The Best Mattresses for Couples, Tested by Experts
Top-tested beds with motion isolation that satisfy unique preferences and body types.

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Choosing the best mattress for yourself can be tricky enough, but shopping for a mattress as a couple adds another layer of complexity. Not only do you need to find a balance so it feels comfortable and supportive for two distinct individuals, but you also want to make sure there's good motion isolation so neither person can feel their sleeping partner move — especially if they toss and turn throughout the night.
The scientists and engineers in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab review mattresses of all kinds to find the best options for every type of sleeper. We survey our proprietary tester panel on the mattresses they already own — in fact, in recent years we've surveyed over 10,000 mattress owners and reviewed feedback from more than 170,000 questions. We then try out the mattresses ourselves and review the materials and special features of each model. When it comes to mattresses for couples, we take extra consideration into features that offer superior motion isolation and make it comfortable for two people with distinct preferences.
What's the best mattress for couples? Our top pick is the Helix Dusk Luxe. It has a true medium feel that makes it suitable for most sleep positions — in fact, real couples with different preferences told us it was a good fit for their individual needs. We also like that the foam in its hybrid construction helps prevent motion transfer. And though it's not cheap, it still offers a good value, especially compared to adjustable and modular beds for couples.
Our top picks
You can find more information about how we test mattresses and our tips to help you (and your sleeping partner) pick your perfect bed at the end of this article, but first, here's everything you need to know about our top-tested mattresses for couples, with prices listed for Queen sizes.
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Pros
Medium firmness suits varying sleep positions
Highly rated by real couples on our panel
Ergonomic support for alignment
Cons
No handles; may be more difficult to set up
If you're looking for a comfortable mattress that can suit differing sleep positions and individual preferences, this one's your best bet. It's a hybrid model that layers foam over coils and has a true medium feel — i.e., not too soft and not too firm. It also has a built-in pillowtop for extra comfort, which is a nice touch that you don't see on most boxed beds.
The mattress ships in a box for DIY setup. It's quite heavy (which is expected given its tall height and layered construction), and it doesn't have any handles on the side, so you'll likely need two people for the unboxing. And while this is the Dusk Luxe model, the brand also has a Dusk version without the "Luxe," meaning there are fewer layers for a lower price.
TESTER NOTES: Real couples gave it top marks — including for comfort and overall sleep quality — and highlighted how well it satisfied their unique needs. A tester told us, "It's a good mix for me (a side sleeper) and my partner (a back sleeper)," while other users confirmed it offered good support regardless of whether they were sleeping on their stomachs, backs or sides.
Our reviewers also raved about the pressure relief, saying it conformed nicely to their bodies without too much sinking in. Most also found it to have good motion isolation, though one tester said they did feel movement if their partner was too close in the bed.
Mattress type | Hybrid |
Firmness level | Medium |
Height | 14 inches |
Available sizes | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King |
Trial period | 100 days |
Pros
Good motion isolation
Under $1,000
Fast shipping on Amazon
Cons
Lacks edge support
This Tuft & Needle mattress is less than half the price of other top picks for couples but still delivers on important aspects like motion isolation and comfort for various sleep positions. Its simple construction is made of two layers of foam — a supportive layer on the bottom with a more breathable one on top — and has a fairly firm feel for a foam bed.
Another perk: Because it's sold on Amazon, it ships quickly and can arrive at your house in days. We've seen a lot of frustration with mattress delivery delays and the hassles of scheduling during our reviews, but the reliability and standout feedback make this our pick for the best mattress on Amazon.
TESTER NOTES: It's been highly rated by our reviewers for years despite its lower cost. In fact, users give it high scores for everything from ease of ordering and setup to comfort and support during use. Several highlighted the motion isolation, saying they couldn't feel movements from their sleeping partners. One even told us, "My Tuft & Needle mattress is so much more comfortable than any mattress I've ever had in the past. My husband and I both experience much less back pain."
The main complaint from testers was the lack of edge support, meaning the bed may sag when you sit on the sides. On the plus side, they raved about the brand's customer service, saying the representatives were extremely helpful.
