There’s no doubt that a mattress is an investment. Choosing the right mattress promotes good, restorative sleep, which has tremendous health benefits. Research shows poor sleep can increase the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and dementia. ( 1 ) But a good mattress shouldn’t break your budget.
Our team of sleep science coaches, industry experts, and consumers set out to find the best cheap mattresses on the market. We researched dozens of the best mattresses on the market, honing in on those offering a balance of quality materials and features at affordable prices. We narrowed our list to the top 10 based on specific consumer-focused criteria.
Best affordable mattress overall
The Emma Hybrid Comfort mattress scored best overall in our top affordable mattress list. It combines individually wrapped springy coils with layers of cushioning memory foam to make a comfortable and supportive bed. The best part? The price tag won’t shock you, but the deep discounts will. When you buy the Emma Hybrid Comfort, you’ll get a quality mattress for a steal.
Our picks for the best affordable mattresses in 2024
- Best overall: Emma Hybrid Comfort
- Best medium-firm: Nectar Original
- Best for back sleepers: Bear Original
- Best hybrid: Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
- Best for heavy people: Titan Plus
- Best cooling: Silk & Snow Hybrid
- Best for hot sleepers: Cocoon Chill
- Best under $500: Siena Sleep Memory Foam Mattress
Compare affordable mattresses
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| Emma Hybrid Comfort | Nectar Original | Bear Original | Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid | Titan Plus | Silk & Snow Hybrid | Cocoon Chill | Siena Sleep Memory Foam Mattress | |
| Rating | ||||||||
| Materials | Hybrid (coils and foam) | Foam or hybrid (coils and foam) | Foam | Hybrid (coils and foam) | Hybrid (coils and foam) | Hybrid (coils and foam) | Foam or hybrid (coils and foam) | Foam |
| Trial period | 365 nights | 365 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 100 nights | 100 nights | 180 nights |
| Shipping cost | Free | Free | Free | Free | Free | Free | Free | Free |
| Firmness | Medium | Medium-firm | Medium-firm | Soft, medium, firm | Firm | Medium-firm | Medium | Medium-firm |
| Warranty | 10 years | Forever | Lifetime | 10 years | 10 years | 15 years | 10 years | 10 years |
| Price range (queen) | $1,319 | $1,099 (foam), $1,199 (hybrid) | $998 | $1,332 | $1,249 | $850 | $1,079 (foam), $1,389 (hybrid) | $799 |
*Prices do not include sales or promotions
How we chose the best affordable mattresses
The Fortune Recommends™ team includes certified sleep science coaches, industry experts, and consumers. We use a proprietary mattress testing methodology to select the best mattresses in any category. While price is always a factor during our evaluation, we put extra emphasis on that component during this roundup.
However, we didn’t just look for the mattresses with the cheapest price tag. Each mattress on our list earned its spot by proving it has more to offer in terms of materials, comfort, and support. We want to ensure you get a quality product that is aligned with your budget.
We started by combing and investigating the materials used to construct each mattress. Then, we put each mattress through the sleep test to get a “real world ” feel for how each fares on specific customer-focused factors. Some characteristics we look for include pressure point relief, spinal alignment, responsiveness, motion isolation, etc.
After assessing how well each mattress performed, we looked at other critical elements that can add value and complement the lower price point. We dug into each brand to verify which ones offered a solid sleep trial and warranty to have peace of mind when buying, knowing that you have time to try it before fully committing and the product is covered for years to come. Additionally, we looked closely at the shipping and return policies to ensure you aren’t surprised by any added costs.
We understand that even affordable mattresses are an investment, and we put every bit of research into testing budget-friendly mattresses as we do ones that cost thousands.
Best affordable mattress overall: Emma Hybrid Comfort
Key product features
What you should know
Through rigorous evaluation, the Emma Hybrid Comfort stands out as the best budget-friendly choice, blending comfort, quality, and innovative temperature regulation for a high-quality sleep experience without breaking the bank.
- Provides exceptional motion isolation, ensuring your partner’s movements won’t disrupt your sleep.
- At just $1,319 for a queen, it’s a standout choice for those seeking a budget-friendly option.
- The breathable materials and well-ventilated design make it an ideal choice for those who tend to sleep hot.
- Seven ergonomic zones make it great for people of all sizes and weights.
Why we like Emma Hybrid Comfort as the best overall affordable mattress
The Emma Hybrid Comfort mattress has earned its place as the best overall affordable mattress, as well as earning a spot as one of the best mattresses, thanks to its exceptional blend of affordability, comfort, and quality. At just $1,319 for a queen, it’s a standout choice for those seeking a budget-friendly option without sacrificing a luxurious sleep experience. We’ve been reviewing this mattress for a long time and find that it historically is on a deep discount promotion the majority of the time, which qualifies it for our list as a affordable mattress.
