Memory foam mattresses use a variety of cushioned foams to contour your body and relieve painful pressure points. Because of this, memory foam mattresses are the best choice for helping people with aches and pains to sleep more comfortably. Many of the top recommendations in our main best mattress buying guide are made from memory foam, so you have plenty of options available to you when choosing.
Our team of certified sleep experts has spent thousands of hours sleeping on and testing all the latest memory foam mattresses to bring you our top-rated recommendations here. We’ve also analyzed user reviews to see how existing customers rate these mattresses, and to gauge whether they think they're still good value for money years down the line.
So what is the best memory foam mattress of 2024? We still think it's the Nectar Classic medium-firm mattress in a box. We're testing the new version right now and can confirm that the edge support is better than on the original model, plus it's even better at dissipating heat – something other memory foam mattresses struggle with.
We expect many of this year's best memory foam mattresses to be reduced in price during this year’s Black Friday mattress deals and sales in November, so we’re entering a great time of year to buy. Read on now to discover which models we recommend buying and why...
1. The best memory foam mattress overall
Quick verdict: The Nectar Classic Memory Foam is a well-balanced, mid-range mattress that offers excellent pressure relief and support for your entire body. You don't completely sink into the mattress while you sleep, but the surface does contour to your joints to provide the hug-like, cushioned comfort you expect from memory foam.
Yes, it's not the most luxurious mattress in this guide — the Saatva Contour5 at #3 wins that accolade. But it takes the top spot thanks to its great value for money: the Nectar mattress performed well in all our tests, and is more affordable than many of its closest rivals.
Our testing panel found the Nectar Mattress comfortable for most sleep styles, and we rate it among the best mattresses for side sleepers that we've tried. We were also impressed with the Nectar's temperature regulation (although the Cocoon Chill at #5 is better for very hot sleepers), and while the edge support could be improved that's not unusual for an all-foam bed and it outperforms many of the others here.
If you're looking for a comfortable, supportive mattress that doesn't break the bank, the Nectar takes our award for the best memory foam mattress of 2024.
What we like about it...
✅ Good balance of softness and support: The medium-firm feel of the Nectar is firmer than many all-foam mattresses, but the cushioned build still provides ample pressure relief. It's a good middle ground for those who want a bit of a foam 'hug' but hate feeling trapped.
✅ Excellent for couples: We expect a memory foam mattress to absorb motion well, but the Nectar stands out for couples because it pairs this motion isolation with a medium-firm feel that suits different sleep styles. Less compromise, more happy sleepers.
✅ Good cooling for an all-foam mattress: We awarded the Nectar 4 out of 5 for temperature regulation, with the cooling cover keeping our hot sleeping tester comfortable overnight. It can't compete with the Cocoon Chill (#5) but avoids the sweaty nights that can plague all-foam mattresses.
What we don't like about it...
❌ Lacks support for back sleepers and heavy people: Our testers noticed that in some sleep positions (like on their backs) the Nectar had a tendency to sink at the hips. This can lead to lower back pain. The Puffy Cloud (#7) is better for dedicated back sleepers.
❌ Not a luxurious build: The Nectar Classic Mattress is our top memory foam choice because it provides a strong all-round performance at a good price — but it can't compare to the premium luxury of the Contour5 (#3) or the Tempur-Adapt (#6).
I've slept on both the original Nectar Classic and the new Nectar Classic Memory Foam Mattress, and I can really feel the difference. The new Nectar is a touch softer than the previous model, making it ideal for all sleeping positions now (before we rated it mostly for side and back sleepers). There's plenty of support here to keep your spine aligned in any sleeping position, and the contouring effect cushions your curves without making you feel like you're being sucked into the mattress. I think the Nectar Classic is fantastic value for money, and it's my top recommendation for anyone looking to buy a memory foam mattress online.
Read more: Nectar Mattress review
2. The best cheap memory foam mattress
Quick verdict: The Siena is a reliable, all-foam mattress that's made by Resident Home — the same company behind the Nectar Classic at #1. We think it's the best cheap mattress you can buy. Only the Zinus Memory Foam at #9 is cheaper in this guide, but the Siena is better quality.
