1. The quick list
2. Best mattress overall
3. Best value for money
4. Best mattress for side sleepers
5. Best value luxury hybrid
6. Best dual-sided mattress
7. Best under $500
8. Best mattress for sore joints
9. Best budget cooling mattress
10. Best organic mattress
11. Best under $300
12. How to choose
13. How we test
If you want to find the best mattress, we're here to make it happen, fast. For most people, buying a new mattress can feel like a shot in the dark, with loads of options to choose from and so many price points. Where do you even start?
Here's where you start, and we can have you done in just a few minutes. We spend every day reviewing and researching mattresses and we know what's what when it comes to shopping for a new one. In our buying advice section we set out what you need to think about when you buy a mattress, and what kind of mattress you should be looking for according to your needs and preferences.
Once you're armed with that information, check out our expertly-curated selection of the best mattresses available now. Our quick list gives you the basics and may be all you need; however if you want to know more you can click through to our more detailed write-ups that'll give you all the facts, good and bad. And if you just need a super-quick fits-all recommendation, you absolutely can't go wrong with our top choice: the Saatva Classic, which has a mix of foam and springs and delivers hotel luxury at a relatively affordable price.
Speaking of price, if you're not sure how much you spend, think of it like this: you'll likely be spending about a third of the next six years sleeping on your new mattress, so spend accordingly. But you shouldn't have to pay full price; mattress sales are a regular thing and it's rare that you'll get charged the MSRP; we're constantly tracking price and we'll indicate how much you should realistically pay for each bed, as well as pointing you at the best current deals.
Got all that? Read on for our official best mattress ranking for 2023.
The quick list
Don't want to comb through a load of information to find the best mattress? That's fine; instead just check this at-a-glance overview, which picks out the most important features of each model so you can quickly narrow down your options or even pinpoint your perfect choice, then jump down the page for a more detailed look.
The best all-rounder
The Saatva Classic delivers hotel-level luxury without the premium price tag. This hybrid innerspring will suit most people and any sleep style.
Best value for money
The all-foam Nectar is good quality and offers excellent value for money. It'll mold to your shape to cradle and support you as you sleep.
Best for side sleepers
This softer hybrid mattress has a plush sleep surface to cushion your joints when lying on your side. It's also great at absorbing motion.
Best value luxury hybrid
The DreamCloud is a luxurious hybrid that costs a bit less than the top-rated Saatva Classic, and the extras are excellent too. It's a great all-rounder.
Best dual-sided mattress
The Layla Hybrid is two mattresses in one; its soft side is ideal for side sleepers and its firm side will suit back and stomach sleepers.
The best mattress under $500
The Allswell is very cheap for an innerspring hybrid, and boasts extras in line with mid-range models. Great for the spare bedroom.
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The best mattress for joint pain
The unique 'Purple Grid' flexes to your body shape, providing excellent pressure relief without trapping heat. The best choice for sore joints.
The best budget cooling mattress
The Chill delivers good temperature regulation and contouring comfort at a much lower price than a specialist cooling bed.
The best organic mattress
Available in two firmness options, this certified organic mattress uses latex for contouring support and springs for bounce.
The best mattress under $300
This basic option delivers good pressure relief for a (very) low price. It's good value, and would be fine for occasional use.
The best mattresses for 2023
Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.
Below you'll find full write-ups for each of the best mattresses in our list. We've tested each one extensively, so you can be sure that our recommendations can be trusted.
Best mattress overall
✅ You want to be able to customize your bed: the Classic is available in three sleep feels and two heights, which means you can tailor it to your exact preferences.
✅ You suffer from back pain: the design is geared towards keeping your back aligned, plus the 'spinal zone technology' is approved by the Congress of Chiropractic State Associations.
✅ You want a luxurious mattress: with a pillowy cushion top and high build quality, the Classic feels like a hotel bed. The taller option is particularly luxurious.
✅ You sleep warm: being predominantly coils rather than foam, this mattress is breathable and won't trap body heat.
❌ You like the hug of memory foam: there's minimal foam here, so you won't get that sink-in feel. If that's your preference, check out the Nectar Original.
❌ You're on a tight budget: while the Saatva Classic is great value for the quality, it's not the cheapest bed. A similar, but lower-priced alternative to consider is the DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid.
❌ You're very short on space: the Classic is delivered flat (rather than vacuum-packed and rolled), so you'll need a bit of maneuvering room. White glove delivery to your bedroom is included for free, though.
The Saatva Classic is an outstanding all-rounder that'll suit most people. It delivers great temperature regulation and excellent comfort and support in any position. If you're looking for hotel-quality luxury without the premium price tag, we think the Saatva Classic is the best mattress you can buy. ★★★★½
What you need to know
The Saatva Classic is a luxury innerspring hybrid mattress, and this premium sleep brand's flagship model. It comes in three different firmness levels and two heights, so you can customize it to your preferences.
Materials: The sleep surface is a cushiony Euro pillow top, which sits on a middle layer of pocketed steel coils, and a sturdy base layer of more coils. Foam rails around the perimeter bolster the edges, and there's also an extra bit, sandwiched between the pocket coils and pillow top, geared specifically towards supporting your lumbar (it includes 'spinal wire' and also high-density memory foam).
Firmness and comfort: A combination of responsive springs and a cushiony pillow top (with not much foam) mean the Saatva Classic has a buoyant sleep surface; you'll lie on top of this mattress rather than sinking in. Our testers found it offered an excellent balance of pressure relief and support in all sleeping positions.
