As a deputy sleep and wellness editor, professional mattress tester and certified sleep science coach, I’ve tested over 200 beds (and counting), spanning popular favorites to the more niche corners of the industry.Over the past year and a half alone, I’ve analyzed 116 different mattresses with the help of more than 30 panelists, collecting detailed insights across varying body weights, genders and sleep positions.The Helix Midnight Luxe has remained a steady favorite throughout our testing rounds, but we’ve also included 13 other top-tier mattresses to cater to different needs, like the Saatva Classic Mattress for back pain relief and the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling for hot sleepers.
How We Selected The Best Mattresses Of 2026
To choose our winners, we combine rigorous lab testing with long-term, real-world experience.Our multistage process, led by myself and Forbes Vetted sleep editor McKenzie Dillon, is outlined below.
– Annual testing sessions: Our best mattress winners were named following nine days of intensive testing, where a diverse panel of 30 testers evaluated 116 different mattresses.
– Evaluation of key criteria: During our panel-testing sessions, each mattress was systematically assessed and scored on key performance factors, including pressure relief, support, motion isolation, edge support, spinal alignment, ease of movement and cooling.
– Continuous, long-term testing: Our evaluation doesn’t stop after formal testing.
We send top contenders and previous winners home with our testers to assess their comfort, support and durability over an extended period, ensuring our recommendations hold up to real-world use.
Why We Named It Best Mattress Overall
The Helix Midnight Luxe tested well across several key categories like pressure relief, responsiveness and edge support.
Thanks to its accommodating medium to medium-firm feel, testers of various weights scored it highly for side and back sleeping, with one calling it “the perfect mix of support and comfort.” Those weighing less than 150 pounds also found it comfortable for stomach sleeping, as their hips didn’t sink as far into the bed as those who weigh more.And since this recent round of testers gave it a 9 out of 10 for ease of movement, it’s a great match for combo sleepers who change positions frequently at night or those with mobility issues.
Edge Support And Motion Isolation For Couples
Along with its accommodating and versatile feel, the Midnight Luxe impressed us with performance factors that benefit couples.It scored an 8.5 out of 10 for edge support after our testers sat, lay and moved around on the sides of the bed while tracking the level of sinkage.
One tester says, “The Midnight Luxe’s side is very stable and supportive with not too much give to the mattress below you.When moving positions, you don’t feel the mattress move with you.” We also rated it highly for motion isolation after placing a glass of water on the mattress and performing various movements across from it.
“I moved around on the surface vigorously and jumped on the bed, and the glass and water barely moved,” says one tester.
Ample Support And Cooling Features
At 13.5 inches thick, the Helix Midnight Luxe is a couple of inches taller than the average bed in a box, plus it comes with a strong pocketed coil layer underneath the pillow top and foam comfort layers.We found that this base layer provides great support under the hips and around the perimeter of the mattress, which is important for maintaining spinal alignment.
It already features several cooling materials like gel infusions and pocketed coils to help dissipate body heat, but you can upgrade to a cooling cover for an additional fee if you sleep extra hot (something we found to be worth it).
On top of all that support, the plush pillow top is a major differentiator between the Luxe and the flagship Midnight model.One tester says, “The cushy top of this mattress looks exactly how it feels.The quilting is lifted yet tight, indicating its balance of cushion with underlying firmness and support.” Another tester, who’s been sleeping on this mattress for over a year at home, says it continues to be just as comfortable, supportive and cooling as it was during the first month of testing.
How It Compares To Similar Beds
Other mattresses that came close to earning the best overall title were the Saatva Classic Mattress and The WinkBed.The Saatva Classic Mattress is extremely supportive and well-built, plus it comes in three different firmnesses and two heights.
We found it doesn’t offer as much motion isolation as the Midnight Luxe, but we still recommend it for those with back pain and a wide array of sleepers in our Saatva Classic Mattress review.The WinkBed is also a high-quality option that’s accommodating for a wide range of sleepers and comes in four firmnesses, but our testers found the Midnight Luxe did a better job at isolating motion and regulating temperature.Since it shined with overall comfort in testing, we decided to name it the best for that category instead.
Related: You can read a deeper analysis in our Helix Midnight Luxe review.
The 2026 Forbes Vetted Best Product Awards are here: Explore our 150 top-recommended items across categories after extensive research and testing.
Why We Named It Best Memory Foam Mattress
The Nectar Premier is our favorite memory foam mattress because it provides stellar pressure relief.It hugs your shoulders and hips for deep contouring, and it’s very responsive to movement, making it easier to change positions.“The foam takes a few moments to bounce back to normal, so it does make you work a little harder to switch, but it’s not enough to disturb you at night,” says one of our testers.
Rated 9 Out Of 10 For Back And Side Sleeping
Its dense foam layers also balance pressure relief with support to promote a healthy spine alignment—good news for back and side sleepers.In fact, the majority of our testers rated it a 9 out of 10 for both of these sleeping positions.One says, “It is clearly memory foam, but it does not sink the way that many do with this level of foam.I would recommend it for a combo side- and back-sleeping couple.” Our testing also found it provides adequate support for stomach sleepers who weigh less than 150 pounds.