Budget memory foam mattresses tend to fall into the same traps: not enough support and a tendency to sleep hot. Our testers found the Siena Memory Foam Mattress side-stepped both issues, with a firm feel that's surprisingly supportive for back and stomach sleepers. It also means you sleep on top of the mattress rather than sinking into it, which helps keep the bed cool. And with little bounce, the motion isolation is excellent too.
That firmness means you don't get the classic memory foam 'hug' of the other mattresses here (choose the Saatva at #3 if that's particularly important to you). But it's also very sturdy — it doesn't suffer from the sag that often afflicts cheaper all-foam models.
What we like about it...
✅ Sturdy edge support: Memory foam mattresses have a reputation for being weak at the sides, but the Siena is an exception to that rule. The firm feel continues all the way to the perimeter, giving you a solid base to press against. It's particularly useful if you have mobility issues and need to push out of bed.
✅ Comfortable for stomach sleepers: The best mattresses for stomach sleepers are typically hybrids, but the Siena is the rare all-foam bed with enough firm support to keep your hips elevated when lying on your front.
✅ A durable build: Cheap memory foams can often show dips and sags, but our testers felt the Siena Mattress has good longevity and should be comfortable to use for several years.
What we don't like about it...
❌ No classic foam 'hug': If you're shopping for a memory foam mattress, there's a good chance you want the sink-in feel we associate with all-foam beds. You won't get that with the Siena, as this is a mattress you lie on top of. The Zinus at #9 is better for marshmallow softness, while the Nectar is a good midpoint.
❌ Lacks some pressure relief: The Siena mattress doesn't offer much cushioning at the touch points, and while it softens with use, the pressure relief could be improved. The Nectar Memory Foam mattress at #1 is a better option if you tend to wake up with sore shoulders.
I've been testing memory foam mattresses for years so I know how rare it is to find one that performs as highly as this one did for the small price tag. The Siena Memory Foam Mattress aced nearly all of my team's in-house tests, punching above its weight in terms of support, motion isolation, temperature regulation and edge support. The latter surprised me because most foam mattresses I've slept on have pretty weak edge support. I did find the Siena Memory Foam much firmer than advertised though, so don't pick this mattress if you like a medium feel – I'd recommend the Nectar Classic above instead. But if you love firm mattresses and enjoy the feel of memory foam, the Siena is your best bet.
Read more: Siena Memory Foam Mattress review
3. The best luxury memory foam mattress
Quick verdict: The Saatva Contour5 is a premium memory foam mattress with a sumptuous finish akin to a five star hotel bed. Using dense high-quality foams to create a supportive hug feel, the Contour5 comes out on top for sheer quality — the only reason it isn't at number one is the hefty price tag.
With both a medium-firm and firm feel to choose from, the Contour5 can suit a range of sleep styles. Our testing panel found the thick foams comfortable from the very first night, with a cradling effect similar to the foams of the Tempur-Adapt (#6). Despite the pressure reliving hug, the Contour5 is able to maintain a cooler sleep feel. Perhaps not comparable to the Cocoon Chill (#5), but our lead tester never woke up sweating.
If you're looking for luxury, the Contour5 is untouchable. However, the high price tag can be an issue. The Saatva Loom & Leaf (Also tested) is a premium alternative, while the DreamCloud (#4) offers value for money quality, but you'll miss out on the Contour5's exceptional pressure relief.
What we like about it...
✅ A cooler 'hug': Saatva uses cooling phase change material (targeted to the lumbar region) to keep temperatures low during the night. It's not quite the cool feel of the Cocoon Chill (#5), but the Contour5 keeps you in a close hug that's cozy, not stuffy.
✅ Multiple firmness levels: The Contour5 is available in both a 'Medium' and 'Firm' feel, to suit more sleep positions. We tested the Medium and found it slightly firmer than expected but ideal for side sleeping. Front sleepers should consider the Firm instead.
✅ Sumptuous feel: Lie down on the Contour5 Mattress and it provides immediate comfortable cushioning — that's what our testers discovered, anyway. You can feel the quality in the foams as they contour to your joints.
What we don't like about it...