A standout feature is the ability to pick between three different sleep feels. The most popular is the Luxury Firm (the middle option), which will suit most sleep styles and body types. Lighter people and side sleepers who want extra give around their hips and shoulders could consider the Plush Soft option, while the Firm version is ideal for stomach and back sleepers, plus anyone who wants extra support. We tested this version out, and found it hugely comfortable, with the pillow top providing a touch of sink-in softness, so it doesn't feel like you're lying on a board.
The Saatva Classic is a good pick for anyone who suffers from back pain; there are a number of features designed to keep your spine properly aligned and supported as you sleep, and the patented 'Lumbar Zone Technology' has been given the seal of approval from the Congress of Chiropractic State Associations.
Performance: The Classic scored highly in all areas in our review. It sleeps nice and cool, there was no off-gassing smell, and edge support was strong. While our testers found it absorbed motion well, some reviews report a degree of motion transfer in the softer versions of this mattress.
Value for money: Although MSRP crept up over the past 12 months or so, it's still competitively priced for a luxury hybrid, starting from $995 for a twin. The extras match the best in the market – you've got a full year to test it out, and a lifetime warranty. A nice touch is that there's free white glove delivery to a room of choice (useful because this bed is delivered flat, not rolled), and Saatva will take your old mattress away for free if you need, too. We're not wild about the $99 fee for returns, though.
Read the full review: Saatva Classic mattress review
Best value for money
✅ You're a side sleeper: there's plenty of give here, to allow the shoulders and hips to sink in comfortably in a side-sleeping position.
✅ You suffer from sore joints: memory foam is great for relieving pressure, as it contours to your exact shape, cushioning your joints as you sleep.
✅ You share a bed with a wriggler: the Nectar is excellent at absorbing movements, which means you won't be disturbed by a restless partner.
❌ You sleep hot: the Nectar can sleep slightly warm. Hybrids like the Saatva Classic sleep cooler, or if you want all-foam, try the Cocoon by Sealy Chill.
❌ You need extra support: heavier bodies, stomach sleepers and some back sleepers will need a firmer mattress to keep their spine properly aligned. The Loom & Leaf is sturdier and available in three firmness levels.
❌ You like a responsive sleep surface: memory foam has a slightly quicksand feel, which can make moving around more difficult. Try an innerspring or hybrid model in you want something more responsive.
If you love the hug of memory foam and want superb value for money, the Nectar Memory Foam mattress is our top choice. It'll suit most sleepers, but it's an especially good choice if you like to lie on your side, with the body-contouring foam relieving pressure on the sleeper's joints. ★★★★
What you need to know
The Nectar Memory Foam is an ultra-popular, all-foam mattress that'll suit a wide range of sleepers. The brand's original model and the cheapest in the current lineup, the Nectar sits in the mid-range market, but you get an awful lot for that relatively affordable price.
Materials: The Nectar mattress is a 12-inch tall mattress that comprises five layers. At the top is a cover made from polyethylene, designed to absorb and then disperse body heat. Beneath this you'll find a three-inch layer of body-molding memory foam, infused with gel (again to promote cooling), on top of three inches of bouncy foam. At the base is a thick layer of study foam, with a non-slip bottom cover.
Firmness and comfort: If you're looking for that distinctive memory foam 'hug', the Nectar will deliver. This is a mattress you sink into rather than lying on top of – the mattress contours to your body, relieving tension at pressure points. That makes it an especially good choice for side sleepers and anyone who suffers from joint pain.
We think that stomach sleepers and heavier people will find this mattress too soft to provide proper support, though. Note also that the slow-moving memory foam can make changing position a little harder than you'd find with a model that features a layer of springs.
Performance: The Nectar scored well in almost all areas of our review. As well as delivering good support and pressure relief for most sleepers, it excels when it comes to motion isolation, making the Nectar a great choice for anyone with a restless partner – you won't be disturbed by them tossing and turning, or getting in and out of bed. All-foam mattresses can trap body heat, and while the Nectar is by no means the worst for this, it can still sleep slightly warm. If you know you sleep hot, consider a hybrid instead.
Value for money: This is officially a mid-range mattress, but you can basically ignore those MSRPs as this mattress is always sold with a major discount, and typically you'll get a bundle of free sleep accessories too. The extras are up there with the best on the market: a year-long mattress trial and a forever warranty.
Read the full review: Nectar Mattress review
Best mattress for side sleepers
✅ You're a side sleeper: the softer sleep surface provides plenty of sink-in to keep side sleepers comfy and properly aligned.
✅ You share a bed: the Helix Midnight will absorb any movements from a shifting bedmate.
✅ You suffer from sore joints: we found the pressure relief excellent here, with the mattress providing ample cushioning around joints.
❌ You lie on your front: the softer feel won't provide enough support for those who lie on their stomachs. The firmer Nectar Original is a better choice for stomach sleepers.
❌ You prefer a responsive mattress: if you know you prefer more push-back from your mattress, this isn't the right choice for you. Try an innerspring or hybrid, like the Saatva Classic.
❌ You need a sturdy edge: the edge support is only average here, so if you need something firmer – to push up off when getting up, for instance – look elsewhere.
The Helix Midnight has a softer sleep surface that makes it ideal for side sleepers. We were also particularly impressed with the temperature regulation and motion isolation on offer here. Be aware it might be softer than expected for some people. ★★★★½
What you need to know
The Helix Midnight is mid-market hybrid mattress that we think is the best choice for side sleepers, as well those who toss and turn at night. Our pick is the original Helix Midnight, but there is also the option to upgrade to the Midnight Luxe, which is thicker, more luxurious, and promises better lumbar support and breathability.
