The 7 Best Cheap Mattresses of 2024 for Any Budget

So, you’ve decided to upgrade your sleep, but you don’t want to drop heaps of cash on a block of foam and some coils. We hear you. We see you. And luckily for you, the difference between the best cheap mattress and a luxury, expensive one ain't what it used to be. Thanks to the leaps and bounds of mattress-in-a-box technology, we’re seeing brands bring quality mattresses that won’t creak or sag to the masses for under $1,000.

This is great news because most people spend about a third of their lives in bed, and research shows that the quality of a person’s mattress—probably their pillow, too—makes a big difference in the quality of their sleep. After hours of researching and testing (aka snoozing) on a bunch of mattresses (including ones you can buy on Amazon), we’ve found some top-notch, budget-friendly options that won’t leave you tossing and turning.

Our Favorite Cheap Mattress Overall

When it comes to the best affordable mattress, the Nectar Memory Foam Mattress takes the crown. This medium-firm gem feels like a warm hug, offering stellar support and motion isolation that's perfect for a peaceful night’s sleep. Plus, with a 100-night trial and a 15-year warranty, it’s a risk-free investment in your comfort.

Best Cheap Mattresses: At a Glance

If you’re looking to save some cash or just need a practical solution for your sleeping needs, we’ve got you covered with the best cheap mattresses.

• Best Cheap Mattress Overall : Nectar Classic Memory Foam Mattress
• Best Cheap Hybrid Mattress: DreamCloud Hybrid Mattress
• Best Affordable Mattress in a Box: Brooklyn Bedding Essential Hybrid Mattress
• Best Budget Cooling Mattress: Bear Original Memory Foam Mattress
• Best Affordable Mattress for Couples: Emma Hybrid Comfort Mattress
• Best Cheap Firm Mattress: Silk & Snow Memory Foam Mattress
• Best Affordable Mattress for Back Pain: Siena Original Memory Foam Mattress

The Nectar Classic Memory Foam Mattress is our top pick for the best cheap mattress because of its all-around features that provide optimal cool and comfortable sleep. This medium-firm option contours and cushions pressure points for a doughy, hugging feel that doesn’t sink in too much.

The problem with memory foam is that it often sacrifices support for cushy comfort. It’s almost like brands took “sleeping on a cloud” a little too seriously. Luckily, Nectar’s memory foam mattress bucks the trend all without adding any coils (and keeping that price tag low). In our testing, we found the memory foam material contours to your body for superb pressure relief and motion isolation. This means you can toss and turn without disturbing your partner, which is a huge plus for light sleepers. The foam is CertiPUR-US certified, which means it's free from chemicals and low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that the Environmental Working Group has deemed not so great for human health.

We think Nectar's 100-night trial and 15-year warranty make it a fairly risk-free investment—at least, way less risky than going all-in on crypto. In our testing, we noticed the mattress excels in cooling, thanks to its gel-infused memory foam layer and crisp cover, which help regulate temperature all night—a great feature for sweaty sleepers. With free shipping and returns, Nectar’s memory foam mattress is a great option to try without having to deal with pushy salespeople who prioritize making a quick buck rather than getting a good night’s sleep.

DreamCloud

DreamCloud Hybrid Mattress

$665

DreamCloud

Pros & Cons

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Pros

• Excellent support for back sleepers
• Great pressure relief
• Gel-infused memory foam for cooling
• Lengthy 365-night trial period and lifetime warranty

Cons

• Heavier than some other hybrids
• May be too firm for side sleepers
• Edge support could be better

The DreamCloud Hybrid Mattress is our top pick for the best cheap hybrid mattress, thanks to its luxury feel (including a bougie cashmere cover) at a bargain price. This swanky hybrid strikes an ideal mix of firm support and plush comfort, designed with maximum airflow, making it a literal dream come true for back sleepers and hot sleepers alike.

