Best Cheap Mattresses
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Written by Loren Bullock, Lead Mattress Tester
Methodology
Here at Mattress Nerd, we’ve tested hundreds of mattresses to bring you unbiased, expert reviews of the top brands. Learn more.
In This Article
We’ll help you save a buck (or two) by detailing the best cheap mattresses that have a low base price or often go on sale.
Finding a balance between comfort and support in a mattress with the right price tag can be a hassle. You don’t want to end up with a cheap mattress that leaves you with aches and pains and gives you a bad night of sleep. However, it is possible to find a bed that satisfies your comfort preferences at a low price.
In this guide, we will teach you what to look for in a mattress and what the appropriate price range is for a decent mattress. Expensive mattresses often feature additional layers, materials, or target specific sleeper types, but those bells and whistles are not always needed for a great night’s sleep. One of our top picks is sure to be the right mattress for your body type, comfort preferences, and your budget.
The Best Affordable Mattresses For Your Budget
- Helix Midnight – Best Affordable Mattress for Couples
- Nolah Original – Best Affordable Mattress for Side Sleepers
- Brooklyn Bedding Essential – Best Affordable Mattress for Combination Sleepers
- Bear Original – Best Affordable Mattress for Active Lifestyles
- Plank Firm – Best Affordable Firm Mattress
- Cocoon by Sealy Chill – Best Affordable Mattress for Back Pain
- Serta Perfect Sleeper – Best Affordable Mattress for Seniors
- Siena Memory Foam Mattress – Best Affordable Mattress for Lightweight Sleepers
- Dreamfoam Hybrid – Best Affordable Cooling Mattress –
Best Affordable Mattresses: Video Review
Watch this video to hear directly from the Nerds about the best cheap mattresses and why.
How We Test Our Top Picks?
At Mattress Nerd, our team tests upwards of a dozen new mattresses per month, with models ranging from under $500 to over $2,000. We run each mattress through the same comprehensive tests, regardless of the price tag.
Through our testing, we’ve found the mattresses on this list to be high quality, comfortable, supportive, and, most importantly, affordable. To learn more, check out our review process.
Best Affordable Mattress for Couples: Helix Midnight
Finding an affordable mattress that accommodates both members of a couple can be difficult, but the Helix Midnight makes it easy with quality construction and a middle-of-the-road feel. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. Finding an affordable mattress that accommodates both members of a couple can be difficult, but the Helix Midnight makes it easy with quality construction and a middle-of-the-road feel. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. Finding an affordable mattress that accommodates both members of a couple can be difficult, but the Helix Midnight makes it easy with quality construction and a middle-of-the-road feel. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Helix Midnight Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
Helix Midnight Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
Helix Midnight Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
Helix Sleep makes several mattresses in a variety of firmness levels, but there is a reason that the Helix Midnight is their best seller. It has a medium-firm feel that suits all types of sleepers, regulates body temperature at night and does a good job of isolating motion on either side of the bed, all factors which are very important if you and your partner would like to sleep comfortably at night.
The Helix Midnight contours around all sizes of side sleepers and most back sleepers to promote spinal alignment and help alleviate back pain in sensitive sleepers. Its medium-firm feel is pleasing to a wide variety of sleepers, and the addition of the coils provides extra support for stomach sleepers to keep their hips lifted. A queen Helix Midnight costs right around $900, and there is a more elevated “Luxe” version of the Helix Midnight that costs approximately $500 more.
This bed is complete with free shipping, as well as its 100-night trial and 10-15 year warranty.
Who Might Like the Helix Midnight Mattress
- Side sleepers of all body types—lightweight (< 130 lbs), average-weight (130–230 lbs), and heavyweight (> 230 lbs)
- Couples
- Memory foam lovers concerned about overheating
- Value shoppers
Who Might Not Like the Helix Midnight Mattress
- Heavyweight back sleepers and stomach sleepers
- Combination sleepers
- Fans of extra soft or extra firm mattresses
Other User Reviews
The Helix Midnight rates 4.5 stars out of 5 on the Helix website. The main negative is that reviewers tend to find it too soft for their liking and feel as though they’re sinking. But overall, users say they’re getting a great nights’ sleep and some pain relief.
How We Select Nerd’s Pick
You might be surprised to see that our top mattress on this list does not have the highest overall Nerd Score. While it’s true that the Helix Midnight isn’t the best overall mattress compared to the others featured here, in our opinion it performs the best for people shopping for a reliable, affordable mattress. The most important factor in this decision was of course the cost, but we didn’t simply put the cheapest mattress at the top of the list. The Helix Midnight, while affordable, performs well for a wide range of sleepers and has impressive durability for its price point.