One of its most impressive features is the unique combination of CertiPUR-US® ( 2 ) memory foam and individually encased pocketed spring coils. This combination offers an ideal blend of contouring support and responsiveness. The mattress cradles your body to alleviate pressure points. “A mattress can either alleviate or worsen lower back pain based on its features,” states Dr. Raj Dasgupta MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM. “Alleviation is promoted by proper spinal alignment, medium-firm to firm support, pressure relief from materials like memory foam or latex, zoned support, and motion isolation. Exacerbation occurs with insufficient support, inadequate cushioning, mattress sagging and wrong firmness.”
It also provides exceptional motion isolation, ensuring your partner’s movements won’t disrupt sleep. Our product tester noted the mattress has “really good motion isolation” and that they could barely feel jumping.
With seven ergonomic zones for optimal spinal alignment and enhanced support, this bed is great for people of all sizes and weights.
Moreover, the mattress’s temperature regulation technology helps ensure you stay relaxed and comfortable throughout the night. The breathable materials and well-ventilated design help dissipate excess heat, making it an ideal choice for those who tend to sleep hot.
With remarkable qualities, the Emma Hybrid Comfort mattress is a top pick that promises a restful and rejuvenating night’s sleep without stretching your budget.
Specs
| Material | Hybrid |
| Warranty | 10 years |
| Firmness | Medium |
| Trial period | 365 nights |
| Shipping | Free |
| Weight (Queen) | 96 lbs |
| Height | 13″ tall |
Best affordable medium-firm mattress: Nectar Original
Key product features
What you should know
The Nectar Original mattress delivers unparalleled comfort and support at an unbeatable price, featuring advanced motion isolation and a choice between memory foam or hybrid designs for a restful sleep that works for you.
- Customers rave about their Nectar Original mattress and say it relieves back aches.
- Nectar often offers generous sales that knock hundreds off the original cost.
- Three inches of foam provides support while allowing airflow, minimizing motion transfer, and promoting better spinal alignment.
- Its motion isolation capabilities help ensure you can enjoy an undisturbed and restful night’s sleep.
Why we like Nectar Original as the best affordable medium-firm mattress
The Nectar Original mattress is affordable, supportive, and comfortable, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a medium-firm sleep surface. It’s available in either a multi-layered Certi-PUR-US® memory foam construction or a hybrid incorporating innerspring coils. Whichever you choose, you get a bed that contours to your body while providing the right level of support and pressure point relief.
During our testing, we found that the Nectar Original exceeds in support and spinal alignment. While there are no bells or whistles, our tester did feel supported on this bed. The foam offers a nice cushion for joints. The mattress is very plush, and our tested noted that their entire body was sinking in but their hips were sinking in way more than the rest of their body.
The Nectar Original mattress minimizes disturbances caused by a sleeping partner’s movements. Its motion isolation capabilities help ensure you can enjoy an undisturbed and restful night’s sleep. Additionally, this mattress uses a gel-infused memory foam layer and a dynamic response layer to help reduce pressure points.
Dr. Raj adds, “A mattress that provides optimal support and pressure relief typically possesses qualities such as medium-firmness, contouring materials like memory foam or latex, zoned support, responsive materials, pocketed coils, layered construction, strong edge support, and proper alignment for the spine.”
Nectar often offers generous sales that knock hundreds off the original cost of the Nectar Original ($1,099 for a queen-size memory foam or $1,199 for a queen-size hybrid). The company also offers a generous year-long sleep trial and a “forever” warranty. You can test it out at home and have long-term peace of mind. With its affordability, medium-firm support, and motion isolation, the Nectar Original mattress is a solid choice for those seeking a budget-friendly medium-firm mattress.
What customers are saying
With over 7,200 ratings, averaging 4.3 stars out of 5 on Amazon, customers note that they like the quality of the mattress, saying it improves sleep and helps them sleep without pain.
“This mattress, in my opinion, is the best mattress on the market regardless of the price,” boasted verified Amazon reviewer, Gary. “I don’t know how any other mattress can compare when you look at the price, comfort, quality, and the 365-day trial guarantee. This mattress is not too hard and it is not so soft that you sink into it. It’s so comfortable that I want to lie down on it every time I walk by it. When I go to bed, I’m out in minutes and I sleep all night! I’m confident that if you buy this mattress, you’ll end up keeping it!”
Another verified Amazon reviewer, Ron, praises the mattress’s firmness, stating, “The mattress was much firmer than expected—I assumed it would be a bit too soft. The support was instantaneous and quick to react to shifting positions. The reaction time is amazing, there’s little to no feeling of being sucked in and unable to move. I tend to sleep near the edge and found the support to be surprisingly consistent, not once did it feel like I would fall off the bed.”
However, some customers, like verified Amazon reviewer with the username “JS” thinks it’s too firm.
“This bed is very firm—it is not medium firmness in any way. The bed came out of the box and expanded to a normal-looking mattress, I was impressed. The overall quality is very high. Everything was going great until I lied on the mattress. It is hard, and in no way medium or even remotely soft. Some people who love a firm, actually hard, mattress may find this perfect. For me it is just too hard, I even put a foam topper on it and it was still too hard.”
