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The Best Hybrid Mattresses in a Box of 2024

These top-tested boxed beds combine supportive coils with comfortable foam.

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VerifiedTested by Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab Product Analyst
best hybrid mattress in a box

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It's easy to feel overwhelmed when choosing your next mattress, especially since there are so many different types of mattresses now. Still, the hybrid mattress in a box is among the most popular for a reason. Not only does it combine durable coils with pressure-relieving foam (so you get the benefits of both), but boxed mattresses ship quickly for DIY setup at your convenience, without needing to coordinate delivery.

What's the best hybrid mattress in a box? Our top-tested boxed hybrid is the Bear Elite Hybrid. It has earned high comfort ratings from every tester who's tried it, and users told us it delivers quality sleep compared to other beds they've slept on. If you're looking to spend under $1,000, we recommend the Allswell Luxe Hybrid.

The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab has evaluated hundreds of boxed hybrid mattresses to find the best ones available. Our expert analysts evaluate every aspect, from the initial ordering and setup process to long-term comfort, support and perceived effect on sleep quality, with the help of hundreds of at-home consumer testers. Plus, we surveyed more than 10,000 mattress owners for added insight into the best beds. Here are our picks for the best hybrid mattresses in a box, with prices listed for Queen sizes.

1
Best Overall

Bear Elite Hybrid

Elite Hybrid

Pros

  • Testers unanimously gave it high comfort ratings
  • Ergonomic zones for spine alignment
  • Luxury construction for a boxed mattress

Cons

  • We couldn't validate some of the brand's sleep "recovery" claims

Not only is this mattress the quintessential hybrid, combining several layers of foam over individually pocketed coils, but it's also a consistent tester favorite year after year. It has five zoned sections from the head to the foot of the bed to promote proper spine alignment. Certain areas offer more relief for your pressure points (like the shoulders), while others provide more support (like near the lower back). There's also a quilted top cover, which gives you the cushioning feel of a luxury pillow-top mattress.

Who it's best for: It's suitable for most sleep positions, but it's especially good for side and back sleepers because of its ergonomic layout. The targeted zones also make it ideal for people with back pain. Overall, it's a great option for anyone who finds an innerspring to be too hard and memory foam to be too soft.

Tester notes: Since it first launched in 2022, we've had various testers try out this model in different firmnesses, and each one has given it high praise. Testers unanimously agreed it improved their sleep quality, and one even shared that she overslept after her first night on the mattress. Another tester 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."

Note: We couldn't validate some of the brand's marketing claims during our research, including one that says the mattress contains natural minerals that promote sleep recovery. Still, it's a top-tested model that we recommend based on feedback from our experts and at-home testers.

Height14 inches
Firmness levelsSoft, Medium, Firm
Trial period120 days
2
Best Value

Allswell Luxe Hybrid

Luxe Hybrid

Pros

  • Our reviewers compared it to an expensive hotel bed
  • Quality construction for a low cost model
  • Fast delivery

Cons

  • Lacks edge support

Don't let the price fool you: This mattress was still a top performer in our tests. And unlike other low-cost mattresses that use innersprings with minimal foam layers, this one has two substantial layers of foam over individually wrapped coils to help reduce motion transfer. We also love that the price has stayed fairly consistent, especially because we've seen mattress prices regularly increasing in recent years.

Who it's best for: Young adults, including apartment renters, new homeowners or anyone who's looking for the best possible mattress under $1,000. Because it doesn't have as much edge support, the sides sink down under pressure, so it may be more difficult for anyone with mobility issues to get out of bed. This model was most liked by testers in their 20s.

Tester notes: Our reviewers said this mattress felt way more expensive than it is. Although the lack of edge support was a common complaint, users still felt it was well worth the price. One tester told us, "It feels like sleeping on a plush hotel mattress but at a fraction of the price." From a convenience standpoint, it arrived quickly and was easy to set up.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Why the Allswell Luxe Hybrid Is Our Best Value Mattress

Height12 inches
Firmness levelsMedium
Trial period90 days
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3
Best for Back Pain

Nolah Original All-Foam Hybrid

Original All-Foam Hybrid
Now 35% Off
Credit: Nolah

Pros

  • Real users found pain relief after sleeping on it
  • Meets recommendations from doctors
  • Testers say it feels cooler than other foam models

Cons

  • No coils; not a true "hybrid"

Our reviewers consistently told us they felt pain relief after switching to Nolah mattresses, and this particular model offers a substantial amount of memory foam with a medium firmness, which is what our medical experts recommend in a mattress for back pain. Though it's entirely foam inside and not an actual hybrid, it has unique foam layers at the base with tiny cutouts designed to give you the responsive feel of coils with the motion isolation of memory foam.