Mattress type | Memory foam |
Firmness level | Medium firm |
Height | 10 inches |
Available sizes | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King |
Trial period | 100 days |
Pros
Highly rated for comfort and support by testers
Free delivery and set up
High quality construction without a luxury price tag
Cons
Less motion isolation than foam mattresses
$99 return fee
Saatva's mattress is ideal for couples that prefer a traditional, responsive bed over the sinking-in feel of foam. The inside is primarily made up of two layers of coils. Though innersprings typically aren't as good at preventing motion transfer, Saatva's top layer of springs uses pocketed coils, which helps reduce this effect. The mattress comes in three firmness levels with Luxury Firm being the most popular and closest to a true medium feel.
This one also stands out for its included in-home setup and old mattress removal. While many online mattress brands ship their models compressed in a box for DIY setup, this one can't be rolled up, and your purchase includes White Glove delivery.
TESTER NOTES: More than 100 owners of this model gave it glowing reviews in our survey. Several described it as an excellent balance with comments like, "firm, but not hard" and "comfortable and just the right amount of plush." They also found it to feel more breathable and cool than memory foam mattresses. On top of that, they loved the convenience of the in-home setup.
READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Experts Share Why Saatva is the Best Innerspring Mattress
Mattress type | Innerspring |
Heights | 11.5 or 14 inches |
Firmness levels | Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, Firm |
Available sizes | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, California King, Split California King |
Trial period | 365 days (with a $99 return pickup fee) |
Pros
Excellent motion isolation
Pressure relief and cradling comfort
Save 30% with code CLOUD30
Cons
Pricey for a 10-inch mattress
Memory foam beds create the best motion isolation, and Tempur-Pedic's mattresses are superior in this aspect. Though most of the brand's models cost several thousand dollars, the Tempur-Cloud is the brand's boxed model that gives you the same popular foam at a more affordable price. It uses three layers of pressure-relieving foam and has a medium feel to suit most preferences and sleep positions.
Because of how well it conforms to your body, this mattress is especially good for side sleepers because it takes the weight off of your shoulders and hips while keeping you aligned. It may feel firm when you first lie down, but it slowly adapts to your shape.
TESTING NOTES: It earned high marks for comfort, support and overall sleep quality from users. Couples especially liked the feel, with one telling us, "We were delighted with the comfort. The foam is lovely if you like that feeling of sinking into a warm hug when you sleep. We can’t deny that we slept well on this mattress."
Another user said, "I feel like my entire body is supported in a very gentle way." Our reviewers also note that the mattress holds up well over time, making it worth the investment. One even compared it to past beds and said, "It was definitely a major upgrade."
READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Tempur-Pedic's Tempur-Cloud Mattress is The Most Luxurious Bed in a Box
Mattress type | Memory foam |
Firmness level | Medium |
Height | 10 inches |
Available sizes | Twin, Twin Long, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King |
Trial period | 90 days |
Pros
Users told us it eased back discomfort
High ratings for comfort and support
Great value
Cons
Intended for side sleepers; less suitable for back and stomach sleepers
If back discomfort affects one or both sleeping partners, this model checks off the boxes for an ideal mattress for back pain: Medium firmness and memory foam for pressure relief. Beyond that, real testers told us it improved or got rid of their pain. It's made up of three layers of foam with dense support foam on the bottom and plusher foam on top for cradling comfort.
It's also a good value thanks in part to its all-foam construction, though the 10-inch height is on the lower side. Also, note that this mattress is specifically marketed toward side sleepers (which happens to be the recommended sleep position for back pain sufferers).
TESTING NOTES: Users consistently tell us it relieves their discomfort. One reviewer said, "It offers back support while still cradling pressure points. It has been significantly helpful in relieving back pain for my husband, who has scoliosis." Beyond that, a tester of the hybrid version of this mattress said, "On the first day of testing, I went to bed with a strained back from hours of sitting at my desk. When I woke up the next day, the pain was completely gone."
Beyond back pain relief, the durability and cooling aspects stood out to our panel. One owner that's had it for four years raved about how well it kept its shape, while other users told us that it felt cool — a huge feat for a foam mattress.