See our full Helix Midnight mattress review for more info! Not sure the Helix Midnight is the Mattress for you? Check out other great recommendations for our best mattresses for couples!
Best Affordable Mattress for Side Sleepers: Nolah Original
Nolah Original 10" Mattress
The Nolah Original is a budget-friendly mattress that works especially well for side sleepers.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nolah Original 10" Mattress
The Nolah Original is a budget-friendly mattress that works especially well for side sleepers.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nolah Original 10" Mattress
The Nolah Original is a budget-friendly mattress that works especially well for side sleepers.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Thanks to our super scientific pressure map in the Mattress Nerd lab, we’re able to determine how well a mattress performs for side and back sleepers. And, according to our readings, the Nolah mattress does exceptionally well when it comes to supporting the sensitive pressure points of side sleepers. Not only that, but it does so at the affordable price of $1,149 for a Queen.
The three foam layers of the Nolah mattress provide comfort and support, particularly to lightweight and average-weight side sleepers—demographics which require ample comfort and support in order to avoid hip and shoulder pain.
Plus, this mattress comes with a 120-night trial and lifetime warranty. Comfort, support, and dependability at a fair price. What more can you ask for?
Who Might Like the Nolah Original Mattress
- Side sleepers
- Sleepers with back pain
- People who sleep hot
Who Might Not Like the Nolah Original Mattress
- Heavyweight sleepers
- Innerspring mattress lovers
- People who enjoy the “hugging” feel of memory foam
Other User Reviews
On the Nolah website, this mattress earned 4.7 out of 5 stars. Reviews said that this mattress is the perfect balance between support and softness.
Read our full Nolah mattress review to learn more!
Best Affordable Mattress for Combination Sleepers: Brooklyn Bedding Essential
Brooklyn Bedding Essential
The Brooklyn Essential has the bounciness that combo sleepers need to comfortably toss and turn throughout the night.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Brooklyn Bedding Essential
The Brooklyn Essential has the bounciness that combo sleepers need to comfortably toss and turn throughout the night.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Brooklyn Bedding Essential
The Brooklyn Essential has the bounciness that combo sleepers need to comfortably toss and turn throughout the night.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
The Brooklyn Bedding Essential mattress is great for anyone looking for a quality mattress on a budget. In addition to being at an affordable price point, it has a hybrid construction, which is rare for a mattress this cheap.
The middle-of-the-road feel has the right amount of responsiveness for combination sleepers who may toss and turn on their mattress. Plus, it does a great job of accommodating side and back sleepers, so if these are the two primary positions that you switch between at night then you should find the Brooklyn Essential comfortable and supportive.
This bed-in-a-box comes with free shipping and returns, along with a 10-year warranty and 120-night trial.
Who Might Like the Nolah Original Mattress
- Back sleepers
- Couples
- People who sleep hot
Who Might Not Like the Nolah Original Mattress
- Stomach sleepers
Other User Reviews
On the Brooklyn Bedding website, this mattress scored 4.8 out of 5 stars, from over 500 reviews. Reviews say this mattress was a great way to upgrade their bedding on a budget, as it is comfortable and sleeps cool all night.
Not sure the Brooklyn Essential is for you? Check out other recommendations for the best mattresses for combination sleepers.
Best Affordable Mattress for Active Lifestyles: Bear Original
Bear Original Mattress
Bear claims this mattress’s Celliant technology promotes muscle recovery by converting body heat into infrared energy.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Bear Original Mattress
Bear claims this mattress’s Celliant technology promotes muscle recovery by converting body heat into infrared energy.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Bear Original Mattress
Bear claims this mattress’s Celliant technology promotes muscle recovery by converting body heat into infrared energy.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Whether you start each day with a jog or like to lift weights at your local gym, recovery is an essential part of an athletic lifestyle, and an essential part of recovery is a great night’s sleep. The Bear mattress, specifically designed with athletes in mind, promotes deep sleep and muscle recovery at the affordable price of $995 for a Queen.
Constructed with graphite-gel memory foam, transition foam, and high-density support foam, the Bear mattress provides exceptional pressure relief—a quality which helps prevent aches and pains around sensitive areas like your shoulders and hips. Not only can this help you sleep more comfortably after a long workout, but also help you perform more capably and confidently the following day. In short, if you’re after a bed that will support your active lifestyle but not break your bank then the Bear mattress may be right for you.
