We receive free products to review and participate in affiliate programs, where we are compensated for items purchased through links from our site. See our disclosure page for more information.
Our team of Certified Sleep Science Coaches have reviewed 600+ mattresses and accessories for over seven years using proprietary analysis and hands-on testing. We assess each bed for support, cooling, firmness, pressure relief and more. Learn more.
In This Review
I’ll review the most comfortable mattresses. I’ll examine each mattress’s durability, firmness, feel, pricing and more.
As much as we like to go into great detail about different beds, most people just want to know one thing: Is it comfortable? Well, I’ve done the work for you by choosing nine of the most comfortable mattresses on the market.
Out of the 300 mattresses I have personally reviewed, I considered over 50 mattresses for this list. Out of those 50, these ten were the true standouts, and they should work for a variety of sleepers. If you’re ready to up the comfort of your mattress, this is the article for you.
Our Verdict: What’s the Most Comfortable Mattress?
Our team has tested a wide range of mattresses, but we named the Nectar Premier mattress as one of the most comfortable mattresses. This bed features impressive luxury features, pressure-relieving foam and temperature regulating materials that provide amazing body contouring while keeping you supported all night long.
Our team of Certified Sleep Science Coaches have reviewed more than 150 mattresses, using proprietary analysis and hands-on testing to establish easy-to-understand scores. In addition to an overall score, we measure subscores for support, edge support, cooling, motion transfer, durability, trial period and warranty.
How We Chose the Most Comfortable Mattresses
We recognize that comfort is subjective and will vary from person to person, so a lot of our decision-making came down to what feels good to us. At the same time, we wanted to make sure that we picked high-quality beds, so we only chose mattresses that have an overall score of at least 3.5 out of 5. Of those, eight mattresses scored at least a 4 out of 5. Here’s a bit more on the mattress build and performance factors that we focused on for this roundup:
Comfort Layer
When curating a lineup of extra comfy mattresses, the first consideration among testers was the bed’s comfort layer or layers. We looked for mattresses with thick comfort layers made from plush materials like memory foam or latex. Many of these beds are also considered “pillow-top,” i.e. a thick, quilted, fluffy pillow top has been sewn in. These materials lend that soft, cushioned feel that contours to your body, relieving pressure points and giving that luxurious “sink-in” sensation. Most mattresses we chose also have multiple layers of foam, rather than just a single layer.
Cooling
Cooling and comfort go hand-in-hand. Anyone is who is prone to overheating during the night can attest to that. Our testers selected mattresses that incorporated cooling tech into multiple layers. Features you’ll spot most often in this round up are layers of gel-infused memory foam or copper-infused foams, and covers made from breathable or moisture-wicking materials, like cotton and Tencel. We were also more partial to hybrid mattresses in this roundup, as their innerspring layer promotes better airflow than that of all-foam beds.
Edge Support
If you value your creature comforts in a mattress, you probably also value a bed with solid edge support, or a feeling of security on the edges. We sought beds where you can get cozy on every inch of the sleep surface, including the periphery. And in the more rare instances where a bed on this roundup had less robust edge support, we were sure to call that out.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.3
Nectar
Nectar Premier
Soft Feel
Pressure Relief
Breathable
Foam mattress
365-night sleep trial
Free shipping
Black Friday Sale
Up to 50% off mattresses + spend $1,000 and save $100 See Details
The Nectar Premier is an all-foam mattress with a high-density base layer and several layers of plush foam on top.
Firmness
The Nectar Premier is softer than average. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated it a 6/10. For reference, 6.5/10 is considered the industry standard of medium-firm.
Price
$1,049-$2,398 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Hot Sleepers
The Phase Change Material cover, paired with the cooling gel foam, helps dissipate body heat.
Side Sleepers
It offers lots of pressure relief for side sleepers who weigh less than 275 lb.
Pros of the Nectar Premier
It has a balanced foam feel. You’ll feel like you’re resting “on top” of the bed, rather than “inside” it.
The plush foam layers offer lots of pressure relief for side sleepers.
The cooling materials help dissipate body heat.
Cons of the Nectar Premier
It’s not supportive enough for most heavyweight back sleepers.
It lacks a bouncy and responsive feel.
This mattress might be too pricey for some people.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period.
The Nectar Premier mattress is a luxurious bed that offers lots of pressure relief. It’s softer than average, which makes it a nice option for many side sleepers. This mattress has cooling gel foam and a cover made with Phase Change Material, so it works well for hot sleepers. However, it may not be supportive enough for many back and stomach sleepers. And because it’s a high-end model, it could be out of some people’s budgets. To learn more, watch our video review.
Our Expert’s Take
A way to take comfort to the next level is cooling. The last thing you need is to wake up feeling overheated, and hot sleepers shouldn’t have to worry about that on the Nectar Premier. For heat dissipation and temperature regulation, the Premier includes a breathable cover, gel-infused memory foam, and Phase Change Material. With these special cooling features, you can get all of the benefits of memory foam without having it trap heat. For extra cooling, opt for the hybrid version of the Nectar Premier, the Nectar Premier Hybrid. The coils in the support layer add another level of breathability.