In our testing, we found the DreamCloud Hybrid Mattress to be a rockstar in the hybrid category with a firm, supportive feel, rated at 7/10, which makes it excellent for back sleepers. The combo of memory foam and pocketed coils creates an ideal mix of pressure relief and support, so you wake up refreshed and pain-free. Plus, the gel-infused memory foam layer helps keep you cool throughout the night, which is a big win for hot sleepers.

We think the DreamCloud's 365-night trial and lifetime warranty make it an unbeatable value. The mattress also features a cashmere-blend cover for a touch of upscale luxury and breathable comfort, so you’ll forget it's a budget pick. With free shipping and returns, it's hard to find a better deal for a mattress that promises such a high-quality sleep experience. The only downside? It’s a bit heavier than some other hybrids, but the side handles make it easier to move around (you are rotating your mattress every six months, right?).

Brooklyn Bedding

Brooklyn Bedding Essential Mattress

$699

Brooklyn Bedding

Pros & Cons

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Pros

• Stellar support for back sleepers
• Great pressure relief
• Breathable materials for cooling
• Excellent edge support

Cons

• Heavier than some hybrids
• Motion isolation is lacking
• May be too firm for side sleepers

Long gone are the days of having a couple of strangers lugging a mattress into your home, only to create havoc and mayhem (and a few scratches) in your fortress of sleepitude. The advent of ordering mattresses online has created the wonderful phenomenon of the mattress-in-a-box, and our top pick for the best affordable one is the Brooklyn Bedding Essential hybrid mattress. It's a no-frills hybrid that’s perfect for back and stomach sleepers, all at a price that won’t break the bank.

We’d never guess the Brooklyn Bedding Essential Hybrid Mattress came in a box if we hadn’t actually, you know, unboxed it ourselves. The setup process was breezy and the mattress felt supportive yet soft enough to help you doze off. It's made from two layers of high-density foam, followed by an 8-inch section of individually wrapped coils, and then another layer of foam for excellent pressure relief and support. We think this three-punch combo makes the mattress ideal for back and side sleepers. Plus, the quilted cotton/polyester blend cover adds a touch of softness right from the get-go.

It’s also one of the top options for staying cool, with coils and thinner foam that allows for plenty of airflow, unlike foam-only mattresses, which can often trap body heat. With free shipping and a straightforward setup (you can basically just slap it on your bed frame), the Brooklyn Bedding Essential Hybrid Mattress is a no-brainer.

Bear

Bear Original Mattress

$699

Bear

Pros & Cons

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Pros

• Exceptional cooling capabilities
• Firm support, ideal for back sleepers
• Lifetime warranty
• Excellent motion control

Cons

• May not be as durable as competitors
• Edge support could be better
• May be too firm for side sleepers

If you or your bedmate tend to get sweaty (when you don’t want to be), go with the Bear Original Memory Foam Mattress. It’s an all-foam mattress with cooling gel memory foam and open-cell construction, so you sleep cooler than the flip side of your pillow.

When we first set out to find the best cheap mattresses, we have to admit we were a little afraid of what we’d actually find in the memory foam department. Memory foam mattresses get a bad rap for trapping heat, and we assumed most budget mattresses would skimp on the cooling features. (We were wrong.) The Bear Original Memory Foam Mattress was, in fact, a heavy hitter in the cooling department during our tests. The graphite gel-infused memory foam layer utilizes graphite particles to absorb and dissipate body heat, so you stay cool throughout the night.

The high-density supportive foam gives the mattress a firm feel that we like for back sleepers or anyone experiencing back pain. You can opt to add the Celliant cover, which is designed to promote recovery and enhance cooling through a process involving infrared energy conversion (we’ll spare you the details). With free shipping, a lifetime warranty, and a straightforward setup, it’s hard to find a better deal for a high-tech cooling mattress that’ll keep you from sweating the bed.

