A mattress is a big investment. While some shoppers are prepared to splurge for their ideal sleep surface, modestly priced yet functional models are also widely available. Shopping on a budget may narrow your mattress options, but it doesn’t mean that you can’t find a comfortable solution that meets your needs.
We’ve tested hundreds of models and selected the best cheap mattresses based on their quality and performance. If your budget is flexible, check out our guide to the best mattresses to see highlights from our testers’ overall favorites. Alternatively, we’ve also compiled a guide to the best mattresses under $300 for shoppers on a tight budget.
The Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex proves you can purchase a high-quality memory foam mattress without breaking the bank. Six individual layers work together to cushion your body, minimize sinkage around the midsection, and leave you feeling refreshed and pain-free each morning.
Ideal forSide and Back Sleepers
FirmnessMedium Firm (6)
FeelPlush, Supportive Surface
ValueGreat Value
Pros
All-foam design cushions sore spots and prevents pressure buildup
Zoned transitional layer pushes back to keep your midsection upright
Excellent motion isolation for couples
Cons
Limited edge support
Strong off-gassing odor may linger for several nights after unboxing
Side Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
6.0/10
130-230 lbs
9.0/10
Above 230 lbs
7.5/10
Back Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
8.0/10
130-230 lbs
7.0/10
Above 230 lbs
6.0/10
Stomach Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
8.0/10
130-230 lbs
6.5/10
Above 230 lbs
6.0/10
With the Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam, you get a high-quality mattress that performs well across the board at a price that falls well below average compared to the competition. With cushy memory foam on the surface and dense base layers, this mattress provides a balanced feel that should appeal to a wide range of sleeper types.
Why We Like It
As a medium firm (6) memory foam mattress, the CopperFlex should meet the needs of most side and back sleepers who weigh up to 230 pounds. The foam layers contour closely enough to cushion the shoulders and hips, which is key for comfortable side sleeping, but the zoned transitional foam prevents back sleepers from feeling too much sinkage around their midsections. Motion isolation is another major strength of the mattress. All six layers work together to absorb movement and prevent motion from transferring across the surface, so couples should experience sleep disruptions related to position changes or late-night trips to the bathroom.
How Does It Feel?
Four layers make up the CopperFlex's comfort system, beginning with 1 inch of adaptive polyfoam sewn to the Euro-top cover. Two memory foam layers provide additional cushioning, while a three-zone transitional polyfoam layer feels firmer and more supportive beneath your torso and hips. Two layers of high-density base foam stabilize the mattress. A cover made of GlacioTex fabric dissipates heat on contact and feels cool to the touch at all times.
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
Layla Essential Mattress
8.3/10
$160 off the Layla Memory Foam Mattress with code: sleepy
The Layla Essential is a soothing, pressure-relieving all-foam mattress tailored to side sleepers with a budget-friendly sticker price to boot. Our tests show that this two-layer model excels at motion isolation and alleviates pressure exceptionally well.
Ideal forBudget Shoppers
FirmnessMedium Firm (6)
FeelClose-Conforming Foam
ValueGreat Value
Pros
Budget-friendly all-foam design is plush and adaptive
Excellent motion isolation for couples
Cover is removable and machine-washable
Cons
Too soft for most people over 230 pounds
Foam layers can sink and hinder movement on the surface
Side Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
7.5/10
130-230 lbs
8.0/10
Above 230 lbs
6.0/10
Back Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
7.0/10
130-230 lbs
6.5/10
Above 230 lbs
6.0/10
Stomach Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
7.0/10
130-230 lbs
6.0/10
Above 230 lbs
5.5/10
If you're a side sleeper, chances are you'll feel most comfortable on a mattress with mid-level firmness that contours to your body and supports your shoulders and hips. The Layla Essential checks all of these boxes, and its approachable sticker price should also appeal to budget shoppers who want more bang for their mattress buck.
Why We Like It
The Layla Essential hits that sweet spot for cushioning, support, and bounce that many side sleepers prefer. Our hands-on tests indicate this bed's plush, adaptive medium firm (6) feel is particularly well suited for side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds, but ratings were solid across the board from testers who use the side position. Back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds also gave the Essential high marks. In terms of performance, the mattress excelled at motion isolation and pressure relief, but struggled with edge support and ease of movement. Temperature control was also so-so, with some noticeable heat retention on the surface — but still better compared to most of the other all-foam models we've tested in this price range.