What the testers say: “We felt fantastic while back sleeping on the Nectar Premier. We enjoyed plenty of support as well as some pleasant pressure relief. This helped to keep us in good neutral spinal alignment. We also felt great while side sleeping on this mattress.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Nectar Premier
The Nectar Premier includes seven inches of high-density foam at its base. This level of support comfortably accommodates lightweight and average weight back sleepers and side sleepers.
Memory foam will hug your body, and make you feel like you are sleeping “inside” the mattress. The Nectar Premier delivers this feel without letting you overheat.
What To Keep in Mind About the Nectar Premier
Heavier sleepers and stomach sleepers are likely going to want a firmer, more supportive mattress.
This is an exceptional value mattress, as you can find a queen size for under $1,000.
Other User Reviews
On the Nectar website, out of more than 60,000 reviews, customers gave the Nectar Premier an average score of 4.7/5. Most customers praised its affordability and comfortable feel.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.6
Helix
Helix Midnight Luxe
Medium-Firm Feel
Motion Isolation
Breathability
Hybrid mattress
100-night sleep trial
Free shipping
Black Friday Sale
Use code BF25 and save 25% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase See Details
The Helix Midnight Luxe is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated this mattress 6.5/10. This is the industry standard for medium-firm.
Price
$1,373-$2,073 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, short queen, king, California king, RV king
Side Sleepers
Great pressure relief for side sleepers under 230 lbs.
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Hot Sleepers
This bed’s cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Pros
This bed has a hotel-like feel. The pillow top provides a plush comfort layer to sink into.
The Helix Midnight Luxe sleeps cool. Thanks to its cooling cover and copper-infused memory foam, even hot sleepers shouldn’t worry about overheating on this bed.
Even though it’s a hybrid mattress, this bed has great motion isolation. That means if you co-sleep, you’re less likely to feel your partner’s movements.
Cons
Stomach sleepers probably won’t find this bed supportive enough to keep their spine in proper alignment.
This is a luxury mattress model, so it wouldn’t be considered a budget-buy.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
15-year warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period.
The Helix Midnight Luxe is a premium medium-firm mattress that offers a hotel-like feel for a relatively affordable price. Its zoned support and supportive coil layers make it a great option for back sleepers. It likely isn’t firm enough for most stomach sleepers, though. If you’re looking for a more supportive bed, check out the Titan Plus. Learn more in our video review.
Our Expert’s Take
If you want the best of both worlds, a hybrid mattress could be right for you. The Helix Midnight Luxe is the most comfortable hybrid mattress I have tried and offers the support of coils and the comfort of multiple layers of foam plus a pillow top. Zoned coils also offer targeted support under the lumbar area. During my time testing the mattress, it was most comfortable while I was back and side sleeping. However, even with the zoning, it felt too soft while I was stomach sleeping. If you sleep in this position, consider the Saatva mattress, which I will discuss below.
What the testers say: “The Helix Midnight Luxe feels incredibly comfortable for back sleeping. Even as a larger person, I felt the zoned coils in the support layer give some amazing lumbar support. I felt a little bit of pressure on my side, but not enough that it was going to be uncomfortable for a full night of sleep. I believe side sleepers will also feel nice pressure relief on this mattress, while stomach sleepers while want to find something firmer.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Helix Midnight Luxe
The medium firmness and zoned construction offer the perfect balance of comfort and support for back sleeping. You will feel supported inboth your lumbar and sacrum areas while your hips sink in just the right amount.
It offers a plush pillow top feel. Like the other Helix Luxe mattresses, the Midnight Luxe’s pillow top really rises off the mattress to give you a plush, luxury feel.
It’s a good fit for hot sleepers. The Midnight Luxe’s cooling cover and copper-infused foam both help draw heat away from your body while you sleep.
What to Keep in Mind About the Helix Midnight Luxe
It’s not comfortable for heavier side sleepers. The Midnight Luxe is a medium-firm mattress and won’t offer enough pressure relief for most side sleepers who weigh over 230 lbs. If you fall into this category, consider the Titan Plus mattress, which is made specifically with heavier people in mind.
Stomach sleepers won’t get enough support. The majority of stomach sleepers will need a mattress that supports their hips.
The Midnight Luxe is one of the brand’s pricier mattresses and may be outside of some people’s price ranges. If you want something more affordable, take a look at the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid featured further down this list.
Other User Reviews
On Helix’s site, the Helix Midnight Luxe got an average score of 4.5/5 with customers. Customers who gave it a 5/5 praised the mattress for relieving their aches and pains while providing support and comfort in multiple sleeping positions. Some who scored it lower said it didn’t feature great edge support.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
Multiple firmness options: Soft, Medium, and Firm. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the Medium model a 7/10, which is slightly firmer than the industry standard for medium-firm.
Price
$1,199-$1,999 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Hot Sleepers
This bed’s cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Pros of the WinkBeds GravityLux
Since this bed comes in three different firmness options, sleepers can choose the firmness level that’s closest to their unique needs.
The Tencel cover and gel-infused foam help this bed sleep cool, even for typically hot sleepers.
This mattress offers a balanced foam feel with plenty of spinal support.
Cons of the WinkBeds GravityLux
This likely isn’t the best option for sleepers who weigh more than 230 lbs.
There are more affordable memory foam mattresses out there.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period.