Specs
| Material | Foam or hybrid |
| Warranty | Forever |
| Firmness | Medium-firm |
| Trial period | 365 nights |
| Shipping | Free |
| Weight (Queen) | 66 lbs |
| Height | 12″ tall |
Best affordable mattress for back sleepers: Bear Original
Key product features
What you should know
The Bear Original mattress, tailored for back sleepers, combines medium-firm support, advanced cooling technology, and an innovative Celliant-infused cover to enhance muscle recovery and ensure a comfortable, restorative sleep at an affordable price.
- Not as effective at isolating motion and may not be a great option for couples.
- When Bear offers deep discounts, the mattress’s low price of $998 becomes even more attractive.
- Accommodates most sleepers, especially those who predominantly sleep on their backs.
- It features cooling graphite gel-infused memory foam to prevent overheating.
Why we like Bear Original as the best affordable mattress for back sleepers
Designed with a medium-firm feel, the Bear Original mattress accommodates most types of sleeping positions , especially those who predominantly sleep on their backs. It features a combination of memory foam and responsive foams that contour to the body while providing excellent spinal alignment and lumbar support. This construction helps ensure back sleepers experience a restful and pain-free night’s sleep.
The Bear Original mattress has an optional Celliant cover, which adds about $130 to your order. The Celliant cover reflects infrared light, promoting better blood circulation and aiding muscle recovery. ( 3 ) This technology is particularly beneficial for back sleepers, as it helps improve overall sleep quality and rejuvenation during the night.
During testing, we rated the bounce and responsiveness of the mattress a four out of five. This is because our tester noticed that their body was not sinking in and there was little to no body contouring. You can move around easily and switch positions because you are lying on top of the bed.
“Back sleepers should focus on a medium-firm mattress for proper spinal alignment and support,” notes Dr. Raj. “Pressure relief is important, especially in the lumbar area. Zoned support, motion isolation and strong edge support enhance comfort. Choose materials such as breathability, durability, trial periods and warranties.”
Additionally, the Bear Original mattress excels in temperature regulation. ( 4 ) It features cooling graphite gel-infused memory foam and breathable materials, which can prevent overheating. With its medium-firm support, spinal alignment features, and cooling properties, the Bear Original mattress is an excellent choice for budget-conscious back sleepers. When Bear offers deep discounts, the mattress’s low price of $649 becomes even more attractive.
Our list of the best mattresses for back sleepers is a great resource to find more detailed picks based on your preferences and needs.
Specs
| Material | Foam |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Firmness | Medium-firm |
| Trial period | 120 nights |
| Shipping | Free |
| Weight (Queen) | 70 lbs |
| Height | 10″ tall |
Best affordable hybrid mattress: Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
Key product features
What you should know
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid combines the best of innerspring and foam for unmatched support and comfort across various firmness levels. This makes it a top pick for diverse sleeping preferences and an excellent value at $1,332.
- Foams may release some off-gassing odors after unboxing.
- At a regular price of $1,332, it falls on the lower price range for a hybrid mattress.
- It comes in firm, soft, and medium firmness levels, perfect for all sleep types.
- Provides moisture-wicking breathability.
Why we like Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid as the best hybrid affordable mattress
When looking for the best hybrid mattresses , we found that the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress marries the benefits of both innerspring and foam. The secret lies in its innovative construction, which combines individually wrapped coils with several layers of foam for optimal support and cushioning. This design provides exceptional spinal alignment and pressure point relief and ensures durability. The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid can be a fantastic long-term investment for budget-conscious shoppers.
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid caters to various sleep preferences. It comes in firm, soft, and medium firmness levels, allowing you to select the one that suits your specific comfort needs. It also comes in various sizes, including short queen, short king, and Olympic queen, California king, and three RV king sizes.
A cloud pillow top is also available for added softness, but it’ll add about $300 to the cost of your mattress.
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid also excels in motion isolation and edge support, making it a good choice for couples or those who often sit on the edge of the bed to get dressed or put on shoes. During our evaluation, our product tester noticed barely any sinkage. They found it incredibly comfortable, and they didn’t feel like they were going to fall off. They noted that their body felt supported, making this a good choice for those with mobility issues to get in and out of bed.
Because Brooklyn Bedding manufactures all of its bedding products, there are no middleman costs.
Pricing is impressive even without a regular promotional discount applied. At a regular price of $1,332, the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid falls on the lower price range for a hybrid mattress.
What customers are saying
Customers on Amazon love the mattress for its elite comfort and support. They mention that it’s soft but firm enough to support their back and facilitate side sleeping.
