The Best Cheap Mattresses

Finding a mattress that balances comfort, durability, and affordability can feel daunting, especially when so many low-cost options cut corners on materials or support. The good news is that a quality night’s sleep doesn’t have to come with a premium price tag. With the right pick, it’s possible to get dependable construction, cooling features, and long-lasting comfort at a fraction of the cost of luxury models.

For this guide, we focused on mattresses that prove budget-friendly doesn’t have to mean bare-bones. These selections stand out for their ability to provide solid support and comfort across a range of sleeping positions, while still fitting into tighter budgets. Whether the goal is to outfit a guest room, upgrade a dorm setup, or simply save money without sacrificing rest, these mattresses show that affordability and quality can go hand in hand.

Zinus Cooling Comfort Hybrid Mattress

Best Overall Option

A balanced hybrid with cooling foams and pocketed coils, offering dependable comfort and support at one of the best values in its class.

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The Zinus Cooling Comfort Support Hybrid Mattress is easily one of the best cheap mattresses for shoppers seeking comfort, support, and quality construction without overspending. This hybrid design pairs foam layers with individually wrapped coils, creating a bed that feels supportive and springy while still offering a cloudlike pillow top. The result is a mattress that provides a good balance of cushioning and responsiveness, with a bit of bounce that many sleepers will appreciate. Its firm base helps with ease of movement, making position changes at night feel natural and uncomplicated.

Zinus has built a strong reputation for offering affordable mattresses that don’t skimp on materials. The Cooling Comfort model incorporates CertiPUR-US-certified foams, which meet strict durability and emissions standards. The top foam layer gives a plush surface feel, while the gel-infused memory foam below works to relieve pressure and regulate temperature. A transition foam layer adds stability and contouring support before the mattress transitions into its coil system. The coils provide airflow, spinal alignment, and durability, while the breathable knitted cover, made of OEKO-TEX-certified fabric, rounds out the design.

This mattress is available in multiple sizes, from twin to California king, and comes in a range of thicknesses between 6 and 14 inches. For most adults, the 10- to 12-inch versions strike the best balance of comfort and support, as thinner beds often lack sufficient reinforcement. The mattress ships conveniently in a compact box and expands quickly once unwrapped. While it may have a faint “new mattress” scent initially, this typically fades within hours, leaving behind only the comfort of the bed itself.

One of the highlights of the Zinus Cooling Comfort Hybrid is its strong cooling performance. Gel-infused foam and breathable coils help dissipate body heat quickly, preventing the uncomfortable buildup of warmth that can interrupt rest. For hot sleepers looking for an affordable mattress, this makes the Zinus particularly appealing. Few options in this price category deliver such effective temperature regulation, which helps explain why it frequently appears in guides to the best cooling mattresses.

Performance in other areas is more mixed. Edge support is only average, compressing slightly more than some competitors when sitting or lying near the side. Motion isolation is also a weaker point. The pocketed coils don’t absorb movement as well as expected, so couples may notice disruptions when one partner shifts in bed. On the other hand, the added bounce is a benefit for those who like a mattress with responsiveness, especially when compared to dense all-foam designs.

In terms of firmness, the Zinus Cooling Comfort Hybrid leans firmer than advertised, closer to a medium-firm feel. This makes it better suited for back and stomach sleepers who benefit from the extra support. Side sleepers, especially those who are lighter in weight, may find that the bed lacks the pressure relief needed to fully cushion the shoulders and hips. Heavier side sleepers, however, may appreciate the balance of contouring and firmness more than average-weight individuals.

Zinus supports this mattress with a 100-night trial period, allowing buyers to test it at home and return it if unsatisfied. It also comes with a 10-year limited warranty that covers certain defects in workmanship or materials. While warranty terms require proper use of the mattress and exclude coverage for some conditions, this level of protection is strong for a mattress at such a low price point. For added peace of mind, the company also offers clear options for mattress removal at checkout, though setup services are not included.

Ultimately, the Zinus Cooling Comfort Support Hybrid Mattress delivers a lot of value for its price. With its combination of supportive coils, cooling foams, and overall durability, it’s a solid choice for budget-conscious shoppers who want a mattress that feels substantial without reaching luxury-level prices. Although motion isolation and edge support fall short compared to higher-end hybrids, the balance of comfort, breathability, and affordability make it one of the top contenders in the cheap mattress category.

Casper Sleep Element Mattress

Best Upgrade Option

This medium-firm memory-foam mattress offers a noticeable upgrade in quality and comfort for a slightly higher price than basic budget options.