Who it's best for: People who struggle with back pain, hip pain, sciatica and pregnancy-related pain. This model is intended for side sleepers, which is the sleep position recommended for people with back pain. If you prefer a true hybrid model, we're currently testing Nolah's new Original Hybrid Mattress, which has proved promising thus far.

Tester notes: Users with conditions ranging from sciatica to scoliosis reported pain relief while sleeping on various Nolah models, including this one. One tester noted, "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." Since then, she hasn't reported any additional discomfort. Plus, while memory foam is notorious for trapping heat, our reviewers have found that Nolah's signature AirFoam sleeps surprisingly cool.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Sleep Testers Swear Nolah's Mattress Alleviates Back Pain

Height10 inches
Firmness levelsMedium
Trial period120 days

Pros

  • True medium feel to compromise between preferences
  • Highly rated by real couples
  • Good for people who switch sleep positions

Cons

  • Heavier with no handles for set up

This hybrid is the ultimate compromise between couples with different body types, sleep positions and personal preferences. With its medium firmness, it has a perfectly balanced feel so that it's not too soft yet not too firm. Plus, unlike other options on our list, this one uses a mix of memory foam and latex for a contouring yet responsive feel.

Who it's best for: Sleeping partners who can't agree on the firmness level or mattress type. It's also ideal for combination sleepers — i.e., people who frequently change their sleep position throughout the night. Though this model is on the pricier side, there's a Dusk version (without the "Luxe") that has fewer layers and costs several hundred dollars less.

Tester notes: It stood out for satisfying users with different preferences than their significant others. One tester told us, "It's a good mix for me (a side sleeper) and my partner (a back sleeper)." Another tester agreed but noted that if their partner got too close, they did feel some of their movements. Besides that, one highlighted its contouring feel, noting, "It feels plush but doesn't feel like it's swallowing me up, and there's just enough bounce that allows me to shift and turn over in the night."

Still, because of its tall 13.5-inch height, it's heavier to set up, and it doesn't have handles on the sides.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Helix Carries Over 20 Mattresses — Here's Why We Love the Dusk Luxe Model

Height13.5 inches
Firmness levelsMedium
Trial period100 days
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5
Best on Amazon

Casper Original Hybrid Mattress

Original Hybrid Mattress

Pros

  • Fast shipping with Amazon Prime
  • Trusted brand with top feedback
  • Reviewers loved the comfort and contouring feel

Cons

  • Casper will be phasing out this model eventually
  • Some users say it feels more plush than its medium rating

Casper is known for helping the mattress-in-a-box industry hit the mainstream, and though the original version was entirely foam, the brand now offers this popular hybrid variation. It's also a great option on Amazon because it's available with Prime shipping. That means it arrives quickly and you know exactly what day it'll be delivered. The construction is standard yet thoughtful: The top foam layer has ventilation throughout for more airflow, while the second foam layer has zoned support.

Who it's best for: Shoppers who prefer to buy from Amazon but still want to get a quality mattress instead of a cheap model. Its zones make it most suitable for side and back sleepers.

Tester notes: Users unanimously told us this model felt like an upgrade from their previous bed. One said, "I was so apprehensive about trying a mattress without feeling it first," but exclaimed, "It was so comfortable!" They also highlighted how well it contoured to their body and that it felt plush to lie on. Another reviewer said it's "like sleeping on a cloud." Just note that one pointed out that it actually felt softer than expected.

Take note: Casper recently updated its entire mattress assortment and we are planning to test the Dream model, which is similar to the Original Hybrid but with a more responsive feel. However, you can still buy the Original Hybrid (which we've extensively tested) on Amazon.