A Contouring Feel With Ample Motion Isolation
Nectar says that the memory foam model is medium-firm, but we found that it leans more medium-soft.
Several of our testers described the feel as “doughy” and “cushy.” If you prefer a more lifted feel, we recommend choosing the hybrid version of the Premier, which provides a bit more support.
Along with offering stellar pressure relief, the thick foams do a great job at isolating motion.After doing the motion isolation test mentioned earlier, one tester says, “This is one of the bed’s strongest points.The glass hardly moves when I bounce around, jump onto the bed or switch positions.”
How It Compares To Similar Beds
The Nectar Premier offers a sink-in consistency, meaning you feel a bit more “in” the mattress than “on” it, compared to hybrid mattresses like the Helix Midnight Luxe—which may be a good thing for sleepers who prefer a traditional memory foam feel.
Why We Named It Best Value Mattress
Our testers were huge fans of DreamCloud’s Classic Hybrid Mattress.We found it to have a medium-firm feel that best suits back and stomach sleepers (and some part-time side sleepers).“I love this bed,” says one tester.“It feels like a perfect balance of being firm yet cushioned, but without the extra padding of a pillow top.”
Soft And Cushioning Without Lacking Support
During our testing process, our team described it as being dense and supportive while also offering a touch of softness and cushioning.
It averaged an 8.5 out of 10 for pressure relief overall, with testers finding it most comfortable for back and stomach sleeping.There were mixed opinions on side sleeping, with most testers not finding it plush enough for this position (we recommend most strict side sleepers choose a softer option like the Tuft & Needle Mint Hybrid Mattress in order to maintain spinal alignment and avoid pressure buildup).
Ideal For Combination Sleepers And Couples
The DreamCloud Classic’s combination of responsive pocketed coils and cushy memory foam gives it a lifted feel, which made it really easy to move around on during testing and earned it a 9 out of 10 for ease of movement.This makes it a good option for combination sleepers or anyone with mobility issues.Our testers were also impressed with its edge support, ultimately rating it an 8 out of 10 in this category.I could personally feel the perimeter strength working to hold me up while sitting on the side of it and think this new model has stronger edge support than the previous version.
Results were mixed for motion isolation, but the majority of testers rated it at least a 7 out of 10 in this category after performing the water glass test.
How It Compares To Similar Beds
If top-notch motion isolation is important to you, we recommend the Nectar Premier since its all-foam design absorbs movement more naturally.
If you want a plusher feel that is more pressure relieving for side sleeping, consider the DreamCloud Premier Hybrid Mattress or the DreamCloud Luxe Mattress instead.
Related: Read more in our full DreamCloud Classic Hybrid Mattress review.
Why We Named It Best Hybrid Mattress
The Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid Mattress comes in three different firmnesses (plush, medium-firm, firm) to cater to a variety of sleepers, and it features high-quality materials that you don’t see in many online mattresses.We’ve tested all three firmness options; though they range in overall firmness, all embody a cushy yet supportive feel, and none provides so much sinkage that you feel like you’re getting pulled too deep into the bed.
Plush And Airy, But Sturdy
We recently retested the medium-firm model with our team.Our testers gave it an 8 out of 10 or higher for comfort in all three sleeping positions and for overall pressure relief.One tester describes it as “plush and airy but on the sturdier side of the scale,” saying it offers more of a medium feel, thanks to its supportive coil foundation beneath the cushiony foam comfort layers.
Another tester adds, “It’s pretty easy to move around on this one.Despite it having a bouncy feel, there wasn’t sinkage, so I didn’t feel resistance when changing positions.”
Offers Cooling And Motion Isolation
The Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid Mattress also tested well for cooling and motion isolation during both short-term and long-term testing, so it truly boasts the best qualities of memory foam and innerspring mattresses.
While sleeping on it during the middle of summer, our tester says it helped regulate body temperature and didn’t retain much heat.As for edge support, though most testers said it felt comfortable lying on the side of the bed, everyone noted its edge support wasn’t as strong as the others on this list while sitting and moving on the side.
How It Compares To Similar Beds
It’s worth noting that the medium-firm model has a slightly plusher feel than the Helix Midnight Luxe.We found it comfortable for all sleeping positions for lightweight and average-weight sleepers, but the firm model might be better for heavier sleepers or anyone who prefers a firmer feel.
Related: For more details, read our full Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid Mattress review.
Why We Named It Best Mattress For Back Pain
The Saatva Classic Mattress features a supportive coil-on-coil design with zoned quilting for lumbar support, a spinal wire in the middle of the mattress to promote spinal alignment and a layer of memory foam in the center third of the bed for extra contouring.
The support also carries from side to side, as this was the only mattress that our testers unanimously gave a perfect 10 for edge support.
Support And Pressure Relief For All Sleeping Positions
We’ve tested all three firmnesses of the Saatva and recently tested the luxury firm and firm models with our team (since they’re better choices for most folks with back pain).Our testers scored both models highly for all sleeping positions and pressure relief, but the luxury firm model received the highest scores with a 9 for side and back sleeping, an 8.5 for stomach sleeping and an 8.5 for pressure relief.One tester calls out how it’s great for back sleepers with back pain especially, as it’s “comfortable with no sinking and does not add additional strain on the body.”