❌ Weak edge support: Weaker edges are common complaint of memory foam mattresses, but considering the price tag of the Loom & Leaf, we might expect something better. A hybrid like the DreamCloud (#4) should offer firmer support all-round.
❌ $99 return or exchange fee: The majority of the beds in this guide come with free returns, so the $99 fee from Saatva feels like a sore spot. It's not exactly a deal breaker — or that unusual, the Tempur-Adapt (#6) has a returns fee as well — but it is a frustration
It feels hard to justify the cost of the Saatva Contour5 at first, at full price, a queen is £2,995, especially as a queen Nectar Classic will often set you back just $649. But the Contour5 outshines most beds in this guide when it comes to design, durability and overall comfort. You can feel the quality in the dense foams, while the cooling technology ensures the Contour5 avoids the pitfalls of other all-foam beds. It can't beat the Nectar on price or benefits apart from shipping — Saatva offers free White Glove Delivery, compared to Nectar's standard free shipping — but if you have the budget I highly recommend the Contour5. If you sleep hot and have a small budget, I recommend the Cocoon Chill (#5) instead.
Read more: Saatva Contour5 Mattress review
4. The best hybrid memory foam mattress
Quick verdict: The DreamCloud Mattress uses multiple layers of memory foam to add a plush touch to a hybrid build (hybrid mattresses feature springs alongside foams). Offering luxury at a lower price, it's significantly cheaper than the Contour5 (above), the cashmere blend cover provides pressure relief, while sturdy springs and a medium-firm feel make it a supportive pick for back and stomach sleepers.
The DreamCloud is a strong all-rounder, although our side sleeping testers found it took a few weeks to break in (the Nectar at #1 offers comfort quicker). The springs give the DreamCloud a bouncier feel than an all-foam bed but, unfortunately, not the improved edge support we might expect from a hybrid — it trails behind the Siena (#2). But this is still an excellent example of how memory foam can enhance a hybrid bed, so if you're looking to transition from all-foam, this is a good entry model.
What we like about it...
✅ Well priced luxury: We often recommend the DreamCloud as a lower cost alternative to the Saatva Classic, our all-time favorite mattress. While the DreamCloud isn't quite as luxurious, it offers a competitive feel for much less.
✅ Supports back and stomach sleepers: Strong coils and dense foams work together to keep the lumbar region elevated, which is good news for back and stomach sleepers. Our stomach sleeping tester was particularly impressed with the lack of "hip dip", keeping their lower back pain free.
✅ Supportive for sleepers with bigger builds: The DreamCloud has a good weight capacity and a strong, supportive feel that meant our heavier tester could enjoy head-to-toe comfort.
What we don't like about it...
❌ No sink-in feel: The DreamCloud has some plushness thanks to the upper layers of memory foam, but this isn't a bed that 'hugs' the body. For a proper memory foam embrace, consider the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt (#6) or even the contouring of the Nectar (#1).
❌ Weaker edge support: Hybrid memory foam mattresses typically have stronger sides than all-foam alternatives, so the hit-and-miss edge support of the DreamCloud is disappointing. The Siena (#2) is all-foam but stronger at the sides.
❌ Needs breaking-in: It took some of our testers time to adjust to the DreamCloud, as it doesn't have the soft relief a side sleeper might expect. For a mattress that feels comfortable right away, consider the Puffy Cloud (#8).
Like the Nectar Classic (#1), the DreamCloud Hybrid Memory Foam was redesigned a few months ago. It's shorter at 12" (the older version was 14" tall) yet somehow packs in an extra layer. I highly rate DreamCloud mattresses and recommend the Hybrid Memory Foam to people who want a more responsive mattress (compared to all-foam beds) that still offers excellent pressure relief. The DreamCloud is the second highest-rated mattress my team has tested, and while you can buy it in a pure memory foam version, I think the Hybrid Memory Foam option is the most supportive. It keeps the spine aligned in all sleep positions, and gets rid of excess heat quickly for cooler sleep. My only gripe is that it takes a few weeks to break in, but once done it's seriously comfortable.
