Jump to:
- The quick list
- 1. Best overall
- 2. Best memory foam
- 3. Best side sleeper
- 4. Best firm
- 5. Best affordable
- 6. Pressure relief
- 7. Budget cooling
- 8. Best organic
- 9. Best for couples
- 10. Best cooling
- 11. Best latex
- 12. Best on Amazon
- How we test
Convenient, cost-effective and as high-quality as a store-bought bed — the best mattresses in a box offer a comparable level of comfort and support to traditional flat mattresses at an (often) cheaper price. Still need convincing? Our team of expert mattress testers and sleep coaches slept on dozens of top-rated mattresses-in-a-box in order to hand-pick our 12 favorites, with several of us experiencing the most restful night’s sleep as a result.
After comparing test notes and data, the DreamCloud Hybrid is our top bed-in-a-box pick. It also ranks highly in our overall best mattress guide, offering a comparable level of comfort and support to the Saatva Classic (which we deem to be the best bed in the world) at a more affordable price. What’s more, you’ll still get a 1-year trial, a lifetime warranty, and a hotel-quality look and feel.
The 11 other entries span different sleep needs and budgets, but monthly mattress sales mean you'll rarely have to pay full price. You can expect to pay around $1,100 or less for a good quality queen-size boxed mattress, with some of our picks on this list costing less than $500 for a queen. That’s because the money saved on bricks and mortar stores trickles down to the consumer, which means better value for money.
Ready to buy your dream bed? Here are our top recommendations for this year's best mattresses in a box…
Best mattress in a box: The quick list
If you're short on time, here's an overview of our top recommendations for this year's best mattress in a box, based on our in-house testing and user review analysis.
1. The DreamCloud
Price: From $449 (MSRP $839)
Trial period: 365 nights
Warranty: Lifetime
The DreamCloud hybrid mattress in a box delivers a dreamy hotel bed feel at a remarkable price – along with a one-year sleep trial and a forever warranty. You'll enjoy plenty of relief from your back pain as the DreamCloud's firmer feel and subtle pressure relief work together to keep you well-supported and at ease. Lightweight side sleepers may find it too unyielding, so we'd recommend the softer Helix Midnight Luxe (#3) for them instead.
Read more below
2. Nectar Memory Foam
Price: from $359 (MSRP $699)
Trial period: 365 nights
Warranty: Lifetime
The all-foam Nectar Mattress is especially comfortable for back and front sleeping, though many side sleepers should benefit from its support and pressure relief. It's a fantastic value, too with a starting sale price of just $359 and industry-leading perks like a one-year home trial and a lifetime warranty. While the Nectar sleeps cool for a foam bed, hot sleepers should pick the Cocoon Chill (#7) for better cooling at a similar price.
Read more below
3. Helix Midnight Luxe Hybrid
Price: From $1,099 (MSRP $1,373)
Trial period: 100 nights
Warranty: 15 years
Side sleepers, this is the bed-in-a-box for you. The Helix Midnight Luxe boasts impressive pressure relief around the knees, hips, and shoulders –all key impact points when sleeping on your side – along with enhanced lumbar support to keep you well aligned. It's also a great choice for couples thanks to its excellent motion isolation. However, we found the edge support lacking during our tests so if that's a priority to you, consider the WinkBed (#4).
Read more below
4. The WinkBed
Price: From $849 (MSRP $1,149)
Trial period: 120 nights
Warranty: Lifetime
The WinkBed comes in four firmness levels - Soft, Luxury Firm, Firm, and Plus. The Firm is designed for most adults who like to sleep on their backs or stomachs, and the Plus is a specially-designed bed made for sleepers over 250lbs. Edge support is excellent here, as is motion isolation. However, hot sleepers won't find the relief they would from a specialist model like the GhostBed Luxe (#10).
Read more below
5. Siena Mattress
Price: From $199 (MSRP $399)
Trial period: 180 nights
Warranty: 10 years
The Siena is proof that a cheap bed-in-a-box doesn't have to be poor quality. (It helps that it's a sibling brand of Nectar and DreamCloud, which are also on this list.) Our testers rate it best for back and stomach sleeping – it's firmer than advertised. That said, dedicated side sleepers may prefer the Helix (#3) for more cushioned support. Still, at under $400 for a queen, this boxed mattress performs well beyond its budget price tag.
Read more below
6. The Purple Mattress
Price: From $799 (MSRP $999)
Trial period: 100 nights
Warranty: 10 years
Purple is a pioneer in the boxed mattress industry. The Purple Original is still the best at easing general aches and pains thanks to the brand's proprietary GelGrid Tech that contours your curves as you move around. This grid also helps the mattress maintain a comfortable sleeping temperature – but it doesn't have the same cooling prowess as the GhostBed Luxe (#10). Regular Purple mattress sales take $200 to $400 off the MSRP, and you'll have 100 nights to try it at home risk-free.
Read more below
Expand list...
7. Cocoon Chill Mattress
Price: From $399 (MSRP $619)
Trial period: 100 nights
Warranty: 10 years
The Cocoon Chill is similar to the Nectar (#2) in performance and value for money, but the former's Phase Change Material makes it a better choice for hot sleepers seeking a mattress to effectively wick away heat and sweat. It's our top choice for a boxed cooling mattress on a budget but if you have the cash to splash for the GhostBed Luxe (#10), we'd suggest going with that one if you have severe night sweats.
Read more below
8. Avocado Green Mattress
Price: From $1,259 (MSRP $1,399)
Trial period: 365 nights
Warranty: 25 years
The Avocado Green comes in three comfort levels, with the firm as the standard option. (Medium and plush cost extra.) Avocado uses dense Dunlop latex, which contributes to its very supportive feel (and higher cost). Avocado also includes a full year to trial it at home, along with a 25-year warranty. Regular sales shave 10% to 20% off the MSRP, with higher discounts reserved for pricier models.
Read more below
9. Leesa Sapira Hybrid
Price: From $1,199 (MSRP $1,349)
Trial period: 100 nights
Warranty: 10 years
The Leesa Sapira Hybrid has a medium bed feel and a responsive surface – perfect for combi side/back sleepers. It also absorbs motion extremely well so you and your partner don't have to worry about waking each other with your movements. Just be mindful of the less-than-stellar edge support – the WinkBed (#4) is a better performer in that area.
Read more below
10. GhostBed Luxe
Price: From $1,298 (MSRP $2,595)
Trial period: 101 nights
Warranty: 25 years
The GhostBed Luxe is loaded with cooling tech to help hot sleepers battle night sweats, from a cool-to-the-touch cover to thermo-sensitive foam that adapts to your body temperature throughout the night. If you want something firmer and more affordable, we'd recommend the Cocoon by Sealy Chill Memory Foam (#7) mattress in a box. But if you're dealing with intense night sweats and hot flashes, stick with the GhostBed Luxe. You'll get a 101-night trial and 25-year warranty.
Read more below
11. Awara Natural Hybrid Mattress
Price: From $649 (MSRP $1,299)
Trial period: 365 nights
Warranty: Lifetime
Similar in feel to the standard Avocado Green (#7), the Awara Natural Hybrid combines Dunlop latex with 8-inch coils for a near-weightless sensation that'll appeal to most sleepers who like a firmer, less responsive sleep surface. It looks and feels much more luxurious than its mid-range price suggests. As far as latex mattress values go, it doesn't get better than this.
Read more below
12. Linenspa Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress
Price: From $119.99
Trial period: N/A
Warranty: 10 years
If the Siena (#5) is out of your price range, head to Amazon and pick up this Linenspa hybrid for less than $250 for a queen. This is a bonafide budget buy, so it's best reserved for kids, smaller adults, and temporary use. Plus, Amazon offers free Prime 2-day shipping. Just know that there's no proper trial period included, but you will get a 10-year warranty.
Read more below
The best mattress in a box you can buy today
Why you can trust Tom's Guide Our writers and editors spend hours analyzing and reviewing products, services, and apps to help find what's best for you. Find out more about how we test, analyze, and rate.
Recent updates
After analyzing our test data, we've reordered our best mattress in a box rankings. The DreamCloud now tops our list thanks to its balanced performance vs affordable price. New to our rankings are the Helix Midnight Luxe, The WinkBed, Leesa Sapira, and the Linenspa Memory Foam Hybrid. We're currently testing the Royal Puffy, Beautyrest Harmony Lux, and the Emma Hybrid Cooling Elite.
Best mattress in a box overall
1. DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid Mattress
This best mattress-in-a-box overall looks and feels like hotel bed
Specifications
Type: Hybrid
Materials: Memory foam, other foams, coils
Firmness (1-10): 6.5 (we rate 8)
Height: 12"
Trial: 365 nights
Warranty: Lifetime
Price bracket: Mid-range
Reasons to buy
+ Luxury bed for an affordable price Supportive but pressure relieving Breathable and sleeps cool
Reasons to avoid
- Too firm for some lighter people Edge support could be better
Buy it if
✅ You want a 5-star mattress at a 3-star price: Don't let the DreamCloud's boxed bed status and mid-range price fool you. We often recommend it as an alternative to the Saatva Classic if you want a luxury bed on a budget.
✅ Back or hip pain disrupts your sleep: The DreamCloud's combo of adaptive foam and wrapped innersprings relieves pressure from your lower back and hips whilst promoting proper alignment, resulting in diminished pain in those areas.
