Plenty of mattresses offer affordable price-points while still featuring the same top-tier materials and strong performance as their pricier counterparts. For our best cheap mattress guide, we’ve selected beds based on factors like expected durability, quality of materials, and of course, sticker price.

Looking for more information about the top mattresses sold today? Our guide to the best mattress of 2024 includes a handful of budget-friendly options. To learn more about affordable mattresses you can order online, check out our picks for the best mattress in a box.

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Best Overall

Bear Original

7.5 /10

Test Lab Score

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35% off + 2 free pillows at Bear. Code: SF35

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Comfort, support, and cooling tech at a great value. Featuring gel-infused, responsive, and high-density foams, the Bear Original is an affordable option for sleepers across weight ranges and sleeping positions that have a preference for foam.

Price

$649

Mattress Type

Foam

Firmness Options

Firm (7)

Trial Period

120 nights (30-night break-in period)

Full Details

Who It’s Best For

Its balance between support and cushioning appeals to side and back sleepers across weight ranges, but it may not be quite firm enough for some stomach sleepers.

Feel

Some sleepers may need an adjustment period to get used to the firmness level, but once the bed is broken in, sleepers across positions find it to have just the right amount of support and cushioning.

What It’s Made Of

The 10-inch Bear Original is made of three types of foam: gel-infused memory foam to help keep you cool, a transitional layer of polyfoam, and a core of high-density foam that provides a sturdy and durable base.

What We Don’t Like

While it’s designed to prevent overheating for an average sleeper, you might need to purchase an Celliant (cooling) cover separately if you tend to sleep hot.

Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6.5/10

130-230 lbs

8/10

Above 230 lbs

6.5/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6.5/10

130-230 lbs

8/10

Above 230 lbs

6.5/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

5/10

130-230 lbs

6.5/10

Above 230 lbs

5/10

We performed a meta-analysis on 10000 validated customer reviews of the Bear Original. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:

  • Firmness and Comfort: Many reviewers find the Bear Original mattress to be on the firm side but still comfortable, providing a good balance of support and cushioning.
  • Pain Relief and Support: Users frequently report relief from back and neck pain. The mattress offers good support, which contributes to a more restful sleep and helps with physical recovery, especially noted by athletes and those with physically demanding lifestyles.
  • Adjustment Period: Some customers noted a need for an adjustment period where initially the mattress felt too firm, but became more comfortable after continuous use. This is typical, and we recommend using a mattress for at least two weeks before considering a return.
  • Temperature Regulation: There are some mixed reviews regarding temperature control; some users mention that the mattress does a good job at staying cool, while a few others still experience heat retention. This is most likley due to the memory foam featured in the mattress. If you’re a particularly hot sleeper, you may want to look elsewhere.
  • Ease of Setup: The mattress is easy to unbox and set up, and it quickly expands to its full size. Customers appreciate the ease of installation.
  • Customer Service: Bear’s customer service is frequently praised for being responsive and helpful, enhancing the overall buying and service experience.

Most Comfortable

Brooklyn Bedding Essential

7.8 /10

Test Lab Score

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Built on the back of their luxury line of beds, the Essential is a no-frills, medium feel hybrid that delivers ample support, comfort, and pressure relief for all sleep positions at a fraction of the price of other hybrids.

Brand Photo of Brooklyn Bedding Essential

Price

$699

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6)

Trial Period

120 nights (30-night requirement)

Full Details

Who It’s Best For

All sleeping positions have touted benefits from this mattress, but side sleepers in particular mention improvements in sleep quality and pain relief, and back and stomach sleepers praise its balance of firmness and cushioning.

Feel

Just right: the Essential is not too soft nor too hard, making it ideal for a wide variety of sleepers across weight ranges. It offers good cradling to relieve pressure and to isolate motion, but also provides solid support.

What It’s Made Of

The Essential mattress features a quilted cotton-polyester cover, a high-density polyfoam layer, responsive pocketed coils for support, and a polyfoam base for stability and durability.

What We Don’t Like

Its medium firm feel might not appeal to those who prefer softer or firmer surfaces, and compared to other hybrids, it underperforms when it comes to heat retention.

Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

5.5/10

130-230 lbs

7.5/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

5.5/10

130-230 lbs

7.5/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

5/10

130-230 lbs

7/10

Above 230 lbs

7/10

We performed a meta-analysis on 549 validated customer reviews of the Brooklyn Bedding Essential. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:

  • Pricing and Value: Many reviewers have highlighted that the mattress is affordable and offers great value for the price, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious shoppers.
  • Heat Regulation: Several users noted that the mattress does not retain heat, which contributes to a cooler and more comfortable sleep, especially for those who tend to sleep hot.
  • Edge Support: The mattress is reported to have good edge support, which is beneficial for those who use the edge of the bed frequently or sleep close to the sides.
  • Odor and Off-Gassing: Some reviews mention that the mattress has minimal off-gassing odor upon unpacking, which is a common concern with new mattresses. The smell will dissipate in a few days.
  • Hybrid Option: The availability of hybrid models is appreciated, particularly for those needing more support, such as individuals with larger frames.
  • Customer Service: Positive remarks about customer service suggest that the company handles queries and issues effectively.

Best for Side Sleepers

Nectar Mattress

8.0 /10

Test Lab Score

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Up to 40% off mattresses at Nectar

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With a starting price of $649 (queen), the Nectar Mattress is a great value for side sleepers that combines pressure relief with firmness, comfort, and support and actually performs as well as many pricier all-foam beds.

Price

$649

Mattress Type

Foam

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6)

Trial Period

365 nights

Full Details

Who It’s Best For

The Nectar is a good choice among side sleepers across weight categories, but back sleepers under 230 pounds will find it comfortable too. People who are easily disturbed by partners will also appreciate the Nectar’s ability to isolate motion on the other side of the bed.

Feel

At a 7 on the firmness scale, it’s a bit firmer than many all-foam mattresses, but it still retains all of the cushy closeness of foam.

What It’s Made Of

The Nectar is an all-foam mattress with a top layer of gel-infused memory foam. The bottom two layers are made with polyfoam that is thicker and denser to create more stability.

What We Don’t Like

Memory foam can retain heat, which is a turnoff for hot sleepers. The hug of memory foam can also be too soft for sleepers over 230 pounds.

Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7.5/10

130-230 lbs

9/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7/10

130-230 lbs

8.5/10

Above 230 lbs

7/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

5.5/10

130-230 lbs

7/10

Above 230 lbs

5.5/10

We performed a meta-analysis on 10000 validated customer reviews of the Nectar Mattress. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:

  • Pain Relief: Many users have reported significant relief from back, neck, and joint pain. The mattress seems particularly beneficial for those with chronic pain, contributing to better overall sleep quality.
  • Free Accessories: Nectar often includes free pillows, mattress protectors, and sheets with the mattress, adding value and convenience for new customers.
  • Suitable for All Weights: The mattress supports a wide range of body weights and sizes without losing comfort or stability, making it versatile for different users.
  • Temperature Regulation: Several reviews indicate that the mattress does a good job of staying cool throughout the night, which is a significant benefit for those who tend to sleep hot.
  • Customer Service: Positive remarks about Nectar’s customer service are common, with many customers feeling supported during the purchasing and setup process.
  • Durability Concerns: While many users find the mattress supportive and comfortable, there are occasional mentions of durability concerns, such as sagging or indentations developing over time, particularly from heavier users.

Best for Couples

Layla Essential Mattress

7.4 /10

Test Lab Score

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$110 off + 2 free pillows at Layla. Use code: Sleepy10

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A solid entry into the all-foam category, the Layla Essential is an affordable and durable option that provides some cooling relief thanks to its open cell memory foam top layer. It’s a comfortable and supportive mattress that’s well suited for couples.

Layla Essential

Price

$599

Mattress Type

Foam

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6)

Trial Period

120 nights

Full Details

Who It’s Best For

The Layla Essential balances comfort and support to help alleivate pressure for side sleepers, but it also checks boxes for couples, hot sleepers, anyone on a budget who likes the feeling of an all-foam bed.

Feel

Owners describe the Essential as not too firm and not too soft, but highlight, in a positive way, how it’s more on the firmer side.

What It’s Made Of

The Layla Essential is a low-profile model, measuring 9 inches tall, that consists of a an open-cell memory foam comfort layer for added airflow and a high-density foam base.

What We Don’t Like

This model is not the easiest to move around in, and its low profile might make it harder for people with mobility issues to get in and out of it.