The GravityLux is WinkBeds’s only all-foam mattress model. Available in three firmness levels, this bed offers options that should work for many people and sleeps relatively cool for a memory foam mattress. It probably isn’t supportive enough for sleepers who weigh over 230 lbs, though, so if you’re looking for a firmer bed, check out the WinkBed Plus. Learn more in our video review.
Our Expert’s Take
When looking for the most comfortable mattress for couples, sleepers are going to want to consider motion isolation. A mattress with good motion isolation means that partners are unlikely to feel each other’s movements at night. One such bed is the WinkBeds GravityLux. We used a glass of water to test the motion transfer on the GravityLux. Pushing into the other side of the mattress, there was little disturbance in the water. This means there’s very little motion transfer, so you and your significant other should sleep soundly. However, while it is an all-foam mattress, it doesn’t offer that slow-moving feel you may expect. If you like this feel, take a look at the Bear Original on this list.
What the testers say: “The WinkBeds GravityLux is an all-foam bed, so it handles motion transfer very well. This allows couples to get in and out of bed while they sleep without noticing the movement. I also felt really comfortable with the edge support, so couples will be able to spread out and use the whole bed. However, heavier couples may still need the support of a mattress like the Titan Plus.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the WinkBeds GravityLux
You get multiple firmness options such as Soft, Medium, and Firm. This makes it a great fit for pretty much any sleeping position.
While it is an all-foam mattress, it still sleeps cool. A Tencel cover and proprietary AirCell foam both ensure you don’t overheat during the night.
It has a balanced foam feel that offers some nice comfort. It is also responsive, so you won’t feel stuck in the mattress.
What to Keep in Mind About the WinkBeds GravityLux
It lacks a slow-moving feel. You may expect this feel with an all-foam mattress, but you don’t really get that contouring feel with the WinkBeds GravityLux.
It is a pricier all-foam mattress. While it has a lot to offer, it may be too much for your budget.
Heavier people will need more support. This thinner mattress won’t give enough support for larger bodies. I’m personally a larger person and needed something a bit more substantial.
Other User Reviews
Customers on the WinkBeds website gave the GravityLux an average score of 4.8 out of 5. Many customers praised the brand’s customer service, and others said the bed helped their back pain. Others said the bed was firmer than they anticipated.
Saatva Classic – Most Comfortable Mattress for Back Pain
Best Mattress for Back Pain
Mattress Clarity Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
The Saatva is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the Luxury Firm model a 7/10, which is a bit firmer than average.
Price
$1,295-$2,790 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king, split California king
Stomach Sleepers
Supportive enough for stomach sleepers under 230 lbs.
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 300 lbs.
Hot Sleepers
This bed’s cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Pros
The Saatva mattress is a great option for combination sleepers. It is available in multiple firmness options, but the Luxury Firm model works well for multiple sleeping positions.
The Luxury Firm model of the Saatva will work well for most back sleepers. Its balance of comfort and support and zoned construction ensure you’ll sleep in good neutral alignment.
Shoppers looking for a long-lasting mattress will love the Saatva. It feature high-density foam and durable coils that should ensure it lasts for over 10 years.
Cons
If you like the feel of a memory foam mattress, you’re not going to love the feel of the Saatva.
Lightweight side sleepers might not get the best pressure relief, even on the softest Saatva model.
Shipping
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period. A removal fee of $99 will be deducted from your refund.
The Saatva is a luxurious hybrid innerspring mattress that should be a great long-term investment. It is available in multiple firmness options, so it should work for the majority of sleeping positions, and its Luxury Firm model is one of the best mattresses for back sleepers. However, lightweight side sleepers and fans of memory foam should look elsewhere. Learn more in our video review.
Our Expert’s Take
Not only can back pain make it difficult to sleep, but your pain can also be exacerbated if you’re using the wrong mattress. The Saatva has multiple firmness options, so you can select the one that best accommodates your body type and preferred sleeping position. Plus, no matter which firmness you choose, the Saatva will offer plenty of support to keep the right areas of your body elevated so that your spine remains healthily aligned.
What the testers say: “The wrong mattress can be a pain in the back, but not the Saatva. Its zoned construction helps support your spine and will prevent and ease back pain.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Saatva
We gave the Saatva mattress an impressive 4.5 out of 5 on our edge support test. As we rested along the perimeter of the mattress we noticed little to no sagging underneath our weight. This is great news for those of you who like to utilize every square inch of the mattress surface or even simply use the edges of the mattress to support yourself as you get in and out of bed.
Our mattress testers consider the Saatva one of the best mattresses for sex. Its bouncy feel makes it very easy to move around and change positions on.
What to Keep in Mind About the Saatva
While good for sex, some couples may be disappointed in the Saatva’s ability to isolate motion. When it comes time to sleep, you may notice that you easily feel your partner’s tossing and turning as they get settled. This can make it difficult to rest deeply, particularly if you’re a light sleeper. If this is a concern of yours, consider the Helix Midnight Luxe instead.
Other User Reviews
The Saatva mattress has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5, based on 3,422 reviews on the company website. When filtered, we can see that 1,015 of the 5-star reviews favorably mention the Saatva’s effect on back pain. Only nine 1-star reviews contradict the notion that the Saatva is a good mattress for back pain.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.6
Helix
Helix Sunset Luxe
Soft Feel
Good Edge Support
Breathable
Hybrid mattress
100-nigh sleep trial
Free shipping
Black Friday Sale
Use code BF25 and save 25% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase See Details
The Helix Sunset Luxe is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated this mattress 5.5/10. This is softer than average.
