Best mattress in a box 2024: We've tested them all | Tom's Guide

Oct 17, 2024

We've slept on and tested all the latest mattresses in a box and these are the ones we recommend buying

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This year’s best mattresses in a box offer support, comfort, and quality comparable to the traditional mattresses you'll find in stores. Nearly all the recommendations in our best mattress of 2024 guide are mattresses in a box, and our team of experts have tested boxed beds for every sleep style. In this guide you’ll find a mattress in a box for all sleep positions and budgets, plus a full review of each choice.

So if quality and comfort are equal, what’s the difference between a mattress in a box and a traditional mattress? It’s all about the packing process. While a traditional mattress is delivered flat, a mattress in a box is compressed with a heavy weight, rolled in plastic, boxed, and delivered to your door. When you open the packaging, the mattress unrolls and expands to its previous shape.

This packaging negates the need for an expensive brick and mortar store, and the saving is passed on to the consumer. You can get a great quality bed for less, with regular online mattress sales helping you save further. Our top tip when buying a boxed mattress online is to look for a bed with a sleep trial, which allows you to enjoy the bed at home before you commit. Here are our top recommendations for this year's best mattress in a box based on our in-house testing...

Our expert review:

✅ 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.

❌ 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 DreamCloud mattress doesn'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 notesWe 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, warrantyAs 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.

DreamCloud Mattress: was from $839 now $419 at DreamCloud SleepThe DreamCloud up to 50% off sale has been running for most of this year, and although we've recently seen it rebranded as a Labor Day sale and a fall sale, the saving has stayed the same. Even so, it's a generous discount on a top-rated hybrid mattress in a box, with a queen size DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid costing $665 (was $1,483) in this month's DreamCloud mattress sale. You'll also get free shipping, a lifetime warranty and a year's sleep trial. Definitely one to consider if you're after a mattress that exemplifies the quality and affordability of a boxed bed.

Our expert review:

✅ 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).

❌ 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 Nectar Mattress continues 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.

This product entry relates to the Nectar Memory Foam Mattress, which has recently been redesigned and renamed the Nectar Classic Memory Foam. We are in the process of testing the new Nectar model and will update this guide with our review findings soon.

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 notesWe 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 warrantyWhere 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.

Nectar Classic Memory Foam Mattress: was from $934 now $349 at Nectar SleepThe current Nectar mattress sale improves the deal we see every month, raising the discount from up to 40% off to up to 50% off. But while the sale has technically been increased the end price is the same: a queen Nectar Classic Memory Foam bed-in-a-box is $649 (was $1,387). You'll get a year's trial, lifetime warranty and free shipping here too. It might not be the most exciting deal, but it's still a highly competitive price for a quality memory foam mattress in a box.

Our expert review:

✅ 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 sinking sensation of foam: Granted, there's a break-in period involved, but even after a month of sleeping on the Siena mattress in a box our testers still found it much firmer than expected with minimal give. Back and stomach sleepers will enjoy this.✅ 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.

❌ 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 Siena Memory Foam mattress is 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 notesWhen 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, warrantyThe 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).

Siena Memory Foam Mattress: was from $529 now $199 at Siena SleepWith a year-round up to 50% off sale, the Siena Mattress is our favorite affordable mattress in a box. A queen size will set you back only $399 (was $799), while a king is just $499 (was $976). And on top of that, you'll get a 180-night trial and a 10-year warranty — fantastic benefits for an inexpensive bed in a box. Want even more? You can add a bedding bundle with mattress protector, sheets, and pillow for just $99.

Our expert review:

✅ 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.

❌ 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 Helix Midnight is 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 notesOur 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, warrantyRegular 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.

Helix Midnight Luxe mattress: was from $1,373 now $1,030 at Helix SleepThe Helix Midnight Luxe mattress proves that luxury really can come rolled up in a box, and with the Helix mattress sale, premium sleep doesn't have to break the bank. There's 20% off all sizes of the Helix Midnight Luxe currently, reducing a queen to to $1,780 (was $2,373) and you'll get two free luxury Helix Dream pillows too. It's not the best sale we've seen from Helix so if you aren't in a rush to buy, we expect something bigger for Black Friday.

