief will cradle your hips and shoulders, which are common pressure points for side sleepers. See our full side sleeper mattress guide.
- Back sleepers: A mattress with a balance of comfort and support is ideal for maintaining proper spinal alignment for back sleepers. See our full back sleeper mattress guide.
Sleeper’s body
Your body type also plays a significant role in choosing the right mattress for optimal comfort. Some factors to consider include:
- Weight: Heavier sleepers may benefit from a firmer mattress with additional support, while lighter sleepers might find a softer mattress more comfortable. See our full mattresses for heavy sleepers guide.
- Age: As we age, our bodies become more susceptible to aches and pains. Choosing a mattress with pressure relief and proper spinal alignment can be particularly important for older adults. See our full mattresses for kids guide.
- Health conditions: Certain health conditions can influence mattress choice, especially for back and joint problems. See our full guides on mattresses for back pain and mattresses for hip pain.
Temperature
If you’ve ever been too hot at night, you know just how much temperature influences sleep and comfort. Some cooling mattresses come by it naturally—air moves easily through the coils of innerspring styles, and natural materials are more breathable. But other mattresses add special cooling features, like gel-infused foam and phase change material, to help with temperature management. These are good things to watch for if you are a sleeper who tends to run hot.
Price
Mattresses can range in price from $500 to $3,000, depending on the size and materials. Finding the right mattress doesn’t have to break the bank – we’ve identified great picks for budget-conscious shoppers in our best affordable mattress guide. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a truly luxurious sleep experience, explore our best luxury mattress guide.
Firmness
Mattress firmness is rated on a 1 to 10 scale, with 1 representing extra soft and 10 extra firm. There is no one rule of thumb about which firmness is most comfortable, but some patterns may help you narrow down your choices. A softer mattress tends to be a better fit for lighter people and side sleepers, while the best firm mattresses are typically more comfortable for back and stomach sleepers as well as heavier people.
Other ways to make your mattress more comfortable
Even if you love your mattress, there are ways to fine-tune your comfort level and squeeze even more quality sleep out of every night. For instance, the right pillow can significantly impact your sleep quality.
- Pillow: Consider your sleeping position and choose a pillow that provides proper neck and head alignment. For example, side sleepers typically benefit from thicker pillows, while back sleepers might prefer a lower profile.
- Mattress toppers: Mattress toppers are another great way to add extra comfort to any mattress. Memory foam can provide pressure relief, while latex topeprs can add bounce and cooling properties.
- Temperature regulation: If you tend to sleep hot, breathable sheets and a cooling mattress pad can help regulate your temperature and keep you cool throughout the night.
- Supportive base: Even the best mattress can be uncomfortable on an old or sagging foundation. Ensure your mattress is properly supported with a box spring or platform base designed for its type.
Our final verdict
Our overall pick for the best mattress is the Helix Midnight Luxe. It excels in creating a luxurious sleep experience that caters to a wide range of sleepers. The key lies in its hybrid design, which combines pressure-relieving memory foam with supportive coils. The unique construction of the Helix Midnight Luxe offers a balance of comfort and cradling support, ideal for side sleepers and back sleepers who want a plush feel with sufficient spinal alignment.
Our comprehensive mattress review process considers many different factors to identify the best options for all types of sleepers, including material quality, performance through our testing battery, and overall comfort. After evaluating a wide range of mattresses, the nine on this list stood out as the best options. Just about anyone should find a suitable, comfortable mattress in this guide.
Compare the most comfortable mattresses of 2024
| Price range | $1,099–$2,299 | $549-$1,498 | $1,049-$2,398 | $1,995-$4,390. | $849–$1,749 | $1,099-$2,198 | $1,231–$2,548 | $899–$1,998 | $674–$1,349 |
| Firmness | 6.5/10 | 6.5/10 | 6.5/10 | 6.5/10 | Multiple options | Multiple options | Multiple options | Multiple options | 6/10 |
| Material | Hybrid | Hybrid | Memory Foam | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid |
| Warranty | 15 years | Lifetime | Lifetime | Lifetime | Lifetime | Lifetime | Lifetime | 10 years | 10 years |
| Trial period | 100 nights | 365 nights | 365 nights | 365 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights |
| Best for | Overall | Affordable | Memory Foam | Back pain | Hybrid | Side sleepers | Athletes | Cooling | Heavier sleepers |
Frequently asked questions about mattresses
The Saatva Latex Hybrid stands out as the best overall option due to its balanced blend of comfort and support. It features a combination of memory foam and individually wrapped coils, providing a luxurious feel while catering to various body types and sleeping positions. But ultimately the most comfortable mattress varies based on individual preferences and needs.
Side sleepers typically benefit from mattresses that offer good pressure relief and support, particularly around the shoulders and hips. We recommend the Nolah Evolution 15″ for side sleepers. It features AirFoamICE technology and a Tri-Zone Support Coil System, specifically designed to provide the cushioning and support needed for proper spinal alignment and pressure point relief.
Generally, you can expect to pay between $800–$2,000 for a quality queen-size mattress. But the price of a good mattress can vary widely, depending on the materials, construction, and brand. It’s important to consider factors like durability, warranty, and sleep trial offers. Higher-end luxury mattresses can cost much more, but there are also excellent mid-range options that offer a good balance of quality and value. Remember, investing in a good mattress is an investment in your overall physical and mental health and well-being.
A medium-firm bed is generally considered ideal for most people, as it offers a balance of support and comfort. A mattress that is too hard can create pressure points, and a mattress that is too soft can lack proper spinal support. Both can lead to discomfort. Medium-firm beds help maintain spinal alignment and reduce pain, making them a good choice for most sleepers.
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. Sleep Deprivation and Deficiency: How Sleep Affects Your Health. Updated June 15, 2022. Link
- HelpGuide Mattress Survey. 600 respondents. Conducted using Pollfish. Launched Dec. 13, 2023