Materials: The Helix Midnight is 12-inch thick hybrid that includes four support layers. At the very top you'll find a soft and stretchy knitted cover (it's breathable, but there is the option to upgrade to a specialist cooling cover if you know you struggle with overheating). Beneath this there's a memory foam layer, to relieve pressure along the shoulders and hips in that side sleeper position. A supportive polyfoam layer below that helps prevent you from sinking in too deeply. These foam layers are followed by hundreds of eight-inch steel pocket coils, which provide extra support and improved airflow, as well as a little bounce. Finally, a layer of DuraDense Foam provides solid base support and durability.
Firmness and comfort: The Helix Midnight doesn't feel completely like a memory foam mattress or like a traditional innerspring – it falls somewhere in between, making it a good option for couples with different comfort preferences. In our tests, we judged that the softer sleep surface might not provide enough support for those who lie on their front, or for heavier people (over 250lb).
Performance: This mattress performed well in all of our tests; it offers strong motion isolation (important if you share a bed) and pressure relief (great if you suffer sore joints), as well as good temperature regulation, even without that extra cooling cover. One area where it was slightly less impressive – although still very acceptable – was edge support. If you need a bed you can use every inch of, and sit on the edge of comfortably, there are better picks in our list.
Value for money: Like many of the beds in our ranking, the Helix Midnight increased in price over 2022, but it still remains competitive, with a queen coming in at just under $1,100. This brand has an evergreen tiered discount offer that knocks $150 off the queen size. Around major sales events, these discounts tend to increase, so if you can wait until a holiday day to buy, it might pay off.
Read the full review: Helix Midnight mattress review
Best value luxury hybrid
✅ You suffer from joint pain: this bed has a thick layer of different foams near the top, which meld around your body to relieve pressure.
✅ You share a bed: the DreamCloud delivers outstanding motion isolation – so if you have a wriggly sleep partner, you won't feel their movements.
✅ You're in need of bedding: the regular DreamCloud deal bundles in a whole load of accessories, so you can get your entire sleep setup sorted in one go.
❌ You're a lightweight side sleeper: light individuals might find this bed too hard, especially in a side lying position. Consider the Helix Midnight if that's you.
❌ You're not sure what firmness will suit you: while many luxury mattresses (such as the Saatva Classic) come in a few different firmness options, and let you swap if you pick wrong, the DreamCloud is a one-and-done kind of thing.
❌ You don't want a deep mattress: at 14", the DreamCloud is thicker than average, which might require you to buy deep sheets.
The DreamCloud mattress is a high-quality hybrid that delivers hotel-level luxury for an impressively affordable price (that's even better value with the bedding bundle). It offers excellent pressure relief, temperature regulation, and motion isolation, with a medium-firm feel will suit most side and back sleepers. ★★★★½
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2. DreamCloud deals and sales
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4. Nectar vs DreamCloud: which is better for you?
What you need to know
If you're looking for a luxurious hybrid mattress, but don't have loads of cash to splash, the 14-inch tall DreamCloud could be the best mattress for you. The cheapest (and best-selling) of three bed-in-a-box hybrids from this brand, this springs-and-foam model delivers a lot for a relatively affordable price. It'll deliver a similar level of hotel-like luxury to the Saatva Classic at #1, but with more of that memory foam hug.
Materials: This hybrid has five layers. At the top you'll find a tufted, luxe-feeling soft-touch cover made from quilted foam and cashmere. Beneath this are three different types of foams (totaling 4.5 inches), including a top layer that's infused with gel to help regulate temperature and a 'transition layer' geared towards ensuring your spine stays correctly aligned as you snooze. At the base are 8-inch wrapped coils, which are reinforced around the perimeter.
Firmness and comfort: We rated this bed a 7.5 out of 10 in firmness – that'll suit most people, although if you're light in weight or lie on your side, you could consider a softer option such as the Helix Midnight. The thick memory foam layers deliver plenty of pressure relief, and cradle the sleeper's shoulders, hips, and knees.
Performance: The DreamCloud mattress is an excellent choice for anyone who likes the sound of a pressure-relieving memory foam, but wants something slightly more responsive. You're getting the best of both worlds here: the coils make it bouncier and easier to move about on than something like the Nectar Memory Foam mattress, while the thicker foam layers means it also isolates motion better than something like the Saatva Classic. We found this mattress does a superb job of regulating temperature, and if you do get a bit clammy, the quilted foam and cashmere top layer is designed to wick away moisture. Edge support is reliable too, so you'll be able to sleep right up to the perimeter of the bed without fear of rolling off.
Value for money: You can basically ignore MSRP here, as the DreamCloud is always on sale, often with 25% off (which takes the queen-sized DreamCloud Mattress to around $999). Based on that, this mattress is competitively priced among other luxury hybrids, and among the most affordable mattresses in its class. The extras are also in line with much higher-end mattresses: you get a full year's sleep trial and a lifetime warranty. Finally, the regular deal includes a big bedding bundle, which boosts value further.
Read the full review: DreamCloud mattress review
Best dual-sided mattress
✅ You need a choice of comfort levels: the Layla Hybrid has a flippable design, enabling you to switch between a soft and firmer side.
✅ You tend to sleep warm: this mattress features copper-gel memory foam with cooling properties, as well as an airflow-promoting design,
✅ You share with a restless sleeper: the Layla Hybrid delivers impressive motion isolation on both sides, so you won't be disturbed by a restless partner.
❌ You need a cooling mattress: the Layla Hybrid has good cooling features, but if you're specifically after a cooling mattress, try with the Cocoon by Sealy Chill.
❌ You know what firmness you need: the beauty of the Layla Hybrid is that you can swap between firm and soft sides, but that's a little pointless if you know you're never going to flip it to make the most of them.
❌ You intend to move it single-handed: this is not a light mattress; our tester struggled getting it into her home and had to enlist the help of a neighbor in setting it up.