Despite there not being a lot of sinkage on this mattress, testers say the plush pillow top adequately alleviates pressure while side sleeping.
One describes the feel as “not like melting on a cloud, but soft,” while another says, “The top layer cradles my shoulders and hips really nicely.” Testers found it very easy to change positions on, as well.Just keep in mind that since its coils provide good bounce and ease of movement, that does translate to weaker motion isolation.
Delivered By Hand, Not In A Box
It’s also worth noting the Saatva Classic Mattress comes with free white-glove delivery, which means the mattress is never compressed in a box.Instead, movers deliver it, set it up and remove your old mattress for you, if needed.
How It Compares To Similar Beds
The main runner-up for the best mattress for back pain was the Saatva Rx Mattress.It’s designed specifically with chronic pain in mind, including back and joint conditions like sciatica, arthritis, herniated disc and scoliosis.One of our testers with scoliosis says the Saatva Rx Mattress alleviated her back pain within a week of sleeping on it, soon leading to consistent pain-free nights.However, we felt the Saatva Classic Mattress can accommodate more sleepers due to its three firmness and two height options, along with it being designed for more general pains.
Related: Read a deeper analysis in our Saatva Classic Mattress review.
Why We Named It Best Cooling Mattress
The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling is our top choice for hot sleepers because we found it regulates temperature extremely well and prevents any heat buildup.The cover has a true cool-to-the-touch sensation that many brands advertise but don’t deliver on—but keep in mind it doesn’t stay cool to the touch all night.However, it does regulate temperature all night.
It also tested well for support (both along the sides of the mattress and in the center) and pressure relief.
Comes In Three Firmnesses For Every Type Of Sleeper
The three firmness levels (soft, medium, firm) offer different amounts of pressure relief—and since you can add a 2-inch “Cloud” pillow top (for around $200 more, for a queen), it can cater to most sleep styles and preferences.We’ve tested all firmness levels of the Aurora Luxe Cooling and recently tested the firm model with the pillow top with our team (which the brand says is a very popular option right now).It scored an 8.5 for pressure relief, with one tester saying, “My first impression is that it’s softer than I thought it would be as a firm bed, which could be chalked up to the soft and airy Cloud pillow top.”
We found the medium firmness to be supportive and comfortable for all sleep positions.We think back and combo sleepers should do best on the medium model, stomach sleepers on the firm model and lightweight and/or dedicated side sleepers on the soft model.
(Just keep in mind the soft model didn’t test as well for edge support.)
Offers Support, Springiness And Motion Isolation
The Aurora Luxe Cooling isolated movement well and scored an 8 out of 10, which is important for anyone who doesn’t want to feel their partner (or pet) moving around in the night.It’s supportive for both solo and co-sleepers, as well, earning an 8 out of 10 for edge support after our testers felt comfortable sitting and sleeping on the side.Our testers also found it was “very easy to move between positions” on the Aurora Luxe Cooling, adding it has a “slight bounce without feeling too springy.”
How It Compares To Similar Beds
Although we didn’t find them to be more cooling than the Aurora Luxe Cooling, the Helix Midnight Luxe (with the cooling upgrade), the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid Mattress and the Bear Elite Hybrid are three others worth noting on this list with impressive cooling materials and abilities.
Related: See more in our Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling mattress review.
Why We Named It Best Firm Mattress
Not only is the Plank Firm one of the firmest beds we’ve ever tested, you can also choose between a firm and extra-firm feel thanks to its flippable design.While there is zero to very little sinkage on either side of this mattress, it’s not to the point where you feel as if you’re sleeping on the floor.Rather, it keeps you entirely lifted on the bed with slight cushioning for comfort.
Support And Lift For Back And Stomach Sleeping
Our testers rated it highly for back and stomach sleeping, as its very minimal sinkage helps keep the spine straight in these positions.“This bed feels firm and supportive,” says one tester.
“As someone who deals with regular back pain, I could see this being really nice for back or stomach sleepers who need some extra lift in order to feel comfortable at night.” Although it’s too firm for most side sleepers, a tester weighing more than 250 pounds found it comfortable in this position since he experienced more pressure relief.
Excellent Edge Support, But Not The Coolest Mattress
The Plank Firm scored a 9 out of 10 for edge support, which is quite impressive for an all-foam mattress.Our tester who weighs over 250 pounds says, “The edge support is fantastic on this bed,” adding that he feels very “grounded” and “comfortable” sitting on the side.Though he found it more difficult to move around on the mattress, our testers in the lightweight and average-weight categories rated it a 9 or 10 out of 10 for ease of movement since they felt less sinkage.Its all-foam design isn’t the best for cooling (nor the worst), but you can pay for an additional cooling cover if you tend to run hot at night.
How It Compares To Similar Beds
Although there are other mattresses on this list offered in firm models, none compare to the Plank Firm’s more extreme level.If you’re transitioning from a soft or medium mattress and want a firmer feel that still offers solid contouring and plushness, the firm models of the Aurora Luxe Cooling or the Bear Elite Hybrid may be better picks.And if you weigh more than 250 pounds, check out the Plank Firm Luxe, which has a more supportive pocketed coil base layer.