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The Casper Sleep Element is one of the most accessible mattresses from one of the biggest names in the bed-in-a-box market. Designed with simplicity in mind, it is a 10-inch all-foam mattress built to deliver dependable comfort at an affordable price. Its two-layer construction focuses on the essentials: cushioning on top and sturdy support underneath. The result is a medium-firm surface that balances softness and structure, making it appealing for a wide range of sleepers while staying budget friendly.

At the top of the Element is Casper’s proprietary AirScape foam, a breathable, perforated material that promotes airflow and helps prevent overheating. This foam layer has a soft, pressure-relieving feel, contouring lightly to the body while resisting the deep sink of traditional memory foam. Underneath, a base layer of high-density polyfoam provides durability and stability. Together, these layers create a supportive surface that works especially well for back and stomach sleepers who need their hips and shoulders aligned.

Motion isolation is another strength of the Element. The dense foams absorb movement efficiently, making it a practical choice for couples who share a bed. While the surface has a touch of responsiveness, the mattress is not overly bouncy, so restless partners are less likely to disturb each other. Cooling performance is above average for a foam mattress, thanks to the AirScape perforations, though very hot sleepers may still prefer a hybrid with coil airflow.

For combination sleepers who change positions during the night, the Element offers enough adaptability to remain comfortable in multiple postures. Side sleepers may find it a bit firm if they need extra cushioning at the shoulders and hips, while heavier individuals above 250 pounds may want more reinforcement than the two-layer build can provide. That said, the Element hits a sweet spot for average-weight sleepers looking for affordable, everyday comfort.

Edge support is one area where the mattress falls short. Like many all-foam designs, the perimeter compresses more noticeably when sitting or lying near the edge. Couples who like to use the full sleep surface may feel slightly less stable along the sides compared to what a hybrid or reinforced model could offer.

Unboxing the Casper Element is straightforward. It arrives compressed and rolled in a box, making it easier to maneuver through hallways and staircases. Once unwrapped, the mattress expands quickly, though it may take up to 24 hours to fully settle. Some initial off-gassing is expected, but the mild odor fades within a day or two in a well-ventilated room.

Casper supports the Element with a 100-night sleep trial and a 10-year limited warranty, providing reassurance for buyers who want to test it risk-free. These policies are generous for a budget-friendly mattress and reflect the brand’s reputation for customer-friendly service.

At the end of the day, the Casper Sleep Element offers some of the strongest value in the market by delivering reliable comfort, solid motion isolation, and a balanced medium-firm feel at a competitive price. While it may not provide the edge support or long-term durability of higher-end hybrids, it is a dependable option for budget-conscious sleepers, couples, and anyone seeking a straightforward foam mattress that prioritizes everyday performance over unnecessary extras.

Novilla Bliss Memory Foam Mattress

Best for Motion Isolation

This mattress features gel-infused foam that contours closely to the body while minimizing partner disturbance, creating a calm and pressure-relieving sleep surface.

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The Novilla Bliss Memory Foam Mattress is one of the most affordable ways to experience the classic body-hugging comfort of memory foam. Built entirely from foam layers, it contours closely to your body, cushioning pressure points at the shoulders, hips, and lower back. This makes it especially appealing for those who want a Tempur-Pedic–like feel without the premium price. At around $300 for a king size, it represents exceptional value for budget-conscious shoppers seeking a reliable bed-in-a-box option.

Construction begins with a soft, breathable cover made from hypoallergenic charcoal and bamboo fabric, which is both removable and washable. Underneath, a gel-infused memory foam comfort layer provides pressure relief and helps regulate temperature. This is followed by transition foams that balance sinkage with subtle responsiveness, while the high-density base foam delivers overall support and durability. The Novilla Bliss is available in 8, 10, and 12-inch profiles, allowing sleepers to choose the thickness that best suits their comfort and support needs.

Performance-wise, the mattress excels in motion isolation, making it a strong choice for couples who want to minimize sleep disturbances. The stable, non-bouncy surface absorbs movement well, ensuring a calm night’s rest even if a partner shifts or gets up during the night. Pressure relief is another strong point, particularly for side and back sleepers who benefit from the cradling comfort of memory foam. On the other hand, stomach sleepers and individuals over 250 pounds may find it too soft, as hips are more likely to sink and cause misalignment.

Cooling is better than average for a budget memory foam bed thanks to the gel infusion, but the Novilla Bliss can still retain warmth for some hot sleepers. Edge support is modest, which is expected for an all-foam model at this price point, and those who prefer a firmer perimeter may want to look at hybrid alternatives. For couples, the Bliss offers the benefit of quiet sleep and reduced motion transfer, but its deep sinkage may not provide the responsiveness some look for.