Scoring Breakdown

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

5.5/10

130-230 lbs

7.5/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

5.5/10

130-230 lbs

7.5/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

5/10

130-230 lbs

7/10

Above 230 lbs

7/10

Best for Combo Sleepers

Silk & Snow Hybrid

8.0 /10

Test Lab Score

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$150 off at Silk & Snow

Thanks to its combination of high-density foam and pocketed coils with zoned support, the Silk & Snow Hybrid is one of the best hybrids available at its price point and excels at accommodating sleepers across weight groups and position preferences.

Price

$700

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6)

Trial Period

365 nights (30-day requirement)

Full Details

Who It’s Best For

Side sleepers will enjoy the balance of cushioning and support of this mattress, as they need pressure relief in the shoulders and support in other areas of the body against sinkage.

Feel

Thanks to the presence of both foam and coils, the Silk & Snow Hybrid has a balanced feel and comes in medium firm and plush firmness options.

What It’s Made Of

The mattress has a quilted polyfoam layer below its antimicrobial cover, followed by a thicker layer of memory foam. At the base is a pocketed coil system and reinforced pertimeter, zoned to provide extra support to heavier parts of your body for healthy sleep posture.

What We Don’t Like

This model might lack enough support for back and stomach sleepers weighing more than 230 pounds. It’s also on the heavier side and may be difficult to move.

Scoring Breakdown

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7/10

130-230 lbs

8.5/10

Above 230 lbs

7/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6.5/10

130-230 lbs

8/10

Above 230 lbs

6.5/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

5/10

130-230 lbs

6.5/10

Above 230 lbs

5/10

Best Hybrid

Emma Hybrid Comfort

7.7 /10

Test Lab Score

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Up to 55% off with code: “SF5” at Emma

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Sleepers who enjoy the balance of support of comfort of a hybrid will love the Emma Hybrid Comfort. Its foam comfort layers help distribute pressure and movement across the surface while its coil core offers solid support and airflow.

Price

$659

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6)

Trial Period

365 nights (4-week try-out request)

Full Details

Who It’s Best For

Back and stomach sleepers across weight ranges will benefit from the Emma Hybrid Comfort’s firmness and support, while side sleepers might find it too firm for their liking.

Feel

With a firmness rating of 7 and a combination of memory foam and springs, this mattress alleviates stress on the back and hips.

What It’s Made Of

The comfort system has three layers: open-cell polyfoam, memory foam and high-resiliency transitional foam for additional cushioning. The support core contains pocketed coils and a dense base foam.

What We Don’t Like

The Emma Hybrid Comfort has limited edge support and doesn’t isolate motion as well as some of its counterparts in the value category.

Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

5.5/10

130-230 lbs

7.5/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

5.5/10

130-230 lbs

7.5/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

5/10

130-230 lbs

7/10

Above 230 lbs

7/10

We performed a meta-analysis on 33 validated customer reviews of the Emma Hybrid Comfort. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:

  • Comfort and Firmness: Many reviewers mention the comfort level of the Emma Hybrid Comfort mattress, highlighting its supportive yet soft feel. Some describe it as being the perfect balance of firmness and plushness.
  • Value for Money: Several reviews discuss the good value the mattress offers, especially with discounts and promotions. They appreciate the quality of the mattress relative to its price.
  • Delivery and Packaging: There are mixed comments regarding delivery and packaging. While some customers are satisfied with the fast and easy delivery, others express concerns about inadequate packaging that doesn’t protect the mattress well during shipping.
  • Customer Service: Experiences with customer service seem to vary. Some reviewers praise the responsive and helpful customer service, while others face issues like unresponsive phone lines or difficulties in communication.
  • Sleep Quality: Many users report improved sleep quality, mentioning aspects like better support for back and neck, reduced pain, and a cooler sleeping experience. Some specifically note the mattress’s ability to maintain its shape and firmness over time.
  • Initial Impressiveness: Several reviewers are impressed with how the mattress expands quickly and has minimal odor upon unboxing. The ease of setup and initial comfort are frequently highlighted.
  • Durability Concerns: A few reviews raise concerns about the durability of the mattress, noting issues like sagging or not maintaining firmness as expected, especially considering the weight and sleep habits of the user.