You can test out the Bear with its 120-night trial and lifetime warranty, along with free shipping and returns.
Who Might Like the Bear Original Mattress
- Back and stomach sleepers
- Combination sleepers
- People with active lifestyles
Who Might Not Like the Bear Original Mattress
- Heavyweight sleepers
- Hot sleepers
- Couples
Other User Reviews
On the Bear website, this mattress scored approximately 4.4 out of 5 stars, from 10,000 reviews. Customers love the firmness level of this mattress and say it helps them get restful nights of sleep. However, there were complaints of poor edge support, leading to the sagging of the mattress.
See our Bear mattress review for more information. Not sure the Dreamfoam Mattress is for you? Check out our other expert-recommended mattresses for athletes to find your perfect night’s sleep.
Best Affordable Firm Mattress: Plank Firm
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress
With a different firmness on each side, this sturdy mattress accommodates a surprisingly wide range of sleepers.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress
With a different firmness on each side, this sturdy mattress accommodates a surprisingly wide range of sleepers.
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress
With a different firmness on each side, this sturdy mattress accommodates a surprisingly wide range of sleepers.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
If you’re looking for a firm feel, the Plank Firm mattress is a fantastic value product for its cheap price. It’s difficult to find such a supportive, durable mattress for a low price, but you can find this model for under $1,500 before discounts.
The Plank Firm is flippable, boasting two different firmnesses. The firm side ranked a 7.5/10 on our firmness scale, and the extra firm side ranked a 9/10 on our firmness scale. Heavier back and stomach sleepers of heavier weights should do well on the extra firm side, while lightweight sleepers will want more softness on the firm side.
With the Plank Firm, you can enjoy free delivery, a 120-night trial, and a 10-year warranty.
Who Might Like the Plank Firm Mattress
- People who find most beds too soft
- Back & stomach sleepers
- Side sleepers who prefer a firm mattress
- People with back pain
Who Might Not Like the Plank Firm Mattress
- Side sleepers who want deep cushioning
- Hot sleepers
- Couples concerned about motion transfer
Other User Reviews
On the Brooklyn Bedding site, this mattress scored 4.8 out of 5 stars, from over 2,000 reviews. Praise is given to the firmness of this bed that helped the back pain of users. There were some complaints about the mattress not expanding after being removed from the box.
See our full Plank Firm mattress review for more information. Not sure the Plank Firm is your perfect fit? Check out our other best firm mattresses recommended by our experts.
Best Affordable Mattress for Back Pain: Cocoon by Sealy Chill
Cocoon Chill Mattress
While not the best mattress we’ve ever tested, the low price (especially when on sale) of the Cocoon earns it some serious points.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-soft: 5/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Cocoon Chill Mattress
While not the best mattress we’ve ever tested, the low price (especially when on sale) of the Cocoon earns it some serious points.
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-soft: 5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Cocoon Chill Mattress
While not the best mattress we’ve ever tested, the low price (especially when on sale) of the Cocoon earns it some serious points.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-soft: 5/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Sleepers who experience back pain may worry that they have to shell out thousands of dollars to find a mattress with good presure relief. Thanks to Cocoon by Sealy’s Chill memory foam mattress, though, excellent pressure point relief doesn’t have to be expensive.
When our testers slept on this medium-soft mattress, we found that lightweight and average-weight sleepers experienced almost no pressure, while heavyweight sleepers should opt for the Chill Hybrid for better support in their hip and low back area.
Customers receive a 100-night sleep trial and 10-year warranty, plus free shipping.
Who Might Like the Cocoon Mattress
- People who sleep hot as the phase change material is designed to absorb heat from the body and move it away
- Couples and those who co-sleep as it minimizing motion transfer
- Back sleepers due to its pressure relief
Who Might Not Like the Cocoon Mattress
- Heavyweight stomach sleepers as it doesn’t have the level of support needed by stomach sleepers who weigh over 230 pounds
- People who toss and turn as it is not the most responsive
- Lightweight side sleepers as it may be too firm for adequate pressure relief
Other User Reviews
On the Cocoon by Sealy website, this mattress scored 4.7 out of 5 stars, from over 8,000 reviews. Users love the cooling technology and materials in this bed, providing customers with a cool night of sleep. There were some complaints that the materials broke down too early and the construction was not sufficient.