The Novilla Bliss comes with a 100-night trial and a 10-year limited warranty, giving buyers added reassurance when trying it out at home. Since it ships compressed in a box, it requires up to 24 hours to fully expand. A brief off-gassing smell may occur, but it is harmless and dissipates quickly in a well-ventilated room.

All in all, the Novilla Bliss shines as a budget-friendly option that still manages to deliver comfort, pressure relief, and reliable motion isolation. It is best suited for side and back sleepers who appreciate the contouring qualities of memory foam, and for couples who want a mattress that minimizes disruptions during the night. While it lacks the durability and edge reinforcement of more expensive hybrids, it’s a solid choice for those who want a comfortable, affordable mattress without unnecessary extras.

Siena Premier Hybrid Mattress

Best Edge Support

A firmer hybrid with reinforced perimeter coils for stability and a supportive feel across the full surface, backed by a lengthy trial.

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The Siena Premier Hybrid Mattress is designed to bring a more premium feel to the affordable mattress-in-a-box category. At 10 inches thick, it combines gel memory foam, supportive polyfoam, and a coil system to deliver balanced comfort. The result is a medium-firm sleep surface that provides pressure relief, support, and a touch of bounce, making it versatile enough for back, side, and stomach sleepers. Despite its accessible price point, the Siena Premier Hybrid presents itself as a more polished and substantial option than many budget competitors.

Inside, the mattress features three key layers: a 1.5-inch gel memory foam top for cushioning and cooling, a 2-inch support foam layer for transition, and a 7-inch system of individually wrapped coils. The perimeter is reinforced with thicker coils for added edge support, making the mattress feel stable when sitting or lying near the edges. This structural design also enhances airflow, helping to maintain a temperature-neutral sleep environment. The cover, made from polyester, includes side handles for easier rotation and handling.

In terms of firmness, Siena rates this hybrid at a 7 out of 10, but it often feels closer to an 8, placing it in the medium-firm to firm category. While this level of support works well for many, side sleepers who need deeper contouring at the hips and shoulders may find it less plush than expected. Back and stomach sleepers, on the other hand, are likely to benefit from the firmer profile, which helps maintain alignment and reduce sagging in the midsection.

Edge support is one of the mattress’s strongest qualities. Thanks to reinforced perimeter coils, sleepers can comfortably use the entire surface of the bed without feeling unstable near the sides. This design makes the Siena Premier Hybrid a good fit for those who like to spread out or sit on the edge of the bed. However, motion isolation is less impressive. The coil system contributes to responsiveness, but it also means that movements travel across the surface, which could be disruptive for light sleepers sharing the bed.

For couples, the Siena Premier Hybrid offers a mix of pros and cons. Its bounce and responsiveness make it easy to move around, but the lower motion isolation may cause disruptions during the night. On the other hand, for solo sleepers or partners who aren’t easily disturbed, the balance of comfort, support, and breathability makes it an appealing option.

Delivery and setup are straightforward, with the mattress shipped compressed in a box. Once unwrapped, it begins expanding immediately and is typically ready for use within 24 hours. Off-gassing is minimal and tends to dissipate quickly. Siena backs the mattress with a 180-night trial and a 10-year warranty, offering buyers peace of mind and ample time to evaluate whether it fits their needs.

Overall, the Siena Premier Hybrid Mattress stands out as a budget-friendly hybrid that looks and feels more expensive than it is. With solid edge support, durable construction, and a supportive medium-firm profile, it is particularly well suited for back and stomach sleepers or anyone seeking a stable, temperature-neutral mattress. While it may not contour deeply enough for some side sleepers and falls short in motion isolation, it delivers impressive quality at a price point that makes it highly competitive in the cheap mattress category.

When it comes to budget mattresses, it’s important to recognize the trade-offs that come with a lower price tag. Most beds under $500 rely on simpler foam constructions that skip premium extras like zoned support systems or specialty cooling fabrics. While these add-ons can sound appealing, many don’t significantly affect sleep quality, meaning a well-made affordable mattress can still provide comfort and support without the extra cost. The biggest consideration is durability, since cheaper foams are more prone to sagging and body impressions over time, particularly for heavier individuals.

Customer service and transparency are also areas where budget brands may fall short, so it’s worth factoring in warranty terms, trial periods, and brand reputation before making a purchase. Still, for those seeking a practical solution, these mattresses can be an excellent value. Whether outfitting a guest room, setting up a dorm, or furnishing a short-term space, the right affordable option can deliver solid performance and restful sleep. While they won’t rival the longevity of high-end models, cheap mattresses remain a smart choice when comfort and affordability matter most.