The Layla Hybrid mattress is a versatile upper-mid-range bed that can be flipped to provide two firmness levels. This versatility, plus great motion isolation and edge support, makes it a great choice for sleepers of all sizes and sleep styles. ★★★★½
What you need to know
Not entirely sure what level of firmness you need? The Layla Hybrid could be the choice for you; it features a flippable design with different firmness options on each side, so you can try them both and go with whichever feels best to you. Whichever side you opt for you'll get excellent support and motion isolation, and the Layla Hybrid has some decent cooling qualities so you shouldn't overheat in the night.
Materials: There are five layers to this hybrid. In the middle there's a sprung support core made up of six-inch pocket coils, with 14 gauge coils at the center and a double row of 16 gauge coils around the edges. Then on the firm side there's 1.5 inches of poly foam, followed by a one-inch layer of copper-gel memory foam, while on the soft side you'll two inches of poly foam followed by 2.5 inches of copper-gel memory foam.
Firmness and comfort: We rate the firm side of this mattress as a 6.5 to 7 out of ten for firmness, making it a good choice for back sleepers and even for side sleepers, with noticeable pressure relief. Its soft side we'd rate as a 4.5, delivering instant contouring and pressure relief and making it a much better option for side sleepers. although we noted it was comfortable in all sleeping positions, even for stomach sleeping. The two sides don't feel radically different; if you're set on a really firm or really soft mattress, we doubt the Layla Hybrid will be right for you.
Performance: The Layla Hybrid has a pretty unique selling point thanks to its flippable design, and while there's always the danger with a mattress like this that neither side will really delivered, we found that it provided plenty of comfort and support on both sides. For the record our tester (and her neighbor) preferred the firm side, but only slightly. This mattress is strong on motion isolation on both sides thanks to its foam layers, and it does a good job of temperature regulation thanks to gel foam and it airflow-enhancing sprung core; it doesn't feel cool, but you're unlikely to wake up hot. We were also impressed by its edge support; even on the soft side the edges felt sturdy with no perceived danger of rolling off.
Value for money: With the Layla Hybrid you're paying a bit of a premium for the ability to flip it to and adjust the firmness, but if you value versatility its upper mid-range pricing shouldn't feel too extravagant. And remember that you shouldn't be paying the MSRP for the Layla Hybrid; Layla reliably discounts this mattress and you can usually count on $200 off, complete with free extras (at the moment you'll get sheets, a comforter and pillows). The 120-night trial could be longer for the price, but you get free shipping and returns, plus a 10-year warranty.
Read the full review: Layla Hybrid mattress review
Best mattress under $500
✅ You're on a tight budget: at full price, a queen size Allswell is $449, which is far cheaper than most hybrids. Reviews suggest it's great value for money too.
✅ You need an occasional mattress: you might want to invest a bit more for an every-night mattress, but for a spare room or dorm room, the Allswell is a step above most budget beds.
✅ You have a restless partner: reviews suggest this mattress offers good motion isolation – impressive given it also has a pleasantly bouncy sleep feel.
❌ You're a side sleeper: if you habitually lie on your side, you might find the Allswell doesn't provide quite enough cushioning around your shoulders and hips for maximum comfort. Consider the Nectar original.
❌ You weigh more than average: heavier people might find they sink through the thinner foam layer at the top of this mattress and end up resting on the springs.
❌ You want a bed that'll last a long time: if you want a bed that'll remain comfortable for years to come, you'll probably need to pay a little more, especially if you're sleeping on it every night.
The Allswell mattress delivers a lot for a very affordable price tag – and extras in line with pricier models. This hybrid offers good temperature regulation and motion isolation, as well a pleasantly bouncy sleep surface. Side sleepers might prefer more cushioning, and heavier people should look for something sturdier and thicker for better support, though.
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What you need to know
The Allswell is the best-seller from Walmart's line of affordable mattresses, and the cheapest of the bunch. The basic design can't compete with the more advanced models on our best mattress list, but it is impressively cheap for a hybrid, and based on reviews, delivers a lot for that low price (under $500 for a queen size).
Design and materials: The Allswell's hybrid design starts with a quilted top panel. Beneath that you'll find a layer of memory foam, which is infused with charcoal and copper gel to help regulate temperature. At the base is a layer of individually-wrapped coils, designed to absorb motion and add a bit of bounce. This layer is reinforced around the perimeter, to provide a sturdy edge that enables you to make use of the whole sleep surface.
Firmness and comfort: Allswell rates its original mattress just above the middle of the firmness scale, so around a 6 or 7 (it makes beds that are both softer and firmer). Customer reviews describe a slightly bouncy sleep surface that nevertheless manages to absorb motion from restless bed-mates.
At 10-inches deep, with a relatively thin memory foam layer, it's not the most luxurious bed around; that's about the minimum thickness we'd recommend for an average sized adult. Side sleepers might find they want something softer to provide cushioning around the shoulders and hips. Light and average weight back and front sleepers should feel supported, with weight evenly distributed along the mattress, but bigger and heavier people might find they sink straight through foam and end up sleeping directly on the coils.
Performance: Affordable memory foam can have a nasty habit of trapping body heat, but based on reviews, the Allswell does a good job of avoiding this. A handful of commenters say it can sleep slightly warm, but not enough to suggest a problem. It might be the charcoal and copper gel to thank here, or the fact that it's a relatively thin layer of foam, and that it sits on top of coils, where air can circulate freely.
Value for money: At MSRP, the Allswell sits in the mid- to upper-end of the budget market, and you'll occasionally be able to snag a 15% or 25% discount, or save with Allswell coupons. Performance is strong for that price, and the extras are impressive too. This mattress comes with a 100-night trial, free delivery and returns, and a 10-year warranty, which is more like what you'd expect from a mid-range mattress. While we'd always recommend spending a bit more for your perfect every-night sleep setup, if you're looking for an occasional bed – perhaps for the spare room – the Allswell offers plenty for a very low price.