Height11 inches
Firmness levelMedium
Trial period100 days
6
Best Cheap

Linenspa 8-Inch Hybrid Mattress

8-Inch Hybrid Mattress

Pros

  • Low cost for a mattress
  • Fast shipping from Amazon
  • Firmer feel than other hybrids

Cons

  • Lacks comfort and quality compared to pricier models

If you're looking to spend as little as possible on a hybrid mattress, this one's your best bet. It's only 8 inches tall with minimal foam, so it won't feel as cushioned as the Allswell Luxe Hybrid (our best value pick), but it's still incredibly popular. In fact, it has over 130,000 reviews on Amazon with an average 4.5-star rating. The 8-inch version will have a firmer feel due to the minimal foam, but if you prefer a softer surface, you can upgrade to the 10- or 12-inch version of this mattress for a slightly higher cost, though both are still under $500.

Who it's best for: Price-conscious shoppers who don't want to spend over $300 on a mattress. It's also ideal for people who prefer a firmer mattress or for beds that require a lower profile, like a Murphy bed or bunk bed.

Tester notes: We heard from dozens of Linenspa mattress owners, who gave this mattress high scores for ease of ordering, delivery and setup. They didn't score it as well on things like comfort and sleep quality, and some even noted that it didn't last as long as they had expected. Still, one user of this mattress told us, "We love the cost and the hybrid of foam and spring. The firmness and give are great with this model. We also love how easy this was to order and set up — and it came in days, not weeks."

Height8 inches
Firmness levelMedium firm
Trial periodN/A (Amazon accepts returns for refunds within 100 days)
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7
Best Cooling

Purple Restore Mattress

Restore Mattress

Pros

  • Elastic grid is squishy yet supportive
  • Breathable construction
  • Good motion isolation

Cons

  • Some say delivery takes longer than expected
  • Grid outline is visible through some sheets

Mattresses with memory foam, including hybrids, can inadvertently cause overheating. Purple's, on the other hand, has a unique gel grid layer on top that offers excellent breathability. The grid also stands out for feeling squishy yet firm, giving the mattress a perfect balance of support and pressure relief. While this hybrid uses less memory foam than others (only for transition layers around the coils), Purple has additional hybrids available that use more foam below the gel grid for a softer feel.

Who it's best for: Hot sleepers, thanks to its airy construction, couples, thanks to its motion isolation and heavier body weights, thanks to its 600-pound capacity (or 300 pounds on each side). Even if you don't fit into one of these categories, it's still a great mattress thanks to its innovative materials that you need to feel to believe.

Tester notes: Our reviewers of Purple products (including its pillows) have been impressed by how cool they feel during use. When it comes to this mattress specifically, comfort and convenience were the biggest highlights. One tester told us, "It was comfortable from day one," while another said, "It was easy to set up." Just note that some Purple testers have found their mattress deliveries to take longer than expected.

Height11.5 inches
Firmness levelsMedium Soft or Firm
Trial period100 days
8
Best for Side Sleepers

Puffy Lux Hybrid Mattress

Lux Hybrid Mattress
Now 47% Off
Credit: Puffy

Pros

  • Soft yet still supportive
  • Users say it doesn't sink in too much
  • Reviewers note improved sleep quality

Cons

  • Testers didn't notice the claimed cooling effects

Side sleepers typically need a softer mattress to prevent putting too much strain on their pressure points, like the shoulders and hips. Puffy's is rated softer than other hybrids, but it's still supportive and doesn't sink in too much. It has three separate layers of foam above the coils, making it taller and more cushioning than most other boxed models.

Who it's best for: Side sleepers or anyone who prefers a soft, cradling feel from their mattress. It can also be useful for back pain sufferers since the multiple foam layers help conform to the shape of your body.

Tester notes: Puffy recently updated this mattress, and the verdict is in: Our reviewers like it even more than the last, calling the hybrid "the best of both worlds." One noted that it helped alleviate her lower back pain and praised its improved edge support. Despite its soft feel, users say it has kept its shape well. Another tester said, "I feel like I'm sleeping on a cloud, but I still feel supported." One thing to note: The brand claims the mattress has cooling features, but our panelists didn't seem to notice this effect, though none reported overheating.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Puffy's Lux Hybrid Mattress Feels Like Sleeping on a Cloud, According to GH Testers

Height12 inches
Firmness levelMedium plush
Trial period101 days
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9
Best Organic

Avocado Green Mattress

Green Mattress

Pros

  • Certified organic latex construction
  • Firm, supportive feel
  • High quality materials

Cons

  • Medium and Soft firmness levels cost more

Unlike most hybrid mattresses that are made with memory foam, this one uses latex, which is more resilient and has less of a sinking-in feel. It's certified organic by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS), meaning the entire manufacturing process follows strict standards. And the best part is that it doesn't sacrifice quality by using more sustainable materials. It outperformed hundreds of other mattresses in our testers. Note that the standard model is on the firmer side, but you can opt to add a pillowtop for an added fee.