How Does It Feel?
The Layla Essential contains a 2-inch comfort layer of open-cell memory foam. This material conforms to your body to promote even alignment and reduce pressure along the spine, but without retaining as much heat as traditional memory foam. High-density base foam makes up the support core, giving the mattress good overall stability without making the surface feel stiff. Altogether, the Essential measures 9 inches thick. A stretch-woven cover encases the mattress. You may remove and machine-wash the cover if stains or smudges appear.
The DreamCloud Classic is constructed similarly to many competing hybrids, but its sticker price falls well below average. Cushy foam layers, sturdy coils, and a breathable cover add to the appeal of this budget-friendly model.
Ideal forCombination Sleepers
FirmnessMedium Firm (6)
FeelCushioned, Supportive Surface
ValueGreat Value
Pros
Adaptive foam layers contour closely to align the spine and alleviate pressure
Perimeter coils are reinforced to bolster edge support
All orders include a 365-night sleep trial
Cons
Strong initial off-gassing odor can persist for several nights after unboxing
Foam layers can hinder movement on the surface
Side Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
7.0/10
130-230 lbs
8.0/10
Above 230 lbs
6.5/10
Back Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
7.5/10
130-230 lbs
7.0/10
Above 230 lbs
6.0/10
Stomach Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
7.0/10
130-230 lbs
6.0/10
Above 230 lbs
5.0/10
The DreamCloud Classic Hybrid is crafted from high-quality materials, performs well for a wide range of sleepers, and carries a reasonable sticker price. So it should come as no surprise that this is one of the most popular mattress-in-a-box models on the market. DreamCloud further sweetens the deal for shoppers with frequent discounts to further lower costs and a generous 365-night sleep trial.
Why We Like It
As a medium firm (6) mattress, the DreamCloud Classic Hybrid hits the sweet spot for most sleeper types. Our hands-on tests show the balanced design is particularly well suited to side and back sleepers up to 230 pounds. Stomach sleepers under 130 pounds should feel comfortable on the mattress, as well. With thick foam layers to isolate motion, a reinforced perimeter, and steady bounce in response to movement, the Classic is also a solid choice for couples. Another strength our team noted was temperature control. The foam layers don't absorb much heat, the coils generate plenty of interior airflow, and the cover is breathable.
How Does It Feel?
With comfort layers of memory foam and transitional polyfoam, the DreamCloud Classic Hybrid feels cushy and adaptive on the surface. You'll notice a gentle contour as your body settles into the mattress, but the thick pocketed coils push back against your weight to prevent excessive sinkage. Reinforced perimeter coils also minimize compression when you lie along the edges of the mattress or get in and out of bed. At 12 inches thick, the DreamCloud Classic has a standard profile and won't require a deep-pocket fitted sheet.
Since the average hybrid costs about $1,500 in a queen size, the Dreamfoam CopperFlex RV Hybrid from Brooklyn Bedding is a bargain for budget-conscious shoppers. That said, the mattress provides the same levels of pressure relief, support, and temperature control as many of its more expensive competitors.
Ideal forSide Sleepers
FirmnessMedium Firm (6)
FeelResponsive Hybrid Design
ValueGreat Value
Pros
Memory foam comfort layer lightly contours without sinking too deeply
Cooling gel infusion and steady internal airflow help you sleep cool
Wide size selection including several RV-friendly options
Cons
Limited support for back and stomach sleepers over 230 pounds
Motion transfer may cause sleep disruptions for couples
Only available in one firmness level
Side Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
7.0/10
130-230 lbs
8.5/10
Above 230 lbs
7.5/10
Back Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
8.5/10
130-230 lbs
7.5/10
Above 230 lbs
6.5/10
Stomach Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
8.0/10
130-230 lbs
7.0/10
Above 230 lbs
6.0/10
The popularity of the hybrid has soared in recent years. Many sleepers enjoy this mattress type’s inherent balance of cushioning, support, bounce, and cooling — but for shoppers with tight budgets, high-quality hybrid options are fairly limited. The Dreamfoam CopperFlex RV Hybrid is a rare exception thanks to thoughtful construction, strong performance, and an approachable sticker price.
Why We Like It
The Dreamfoam CopperFlex RV Hybrid’s medium firm (6) feel made it particularly popular among our side sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds, but the mattress earned favorable ratings from most of our team. Our tests also show the hybrid controls temperature well. The cooling gel infusion in the top foam layer, steady airflow through the coils, and breathable cover can all benefit people who run hot in bed and lose sleep as a result. Other standout qualities include sturdy edge support and enough bounce to facilitate movement across the surface.