✅ You're on the verge of sleep divorce: The DreamCloud does an exceptional job of diminishing most movements so you and your partner can peacefully share a bed.
Don't buy it if
❌ You're a smaller side sleeper: The DreamCloud has a firmer feel than advertised. Although our average-sized side-sleeping tester eventually felt comfortable after a brief break-in period, not everyone is so patient.
❌ You need strong edge support: If you're hindered by severe mobility issues, you may find the DreamCloud's edges to be lacking. The same also applies if you're one to sprawl out at night.
❌ You want to sink into your bed: Though the DreamCloud has upper foam layers, you won't experience the deep pressure relief you would with a Nectar (#3) or Purple (#5).
The bottom line
🔎The DreamCloud mattressdoesn't sacrifice value for quality. Back pain sufferers in particular will feel at ease thanks to the contouring upper foams and sturdy coil base. Back and stomach sleepers will appreciate the all-over support but some side sleepers might crave something more plush from the get-go.
The DreamCloud is more than just the best mattress-in-a-box overall – we also consider it one of the best mattresses for back pain. It ranks high in our best hybrid mattress list, too.
What it's like to sleep on: review notes
We slept on a twin DreamCloud for three weeks. DreamCloud rates its mattress a 6.5 out of 10 on the mattress firmness scale but during our tests, we found it firmer than that – around an 8.
It offers excellent hip and back support and should be suitable for many back pain sufferers. Most body types and sleep positions will feel supportive although some side sleepers (and especially those under 130lb) might find it a bit too firm. If that's you, consider the softer Helix Midnight Luxe (#2), which is made specifically for side sleeping.
At the top of the mattress, you'll find thick layers of foam, which contour comfortably around your joints and relieve pressure. Beneath these is a tier of springs that amp up the support and create space for air to circulate within the mattress. (We found the DreamCloud mattress regulated temperature well, too.)Our panel of volunteers – who deal with everything from lower back pain to the occasional "dead hip" – indulged in this balanced bed feel and experienced diminished pain in those areas.
If you share a bed, the DreamCloud's high level of motion isolation will allow you and your sleeping partner to enjoy peaceful nights together. On the flip side, edge support could be better. Keep that in mind if you need to push off the side of your bed when getting up or down.
We often recommend the DreamCloud for those who want the hotel-quality look and feel of a Saatva innerspring hybrid mattress at a lower price point. Our testers were impressed by the DreamCloud's excellent build quality, and some long-time DreamCloud customers claim to still sleep comfortably on their bed years after purchase.
Tip from our testers: "If you're a heavier back or side sleeper, or just someone who likes the feel of a firmer mattress, the DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid Mattress is sure to satisfy. Our pain-laden sleepers found instant relief when resting on this hybrid. A subtle give in the hips and lower lumbar provided marked relief from tension in those areas."
Price, trials, warranty
As a rule, hybrids tend to cost more than all-foam mattresses, especially luxe-feeling ones like the DreamCloud, but this mattress consistently comes in at a mid to lower mid-range price, depending on when you buy. It stands out for undercutting most of the competition and delivering excellent value for money, too.
Because it's from the same parent company as the Nectar (also on this list), it comes with the same outstanding extras. You'll have a year to try it out before fully committing, and it's backed by a Forever warranty.
- Read more: DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid mattress review
DreamCloud Mattress:Was from $839 now $419 at DreamCloud
The DreamCloud is never sold at full price, and currently, there's up to 50% off thanks to a summer sale. That drops a queen to just $665. It's of the best DreamCloud deals we've recorded, and barring any Labor Day surprises this sale will hold steady. Adding to that incredible value for money is a lifetime warranty and a 365-night trial.
Best memory foam mattress in a box
2. Nectar Memory Foam Mattress
The best mattress in a box for foam comfort on a budget
Specifications
Type: All-foam
Materials: Memory foam, other foams
Firmness (1-10): 6.5
Height: 12"
Trial: 365 days
Warranty: Lifetime
Price bracket: Lower-mid range
Reasons to buy
+ Outstanding value for money Balanced for side and back sleeping Long trial and warranty
Reasons to avoid
- Takes a while to expand Larger sleepers may find it too soft
Buy it if
✅ You're on a budget: The Nectar isn't the cheapest mattress on this list (that would be its sibling, the Siena, at #4), but at a lower mid-range price point it's an incredible value, especially once you factor in the extras.
✅ You want a truly balanced bed feel: With a firmness rating between 6.5 and 7 (out of 10), the medium-firm Nectar will appeal to many side and back sleepers who want to comfortably sink into their mattress without sacrificing support.
✅ You share a bed: Whether you bed share with your partner, kids, or pets, the Nectar's superb motion isolation will leave you largely unbothered by their movements (and vice versa).
Don't buy it if
❌ You're a very hot sleeper: While the Nectar sleeps cooler than expected for a full-foam bed, a specialty cooling model like the similarly-priced Cocoon Chill (#6) or the premium Ghostbed Luxe (#9) will be a better fit if night sweats keep you up at night.
❌ You're over 230lbs: The Nectar may not provide enough support for heavier bodies. Consider a sturdier hybrid like the DreamCloud (#1), especially if you sleep on your back.
❌ You don't want a mattress with fiberglass: Removing the cover from the Nectar could potentially expose you to fiberglass, a common flame retardant that can potentially cause skin or breathing allergies. The Avocado Green (#7) doesn't contain fiberglass.
The bottom line
🔎The Nectar Mattresscontinues to be an excellent value for money if you're seeking a well-balanced foam bed-in-a-box for side and back sleeping. Our testers rated it highly for motion isolation and were impressed by the top cover's moisture-wicking properties. Although free bedding is no longer standard, you'll still get a full year to try it out and a limited lifetime warranty.
Nectar's popular five-layer all-foam mattress hits that sweet spot between value and performance. In short, you're getting a superbly comfortable and good-quality mattress for an extremely reasonable price.
What it's like to sleep on: Review notes
We tested this 12-inch tall, all-foam mattress for two months and loved it. The medium-firm memory foam offers a fantastic balance of softness and firmness, providing luxury comfort without the feeling of sinking into the mattress.When our reviewers lay down, the mattress contoured to their bodies, providing full, tailored support and helping align their spines, while cushioning pressure points like shoulders and hips. We also noticed good edge support and very little motion transfer, making it a particularly good choice for couples.
Let's take a closer look at the design. At the top you'll find a quilted cover, which can be removed but, annoyingly, isn't suitable for machine washing. Next up, there's a layer of gel-infused memory foam. The gel is to help regulate temperature, as memory foam can trap body heat. We found it worked well on this front – none of our testers found they overheated on this mattress (although if you know you sleep hot, you should check out the GhostBed below). Underneath this, you'll find a layer of hi-core memory foam for extra support so you don’t sink too far into the mattress. Finally, a base layer helps stabilize the sleeper, and a bottom mattress cover keeps it from slipping on your bed frame or floor.
Tip from our testers:"[The Nectar] is one of the firmer memory foam mattresses we've tested, but we found it delivered an excellent balance of softness and support. You won't sink too far in, but there's enough contouring to comfortably cushion your joints. We think it offers a good middle-ground for most sleepers, but do factor in personal preference – some heavier people, as well as back and stomach sleepers, might prefer a firmer option."
Price, trial and warranty
Where the Nectar Memory Foam mattress really stands out is value for money. You can ignore that MSRP, because these beds are never sold at full price; a queen will typically set you back around $649 after an evergreen 40% off sale. That's considerably cheaper than rivals Casper and Purple. Add to that a generous one-year trial period to decide whether it's right for you and a lifetime warranty to back up your purchase. Nectar no longer offers free sheets and pillows in favor of a lower overall price, but you can add a bedding bundle at an extraordinary discount.
When it comes to sheer value for money, we think the Nectar is the best memory foam mattress you can buy.You'll just need to be prepared to wait a little longer than usual to actually sleep on it – our test model took 48 hours to fully expand.
- Read more: Nectar mattress review
Nectar Memory Foam Mattress: Was from $699 now $499 at Nectar
Head to Nectar for up to 40% off, taking the queen-size Original down to just $649 at Nectar. This is the new evergreen Nectar mattress sale, and this is $30 cheaper than we've seen during recent events – but keep an eye out for random flash sales that could yield even stronger markdowns. You'll get a 365-night trial with the Nectar Mattress, plus a forever warranty and free shipping and returns.
Best mattress in a box for side sleepers
3. Helix Midnight Luxe mattress
The best bed-in-a-box for comfy side sleeping
Specifications
Type: Hybrid
Materials: Memory foam, coils, other foams
Firmness (1-10): 6
Height: 13.5"
Trial: 100 days
Warranty: 10 years
Price bracket: Premium
Reasons to buy
+ Loads of pressure relief Isolates motion extremely well Also supportive for back sleeping
Reasons to avoid
- Lacks side carry handles Passable (not amazing) edge support
Buy it if
✅ You're a dedicated side sleeper:A plush pillow-top and multiple comfort foam layers provide plenty of pressure relief, and the reinforced springs in the middle of the bed keep everything properly aligned.
✅ You also like to sleep on your back: Like to flip-flop between your sides and your back? No problem. The Midnight Luxe's medium-firm bed feel will keep you supported, either way. (It also makes it easier to share a bed with someone.)