Who it's best for: People who prefer to avoid petroleum-based memory foam, eco-conscious shoppers or those who prefer the supportive feel of latex.

Tester notes: One of our reviewers summarized her experience with this model by saying, "I like that it's made of organic and natural materials, that it's extremely comfortable and that it's held up even after years." Other users noticed how well it kept their body weight distributed and gave it high comfort ratings. While latex hybrids aren't as popular as foam hybrids, Avocado's have won over some of our pickiest testers for their supportive feel.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Avocado's Green Mattress is the Best Organic Mattress on the Market

Height11 inches (or 13 inches to 15.5 inches with pillowtop)
Firmness levelGentle firm, Medium or Soft
Trial period365 days

How we test mattresses

best mattress in a box, a boxed mattress showing up at a doorstep
Good Housekeeping/Lexie Sachs

The scientists and engineers in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab review materials, specs, noteworthy claims and any customer service-related aspects. We then have our experts and consumer testers set up and sleep on the mattresses in their homes. On top of that, we survey Good Housekeeping readers to get insight into the mattresses they already own. In recent years, we've surveyed over 10,000 mattress owners and reviewed responses to more than 170,000 questions. Here's how each hybrid mattress in a box is evaluated:

  • Ordering and delivery: We ask users to share whether the hybrid mattress was easy to buy and whether it arrived quickly. Our reviewers can also elaborate on any issues that came up and how the problems were addressed.
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a mattress being set up on a frame as part of good housekeeping's test to find the best mattress
LEXIE SACHS
  • Setup: Since boxed mattresses typically require unpacking and setting up on your own, we ask testers to describe the experience and whether the mattress took shape in a reasonable amount of time.
  • Firmness level: Sometimes the brand's listed firmness doesn't match what users feel at home, so we ask our reviewers to give the mattress a firmness rating of their own.
  • Temperature regulation: Testers rate whether they remained at a comfortable body temperature throughout the night, regardless of whether the mattress uses any cooling claims.
  • Comfort and support: Users rate the overall comfort and support, along with how much they enjoyed sleeping on it both initially and over an extended period of testing.
best mattress allswell luxe hybrid mattress testing at good housekeeping
  • Edge support: Sometimes boxed hybrids lack edge support, which means they sink under your weight when you sit on the side. We have our testers try this aspect to see if the edges will hold up to pressure.
  • Sleep quality: Survey respondents share whether they wake up feeling sore and then give the mattress an overall satisfaction rating. They also have the opportunity to compare it to other mattresses they've owned in the past.
  • Additional feedback: At the end of the survey, our reviewers tell us specific things they liked and disliked. They also have the opportunity to share additional comments about their experiences with the mattresses.
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How to shop for a hybrid mattress in a box

best mattress bear elite hybrid testing at good housekeeping

Though all hybrid mattresses in a box share certain qualities, there is a wide range of models available with unique differentiators. Here's what to consider when you shop:

  • Materials: Hybrids are typically made up of memory foam on the top with coils on the bottom, but you can also find them with other materials too. Opt for a latex hybrid if you avoid synthetic materials or if you prefer the bouncy feel of latex instead of cradling memory foam.
  • Height: A taller mattress tends to have more layers inside, making it feel more luxurious. They also tend to feel softer because they contain more foam, whereas shorter mattresses may feel more firm. Also note that the taller the mattress, the heavier it will feel during setup and bed making.
  • Sleep position: Hybrid mattresses in a box usually feel softer than innerspring mattresses, making them ideal for side sleepers because they cradle pressure points. Opt for a medium firmness if you're a back or combination sleeper and medium-firm to firm if you sleep on your stomach.
  • Delivery: Boxed mattresses are intended for DIY setup, meaning you can expect them to be delivered to your door like any other package from UPS or FedEx. Be sure to check the anticipated delivery; some may arrive within days, whereas others are built to order and could take weeks. Some brands will allow you to pay extra for in-home setup.
  • Cost: Our evaluations show that a good hybrid mattress in a box usually costs around $1,500-$2,000 for a Queen size. That being said, we've seen some standout options for under $1,000 (including our best value recommendation, the Allswell Luxe Hybrid) and there are pricier options that are certainly worth the splurge.
  • Trial period: Most online brands let you try out the mattress in your home risk-free, meaning you can get a full refund if it's not a good fit. Make sure to check the fine print, including the return window, any hidden return fees and whether they arrange for mattress removal. We recommend focusing on the trial period rather than the warranty, which only covers manufacturer defects that can be difficult to prove.
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Pros and cons of a hybrid mattress in a box

an image of foam, spring and latex

Pros:

  • Hybrid mattresses combine the benefits of foam and innerspring beds. You get more pressure relief and motion isolation from the foam along with support and durability from coils.
  • Boxed mattresses are highly rated for convenience. They ship quickly through a regular package service (like UPS or FedEx) and arrive contact-free. Testers like that they can set up the mattress on their own time, rather than having to schedule and wait around for a delivery service.
  • Boxed hybrid mattresses have a good online presence, making it easier to shop and compare models. If you don't love the mattress once it arrives, most brands offer an any-reason return policy for several months.

Cons:

  • Hybrids cost more than traditional boxed mattresses, which contain primarily foam.
  • A mattress in a box with hybrid materials is heavier than an all-foam model. It will likely require multiple people to set up the mattress, especially if you have to carry it upstairs. Free in-home setup typically isn't included with boxed mattresses.

Hybrid Mattress in a Box FAQs

double line break

Can I flip my hybrid mattress in a box?

No; a hybrid is built with a set top and bottom and is therefore not reversible. The bottom contains steel coils and sometimes a durable base for stability, and the top is designed for comfort and pressure relief. Some hybrid models can be rotated head to foot, but others have an ergonomic layout to support spinal alignment. If you prefer to rotate to prevent indents, make sure to check this aspect before you buy.

Do I need a box spring for a hybrid mattress in a box?

No; in fact, hybrid mattresses with a substantial amount of memory foam may not even be compatible with box springs. Because hybrid mattresses already contain coils on the bottom, a box spring isn't needed for support.

What bed base is best for hybrid mattresses in a box?

A hybrid mattress needs a flat, firm foundation. This can mean a wooden board on your base, or you can use a bed with slats as long as they are spaced close together (no more than 3 inches apart). And because boxed hybrid mattresses are flexible, you should be able to use them on an adjustable base.

How long do hybrid mattresses in a box last?

In general, you can expect a hybrid mattress in a box to last 5 to 10 years. That being said, there's no expiration date on mattresses and their longevity can vary based on the quality of materials and how well you keep your mattress protected.

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Why you can trust Good Housekeeping

double line break

Lexie Sachs is the executive director of strategy and operations at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she oversees bedding testing, including mattresses. She has been actively researching, analyzing and reporting on mattresses for over 10 years and has extensively reviewed dozens of boxed hybrid mattresses by meeting with brands, surveying real mattress owners and conducting consumer tests. Lexie has also personally tried most of the models featured in this article.

Recent mattress testing has been managed by textiles product reviews analyst Grace Wu. Grace regularly evaluates mattresses herself, coordinates consumer testing and writes about beds for every type of sleeper. She holds a Master of Engineering in materials science and engineering and a Bachelor of Science in fiber science from Cornell University.

Headshot of Lexie Sachs
Lexie Sachs
Executive Director, Strategy & Operations

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.

Headshot of Grace Wu
Tested byGrace Wu
Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab Product Analyst

Grace Wu (she/her) is a product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she evaluates fabric-based products using specialized equipment and consumer tester data. Prior to starting at Good Housekeeping in 2022, she earned a master of engineering in materials science and engineering and a bachelor of science in fiber science from Cornell University. While earning her degrees, Grace worked in research laboratories for smart textiles and nanotechnology and held internships at Open Style Lab and Rent the Runway.

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