How Does It Feel?
On its surface, the Dreamfoam CopperFlex RV Hybrid feels fairly plush. Down-like fibers are quilted into the cover and the memory foam comfort layer softens and adapts to your figure when it comes into contact with heat. This creates a cradle-like mold for your entire body, which in turn promotes even alignment and alleviates pressure along the spine, but the robust coils in the support core push back against your weight and prevent excessive sinkage. The coils also produce a light bounce when you get in and out of bed.
The Cocoon Chill’s gel-infused comfort layer and phase change cover offset the heat retention that often occurs with all-foam mattresses, allowing you to stay cool and comfortable throughout the night. This mattress also excels at pressure relief and motion isolation.
Ideal forHot Sleepers
FirmnessMedium Firm (6)
FeelClose-Conforming Foam
ValueGood Value
Pros
Cover incorporates phase change material designed to counteract heat retention
Deep-cradling all-foam construction relieves pressure and absorbs vibrations
Frequently comes with a free gift
Cons
Lasting impressions might make you want to replace the mattress after a few years of use
Foam compression could hinder movement and limit edge support
Warranty claims incur transportation costs
Side Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
7.5/10
130-230 lbs
8.0/10
Above 230 lbs
6.5/10
Back Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
7.0/10
130-230 lbs
7.0/10
Above 230 lbs
6.0/10
Stomach Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
6.5/10
130-230 lbs
6.0/10
Above 230 lbs
5.5/10
The Cocoon Chill by Sealy is an all-foam mattress featuring adaptive memory foam over dense polyfoam. With a thoughtful construction and innovative cooling features, the mattress is an excellent choice for sleepers who like the feel of memory foam but tend to overheat in bed.
Why We Like It
Based on our tests, the mattress best suits back and stomach sleepers of all weights and side sleepers who weigh more than 130 pounds. It received the highest ratings from back sleepers on our team who weigh between 130 and 230 pounds. Our tests showed that the memory foam comfort layer conforms to the body and relieves pressure along the spine. The Cocoon Chill also performed really well on our motion isolation tests, so this bed is a safe bet if you’re trying to minimize sleep disruptions from a restless co-sleeper. Testers barely noticed when their partners moved around on the other side of the bed.
How Does It Feel?
The Chill’s foam layers contour gently to cushion your body while maintaining even support. With a medium firm (6) feel, the mattress cradles the body without sacrificing stability. We also noted that the polyfoam transitional layer should prevent excessive sinkage, and the high-density polyfoam support core stabilized the mattress when we shifted positions. The Chill’s phase change material cover is engineered to absorb and redistribute heat, maintaining a comfortable surface temperature in the process. This helps the mattress offset heat retention from the foam layers and sleep relatively cool.
The SweetNight CoolNest is a budget-friendly all-foam mattress with a deep comfort system to cradle your body and reduce pressure buildup. Our hands-on tests indicate the mattress is an especially good match for side sleepers who need extra cushioning for their shoulders and hips.
Ideal forSide Sleepers
FirmnessMedium (5)
FeelClose-Conforming Foam
ValueExcellent Value
Pros
Adaptive surface hugs the body and alleviates pressure along the spine
Excellent motion isolation for couples
Zoned support core pushes back to keep the midsection elevated
Cons
Most stomach sleepers need a firmer mattress
Edges tend to buckle and sink when weight is applied
Strong off-gassing odor may linger for up to four nights after unboxing
Side Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
9.5/10
130-230 lbs
8.0/10
Above 230 lbs
7.0/10
Back Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
8.5/10
130-230 lbs
7.0/10
Above 230 lbs
6.0/10
Stomach Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
7.0/10
130-230 lbs
6.0/10
Above 230 lbs
5.0/10
Many all-foam mattresses are relatively affordable, but the SweetNight CoolNest stands out for its more complex design featuring four individual layers in its comfort system and zoned foam "bars" stabilizing the support core. These elements ensure plenty of cushioning and a bit of extra pushback for your torso and hips, making the mattress particularly appealing to side sleepers.