Read more: Should I buy the Allswell mattress?
Best mattress for joint pain
✅ You suffer from sore joints: the unique gel grid flexes around your body to provide excellent cushioning, bolstered further by the various foam layers that sit beneath it.
✅ You sleep hot: the open structure of the gel grid means there's space for air to circulate, so this mattress won't trap body heat in the way that foam mattresses can.
✅ You're a side sleeper: the body-contouring design is perfect for keeping you comfortably supported in a side sleeping position.
❌ You prefer a traditional mattress feel: based on the popularity of these beds, Purple's gel grid is an effective mattress material, but it gives the sleep surface a unique feel that might not appeal to everyone.
❌ You like to spread out in bed: the edge support on the Purple Plus is only average, which means if you're sitting or sleeping near the edge you might feel like you could roll off.
❌ You're on a tight budget: Purple's mattresses don't come especially cheap. Unlike with other bed brands, you can't always rely on there being a sale.
The Purple Plus mattress really shines when it comes to pressure relief, thanks to that flexible gel grid and cushioning foam layers. It's a bit of an investment, but if you suffer aching joints and need a body-contouring mattress that won't trap body heat, this could well be the best mattress for you.
What you need to know
The Purple Plus mattress launched in August 2021, as a more advanced version of the brand's popular flagship model. It sits around the middle of the current Purple range, and like all the beds from this brand's USP: a gel grid layer that melds to your body shape.
Design and materials: The Purple Plus mattress is made up of three different foams, topped with a 2-inch GelFlex Grid. This elastic polymer is super flexible yet quick to spring back into shape – so it'll meld to your body, but the open structure means it won't trap heat in the same way that memory foam can. An ultra-stretchy fabric cover ensures you get the full effect of the grid. Purple does do some hybrid mattresses that feature a layer of springs, but this isn't one of them. The difference compared to Purple Original is that this mattress adds an extra layer of 'premium comfort' foam, making it slightly more cushioned.
Firmness and comfort: Purple rates the Plus as a medium mattress in terms of sleep feel. Where this mattress brand really excels is when it comes to pressure relief. That's thanks to that gel grid layer – which flexes around your exact body shape – bolstered by the cushioning foams beneath (this model has an extra foam layer than the original model, making it slightly softer). The grid will ping back into shape quickly once pressure is removed, to give a more responsive sleep surface compared to memory foam.
Performance: As well as offering good pressure relief, this mattress is great when in comes to motion isolation – essentially, it'll absorb movements rather than allowing them to reverberate across the whole mattress. That makes this a good choice for couples on different sleep schedules, or which include one restless sleeper.
One of the areas where the Purple Pus mattress falls down a bit is in edge support. Although there are foam rails around the perimeter, designed to reinforce the edges of this bed, based on reviews, edge support is average compared to the competition. This might be an issue if you need a sturdy mattress edge to press against when getting up in the morning, or if you're tight on space and need to be able to comfortably make use of the entire sleep surface.
Value for money: Purple's mattresses don't come especially cheap, and the Plus sits in the lower end of the luxury market. It's the most expensive of the brand's no-spring models, sitting above the Original (around $400-$500 more expensive) and the new-in-2022 NewDay, which is the closest to a budget model you'll find here, with prices starting at $995 for a Full (the smallest option). It’s competitively priced compared to many of its closest rivals though, and especially when you factor in specialist cooling beds.
The extras are perfectly acceptable, but a little stingy for what we'd expect on a mattress in this price bracket. There's a 100-night trial and a 10-year warranty, and you'll get free deliver and returns. Purple isn't one of those brands that's permanently running a sale, either, so you'll need to be savvy about when you buy. You'll find discounts of $100 to $150 off fairly regularly, but occasionally there'll be $400 off this model (which is well worth taking advantage of).
Read more: Should I buy the Purple Plus mattress?
Best budget cooling mattress
✅ You sleep warm: memory foam can absorb body heat, but this mattress counters that effect by adding a clever cooling cover, designed to release that heat.
✅ You're a side sleeper: the Chill has a softer sleep surface that's perfect for side sleepers who need a mattress that will contour around their shoulders and hips.
✅ You don't have loads of cash to splash: most cooling mattresses come with a hefty price tag. The Cocoon Chill is a great way to get some of those chilling powers at a more mid-range price.
❌ You weigh more than average: the Cocoon by Sealy isn't firm enough to support for bigger or heavier bodies, who'll sink through the memory foam and hit the firmer layer beneath.
❌ Overheating is a major problem for you: while the Cocoon by Sealy Chill delivers impressive cooling for the price, there are more expensive options that will perform better in this regard. Consider the Nectar Premier Copper for more cooling clout.
The Cocoon By Sealy Chill is a memory foam mattress that sleeps cooler than most all-foam beds, thanks to a clever heat-dissipating cover. While pricier cooling beds are more effective, this is a compelling option if you're on a tighter budget. It should be comfy for most sleep positions, too. ★★★★
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What you need to know
Cooling mattresses are normally very expensive because they use a larger array of materials and tech to regulate temperature. The Cocoon by Sealy Chill Mattress bucks that trend by offering a decent cooling performance at a much more reasonable price.
Design and materials: The action centers around a stretch-knit cooling cover infused with phase-change material that's designed to absorb then dissipate body heat, as well as wicking away sweat. Beneath the cover you'll find a slab of memory foam, which molds itself around your body to give that distinctive cradling effect. Next is a layer of Responsive Comfort Foam, to prevent you from sinking into the mattress too much and also to reduce motion transfer, followed by the 'Essential Support Layer' at the base, for bounce and stability.