Best for Guest Rooms

Dreamfoam Hybrid

7.5 /10

Test Lab Score

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Get an additional 5% off website discount with code SLEEPFOUNDATION30

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If your guest room needs a new mattress, the Dreamform Hybrid is a solid choice. It’s affordable, built to last, and performs well across multiple weight ranges and sleep positions.

Price

$749

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6)

Trial Period

120 nights (30-night requirement)

Full Details

Who It’s Best For

The Dreamfoam Hybrid offers a supportive and comfortable sleep experience for couples, people who move around a lot during the night, budget-conscious shoppers, and hot sleepers.

Feel

Responsive yet plush, the Dreamform Hybrid is a versatile bed that’s supportive enough to relieve pressure for side sleepers and performs quite well in terms of temperature regulation.

What It’s Made Of

The mattress has a quilted cooling cover that’s incredibly soft, followed by a thick layer of gel-infused memory foam, a layer of pocketed coils to help with airflow, and a high-density base foam that makes it durable.

What We Don’t Like

The Dreamfoam Hybrid isn’t our top pick for motion isolation. Couples sleeping together may notice disturbances when their partner moves. It also has an initial odor upon unboxing.

Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6.5/10

130-230 lbs

8/10

Above 230 lbs

6.5/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6/10

130-230 lbs

7.5/10

Above 230 lbs

6/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

4.5/10

130-230 lbs

6/10

Above 230 lbs

4.5/10

We performed a meta-analysis on 2908 validated customer reviews of the Dreamfoam Hybrid. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:

  • Comfort and Support: Many users have praised the mattress for its exceptional comfort and support, noting that it provides a good balance between softness and firmness, which is beneficial for both side and back sleepers.
  • Eco-Friendly Materials: The mattress is frequently highlighted for its use of organic and sustainable materials, including organic latex, cotton, and wool, making it a popular choice for environmentally conscious consumers.
  • Durability: Several reviews mention the mattress’s durability, indicating that it maintains its shape and comfort over time without sagging or forming indentations.
  • Temperature Regulation: The mattress is often noted for its ability to regulate temperature effectively, providing a cool sleeping environment which is appreciated by sleepers who tend to sleep hot.
  • Motion Isolation: Couples have reported satisfaction with the mattress’s ability to isolate motion, allowing one partner to move without disturbing the other, contributing to a restful night’s sleep.
  • Odor-Free: Users appreciate that the mattress does not emit any off-gassing smells, which is a common issue with many new mattresses, making it suitable for those with sensitivities or preferences for odor-free products.

Best Mattress for Teens

Siena Memory Foam Mattress

7.3 /10

Test Lab Score

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Its affordable pricing and all-foam design make the Siena the ideal choice for teens that may be hard on their bed. Its balance of plushness and support helps provide restful sleep for growing minds and bodies.

Price

$399

Mattress Type

Foam

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6)

Trial Period

180 Nights

Full Details

Who It’s Best For

This mattress is most comfortable for side sleepers weighing 130 to 230 pounds and back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds. Heavier teens may want a more supportive bed.

Feel

It’s soft, comfortable, and provides a good balance of support and plushness to help your teen sleep soundly through the night.

What It’s Made Of

The Siena foam mattress features a soft cover on top of a 2-inch layer of gel-infused memory foam. Beneath that is 4 inches of cushioning foam and 4 inches of foundational, high-density support form.

What We Don’t Like

Some owners have found the initial off-gassing odors to be strong, and some have found the mattress to sleep hotter than other like mattresses.

Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6.5/10

130-230 lbs

8/10

Above 230 lbs

6.5/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6/10

130-230 lbs

7.5/10

Above 230 lbs

6/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

4.5/10

130-230 lbs

6/10

Above 230 lbs

4.5/10

We performed a meta-analysis on 2004 validated customer reviews of the Siena Memory Foam Mattress. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:

  • Quality Sleep Improvement: Many users report significant improvements in sleep quality, noting deeper sleep and reduced wakefulness throughout the night.
  • Price Value: Many users are impressed with the affordability of the mattress, noting that it offers great value for the price compared to other brands.
  • Ease of Setup: Customers appreciate the ease with which the mattress can be set up, highlighting its convenience and user-friendly packaging.
  • Temperature Regulation: Several reviews point out that the mattress does a good job of regulating temperature, providing a cool sleeping environment.
  • Customer Service: Positive comments about customer service suggest that the company is responsive and helpful in addressing any issues that arise.
  • Odor upon Unpacking: A minor drawback mentioned is the initial off-gassing smell common with new memory foam mattresses, but this will dissipate after a couple of days.

