- We chose the Plank Firm Luxe as the “Best Overall Firm Mattress” because it has a unique flippable design, offering two levels of firmness in one mattress. It also provides a high level of functional support for good spinal spinal alignment and mobility.
- Military personnel, first responders, educators, students, and health care professionals get 30% off. Eligibility is verified through ID.ME.
Best Firm Mattress of 2024
Personal preference is crucial when selecting a mattress, but sleeping position and body type are also important to consider. For instance, the best firm mattress will offer substantial support and can help the spine stay aligned, making them especially good for back and stomach sleepers. [1] Tung-Ho Hong T. Influence of Mattress Stiffness on Spinal Curvature and Intervertebral Disc Stress—An Experimental and Computational Study. Biology. July 8, 2022.
“I recommend firmer mattresses for my patients with back issues,” said Kevin Nelson, a Denver, Colorado-based chiropractor. “They do a better job of keeping the spine positioned properly.”
Good sleep is a key component of health maintenance and disease prevention for everyone. [2] Kannan R, et al. Sleep is Essential to Health: An American Academy of Sleep Medicine Position Statement. Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine. Oct. 1, 2021 If you’re looking for a firm mattress, we’ve rounded up our top six picks to help you discover the most suitable firm mattress tailored to your needs.
Best Firm Mattress Overall
The Plank Firm Luxe is our top choice due its unique flippable design, substantial support for spinal alignment, and mid-range pricing.
Best firm mattresses in 2024
- Plank Firm Luxe: Best Overall Firm Mattress
- Saatva Classic: Best Innerspring Firm Mattress
- Helix Plus: Best Firm Mattress for Higher-Weight People
- Emma Comfort Hybrid: Best Affordable Firm Mattress
- Nolah Evolution: Best Firm Mattress for Side Sleepers
- Bear Original: Best Memory Foam Firm Mattress
Compare the best firm mattress, as of May 2024
Price | $924–$2,048 | $1,395–$2,690 | $936.30–$1,740 | $812–$1,649 | $1,499–$3,198 | $699–$1,690 |
Material | Hybrid | Innerspring-hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Memory foam |
Firmness | Firm or extra-firm | Plush soft, luxury firm, and firm | Firm | Firm | Plush, luxury firm, or firm | Firm |
Trial period | 120 nights | 365 nights | 100 nights | 365 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights |
Shipping | Free in a box | Free white-glove delivery | Free in a box | Free in a box | Free FedEx shipping in a box; white-glove delivery starting at $125 | Free in a box, white-glove delivery for $175 |
Warranty | 10 years | Lifetime | 15 years | 10 years | Lifetime | Lifetime |
Sizes | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split California king, short queen, short king, Olympic queen, RV king | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, split king, California king, split California king | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king |
Height In inches | 13.25″ | 11.5″ or 14.5″ | 11.25″ | 13″ | 15″ | 10″ |
Best firm mattresses of 2024, reviewed by experts
Best Overall Firm Mattress: Plank Firm Luxe
Our expert take on the Plank Firm Luxe mattress
We think the Plank Firm Luxe is a great choice for sleepers looking for a firm, supportive mattress that doesn’t compromise on comfort or temperature regulation. Plank is from the Brooklyn Bedding brand’s firm mattress line. We love its flippable design that offers two different levels of firmness in one mattress, which we rated eight out of 10 on one side and nine out of 10 on the other. This versatility is great for people unsure of their ideal firmness level or whose needs may change over time.
Additionally, the Plank Firm Luxe is designed with advanced cooling technology. We found the cooling effects effective during testing, giving it a four out of five for cooling. The mattress also provided good support for spinal alignment.
When our testers lay on the Plank Firm Luxe, its firm support kept our testers’ hips from sinking while in the stomach position and provided good support overall. This is particularly beneficial for sleepers with back pain or those who prefer a sturdier sleeping surface, so you can maintain proper posture throughout the night.