Why We Named It Best Mattress For Side Sleepers
The Nolah Evolution has a hybrid design and thick foam comfort layers that work especially well for this position, plus it comes in three different firmness levels (plush, luxury firm and firm) to suit a variety of body types.
Responsive Coils And Cushy Foams Designed For Side Sleepers
“Side sleeping on this one is very comfortable, and I feel supported and cradled by the material,” says one of our testers.
The Evolution has both zoned coils and zoned foams in its construction, meaning they vary in density in different areas to offer more pressure relief for your shoulders and extra support for your hips.As a devotee of soft mattresses (we rounded up our favorite soft beds here), I slept on the plush version of the Evolution for several months and found it to be a dreamy 10 out of 10 for side sleeping.
Choose The Best Firmness For You
Our team of testers evaluated the luxury firm model and all scored it an 8 or 9 out of 10 for this position.Ultimately, we’d recommend the plush model for side sleepers under 150 pounds (and to those who love an extra-cushy feel) and the luxury-firm model to side sleepers over 150 pounds.(I tested the firm model at the brand’s manufacturing facility and was surprised by how firm it is compared to the others.
It’s still cushiony, but I found it to be a little too firm under the shoulder for side sleeping.)
A Good Choice For Side-Sleeping Couples
It also scored well for ease of movement and motion isolation, so it’s a good pick for side-sleeping couples and sleepers who switch between their back and side, too.
Just note that our testers found it has average edge support overall; if you sleep near the edge of the bed, you may want a mattress with a sturdier perimeter.
How It Compares To Similar Beds
The plush model of the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid Mattress is the most comparable to the plush model of the Evolution in terms of overall firmness and support for side sleepers.However, I found the Leesa does a slightly better job at keeping you cool, plus you don’t have to pay extra for more cooling features like you do with the Nolah.If you weigh more than 250 pounds and like a softer feel for side sleeping, consider the more supportive Nolah Evolution Comfort+.
Related: You can learn more in our full Nolah Evolution mattress review.
Why We Named It Best Luxury Mattress
Stearns & Foster is a high-end mattress brand that’s become synonymous with luxury, known for its hand-tufted, made-to-order mattresses.
The Reserve is the brand’s top-of-the-line model and comes in pillow top soft, medium or pillow top firm models.We tested the medium model (no pillow top) and found it offers plenty of contouring yet is still responsive enough to easily move around on and change sleep positions.Our testers describe it as soft and squishy up top but firm enough to still accommodate most sleepers’ needs.“The Reserve showcases elevated craftsmanship, from the deep blue velvet side panels (where the air vents are located) to the hand-stitched fleur-de-lis on the surface and the soft covers on the tufts on top,” says one of our testers.
“While the top few inches do feel soft, the mattress in general has a medium-firm feel.”
Luxury Materials And Enhanced Performance Features
The Tempur-Indulge memory foam inside (developed by Tempur-Pedic) offers a memory foam sensation up top that’s especially comfortable for back and side sleepers along with lightweight stomach sleepers (under 150 pounds).“When you press down it still slowly morphs back, but it doesn’t make you feel stuck,” explains a tester.We scored it a 9 out of 10 for ease of movement.It also tested well for edge support (9 out of 10), so it’s a solid pick for couples or anyone who sleeps near the edge of the bed.
“I only experience a tiny amount of sinkage while sitting and moving on the side of the Reserve, but I still feel very supported overall,” says one of our testers.However, it only did an average to slightly above average job at isolating motion (so take note if you share the bed with a partner).
A Thick Design That Promotes Airflow And Breathability
The Reserve features three different types of coils in its layers to offer ample support and targeted pressure relief.
These coils also help promote airflow throughout the center of the mattress in tandem with the external air vents and breathable Tencel cover.
The 16-inch profile (17 inches if you choose a pillow top model) accommodates taller individuals well, but it’s worth measuring the height of your bed frame to make sure it doesn’t pose a problem for mobility.
How It Compares To Similar Beds
The Saatva Classic Mattress is the only other mattress on our list that’s made to order and arrives with free white-glove service, meaning movers set it up for you in your room of choice and remove your old bed for you, if you’d like.The Saatva also comes in three different firmnesses and features a plush, supportive design, but you can choose an 11.5- or 14.5-inch height for all three.As for how the Saatva compares to the Reserve, it’s a close second as far as a luxury feel.However, the Reserve’s Tempur-Pedic foam layers and thicker overall design give it that extra “oomph” in terms of a high-end, supportive feel.If its height is a deterrent, the Helix Midnight Elite is an inch or two shorter and another one of our favorite luxury picks.
Related: Read more in our full Stearns & Foster Reserve Review.
Why We Named It Best Organic Mattress
The Avocado Green Mattress features more certified organic and eco-friendly materials than the vast majority of beds on the market.It comes in three models with different firmnesses (plush, medium, firm) that all feature at least two inches of premium latex, recycled steel pocketed coils, and organic cotton and wool.Some mattress brands use synthetic latex to cut costs, but Avocado’s latex is certified organic by third parties and meets high manufacturing standards.
