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Best Overall | Best Under $500 | Best Foam | Best for Back Pain | Best Hybrid | Best Cooling | Best Lightweight | Best Under $300 | Best For Couples | Best Soft | Best Firm Latex A "mattress in a box" is exactly what it sounds like: The mattress is compressed, packaged into a box and typically shipped to your door via a mail delivery service. Compared to traditional mattresses, the main benefit here is convenience — these mattresses often ship quickly, cost less and allow for DIY setup at your convenience. They're particularly ideal for busy individuals, apartment renters, long-distance movers and budget-conscious shoppers.I've been testing mattresses at the Good Housekeeping Institute for over a decade, where our team of fiber scientists, engineers and product analysts work together to combine feedback from our in-house product evaluations with the experiences of our at-home testers. In the past few years alone, we've evaluated over 120 mattress models. We also asked 10,000 mattress owners on our survey panel to share insights on the models they've purchased themselves.To find the best options, we consider everything from comfort and support to ease of delivery and set up to how well it holds up over time and more. In short, we've tested all of the most popular mattresses in a box to make our recommendations for the best mattresses, with prices listed for Queen sizes.Best Overall: Casper Original MattressPros Earned top marks from our panel of consumers Ergonomic design for alignment Available at retailers that specify a delivery date before you buyCons This model may be phased out by Casper based on its new introductionsWHO IT'S BEST FOR:Side and back sleepers, thanks to its zoned supportAnyone who enjoys the cradling feel of foamCasper is our top boxed mattress pick thanks to its high scores for comfort, ergonomic layout and convenient delivery. The brand offers a variety of mattresses to choose from, but we think this one hits the sweet spot between quality and value. It features zoned layers designed to keep your spine aligned, helping it stand out among other all-foam models we tested. And because the inside is entirely foam, it's lighter and easier to set up than boxed hybrids that contain metal coils.Casper recently launched a new mattress collection and may soon phase out this model. The most comparable mattress in its new line is The One, which costs less but lacks the ergonomics zone and hasn't performed as well in our at-home tests. The good news is that as of now, you can still buy this Original model. Another perk: It's available at retailers like Amazon that let you know the exact delivery date before you purchase. (Most direct-to-consumer brands will only give a shipping timeframe, making it hard to know when the mattress will show up at your door.)Over 100 reviewers told us they love their Casper mattress, especially highlighting the price, ease of buying, support and overall comfort. One user even told us, "It's the best one I've ever owned," while another explained liking it because "it conforms to your body." Users also had great experiences working with the brand's customer service, with no major issues to report.READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Casper Original MattressMattress type: Memory foam | Height: 11 inches | Weight (Queen): 79 pounds | Firmness: Medium firm | Trial period: 100 days Best Under $500: Allswell Luxe Hybrid MattressPros Hybrid model combines foam and coils Testers rated it more highly than some pricier brands Easy ordering, delivery and setupCons Users say it lacks edge supportWHO IT'S BEST FOR:Budget shoppers looking for the most comfortable mattress under $500Young adults, especially apartment renters and new homeownersDespite its low price, Allswell stands out for its exceptional comfort, according to our consumer panel. This hybrid mattress combines memory foam, coils and a quilted pillowtop for a balance of pressure relief and support. It's available exclusively at Walmart and typically arrives within days of ordering, in our experience.Our reviewers agreed it’s well worth the price, with several noting it alleviated their neck and back pain. One tester even said, "It feels like sleeping on a real, plush hotel mattress, but at a fraction of the price." The main downside is that it tends to sink at the edges when getting in and out of bed. However, users praised the smooth ordering process, fast delivery and easy setup.READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Allswell Luxe Hybrid MattressMattress type: Hybrid | Height: 12 inches | Weight (Queen): 95 pounds | Firmness: Medium | Trial period: 90 daysBest