Price
$1,373-$2,073 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, short queen, queen, king, California king, RV king
Side Sleepers
Great pressure relief for side sleepers under 230 lbs.
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Pros of the Helix Sunset Luxe
The Helix Sunset Luxe is a softer mattress, so it should work well for side sleepers who need plenty of cushioning around their hips and shoulders.
Thanks to its solid edge support, this bed can offer a sturdy surface for getting in and out of bed. This can also be helpful for couples who co-sleep and want to maximize the usable space on the bed.
It’s a cooling mattress, featuring copper-infused foam and breathable coils. Even hot sleepers could expect a cool night’s sleep, especially if they add the optional cooling cover.
Cons of the Helix Sunset Luxe
This bed is likely far too soft for most back and stomach sleepers who weigh more than 230 lbs.
The Helix Sunset Luxe is a luxury bed that comes with a luxury price tag.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
15-year warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period.
The Helix Sunset Luxe is a high-end mattress model that offers plenty of premium features. From its plush pillow top to cooling materials, this bed is a good option for hot sleepers who want a soft mattress. It’s likely not firm enough for most stomach sleepers, though. Instead, check out the Helix Dawn.
Our Expert’s Take
Above, I talked about the Helix Midnight Luxe, my favorite comfortable hybrid mattress. If you want something with a more luxurious feel, consider the Helix Sunset Luxe. Like the Midnight Luxe, it features a pillow top, high-quality foams, and supportive coils. However, the Sunset Luxe offers even more of a soft feel right on top. The Helix Midnight Luxe scored a 6.5/10 on our firmness scale, and the Helix Sunset Luxe scored a whole point softer. This really made me feel like I was sleeping on a big cloud. Keep in mind that this is one of the softest mattresses that Helix offers. If you don’t sleep on your side, the Helix Midnight Luxe will still be a better bet.
What the testers say: “The Helix Sunset Luxe really shines for side sleeping. I also felt the zoning in the coils; the firmer center area of the coils pressed into the area just below my rib cage. This helped keep my spine aligned while I was sleeping. That being said, it wasn’t the best match for back or stomach sleeping.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Helix Sunset Luxe
It is a fantastic option for side sleepers. When you are side sleeping, your body weight is concentrated on your shoulders and hips. The Helix Sunset Luxe is a very soft mattress and will relieve pressure in those areas.
It boasts some great luxury materials. You can opt for either a Tencel or GlacioTex™ cooling cover, the coils are zoned and high-grade, and the pillow top is push and luxurious.
What To Keep in Mind About the Helix Sunset Luxe
The Helix Sunset Luxe is too soft for stomach sleepers. If you just sleep on your stomach, you will need something firmer to support your hips and center mass. The Saatva mattress mentioned above will be a better fit.
The Helix Sunset Luxe is a luxury mattress, and it comes with a luxury price. If you are on a tighter budget, consider one of the base Helix mattresses or the affordable Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid I discussed higher up the page.
Other User Reviews
Out of almost 1,000 reviews on the Helix website, customers scored the Helix Sunset Luxe an average of 4.5/5. Some customers liked the plush pressure relief of the Sunset Luxe, while others didn’t think it was quite soft enough.
Bear Original – Most Comfortable Memory Foam Mattress
Best Memory Foam Mattress
Mattress Clarity Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
3.8
Bear
Bear Original
Medium-Firm Feel
Affordable
Lifetime Warranty
Foam mattress
120-night sleep trial
Free shipping
Black Friday Sale
Use code BLACK35 for 35% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase See Details
The Bear Original is a memory foam mattress. It features softer foam layers for cushioning and firmer ones for support.
Firmness
On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated this mattress 6.5/10. This is the industry standard for medium-firm.
Price
$786-$1,690 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Side Sleepers
Great pressure relief for side sleepers under 230 lbs.
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Hot Sleepers
This bed’s cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Pros of the Bear Original Mattress
The Bear’s gel-infused memory foam can help hot sleepers stay cool throughout the night.
It’s an affordable option. A queen-size Bear mattress is less than $1,000, even before discounts.
Bear offers a lifetime warranty on this mattress. That means if you find any covered defects or indentations during the life of your mattress, they will replace it free of charge.
Cons of the Bear Original Mattress
This bed probably isn’t a good fit for side sleepers who weigh over 230 lbs.
Stomach sleepers likely won’t find this bed firm enough to keep their spine in proper alignment.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period.
The Bear Original is a memory foam mattress with broad appeal. It provides good support and pressure relief for side and back sleepers who weigh less than 230 lbs and comes with plenty of cooling features. It isn’t firm enough for most sleepers who weigh more than 230 lbs, though. If you need a more supportive bed, check out the Plank Firm. Learn more in our video review.