✅ You share a bed: Restless partner? Overzealous pet? The Helix Midnight Luxe dampens movement so well, you'll feel like you're sleeping solo.
Don't buy it if
❌You sleep on your stomach:This side sleeper mattress is back sleeper-friendly, but stomach sleepers won't find it firm enough for their tastes. The WinkBed and Avocado are just a couple of other mattresses on this list that stomach sleepers should check out.
❌ You like to sit on the edge of your bed: The edge support isn't bad here, but we wouldn't call it amazing, either. We think the pillow-top hinders this bed's ability to offer a sturdy perimeter you can confidently sit on.
❌ You're on a budget: The Helix Midnight Luxe is a premium mattress, even when it's on sale. You could opt for the Helix Midnight for less, but you'll lose out on the enhanced lumbar support and plush pillow-top.
The bottom line
🔎The Helix Midnightis our favorite side sleeper mattress. As a hybrid, it doesn't provide the profound sink-in sensation of a full-foam bed, but its upper memory foam layers offer gentle contouring along the shoulders, hips, and knees – key pressure points that affect side sleepers most. The Midnight also stands out for its minimal motion transfer, making it a good choice for couples and families.
The Helix Midnight Luxe dethrones the Helix Midnight Classic as our favorite mattress for side sleepers. While the former is certainly a great bed in its own right, the Luxe ups the ante with a plush pillow-top and enhanced lumbar support – elements that translate to an even comfier sleep experience. There's a longer warranty included, too.
What it's like to sleep on: Review notes
Our lead tester slept on a queen-size Helix Midnight Luxe for seven weeks. Helix rates it a 5-6 (out of 10) on the firmness scale. We think it's a solid 6 out of 10, a true medium-firm mattress.
The Midnight Luxe's premium pillow-top and ultra-responsive memory foam layers yield incredible pressure relief, whilst the steel coils (reinforced in the center for alignment) prevent sleepers from sinking too deep. Our lead tester was able to avoid the 'dead hip' she's prone to developing when resting on her side for too long, and her heavier back-sleeping partner felt comfortable and supported. Thus, we're also inclined to recommend it for back sleepers who don't want a decidedly firm bed.
Our lead tester is a restless sleeper who shares a bed with her partner, their two children, and their cat – but everyone was able to sleep peacefully thanks to the Midnight Luxe's superb motion isolation. (Our objective tests revealed the same results. This bed just eats up movement.)
Although our testers didn't overheat on this mattress, hot sleepers may want to consider an upgrade to the GlacioTex cooling Pillow Top cover for an extra $249 across all mattress sizes. This specialty material is cool to the touch, but it yields a slick surface that could make dressing your bed a hassle.
As with the Helix Midnight Classic, edge support is passable here – but if edge support is a priority for you due to mobility issues, we recommend taking a look at the Awara further down this list.
Tip from our testers: "The Helix Midnight Luxe provides outstanding pressure relief, crafted specifically for side sleepers. We found it to be both comfortable and supportive enough for back sleepers too. The inclusion of a plush, pillow top and enhanced zoned lumbar support make it worth the price hike from the Helix Midnight. However, stomach sleepers will likely find this mattress too soft to adequately support their spine."
Price, trial, warranty
Regular Helix mattress sales cut between 20% and 25% off, with larger markdowns common around major shopping holidays. Still, you'll never have to worry about buying this mattress at list price. You have 100 nights to test it out. Better yet, Helix Luxe mattresses come with a 15-year warranty (versus 10 years for the Classic models.) You'll often be able to score a pair of free pillows with purchase, too.
- Read more: Helix Midnight Luxe mattress review
Helix Midnight Luxe mattress: Was from $1,373 now $961.63 at Helix Sleep
The Helix Midnight Luxe is now 30% off, which means a queen is available for $1,661.66 (was $2,373), plus two free pillows. That's the lowest price we've ever seen on this bed. It comes with a free pair of pillows, too. This is an incredibly strong Helix mattress sale, beaten only by the 32% offer we saw during the Prime Day sales in July.
Best firm mattress in a box
4. The WinkBed
This popular bed-in-a-box is our favorite firm mattress overall
Specifications
Type: Hybrid
Materials: Coils, memory foam, other foams
Firmness (1-10): 4.5, 6.5, 7.5, or 8
Height: 10"
Trial: 120 days
Warranty: Lifetime
Price bracket: Upper-mid / premium (for the Plus)
Reasons to buy
+ 4 comfort levels (2 of them firm) Excellent edge support Effectively limits most movements
Reasons to avoid
- WinkBed Plus cost extra Costs $49 to send it back
Buy it if
✅ You want a firm (or very firm) mattress: The WinkBed comes in four comfort levels, with two of those options skewing firm.
✅ You weigh over 230lbs: We rate the WinkBed Plus as. one of the best mattresses for heavy people because of its ultra-supportive design. Although it's more expensive than the standard WinkBed, it's not cost-prohibitive for most.
✅ Edge support is a priority: Whether you like to sprawl out or have to sit up before getting in or out of bed, the WinkBed's edge support won't let you down.
Don't buy it if
❌ You overheat...a lot: The WinkBed is temperature-neutral – which should be fine for most people. However, for severe night sweats, take a look at the Ghostbed Luxe elsewhere on this list.
❌ You want more time to test drive it: A 120-night trial is above average, but you'll get a whole year with the DreamCloud (at #1) – and for less money, too.
❌ You don't want to pay for returns: The WinkBed is one of the few online sleep brands that charges a return fee (albeit minimal).
The bottom line
🔎 The WinkBed mattressis firm, but not totally unyielding. With four firmness levels to choose from, you can dictate how solid you want your sleep surface to be. Either way, you'll benefit from zoned support to keep your back aligned and strong edges you can sleep or sit on without fear.
The WinkBed comes in multiple comfort levels, but if you're looking for the very best firm mattress, then this is it. There's also a Plus version, which is the firmest of the bunch designed for heavy sleepers.
What it's like to sleep on: Review notes
We slept on a queen WinkBed in Luxury Firm, which we rate a 6-7 (out of 10) on the firmness scale, depending on your body weight. This is the most popular WinkBed, designed for all sleepers. The Firm WinkBed (7.5) is geared toward back and stomach sleepers who want to sleep 'on' their bed, whilst the Soft WinkBed (4.5) is designed for side sleepers.
There's also the WinkBed Plus, rated an 8 out of 10 on the firmness scale. This is a specially-made mattress for heavy people, although smaller sleepers who like a very firm bed should get on with it well. (Note that it'll feel more like a Luxury Firm bed for sleepers over 300lbs, according to the brand.)
The edge support was excellent for our Luxury Firm WinkBed, so you're free to use as much of your sleep surface as you want. Motion isolation was superb, as well – good news for co-sleepers. Overall, our WinkBed slept temperature-neutral, but hot sleepers may fare better with a specialty cooling mattress.
The WinkBed is also one of our top choices for back pain thanks to its enhanced lumbar support (similar to the Helix Midnight Luxe above). This is standard with all WinkBed models, along with a breathable Tencel cover, but there are variations in design when you get to the WinkBed Plus. That features high-density anti-sag foam, 2.5 inches of latex foam, and stronger coils with five zones of support (instead of three). The standard WinkBed has a dual-layer Euro pillow top with gel-infused foam.
Tip from our testers: "Beware that comfort and support will vary depending on body type and sleep position, so take time to pick the right firmness level for your needs. Lighter-weight stomach sleepers may find the Luxury Firm WinkBed too firm for a comfortable sink-in feeling, while heavier back sleepers and stomach sleepers may prefer the Firm or WinkBed Plus to feel fully supported."
Price, trial, warranty
Ignore the countdown banners because the WinkBed is always on sale for $300 off. (Note that the WinkBed Plus costs $200 more due to its different design and materials.) All purchases comes with a 120-night trial and a lifetime warranty. Note that a $49 exchange fee applies if you decide to send it back.
- Read more: The WinkBed mattress review
The WinkBed mattress:Was from$1,149now $849 at WinkBed
This is WinkBed's standard offer, but it's still a solid value for a hotel-quality hybrid bed-in-a-box. A queen size sells for $1,499 (from $1,799) for the firm version and $1,699 (from $1,999) for the WinkBed Plus. A 120-night trial and a lifetime warranty are included, but you'll be on the hook for a $49 return fee if you choose to send it back.
Best affordable bed-in-a-box
5. Siena Memory Foam Mattress in a box
The best budget bed in a box – a king costs $499
Specifications
Type: Memory foam
Materials: Gel memory foam, foam
Firmnes: 6.5 (we rate it as a 9 so very firm)
Depth: 10”
Trial: 180 nights
Warranty: 10 years
Price bracket: Budget
Reasons to buy
+ Excellent value Good warranty for a cheap bed Sleeps cool for a foam mattress
Reasons to avoid
- Much firmer than listed May not be for the long-haul
Buy it if
✅ You're on a strict budget: At under $500 for the largest size (king), the Siena is a bonafide budget buy if you're not willing or able to splash out the cash for something else – especially if this is meant for temporary or irregular use.
✅ You don't like the typical sinking sensation of memory foam: Granted, there's a break-in period involved but even after a month of sleeping on the Siena, our testers still found it much firmer than expected with minimal give. Back and stomach sleepers, take heed.