Foam: Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Cloud MattressPros Made with popular Tempur foam Good pressure relief and motion isolation Stands up to long-term useCons Pricier than other boxed modelsWHO IT'S BEST FOR:Side sleepersAnyone who wants to experience the luxury Tempur material without paying full price for a top-of-the-line modelTempur-Pedic mattresses are known for their high-quality foam that conforms to your body and minimizes motion transfer, but most models cost over $3,000 and require in-home setup. The Tempur-Cloud model, however, is a lighter, compressed version that ships via UPS to your door. While it may feel a bit firm at first, users note that it gradually adapts to their body for a personalized fit.Our reviewers rated it highly for comfort, support and overall sleep quality. One told us, "I feel like my entire body is supported in a very gentle way," and long-term owners have been impressed by its durability. A tester who previously used a more traditional mattress-in-a-box noted, "It was definitely a major upgrade."READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Tempur-Cloud MattressMattress type: Memory foam | Height: 10 inches | Weight (Queen): 57 pounds | Firmness: Medium | Trial period: 90 daysBest for Back Pain: Nolah Original 10"Pros Users told us it alleviated their pain Earned high scores for comfort and support Felt cooler than other foam beds in our testsConsOn the shorter sideWHO IT'S BEST FOR:People suffering from back pain, hip pain, pregnancy-related pain, sciatica and other discomforts that disturb sleepSide sleepers, which is also the sleep position recommended for people with back painThe best mattresses for back pain typically have medium firmness and use memory foam for pressure relief and alignment for side sleepers. Nolah's boxed hybrid meets these criteria and earned praise from users who found it alleviated their back pain.Several reviewers told us they were amazed by how much it reduced their discomfort. One user shared, "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." Another noted, "It offers back support while cradling pressure points, significantly helping my husband’s scoliosis." Reviewers also highlighted that it has held up well over time and sleeps cool, despite being foam-based.A note on delivery: While designed for DIY setup, in-home delivery and setup is available for an additional $125.READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Nolah Original MattressMattress type: Memory foam | Height: 10 inches | Weight (Queen): 70 pounds | Firmness: Medium | Trial period: 120 daysBest Hybrid: Bear Elite HybridPros Multiple firmness options Some testers said it's the most comfortable mattress they've slept on Zoned sections for ergonomic reliefCons On the heavier side for a boxed model We couldn't validate the brand's recovery claimsWHO IT'S BEST FOR:Anyone who's struggled to find a comfortable mattressPeople who aren't sure whether they prefer a foam or spring model, since it combines bothSleepers with back painLightweight and low-cost boxed mattresses are usually made from foam, but for an upgraded feel, you can opt for a hybrid model like Bear’s, which combines foam layers with coils for added support and breathability.Our sleep testers have been consistently impressed with this mattress' high level of comfort. It features an ergonomic design with five zones to promote spine alignment, offering varying levels of pressure relief and support. While it’s heavier than other boxed models, that's typical for a taller mattress.Although it’s designed for DIY setup, Bear offers white glove delivery for $175. One note: The brand claims the mattress uses natural minerals to convert body heat into energy for enhanced recovery. While we couldn't verify these claims in our review process, we still recommend this mattress for its outstanding comfort.Our reviewers rated it highly, with some telling us it is the most comfortable bed they’ve ever slept on. Many reported better sleep, with one saying, “This is undoubtedly the best mattress we’ve ever owned. We’ve traveled all over and have never had the sleep experience we now enjoy every night.”RELATED: The Best Hybrid Mattresses in a BoxMattress type: Hybrid | Height: 14 inches | Weight (Queen): 110 pounds | Firmness: Luxury Plush, Luxury Firm, Extra Firm | Trial period: 120 daysBest Cooling: The Purple MattressPros Good support with pressure relief Superior motion isolation Grid layer is breathable, helping it feel coolCons Heavier than other foam modelsWHO IT'S BEST FOR:Hot sleepersCouples, since it offers motion isolationHeavier body weights, since it has a weight capacity of 600 pounds (or 300 pounds per side)Purple