Read more: DreamCloud Mattress review
5. The best cheap cooling memory foam mattress
Quick verdict: The Cocoon by Sealy Chill mattress is an all-foam bed that uses a phase-change material cover to wick away heat and sweat. As a budget-friendly all-foam mattress, our testers were initially skeptical of the Cocoon's cooling abilities. But after a few weeks sleeping on it, we agreed this is one of the best cooling mattresses around.
The stand-out feature is this phase change cover, which absorbs heat for cooler nights. It can't quite compare to the premium cooling of the GhostBed Luxe in our Also Tested section, but on the other hand, the Cocoon by Sealy Chill is more than half the price. With a similar, if slightly firmer, feel to the Nectar at #1 the Cocoon Chill suits most sleep styles, but side sleepers might prefer the plusher Saatva Contour5 (#3). For hot sleepers who enjoy the pressure relief of memory foam — and can't stretch their budget to a premium option — the Cocoon by Sealy Chill mattress is our top pick.
What we like about it...
✅ A cooler feel on a budget: Cooling mattresses are typically premium beds, but the Cocoon by Sealy Chill offers high-quality temperature regulation at a mid-range price.
✅ Comfortable for most sleep positions: The Cocoon Chill has a medium-firm feel with good pressure relief that will suit most sleep styles. If you have a bigger build, you'll probably feel more comfortable lying on your front or back.
✅ Eases back pain: The Cocoon Chill holds the lumbar region in a comfortable neutral alignment and the cooling is another bonus — you're less likely to toss and turn (potentially aggravating an injury) if you're a comfortable temperature.
What we don't like about it...
❌ Limited contouring: The Cocoon Chill does gently adapt to your frame, but there isn't the classic 'hug' you might expect from memory foam. If you want a squishy embrace that doesn't sleep hot, consider the Contour5 at #3 (but be prepared to pay more).
❌ Too warm for seriously hot sleepers: If you struggle with night sweats or hot flashes, the Cocoon Chill might not provide the specialist cooling you need. Upgrading to the hybrid version will enhance cooling, otherwise, consider the GhostBed Luxe (Also Tested) for a softer feel with even better temperature regulation.
I'm a hot sleeper so I'm naturally wary of memory foam mattresses (I've tested far too many that transform into mini ovens within an hour of sleeping on them). The Cocoon by Sealy Chill Memory Foam is an outlier on two fronts: one being that it dissipates heat well, and this down to its use of gel memory foam and a cover infused with heat-wicking Phase Change Material. It's also an outlier because it does all that cooling (in addition to reducing painful pressure points along the body) for a fraction of the average cost of a queen size mattress ($699 plus $179 of free bedding). By the way, it's always 35% off – so don't feel rushed to buy it if you need more time to consider your purchase.
Read more: Cocoon by Sealy Chill Mattress review
6. The best memory foam mattress for back pain
Quick verdict: If you want a classic memory foam feel, you'll find buckets of it with the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt mattress. Tempur Materials are the original memory foam, with a cushioned feel that immediately contours to your body. A strong supportive core makes the Tempur-Adapt good for front and back sleepers, and our sleeper with back pain felt relive as soon as their lumbar touched the mattress. That's why it's our top all-foam bed for back pain sufferers.
The Tempur-Adapt has a comparable feel and price tag to the luxurious Contour5 (#3), but without the options (or the cooling) of its rival. However, Tempur Material is known for its unique feel and, for many, the slow-moving foam is worth the investment. The ZInus (#9) has a similar squishiness, but honestly, it can't compare.
What we like about it...
✅ Pressure relief at the lumbar region: Tempur Material foams are known for their cushioned 'hug', and with the Tempur-Adapt you'll get this marshmallow softness across your lower back, reducing pressure for fewer aches and pains.
✅ Comfortable for back and stomach sleepers: It's not all about the cushioning with the Tempur-Adapt, as a layer of dense foam at the base of the mattress keeps your spine from sinking too far. Back and front sleepers should feel well supported.
✅ Top quality motion isolation: We expect good motion isolation from a memory foam mattress, but the Tempur-Adapt goes above and beyond. Our testers found the Tempur-Adapt able to "absorb virtually every movement".
What we don't like about it...