✅ You need top-notch motion isolation: The all-foam Siena absorbs most movement with ease. Consider this one if you share a bed with a fidgety partner or someone who operates on a different schedule than you do.
Don't buy it if
❌ You crave deep pressure relief: The Siena's pressure relief is subtle, but that may not be enough for side sleepers or those who need extra cushioning to alleviate back and joint pain.
❌ You're a hot sleeper: Since we felt like we were sleeping on top of the Siena rather than in it, we hardly broke a sweat. Still, this is an all-foam mattress and won't be as breathable as a hybrid or a specialty cooling model.
❌ You need a forever mattress: While we rated it well on initial durability, it may not have the lasting power of a hybrid like the DreamCloud (#1), which also boasts a lifetime warranty. (You'll get 10 years of coverage with the Siena.)
The bottom line
🔎The Siena Memory Foam mattressis proof that you don't have to shell out a lot of money for a quality mattress. Back and stomach sleepers will enjoy its outstanding support and subtle contouring, while couples and families will appreciate the low level of motion transfer. At this price, we strongly recommend it for a guest bed or a college dorm.
The Siena Mattress is the cheapest bed-in-a-box on our list, but performance-wise it holds its own among its higher-priced rivals – including its older sibling, the Nectar, which sits at the very top of this list.
What it's like to sleep on: review notes
When we called the Siena Mattress in for testing, we weren't expecting much from it. After all, how good can a cheap mattress in a box really be? Very good, is the answer, if it's made by the parent company behind the Nectar Mattress and the DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid, featured elsewhere in this guide. Our lead tester reviewed the Siena Memory Foam and was very impressed by how well-made it is considering the cheaper price.
We recommend the Siena Mattress for stomach and back sleepers because it's a very firm mattress – much firmer than Siena Sleep's rating of 6.5 out of 10 on the firmness scale; we rate it as a 9. That firmness ensures that you'll sleep on top of the mattress in both positions, which prevents your back and spine from dipping out of alignment and causing you lower back pain. Granted, you may need time to break it in, but even after a month of sleeping on it our testing panel still found it quite firm.
Of course, that does lead us to recommend that side sleepers look elsewhere in this guide. Check out the Helix Midnight instead. We feel the Siena is simply too firm for comfy side sleeping unless you are heavier in weight, so you'd need a firmer bed to support you and prevent sinking.
We were also surprised by how cool the Siena slept, which is unusual for a budget all-foam box bed. However, that could be due to our testers feeling like they were sleeping on top of the surface rather than in it, limiting the foam's ability to emit our body heat right back at us. Still, we suggest seeking out a specialty cooling mattress or even a hybrid if you struggle with overheating.
The edge support on the Siena Memory Foam Mattress in a box is also very strong for a cheap mattress in a box, so that means you can both sleep right up to each edge of your bed to maximize sleep space. You shouldn't have any issues getting in and out of bed, or when sitting on the edge to get dressed. More good news for couples is how the Siena absorbs motion well, so you shouldn't disturb each other too much if either of you are restless sleepers.
Tip from our testers:"If you're hoping to sink deeply into your foam mattress, you might be disappointed here. The Siena has a subtle cradling characteristic of a hybrid. Most stomach sleepers should be well supported along their hips, but some back and side sleepers may not find the pressure relief they need along their lumbar, shoulders, and hips right away."
Price, trial, warranty
The Siena is truly an excellent value for money and a great cheap bed in a box from a trusted name. It's perpetually $300 off, even during major shopping holidays. Still, at $399 for a queen-sized mattress after discount, we're not complaining much. The 180-night trial is also remarkable for this price point, while the 10-year warranty is standard (but still decent).
- Read more: Siena Memory Foam Mattress review
Siena Memory Foam Mattress: Was from $499 now $199 at Siena
A near-permanent 50% off sale makes the Siena Mattress the best box mattress for small budgets. With this discount a queen size Siena Memory Foam Mattress in a box drops down to $399 (was $799), while a king costs just $499. Rather unusually for cheap boxed mattresses, the Siena comes on a long 180-night trial and it has a 10-year warranty. That's great value for such a budget-friendly bed.
Best mattress in a box for pressure relief
6. The Purple Mattress
The best mattress in a box for easing painful joints
Specifications
Type: Gel hybrid memory foam
Material: Gel grid, foams,
Firmness (1-10): 6-7
Height: 9.25"
Trial: 100 days
Warranty: 10 years
Price bracket : Upper-mid
Reasons to buy
+ Springy, responsive sleep surface Excellent temperature regulation Very durable
Reasons to avoid
- Unusual sleep feel On the thinner side
Buy it if
✅ You're a side or back sleeper: Our testers were comfortable on their backs and sides with the Purple Original as their pressure points were sufficiently cushioned and their weight was evenly distributed in those positions.
✅ You're seeking targeted support and relief: The Purple GelFlex Grid is soft under your shoulders, hips, and knees yet firmer along your lumbar. This will ease your joint pain while keeping you well-aligned.
✅ You sleep warm: The Purple Original isn't a proper cooling mattress but it does regulate temperature well thanks to more than 2,800 open air channels within the GelFlex Grid and a stretchy knit cover.
Don't buy it if
❌ You favor your stomach: The medium to medium-firm comfort of the Purple Original may not be enough to support strict front sleepers. Look at the DreamCloud further up this list if that sounds like you.
❌ You want a 'traditional' bed feel: The squishy, adaptive sensation of the GelFlex Grid will elicit strong opinions. You'll either love it or despise it. If you fall into the latter camp, look for a memory foam mattress or a foam-heavy hybrid.
❌ You want a tall mattress: The Purple Original is 9.25 inches tall, which is quite shallow for a bed geared toward adults. This could be an inconvenience for larger individuals – and it also won't look as luxurious as loftier models.
The bottom line
🔎 The Purple Original mattress stands out for its innovative GelFlex Grid technology, which not only offers oodles of pressure relief but also adds an element of breathability to an otherwise foam-laden mattress. Yes, the unusual sleep feel may take some getting used to but if you allow yourself to simply enjoy it, your sore joints will be grateful for your patience.
The Purple mattress is one of the best-known mattresses in a box. Our favorite among them is the Purple Original Mattress, the brand's best-selling mattress and a boon for sleepers who deal with achy joints.
What it's like to sleep on: review notes
In our tests, our reviewers were seriously impressed with the Purple mattress. We loved the responsive, soft yet firm surface, and found this bed very comfortable and supportive to sleep on. It absorbed motion well and slept nice and cool, too. Based on a 10-point firmness scale, we rate it a 7. It's in line with Purple's self-assessment of 6-7, making it a medium-firm mattress. However, at under 10 inches deep, it's on the thinner side, and we wouldn't recommend it to sleepers over 300lb, who will likely find this bed too short or unyielding. Meanwhile, stomach sleepers may think it's too soft.
What sets this mattress apart from others on this list is its 'Purple Grid' technology – essentially a hyper-elastic, gel-like grid that's designed to cushion your body’s pressure points. Like memory foam, it'll mold to your body to provide tailored support right where you need it most, but unlike foam, the grid has an open design that allows air to circulate through it, helping ensure a cool night's sleep.
Our findings are backed up by other customer reviews. The Purple mattress has an excellent average score of 4.5 out of 5 from nearly 12,000 user reviews on the Purple website (March 2024). Many people report that it relieved their pressure points and eased joint pain, and lots of people say that since switching to the Purple mattress they've been sleeping far better than they were before.We think for couples, especially, and anyone who overheats at night, the flagship Purple mattress is one of the best mattress-in-a-box options out there. Read our Nectar vs Purple breakdown if you can't choose between the brands.
Tip from our testers: "When sleeping on the Purple mattress, our reviewers' pressure points - shoulders, hips and knees - were snuggly supported, with weight distributed easily. Side and back sleeping was super comfortable: if you’re a combination back and side sleeper, you’ll likely find the Purple mattress a great fit. If you’re a stomach sleeper, you still may appreciate the soft, firmness of the Purple mattress - but some may prefer a firmer option.Heavier back or stomach sleepers may prefer thePurple Hybrid mattress."
Price, trials, warranty
The Purple Original is among the brand's least expensive offerings, but compared to the rest of the market it sits in the upper mid-range price bracket. You can save some cash during Purple mattress deals, especially near major holidays. It comes with a 10-year warranty and a 100-night trial, which are rather ordinary for the cost.
- Read more: Purple mattress review
Best budget cooling mattress in a box
7. Cocoon by Sealy Chill Memory Foam mattress
The best mattress in a box for hot sleepers on a tight budget
Specifications
Type: All-foam
Materials: Memory foam, other foams
Firmness (1-10): 6
Height: 10"
Trial: 100 days
Warranty: 10 years
Price bracket: Lower-mid / mid-range
Reasons to buy
+ Cool for an all-foam bed Fully supportive Competitively priced
Reasons to avoid
- Not as cool as the GhostBed Edge support could be better
Buy it if
✅ You're prone to overheating: The Cocoon Chill's cooling cover does a fine job of drawing away body heat. For an all-foam mattress, our testers were surprised at how comfortably they slept.
✅ You want some of that memory foam 'hug': You won't find a deep sink here, but the Cocoon Chill does exhibit some of that traditional memory foam 'hug' that'll benefit your pressure points, especially when side sleeping.