We also found that the construction supported easy movement and position changes, avoiding the common foam-topped mattress pitfall of feeling “stuck.” It also makes the bed easier to get in and out of.
![Woman sits on the edge of a Plank mattress to test edge support](https://d1udq3vihwjgqu.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/PlankFirm-Firm.jpg)
Our recommendation
Who will love it
- Fans of firm mattresses who prefer a solid, supportive sleep surface
- Sleepers with back pain seeking supported spinal alignment
- Hot sleepers, thanks to its advanced cooling technology
- People who change positions frequently
- Those who find it difficult to get in and out of bed
Who should avoid it
- Soft mattress lovers who prefer a plush, deeply contouring sleep experience
- Lighter-weight side sleepers
- Those who require in-home setup
Best Innerspring Firm Mattress: Saatva Classic
Our expert take on the Saatva Classic Firm mattress
The Saatva Classic has a dual-coil system with a soft Euro topⓘ A style of pillow top that provides an added layer of plush. The extra layer of padding is stitched beneath the mattress cover, so it’s flush with the edges of the mattress without adding extra height. , providing plush comfort to a firm foundation. While we tested the luxury firm model, the Saatva Classic comes in two other firmness options: plush soft and firm. During testing, this mattress supported spinal alignment and tested high for pressure relief. Our testers noted they could feel the extra support foam layer providing a bit of an additional lift around the midsection.
We gave the Classic high scores for overall support (five out of five), edge support (five out of five), and bounce (four out of five), making this mattress high in functional support (4.45 out of five). In addition to providing a responsive surface, a firmer mattress prevents sinking, and edge support ensures you’re less likely to roll off if you have reduced mobility or chronic pain. The Saatva Classic doesn’t just stand out among firm mattresses, it also earned a spot among our best mattress overall picks.
![Woman lying on her back on the Saatva Classic](https://d1udq3vihwjgqu.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/ncoa-saatva-classic-012.jpg)
Our recommendation
Who may love it
- Back and stomach sleepers looking for a firmer, supportive surface
- Hot sleepers who will benefit from the enhanced airflow of the dual coils
- Eco-conscious shoppers who appreciate organic and eco-friendly materials
- People with reduced mobility or chronic pain
Who may want to avoid it
- Lighter-weight side sleepers
- Couples who need motion isolationⓘ The ability of a mattress to keep movement on one side of the bed from affecting the other side.
Best Firm Mattress for Higher-Weight People: Helix Plus
Our expert take on the Helix Plus mattress
Designed specifically for higher-weight sleepers (more than 250 pounds), the Helix Plus provided an ideal balance of firmness and pressure relief during testing. It features durable construction with an enhanced steel-coil system and multiple layers of high-density foam, supporting up to 1,000 pounds and ensuring the mattress maintains its shape and support over time.
These materials also provide a supportive, responsive, and comfortable sleeping surface.
Our testers found that while this mattress offered firm support, the foam provided just enough cushioning to cradle our testers, scoring high for pressure relief.
The Helix Plus also provides a good balance of motion isolation and responsiveness, testing above average in isolation and getting a perfect five out of five score in bounce. This means it’s a great choice for those who frequently change positions or need an extra boost in mobility. It also has decent edge support, with a 3.5 out of five. Overall, the Helix Plus scored 3.65 out of five for functional support, which is above average.
Finally, we liked that this mattress comes with a Tencelⓘ A brand of lyocell fiber made from wood pulp that’s known for being soft, breathable, and absorbent. cover, which provides breathability, moisture-wicking, and cooling. You can also upgrade to a GlacioTex ⓘ Hypoallergenic fabric made from fibers with high thermal conductivity that allow heat to be quickly and effectively pulled away from your body cover for even more cooling. Check out our best mattress for heavy people picks for more options.