❌ Sleeps very warm: Our lead tester sleeps warm and regularly found herself waking up sweaty after a night on the Tempur-Adapt Mattress. The Cocoon by Sealy Chill (#5) and GhostBed Luxe (Also Tested) are both specialist cooling foam beds, but even the significantly cheaper Nectar (#1) stays cooler overnight.
❌ No options: Unlike the similarly priced Saatva Contour5 (#3), the Tempur-Adapt is available in just one firmness option. Unless you want to pay to upgrade, that is. The ProAdapt is around $1,000 more for a queen, but you can choose between soft, medium, or firm feels.
❌ Lacks support for side sleepers: Our side-sleeping testers had mixed results with the Tempur-Adapt. Some felt it too firm at the shoulder, others too soft at the hip, and one found it took a while to get comfortable. The Tempur-Cloud and Leesa Original (Also tested) are better for side sleepers.
Tempur-Pedic mattresses are like Marmite: half of my team love the way they feel, half hate it. Personally, I rate Tempur-Pedic beds. I slept on a Tempur foam mattress during the third trimester of my pregnancy, when I was dealing with excruciating hip and lower back pain, and it was the only thing that helped me feel comfortable enough to actually sleep. That's also the level of comfy pressure relief you can expect from the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt. This is our best-rated memory foam mattress for back pain, with my lead tester getting instant relief the moment she laid on it. There is a downside though: it retains heat, so you'll need to consider an alternative (such as the Cocoon by Sealy above, which is also cheaper) if you have night sweats or hot flashes.
Read more: Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt mattress review
7. Best memory foam mattress for back sleepers
Quick verdict: The Puffy Cloud Mattress has a firmer feel, counterbalanced by a plush quilted surface. After a month of testing we rate it the best memory foam mattress for back sleepers because it delivers support to the entire lumbar region while cradling the touch points to prevent pressure build up.
Our testers rate the Puffy Cloud Mattress as medium-firm, with minimal sink. This allows the spine to rest at a neutral angle when in a back sleeping position, for fewer aches and pains. Side sleepers should also get on with the Puffy Cloud, as the quilted top provides a lot of pressure relief at the shoulders and hip. However, particularly lightweight sleepers might prefer the Nectar (#1). Also, while the Puffy Cloud offers support across the body, the edges are weaker.
But beyond average edge support, we found the Puffy Cloud is enjoyable to sleep on, with that initial comfort cushioning giving way to stable support for back sleepers.
What we like about it...
✅ Medium-firm support: The Puffy Cloud has a firmer feel for a memory foam mattress, similar to the Nectar (#1) and Siena (#2). Your back will feel supported from the neck down, with none of the dipping and twisting that can occur when you’re sucked into a softer mattress.
✅ Cushioned pressure relief: Upper layers of felted fiber and contouring memory foam ensure you feel comfortable the second you lie down on the Puffy Cloud, relieving pressure where the body pushes into the bed. It’s a cheaper alternative to the Tempur-Adapt (#6).
✅ Cool to the touch feel: All-foam beds can trap heat, which can aggravate back pain by causing you to toss and turn. The Puffy Cloud cover feels refreshingly cool and maintains a neutral feel during the night.
What we don't like about it...
❌ Strangely slippery cover: If you hate making the bed in the morning, watch out for the slippery effect of the Puffy Cloud cover. Our testers found the sheets often came loose during the night. But the bigger issue with the silky surface relates to edge support...
❌ Lacks support at the edges: Balance on the edge of the Puffy Cloud and you might feel like you're going to slide off. By itself, the edge support is average for an all-foam bed, but add on the slippery cover and things become a little more precarious.
The Puffy Cloud delivers an excellent balance of comfort and support. The breathable cover feels plush (albeit a little slippery), while the comfortable pressure-relief foam promotes good spinal alignment. It's great for back sleepers who don't want a super sink-in mattress, but still need cushioning at pressure points.
Read more: Puffy Cloud Mattress review
8. Best memory foam mattress for joint pain
Quick verdict: The Purple Original Mattress isn't your standard memory foam bed, but that's why it stands out as our top pick for joint pain. Sitting alongside the layers of foam you'll find the Purple USP: a GelFlex Grid that uses hyper elastic polymer to mold to the joints and create an almost weightless pressure relief.