✅ You need new bedding and pillows: Whether you're buying a new mattress size or you simply need to refresh your sheets and pillows, buying the Cocoon Chill will help you save time and money as you'll get those items included for free with purchase.
Don't buy it if
❌ Your night sweats are fierce: With the Cocoon Chill, you get what you pay for – and that's not a bad thing. However, there are better (albeit more expensive) options if you deal with severe overheating. For that, we recommend the GhostBed Luxe further down this list.
❌ You don't overheat at night: On the other hand, if you're hoping to spend even less on a memory foam mattress and don't have trouble keeping cool at night, the Nectar (#2) is slightly cheaper and comes with better perks.
❌ You weigh over 230lbs: At 10 inches tall, the all-foam Cocoon Chill should be comfy enough for small to average-sized individuals, but heavier sleepers may want to consider the 12-inch hybrid version of this mattress for extra support.
The bottom line
🔎The Cocoon by Sealy Chillisn't your typical cooling mattress, with an all-foam construction and a lower-than-average price. For most people who sleep warm, the Cocoon Chill's phase-change cover will be effective at preventing heat buildup. The free bedding bundle is a nice way to boost an already solid value.
The Cocoon Chill Memory Foam is one of the best cooling mattresses around, especially if you're on a budget. This mattress in a box is made by industry giant Sealy, and features a special, stretch-knit cover that's infused with advanced phase-change material.
What it's like to sleep on: review notes
Our testers were amazed by the cooling prowess of the Cocoon Chill, given that this is a boxed foam mattress that sits at the lower end of the price spectrum. While it doesn't have quite the chilling powers of the pricier GhostBed Luxe (also featured on this list), we still think it did a serviceable job of maintaining a comfortable sleep temperature.
Designed to adapt to your body to provide tailored support all over, this medium-firm mattress has three different foam layers, including luxury memory foam for deep contouring, responsive comfort foam to reduce motion transfer and prevent you from sinking too deeply into the mattress, and a durable support layer.
At 10-inches deep the Cocoon Chill is a decent height, but bear in mind that its memory foam layer is one inch thinner than the Nectar Memory Foam mattress at the top of our list. If you weigh more than 230lb you may sink through to the firmer support layers, and not get the full benefit of the foams (our guide to the best mattress for heavy bodies can help you out if you're over 250lb).
Overall, we were impressed with the comfort and cooling abilities of the Cocoon by Sealy Chill bed in a box, and gave it superior marks for motion isolation, as well. There's no denying you get a lot for your money here.
Tip from our testers:"If you're looking for a comfortable, cooling, and competitively-priced mattress, the Cocoon Chill Memory Foam mattress is well worth considering. If you're looking for a good side sleeper mattress,chances are you'll love sleeping on it. Likewise, if you're a back or front sleeper, you'll probably find this boxed mattress comfortable, too, but you may be better suited to a firmer option, such as theCocoon Chill Hybridor the DreamCloudfurther up this list."
Price, trial, warranty
In addition to a permanent 35% off sale (ignore the countdown banners), you'll often be able to cut extra money off with a promo code. You'll also receive free sheets and pillows (valued at up to $199) along with a 100-night trial and a 10-year warranty.
- Read more: Cocoon Chill Memory Foam mattress review
Cocoon Chill Memory Foam Mattress:from $619 $399 at Cocoon by Sealy
The evergreen Cocoon by Sealy deal knocks 35% off mattresses, bringing the price of a queen down to $699. (Bookmark our Cocoon by Sealy promo code page for occasional extra discounts). Pillows and sheets are bundled in for free, and an MSRP drop means these are some of the lowest prices we've ever seen.
Best organic mattress in a box
8. Avocado Green Mattress
A premium organic mattress that's worth the investment
Specifications
Type: Latex hybrid
Materials: Latex, wool, coils
Firmness (1-10): 7, 6, or 4
Depth: 11", 13", or 15.5"
Trial: 365 days
Warranty: 25 years
Price bracket : Premium
Reasons to buy
+ All natural, premium build Supportive for heavier bodies Doesn't trap heat
Reasons to avoid
- Returns cost $99 Prices greatly vary by firmness
Buy it if
✅ You want to choose your firmness: The Avocado Mattress comes in three firmness levels so you can choose a feel that best aligns with your preferences and body type. Just beware that the softer you go, the more money you'll have to pay.
✅ You have airborne and/or contact allergies: Latex and wool are hypoallergenic, and this combo can help prevent the growth of mildew, dust mites, and mold. (This is provided you aren't allergic to latex, of course.) Avocado also doesn't use fiberglass in its beds.
✅ You tend to sleep warm: Latex, wool, and cotton are naturally breathable materials while coils aid with airflow. If you have trouble sleeping comfortably due to occasional overheating, the Avocado will provide plenty of relief here.
Don't buy it if
❌ Your budget is limited: The Avocado Green Mattress is the most expensive bed in a box on our list, and that price goes up if you choose the pillow-top or box-top option. If you insist on a latex-based mattress, the Awara below will be easier on your wallet.
❌ You want your mattress to hug you: Avocado uses Dunlop latex, which has minimal contouring versus memory foam. Don't expect to sink too deep into this mattress even with the addition of a box-top or pillow-top.
❌ You're non-committal: Avocado offers a one-year sleep trial, which is great. However, it'll cost $99 to send it back.
The bottom line
🔎 The Avocado Green Mattress is certainly an investment, but we feel it's worth it if you want a quality boxed mattress made from certified organic materials – especially if you sleep warm or struggle with allergies. With three firmness levels to choose from, you'll be able to find something that suits your sleep style and body type.
If you're looking for a luxurious, eco-friendly bed, the Avocado Green is the best mattress in a box you can buy. It also tops our best organic mattress list.
What it's like to sleep on: review notes
The Avocado Green has three versions: standard/firm (which we tested), medium/pillow-top, and plush/box-top. Note that adding a pillow-top or box-top will add as much as $1,100 to the cost of this already-expensive bed.
Notably, the company uses quality, organic materials – without polyester, polyurethane foams, or toxic fire retardants – to produce this premium-quality mattress.Rather than being glued, the Avocado green is hand-tufted, which means ribbons are pulled up through the mattress to hold the layers together. As a result, you'll see soft, organic wool rosettes on the top cover. (If you want to avoid animal products, Avocado does have a vegan version of this mattress.) Comfort and support come via a three-inch layer of GOLS-certified organic latex foam, alongside a layer of steel coils, arranged into five ergonomic zones.
Avocado rates its standard/firm mattress a 7 on the firmness scale, and our testers agree. We think this is best suited to back or stomach sleepers and is suitable for heavier bodies that need extra support. Side sleepers and lightweight individuals will likely find it too firm and should consider one of the softer options.Meanwhile, our testers found this mattress slept comfortably cool thanks to the combo of latex, coils, and cotton – all naturally breathable materials. Edge support is also excellent, and we detected little movement during our drop tests, indicating above-average motion isolation.
The most expensive mattress in our ranking by a fair margin, the Avocado Green is undoubtedly an investment bed. Natural mattresses almost always cost more; the Awara Hybrid further down this list is a notable outlier. Is it worth it? Maybe. There's little doubt you're getting a quality product here – there's plenty of information on the company's website detailing where all the materials come from and explaining the brand's ethos, alongside a long list of certifications confirming various eco-friendly, natural credentials
Tip from our testers: "If you’re truly interested in Avocado—namely their use of organic materials, eco-consciousness, and high quality—yet are prone to side sleeping only and/or prefer less firmness, you may want to consider the pillow-top or box-top add-on. Although it’ll cost you at least a few extra hundred dollars, you'll enjoy a gentle firm feel (pillow-top) or a plushier feel (box-top) that'll be more amenable to side sleeping."
Price, trial, warranty
The typical offer from Avocado takes 10% off its mattresses, although you'll usually find up to 20% off for the pricier pillow-top and box-top versions. Avocado no longer appears to charge for shipping (it cost $99 when we tested it), but since this is a bulky mattress we'd strongly recommend shelling out the $249 for White Glove Delivery if you can swing it. The extras are generous, with a 365-night trial and a 25-year warranty.
- Read more: Avocado Green mattress review
Avocado Green Mattress: Was from $1,399 now $1,299 at Avocado Green
There's currently up to $600 off the Avocado Mattress, which reduces the cost of a queen size to $1,799 (was $1,999). This isn't the strongest Avocado mattress sale we've ever seen so far this year (that was the 15% discount we saw during Memorial Day) but is still a decent price for a fully certified organic queen-size mattress, let alone with one a 25-year warranty and a 365-night trial.
Best mattress in a box for couples
9. Leesa Sapira Hybrid mattress
A cozy hybrid you can sink into without distractions
Specifications
Type: Hybrid
Materials: Memory foam, coils, other foams
Firmness (1-10): 6
Depth: 11"
Trial: 100 days
Warranty: 10 years
Price bracket : Premium
Reasons to buy
+ Terrific motion isolation Has a good bounce to it Good for back/side sleepers
Reasons to avoid
- Middling edge support Cooling tech is ineffective Better values in this price bracket
Buy it if
✅ The smallest movements wake you up: If you're the type to be jolted awake if your partner ever-so-slightly moves a muscle, the Leesa Sapira will eat those movements right up so you can keep snoozing peacefully.
✅ You're a combi side/back sleeper: This is a true medium mattress, so side sleepers and most back sleepers will appreciate the balance of relief and support here.