“Even though this is a bed-in-a-box item, it is very thick in depth like a store mattress,” begins verified Amazon reviewer Christine. “Best mattress ever. The edges are very firm, so you can sit on the edge of the bed and not slide or roll off. Motion transfer is good too. You can move around on one side while the other side stays still. Also, it inflated immediately—no waiting a day for it to get to its proper size. No drawbacks, really, just heavy when trying to lift it onto the bed frame and remove the wrapping. A two-man job. Took me 45 minutes to do it myself. Overall, it’s a great product.”
However, some customers note it may be too firm for side sleepers, like verified Amazon reviewer Randy.
“A quality bed with excellent customer service. Unfortunately, this bed did not work out for me and I returned it. I ordered the Signature and tried both the full foam version and the recent hybrid coil. On both mattresses, the feel is very plush for the first couple of inches. They get firm, however, when you get settled in for sleeping. I am a side sleeper, 6’3″ 200lbs, and I have pressure points in my shoulders and hips. Brooklyn Bedding provided extremely good customer service to try and get a good sleep situation for me.”
Specs
| Material | Hybrid |
| Warranty | 10 years |
| Firmness | Soft, medium, firm |
| Trial period | 120 nights |
| Shipping | Free |
| Weight (Queen) | 95 lbs |
| Height | 13.25″ tall |
Best affordable mattress for heavy people: Titan Plus
Key product features
What you should know
The Titan Plus mattress is designed for heavy individuals ( 5 ) thanks to the durable high-density foam support core and reinforced with heavy-duty steel coils. It combines firm support, motion isolation, and durability to handle up to 300 lbs, making it the best choice for robust comfort and long-term investment.
- Hybrid construction provides added breathability and coolness.
- Add the GlacioTex™ Cooling Cover paired with a dual layer of cozy pillow top foam that provides ultimate contouring and pressure point relief.
- Specifically engineered to handle the additional weight of sleepers who weigh up to 300 pounds.
- Features a combination of high-density foam layers and heavy-duty coils.
Why we like Titan Plus as the best affordable mattress for heavy people
The Titan Plus mattress takes the crown as the best mattress for heavy people. Specifically designed for heavier individuals, this mattress offers exceptional support and durability without compromising affordability.
Its strength lies in its robust construction, which combines high-density foam layers and heavy-duty coils. These materials are specifically engineered to handle the additional weight of sleepers who weigh up to 300 pounds. This design provides a firm and supportive sleep surface and ensures that the mattress maintains its structural integrity over time, making it a smart investment for those looking for a reliable and budget-friendly option.
Our product tester rated the mattress’s support and spinal alignment an impressive five out of five. “My body was incredibly supported. It definitely has an on-top mattress feel. There is no sinkage whatsoever, and my entire body was lifted,” they stated.
The firm surface of the Titan Plus does an exceptional job of quickly responding to your movements, isolating motion for reduced motion transfer, and keeping the spine in optimal alignment. For an additional $100 or so, you can add a Glaciotex Cooling Cover. But even without the cooling cover, the mattress sleeps pretty cool ( 6 ), thanks to its quilted top with gel-infused foam.
Specs
| Material | Hybrid |
| Warranty | 10 years |
| Firmness | Firm |
| Trial period | 120 nights |
| Shipping | Free |
| Weight (Queen) | 95 lbs |
| Height | 11.25″ tall |
Best affordable cooling mattress: Silk & Snow Hybrid
Key product features
What you should know
The Silk & Snow Hybrid mattress is the ultimate solution for hot sleepers, providing exceptional cooling, balanced support, and a breathable antimicrobial cover for a refreshing night’s sleep without compromising affordability.
- The breathable antimicrobial cover helps prevent bacteria growth while enhancing the mattress’s temperature regulation capabilities.
- Extra firm perimeter prevents flattening when sitting on the edge and reinforces the structure.
- It offers an exceptional cooling experience, perfect for hot sleepers, without compromising support or price.
- The combination of foam and coils provides excellent support and pressure relief.
Why we like Silk & Snow Hybrid as the best cooling affordable mattress
As the name suggests, this hybrid mattress is as refreshing as sleeping on silk and snow. Designed with hot sleepers in mind, it offers an exceptional cooling experience without compromising on support or affordability.
The Silk & Snow Hybrid combines quilted foam, high-density memory foam, and pocketed coils. The innerspring core is firmer in the middle. This zoned support ensures reliable and balanced support. The combination of foam and coils provides excellent support and pressure relief. It also effectively dissipates heat, ensuring you stay cool and comfortable throughout the night.
We especially like the breathable antimicrobial cover. The cover helps prevent bacteria growth while enhancing the mattress’s temperature regulation capabilities. The mattress promotes airflow and prevents heat buildup, making it one of the best cooling mattresses for those who sleep hot.
What customers are saying
On Reddit, most reviewers of this mattress find it firm and supportive, despite being quite soft to the touch.
A Redditor with the username “huisit” says, “This mattress is soft to the touch. In my opinion, the quilted foam provides a perfect amount of give before you reach the memory foam layer. It seems soft when you’re sitting or crawling on it, but when you lay down it doesn’t sink in that much. It’s very clear that this is a hybrid mattress, and I like it.”