July 4th Mattress Sales Are Here!

July 4th is a great time to buy a new mattress, with many leading brands offering their biggest deals of the year. Check out our guide to July 4th Mattress Sales for more information about all of the top discounts.

Best Overall

Bear Original

7.5 /10

Test Lab Score

35% off + 2 free pillows at Bear. Code: SF35

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An affordable all-foam mattress with cooling tech and comfortable support that excels across performance categories.

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Most Comfortable

Brooklyn Bedding Essential

7.8 /10

Test Lab Score

Save 25% sitewide at Brooklyn Bedding

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A superior-comfort, budget-friendly hybrid that performs at the same level as many of its pricier counterparts.

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Best for Side Sleepers

Nectar Mattress

8.0 /10

Test Lab Score

Up to 40% off mattresses at Nectar

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An affordably priced memory foam mattress that excels at pressure relief for side sleepers.

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Best for Couples

Layla Essential Mattress

7.4 /10

Test Lab Score

$110 off + 2 free pillows at Layla. Use code: Sleepy10

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The base model all-foam Layla is wallet-friendly, breathable, and built to last.

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Best for Combo Sleepers

Silk & Snow Hybrid

8.0 /10

Test Lab Score

$150 off at Silk & Snow

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A high-quality hybrid that’s friendly on the wallet and great for sleepers who move around a lot.

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Best Hybrid

Emma Hybrid Comfort

7.7 /10

Test Lab Score

Up to 55% off with code: “SF5” at Emma

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A balanced, economical hybrid with deep cushioning and strong underlying support.

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Best for Guest Rooms

Dreamfoam Hybrid

7.5 /10

Test Lab Score

Get an additional 5% off website discount with code SLEEPFOUNDATION30

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A breathable, durable, and supportive hybrid at a reasonable price point that suits a wide variety of sleeping preferences.

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Best for Teens

Siena Memory Foam Mattress

7.3 /10

Test Lab Score

50% off the Siena Memory Foam Mattress

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An all-foam model with five layers of foam to provide excellent durability and comfort at a good value for your teen.

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Watch Video: We Tested the Best Cheap Mattresses of 2024 – Here Are Our Favorites

Watch our video below to learn more about our lab’s top picks for cheap mattress.

Expert Tested. Sleeper Approved.

Over the past eight years, our Seattle-based Test Lab has performed hands-on tests on more than 4,000 sleep products — and nearly 2,000 of them are mattresses. 

As product experts, we stay up to date on the latest news in sleep science and product trends. We use this knowledge to fuel our data-backed recommendations. Many of our testers have worked directly with mattress manufacturers and visited actual mattress factories. On occasion, a sleep health expert might stop by to tweak a firmness rating.

When we test a mattress, we collect data across six major performance categories and combine these results with real-world feedback. We use tools and tech to monitor features like heat retention, motion isolation, and pressure mapping. In order to ensure our findings are inclusive of all sleepers, our team consists of people with varying body types and sleep positions.

Mattresses aren’t one-size-fits-all. The perfect bed for you is going to depend on general points like your body weight and sleeping position, as well as unique points like if you have back pain, if you sleep hot at night, or if you just like the feel of latex over memory foam. Our goal at the Test Lab is to help take the guesswork out of your mattress-buying process.

So How Did We Pick the Best Cheap Mattress?

To choose our picks for the best cheap mattresses, we focused on models that have been top performers during our tests and also carry approachable price-points. These mattresses aren’t the cheapest on the market, but we’ve found they reward owners with excellent long-term value without breaking the bank. Performance ratings for testing categories like pressure relief, motion isolation, and ease of movement played a role in our selections, as did feedback from members of our team across different sleep positions and body types. However, sticker price was the main deciding factor for this list.

What to Look for in a Cheap Mattress

A new mattress doesn’t need to compromise quality at the expense of affordability. In this guide, we’ll cover mattresses that are both high-quality and wallet-friendly.

Important Mattress Considerations

First and foremost, your mattress should reflect your preferences. Do you sleep on your side, back, or stomach? Do you like a softer bed, or one that’s more firm? Other important qualities include temperature control, pressure relief, edge support, and motion isolation. Many low-priced mattresses check all these boxes.