✅ You're willing to pay for quality materials: Yes, it's expensive (even when it's on sale), but the Leesa Sapira uses high-density foams that won't degrade quickly with nightly use.
Don't buy it if
❌ You break a sweat in your sleep: We were underwhelmed with the Leesa Sapira's cooling capabilities. (The cool-touch cover only did so much to keep our lead tester comfortable.) The similarly-priced GhostBed Luxe below will be a better value for hot sleepers.
❌ You sleep like a starfish: You won't want to spread out on this mattress due to weak edge support. The WinkBed and Avocado Green are two beds on this list that you'll want to check out if you want to maximize your space.
❌ You're all about the extras: The Leesa Sapira's extras are painfully average for what you pay. The DreamCloud (#1) offers a year-long trial and a forever warranty for a fraction of the cost.
The bottom line
🔎 The Leesa Sapira Hybrid mattress is a cozy mattress for side/back sleepers. You won't have to kick your partner or pets out to enjoy it, either – this bed will absorb nearly every movement so you can snooze in peace. We're also fans of the high-quality foam layers, which no doubt play a role in the Sapira's excellent motion isolation.
The Leesa Sapira Hybrid is the brand's best-selling mattress. If you're a fidgety or light sleeper who shares a bed, it's a safe bet if you want to avoid frequent wakeups.
What it's like to sleep on: review notes
Our testers slept on a queen Leesa Sapira mattress for three weeks. According to Leesa, this bed has a medium to medium-firm feel. We think it skews closer to medium, rating it a 6 out of 10 on the firmness scale. Our testers liked it most for side and back sleeping.
Despite having some bounce to it, the Sapira doesn't transfer motion to the other side of the bed when you move around on it. This was evident in our drop tests and real-world experiences. Hybrids generally aren't as good at minimizing movement as all-foam beds, so if you like a more responsive bed feel than the quicksand-like sensation of memory foam, the Sapira is the way to go.
As for other areas of performance, the Leesa Sapira isn't as breathable or cooling as you may think – despite a cool-touch cover and a layer of coils, our lead tester occasionally slept warm on this bed. Edge support also isn't on par with other mattresses at this price point, so beware if you're one to sleep with a partner who slowly nudges you toward the edge.
Those demerits aside, we strongly recommend the Leesa Sapira if you're a combi side/back sleeper who wants to spare yourself (or your sleeping companion) from sudden unpleasant wakeups. Plus, it's a well-made bed with high-quality dense foam layers that won't warp right away – that helps justify the cost in our opinion.
Tip from our testers: "Our reviewer's sleeping position, preferences, and weight were ideally suited for Leesa Sapira mattress. (She's a combination sleeper under 130 pounds.) Side sleepers of light to average weights—as well as back sleepers of light and to average weights who prefer medium versus medium-firm or firm mattresses—are most likely to enjoy the Leesa Sapira. Some heavier sleepers who prefer side sleeping may also take well to it. Stomach sleepers across the board will largely benefit from opting for a firmer mattress."
Price, trial, warranty
Even after regular discounts, the Leesa Sapira is still a premium-priced mattress. There's also a 100-night trial and 10-year warranty – and a free pair of pillows is often included, too. Leesa mattresses are sold at a range of third-party retailers including Amazon, Home Depot, and Target, but they usually follow Leesa's standard sale pricing. (Plus, buying directly from the manufacturer is better for hassle-free aftercare.)
- Read more: Leesa Sapira Hybrid mattress review
Leesa Sapria Hybrid mattress:Was from$1,349$1,011 at Leesa
Regular sales cut up to $400 off the MSRP, but right now there's a 25% discount that results in as much as $575 off. This brings a queen Sapira mattress down to $1,499 (was $1,999). There's a 10-year warranty and a 100-night trial period, as well as two free pillows.
Best cooling mattress in a box
10. GhostBed Luxe mattress
A top-rated bed-in-a-box for people who overheat during sleep
Specifications
Type: Hybrid
Materials: Memory foam, other foams
Firmness (1-10): 5.5
Depth: 13"
Trial: 101 days
Warranty: 25 years
Price bracket: Upper-mid / premium
Reasons to buy
+ Excellent motion isolation Superb cooling tech Cushioned for side sleepers
Reasons to avoid
- Temperature can impact firmness Too plush for side sleeping
Buy it if
✅ You sweat through your sheets: 'Ghost Ice' may sound like a gimmick but it actively draws heat away from your body and creates a more breathable sleep surface. You'll be able to give your aircon a rest at night.
✅ You sleep on your side: With a medium-plush to medium (5.5-6/10) firmness level, most side sleepers should enjoy the all-foam GhostBed Luxe's soothing pressure relief and near-weightless feel.
✅ You share a bed: The GhostBed Luxe absorbs almost any movement you subject it to. This was apparent in our real-world tests, as well as our objective drop tests. We recommend it for couples and families.
Don't buy it if
❌ You don't like being cold: The GhostBed Luxe emits a potent cooling sensation that may be jarring to sleepers who like being swaddled and not too cold. One of our testers eventually started wearing socks to bed when sleeping on the GhostBed Luxe because of this.
❌ You sleep on your back or stomach: With a medium to medium-plush bed feel, back and stomach sleepers won't find enough support along their midsection. The Firm WinkBed (#4) will be a better choice.
❌ You prefer one firmness (and one firmness only): The materials of this specialty cooling bed expand and contract according to your room temperature – leading it to feel softer when the environment is warmer. This could annoy sleepers who are strict about their preferences.
The bottom line
🔎 The GhostBed Luxe mattress is an ideal choice for hot sleepers seeking total relief from overheating and couples who don't want to feel their partners movements. Its medium-plush comfort level will suit side sleepers best, but just beware that the temperature of your bedroom will affect how soft or firm it feels.
The GhostBed Luxe mattress is a premium all-foam mattress in a box. Its USP is that it's jam-packed with cooling tech, making it an excellent choice for anyone who overheats at night.
What it's like to sleep on: review notes
According to GhostBed, its Luxe mattress is 'the coolest bed in the world', and we were inclined to believe that when we tried it out.On top is a luxurious quilted cover made from 'Ghost Ice' fabric, which is designed to absorb heat throughout the night. Our testers were surprised that this cover was cold to the touch – something that they hadn't come across before. Inside the mattress you'll also find gel memory foam (designed to promote airflow and breathability) and thermo-sensitive foam (which responds to your body temperature and adjusts accordingly).
This is hands-down one of the very best cooling mattresses we've tried. We slept comfortably cool on this mattress and didn't overheat once. In fact, on occasion, one of our testers had to don socks and long pants to warm up. This bed's cooling prowess is all the more impressive when you consider it's all-foam, which can be a recipe for overheating. Factoring in the permanent 50% off deal, this is well-priced for a cooling bed, although if it's out of your budget and you don't have severe night sweats, you should check out the Cocoon by Sealy Chill elsewhere on this page.
There were other features that delighted, too. This bed's contouring memory foam and supportive foam layers effectively soothe pressure points and create an almost weightless feeling (be aware that this otherwise medium-plush mattress tends to feel firmer in cooler temps and softer when it's warm, which is a little unusual). It's billed as beneficial for back sleepers, but found the most relief when resting on our sides, with our joints comfortably cushioned in this position. Motion isolation is superb, making the GhostBed Luxe a good choice for anyone who shares a bed with a restless partner.
So what are the potential downsides? The GhostBed Luxe can take up to 24 hours to fully expand and adjust to your bedroom’s temperature (which, to be fair, isn't as long as the Nectar #3 – that took 48 hours). Our review model also emitted some of the most potent off-gassing we've experienced in a full-foam mattress.
Tip from our testers: "The GhostBed Luxe mattress is primarily suited to couples, side sleepers, and those who need a cool and airy bed. It passed our motion transfer test with flying colors, is physically cool to the touch, and regulates temperature at night. Although it’s advertised as beneficial for back sleepers, it doesn’t seem to provide enough firmness to support the hips so seek a firmer hybrid instead."
Price, trial, warranty
GhostBed hosts a permanent 50% off sale, which brings prices to the lower end of the premium price bracket. Every so often, you may get lucky and score some free items with purchase (usually pillows). GhostBed provides a 101-night sleep trial and a 25-year limited warranty.
- Read more: GhostBed Luxe mattress review
GhostBed Luxe mattress in a box: Was from $2,595 now $1,298 at GhostBed
The evergreen GhostBed deal slashes 50% off MSRP. That means a queen is $1,598, which is still a bit of an investment, but far more affordable than the ticket price. You get 101 nights to try it out along with a 25-year limited warranty.
Best latex mattress in a box
11. Awara Natural Hybrid mattress
A much more affordable alternative to the Avocado
Specifications
Type: Latex hybrid
Materials: Latex, coils, wool, cotton, polyester
Firmness (1-10): 8
Depth: 10"
Trial: 365 nights
Warranty: Lifetime
Price bracket : Mid-range
Reasons to buy
+ Fantastic value for a latex bed Supportive for front and back sleeping Excellent edge support
Reasons to avoid
- Too firm for side sleepers Doesn't dampen movement well Not totally organic
Buy it if
✅ You want a latex bed for less: Dunlop latex is expensive to produce, and that cost is often passed to the consumer. That's not the case with the Awara, a latex-based mattress that punches well above its mid-range price.