Read our full Cocoon by Sealy Chill mattress review for more details. If you aren’t interested in the Cocoon by Sealy Chill mattress, check out our list of the best mattresses for back pain for more great options.
Best Affordable Mattress for Seniors: Serta Perfect Sleeper Mattress
Serta Perfect Sleeper Renewed Night
The extra-firm model of the Serta Perfect Sleeper boasts outstanding edge support—a very important feature for seniors.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
10-year limited warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Serta Perfect Sleeper Renewed Night
The extra-firm model of the Serta Perfect Sleeper boasts outstanding edge support—a very important feature for seniors.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year limited warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Serta Perfect Sleeper Renewed Night
The extra-firm model of the Serta Perfect Sleeper boasts outstanding edge support—a very important feature for seniors.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year limited warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
The Serta Perfect Sleeper mattress is a hybrid bed that comes in three firmness options. Its solid edge support makes it a great option for seniors or anyone who would benefit from a supportive surface to ease into and out of bed. It’s also a responsive mattress, which can help make it easier to move on the bed.
Not looking to deal with the set-up of a typical bed-in-a-box mattress? Serta offers white glove delivery for an additional fee, which means you don’t have to do any of the heavy lifting yourself.
Who Might Like the Serta Perfect Sleeper Mattress
- Fans of rock solid edge support
- Combination sleepers
- Shoppers who want options
Who Might Not Like the Serta Perfect Sleeper Mattress
- Heavyweight side sleepers
- Easily awoken couples
- Super hot sleepers
Other User Reviews
On the Serta website, this mattress scored 4.9 out of 5 stars, from over 200 reviews. Praise is given to the low price of the mattress and high quality of materials.
Read our full Serta Perfect Sleeper mattress review to learn more.
Best Affordable Mattress for Lightweight Sleepers: Siena Mattress
Siena Mattress
Lightweight sleepers (under 130 lbs), regardless of preferred sleeping position, should find comfort and support on the Siena.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
180 Nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Siena Mattress
Lightweight sleepers (under 130 lbs), regardless of preferred sleeping position, should find comfort and support on the Siena.
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
180 Nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Siena Mattress
Lightweight sleepers (under 130 lbs), regardless of preferred sleeping position, should find comfort and support on the Siena.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Trial Period
180 Nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
The Siena mattress is a good fit for sleepers that weigh less than 130 lbs. It’s also a good fit for couples thanks to its stellar motion isolation.
If you’re in the search for an affordable memory foam mattress, be sure to check out the Siena. It also comes with a 180-night sleep trial and 10-year warranty to ensure you’re happy with your purchase.
Who Might Like the Siena Mattress
- Couples
- Lightweight sleepers
- Budget-conscious shoppers
Who Might Not Like the Siena Mattress
- Heavyweight sleepers
- Hot sleepers
- Luxury sleepers
Other User Reviews
On the Siena website, this mattress scored approximately 4.3 out of 5 stars, from 1,000 reviews. Customers give credit to this mattress for being a great medium between soft and firm, with a great price tag. However, there were complaints of it sleeping warm and causing back pain.
Read our full Siena mattress review to learn more.
Best Affordable Cooling Mattress: Dreamfoam Hybrid
Dreamfoam Hybrid Mattress
Aside from its very low price, temperature regulation is by far the biggest appeal of this memory foam mattress.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Dreamfoam Hybrid Mattress
Aside from its very low price, temperature regulation is by far the biggest appeal of this memory foam mattress.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Dreamfoam Hybrid Mattress
Aside from its very low price, temperature regulation is by far the biggest appeal of this memory foam mattress.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
The Dreamfoam Hybrid mattress (formerly known as the Dreamfoam Arctic Dreams mattress) is a bargain for those who enjoy sleeping on a cooler mattress. We recommend it for lightweight and average-weight back sleepers as well as some combination sleepers.
The features of this gel memory foam mattress include some of our favorite types of cooling materials. The gel-infused foam and cooling panel helps to keep things chilled, while the breathable coil system keeps air moving to prevent heat buildup. The Queen size Dreamfoam Hybrid can be yours for the low price of $749, and that’s before the sales that the company often run.
Who Might Like the Dreamfoam Hybrid Mattress
- Lightweight and average-weight back sleepers
- Some stomach sleepers
Who Might Not Like the Dreamfoam Hybrid Mattress
- Heavyweight sleepers
Other User Reviews
On the Dreamfoam by Brooklyn Bedding website, this mattress scored 4.7 out of 5 stars, from about 2,000 reviews. Users rave about the support of this mattress and its firmness. However, there were complaints over customer experience and the lack of cooling.