![Two people laying on a Helix mattress](https://d1udq3vihwjgqu.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Mattress-testing-helix.jpg)
Our recommendation
Who will love it
- Higher-weight people (more than 250 pounds)
- Back and stomach sleepers who need proper spinal alignment and weight distribution
- Combination sleepers who frequently change positions
- People who like a bouncy mattress to aid in movement
Who should avoid it
- Side sleepers who need more cushioning in the hips and shoulders
- Lighter-weight people (less than 130 pounds)
Best Affordable Firm Mattress: Emma Comfort Hybrid
Our expert take on the Emma Hybrid Comfort mattress
In a market flooded with options, the Emma Comfort Hybrid emerges as a standout for those seeking the best affordable mattress. It has a 7.5 out of 10 firmness rating and offers the support needed for back and stomach sleepers while maintaining a comfortable level of pressure relief (four out of five). It’s also rated a four out of five for bounce, indicating a responsive feel that aids movement.
But its moderate edge support (three out of five) and a lower overall support score (two out of five) suggest that while it excels in affordability and basic comfort, it might not meet the needs of those requiring robust edge or spinal support. We still rated it above average for functional support, scoring three out of five.
The mattress received a cooling score of 3.5 out of five, making it suitable for sleepers who tend to overheat. Plus, the removable cover is a thoughtful touch for those concerned with cleanliness. These elements, combined with the mattress’s responsiveness and ease of repositioning, make it a compelling choice for combination sleepers or people with reduced mobility.
Potential buyers will want to weigh the mattress’s affordability against its long-term durability and support capabilities. The Emma Comfort Hybrid offers significant initial value, but its material quality, shorter 10-year warranty, and support structure may not satisfy sleepers over time, particularly higher-weight sleepers (more than 250 pounds) or those with specific support requirements.
![Woman sits on the edge of an Emma mattress](https://d1udq3vihwjgqu.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Emma-MemoryFoam.jpg)
Our recommendation
Who will love it
- Budget-conscious shoppers
- Stomach and back sleepers who need firm support to maintain spinal alignment
- Combination sleepers seeking responsiveness and ease of movement
- People with reduced mobility who want bounce to aid in movement
Who should avoid it
- Those with specific support needs, like lower back pain
- Those who want an ultra-durable mattress
Best Firm Mattress for Side Sleepers: Nolah Evolution
Our expert take on the Nolah Evolution mattress
The Nolah Evolution mattress stands out for its targeted support and pressure relief. This is particularly beneficial for side sleepers, who need more cushion around the hips and shoulders.
Our Reviews Team survey of 600 new mattress customers found that most respondents said they were side sleepers (48.5%), compared to 17% back sleepers and 14% stomach sleepers. [3] NCOA Mattress Survey. 600 respondents. Conducted using Pollfish. Launched January 2024 Side sleepers generally need a more plush surface that allows the hip and shoulder to sink in a bit to avoid pressure buildup and pain in those areas.
We named the Nolah Evolution mattress the best mattress for side sleepers because it offers high pressure relief, with our team rating it 4.5 out of five for side sleepers. While it comes in three firmness levels (plush, luxury firm, and firm), we tested the luxury firm model and rated it a seven out of 10 on the firmness scale, which is only slightly firmer than the standard for medium firm (6.6 out of 10). It also received a high score for edge support (4.5 out of five), indicating stability at the edge for sitting or sleeping near the perimeter. Its functional support rating of 3.95 out of five is also one of the highest in this review.
The quilted foam cover added to the comfort and plush feel, while high-quality stitching and materials suggested durability and attention to detail. But anyone particularly sensitive to heat or lighter in weight may find some limitations in comfort and cooling.
![Weighted ball sits on the edge of the Nolah Evolution Luxury Firm](https://d1udq3vihwjgqu.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/NOlah-firm.jpg)
Our recommendation
Who will love it
- Side sleepers seeking enhanced spinal alignment and pressure-point relief
- Couples who don’t want to be disturbed by their partner’s movements
- Those who require strong edge support for easier bed entry and exit
- Sleepers who require some bounce to aid in movement
Who should avoid it
- Lighter-weight sleepers, who may find the mattress too firm
Best Memory Foam Firm Mattress: Bear Original
Our expert take on the Bear Original mattress
For memory foam lovers, the Bear Original is unique in this review series as the only all-foam option. But it’s a firm foam, with our testers giving it an eight out of 10, making it a good choice if you’re seeking support. This model is particularly suitable for back and stomach sleepers requiring a solid surface to maintain spinal alignment. But it might not be the best fit for side sleepers or lighter-weight people, who may find the surface too hard.