Emma

Emma Hybrid Cooling Comfort Mattress

$769

Emma

Pros & Cons

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Pros

• Excellent motion isolation
• Great cooling capabilities
• Zoned support system
• 365-night trial period

Cons

• Shorter warranty than some competitors
• Edge support could be better
• May be too firm for side sleepers

The Emma Hybrid Comfort Mattress is a firm, supportive hybrid with excellent motion isolation—i.e. you won’t be able to tell when your bedmate moves—and cooling, making it perfect for couples sharing a bed. Its combination of foam and pocket springs provides the right amount of support and bounce for sleep and sex.

Lest we ever forget that Succession’s own Roman Roy was dressed in Walmart’s best, we’re here to remind you that price and quality are not always at odds. It’s true in this instance too. The Emma Hybrid Comfort Mattress makes it an obvious win for couples looking to stretch their pennies. The combination of airy open-cell foam layers and individually wrapped coils makes your Netflix and chill sesh so much cooler. Plus, the mattress's motion isolation capabilities mean you won't be disturbed by your partner's movements, which is a huge plus for light sleepers.

The firm mattress is ideally supportive for back and stomach sleepers, featuring zoned support for targeted firmness where you need it most without causing stress in sensitive areas. We think the Emma Hybrid Comfort's 365-night trial and 10-year warranty make it an unbeatable value.

Silk & Snow

Silk & Snow Memory Foam Mattress

$575

Silk and Snow

Pros & Cons

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Pros

• Excellent support for back and stomach sleepers
• Great responsiveness
• Long sleep trial
• Antimicrobial cover

Cons

• Motion isolation is lacking
• Not as cooling as some competitors
• May be too firm for side sleepers

If you are a back or stomach sleeper (or a combo of these), a firmer option, like the Silk & Snow Memory Foam Mattress, is key for supporting your pelvis and reducing back pain. Made from all foam, it delivers excellent support without sinking, so your spine stays aligned and your chiropractor stops with all the disappointed heavy sighs.

The Silk & Snow Memory Foam Mattress measured up well in our tests for firm support and responsiveness. Rated at a firm 7.5/10, we feel this mattress had a very “on top of bed feel” that makes it easy to move around without feeling stuck.

Another one of Silk & Snow's unique selling points is an antibacterial cover—ideal for those with allergies—which helps prevent nasties like dust mites, mold, fungi, and bacteria that trigger symptoms like sneezing, snoring, and breathing troubles that leave you wiped the next day. Bonus: It also keeps smells, stains, and dirt away so the mattress stays fresh and lasts longer.

Siena

Siena Memory Foam Mattress

$399

Siena

Pros & Cons

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Pros

• Excellent support for back and stomach sleepers
• Minimal sinkage
• Soft, thick cover
• Good edge support

Cons

• Longer time to fully form and take shape
• Not as cooling as some competitors
• Not ideal for sleepers over 250 pounds

Back pain comes for all of us, and our only job is to keep it at bay for as long as possible. That could mean you start stretching daily, learn to lift with your legs, or buying a mattress that’ll keep your spine aligned. We find that firmer beds are better for alleviating back pain, and one of the best is Siena Original’s memory foam mattress. We give this one props for its excellent support, as well as its minimal sinkage so your body stays as straight as a ruler while you’re snoozing.

In our testing, we found the Siena Original Memory Foam Mattress to be a solid choice for back pain sufferers, with a firmness of 7/10. Its five layers of memory foam (including two layers of gel memory foam for extra pressure relief), stack up to give you the necessary support to prevent back pain, which you may feel after being swallowed by a too-soft mattress. While our top rec for this mattress goes to back sleepers, our testers agree the Siena Original is an on-point option for stomach sleepers who need firm support to keep their pelvis lifted. We noticed minimal sinkage, which is great for sleepers under 250 pounds who need to stay propped up.

Although the Siena is on the firm side, its cover is soft and thick without compromising support. Once out of the box, we felt the mattress took a bit longer to fully form and take shape, but its straightforward design and affordable price point make it a smart choice if you’re dealing with back pain. Plus, with free shipping and returns, it's a risk-free investment in your sleep health.