They go on to add how the lumbar zone support is noticeable, noticing that if they scoot away from the vertical middle, they could feel their hips dig into the mattress.
“This feature helps my back pain but hasn’t completely resolved it. I think it’s worse on nights when I accidentally roll away from the support zone, but I imagine that taller people won’t have as much wiggle room for that to happen. Honestly, the rest of my back pain comes down to posture and ab strength, so I’m happy with the support I get here.”
Most complaints on Reddit for this mattress are based on shipping issues, with one Redditor noting the mattress was delayed by five days.
Specs
| Material | Hybrid |
| Warranty | 15 years |
| Firmness | Medium-firm |
| Trial period | 100 nights |
| Shipping | Free |
| Weight (Queen) | 94 lbs |
| Height | 12″ tall |
Best affordable mattress for hot sleepers: Cocoon Chill
Key product features
What you should know
The Cocoon Chill mattress, designed for hot sleepers, combines advanced cooling technology and versatile foam or hybrid options to deliver comfort and support at a budget-friendly price. This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking relief and value.
- Only available in medium firmness, which may not be supportive enough for some sleepers.
- It usually costs just over $1,079, but you can find it for as low as $699 during promotional periods.
- Cooling cover and breathable layer of innerspring coils help keep this mattress cool all night.
- Perfect fit memory foam that uniquely adapts to you.
Why we like Cocoon Chill as the best affordable mattress for hot sleepers
The Cocoon Chill mattress excels in providing a cool and comfortable night’s sleep without stretching your budget. Designed with temperature regulation in mind, this mattress incorporates advanced cooling technology to help hot sleepers stay comfortably cool throughout the night.
One nice thing about the Cocoon Chill mattress is its versatility. It comes in all foam or hybrid, providing choices for multiple sleeping preferences. Both contain layers of CertiPUR-US® memory foam and polyfoam, which provide cushioning and pressure relief.
A breathable cover made of cooling phase change materials tops the entire mattress. The cover helps keep the surface of the mattress cool all night. The hybrid version has an added layer of individually wrapped pocketed coils that promote breathability while delivering balanced support across the entire mattress.
Beyond its impressive cooling, the Cocoon Chill does a great job of relieving pressure on the hips and shoulders. It also helps align the spine properly to reduce back and neck strains. Our product testers rated the mattress a seven out of ten for mattress firmness. One product tester noted that the mattress is “super hard” and doesn’t have any sinkage. However, another tester did notice that his body felt like it was sinking into the mattress. They thought the mattress felt firm, was supportive, their body was lifted, and their spine aligned.
Its attractive price tag and the manufacturer’s deep sales are bonuses. It usually costs just over $1,079, but you can find it for as low as $699 during promotional periods.
Specs
| Material | Foam or hybrid |
| Warranty | 10 years |
| Firmness | Medium |
| Trial period | 100 nights |
| Shipping | Free |
| Weight (Queen) | 73.2 lbs |
| Height | Up to 12″ tall |
Best affordable mattress under $500: Siena Sleep Memory Foam Mattress
Key product features
What you should know
The Siena Sleep Memory Foam mattress delivers exceptional value at just $399 for a queen, providing a comfortable, supportive sleep experience. It also comes with advanced motion isolation, making it great for couples and suitable for all types of sleepers.
- Constructed with a four-inch stability foam layer topped with four inches of convoluted foam and a layer of pressure-relieving gel-infused memory foam.
- When the manufacturer throws in a big discount, the price can drop to well below $500.
- Its medium-firm feel is ideal for back and belly sleepers.
- Five quality layers, including two inches of gel memory foam, provide pressure relief, comfort, and support.
Why we like Siena Sleep Memory Foam Mattress as the best affordable mattress under $500
Priced at $799, the Siena Sleep Memory Foam mattress is an affordable mattress on its own. But when the manufacturer throws in a big discount, the price can drop below $500. As of this writing, a queen costs just $399 for a queen. Despite its wallet-friendly price tag, this mattress offers an impressive blend of comfort and support, making it a fantastic value for those looking for a quality sleep solution without breaking the bank.
During our evaluation, our testers noted that the mattress has very little sinkage for lightweight, average-weight sleepers, but more sinkage the heavier you are. Despite this, they found the mattress does a great job at keeping you propped up and supported.
“Overall, I felt the Siena had a very firm feel. Lying on the bed, I felt very “on top” of the bed and didn’t experience much sinking in or pressure relief,” says our product tester.
The Siena Sleep Memory Foam mattress is constructed with a four-inch stability foam layer topped with four inches of convoluted foam and a layer of pressure-relieving gel-infused memory foam. A soft, durable, and breathable cover tops the entire mattress.
The three layers of CertiPUR-US® foams work together to provide ample pressure relief, making it a good choice for side sleepers. Its medium-firm feel also makes it ideal for back and belly sleepers. And with excellent motion isolation qualities, this budget-friendly bed can be a great option for couples.