Firmness and comfort: The Cocoon by Sealy Chill is rated as a 6 out of 10 on the firmness scale. Although some reviews suggest that rating is conservative and the mattress feels slightly firmer than that, overall it's still considered a medium or medium-to-firm bed. That means it'll suit side sleepers, who need that extra cushioning around their hips and shoulders. However, it might not be a great choice for those who are heavier and bigger than average.
Performance: The star of the show here is the phase-change cover, which customers report works well to dissipate body heat and keep the sleeper comfortably cool all night. For an all-foam model, the temperature regulation here is impressive. That said, this bed won't sleep as cool as pricier, more advanced cooling options, so if your sleep is regularly disturbed by overheating and you can afford to invest a bit more, we'd recommend opting for a specialist model. This mattress also isolates motion well, which is good news if you share a bed with a restless partner and don't want to be bothered by their movements.
Value for money: Cocoon runs an evergreen discount that knocks 35% off MSRP, which puts this mattress in the mid-range bracket, with a queen coming in at $774 (official MSRP $1,239). That's much cheaper than most specialist cooling beds. You'll also typically get free pillows and sheets included, amping up the value for money further. There's a 100 night trial (about the shortest you'd find from the major bed brands, but still a decent amount of time to try out your purchase) as well as a 10-year warranty.
Read more: Cocoon by Sealy Chill mattress review
Best organic mattress
✅ You like to sleep on your back or stomach: the Avocado Green has a firmer sleep feel that is perfect for those who lie on their back and need that extra support for healthy spinal alignment.
✅ You prefer an organic mattress: the USP here is that the Avocado green is certified organic, and prioritizes the use of natural, non-toxic materials throughout.
✅ You want a top-quality mattress: Avocado mattresses are thoughtfully designed and crafted, with premium materials. That does mean you'll need to invest a bit more, although we think this mattress is good value for the (mid-luxury) price-point.
❌ You lie on your side: the Avocado Green doesn't offer much by way of body contouring, and side sleepers will likely find the firmer sleep surface doesn't have enough give to keep their shoulders and hips comfortably cushioned. The Saatva Zenhaven is a natural latex alternative that is available in a softer sleep feel.
❌ You weigh less than average: similar to the point above, those who are lighter in build might find a softer option more comfortable.
❌ You're on a tight budget: although prices are in line with other organic mattresses, this isn't a budget option, and sales aren't as regular or as generous as you'll find with other bed brands, either. The Birch Natural mattress is a lower-priced alternative.
The Avocado Green Mattress is a high-quality, certified organic mattress with a focus on natural materials. The firmer sleep makes it a great choice for back sleepers or heavier bodies, but side sleepers and lightweight sleepers might find a softer option more comfortable.
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What you need to know
Avocado is a popular 'natural' mattress brand, and the Avocado Green is its flagship model. This hybrid design is made entirely with certified organic materials, including latex, wool and springs. It costs a bit more than your standard bed-in-a-box, but if you want a more natural, high-quality option, this is a strong recommendation.
Design and materials: The Avocado Green mattress is a hybrid model that comprises three layers: a soft cotton and wool cover, a 2-inch layer of Dunlop latex for comfort, and a base layer that includes motion-absorbing coils and reinforced edge support. There's no polyester, polyurethane foams, or toxic fire retardants anywhere, and the cover is needle-tufted by hand, rather than being glued. All the materials used in the mattress are 100% organic certified. If you want to avoid wool, there's also a vegan version of this mattress.
Firmness and comfort: Avocado rates the Green mattress a 7 out of 10 for firmness. We found it offered wonderful support for back sleepers and stomach sleepers, but that the surface didn't contour enough to be comfortable in a side sleeper position. Note that there is the option to add a pillowtop which takes the firmness level down to a 6, and could be a good way to introduce some cushioning around your joints (we didn't test this option). This mattress should provide good support for heavier weight individuals, but lighter weight people again might want to err towards something more cushioned.
Performance: We were impressed by the temperature regulation on offer here. The mattress remained cool to the touch and didn't trap body heat, perhaps thanks to the combination of breathable wool and cotton, and the spring layer allowing air to circulate through the mattress.
We also rated this mattress highly when it comes to motion isolation and edge support. The sleep surface absorbed movements well in our tests (we'd recommend it to co-sleepers who don't want to be bothered by their bedmate's movements) and we also found the edges nice and sturdy (important if you want to be able to use the whole sleep surface, or sit comfortably on the edge of the mattress).
Value for money: With a queen size costing $1,999 at MSRP, the Avocado Green mattress is an upper mid-range or lower luxury mattress. This is based on the fact that, unlike with other mattress brands, Avocado does actually regularly sell its mattresses at full price. There are sometimes Avocado sales and deals that knock 10% off (or occasionally more), but you certainly can't always rely on there being a discount.
Best mattress under $300
✅ You're on a super tight budget: this mattress comes in a range of depth options, but whatever size or depth you go for, it's extremely budget friendly.
✅ You want something for occasional use: if you just need a bed for occasional use in the spare room, or something cheap to send your kid away to college with, this is a perfectly decent option.
✅ You share a bed: with its all-foam design, the Zinus is good at absorbing motion, and making sure your partner's movements don't reach your side of the bed.
❌ You need something that'll last: a cheap mattress will start showing signs of wear and tear quicker than a higher-quality model, and it's going to need replacing much sooner if you're using if regularly. The Allswell is still budget friendly, but more sturdily built.
❌ You sleep hot: all-foam mattresses tend to trap body heat, and cheaper ones can struggle especially badly. Hybrids with a spring layer give somewhere for the air to circulate.