Sitting just beneath the cover of the mattress, the GelFlex Grid gives the Purple Original a unique feel. One that it took our review panel some time to get used to. However, after an adjustment period, the GelFlex Grid comes into its own. It's soft where you need cushioning, firm where you need support, and quick to respond if you toss and turn. There isn't the plush finish of other memory foams, including the taller Purple Plus (#9), but there's buckets of pressure relief for aching joints.
Our testers described the Purple Mattress as akin to "floating on air". If that sounds like something your joints might appreciate, this is the bed for you.
What we like about it...
✅ Responds to your movement: The Purple GelFlex Grid moves as you move, and the geometric shaping allows it to closely contour to your body. This allows the mattress to cradle every joint, and when you move, it moves quickly to embrace your new position.
✅ "Floating" relief: Overall, the Purple Original has a medium firm feel, but that doesn't quite describe the effect. It's squishy in some places and gently firm in others, depending on the pressure. That makes it supportive for a range of sleep styles, as well as providing the "floating" feel your joints will appreciate.
✅ Good air circulation: Unlike dense foam, the grid provides open spaces for hot air to circulate and cool. In this way, it's similar to the breathable feel of a memory foam hybrid (like the DreamCloud at #4). Our testers found that hardly any heat got trapped overnight.
What we don't like about it...
❌ Odd sleep feel: Expect to take some time getting used to the Purple Mattress, as the GelFlex Grid has a noticeable feel. For some people, this unusual sleep surface will never be quite right. If you want a more traditional memory foam at a similar price, try the Leesa Original Mattress (#7).
❌ On the thin side: The Purple Original is just 9.25 inches tall, which is under the 10-inch recommended mattress thickness for adults. We still think adults will feel supported by the bed, but in comparison, the Nectar (#1) and Saatva Loom & Leaf (#3) are both 12 inches tall.
I recommend the Purple Mattress to sleepers with joint pain who don't mind a few initially uncomfortable nights in the pursuit of comfort. Our testing panel needed some time to get used to the feel, but soon feel in love with the "floating" pressure relief. The responsive support suits a range of sleep styles, although the thinner build might not be ideal for lightweight side sleepers and those with a bigger build.
Read more: Purple Original Mattress review
9. Best memory foam mattress on Amazon
Quick verdict: The Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress is an entry level all-foam mattress. The simple build helps keep the overall price low, but don't worry, Zinus doesn't skimp when it comes to cushioned pressure relief. For side sleepers, the Zinus Memory Foam Mattress offers a dreamy all night 'hug'.
Compared to the similarly priced Siena (#2), the Zinus does have some of the pitfalls we expect from a cheap memory foam. The support is soft at the edges, while the foams trap heat in the night. And while the overall quality is decent, expect reduced durability. However, this is an Amazon best seller for a reason, and that reason is it's deep relief at a low price from a convenient marketplace.
However, what the Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress does best is cushioning on a budget, and if that's what you need, this is a reliable choice.
What we like about it...
✅ Plenty of cushioned pressure relief: You sink into the soft upper layers of the Zinus Memory Foam Mattress, as the foams contour to your shape to improve weight distribution and alleviate pressure. It's particularly notable at the shoulder and hips.
✅ Absorbs most motion: The slow-moving Zinus foams capture movement to keep it trapped to one part of the mattress. Your partner could jump up and down on their side of the bed and you'd hardly feel it.
✅ A classic foam feel: The all-foam Zinus delivers the 'hug' feel that defines memory foam for many of us. It's a cuddle in a mattress, contouring to your shape to hold you comfortably overnight.
What we don't like about it...
❌ Too soft for back and stomach sleepers: There's a slight quicksand effect to the Zinus, which allows your lower back to sink deeper into the mattress. The Siena (#2) is similarly priced and offers much more support for those who lie on their front or back.
❌ Very weak edges: Our lead tester found they lacked stability when lying on the edge of the Zinus Memory Foam Mattress, and you can feel the sides sag when you press against them. Weak edges aren't unusual for an all-foam bed, but try the DreamCloud (#4) for more support to the perimeter.