Our expert review:

✅ 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.

❌ 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 WinkBed mattress is 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 notesWe 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, warrantyIgnore 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.

The WinkBed mattress: was from $1,149 now $849 at WinkBedsThere's $300 off all sizes off this versatile mattress with the WinkBeds mattress discount. A queen size WinkBed costs $1,499 (was $1,799), which might be a premium price but is cheaper than its close rival, the Saatva Classic. You'll also get a 120-night trial and a forever warranty, but while shipping is free, there's a $49 returns fee. Based on previous sales, we don't expect this deal to go anywhere soon.

Our expert review:

✅ 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.

❌ 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 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 notesIn 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 the Purple Hybrid mattress."

Price, trials, warrantyThe 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.

Purple Mattress: was from $999 now $899 at PurplePurple mattress deals can be unpredictable, so if an offer catches your eye, we recommend you start shopping. There's up to $200 off the Purple Mattress in the current sale, with a queen now $1,299 (was $1,499), plus a 100-night trial and 10-year warranty. It's not the best deal we've seen from Purple, but unlike other sleep brands, we can't always guarantee a saving. If you want the Purple Mattress, now is still a good time to shop.

Our expert review:

✅ 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.

❌ 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 Cocoon by Sealy Chill isn'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 notesOur 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 the Cocoon Chill Hybrid or the DreamCloud further up this list."Price, trial, warrantyIn 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.

Cocoon Chill Memory Foam Mattress: was from $619 now $399 at Cocoon by SealyCombining a 35% discount with a free bedding bundle, the Cocoon by Sealy Chill is well priced for a specialist cooling mattress in a box. You can buy a memory foam Cocoon Chill queen size for just $699 (was $1,079), or upgrade to a hybrid for $899 (was $1,389), and all options come with a 100-night trial, free shipping, and a 10-year warranty. We see this sale every month, but it's still worth your attention.

Our expert review:

✅ 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.

❌ 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 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 notesOur 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, warrantyEven 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.)

Leesa Sapria Hybrid mattress: was from $1,349 now $1,011 at LeesaThe regular Leesa sale can save you hundreds on this premium mattress, reducing a queen from $1,999 to $1,499. You'll also get two free pillows, plus a 100-night sleep trial, a 10-year warranty, and free delivery. We have seen the saving increase around the major holidays, so we're keeping our fingers crossed for something big this Black Friday.

Our expert review:

✅ 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.

❌ 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 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 notesFor 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, warrantyAn 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.)

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.

Our mattress in a box testing panel is made up of people with different sleep needs and body types. This ensures we get a well-rounded view of how a mattress feels and performs for different body types and sleeping positions.

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.

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.

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).

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:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Here at Tom’s Guide our expert editors are committed to bringing you the best news, reviews and guides to help you stay informed and ahead of the curve!

Claire is a fully qualified journalist and Certified Sleep Science Coach with over 15 years’ product review experience. Claire is responsible for all mattress and sleep content published on Tom’s Guide, including our Best Mattress of 2024 buying guide. She is our expert on Saatva, DreamCloud, Nectar and Tempur-Pedic mattresses, and is also our in-house hybrid mattress specialist. Claire is certified to advise people on how to choose a mattress that best suits their sleep, body and budget, as well as helping them to create a nighttime routine and bedroom environment that promote good sleep. As Senior Sleep Editor, Claire takes the lead on developing and overseeing rigorous testing procedures for our mattress reviews, both at home and in our fully equipped Sleep Studio. Claire leads a team of experienced sleep and mattress specialists who report on and test a wide range of mattress and sleep products, and she also writes about all things related to sleep, and has interviewed a wealth of experts including mattress designers and buyers, neuroscientists, and doctors of sleep medicine.

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