Read our full Dreamfoam Hybrid Review to learn more. Not interested in the Dreamfoam Hybrid Mattress? Check out our list of best cooling mattresses for other great recommendations.
How Much Does a Good Mattress Cost?
How much should you pay for a decent mattress? Mattress price is largely dependent on the size of the mattress and construction type. Mattresses can range from around $300 to $7,000, with many options in between each end of the spectrum. You might be wondering what’s the big deal between a lower end mattress and one that is more expensive? Sure, there are mattresses out there for $300 that provide a place to lay your head, but that’s about it.
When shopping for a mattress, there are important considerations that each individual sleeper must evaluate in order to pick the best mattress for their respective budget. For our suggestions, see our list on the best mattress for the money.
How Much Should You Spend on a Mattress?
What’s the Cheapest Type of Mattress?
Of all the different mattress types available, the most budget-friendly is memory foam. Memory foam mattresses range anywhere from $250 to $1,000 and last roughly seven years. A durable mattress features a strong support base and a top layer that prevents unnecessary sagging. The best memory foam mattresses use high-density foam to support larger sleepers, combination sleepers or stomach sleepers– in addition to lighter sleepers.
These same sleepers often need mattresses with additional layers and a stronger construction, leading to a higher price.
An innerspring mattress provides extra bounce and breathability for hot sleepers, and is often stronger for larger sleepers. Hybrid mattresses combine the foam layers of a memory foam bed and the coil construction of an innerspring mattress. A decent hybrid mattress ranges anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000 and lasts about 10 years. Hybrids are more durable than memory foam, and you will pay for that.
Latex mattresses can reach prices up to $3,000 because of their naturally sourced materials, which cost more to produce. Latex mattresses often incorporate natural wool or cotton to increase breathability and increase the organic materials within the mattress construction. However, like hybrids, latex mattresses are highly durable, lasting up to 15 years and less likely to sag than layers of foam.
What To Expect from a Cheap Mattress?
- Firmness & Feel: The most common mattress firmness is a medium-firm feel, resting somewhere in the middle of our mattress firmness scale. With 1 being the softest and 10 being the firmest, most budget mattresses will be a 5 or 6 level of firmness. Because of this, the best affordable mattresses will appeal to a wide range of sleepers. The medium firmness will prevent combination and stomach sleepers from feeling stuck within the foam layers. Back and side sleepers will benefit from the softer foam top layers that provide optimal pressure relief.
- Motion Isolation: While not everyone loves the feel of a memory foam mattress, foam absorbs motion transfer between couples better than an innerspring coil mattress. The best mattress for couples is able to suit multiple sleeping positions while preventing motion spread across the bed. Young couples looking for a durable and quality mattress should find a bed that works in our list above.
- Edge Support: Mattresses with a foam encasement or a coil base will have stronger edge support than a standard all-foam mattress. For those who spend time on the edge of the bed or couples who need to maximize the sleepable surface, edge support should be considered in their mattress choice. See our article on edge support in mattresses for more info.
- Pressure Relief: As with many of the mattresses on this list, pressure relief is common in mattresses with foam layers that contour around pressure points at the hips and shoulders. While pressure relief is found in other mattresses, we believe that these affordable mattresses excel in this area.
- Spine Alignment: Spinal alignment is important in all sleeping positions, especially back and stomach sleepers. For proper spinal alignment, a mattress must have pressure relief and a strong support layer. Hybrid mattresses and dense foam mattresses should provide firm enough support to keep the spine aligned and keep the hips lifted on top of the mattress. To learn more, check out our article on spine alignment and sleep.
- Durability: Mattress durability ranges on the materials used. We estimate that most of the mattresses on your list will last about seven years, a good amount of time for budget mattresses. If you begin to notice normal wear on your mattress, there are things you can do to prevent or fix mattress sagging.
- Temperature: Some of the mattresses on our budget list incorporate gel-infused memory foam, coils, or phase-changing materials to combat overheating. Many of these construction additions can be found in more expensive mattresses but you may want to consider a cooling mattress topper for less of an investment.
Where To Buy A Cheap Mattress?
When debating mattress price, quality is key, but the price tag is important too. If you don’t want to compromise on quality but are worried about spending too much, shop online. The best online mattresses are generally cheaper than mattresses sold in a store.
That’s because online mattress retailers cut out all the middle man costs, floor markups and mattress salesman tricks. Online mattresses are sold direct-to-consumer, so you don’t have to worry about a salesman trying to make a commission off you.