(Organic latex foam is made from the sap of a rubber tree.)
Three Firmnesses For All Sleep Positions
Our testing found the advertised firmnesses for the different Avocado Green Mattress models to be accurate for all three, so you can pick the right one for your sleeping position.Just keep in mind that the plusher the model you choose, the more expensive it is.We tested the firm base model with our team and found it’s best for back and stomach sleeping.One tester says, “The Avocado Green keeps my hips lifted and in line with my shoulders, while the latex and thick cover provide a gentle touch.” Another adds, “The top is comfortable and soft, but the firmness and lack of sinkage is perfect for back sleepers.
If someone is seeking a high-support mattress for their back, it would be a great option.”
Buoyant And Naturally Cooling
Our testers also found it’s quite responsive and scored it an 8.5 for ease of movement.“It’s super easy to move around on this bed,” says one.
“The latex is buoyant and helps guide you from position to position.
There’s also not a lot of sinkage on this bed, so you never feel stuck in the bed and can easily roll around.” The organic materials and coils also make this mattress naturally cooling.
How It Compares To Similar Beds
Due to the latex in its construction, the Avocado Green Mattress offers a more buoyant, lifted feel than other options on this list like the Nectar Premier or Helix Midnight Luxe.However, it doesn’t do as great of a job with edge support or motion isolation.
Related: Read more in our Avocado Green Mattress review.
Why We Named It Most Comfortable Mattress
The WinkBed has an impressive Euro pillow top that comforts a wide variety of sleepers.While the Helix Midnight Luxe also comes with a plush pillow top, The WinkBed’s is infused with eucalyptus-derived Tencel, which makes it more breathable and airy.
One tester says, “The pillow top and upper foams provide a gentle cloudlike hug.There’s not a ton of sinkage, but it does offer ample cushioning while still keeping you supported and more on top of the bed.” But, of course, it isn’t just the pillow top that makes The WinkBed one of our favorites; it also has excellent edge support, ease of movement and pressure-relieving abilities.
Four Firmness Levels For Different Body Types
You can choose from four firmness levels; our team recently retested the luxury firm and plus models, and one of our testers sleeps on the softer model at home.Our testers found the luxury firm model to be a true medium-firm and gave it high marks for all sleeping positions and pressure relief (it received an overall 8.5 or 9 for each).One tester writes, “I thought this bed might be too firm for side sleeping, but it was surprisingly really comfortable.
The cushy pillow top provides enough sinkage for the shoulder and hip, while the coils below keep you supported.I didn’t feel any discomfort—though I would still prefer a softer bed for side sleeping as a personal preference.”
Supportive, Cooling And Motion Isolating
Our testers also gave it high praise for its cooling abilities, ease of movement (9 out of 10), edge support (9 out of 10) and motion isolation (8 out of 10)—making this one of the highest-rated beds we tested and a well-rounded pick for couples and combination sleepers.
How It Compares To Similar Beds
We tested the softer version of the mattress and found it to be a little firmer than advertised.It also didn’t isolate motion as well as the firmer models.
If you prefer a softer feel and share a bed with a partner or pet and don’t want to feel their movements, the Helix Midnight Luxe offers a similar pillow top experience with better motion isolation.
Related: Read our full WinkBed mattress review for more details.
Why We Named It Best Mattress For Couples
The Bear Elite Hybrid excelled in categories that matter most for people sharing a bed: cooling, edge support, motion isolation, ease of movement and a balanced feel.Our team recently retested the medium model and found it’s the best fit for couples who can’t decide on a firmness level.It scored a 9.5 out of 10 for side sleeping, a perfect 10 for back sleeping and an 8 for stomach sleeping—and these scores came from sleepers of all weight classes.They also collectively gave it a 9 out of 10 for pressure relief.
A Luxurious Feel Both Partners Should Enjoy
One tester writes, “My first impression was, ‘Wow, this is a comfortable mattress.’ It’s light, airy and cushiony all at the same time.
With that said, it doesn’t lack the proper support needed to promote alignment.
This bed feels like an ultra nice, luxurious bed.” One tester who weighs over 250 pounds adds, “Out of the given adjectives, I would choose ‘pillowy’ and ‘lifted.’ There is not much sinkage but lots of support.This bed is very soft and feels great all around.”
Edge Support And Motion Isolation For Couples
The zoned coils in the Bear Elite Hybrid help promote spinal alignment, while the reinforced coils along the edges keep the sides of the bed sturdy.Along with finding it supportive from side to side, our testers reported it’s easy to move around on and good at isolating motion—all important features for couples.
How It Compares To Similar Beds
This model offers a feel similar to the Aurora Luxe Cooling but is not quite as plush or cooling.However, if you sleep extra hot, you can add the Celliant cover for an extra fee, as the brand says it helps regulate body temperature better.If you and your partner are both side sleepers, the soft model may be more up your alley since it offers more pressure relief.If you’re both back or stomach sleepers, the firm is a good selection for a more lifted feel.
Related: Learn more in our full Bear Elite Hybrid review.