What customers are saying
On Amazon, the Siena Sleep Memory Foam mattress has over 400 ratings, averaging 4.5 out of 5 stars, with customers appreciating the quality of the bed, stating it’ll last for years.
Verified Amazon reviewer Leila says, “The mattress is easy to set up. It’s very comfortable and there is no more backache for me. I sleep so well now that I don’t want to get out of bed.”
Another verified Amazon reviewer, Susan, compares it to her old Tempur-Pedic, stating, “I found this mattress to be pretty firm but comfortable and very supportive where it needed to be. I’ve had it for a couple of months and I sleep much better now than I did on my Tempur-Pedic and don’t wake up to turn over nearly as much as I did.”
One reviewer warns that this might not be the best choice for stomach sleepers.
“If you sleep on your stomach or partially face down you’ll sink in and your back will be killing you in a matter of hours. If you stay on your side or back it’s not bad. I liked that it came in a medium box and was easy to carry,” says verified Amazon reviewer Marcus.
Specs
| Material | Foam |
| Warranty | 10 years |
| Firmness | Medium-firm |
| Trial period | 180 nights |
| Shipping | Free |
| Weight (Queen) | 68 lbs |
| Height | 10″ tall |
Other affordable mattresses we reviewed
Throughout our extensive testing, we were fortunate to find many affordable mattresses offering a solid sleep experience. While some fell short of making our top 10 list, these honorable mentions are still worth noting.
The Dreamfoam Essential is one of the most customizable budget mattresses we reviewed, with five firmness levels and 22 size options to choose from. It’s also one of the least expensive, with a six-inch Queen mattress often on sale for only $366. As an all-foam mattress, we found it excels at contouring your body’s shape and offering pressure relief. The gel foam integrated into the top layer reduces the traditional heat-trapping memory foam effect to help keep body temperature regulated. Unfortunately, the durability of this mattress comes into question, as we found some buyers complained of sagging and deteriorating materials.
Available through Amazon, the Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam offers a unique approach to memory foam for just $605 for its thickest Queen-size model. The green tea infusion into the top memory foam layer helps keep the mattress feeling fresh all night, a distinct characteristic we didn’t find in other mattresses. When lying on this mattress, we felt it offered a soft, sinking feel that provides ideal pressure relief for side sleepers and individuals needing pain relief. However, this softness and lack of bounce may rule this mattress out for many others, including combination and stomach sleepers, and those with heavy weights. Additionally, our testers found it lived up to memory foam’s heat-trapping reputation, so hot sleepers will want to look elsewhere.
What to consider when buying an affordable mattress
The Linenspa Hybrid ’s biggest highlight is its price point at merely $239 for a Queen mattress. A thin layer of poly foam combines with a supportive innerspring layer, offering a firm surface that helps keep the body lifted and the spine in a neutral position. Back and stomach sleepers may benefit most from this degree of support. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option for a kid’s bedroom, guest room, or new apartment, this mattress can be an excellent pick. While it’s highly rated on Amazon, our testers weren’t as impressed with this mattress as others they assessed. The thin and flimsy feel leaves much to desire with no contouring, minimal edge support, and poor motion isolation. Additionally, Linenspa only offers a 30-day trial period, which is far inferior to many other brands.
There are several considerations to keep in mind while you’re shopping for a mattress. For example, you must consider which mattress best suits your sleep style and needs.
“Memory foam contours for personalized support but may retain heat easily,” begins Dr. Raj. “Latex offers resilience and allergen resistance. Innerspring mattresses provide firmer support and motion transfer. Hybrid mattresses blend foam and coils for balanced comfort and cooling. Gel-infused mattresses regulate temperature. Pillow-top mattresses offer extra cushioning but may lose effectiveness over time. The impact varies mostly on factors like body weight and sleeping positions.”
Side sleepers usually prefer a bed with more cushioning to relieve joint pressure. Stomach sleepers need a firmer mattress to help ease back pain. Some beds are better at keeping the spine aligned. Others are great at isolating motion, making them ideal for sleepers with restless partners.
Another consideration is the bed’s materials. Most mattresses contain either all foam or a combination of foam and innerspring. Each has its pros and cons. If you sleep hot, you may prefer a hybrid or latex foam mattress or a memory foam with cooling technology.
Note the mattress company or retailer’s return policy, sleep trial period, and warranty. And check out any online reviews from customers. Those are usually your best sources for honest takes on your preferred mattress.
Pros and cons of affordable mattresses
Choosing a mattress that’s right for you will always come down to personal preferences and needs, which means the pros and cons can look different for each individual, depending on their situation. However, there are some general considerations to ponder when considering whether an affordable mattress suits you well.
Pros
- Budget-friendly: Perhaps the most obvious advantage of affordable mattresses is that they’re easier on the wallet. While your sleep surface plays an essential role in your health and wellness, not everyone can or wants to spend a fortune on a mattress with all the latest bells and whistles.