We found the overall support moderate, with a 2.5 out of five, while we gave this mattress a four out of five for edge support, indicating good stability at the mattress’s perimeter. This mattress also offers good motion isolation, which can help minimize disturbance from a partner, but it tested poorly for bounce, which can make it harder to move around on the material.
Our team also likes that the Bear Original is made with eco-friendly CertiPUR-US-certified foam ⓘ This is a certification given to foam bedding materials that are environmentally friendly. foam and is free from harmful chemicals and pollutants.
![Weighted ball sits in the middle of the Bear Original mattress](https://d1udq3vihwjgqu.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/ncoa-bear-original-035-1.jpg)
Our recommendation
Who will love it
- Back and stomach sleepers looking for firm support
- Sleepers who prefer a mattress with minimal motion transfer
- Those who appreciate a mattress with good edge support
- People who sleep hot
Who should avoid it
- Side sleepers who require more pressure relief in the shoulder and hip areas
- People who prefer a mattress with a lot of bounce for ease of movement
- Lighter-weight people who may find the mattress too firm
How to choose the best firm mattress
When it is time to turn in for the night, the best firm mattress is the one that feels most comfortable to you and allows for a night of sound sleep. Personal preference plays an important role in picking out a new mattress. We tested and reviewed a number of brands and models, determining the Plank Firm Luxe as the best overall firm mattress, but it is still possible it won’t be the right one for you. Take a close look at all of the options in this guide, keeping in mind the following considerations before you buy.
Sleep Position
Your mattress should maintain your spine alignment while you lay on it, and sleep position can play a part in choosing a mattress to achieve that goal. [4] Wong, D. W., et. al, (2019). Sleeping mattress determinants and evaluation: a biomechanical review and critique. PeerJ, 7, e6364. For example, many back sleepers prefer the support provided by medium to firm mattresses. If you tend to sleep on your stomach, a firmer mattress can help support your hips, preventing them from sinking into the mattress uncomfortably. Side and combination sleepers may find soft to medium mattresses to best suit their needs. Ultimately, you are the best judge of how comfortable you feel on a mattress in your preferred sleep position.
Body Type
While personal preference and comfort play a large role in choosing a mattress, body type can influence this decision as well. Typically, medium-firm to firm mattresses provide the best support for people of a higher weight. While people of a lower weight might perceive firm mattresses to be firmer than they are, preferring the feel of a softer mattress. Similarly, memory foam mattresses may not provide enough support for higher-weight sleepers, but a mattress with an innerspring core can help sleepers maintain spine alignment. The size of the mattress may also be important for some people, with a King or Cal King providing more space to those who need it.
Sleep Partners
If you share your bed with a partner, a larger mattress size might be the most comfortable choice. If you and your sleep partner have different comfort preferences and needs, this can present additional challenges during the shopping process. A memory foam mattress with motion isolation is often a good fit for couples with different comfort needs.
Who would benefit from a firm mattress?
Buying a mattress is a highly personal decision, and some sleepers may benefit more from a firm mattress than others. For example, the best mattress for back sleepers is often a medium-firm mattress that offers some pressure relief. A stomach sleeper may find they are more comfortable on a firm mattress that allows them to maintain an aligned spine. As mentioned above, people of heavier weights may require the extra support a firm mattress provides, while a softer mattress might feel too soft.
Do doctors recommend sleeping on a firm mattress?
Sleeping on a firm mattress may provide health benefits for certain people. A medium-firm mattress has been found to encourage sound sleep and lower the risk of developing back pain. The best mattress for back pain is often one that falls somewhere between medium and firm.