features a grid-shaped elastic material in the top layer of this mattress, giving it a unique feel that’s squishy yet firm, offering a balance of support and pressure relief. Beneath the grid are two layers of memory foam, though the gel layer makes it a bit heavier than other foam boxed mattresses we tested.Reviewers described this mattress as the ideal mix of soft and firm, with some users even saying they couldn't feel their partner move during the night. However, unlike other models that ship quickly, some users experienced longer-than-expected delivery times. Despite this, reviewers praised its comfort, telling us it felt like “sleeping on air” and “floating in every sleeping position.” They also noted its impressive cooling capabilities throughout the night.RELATED: The Best Cooling Mattresses for Hot SleepersMattress type: Memory foam | Height: 9.25 inches | Weight (Queen): 100 pounds | Firmness: Medium firm | Trial period: 100 daysBest Lightweight: Tuft & Needle Original MattressPros Weighs less for easier setup Supportive foam Good motion isolationCons Lacks edge supportWHO IT'S BEST FOR:People who need their mattress set up quicklySide and back sleepersAnyone who prefers the feel of memory foam without it feeling too softThis no-frills mattress features a simple two-layer foam design, yet we found it to be surprisingly comfortable and supportive. Its lightweight construction makes it easier to lift and set up compared to heavier models. Plus, with Amazon Prime, it offers speedy delivery — sometimes as fast as two days — so you know exactly when it will arrive.The mattress received lots of praise from our consumer panel for comfort, support and motion isolation, with many users reporting they couldn't feel their partners moving during the night. Several also appreciated its firmer-than-expected feel for memory foam. One reviewer noted, "My Tuft & Needle mattress is so much more comfortable than any mattress I've ever had." The main downside is that the edges lack support, so it may sag if you sit on the side.RELATED: The Best Mattresses on AmazonMattress type: Memory foam | Height: 10 inches | Weight (Queen): 66 pounds | Firmness: Medium firm | Trial period: 100 daysBest Under $300: Linenspa 8-inch Hybrid MattressPros Unbeatable value Popular among reviewers Lightweight for easy setupCons No trial period Thin, so may not feel as luxurious as other models on our listWHO IT'S BEST FOR:Anyone mattress shopping on a tight budgetPeople in temporary living situations (like apartment renters)Bunk bed and trundle bed users, since these beds require a thinner mattressWe think this best-selling, budget-friendly mattress is a great deal for under $300, especially given how highly rated it was by our consumer survey panel. Plus, it boasts over 139,000 reviews on Amazon with an average 4.4-star rating.With quick shipping, dozens of users told us it was incredibly easy to order and set up, and they unanimously agreed it was well worth the price. While it has a low profile and some reviewers told us that it felt a bit thin, overall there were no major complaints.One user summed it up by saying, "You won't find a better mattress for the price. The company is awesome, the mattress arrived two days after I ordered and was in perfect condition! Setting it up took less than five minutes."RELATED: The Best Cheap Mattresses That Don't Skimp on ComfortMattress type: Hybrid | Height: 8 inches | Weight (Queen): 63 pounds | Firmness: Medium firm | Trial period: N/ABest For Couples: Helix Dusk LuxePros Ideal for multiple sleep positions Ergonomic layout for proper alignment Hybrid with foam and coilsCons Heavy and lacks side handles Pricey for a boxed modelWHO IT'S BEST FOR:Couples with different firmness needsBack sleepers and combination sleepers who need a medium firmnessPeople who prefer a taller bedHelix’s mattress is a great compromise for couples with different sleep preferences, offering a balance between firm and soft. This tall hybrid combines multiple layers of foam and coils, with zoned sections for targeted support and pressure relief to help keep you aligned. However, because it’s taller and has more layers, it’s one of the heavier boxed mattresses on this list and it lacks side handles for easy maneuvering.Our reviewers praised its strong edge support and contouring feel without sinking. Testers gave it high marks for comfort, support and sleep quality, especially appreciating its support in various sleep positions. One tester noted, "It's a good mix for me, a side sleeper, and my partner, a back sleeper)."READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Helix Dusk Luxe Mattress Mattress type: Hybrid | Height: 14 inches | Weight (Queen): 115 