How Much Should You Spend on a Mattress?

Expect to pay at least $500 for a high-quality model, knowing that the average queen size mattress costs between $1,000 and $2,000. Factors that affect cost include size, materials, brand, and where you purchase the bed (online or in a retail store).

Mattress Type and Quality

Foam mattresses and innersprings tend to carry the lowest price-points. These usually cost between $700 to $1,200 for a queen. Hybrids and latex mattresses are more expensive, with an average queen price of $1,500 to $2,200. Airbeds are the most expensive mattress type — expect to pay at least $2,500 for an airbed in any size.

Firmness and Support

Firmness is one of the most important considerations when choosing a new mattress. Our testing team rates firmness on a 10-point scale with 1 as the softest and 10 as the firmest. Most mattresses fall between soft (3) and firm (7-8). 

Softer mattresses contour closely and hug the body, making them a good fit for side sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds. Side sleepers can benefit from extra cushioning around their shoulders and hips, two areas back and stomach sleepers need more support to reduce sinkage along the midsection.

Additional Features

Depending on your preferences, these features and accessories may be helpful additions to your sleep space:

  • A dual-firmness mattress that has a different feel on each side
  • A zoned mattress with firmer materials beneath your midsection to minimize sinkage
  • Mattresses with cooling covers that disperse body heat on contact
  • An adjustable bed that allows you to elevate different parts of your body while you sleep

Mattress Shopping Tips for Budget-Conscious Shoppers

Here are some tips for getting the most bang for your buck on your new mattress.

Be on the Hunt for Sales, Discounts, and Bundle Deals

Many brands offer sales around holidays likePresidents’ Day, Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, and Veterans Day. You may also find a good deal on Black Friday and Cyber Monday. 

You can also save money by taking advantage of bundles. These packaged deals allow you to buy pillows, sheets, mattress pads, beds, and other sleep accessories with your mattress at a discounted rate.

Do Your Research

Before choosing a mattress, we recommend comparison shopping to help you get an idea of how much different brands charge for different types and sizes of mattresses. We also suggest visiting a mattress store and checking the price tags to see if you’ll save more by buying online.

Take Advantage of Sleep Trials and Warranties

Online (direct to consumer) brands offer sleep trials that let you test your new mattress at home before deciding whether you want to keep it. Most trials run between 90 and 365 nights, and many include 30-night requirements to break in the mattress. Free return shipping is often included as well.

Standard mattress warranties cover manufacturing defects for up to 10 years. If your mattress is defective, the manufacturer repairs or replaces it. There may be some additional fees, so be sure to read your warranty’s fine print.

Dive Deeper – In-Depth Mattress Guides

Our team evaluates mattresses using a wide range of criteria to determine the best options for different types of sleepers. For more information, visit the mattress guides below.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most affordable mattress type?

Foam and innerspring mattresses are the most affordable mattress type on average. Most queen size models fall between $700 and $1,200. You’ll pay a bit more for hybrids, latex mattresses, and airbeds. Comparison shopping between different brands can help you find the most reasonably priced models for your needs.

How much should you spend on a mattress?

We recommend a baseline budget of $500 for a new mattress. You should budget for more if you also need to buy things like sheets or a bed frame. Although the average mattress costs between $1,000 and $2,000, buying a well-made model with durable materials can be a high-value investment in the long run.

Are expensive mattresses better?

Expensive mattresses aren’t necessarily better than affordable ones. Some high-end models are constructed with materials like high-density memory foam, latex, and steel coils that help ensure a long lifespan and a good return on your investment. However, some inexpensive mattresses are comparable in terms of quality and performance.

How long does a mattress last?

The average mattress should be replaced after seven years of continuous use. Latex mattresses, hybrids, and foam models with high-density layers often last longer. Rotating your mattress head to foot every three to six months can prevent deep impressions from forming on your sleep surface.

When should you replace your mattress?

You should replace your mattress when you notice signs of moderate wear and tear. These include indentations in the surface measuring 1 inch or deeper, “trenching” down the middle, creaky springs, and rips or tears in the cover fabric. Check your warranty to see if these issues are covered as defects — you may be entitled to free repairs or a replacement mattress.

Still have questions?

Our product experts have extensive experience testing just about every sleep product on the market.

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