Our Expert’s Take
The Bear Original mattress’s ears are probably burning because I’ve mentioned it so many times above. That’s because, when most people think of comfort, memory foam mattresses come to mind. And, the Bear Original is a very comfortable memory foam mattress. The Bear features three layers including gel-infused memory foam, transition foam and base foam. The top layer of memory foam offers excellent pressure relief and some of that slow-moving feel. At the same time, the mattress does not have the drawbacks of memory foam. It is responsive enough so that you can move around, and has plenty of cooling features to ensure you don’t overheat. Still, it is not as responsive as some other mattresses on this list. If you want to move around extremely easily, check out the Saatva mattress above.
What the testers say: “I found ample lumbar support while resting on my back, and I felt proper spinal alignment overall. As an average weight side sleeper, the Bear really did wonders for me as well and I felt some great pressure relief on my shoulders and hips. I will note that heavy side sleepers might not have the same experience.” – Joe Auer, Reviewer
What We Love About the Bear Original
It offers a great balance of comfort and support for back sleeping. The top layer of memory foam will conform to the curves of your body, and you will sink in without feeling a lack of support.
While it is a memory foam mattress, you shouldn’t overheat on the Bear Original. It boasts a breathable cover and gel-infused memory foam. This will keep the mattress from trapping too much body heat.
Lightweight and medium-weight side sleepers should feel nice pressure relief on this mattress. It had a firmness of 6.5/10, which should be soft enough for side sleepers who weigh less than 230 lb.
What to Keep in Mind About the Bear Original
Heavyweight side sleepers might bottom out on this mattress. Their extra weight could cause them to sink too far into the mattress, and they will feel the firmness of the support layers on their shoulders and hips.
Stomach sleepers will need to find a firmer mattress overall. If you sleep on your stomach, you could feel your hips sink down into the mattress, and this could cause lower back pain.
Fans of bouncy mattresses will want to look elsewhere. It won’t be as easy to move around on this memory foam mattress when compared to something with coils.
Other User Reviews
If you look at the Bear website, you’ll see customers gave the Bear Original a score of around 4.4/5. Many reviewers thought it was a great fit for both back and side sleeping. Some of the bed’s detractors thought it needed more edge support, and others thought it softened up too much.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.0
Brooklyn Bedding
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
Multiple Firmnesses
Affordable
Responsive
Hybrid mattress
120-night trial period
Free shipping
Black Friday Sale
Use code BFRIDAY30 for 30% off sitewide See Details
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Soft, Medium, and Firm. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the Medium model a 6.5/10, which is the industry standard for medium-firm.
Price
$665-$1,599 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, short full, queen, short queen, king, short king, Olympic queen, California king, split California king, RV king
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Couples
Good balance of motion isolation and responsiveness.
Pros of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature is a budget-friendly mattress. It’s a good fit for shoppers looking for an affordable, versatile bed.
Combination sleepers will find it easy to change positions on this bed. Thanks to its bouncy coil construction, the Signature offers a very responsive surface.
Back and side sleepers under 230 lbs can expect great pressure relief and support on this bed.
Cons of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature
This bed doesn’t provide much motion isolation.
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature isn’t a luxury mattress.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period. A removal fee of $99 will be deducted from your refund.
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature is an affordable, no-frills bed with a medium-firm feel that should work for a wide variety of sleepers. While it’s made with durable materials and should last up to 10 years, it isn’t the most luxurious option. If you’re looking for a premium bed, check out the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe. Learn more in our video review.
Our Expert’s Take
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress has three firmness options: Soft, Medium and Firm. Most side sleepers will prefer the Soft model because it provides plenty of pressure point relief along their shoulders and hips. When I rested on my side, I sank into the top layers and felt no pressure buildup around my joints. However, if you are on the heavier side, you may bottom out on the Brooklyn Bedding and feel more pressure in those areas. Larger people should read about the Titan Plus mattress below and its softer counterpart, the Titan Plus Luxe.
What the testers say: “I really enjoyed this mattress for back sleeping, but the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid works well for side sleepers, too. I think many side sleepers will be able to get the pressure relief they need from the top comfort layers. Larger people, however, should find something made for them.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is an affordable, high-quality mattress. Unlike many of its competitors, the brand owns its own factory and is able to price its mattresses very low.
The mattress is responsive and makes it very easy to move around at night. All-foam mattresses, especially those that feature memory foam, might make you feel stuck during the night. This shouldn’t happen on this bouncier hybrid mattress.
What To Keep in Mind About the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
If you like that memory foam feel, you’re not going to get it with the Signature Hybrid. Memory foam will hug your body, and make you feel like you are sleeping “inside” the mattress. With the Signature Hybrid, you will feel like you are sleeping on top.
It lacks the bells and whistles you’ll find with other online mattresses. If you’re on the hunt for something more luxurious, the Saatva or Helix Midnight Luxe mattresses on this list will fit the bill.
Other User Reviews
On the Brooklyn Bedding website, out of 10,000 reviews, customers gave the Signature Hybrid an average score of 4.7/5. Most customers praised its affordability, but some customers thought the bed was either too soft or too firm.
Nolah Signature – Most Comfortable Mattress for Back Sleepers
Best Mattress for Back Sleepers
Mattress Clarity Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.1
Nolah
Nolah Signature
Medium-Firm Feel
Pressure Relief
Breathable
Foam mattress
120-night sleep trial
Free shipping
Black Friday Sale
35% off sitewide + 2 free pillows + $150 off BedJet with mattress purchase See Details
The Nolah Signature 12″ is an all-foam mattress. This means that the bed is entirely made out of foam.