Why We Named It Best Soft Mattress
The Tuft & Needle Mint Hybrid Mattress offers a plush memory foam feel that is pressure-relieving while also supportive thanks to the coils down below.
“This is a fantastic mattress,” writes one tester.“I love how much it absorbs all the pressure points of my body.It feels like I’m floating.” Our testers found it to be most comfortable while back and side sleeping, as the thick upper foams comfortably cradle the joints without pushing your spine out of alignment.
Plush, Without Compromising Ease Of Movement
Though it has a soft, contouring feel, this bed doesn’t trap you.One tester says, “It has a memory foam feel that’s a bit doughy while still being responsive—meaning you sink in a little and get pressure relief, but you don’t sink in so far that you feel stuck.” Granted, it’s not as bouncy and responsive a bed like the Saatva Classic Mattress, but testers agree the effort it takes to move around isn’t significant—a bonus for combination sleepers who switch positions throughout the night.
Responsive And Motion Absorbing
The micro coils and pocketed coils inside the Tuft & Needle Mint Hybrid Mattress help with this responsiveness while also adding support, and unlike some other mattresses, they don’t hinder motion isolation.In fact, one of our testers weighing over 250 pounds saw “very minimal movement” in the water glass when he sat, rolled around and jumped onto the bed.He says, “Oddly enough, the least movement from the water glass was when I jumped into bed.
It seems to absorb motion/movement directly under where it’s happening.” It ultimately received a 9 out of 10 in this category, which is a great sign for anyone who doesn’t want to feel their partner’s or pet’s movements.
Decently Cooling But Lacks Edge Support
The “Mint” in its name refers to its cooling abilities, provided by a breathable cover, ventilated foams, gel and graphite infusions and airflow-promoting coils.After sleeping on it for over a month, one tester says the Mint Hybrid Mattress kept her at an even temperature but isn’t one of the coolest mattresses out there, like the Aurora Luxe Cooling.The main downside our testers discovered is its edge support is somewhat lacking.One tester says, “It sinks a decent amount on the side of the bed when sitting.
This makes sense since it has a softer feel overall.I don’t think it’s the best edge support if that’s an important feature to you or you’re sharing a smaller bed.”
How It Compares To Similar Beds
The most similar mattress to the Tuft & Needle Mint Hybrid Mattress on this list is the all-foam Nectar Premier.The main differences between the two are the Mint Hybrid Mattress has coils and is a touch softer, and the Nectar Premier has better edge support and is less expensive.For a similar feel at a more competitive price point, check out the all-foam Tuft & Needle Mint Mattress model.
Related: You can learn more in our full Tuft & Needle Mint Hybrid Mattress review.
Why We Named It Best Mattress For Heavy People
The Titan Plus Luxe is our favorite option after testing and comparing 11 mattresses built specifically for heavyweight sleepers.Our team of seven plus-size testers found the Titan Plus Luxe to have “an exceptional balance of pillowy softness and firmness,” thanks to its plush quilted top and sturdy support layers.Half of our testers found it to be slightly firmer than advertised (more medium-firm than medium), but all of them enjoyed the sturdier feel and would recommend it to others, with one dubbing it “the penthouse of mattresses.”
Supportive, Pressure Relieving And So Comfortable
Our testers found its balanced feel works for all sleeping positions, scoring it a 9 out of 10 for side sleeping and an 8.5 out of 10 for both back and stomach sleeping.It also received a 9 out of 10 for overall pressure relief.Mattresses designed for plus-size sleepers tend to be somewhat lacking in the comfort department—but not the Titan Plus Luxe.
One tester was surprised to like it so much in comparison to the others, saying, “After enjoying the earlier extra-firm options, I expected moving into a softer one would be less comfortable.
Not so.This one feels amazing.There’s support where it’s needed and give where it’s needed, to my surprise.I could sleep on this one every night.”
Edge Support, Cooling And Motion Isolation For Couples
The high-density foams up top combined with the reinforced steel coils below create an overall lifted feel that’s easy to move around on.However, our testers note there isn’t much bounce to this mattress.
The Plus Luxe scored well for edge support and motion isolation, as well—a good sign for couples who want to use the full surface of the mattress and sleep undisturbed, regardless of their partner’s movements.Edge support is also crucial for anyone who likes to sleep or sit on the side of the bed.One tester says, “There’s a slight dip down when sitting, but I feel secure.If I wanted to tie my shoes, I could do it with ease.”
The Titan Plus Luxe features airflow-promoting coils along with cooling materials in its upper layers.
A tester who’s been sleeping on it at home with his wife says it shines in temperature regulation, adding it does a much better job keeping them cool than their old memory foam mattress.
It’s also worth noting that although his wife isn’t a heavyweight sleeper, she finds it extremely comfortable and says she has “no complaints”—a great sign for mixed-weight couples.