Mattress type | Memory foam |
Firmness level | Medium |
Height | 10 inches |
Available sizes | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King |
Trial period | 120 days |
Pros
Excellent motion isolation
High weight capacity for heavier bodies
Users say it sleeps cool
Cons
Some of our reviewers noted shipping delays
One of the most complicated situations while mattress shopping for couples is when the two individuals have a significant difference in body weight. While there are mattresses designed for heavier bodies, these models may feel too firm and uncomfortable to the sleeping partner with a lighter weight. Purple's innovative construction is a great option in this case because it can accommodate heavier weights and has a firm yet squishy surface that feels good for varying body types.
The top layer consists of the brand's GelFlex Grid, which is essentially an elastic grid. As an added bonus, the open construction is breathable and cool to sleep on. The brand says it's recommended for up to 300 pounds per side or 600 pounds total. Beyond that, this model offers excellent motion isolation.
TESTING NOTES: It satisfied a wide range of preferences in our testing and users confirmed the motion isolation works well, saying they couldn't feel their sleeping partners move throughout the night. They especially loved the unique feel, noting it was the perfect balance of soft and firm. Users told us it feels like "sleeping on air" and "like floating in every position." One added, "It's 'springy' and conforms to my body while still being supported." Just note that several users told us they experienced shipping delays when buying this mattress.
Mattress type | Memory foam |
Firmness level | Medium firm |
Height | 9.25 inches |
Available sizes | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King |
Trial period | 100 days |
Pros
Separate firmness levels on each side
Option to swap out fills
Easy to take apart for moves
Cons
Expensive
Shorter trial period plus a return fee
Bedgear's model uses a genius modular design that allows couples with distinctly different needs to share a mattress, thanks to the fact that each side has its own separate fill. There are four firmness levels to choose from for each side, and they're interchangeable so you can swap them out over time and buy a new one if your needs change.
The fill is a hybrid, with coils on the bottom and foam on top to help prevent motion transfer. And because the mattress is modular, it can come apart into several pieces for easier setup.
TESTING NOTES: We haven't received as much user feedback on this model through our consumer surveys (likely because of its higher price and rare design), but we were impressed with its construction, and testers that have used it swear by it. Users especially like the swappable option, and one tester called it the "mattress of the future." She also said, "I like that this mattress has such a high-end feel with customization but the convenience of at-home purchase and set-up. I love that I could potentially customize it to be softer or harder in the future."
Mattress type | Modular hybrid |
Firmness levels | Firm (0.0), Medium Firm (1.0), Medium Plush (2.0), Plush (3.0) |
Height | 12 inches |
Available sizes | Twin XL, Queen, King, California King, Split King |
Trial period | 30 days (with a $119 return fee) |
Pros
Zoned sections to promote alignment
High comfort ratings from testers
Firmness levels are suitable for most sleep positions
Cons
We couldn't validate the brand's eco-friendly and recovery claims
Though this model doesn't have any specific features that cater to couples, it's our pick for the best hybrid mattress and has blown away real tester couples with its comfort. It's a hybrid made up of a cushioned top, several layers of foam and a layer of coils on the bottom, making it an impressive 14 inches tall.
The construction also offers ergonomic support with zoned sections that vary in firmness to help keep your spine aligned. Just note that although its website boasts "environmentally-friendly materials" and natural minerals to promote recovery, we couldn't validate these claims in our review process.
TESTING NOTES: Couples told us they got better, more uninterrupted sleep after testing this mattress. They also gave it perfect scores across the board, and one even called it "the most comfortable mattress we have ever slept on." She also said it was a perfect fit for both her and her husband and added, "This is undoubtedly the best mattress we have ever owned. We have traveled all over and have never had the sleep experience we now have every night."
Mattress type | Hybrid |
Firmness levels | Luxury Plush, Luxury Firm, Extra Firm |
Height | 14 inches |
Available sizes | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King |
Trial period | 120 days |
Pros
Modular with individual sides
Five firmness options; can be swapped over time
Certified organic
Cons
Expensive due to high-quality and organic materials
Though this mattress is pricier than others, it's made of GOTS-certified organic materials and has a modular design that makes it perfect for couples. There are five firmness options for each side, and the brand even gives you 100 days to exchange your firmness level at no charge if it's not a good fit.
The fill is a combination of latex, wool and coils, all encased in a cotton cover. Plus, its easy-access zipper makes it simpler to set up the mattress and replace the inner layers as needed.