Firmness
On a scale from 1 to 10, with one being the softest, we rated the Nolah Signature 12″ mattress a 6.5/10, which is the industry standard for a medium firm mattress.
Price
$1,499 – $3,198 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Side Sleepers
Provides good pressure relief for sleepers 230 lbs or less.
Back Sleepers
Medium-firm feel gives good comfort and support for sleepers 230 lbs or less
Hot Sleepers
Foam is designed to not trap heat
Pros of the Nolah Signature
This is Nolah’s specific side sleeper model. That means most side sleepers should get good pressure relief.
It’s a medium-firm bed that supports many back sleepers while still feeling very comfortable.
Nolah uses its AirFoam, which is designed to be more breathable than traditional foam. It shouldn’t trap heat.
Cons of the Nolah Signature
This is a medium-firm bed, so it won’t be supportive enough for stomach sleepers. Instead, check out our list of the best mattresses for stomach sleepers.
While this is an all-foam bed, it won’t have that classic slow-moving feeling some may look for in foam beds.
Shipping
Trial Period
Warranty
Returns
Our Expert’s Take
While side sleepers need a softer mattress and stomach sleepers need a firmer one, back sleepers are somewhere in the middle. These sleepers tend to need a balanced feel, and the Nolah fits the bill with its proprietary AirFoam that supports the lumbar and sacral regions. It also offers plenty of support to keep the hips lifted. What’s more, if you’re looking for something bouncier than the Nolah Signature, the brand offers an all-foam hybrid version of the mattress that includes a layer that’s meant to mimic the feel of a coil layer. With either version, you’ll still get the balance of comfort and support.
The Nolah Signature scored a 6.5/10 on our firmness scale, so it’s a true medium-firm mattress. When I slept on my back on this mattress, I felt like I was in good neutral alignment. However, a heavier back sleeper will probably need even more support. Again, see my most comfortable mattress for heavy people, the Titan Plus, above.
What the testers say: “Lightweight sleepers in all positions could call this one of the best mattresses for lightweight sleepers. Because they won’t compress the layers that much, lightweight back and side sleepers should still feel that great support and comfort. Average weight back sleepers will really enjoy the balanced foam feel of this mattress, but heavier people will need more support.”– Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Nolah Signature
It offers great pressure relief for side sleepers. The bed’s AirFoam is a softer material that really hugs the shoulders and hips.
The Nolah Signature has the benefits of memory foam without the drawbacks. Namely, it is soft and comfortable, but won’t trap heat or make you feel stuck the way memory foam can often do.
It is a good option if you experience back pain. Its medium firmness promotes healthy spinal alignment, and this can help prevent and ease back pain.
What to Keep in Mind About the Nolah Signature
Stomach sleepers will need a more supportive mattress. It is a medium-firm mattress, and stomach sleepers should focus on finding a firmer mattress.
While it is a foam mattress, it doesn’t feature a memory foam feel. If you like to slowly sink into your mattress, the Bear Original is next on this list.
Other User Reviews
On the Nolah website, the Nolah Signature scored an average of 4.8/5. Those who liked thought it was not too firm and not soft. At the same time, some customers had issues getting enough comfort when they were on their side.
Titan Plus – Most Comfortable Mattress for Heavy People
Best Mattress for Heavy People
Mattress Clarity Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.2
Brooklyn Bedding
Titan Plus
Firm Feel
Supportive
Breathable
Hybrid mattress
120-night sleep trial
Free shipping
Black Friday Sale
Use code BFRIDAY30 for 30% off sitewide See Details
The Titan Plus is a hybrid mattress. This means it has coils at the bottom and foam on top.
Firmness
The Titan Plus mattress is very firm. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated it a 9/10.
Price
$699-$1,499 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split California king
Heavyweight sleepers
This mattress has a thick comfort layer and sturdy coils that can handle heavier weights.
Stomach Sleepers
It offers lots of hip support, which can help stomach sleepers maintain the correct spinal alignment.
Couples
This mattress has good edge support and motion isolation.
Pros of the Titan Plus
It works well for people who weigh 230 – 500 lb, thanks to its supportive feel.
This mattress has great edge support.
The Titan Plus mattress is breathable and cool, so it works well for hot sleepers.
Cons of the Titan Plus
Lightweight people likely won’t get enough pressure relief on this mattress.
It’s too firm for many side sleepers, who will likely need more cushioning along their shoulders and hips.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period. A removal fee of $99 will be deducted from your refund.
The Titan Plus mattress works well for many heavyweight back and stomach sleepers. It’s quite firm, coming in at 9/10 on our firmness scale. This means that many side sleepers won’t get the pressure relief they need along their shoulders and hips. Watch our Titan Plus mattress review video to learn more.
Our Expert’s Take
Above, I discussed many comfortable mattresses that are a great fit for average-weight and lightweight sleepers, but what if you are on the larger side and need more support? Well, Brooklyn Bedding designed the Titan Plus specifically with you in mind. Throughout the bed, you’ll find a durable hybrid construction, from a comfort layer of proprietary TitanFlex foam (a more responsive alternative to memory foam) to a 6″ support layer of industrial coils. Heavy sleepers may find the right mix of comfort and support on this mattress. However, if you sleep on your side, make sure to take a look at the Titan Plus Luxe mattress, because it offers more softness and comfort than the standard Plus.