Here’s how the best cheap mattresses stack up in terms of price (all for a queen-sized mattress, FYI).

We are the collective Benoit Blanc of mattress testing, leaving no stone unturned and slipping into heavy Southern drawls when it just feels right. Our team of writers and certified sleep science coaches that we poll have tried over 500 mattresses and sleep products, all in the name of better sleep. First, we give each mattress a "rest test," which is basically a fancy way of saying we nap on it to see how it feels. But we don't stop there. We use tools like pressure maps and thermal guns to measure how well the mattress relieves pressure, controls temperature, and supports different sleep styles. This hands-on process gives us a 360-degree picture of the mattress's comfort and performance.

But we don't just rely on our own experiences. We back up our findings with the latest peer-reviewed research and consult a network of physical therapists, doctors, and other medical experts to verify any health claims. This means if we say a mattress can help with back pain, you can trust that we've done our homework. Once all the testing and expert reviews are in, we present our insights clearly and concisely, making it easier for you to find the perfect mattress. So, whether you're a side sleeper, back sleeper, or a toss-and-turner, we've got you covered.

What Makes a Mattress More Affordable

So, what makes a mattress easier on the wallet? It all boils down to a few key factors.

So TL;DR: If you want the best cheap mattress without compromises, keep an eye on the materials, the brand's business model, and how long you can expect it to last.

Consider your sleeping position and the mattress type when looking for an affordable mattress.

Finding a budget-friendly mattress doesn't mean you have to sacrifice your z’s, so long as you know what to look for.

How to Keep an Affordable Mattress Comfortable Longer

Keeping your budget-friendly mattress comfy for the long haul doesn't have to be a hassle, just use these simple tips to help extend its lifespan:

• Using a Mattress Topper: Adding a mattress topper can make your mattress feel more comfortable and luxurious. Toppers come in different materials like memory foam, latex, and down, each with their own benefits. Memory foam toppers provide excellent pressure relief, while latex toppers are durable and resist dust mites and mold.
• Rotating the Mattress Often: Make sure to rotate your mattress every three to six months to prevent sagging and ensure even wear. This simple step can greatly extend the life of your mattress and help it remain comfortable and supportive.
• Proper Cleaning and Maintenance: Regularly cleaning your mattress will make it last longer. Vacuum it, clean any stains, and use a mattress protector to keep it fresh and free from allergens, which will create a healthier sleep environment.
• Strategic Placement: We’ll be real here: Sometimes, you just need a good enough mattress in your guest room that won’t break the bank. If that’s why you’re shopping for a cheap mattress, we see you, we hear you, and any of our suggestions will meet the standards of your visiting Boomer parents.
• Proper Support: Keep your mattress well-supported. If your bed frame or box spring is sagging, it can cause your mattress to sag, too, making it less comfortable and reducing its lifespan. Consider using a platform bed or a slatted bed frame for better support.

Rotating the mattress and using covers and toppers can ensure your mattress stays supportive and responsive.

Who Shouldn't Buy a Cheap Mattress?

While we firmly believe you can find the best possible mattress at every price point, the fact remains that cheap mattresses are often cheap for a reason. That's not to dissuade you from buying one—sometimes, you just need a solid mattress for under a grand—but if you fit any of these descriptions, a more luxe mattress may be in your best interests.

• People with chronic pain: If you live with regular back or hip pain (beyond waking up sore after a tough workout), a cheap mattress may worsen those aches. Budget mattresses can skimp on support, which can misalign your spine and limit pressure relief.
• People who want a long-term investment: Hate to break it to you, but most of the time, a cheap mattress isn't meant to last for years and years. A budget mattress is perfect for short- to medium-term needs (think: a few years or so), but if you truly want to avoid mattress shopping for the next decade, it's probably best to spend more now.
• Light sleepers: Cheap mattresses often score low in our motion transfer tests. If you've been known to awaken every time your partner stirs or your dog (adorably) chases tennis balls in their dreams, a more expensive mattress is likely to have better motion isolation.