Why We Like It
After testing the SweetNight CoolNest, we've determined that side sleepers are strong candidates for this mattress. Thick foam layers adapt to the body to promote spinal alignment and soothe sore spots such as the shoulders and hips – common pressure zones when you're lying on your side. Back sleepers under 130 pounds may also find the mattress comfortable, but most people who use the back and/or stomach positions will need more reinforcement from their sleep surface. The CoolNest earned high marks for motion isolation, as well, so couples should be able to share the mattress and sleep soundly without movement-related sleep disruptions.
How Does It Feel?
With the CoolNest, you can choose from profiles of 12, 14, or 16 inches. All three are similarly crafted, and our team assigned each one a firmness level of medium (5) after concluding hands-on tests. Top layers of high-resilience polyfoam and gel-infused memory foam make the surface feel cushy and adaptive, and an additional memory foam layer adds to the plush feel while gently pushing back against your weight. Transitional polyfoam creates a buffer between your body and the support core, which contains dense foam "bars" that are zoned for extra midsection reinforcement. A knit polyester cover encases the mattress.
When looking for a new mattress that won’t break the bank, I recommend doing your homework and reading as many reviews as possible to make sure that you’ll end up with a bed that’ll work for you. I’d also look for brands that offer sleep trials and make sure to purchase during a sale.
What Do Sleepers on a Budget Need to Know for a Good Night’s Sleep?
Many factors contribute to a good night’s sleep, such as bedroom environment, pillows, and mattresses. However, a high-quality mattress doesn’t necessarily require spending a lot of money. We’ll cover the factors that determine mattress prices, how to save money on a mattress purchase, and why the right bed is a worthwhile investment. In the video below, we’ll also offer some hands-on tips for buying a mattress while on a budget.
How Much Should You Spend on a New Mattress?
Most shoppers prefer to find a mattress that meets their needs while falling comfortably within their budget. For planning purposes, the average mattress cost in a queen size is around $1,100 to $2,200. However, plenty of options are available both below and above this price range.
Several factors can influence the overall price. Mattress size makes a big difference. Smaller sizes, like twin and twin XL, are the most affordable since they use fewer materials.
The type of material also impacts the price, since higher-end components cost manufacturers more to use. For example, all-foam mattresses tend to cost less than latex or hybrid models. That said, a high price tag does not guarantee higher quality, just as a low price tag does not necessarily reflect lower quality.
Pros and Cons of Buying a Cheaper Mattress
While each mattress model is unique, be on the lookout for these potential benefits and drawbacks to ensure you get the best mattress for your money.
Pros
Approachable upfront cost
Lower cost to replace when the mattress wears out
Less financial risk if you’re unsure what’s best for you
May leave money left over for sleep accessories
Cons
Frequently less durable, which can shorten the usable lifespan
Might use lower-quality materials with reduced performance
May have less generous shipping, return, and warranty policies
What Should You Consider in a Cheap Mattress?
When you choose a mattress that’s affordably priced, it’s important to ensure it doesn’t sacrifice the features you need for a comfortable night’s sleep. We’ll break down the top things to look at when shopping for an affordable mattress.
Price
If you’re shopping for a mattress on a budget, the price is probably the first thing you’ll look at. Several factors can influence how much a mattress costs. Anything that costs manufacturers more will likely increase the sticker price for shoppers, including higher-end materials, larger mattress sizes, thicker designs, and more generous shipping, trial, and return policies. In addition, companies with brick-and-mortar stores often have to charge more to cover the costs of facilities.
Materials
Materials and pricing vary between mattress types, including foam, innerspring, hybrid, latex, and airbed models. Because of their more affordable materials, foam and innerspring mattresses tend to be the most budget-friendly.
Hybrids use more complex construction techniques, which often increases the price. Most latex models contain natural latex, which is relatively expensive, so they also tend to be on the higher end of the average price range. Airbeds are typically the most expensive due to their heavy-duty air chambers and built-in pumps.
Firmness
Budget-friendly mattresses come in a wide range of firmness options. Firmness is one of the most critical factors in overall comfort, but the ideal feel varies depending on your body type and sleep position preference.
Most sleepers prefer something close to the middle of the firmness range, around medium (5) or medium firm (6) on our 10-point firmness scale. However, side sleepers and individuals under 130 pounds typically need a softer surface for more contouring and pressure relief, whereas stomach sleepers and those over 230 pounds usually benefit from something a little firmer for even support.