TESTER NOTES: Besides the ability to customize each side, testers loved the motion isolation created by the separate fills and said they couldn't feel their sleeping partners move around. One summarized her experience by saying, "It's very comfortable and supportive. I love that it's organic, and I'm not sleeping on a bed of chemicals!"
Mattress type | Latex hybrid |
Firmness levels | Plush, Medium, Cushion Firm, Firm, Extra Firm |
Height | 11 inches |
Available sizes | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King |
Trial period | 100 days (You can also swap out just the firmness levels during this timeframe if you prefer) |
Pros
Customizable firmness levels
Real users swear it helps them sleep better
Earned the Good Housekeeping Seal
Cons
Big investment and delivery costs extra
Unlike modular designs that let you choose your firmness when you buy, this smart mattress lets you customize your firmness level in real time. It's perfect for couples that don't agree on firmness, but it's also ideal for being able to change the feel as your needs evolve. Beyond that, it has biometric sensors that detect if you switch positions so it can automatically adjust and keep you at your preferred firmness level.
It's made up of air chambers that allow for adjustability, plus there's a 5-inch foam layer for pressure relief on top. This bed also has built-in sleep trackers that give you feedback on your sleep performance. Note that the full-service delivery costs an extra $249, but it includes in-home assembly, mattress removal and technician support to walk you through how the bed works.
TESTER NOTES: Our testers and more than 300 Sleep Number owners on our panel gave their mattress top scores for comfort, support and sleep quality. They also said it holds up well; users that have owned it for 10 years said it was a worthy investment. One Sleep Number owner said, "I was initially hesitant because of the cost, but as soon as I laid on it, it changed my mind." Another told us, “I really feel like it gives me a custom sleep experience"
Mattress type | Adjustable |
Firmness level | Adjustable |
Height | 11 inches |
Available sizes | Twin XL, Queen, King, Split King, California King |
Trial period | 100 days |
How we test mattresses for couples

All mattresses are extensively evaluated by the experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab. First, our scientists and engineers consider the materials, construction and any special features. We also research and vet the brands to make sure they're trustworthy so that we feel comfortable recommending them from a customer service standpoint.
Next, we get in-depth feedback on the specific models. Our analysts and consumer testers try out the mattresses for a firsthand review, plus we survey thousands of consumers on our proprietary panel to get input on the models they already own. In recent years, we've surveyed over 10,000 mattress owners and reviewed responses to more than 170,000 questions to help us determine the best models for every preference, budget and unique sleep need.
When we review the mattresses, we take into consideration aspects like ease of ordering and setup, comfort and support, temperature regulation, durability and more. When it comes to mattresses for couples, we also factor in aspects like motion isolation (i.e., whether or not you can feel your sleeping partner move), medium firmness to suit multiple body types and sleep positions and special features that offer a compromise for different needs, like modular designs and adjustability.
How to shop for your best mattress

Choosing a mattress is a highly personal decision, and there are key features to review and consider before you make your purchase — especially when you're deciding as a couple. Here's what to keep in mind as you shop:
✔️ Firmness level: A medium firmness (i.e., a 5 out of 10 on the firmness scale) is typically a good choice for couples. This can suit most sleep positions and body types. In general, there are two main aspects to consider when choosing your firmness level:
- Sleep Position: Side sleepers benefit from a softer mattress to prevent putting excess weight on their hips and shoulders. Stomach sleepers need a firmer surface for proper alignment. Back sleepers (or people who change positions) can opt for a medium firmness that's in between the two.
- Body type: Heavier body weights need a firmer surface since they're putting more pressure on the bed. Lighter frames, on the other hand, should go for something softer so the mattress has some give.
✔️ Customization and adjustability: If it's too difficult to choose just one firmness level, opt for a bed that has a modular design (which allows each person to choose the firmness level of their side) or adjustability (where each sleeper controls the firmness level). These types of mattresses cost more but get rave reviews from our panel for comfort and sleep quality.
✔️ Motion isolation: Motion transfer describes whether you can feel your sleeping partner's movement, so the goal is to find a bed that prevents this sensation. Modular designs have separate fills, so these typically block the motion transfer. Otherwise, foam mattresses tend to have better motion isolation than innersprings.