✅ You're a combi sleeper: Back and stomach sleepers, as well as select side sleepers, will bask in the subtle cradle and ample support of the Awara's latex and wrapped springs.
✅ Edge support is important: You can use every inch of the Awara's sleep surface and not worry about falling overboard.
Don't buy it if
❌ You want a softer mattress for side sleeping: The Awara's level of pressure relief may not be enough for strict side sleepers, who may do better with the Helix Midnight (#2) or the softer variations of the Avocado Green (#7).
❌ You weigh less than 130lbs: For underweight sleepers, the firmness of the Awara could be off-putting. There's not a whole lot of give here.
❌ You share a bed: The Awara doesn't isolate motion as well as many of its competitors. This may be a better fit for solo sleeping (or couples who are incredibly deep sleepers).
The bottom line
🔎The Awara Natural Hybrid mattresslowers the barrier to entry for sleepers who want to be gently cradled by latex foam. The one-year trial and forever warranty are more impressive extras than we've seen from some of its more expensive rivals. If you prefer a near-weightless feel with subtle contouring, you'll dig the Awara.
If the Avocado Green further up the list is out of your financial reach, the Awara Natural Hybrid mattress is an excellent alternative. Whilst you won't avail of a totally organic bed here (the top cover contains a cotton-polyester blend), it's still a great value for a latex-based mattress.
What it's like to sleep on: review notes
The Awara features Dunlop latex (like Avocado) and 8-inch coils. It looks and feels like a much pricier bed – our testing panel couldn't believe how much it cost at the time we tried it, and prices have only gotten better since (more on that later).
This latex hybrid will feel quite firm at first, but allow yourself to relax and you'll indulge in its subtle contouring Combi back and stomach sleepers will like the Awara, as will side sleepers who want a little extra support to go with their pressure relief. That said, sleepers under 130lbs or sleepers who like softer beds may not feel as comfy on the Awara.
Edge support on our twin test model was excellent, which bodes well for larger sizes. It sleeps temperature neutral thanks to the latex and coils. If you want a bouncy bed, the Awara will certainly deliver – but at the expense of decent motion isolation. We're hesitant to recommend this one if you and/or your partner are squirmy sleepers.
A note about the cover: Awara claims to use a wool-cotton blend, but the mattress tag notes a cotton-poly blend per the tag. If you're looking for an organic latex mattress, the Avocado above will be the way to go – but if you're just looking for an affordable latex mattress, you'll still get a lot from the Awara.
Tip from our testers:"Whether you sleep on your side, back, or stomach – or a combination of styles – the Awara mattress quickly adapts to the contours of your body, providing excellent pressure relief and spinal alignment.It's quite firm with minimal give, though. If you prefer the 'hug' of a traditional foam mattress, the Awara may be off-putting."
Price, trial, warranty
The current evergreen Awara sale knocks 50% off the MSRP, yielding some of the best prices we've ever tracked for it. (A queen is now on sale for under $950.) You'll no longer score free bedding with purchase but you can add a sleep accessory bundle at a massive discount instead. Factor in the 365-night sleep trial and lifetime warranty and you have the best value we've seen for an organic mattress.
- Read more: Awara Natural Hybrid mattress review
Awara Natural Luxury Hybrid:from$1,299$649 at Awara
Awara began taking 50% off its flagship mattress a few months ago and that sale is still ongoing – possibly indicating that this is the new evergreen offer. At $949 for a queen, it's a very good price for a latex bed and we normally see them retail for at least a few hundred more. You'll get a 365-night sleep trial, a lifetime warranty and free shipping and returns too.
Best mattress in a box on Amazon under $500
12. Linenspa Memory Foam Hybrid mattress
Get a queen size for under $250 with free Prime 2-day shipping
Specifications
Type: Hybrid
Materials: Polyester, memory foam, polyfoam, steel coils
Firmness (1-10): 6.5
Depth: 8"
Trial: N/A
Warranty: 10 years
Price bracket : Budget
Reasons to buy
+ An affordable hybrid mattress Excellent for kids Good guest bed or temp bed
Reasons to avoid
- No proper trial Takes days to fully expand
Buy it if
✅ You're buying a mattress for your child: With an 8-inch profile, this is plenty supportive for little ones who are graduating to their first 'big kid' bed – and you won't have to spend an arm and a leg to get it.
✅ You want a 'just-in-case' guest bed: For minimal use, the Linenspa Memory Foam Hybrid is a step up from inflating the air mattress for the occasional overnight visitor.
✅ You need a new mattress ASAP: Things happen – a sudden move or another mishap means you may need to purchase a mattress that's below what you'd like to spend. As a temporary solution, this will get the job done.
Don't buy it if
❌ You're an average-sized adult: The 8-inch version we tested works fine for kids and smaller teens and adults. Otherwise, spend extra on the taller 10 or 12-inch versions (or just buy a Siena at #5).
❌ You're willing to buy without a trial: Amazon has a 100-day window for returns and refunds, but you can only send back mattresses that haven't been opened. You'll have to come up with a backup plan if it doesn't work out.
❌ You're impatient: If you thought the Nectar took a long time to fully expand, our tester had to wait around five days before she could sleep on the Linenspa. Chances are you're getting a bed that's been wrapped and boxed for a long time.
The bottom line
🔎 The Linenspa Memory Foam Hybrid mattress is very much a budget mattress. It's a great choice for kids and temporary solutions, but don't expect a forever mattress. (However, it does come with a 10-year warranty.)
Whether you want to spruce up a child's bedroom or pick up a cheap dorm mattress, the Linenspa Memory Foam Hybrid mattress is a great pickup if you're an Amazon Prime member who needs something on the cheap.
What it's like to sleep on: review notes
For three weeks, our lead tester slept on a Linenspa Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress with an 8-inch profile. We rate it a 6.5 out of 10 on the firmness scale (medium-firm). There are taller variations that are softer (and more supportive for most adults), but naturally, they cost more.
Thus, we recommend the 8-inch Linenspa mattress for children who are graduating to a 'big kid' bed, as well as smaller teenagers and lightweight adults who won't sink through to the coils. It'll be a decent addition for a guest room that doesn't see much use, too. (We'd rank it above using an air mattress.)
Of course, for a hybrid this cheap you'll be making a few concessions. The edge support is lacking, and hot sleepers may find it too warm for their liking. Motion isolation isn't much to write home about, either – but that shouldn't be an issue for solo sleepers anyway.
As a temporary solution or a child's bed, though, the Linenspa Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress is priced just right. Even if you spend extra for the taller, more supportive versions, you still shouldn't expect a 'forever' mattress. But sometimes, all you need is a 'right now' mattress, and you shouldn't have to throw a lot of cash at that. If you're an Amazon Prime member, you'll qualify for free 2-day shipping.
Tip from our testers: "We think this is a great choice for children, who will experience enough support from the mattress because they’re much lighter. As it’s a bargain, the Linenspa could also be a good option for a spare room and occasional guests. If you need to replace your main mattress as soon as possible, it could be a solid solution if your current bed has outlasted its usefulness, but it'll be a temporary fix before you can find something longer-lasting."
Price, trial, warranty
An 8-inch twin Linenspa Memory Foam Hybrid starts at around $120 at Amazon, and a queen retails for around $240. A 10-year warranty applies but there's no formal trial period. Note that Amazon only accepts returns for unopened mattresses; otherwise, you'll only be eligible for a refund. (You'll have 100 days to request a return or refund.)
- Read more: Linenspa Memory Foam Hybrid mattress review
How we chose the best mattress in a box 2024: How we test
The Tom's Guide mattress review process is editorially independent and not influenced by any third parties. We conduct market research to see which new boxed mattresses are being released, then contact the brands for review samples.Every mattress in this guide has been selected by our editorial team.
Our expert mattress testers sleep on each mattress for at least three weeks, which is roughly how long it takes for your body to get used to a new mattress. However, firmness and comfort are subjective so we also ask a trusted and experienced testing panel – made up of people with different sleep needs and body types – to rate each mattress. This ensures we get a well-rounded view of how a mattress performs.
We don't just sleep on these mattresses – we also run a series of tests for an objective look at their motion isolation, pressure relief, and edge support. After analyzing our test data and conducting extensive user review research, we rate each mattress on a 5-point scale. All of this in-house testing data, plus our user review research, is then used to create a final review score for the mattress in a box. If it's high enough, the bed will be added to this guide of the year's best beds-in-a-box.
These processes enable us to produce accurate, well-balanced, and data-backed mattress reviews to help you easily decide whether the mattress you’re interested in really is the best choice for you. See our mattress methodology for more.
Mattress in a box testing data
Below is a breakdown of how we scored each mattress-in-a-box. You can refer to this if you're looking for beds that excel in a specific area. We also included the average customer review scores for each mattress (as of April 2024).