What our testers say: “I found the Titan Plus to be a good match for back and stomach sleeping. In both positions, I felt very supported and didn’t feel like my spine was getting out of alignment. I felt some serious pressure on my shoulders and hips while side sleeping, but I did not have this issue on the softer Titan Plus Luxe.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Titan Plus
While many mattresses aren’t made to support much weight, the Titan Plus is rated to support up to 1,000 lb. This means even larger couples will get all the support that they need, and the mattress should still last for a number of years without sagging.
It is a firm mattress that will be supportive enough for heavier stomach sleepers. All stomach sleepers need support under their hips, and heavier people need even more support. The Titan Plus was up to the challenge when I was stomach sleeping, and I weigh over 270 lb.
What to Keep in Mind About the Titan Plus
Heavyweight side sleepers should try the Titan Plus Luxe. This mattress adds even more plush comfort to the top of the mattress, so you should get the right amount of pressure relief on your shoulders and hips.
While most heavyweight back sleepers will like this mattress, it might still feel too firm for some. For a bit more give without feeling too soft, I recommend the Helix Plus mattress.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.5
Birch
Birch Natural
Firm Feel
Sustainably Made
Responsive
Latex mattress
100-night sleep trial
Free shipping
Black Friday Sale
Use code BF25 and save 25% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase See Details
The Birch Natural is a latex hybrid mattress. It has both cushioning latex and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated this mattress 7/10. This is just slightly firmer than average.
Price
$1,498-$2,498 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Stomach Sleepers
Supportive enough for stomach sleepers under 230 lbs.
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Hot Sleepers
This bed’s cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Pros of the Birch Natural
The Birch Natural is made with sustainable materials that have earned certifications from multiple third-party organizations, including GOTS and GREENGUARD.
Thanks to the latex layer, this bed is a bouncy, responsive mattress. Combination sleepers will appreciate how easy it is to change positions on it.
Ventilated latex and individually wrapped coils make for a breathable, cool night’s rest on this bed. Hot sleepers shouldn’t have to worry about this mattress trapping heat.
Cons of the Birch Natural
This bed is likely too firm to provide the cushioning most side sleepers need.
With such a responsive surface, this mattress won’t offer much motion isolation.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
25-year warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period. A removal fee of $99 will be deducted from your refund.
The Birch Natural is a great option if you’re looking for a sustainable, responsive bed. It features natural latex and individually wrapped coils for comfort and support. Its firmness is best suited to back and stomach sleepers under 230 lbs, though, so side sleeepers should opt for a softer bed, like the Helix Midnight. Learn more in our video review.
Our Expert’s Take
I’ve mentioned a few cooling mattresses on this list but, if you sleep extremely hot, check out the Birch. The Birch mattress is a medium-firm latex hybrid mattress that won’t make you overheat at night. The individually-wrapped coils help provide airflow throughout the mattress, and the aerated latex and wool layers help provide breathability that will help keep hot sleepers cool. This is not surprising, given that latex does not trap heat the way memory foam is known to do. Plus, the very materials that make this a good cooling mattress also happen to be eco-friendly, specifically the wool and latex.
What the testers say: “I liked the Birch for back sleeping. My hips sink into the top layers, but only just. In addition, I feel the latex foam supporting my lumbar area to give me some cushioning and help prevent lower back pain. Moving to my side, I could have use more cushioning for my shoulders and hips.” – Marten Carlson, Reviewer
What We Love About the Birch
It’s a good option for back and stomach sleepers. The thick latex foam creates a firmer sleeping surface that will offer support for both of these positions. Back sleepers who want more cushioning can also opt for the extra pillow top.
It features organic materials that are more eco-friendly than foams found in other mattresses. The Birch mattress adheres to organic mattress standards and features all-natural materials such as organic cotton, wool and Talalay latex.
This durable mattress should be a good match for heavy people. The latex and other materials are designed to stand up to years of use without sagging. Heavy people may experience this with soft foam mattresses, but not with the Birch.
What to Keep in Mind About the Birch
It doesn’t let you sink in very far. If you prefer to sleep more “inside” your mattress, find something with memory foam.
If you are a side sleeper or like a very soft mattress, you should look elsewhere. Even with the additional pillow top, the Birch is at least a medium-firm mattress. Take a look at the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mentioned earlier.
Other User Reviews
Out of almost 2000 reviews on the Birch website, the mattress scored around 4.7/5 with customers. Some users complained that the mattress was overpriced and not as comfortable as other mattresses they had tried. Others said the mattress began to sag prematurely. However, there were many happy customers who enjoyed the comfortable organic materials.
Not seeing what you’re looking for? Take our mattress quiz for the most personalized mattress recommendations.
Things to Consider When Shopping for a Comfortable Mattress
Just because a company or store advertises that a mattress is extremely comfortable, that doesn’t mean it’s going to work for all types of sleepers. Prospective customers should consider the following when looking for a comfortable mattress:
Sleeping Position
It might be tempting to find the softest mattress, but this also might not work for someone’s specific sleeping position. For example:
Back sleepers might want to look for a medium-firm mattress with an excellent balance of comfort and support.