What level of mattress firmness is best for you?
Mattress firmness is rated on a 1 to 10 scale, with 1 representing an extra-soft mattress and 10 representing an extra-firm mattress. Softer mattresses sink under the sleeper’s weight and contour around their body. An extra-firm mattress typically doesn’t contour to the shape of the body or sink under the sleeper’s weight at all.
It is often true that back and stomach sleepers benefit from a medium to firm mattress. These mattresses provide enough support to keep the spine aligned. A side sleeper, however, may be more comfortable on a soft to medium mattress. When the mattress is able to conform to the shape of the body, a side sleeper may be more likely to maintain a neutral spine. If you are a person of heavier weight, a firmer mattress may be more comfortable, while a softer mattress often feels more comfortable for people of a lighter weight.
Bottom line
If you prefer a firm mattress, there are many options. Selecting the best firm mattress is crucial if you need a supportive sleep surface that maintains spinal alignment, particularly if you’re a back or a stomach sleeper, higher-weight person (more than 250 pounds), or have specific back pain concerns.
A firm mattress prevents excessive sinking and ensures a stable, even surface for proper spinal alignment. The Plank Firm Luxe stands out among the top picks for a firm mattress for its exceptional support, durability, and comfort. Its unique design and high-quality materials cater to a wide range of sleepers. But the right mattress for you depends on your personal preference, and all the mattresses on this list are solid options. If you’re experiencing back pain or any other issues and think a new mattress can help, make sure to speak to your doctor first. Your health care provider can ensure you make the right choice or provide other options that can help.
Frequently asked questions
We recommend firm mattresses for the following sleepers:
- Back sleepers: A firm mattress provides the necessary support for the spine, helping to maintain its natural alignment.
- Stomach sleepers: If you’re a stomach sleeper and your hips aren’t supported, your spine is out of alignment, which can lead to back pain. This is why stomach sleepers benefit from a firmer surface.
- Higher-weight people (more than 250 pounds): Those with a higher body weight may find that a firm mattress prevents excessive sinking, ensuring better support and alignment.
- Personal preference: Some people simply feel more comfortable on a firmer surface and want a mattress that doesn’t sink.
A firm mattress may help prevent back pain, especially for people who sleep on their back or stomach. Firmer support can help maintain proper spinal alignment, reducing stress on the spine and preventing the lower back from sinking too deeply. But the ideal mattress firmness for alleviating back pain varies based on personal preference, sleeping position, and body type. A mattress that provides a balance between support and pressure relief, aligning the spine without causing pressure points, is key.
The “best” firm mattress depends on various factors, including personal preferences, sleeping positions, and specific needs, such as temperature regulation or motion isolation. It’s important to consider personal comfort and support needs. To determine the best firm mattress for you, you should also consider your budget, available delivery methods, and sleep trials.
Have questions about this review? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org.
Sources
- Tung-Ho Hong T. Influence of Mattress Stiffness on Spinal Curvature and Intervertebral Disc Stress—An Experimental and Computational Study. Biology. July 8, 2022. Found on the internet at: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9311775
- Kannan R, et al. Sleep is Essential to Health: An American Academy of Sleep Medicine Position Statement. Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine. Oct. 1, 2021. Found on the internet at https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34170250
- Caggiari, Gianfilippo et al. “What type of mattress should be chosen to avoid back pain and improve sleep quality? Review of the literature.” Journal of orthopaedics and traumatology : official journal of the Italian Society of Orthopaedics and Traumatology vol. 22,1 51. 8 Dec. 2021. Found on the internet at doi:10.1186/s10195-021-00616-5
- NCOA Mattress Survey. 600 respondents. Conducted using Pollfish. Launched January 2024
- Wong, D. W., Wang, Y., Lin, J., Tan, Q., Chen, T. L., & Zhang, M. (2019). Sleeping mattress determinants and evaluation: a biomechanical review and critique. PeerJ, 7, e6364. https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.6364