Plus, online retailers often have incredible sales on the best mattresses and many mattresses are available for purchase at third-party retailers like Amazon. Check out our recommendations on the best mattresses on Amazon for mattresses available for purchase. For more info, check out our article on buying a mattress online vs. in-store.
Pros and Cons of Cheap Mattresses
Pros
- Cheap mattresses are easier on your wallet (obviously).
- An affordable mattress is less of a commitment—perfect for starter or transitional mattresses.
- A cheaper mattress may allow you to worry less when it comes to spills, pets, or children staining or damaging the mattress.
Cons
- The quality of construction may not be on par with more expensive mattresses.
- The materials in a cheap mattress may degrade faster, meaning you will need to purchase a new one sooner than you’d expect.
- They may not offer the comfort and support that you seek in a mattress.
Should You Consider A More Expensive Mattress?
Beware that if you go the cheaper route and purchase a lower quality mattress, you put yourself at risk for a number of negative physical symptoms. These include low back pain, joint pain, waking up achy, and sleep loss that can lead to memory issues, increased blood pressure, weight gain, and depression. Our best advice is to take your sleep trial period seriously and pay attention to how your body adjusts to the new mattress.
Is it supportive enough? Does it wear out easily? Does it limit motion transfer enough? Is there enough edge support? Is your sleep suffering from being on the mattress? Most brands give you an average of 100 nights to try the bed out, so take it seriously and pay attention to how your sleep changes sleeping on the new mattress. If you decide you might want something a bit more expensive, check out our list of the best luxury mattresses.
Best Affordable Mattress FAQ
Where can I buy a cheap mattress?
Most mattress retailers will offer what they consider an affordable option. However, we find that online mattress stores cater to budget shoppers much more than brick and mortar shops do. Many of the top brands sell at least one model that can be purchased for under $1,000, plus they often run generous sales that can save you hundreds of dollars.
How can I make a cheap mattress more comfortable?
Consider a mattress topper for some added comfort. They are much more affordable than replacing your mattress outright and they can make a world of difference if you purchase the right one. Check out our list of the best mattress toppers for more information.
What is the best cheap mattress?
It depends on your sleep preferences, budget, and body type. We stand by all of the products on this list as great options that are more affordable than the average high-quality mattress
Which mattress lasts the longest?
We won’t lie, there is at least a slight correlation between a mattress’s cost and its longevity. More expensive mattresses tend to last longer because of their high-quality construction.
That said, it doesn’t mean a more affordable mattress can”t last you for upwards of ten years As you’re shopping, always keep an eye out for hybrid mattresses. This type is more likely to maintain its structural integrity, even at a lower price point. Also, rotate your mattress frequently, as it can prevent sagging from occurring in one particular area.
How cheap is too cheap for a mattress?
There isn’t a simple answer to this question. You might stumble upon a $400 mattress that suits your needs perfectly. The important thing is that you do your research and read reviews of the product. If the product has no reviews then that”s probably a bad sign.
Recap of the Top Rated Affordable Mattresses
Mattress | Award | Nerd Score |
Helix Midnight | Best Affordable Mattress for Couples | 4.8/5 |
Nolah | Best Affordable Mattress for Side Sleepers | 3.4/5 |
Brooklyn Bedding Essential | Best Affordable Mattress For Combination Sleepers | 3.8/5 |
Bear Original | Best Affordable Mattress for Active Lifestyles | 4.0/5 |
Plank Firm | Best Affordable Firm Mattress | 4.0/5 |
Cocoon by Sealy Chill | Best Affordable Mattress for Back Pain | 2.5/5 |
Serta Perfect Sleeper | Best Affordable Mattress for Seniors | 3.8/5 |
Siena | Best Affordable Mattress for Lightweight Sleepers | 4.0/5 |
DreamFoam Cool | Best Affordable Cooling Mattress | 4.6/5 |
Loren Bullock
Lead Mattress Tester
About Author
Loren is the Lead Mattress Reviewer at Mattress Nerd. She has prioritized sleeping for as long as she can remember, rarely deviating from seven to nine hours each night. As an editor on Mattress Nerd, Loren aims to help people achieve optimal sleep health and pick the best sleep accessories for their needs. You can find her testing mattresses, exploring the best sleep hacks, and telling you about her findings on Mattress Nerd’s YouTube channel and on TikTok.
Combination Sleeper
Education & Credentials
- Certified Sleep Science Coach