Side sleepers should think about a softer mattress with good pressure relief. They’ll want to ensure they don’t feel pressure on their shoulders and hips because this can lead to pain and extreme discomfort.
For those who sleep on their stomach, an extra firm mattress might be most comfortable. If the mattress is too soft, their hips could bow into the layers, and they could feel some significant back pain.
If someone’s looking for a comfortable mattress, they’ll definitely want to consider their size and weight. For someone on the smaller side, a mattress like the Saatva might feel too firm, as the sleeper might not be heavy enough to activate the comfort layers.
If you’re a larger person, you also want to make sure your mattress is nice and durable. If not, it could start to sag under your weight, and it won’t feel quite so comfortable anymore. You should take a close look at the mattress warranty to see exactly what is covered if your mattress does start to sag. Also, when buying a mattress, ask yourself, “Do you need a box spring?” You want to make sure your mattress is properly supported.
Finally, here are three comfortable mattresses that should work for heavy people:
Helix is a brand known for customizing mattresses to fit customers’ specific needs. After taking a sleep quiz on the company’s website, people of all sizes will get a personalized recommendation. Heavier people can also choose the Helix Plus, a mattress made just for larger people.
The Layla is a flippable mattress that offers two firmnesses. The soft side should work for heavier side sleepers and the firm side should be better for back-sleeping.
The Bear features that slow-moving memory foam feel and, while it feels a bit firm at first, it slowly starts to soften up. Heavier people should feel fantastic contouring when they’re back-sleeping.
What type of mattress is going to be most comfortable? Speaking purely in terms of comfort, memory foam mattresses are usually at the top of the list. This material lets sleepers sink in, and it relieves pressure on points such as the shoulders and hips. Latex mattresses can be very comfortable as well, and it also features better bounce.
In general, innerspring mattresses offer the least amount of soft comfort. Pillow-tops can help, but with all other factors put aside, an innerspring mattress can rarely compete with memory foam in terms of pure comfort.
A Partner’s Needs
If a person sleeps with a partner, they want to make sure their mattress is comfortable for both of them, especially if they each have different sleeping preferences. For instance, if someone sleeps on their side and is a heavier person, their idea of comfort might differ from that of a lighter-weight back sleeper.
When it comes to selecting a mattress for both partners, compromise is the name of the game. Find a mattress that can offer both partners a bit of the comfort they’re looking for.
Temperature Needs
When it comes to keeping hot sleepers cool, innerspring mattresses are going to be the better bet. Memory foam is known to capture body heat and redirect it back to sleepers, which can cause them to feel hot at night.
That being said, many foam mattress producers often add other features (such as cooling covers and breathable foams) to help combat this issue. In the end, pay close attention to what the mattress has to offer in terms of cooling features, and we make sure to run every mattress through our comprehensive temperature regulation test. In this, we measure the surface temperature of the mattress using a thermal camera. We then re-measure it after one of our testers has rested on the mattress for several minutes. This give us a good sense of how much heat the mattress absorbs and retains. The lower the difference between the first reading and the second reading, the better the mattress is at regulating temperature.
Summary
Here’s a summary of our top picks for the most comfortable mattresses:
What is the most comfortable mattress for people with back pain?
The Helix Midnight Luxe should be a great option for people with back pain. The additional lumbar support from the zoned coils combined with the pressure-reliving foam makes it a great pick. Whether you sleep on your back or side, you’ll get the support and comfort just where you need it. This will keep your spine neutrally aligned, preventing and easing back pain.
What is the most comfortable mattress for side sleepers?
Side sleepers of many sizes should consider the Brooklyn Bedding Signature mattress. Its Soft model offers excellent pressure relief along the shoulders and hips. When side sleeping, most of your weight is concentrated in these areas, but the plush layers on top of the Brooklyn Bedding should ease most pressure.
What is the most comfortable mattress for back sleepers?
Back sleepers want to find a mattress with a good balance of comfort and support. This often means choosing a mattress with coils somewhere in its construction. The Nolah Signature is a medium-firm mattress and offers the comfort of proprietary AirFoam and the support of durable base foam.
Featured image: Ana Blazic Pavlovic/Shutterstock
Subscribe to Mattress Clarity!
Get special coupons, discounts, and giveaways!
Marten Carlson
Lead Mattress Reviewer
About Author
Marten has been writing about mattresses and sleep health for six years. He is the lead reviewer at Mattress Clarity where he tests mattresses, bedding, and sleep accessories.
In his role here, Marten’s reviewed over 500 mattresses and 150 sleep accessories (so you can rest assured that if he recommends a product, it’s been put through the wringer in our Austin studio). In addition, he has written more than 400 articles reviewing the quality of sleep and sleep products as well as sleep health. He’s especially interested in the correlation between sleep and mental health.
Marten’s also got a personal stake in sleep health. After writing dozens of pieces on the dangers of sleep apnea, he decided to get tested for the condition. Realizing he did, in fact, suffer from sleep apnea, he immediately started using a CPAP machine. He knows all too well the importance of a healthy night’s sleep and is passionate about helping others get the healthy, restorative sleep they deserve.
He received his bachelor’s degree in Film Production from Denison University and his master’s degree in Film Studies from Emory University.
