Which is the Best Mattress of 2017? What’s the difference between a $1,000 Sleep Number adjustable air mattress and one that costs three times that? Not much according to Consumer Reports’ latest mattress tests. The Sleep Number c2 Bed matched the Sleep Number i8 bed Pillowtop, $3,000, in our tests for back and side support. Even better, we bought the Sleep Number c2 Bed on sale for $700. Here are the details plus news on other new mattresses in our tests. For our body-support tests we graph the spine’s natural curve on a range of test subjects. Then we evaluate back support by recording how thoroughly a mattress maintains that curve. For side support, we check whether the mattress keeps the spine relatively horizontal when a test subject lies on her side. The best mattresses have a good score or better for both. In our tests, across various firmness settings, the Sleep Number c2 Bed and the more expensive Sleep Number i8 bed Pillowtop both delivered impressive side support and even better back support.
And the c2 Bed was more stable, which means less annoying to your mate when you change sleep positions. When we took a closer look at the two mattresses we discovered that both were comprised of the same pair of identical air bladders—one for each side, so each partner can customize firmness. But with the Sleep Number c2 Bed, the foam layer on top was significantly thinner than the one you get with the i8 bed. While this difference wouldn’t show up in our body-support tests, you might notice a difference in overall comfort. That’s another reason to try out mattresses in the store before buying, as we routinely advise. Among adjustable air beds, we also tested the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Choice Supreme, at $3,200 the most expensive of the trio in our tests. Although it was impressive for back support, the Tempur-Pedic was an also-ran behind the two recommended Sleep Numbers. But another Tempur-Pedic, the $1,200 Tempur-Pedic Tempur Simplicity, was among our top picks in foam mattresses.
Once a mattress starts showing its age and is lumpy or sagging, we suggest replacing it even if it’s newer than the 10 years normally recommended. Before shopping, check our buying guide for mattresses and look at our mattress Ratings of 25 innerspring, foam, and adjustable air mattresses priced as low as $515. We also have reader recommendations for mattress retailers and brands. —Ed Perratore (@EdPerratore on Twitter) View and compare all Mattresses ratings. Sleep Number i8 bed mattress This queen-size, foam/adjustable-air mattress from Sleep Number measures 12 inches high and weighs 63 pounds. It has no grips for handling. to get immediate access to our unbiased reviews and ratings The Sleep Number i8 bed is part of the Mattress test program at Consumer Reports. In our lab tests, Mattress models like the i8 bed are rated on multiple criteria, such as those listed below. Petite side sleeper: Sleepers small in both height and weight.
Average side sleeper: An average of both the petite and large scores that applies to many people. Large/Tall side sleeper: Side sleepers who are above 6 ft 2 inches tall and/or 220 pounds. Cradles Side Sleepers Without Sinking In Sealy Posturepedic Hybrid Elite Kelburn Mattress (Twin XL-Cal King), $850-$1,900, Sleepy'sIf you're a side sleeper, then the Sealy Posturepedic Hybrid Elite Kelburn mattress is an awesome option for you. It's one of Consumer Reports' highest rated for innerspring mattresses because it maximizes contact with the sleeper and seriously limits the amount of vibration transport for partners. "We absolutely love this mattress!" says one reviewer. "It's firm but not hard. The top foam layer has just enough give to cradle a side sleeper without sinking in like a full memory foam mattress." Number One Highest Rated Memory Foam Mattress Casper Sleep Mattress (Twin-Cal King), $500-$950, AmazonThe Casper is the number one highest rated memory foam mattress on Consumer Reports, and that's because it's super durable, great for any kind of sleeper (back, side, or stomach), and it's both stable and body-conforming.
On top of all that, it's an extremely affordable mattress that reviewers are seriously loving: "The bed is incredibly comfortable and provides a great sleep. It provides the isolation of a quality memory foam mattress with the cool surface of a latex sleeper." Durability, Comfort, And Temperature Control EA Signature Firm Mattress (Twin-Cal King), $1,444-$2,549, Ethan AllenThe Signature Firm Mattress performed very well on Consumer Reports' back support tests. It's also really durable, breathable, and easily conforms to the shape of your spine both for side and back sleepers. It has a combination of innersprings and gel-infused foam for the utmost comfort, and it also has cooling gel and air flow channels for temperature control while you sleep. Gel Beads That Support Your Spinal Curve Novaform Serafina Pearl Gel Queen Memory Foam Mattress, $957, AmazonInfused with gel beads that do wonders as far as supporting your spinal curve, the Novaform Serafina Pearl Gel Queen memory foam mattress is the second highest rated memory foam mattress on Consumer Reports.
It performed particularly well on the back support tests, and the reviews are really impressive: "My husband and I both have sleep trackers and were surprised to see the difference this mattress has made to our sleep. We fall asleep faster and have fewer restless minutes," says one happy customer. Great For Back Sleepers Because It Conforms To Your Curves Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Flex Prima Mattress (Twin-Split Cal King), $1,599-$3,199, Sleepy's The Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Flex Prima mattress uses hybrid construction — precision coil layers combined with tempur material — for support that instantly responds to the curves of your body. It's especially great for back sleepers, says Consumer Reports, and it's a great mattress for people of any size. "This is the bed worth every penny for the best sleep every time, all the time," says one thrilled reviewer. "Feeling well rested and ready for the day!" If You're Looking For Personalized Support And Temperature Control Sleep Number i8 Bed, (Twin Long-Flex Top Cal King), $2,200-$4,000, Sleep NumberHighest rated in the category of adjustable air mattresses, you've got the Sleep Number i8 bed.