- Comfort: You don’t have to spend a fortune to find comfort. How a mattress feels is subjective and based on personal preference. A simple mattress that aligns with your sleeping position and body type can offer comfort at a cheaper price. You may not need all the extra features and embellishments to wake up feeling refreshed and pain-free.
- Lighter-weight: With fewer material layers, affordable mattresses tend to be thinner and lighter. This can make getting the mattress to your room and setting it up easier. It can also be a significant benefit when it comes time to rotate or flip the mattress as part of the care routine.
Cons
- Less durability: A common way manufacturers cut costs on their mattresses is in the materials used to construct them. Thinner mattresses and lower-quality materials may cause them to break down and need replacing sooner than their more expensive counterparts.
- Fewer features: Another cost driver is the number of extra perks included in the mattress, such as advanced cooling technology, plush mattress toppers, and eco-friendly materials. Affordable mattresses typically offer fewer of these options.
- Off-gassing: After unboxing, many of the affordable mattresses we tested emitted significantly stronger odors than some of the more expensive options. Off-gassing can be unpleasant, but the odors are mostly harmless and dissipate after a day or two. Some individuals may experience minor effects, like headaches or throat irritation, but you can mitigate the impact by unpacking your mattress in an area with good ventilation.
How we test mattresses
At the heart of our mattress evaluation is a blend of research and hands-on experience. Our expert testers, reviewers, and fact-checkers comprise certified sleep science coaches, seasoned industry experts, and real-world consumers. We test each mattress, capturing our findings through the same process, ensuring our reviews are reliable and rooted in genuine user experiences. Read our full mattress testing methodology for more information.
Sleep experience—30%
A high-quality mattress should feel like it’s designed to provide you with the best sleep of your life. They should also deliver on the promise of a great sleep experience. Our sleep science coaches assess various factors to reflect the functional aspects of the mattress as well as the user’s sleep experience. Here’s what we’re looking for:
- Temperature regulation: A lot of people think how hot or cold they get at night has more to do with their mattress than it actually does. Your sleep temperature has more to do with your personal physiology, sleep attire, and bedding than it does with how your mattress is constructed. But your mattress does play a role in temperature regulation. We test mattresses over a range of conditions so you can figure out for yourself if your sleep routine will have you sleeping hot, cold, or just right.
- Motion isolation: If you have a sleeping partner, especially one who sleeps lighter than you, knowing if you’ll disturb them when moving in or getting out of bed is critically important. We test for motion transfer and motion isolation at various distances from edge to center to give you the intel you need to understand if your movement will disturb your partner.
- Edge support: Everyone wants a comfortable mattress that helps them sleep well and doesn’t cause additional discomfort or aches and pains. This often means using materials that form your body and reduce friction points. But when getting in/out of bed, getting ready, or even working, having a mattress with edges that give too much or are too soft can be a real problem. We test mattress edges to find the ones that offer the greatest support.
- Technology: This may come as a surprise, but some mattresses come equipped with a range of technological features to enhance sleep quality and comfort, such as sleep tracking ( 7 ), temperature control via mobile app, smart home integration, and even vibration features.
Comfort and support—30%
Alongside the sleep experience, comfort and support are just as important for a healthy and restful sleep. A high-quality mattress should assist in providing relief with certain aches and pains a user may experience when sleeping. It should also help users wake up feeling energized and rested. Here’s what we��re looking for:
- Firmness: How firm you prefer the mattress is unique to you, but knowing if a mattress firmness rating matches your preference can be a bit trickier. Different manufacturers have different factors for determining firmness ratings. So, we’re measuring all mattresses with one central protocol to take out the guesswork.
- Pressure relief: Your unique body and sleep position(s) can determine if/how a mattress causes pressure or relieves it. Our range of testers try out each mattress to give you the best information possible.
- Spinal alignment support: Spinal alignment ( 8 ) is crucial for preventing back pain and ensuring a great night’s sleep. Our testers have a detailed process to examine how well a mattress maintains the spine in a natural position across various sleeping positions.
- Customization: Does the mattress offer adjustable firmness, removable cooling layers, split configurations, or removable covers?
Value—20%
Assessing value involves a meticulous examination of several key factors that contribute to a mattress’s worth. A mattress that is priced just within reach of its target audience yet surpasses competitors in terms of materials, performance, and support presents a compelling value proposition. However, value is not solely determined by the lowest price point. We also determine it by finding the balance between cost and the tangible benefits a mattress provides.
Customer experience—10%
Sometimes, the mattress can be great, but if the overall shopping experience wasn’t, that could easily put a sour taste in a user’s mouth about the mattress they just purchased. We put in the hours to determine how well the entire process of buying a mattress matches users’ expectations and what options are available when something goes wrong.
- Shipping : Mattresses are big and heavy, making shipping especially more challenging. We rate mattresses by factors such as shipping times/speeds, delivery service, mattress haul away and setup, and more.