How It Compares To Similar Beds
The Titan Plus Luxe dethroned the Helix Plus as our top overall pick for heavy people, as it outperformed Helix in overall comfort and pressure relief—our testers found the Helix is best for those who specifically like firm beds with minimal sinkage.The WinkBed Plus and the Saatva HD Mattress were two other top contenders for plus-size sleepers.Both are highly rated mattresses made with durable materials specifically designed for plus-size sleepers.However, The WinkBed Plus has a lower weight capacity at a total of 900 pounds compared to the others’ 1,000 pounds, and the Saatva HD Mattress isn’t compatible with most regular foundations and box springs—so you’d likely have to buy a new foundation from Saatva.If you want a firmer feel and more luxurious overall build, you can upgrade to the Titan Plus Elite.
Related: For more, check out our full Titan Plus Luxe review.
Other Mattresses We’ve Tested That Are Worth Considering
While the beds listed below didn’t make the cut as one of the best models of the year, they each offer specific features that make them a good fit for certain sleep styles and preferences.
– Best For A Nontraditional Soft Feel:
Purple RestorePremier Hybrid Mattress(Forbes Vetted score: 4.75/5): This mattress is an excellent fit for sleepers seeking a nontraditional feel, plus it’s quite cooling—however, it comes only in a soft firmness.
Read more in our in-depthPurple RestorePremier Hybrid Mattress review.
– Most Comfortable Luxury Mattress:
Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt(Forbes Vetted score: 4.75/5): The Tempur-Adapt met our expectations for pressure relief and exceptional comfort.However, it’s more expensive than many of the mattresses on our list at $2,199 for a queen.Read more in ourTempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt mattress review.
– Best Luxury Cooling Mattress:
Stearns & Foster Lux Estate(Forbes Vetted score: 4.75/5): The Stearns & Foster Lux Estate caters to multiple body types and sleeping positions thanks to its exceptional support and pressure relief.One tester and her husband also highlight its cooling cover and upgraded ventilation features in herStearns & Foster Lux Estate mattress review.
– Best Mattress For Side Sleepers Runner-Up:
Brooklyn Bedding ThermoBalance(Forbes Vetted score 4.3/5): Brooklyn Bedding’s newest luxury hybrid mattress pairs a cool-to-the-touch cover with specialized material designed to regulate body temperature.During testing, our panelists scored it a 9 out of 10 for side sleepers and praised its noticeably chill feel.“I could feel a cooling sensation through my clothes as soon as I lay down,” says Dillon.We’ve also tested the upgradedThermoBalance Elite model, which has extra foam layers for additional support.
Mattresses We’re Testing Next
To keep our recommendations up to date, we continually test the latest mattress releases against our current winners.This summer, we plan to return to our New York City–based testing facility to put 26 new models through their paces.
Below, a sampling of the models we expect to test next:
DreamCloud PressureSmart: A new hybrid mattress from DreamCloud that claims to have improved cooling prowess, pressure relief and motion isolation.Bear Elite Ultra Hybrid: A more advanced version of our favorite mattress for couples, the Bear Elite Hybrid, which adds an extra cooling layer for better temperature regulation and microcoils for a more responsive feel.Purple Rejuvenate: The base model in Purple’s luxury mattress line that uses the brand’s unique Grid technology to offer enough support for stomach sleepers.Boring Hybrid: An affordable hybrid mattress, which costs $799 for a queen-size model from a brand that aims to simplify mattress shopping.
How We Tested The Best Mattresses
Our mattress testing methodology is a multistage process overseen by certified sleep science coaches and expert editors.We combine intensive panel testing sessions with long-term, real-world use and compare every bed against the same set of criteria.This ensures consistency and helps us recommend specific models for different types of sleepers.
Testing Process
– Expert-led: The entire process was guided by our sleep editors and certified sleep science coaches, Bridget Chapman and McKenzie Dillon.
– Diverse panel: We utilized a panel of 30 testers representing a wide range of body types, sleep positions and comfort preferences to ensure our findings are well-rounded.
– Multistage evaluation: Our testing included two key phases: an intensive nine-day, in-person testing period for initial analysis, followed by at-home, long-term testing for at least 30 nights to assess real-world durability.
– Data-driven feedback: Throughout all testing, our panelists took detailed notes and recorded quantitative scores to ensure our analysis is consistent and thorough.
Key Criteria
– Pressure relief: This measures how well a mattress cradles pressure points.Our testers, representing various body types and weights, lay in each sleeping position, noting any discomfort or pressure buildup around the hips and shoulders.
– Motion transfer: To assess how well a bed isolates movement—a key factor for couples—we performed two tests.First, one person lay on the bed while another made various movements, from tossing and turning to getting in and out of bed.We supplemented this with a water glass test to objectively measure motion isolation.
– Support: This refers to the mattress’ ability to handle weight without excessive sinkage.
We tested support across the entire surface, paying close attention to the perimeter by sitting and lying on the edge to evaluate its stability.
– Spinal alignment: We had testers lie in each position while another person observed whether their spine remained in a neutral line.A mattress that maintains healthy sleep posture and prevents the hips from sinking too far is crucial for pain prevention.
– Ease of movement: We assessed how easily testers could change positions and get out of bed.
We looked for any feeling of being “stuck” in the foam and also tested bounce by dropping weighted items to monitor their rebound.