❌ Lacks some durability: Customer reviews indicate that the Zinus Memory Foam Mattress can show some signs of sagging after a few years of use. This isn't a surprise for cheap foam, but if you can afford to upgrade to the Nectar (#1), expect improved longevity.
The Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress is an inexpensive bed that delivers good comfort for the price tag. I recommend it for side sleepers — if you're a front or back sleeper, the Siena is a better choice — and plenty of cushioning can help you avoid numb hips and shoulders. Just make sure you don't sleep too close to the edge.
Read more: Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress review
Also tested
Our sleep experts and experienced reviewers have tested a lot of memory foam mattresses, and every bed in this guide comes recommended by our team. Below are the mattresses we reviewed that received good marks, but were outperformed by the options above.
Best memory foam mattress 2024 review scores: At a glance
| Mattress | Our score | Header Cell - Column 2 | User score | Header Cell - Column 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nectar Classic | ★★★★½ | Generated from a three-week testing period, with our lead reviewer sleeping on a twin size. Currently being re-tested in a queen size. | ★★★★½ | Averaged from over 50,000 reviews at Nectar Sleep, 82,000 at Mattress Warehouse, 2,400 at OVC, and 7,500 at Amazon. |
| Siena Memory Foam | ★★★★ | Generated from a three-week testing period, with our lead reviewer sleeping on a twin size. Currently being re-tested in a queen size. | ★★★★½ | Averaged from over 2,600 reviews at Siena Sleep and over 560 at Amazon. |
| Saatva Contour5 | ★★★★½ | Generated from a three-week testing period, with our lead reviewer sleeping on a king size. | ★★★★★ | Averaged from a handful of reviews at Saatva at Saatva. No third-party reviews and a new mattress release — we'll update when more reviews are available. |
| DreamCloud Hybrid Memory Foam | ★★★★½ | Generated from an initial three-week testing period, followed by three consecutive months of sleeping on a twin and a queen size (dual testers). | ★★★★½ | Averaged from over 8,900 reviews at DreamCloud, over 1,900 at Amazon, over 13,400 at Mattress Firm, and 1,400 at Walmart. |
| Cocoon by Sealy Chill | ★★★★ | Generated from a two-week testing period, with our lead reviewer sleeping on a queen size. Currently being retested to gather data for a longer review period of 30 nights. | ★★★★½ | Averaged from over 7,800 reviews at Cocoon. No third party retailer user reviews available. |
| Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt | ★★★★½ | Generated from a three-week testing period, with our lead reviewer sleeping on a twin size. | ★★★★ | Averaged from over 3,000 reviews at Tempur-Pedic, over 2,900 reviews at Mattress Warehouse, and 145 at Amazon. |
| Puffy Cloud | ★★★★ | Generated from a three-week testing period, with our lead reviewer sleeping on a king size mattress with a medium-firm feel. | ★★★★½ | Averaged from over 12,000 reviews at Puffy however all Puffy mattress reviews are fed into one group so it's hard to separate them. |
| Purple Original | ★★★★ | Generated from a two-week testing period, with our lead reviewer sleeping on a queen size. | ★★★★½ | Averaged from over 29,000 reviews at Purple however all Purple mattress reviews are fed into one group so it's hard to separate them. |
| Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam | ★★★½ | Generated from a four-week testing period, with our lead reviewer sleeping on a full size. | ★★★★ | Averaged from over 1,700 reviews at Zinus, over 77,000 reviews at Amazon, and 700 at Walmart. |
How we test memory foam mattresses
At Tom's Guide, we are consistently researching and testing new memory foam mattresses so we can recommend the best ones. Our review process is editorially independent, and our team of expert testers use a set criteria to ensure you get a well-rounded, unbiased opinion. Only the very best memory foam mattresses make it into this guide.
We test all memory foam mattresses in these key performance areas: support, comfort, pressure relief, motion isolation, temperature control, edge support, and build quality. Each mattress is tested by one lead tester, with a further testing panel consisting of people with different sleep styles and body types also trying the bed to provide a range of opinions.
After a testing period of at least three weeks, we compile our results into a review. We also analyze customer reviews to identify potential areas for concern or praise that are affecting the wider user base. You can learn more about our testing process on our mattress methodology page.