- Warranty : If the company offers generous warranty policies, if something goes wrong, that’s a good sign. We’ll read every line and see if it’s worth it.
- Customer service: Companies that offer multiple contact methods and have helpful, knowledgeable customer service reps earn higher marks.
- Sleep trial : We favor mattress companies that offer free trials and give you some time to, quite literally, sleep on it.
Health and safety—10%
It’s important to understand that a mattress is more than just a sleeping surface—it’s an environment where you spend a significant portion of your life. We meticulously assess critical aspects of mattresses that may directly impact your well-being and peace of mind.
Our factors in this rating include:
- Hypoallergenic materials: With their ability to deter allergies ( 9 ), it’s obvious why some users would find this an important factor when choosing a mattress if they have allergies or sensitivities. This factor ensures your sleeping environment is conducive to health rather than a source of irritation.
- Off-gassing and chemical exposure: There is a concern that the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) ( 10 ) from mattress materials, such as polyurethane foam (used in memory foam mattresses), may affect air quality. We evaluate the extent of off-gassing and the safety of materials used, aiming for mattresses that minimize chemical exposure.
- Safety certifications: These serve as a benchmark for quality and safety, verifying that a mattress has met vigorous health and environmental standards. Our testers look for certifications such as CertiPUR-US®, OEKO-TEX® Standard 100, and Made Safe®.
FAQs
What is the most affordable mattress type?
The most affordable mattress type tends to be an innerspring mattress. Innerspring mattresses feature a coil support system and a thin layer of padding or foam. A high-quality innerspring mattress can cost as little as $500 for a queen.
How much should a decent mattress cost?
The amount you should spend on a mattress depends on your preferences, needs, and budget. Generally, you should be able to find a quality mattress that suits your comfort and support requirements for about $1,500 to $2,000, on average. Some luxury mattresses can set you back even more. However, it is possible to find a good mattress for well under $1,000.
How much is a cheap Queen mattress?
During our evaluation, we found quality, affordable Queen mattresses can range from under $800 to around $1,300 at full price. The prices listed throughout our review reflect Queen mattress sizing, so they should provide a good ballpark when assessing the cost. However, if those prices still feel out of range, you can save considerable money by shopping during holiday sales events, where you can often find mattresses for up to 50% off.
How long does a cheap mattress last?
The lifespan of a cheap mattress can vary significantly based on factors such as its quality, materials, and usage. A low-cost mattress might last anywhere from three to five years on average. However, some highly inexpensive mattresses may wear out even sooner, while slightly pricier budget options with better materials and construction could last closer to seven to 10 years with proper care.
Are cheap mattresses comfortable?
Cheap mattresses can vary in comfort depending on their quality and construction. While some inexpensive mattresses may offer adequate comfort for a short period, they often lack the durability, support, and premium materials in higher-priced options. Very cheap mattresses might not provide the level of comfort needed for a restful night’s sleep and may lead to discomfort or sagging over time.
However, there are budget-friendly mattresses available that offer reasonable comfort by using cost-effective materials and designs.
Are affordable mattresses worth it?
Affordable mattresses may not have all the extra features and luxury add-ons as their more expensive counterparts, but that doesn’t mean they don’t hold their value. Our testing looked beyond the price tag to ensure these mattresses offer a quality sleep surface and solid warranty that covers it for at least 10 years. Additionally, caring for your mattress by keeping it clean and rotating it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations can help it last longer, so you get your money’s worth.
Our experts
Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM
Quadruple-board certified in pulmonary, sleep, internal, and critical care medicine. An active clinical researcher, Dr. Raj currently practices at the University of Southern California, where he’s been awarded the Excellence in Teaching award six years in a row. He’s also an associate professor of clinical medicine, assistant program director of the internal medicine residency program, and the associate program director of the sleep medicine fellowship at USC.
Krista Manning
Krista Manning is an accomplished medical copy editor and fact-checker who stands out in the pharmaceutical, health, and wellness domains. With a meticulous eye for detail and a command of medical language, Krista ensures the accuracy and clarity of content. Beyond her professional expertise, Krista is an advocate for mental health awareness. Recognizing the crucial intersection of psychological and physical well-being, she actively contributes to projects that promote mental health awareness within the healthcare narrative. Krista’s commitment extends beyond the pages she edits, emphasizing the holistic nature of health communication.
Jennifer Walker-Journey
Fortune Recommends Writer
About Author
Jennifer Walker-Journey writes on a variety of topics, from law, healthcare, and pharmaceutical products to food, travel, and consumer products. Her clients include law firms, healthcare systems, financial corporations, public health entities, and digital marketing firms. Her work has been featured online at USA Today, WebMD, HowStuffWorks, Psychedelic Spotlight, Health, AARP, Everyday Health, Women, Aging in Place, and in magazines such as Sea Island Life, Salamander, and Omni. When she isn’t writing, she runs, almost daily, in hopes that she’ll beat her last best time.