– Cooling: To test for temperature regulation, our testers slept on the mattresses, noting any heat buildup or if they woke up feeling warm.We also evaluated the materials and any specific cooling claims made by the brand.
What To Consider When Shopping For The Best Mattresses
When thinking about how to choose the best mattress for you (and, if applicable, your partner), consider sleep position, body types, mattress type and mattress firmness level.We break down our top criteria below.(For in-depth pointers, see our guide on how to buy a mattress.)
Mattress Type
Here’s a look at the most popular mattress types and who they’re best for:
Memory foam mattresseshave thick foam layers that excel at pressure relief and motion isolation, preventing movements from reverberating across the bed—a major benefit for couples.
However, that signature contouring can lead to a “stuck in bed” sensation.Memory foam can also trap heat, so it’s wise to look for models with cooling materials.Hybrid mattressesare made with coil support systems and foam comfort layers to offer a balanced feel.The coils help promote airflow and support, while the foams provide pressure relief and comfort.We recommend hybrid mattresses often since they’re a great in-between option.Latex mattressesconsist of latex foam, which is a bouncy, durable, cooling and eco-friendly material.Latex doesn’t offer deep sinkage like memory foam, but it does provide contouring that many sleepers enjoy.Innerspring mattressesfeature a coil-on-coil construction with thinner comfort layers, providing a firm and responsive feel that keeps sleepers lifted on top of the bed.However, they lack the plushness found in other mattress types.
To address this, many modern innersprings now incorporate more comfort layers.
Sleep Position
Your sleep position plays a role in the firmness level you find most comfortable.To help quantify firmness, mattresses are rated on a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest and 10 the firmest.Here are the firmness levels we suggest based on your sleeping position:
– Side sleepers: A soft to medium-firm mattress (3 to 6 on the firmness scale) is best for most side sleepers, as it allows the shoulders and hips to sink into the mattress comfortably, which limits joint pain.
For more recommendations for this sleep style, read our guide to the
best mattresses for side sleepers.- Back sleepers: This sleeping position needs a blend of pressure relief and support to maintain spinal alignment without feeling pressure buildup around the joints and lower back.Because of this, a medium-firm to firm mattress (5 to 7 on the firmness scale) is best.
See our guide to the
best mattresses for back sleepersfor more recommendations.- Stomach sleepers: A firm or extra-firm mattress (7 to 10 on the firmness scale) is best for stomach sleepers because it provides a supportive surface that lifts the hips and prevents lower back pain.For specific recommendations, see our guide to the
best mattresses for stomach sleepers.- Combination sleepers: For those who switch positions, we recommend choosing a firmness that suits the position you’re in the most.
If you can’t decide, medium-firm (5 to 7 on the firmness scale) is a safe bet since it accommodates the most sleep styles.Check out our guide to the
best mattresses for combination sleepersfor more details.
Body Type And Weight
Body type and weight also contribute to how a mattress feels and the level of support it has.
– Lightweight sleepers (under 150 pounds) do best with softer or plusher options; because they don’t sink into mattresses as much as heavier folks, beds tend to feel firmer.
– Average-weight sleepers (150 to 250 pounds) do well on multiple firmness levels, as long as the mattress is geared to their sleep position.
– Heavier sleepers (over 250 pounds) sink into mattresses more, so beds feel softer.We recommend a firmer option for this group, one that’s built for optimal support.See our guide to the
best mattresses for heavy peoplefor more advice.
Cooling Features
If you’re a hot sleeper or share the bed with one, you may need a mattress with cooling features that improve temperature regulation and airflow.
For most hot sleepers, we recommend hybrid or latex mattresses that come with cool-to-the-touch covers, and copper- and gel-infused foams that draw heat away from the body.See our best cooling mattresses guide for specific recommendations.
Trial Period And Warranty
Most mattress brands offer a 100-night (or longer) trial, though most require a 30-night break-in period before requesting a return.Some brands offer trials up to one full year.
Most mattresses are also backed by at least a 10-year warranty covering manufacturing defects like premature sagging or broken coils.However, typical wear and tear usually isn’t covered, so be sure to closely follow the warranty guidelines to avoid voiding it.
Some brands offer longer warranties, spanning 20 years to a full lifetime, which is typically indicative of a more durable bed.
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
Our expert sleep and mattress team is responsible for a robust library of sleep guides, including top mattress and bedding picks for different sleepers and expert-approved tips for better sleep.
– Deputy sleep and wellness editor
Bridget Chapmanis the head of our sleep team.She has more than a decade of experience in the industry and holds a sleep science coach certification.Chapman spearheaded our recent testing (and retesting) efforts of every mattress on this list, along with dozens of other beds.- Mattress and sleep editor
McKenzie Dilloncontributed testing and research insights for this story.
She is also a certified sleep science coach and prolific mattress tester with five years of experience.Alongside Chapman, she helped lead our recent mattress retesting session.
– All sleep story updates are overseen by senior strategy editor
Katie Simpson, who has a background in mattress testing and analysis, including testing over 100 beds.- We continually monitor developments in the mattress industry and keep tabs on the latest product recalls.
This story was last updated in June 2026 by commerce writer
Alexandra Garrett, who participated in several rounds of our mattress testing..