✔️ Height: In general, a taller mattress means it has more layers and is therefore considered more luxurious. Most of our top-tested mattresses are at least 11 inches tall, but there are some standout options at just 10 inches. If you feel the need to increase layers on your bed, you can always add a mattress topper.
✔️ Temperature regulation: Both sleepers should be able to stay at a comfortable temperature throughout the night, and a mattress can certainly cause overheating. Innerspring mattresses are more breathable, whereas memory foam can trap in heat. If you do prefer memory foam but are concerned about getting too hot, opt for one with phase-change properties (which store and release body heat to keep you comfortable) or hybrid models with coils for more airflow.
✔️ Price: Most of our recommended mattresses fall into the $1,000-$2,000 price range for a Queen size. That being said, you can certainly find some good options for under $1,000, and there are innovative mattresses that are worth the splurge for over $2,000 — especially if they're adjustable or modular.
✔️ Trial period: We recommend focusing on the return policy rather than the warranty. A warranty only covers manufacturing defects, which can be difficult to prove. A trial period, on the other hand, lets you return your mattress for any reason within a certain timeframe. Most online mattress brands will let you sleep on it for at least 100 nights to ensure your purchase is low risk. Make sure to check the fine print — like whether there are any return fees and how you go about getting the refund — before you buy.
The best mattress materials for couples

Hybrid mattresses are the best bet to satisfy two distinct preferences because they combine the benefits of foam and coils, but it's worth considering what matters most to you as a couple. Here are the most common mattress materials:
- Innerspring or coil mattresses: Made of metal springs, these mattresses feel more resilient (i.e. bouncy) with less sinking in. They also tend to be more breathable and durable, though they likely won't have the best motion isolation.
- Memory foam mattresses: Made of synthetic foam, these beds offer the most pressure relief. They're great at relieving back pain because they conform to the shape of your body and they typically have good motion isolation, but they may trap in heat.
- Latex mattresses: These feel similar to memory foam, but they're more resilient and generally made from organic materials. They tend to be heavier and more expensive than memory foam beds.
- Hybrid mattresses: Combining foam (e.g., memory foam or latex) over coils, these beds offer pressure relief on top with a durable and breathable base. They're going to be more expensive than a foam-only mattress but give you the benefits of both distinct materials.
How to choose the right mattress size for couples

A King size mattress will be most comfortable for couples, but it's not the right fit for everyone. Here's what to consider when choosing your mattress size as a couple:
- Full: Also called a double, this is probably the smallest size you can get away with as a couple and won't be the most comfortable for two people. It's your best bet if you're on a budget or tight on space. It's also suitable for a guest room, where the sleeping situation is only temporary.
- Queen: This is the most commonly purchased bed size and is designed for two sleepers, while still being less expensive than a King.
- King: A King-size mattress is the same size as two Twin-size mattresses put together, meaning this is the best bed if you want to have ample sleeping space as a couple. It's also ideal for families if you anticipate the kids crawling into your bed, but will cost more and take up more space in your bedroom.
- Split King: This is the same size as a King mattress, but is actually two separate Twin-size mattresses pushed together. It's great for motion isolation, but there will likely be a noticeable split in the center of your bed. Note that a Split King is not the same thing as a modular mattress, which only splits the fill on the inside.
- California King: Longer but more narrow than a King, a California King bed is better suited for taller sleepers.
Why you can trust Good Housekeeping

Lexie Sachs is the executive director of the Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she oversees bedding testing, including mattresses. She has been actively researching, analyzing and reporting on mattresses since online bed shopping hit the mainstream in 2014, and has extensively reviewed dozens of models by meeting with brands, surveying real mattress owners and conducting consumer tests.
Lexie Sachs (she/her) is the executive director of strategy and operations at the Good Housekeeping Institute and a lead reviewer of products in the bedding, travel, lifestyle, home furnishings and apparel spaces. She has over 15 years of experience in the consumer products industry and a degree in fiber science from Cornell University. Lexie serves as an expert source both within Good Housekeeping and other media outlets, regularly appearing on national broadcast TV segments. Prior to joining GH in 2013, Lexie worked in merchandising and product development in the fashion and home industries.


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