Swipe to scroll horizontally
Header Cell - Column 0 | The DreamCloud | Nectar Mattress | Helix Midnight Luxe | Siena Mattress | Purple Mattress | Cocoon Chill | The WinkBed | Avocado Green | Leesa Sapira | Ghostbed Luxe | The Awara | Linenspa Memory Foam Hybrid |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Overall test score | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 | 4/5 | 4.5/5 | 3/5 |
Set-up | 4/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 4.5/5 | 3.5/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 3.5/5 | 3/5 | 5/5 | 4.5/5 | 3/5 |
Off-gassing | 4.5/5 | 4/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 | 3/5 | 2/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 |
Temperature regulation | 4.7/5 | 4.5/5 | 4/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 5/5 | 3.5/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 | 3.5/5 |
Motion Isolation | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 | 5/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 | 4/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 3/5 | 3.5/5 |
Edge support | 3.5/5 | 3.5/5 | 4/5 | 5/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 3.5/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 | 2/5 |
Average user review score | 4.6/5 | 4.7/5 | 4.4/5 | 4.4/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.7/5 | 4.8/5 | 4.6/5 | 4.4/5 | 4.8/5 | 4.4/5 | 4.4/5 |
Row 7 - Cell 0 | Row 7 - Cell 1 | Row 7 - Cell 2 | Row 7 - Cell 3 | Row 7 - Cell 4 | Row 7 - Cell 5 | Row 7 - Cell 6 | Row 7 - Cell 7 | Row 7 - Cell 8 | Row 7 - Cell 9 | Row 7 - Cell 10 | Row 7 - Cell 11 | Row 7 - Cell 12 |
Other mattresses-in-a-box we've tested
We test multiple mattresses-in-a-box every month. This guide highlights the best of the bunch, but perhaps there's an option that didn't make the cut that might be just what you're looking for. You can also take a look at our other specialist guides if you know you want something cooling, firm, or suitable for back pain.
Some of the other mattresses-in-a-box that we've reviewed include:
- Birch Natural mattress review - review score of 4.5/5
- Purple Plus mattress – review score of 4.5/5
- Nectar Premier Hybrid mattress review - review score of 4/5/5
- Helix Midnight Classic mattress – review score of 4/5
- Leesa Oasis Chill Hybrid mattress review– review score of 4/5
- The Allswell mattress review - review score of 4/5
- - review score of 4/5
- Dreamfoam Essential mattress review - review score of 4/5
- Zoma Boost mattress review - review score of 4/5
- Amerisleep AS3 mattress review - review score of 4/5
- Bear Original mattress review - review score of 4/5
- Nolah Evolution 15 mattress review - review score of 4/5
- Layla Essential mattress review - review score of 3.5/5
- Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress review - review score of 3.5/5
- Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam mattress review - review score of 3.5/5
- Puffy Hybrid Lux mattress review - review score of 3/5
Mattress in a box FAQs
What is a mattress in a box?
A mattress in a box is a memory foam or hybrid mattress that has been machine-compressed into a smaller size, tightly rolled, then packed into a tough cardboard box for shipping to your home. Shipping times vary by brand, but you can get a boxed mattress as fast as within two working days.
Once that box arrives at your door, your job is to unbox it. Each mattress in a box is covered in a reinforced plastic cover, and many brands give you a tool to slice through that covering more easily.Once the mattress has been fully unpacked, pop it on your bed base where it will begin to regain its full shape.
While they are the same as regular mattresses once fully decompressed, a mattress in a box takes anywhere from a few hours to a few days to be ready to sleep on.Emma mattresses, for example, are ready to sleep on in a few hours, while Nectar mattresses take up to 72 hours.
You may notice a bit of a smell at first, but this mattress off-gassing is normal. Just open the windows and it should soon pass, leaving you to enjoy your comfy new bed. To care for your new mattress in a box, cover it with one of the best mattress protectors to safeguard against stains.
Casper has been credited with making beds-in-a-box popular since its launch nearly 10 years ago, and now we also have the likes of Purple, Layla, Nectar, Helix and many others.
In terms of warranty, coverage ranges from 10 years to a Forever Warranty (Nectar and DreamCloud), but we’d advise you to check the small print so that you know what will and won’t be covered. For further guidance, read our feature on how do mattress warranties work.
Are mattresses in a box any good?
Yes, boxed mattresses can be excellent if you pick the right one. We've spoken to experts from the mattress industry to get a definitive answer on if beds that come in a box are good, and the short answer is that the quality of the mattress is much more to do with the specific model than whether it has been compressed or not. There are plenty of fantastic boxed options – such as those included in our ranking – but also plenty of rubbish cheap boxed mattresses that should be avoided.
Boxed mattresses are often delivered quicker and are easier to maneuver, but you'll avoid decompression time and perhaps also off-gassing if you go for a traditional option.
It’s easy to look at the cheaper price tags of some mattresses in a box and dismiss them as being too cheap to be supportive or comfortable, but that simply isn’t the case. We have spent hundreds of hours sleeping on some of the top boxed mattresses and find them equally as comfortable as traditional mattresses sold in store.
Do you need a box spring for a mattress in a box?
Many years ago, a box spring was a must for your mattress. These days, it's not a necessity and in a lot of cases, using a box spring with your boxed mattress can void its warranty.
The reason? Modern mattresses are built to be sturdy enough that you can forego a bed base and simply put them on the floor (though we don't totally recommend this). Box springs made sense when thinner innerspring mattresses were the standard, as they provided a boost in support, height, and airflow. Today's memory foam, latex, and hybrid mattresses in a box should be fine with a foundation instead.
- Read more: What is a box spring?
Mattress in a box expert buying advice
How to choose the best mattress in a box
With more and more options available for buying a mattress in a box, it’s now easier than ever to find something that suits your sleeping position, body weight and any particular needs you might have when it comes to getting a restful night’s sleep.
Things to look out for when buying a bed-in-a-box online include:
Features – If you need extra features from a mattress to help you sleep, then there’ll be something for you, whether you sleep hot, need more pressure relief, or extra support for backache. Plenty of mattresses now come with innovative tech and eco-friendly materials too, so whatever your concerns, it should be covered.
Firmness – just like standard mattresses, beds in a box come in a variety of firmnesses. If you know you will likely need a firmer mattress for instance, check before you buy to ensure you are getting the most comfortable choice for you.
Trial period and free delivery/returns – many top brands offer mattress trials on their mattresses, giving you the chance to try the mattress out for yourself. It’s always a good idea to take advantage of trial periods, and if you decide the mattress isn’t for you, check that you can get a full refund.
This takes a lot of the stress out of buying a mattress online, especially if the mattress is expensive. Also check if the company offers free returns so there’ll be no surprises if you do need to send the mattress back.
Reviews – online reviews often give you extra information about the mattress, including feedback after a few weeks’ use and a closer assessment of the feel and comfort for different body weights. If you have decided on a boxed mattress, compare a few user reviews on the brand websites with those elsewhere too.
How to open a bed-in-a-box
The best way to unbox your new mattress is to follow the instructions provided by the mattress manufacturer. As these guidelines are similar, we can provide you with some general guidance here. The main difference between brands is how long they recommend that you leave the bed-in-a-box to inflate before you sleep on it.
For example, Emma Sleep says that its Original memory foam mattress is ready to sleep on within 60 minutes, while the Nectar Mattress can take up to 72 hours to decompress fully.
Allowing your mattress in a box the time it needs to properly inflate (decompress) means that it will be in the best position to properly support your body. If you use the mattress before the manufacturer says it’s ready to sleep on, you may damage the materials and risk voiding your warranty.
In general, here’s how to open a mattress in a box:
- Take it through to your bedroom of choice
- Open the top of the cardboard box and remove any printed instructions or packaging cutting tools (see image above for an example)
- Now lay the cardboard box on its side
- Pull the rolled mattress out of the box so that it’s resting on the floor
- If you have been given a packaging cutting tool, use this to carefully cut through the tough plastic covering the mattress. Some brands, like Avocado Green, wrap their mattresses in paper, which is easy to remove.
- One the boxed mattress is out of its protective packaging, place it onto your bed frame because it will start inflating (decompressing) immediately.
- Open a window to let the smell of off-gassing dissipate.
- Leave the mattress to decompress for the number of minutes or hours stated by the brand you purchased it from.
When is the best time to buy a mattress in a box?
There are definitely key periods throughout the year when it’s better to buy a boxed mattress, and chief among these is the Black Friday mattress deals, where prices are at their lowest and discounts are at their highest.
These often roll over into Cyber Monday mattress deals, which is the first Monday immediately following Black Friday, and you may even see some higher discounts on Cyber Monday when brand’s mount last-ditch efforts to attract your custom before Christmas.
Beyond that, the Memorial Day mattress sales in May are another key time to buy a mattress in a box for less than normal, with retailers looking to shift older stock before new ranges arrive in the summer.Labor Day mattress sales in September are also a good time to look, as they feature some of the lowest prices before Black Friday season.
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Claire Davies
Senior Sleep Editor, Certified Sleep Science Coach
Claire Davies is Tom's Guide's mattress expert and main sleep product tester with over 15 years' product review experience, and she is responsible for all mattress and sleep coverage on the site. A qualified journalist, Sleep Editor and Certified Sleep Science Coach, Claire writes about all things related to sleep, from mattress reviews to the latest sleep techniques and research. Claire has interviewed a wealth of experts, from mattress designers and innovators to neuroscientists and doctors of sleep medicine. Before taking on the role of Sleep Editor, Claire worked as Health & Wellness Editor at Top Ten Reviews, and before that was a Senior Content Editor at T3. Claire is super-passionate about how consistent, good quality sleep can boost our physical and mental wellbeing, and would love to hear from PRs and brands regarding sleep products, services and research that can help our readers sleep better than ever.
With contributions from
- Alison BarrettaFreelance reviewer and writer
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