Memory foam mattress FAQs
How to choose the right memory foam mattress
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.
When choosing a memory foam mattress, the first thing to consider is your dominant sleep position. Side sleepers need lots of cushioning, which is something memory foam generally does well. Back and stomach sleepers tend to need stronger support alongside any cushioning.
Your body type is also an important factor. Memory foam mattresses can be suitable for bigger bodies, but it's important to choose one that provides enough support to keep you comfortable from head to toe.
There are some common issues with cheaper memory foam mattresses: they tend to lack the cooling abilities of hybrid beds (hot air struggles to circulate in dense foam), and the edges are often weaker.
But that's not to say all memory foam mattresses have these problems. If you're a hot sleeper, we recommend looking for cooling features, such as gel foams and breathable covers. And if you have mobility issues and need a strong side to push against when getting out of bed, look for a mattress with firmer support that can be felt all the way across the bed.
Our best advice is to pick a bed with a sleep trial: this way you can ensure your mattress meets all your needs. If it isn't, you can return it (usually for free). Just remember that it can take a while to get used to a new mattress, particularly if you're switching from a traditional spring bed to an all-foam, so sleep on it for at least three weeks before you make a decision.
How long does a memory foam mattress last?
A memory foam mattress can last for up to 10 years, which is when we recommend replacing your mattress. The average lifespan is around six to 10 years. After this, you might notice your mattress starts sagging, and the foams retain the dips where you've been lying on the bed.
You can extend the life of your memory foam mattress by caring it for it properly. We have advice on how to clean a mattress, while some brands recommend rotating your foam bed to delay sagging.
A mattress warranty can help you better understand the potential lifespan of your mattress. 10 years is considered a standard warranty, but some brands, such as Nectar and Saatva, offer a lifetime warranty. This indicates they have a lot of faith in the integrity of their materials.
What is the best depth for a memory foam mattress?
We recommend a mattress thickness of at least 10 inches for an adult. A mattress this tall should be able to accommodate the layers needed for both comfort and support, and it shouldn't feel like you could sink through the foam and out the other side.
Thicker, plusher mattresses are often recommended for side sleepers, as they have ample cushioning where the body presses against the bed. But that doesn't mean you can't get comfortable on a shorter mattress: the Leesa Original is great for side sleepers and just 10 inches tall.
Shorter mattresses can have enough support for adults, but they need high quality materials to achieve this (the Purple Original is a good example). Budget mattresses under 10 inches tall are often better for guest rooms or children.
What density of memory foam is best?
Foam density is an often overlooked attribute of a good memory foam mattress. As a general rule, high-density foams are more comfortable and have better durability than low-density foams. A good memory foam density is around 2.5lb, with 1.5lb being the acceptable minimum. Some luxury mattresses feature even denser foam (3lb and above), but you'll have to pay more for this increased density.
High-density foams offer durable cushioning, while low-density foams are more likely to start sagging after just a few years of use. However, foam density doesn't change the firmness of the mattress: a 3lb foam can be soft or firm.
Unfortunately, finding foam density figures can be tricky. If you're curious about the density, try checking the specs or contacting the brand directly. While we don't factor the exact density into our reviews, we do consider the overall durability of the mattress before making our recommendations.
Memory foam vs hybrid mattress: Key differences
Memory foam mattresses consist of multiple foam layers, with memory foam often used as an upper comfort layer. Like memory foam mattresses, hybrids also use comfort layers, but these sit on top of a layer (or layers) of springs.
Memory foam mattresses typically have a 'sink-in' feel. They're known for pressure relief and motion isolation, but they do have a reputation for weaker edges and average temperature control. The use of springs typically gives hybrid beds stronger edges and better temperature control, but they're also bouncier, without the 'hug' of foam.
In this guide, alongside all-foam mattresses we've also included memory foam hybrids, such as the DreamCloud. These mattresses pair springs with memory foam layers for a bed that balances cushioning with bounce.
Other hybrid mattresses, including some of the choices in our best hybrid mattress guide, use different materials as comfort layers. This includes latex foam and wool.