❌ You want to be able to test it before committing: all of our other best mattress picks come with a generous sleep trial that you can use to test out the mattress, but there's no such luxury with the Zinus.
The Zinus Green Tea is a basic, all-foam mattress that comes very well reviewed on Amazon and offers decent comfort for a very low price. Lightweight individuals and side sleepers should get enough support from the 10" version, but front and back sleepers, and heavier people should avoid. You'll sacrifice a sleep trial and long warranty with this budget-friendly option.
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What you need to know
The Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam is the cheapest in our best mattress guide, and a top choice for anyone on a really tight budget. This basic, all-foam mattress is sold via third-party retailers like Walmart and Amazon, where it comes very positively rated – on Amazon US, for example, this bed has a 4.4 out of 5 average over ~150k reviews, as of Jan 2022. You'll probably be able to find a cheaper option somewhere, but this is the best value model we've come across.
Design and materials: This all-foam mattress has three layers, and comes in four different depths: 6, 8, 10 and 12 inches. We're focusing on the 10-inch version here, and we wouldn't recommend anything shallower than that for an average-sized adult. Don't expect to see the same premium materials and features here as with the other mattresses in our guide. Aside from the green tea and charcoal-infused memory foam – which is designed to remove odors and help keep your mattress feeling fresh – there are no bells and whistles here.
Firmness and comfort: The Zinus Green Tea mattress has a classic memory foam feel, hugging the body and offering with good pressure relief, especially in a side-sleeping position. The 10-inch or above should offer decent support and spinal alignment for average weight, petite or junior sleepers, but larger and heavier individuals, as well as those who like to lie on their front or back, should look for something firmer for better support.
Performance: All-foam mattresses can struggle with breathability, and cheaper memory foam can have a nasty habit of trapping the sleeper's body heat and projecting it back to them. As a result, those who sleep hot should proceed with caution – this mattress doesn't sleep especially cool. The memory foam will absorb motion well though, which is good if you share a bed with a restless partner.
Value for money: The main draw here is that low, low price. This mattress is undeniably cheap, and in terms of comfort and support, you're getting a decent product for that price. But be aware you're also sacrificing the extras you'd get with a slightly more expensive model.
There's no mattress trial here, so you're committing to keeping it unless it's faulty, and the warranty period will be decided by the retailer, too (it's unlikely to be as generous as you'll find with a dedicated sleep brand). Slightly pricier options are also much more likely to attract discounts, and to come with freebies like pillows or sheets. These are all things you'll need to weigh up when it comes to figuring out the best value option for you.
Read more: Should I buy the Zinus Green Tea mattress?
How we test mattresses
The TechRadar mattress review process is editorially independent and controlled solely by us. We decide which products are reviewed and use a series of tests to help us generate an overall score out of 10 for each mattress. Here's what you need to know about how we test...
How long we test for – and why
During the review period, we sleep on each mattress for at least three weeks because this is how long it takes most people to get used to sleeping on a new mattress. Other sites test for shorter periods while others test for longer, but we feel three weeks provides ample time to gather testing data and to fact-check claims made by the manufacturer.
One of the most common complaints when sleeping on a new mattress is back pain. Often this is down to choosing the wrong firmness for your body weight and sleeping position, while other times it’s because you have gone from an older, less supportive mattress to something with more support. Your body will feel that change in the beginning, and this is why many leading mattress manufacturers will only accept returns once you have slept on a mattress for 21 to 30 nights and given it a fair trial.
What we test
Every mattress we review is tested and rated in the following areas:
- Firmness, comfort and support
- Design, build quality and materials
- Motion transfer
- Pressure relief in different sleep positions
- Temperature regulation
- Edge support
- Durability
We also rate mattresses in terms of off-gassing (read more about what is mattress off-gassing) and how easy they are (or not) to unbox and set up for sleeping. We source mattresses directly from each manufacturer on the understanding that they have zero influence over our expert opinion of the mattress or the overall score.
We also evaluate user reviews to see what customers think of the mattress, and to identify any issues (or praise) that keep surfacing. User reviews also help us to see if customers are having issues with the materials or build quality months or even years down the line.
Our mattress testers
Our mattress reviewers vary in terms of body weight and sleep needs, and are experienced at testing mattresses, bedding and related sleep products. We have one lead reviewer per mattress, who then forms a review panel of additional sleepers. These panel members represent different types of sleeper (back, stomach, side, combi), and have different body weights and preferences for firmness. Why do we use a panel of testers in addition to a lead reviewer? To create a balanced opinion of the mattress.
Mattress buying advice and FAQ
What is the best mattress in 2023?
In our view, the luxury innerspring Saatva Classic is the best mattress you can buy. It's approved by the Congress of Chiropractic State Associations, and delivers hotel-style comfort and superb support for a few hundred dollars less than its luxury rivals. We really enjoyed sleeping on it.
As well as being great value for a luxury mattress, we love how customizable the Saatva Classic is: you can choose between three firmness options (plush soft, luxury firm and firm) and two heights (11.5 or 14.5 inches). It costs between $995 and $2,445, depending on the size you choose, and there's often a discount at Saatva when you spend over $1,000.
Alternatively, if you prefer the full 'hug' of memory foam mattress - and want to sink into your mattress while you sleep, rather than sleep on top of it - we'd recommend the Nectar Memory Foam mattress. Starting from $599 ($1049 for a queen) it's a competitively priced mid-range mattress that performs well and is almost always discounted substantially.
What's the deal with mattress deals on Black Friday?