Durability
The average mattress lasts around 7 to 10 years, though this varies depending on the mattress type, the quality of the materials, and the amount of wear and tear. Durability plays a significant role in overall value. If you purchase a cheap mattress that needs to be replaced within a few years, you may spend more over time. In contrast, a durable mattress that costs a little more may ultimately save you money by being comfortable for a longer period.
Budget-Friendly Tips for Buying a New Mattress
Shopping for a mattress isn’t easy, but it’s even more complicated if you’re trying to stay within a budget. We’ll share our tips to help you find the best budget mattress for you.
Do Your Research
Researching mattresses carefully can help you get the most for your money. For that reason, the best place to buy a mattress is often online. Buying a mattress online allows you to comparison shop, watch for sales, and avoid pressure from salespeople. If you prefer to shop in person, we recommend going in with a clear idea of what you’re looking for and how much you’re prepared to spend.
Look for Holiday Sales and Bundle Deals
Holidays are usually the best time to buy a mattress. There are often good mattress sales around holidays, which can shave a decent amount of money off the normal price.
If you’re looking for bedding or accessories, bundle deals can also be a good value. Some online mattress companies offer these additional items at a sharp discount with a mattress purchase. While buying everything at once increases the upfront cost, it may be more affordable than making separate purchases.
No one wants to be stuck with a mattress that doesn’t meet their needs, but it can be particularly problematic if you’re on a tight budget. Most online mattress companies offer sleep trials that allow customers to return the mattress if it isn’t as comfortable as they’d hoped. Similarly, if a defect arises, a warranty provides for mattress repairs or replacement so you don’t have to buy a new bed. Read the policies before making a purchase to learn the terms and conditions.
Account for Added Costs
If you’re setting up a bedroom from scratch, don’t forget to account for other costs associated with a new bed, such as bedding and a bed frame or other bed base.
It’s also worth reviewing the company’s shipping policy to see if there are shipping charges. Most online retailers offer free shipping, but fees may apply for some locations. Additionally, certain delivery options, such as in-home setup or expedited shipping, typically cost extra.
Finally, some mattress companies offer special features as add-ons to base models, such as a cooling cover or a pillow-top. While add-ons can make the mattress more comfortable for sleepers, they also increase the cost.
Discover More Mattress Solutions
While this guide outlines the best cheap mattresses across a variety of categories, our testing team also curated a list of the best cheap memory foam mattresses. We also put together a list of the best mattresses for the money at several price-points. And if you have a precise price range in mind, check out our dollar-specific mattress guides below.
Our in-house team of reviewers and sleep product experts has decades of collective experience in the industry. We’ve tested hundreds of mattresses using our product testing methodology, ranging from some of the lowest-priced options on the market to high-end designs.
With each mattress, testers of different body weights and sleep position preferences perform a series of standardized tests to give us a comprehensive overview of how each mattress performs. To choose our top picks for the best cheap mattresses, we looked at low-priced models with high performance ratings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest mattress type?
All-foam mattresses tend to be the cheapest, with traditional innerspring models coming in at a close second. You can also find affordably priced models with latex or hybrid designs, though the price-point is often a bit higher.
Is it better to buy an expensive mattress?
Whether it’s better to buy an expensive mattress depends on your needs, preferences, and budget. It’s often worth spending a little extra if you find a more durable model that better meets your needs.
An improved sleep experience and a longer lifespan might ultimately make a more expensive mattress a better value than an affordably priced alternative. That said, a quality lower-priced mattress may be ideal if you’re not planning on using the mattress long term or you anticipate your needs may change.
How long do cheap mattresses last?
While mattresses generally last 7 to 10 years, you may find that more affordable models have shorter lifespans, perhaps five to eight years in many cases. A budget mattress may last longer if you use it infrequently, rotate it regularly, or use a mattress protector.
When should you replace a mattress?
You should replace your mattress when it starts to negatively affect your sleep. If you notice sagging, lasting impressions, damaged areas, unusual noise, more aches and pains, or increased allergy symptoms, it may be a tipoff that it’s time for a new mattress.
When is the best time to buy a mattress?
Major shopping holidays are usually the best times to buy a new mattress at a discount. We typically see the best sales around New Year’s Day, Presidents Day, Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, Labor Day, Veterans Day, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday.
David is a Certified Sleep Science Coach with a lifelong passion for well-being and health optimization. His interest in sleep developed with the arrival of his son, when sleep suddenly became a precious commodity. Since then, David has researched everything from bedtime routines to mattress toppers in his quest for a great night’s sleep.