There's a ton more info in our dedicated Black Friday mattress deals and Cyber Monday mattress deals pages, but here's the short version. Unless you've been living under a rock, you'll know that Black Friday (the last Friday of November, 24 November 2023) is a major day for sales. That goes for mattresses too. Pretty much all the brands and retailers will have a significant sale on.
It used to be the time to buy, with brands offering their lowest price of the year for a short period of time. Nowadays, the deals aren't quite as unique, with some brands matching Black Friday pricing at other times of the year – although crucially, it's unusual to see prices that are lower than a brand's Black Friday deal, so it's still a great time to shop. We're expecting major price drops on all the models in our best mattress guide, with the possible exception of the Zinus Green Tea, just because it's so cheap already and sold via Amazon.
The sales periods have gotten longer too. It's fairly common for mattress brands to drop their Black Friday pricing around mid-October. The branding of the sale will change ('Early Access', 'Black Friday deal', 'Cyber Week Deal') but the offer itself will remain consistent often until after Cyber Monday.
You'll also often see extra free gifts like pillows or sheets bundled in, to tempt you in further. Consider how much you need these when making your decision – the important thing is to get the right mattress for you.
When is the best time to buy a new mattress?
There are mattress sales running year-round, so you’re never far from a good discount on a top-rated mattress. That said, certain times of the year are definitely the best time to buy a new mattress. The obvious two are in November and December, over Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
Outside of those major shopping events, the best times to buy a new mattress include the Presidents' Day mattress sales in February, as well as the Memorial Day mattress sales in late May. Retailers often come out with the most competitive savings as they attempt to shift old season stock to make way for newer models. We've even seen accessories, such as mattress protectors, comforters and the best pillows for sleeping get discounted.
The July 4th mattress sales, followed by the Labor Day mattress sales in September, also bring a variety of offers, but mattress prices can be higher than during Black Friday. So while the actual discounts may be the same, the base price of the mattress might be higher, so your savings are smaller.
Generally, summer is known as one of the most expensive times to buy a new mattress, so we’d recommend keeping your eye out for good deals during the other sales periods mentioned above instead. And if you don't have the budget right now for a new mattress but need more comfort from your bed, consider using one of the best mattress toppers instead.
What is the best mattress for me?
To choose the best mattress for you, think about the position you fall asleep in. Most mattresses are designed to support back, stomach and side sleepers, though we have found that some mattress types are best suited to specific sleep positions.
For example, contouring memory foam mattresses with sink-in cushioning are an excellent choice for side sleepers because they relieve pressure on the hips, knees and shoulders during side sleeping. All-foam models also provide comfort for lighter bodies.
Hybrid mattresses are usually firmer and therefore suit heavier bodies, and back and stomach sleepers who need to sleep on top of the mattress for better spinal alignment. Because they sleep cooler, they’re the best choice for hot sleepers too.
In terms of mattress firmness, a medium-firm feel works well for most people, so you’ll see this offered by a lot of mattress manufacturers. Though if you enjoy softer beds, you may find that medium-firm is too firm, so explore soft or plush-firm options instead. So to recap:
Choose a mattress that suits your sleeping position and make sure it offers enough comfort for your body type. Look for cooling materials if you sleep hot, and always opt for a mattress that comes with a risk-free trial period.
What are the different types of mattress?
Largely speaking, there are four different types of mattress: memory foam, hybrid, innerspring and latex, though there are many variations within those main types too. Here’s a handy guide to the different types and how they might best suit your body, sleep needs and budget:
Hybrid mattresses
These use a combination of memory foam and either coils or springs, and generally provide a firmer feel than an all-foam mattress. Hybrids pack in more material technologies, and are more breathable because air flows freely through and around the coils or springs.
Hybrids are a good choice for heavier bodies that need firmer support to keep their spine aligned during sleep. They also suit people with back pain as hybrids can often deliver zoned support, with different levels of firmness across different parts of the mattress.
Again, the average warranty is 10 years though brands such as DreamCloud and WinkBeds offer lifetime warranties on their hybrids.
Memory foam mattresses
This type of mattress is made from memory foam and other types of foam, and while they have in the past been known to retain heat, many of them are now made with gel-infused memory foam to make them cooler.
The main draw is that they create a body-hugging feel for a more weightless type of sleep. They also suit couples and restless sleepers who share a bed as memory foam offers more motion isolation than other materials.
Memory foam mattresses are best-suited to people who need deep pressure relief across their back, shoulders, hips and other impact points. They are cheaper than hybrids (see below for a description of those), and typically last around six to eight years depending on the build quality. Our feature on how long a mattress lasts goes into more detail on this.
The average warranty is 10 years, though some memory foam mattress brands, such as Nectar Sleep and WinkBeds, offer lifetime warranties.
Innerspring mattresses
This is a more traditional type of mattress, and one you’ll find in mattress stores and from some online manufacturers. Innerspring mattresses use a coil-based support system that suits most sleeping positions, with individually housed coils sat inside fabric pockets so that they can move independently of each other. This creates a bouncier feel than other mattresses types, and a more responsive feel.
The drawback with innerspring mattresses is that they don’t last as long as other mattresses, so you will need to replace them frequently compared to more durable memory foam and hybrids. Though if you want one of the most long-lasting types of mattress, look at the latex models (see below).
Warranties vary wildly for innerspring mattresses, and range from five years to eight years on average.
Latex mattresses
These are an excellent choice for anyone who wants a durable mattress that offers cooling comfort and a bouncy feel (innersprings are bouncier). There are different types of latex mattress, including Dunlop and natural Talalay latex.
Like memory foam, latex is a great material for contouring to the body and providing a slightly huggy feel, though it’s more breathable. If you want an organic mattress for non-toxic sleep, latex mattresses are worth exploring. However they are more expensive, which is reflected in the longer warranties - 20 years is the average.