pounds | Firmness: Medium | Trial period: 100 daysBest Soft: Puffy Lux HybridPros Plush and comfy feel Conforms to pressure points Hybrid to add coil supportCons Testers didn't seem to notice the claimed cooling effectWHO IT'S BEST FOR:People who prefer a plush bedSide sleepers and back pain sufferers, thanks to its pressure reliefA good soft mattress should feel plush without sagging, and Puffy's model offers a luxurious feel that’s not overly soft. This hybrid combines the support of coils with the conforming comfort of foam for pressure point relief, with several foam layers adding extra cushioning.Testers describe lying on this mattress as feeling like they're sleeping on a cloud, but they still give it high marks for support. One even told us, "I am able to sleep more deeply on it," while others noted that it has alleviated the aches and pains they experienced with firmer innerspring beds. Just note that although the brand claims it has cooling properties, testers didn't observe this during their reviews. On the plus side, users liked that it was not too soft, saying it kept its shape without sagging under their weight.READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Puffy Lux MattressMattress type: Hybrid | Height: 12 inches | Weight (Queen): 83 pounds | Firmness: Medium Plush | Trial period: 101 daysBest Firm Latex: Avocado Green MattressPros Certified organic Latex is firmer and more resilient than memory foam Durable constructionCons Pricey (and the plusher version costs even more)WHO IT'S BEST FOR:Back and stomach sleepersHeavier bodies that need a firmer surface to prevent sinkingMost boxed mattresses use memory foam, but this organic mattress from Avocado uses latex for a firmer feel. (As a hybrid latex model, it combines latex with coils, unlike most hybrids that pair memory foam with coils.) Rated 7 out of 10 on Avocado's firmness scale, it’s one of the firmest boxed beds we've seen available, and it's also certified organic by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and the Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS).Users told us they love this particular model for its even weight distribution and durability. One reviewer said, "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 of use." Our panelists also gave the Avocado brand high praise in general for its "excellent" customer service and its sustainability efforts that don't sacrifice comfort or quality.READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Avocado Green MattressMattress type: Latex hybrid | Height: 11, 13 or 15.5 inches | Weight (Queen): 94 pounds | Firmness: Firm, Medium, Plush | Trial period: 365 daysHow we test boxed mattressesThe bedding experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab evaluate mattresses on an ongoing basis to ensure the ones we recommend are easy to set up and comfortable to sleep on.We start our process by evaluating materials, specs, features and performance claims from the brands, as well as check for any consumer complaints. Brands with red flags for quality or customer service are eliminated from our recommendations.Next, we test the mattresses firsthand, with our product analysts and consumer testers providing detailed feedback. We survey testers after several weeks and again after longer periods to assess durability. On top of all that, we survey our proprietary panel of mattress owners. In recent years, we've gathered insights from over 10,000 mattress users, analyzing more than 170,000 responses.Here is the criteria we look at when rating each mattress:Ease of ordering and delivery: Reviewers rate the shopping experience, delivery speed and any issues they encountered, along with how customer service handled potential problems.Ease of setup: Especially crucial for boxed mattresses, since users typically set up the mattress themselves, testers describe the setup process and how quickly the mattress took its proper shape.Firmness rating: Reviewers provide their own firmness ratings, which often differ from the brand’s claims, especially for boxed foam and hybrid models that may feel softer than expected.Edge support: Testers sit on the edge of the bed to assess whether it holds up under pressure or sinks.Comfort: Our testers rate comfort and support, as well as how much they enjoyed sleeping on the mattress initially and over time.Temperature regulation: Reviewers evaluate how well the mattress maintains a comfortable body temperature, regardless of cooling claims.Overall sleep quality: We assess how the mattress impacts sleep quality and whether testers experience soreness upon waking. Respondents give an overall satisfaction score and compare it to previous beds they've slept on.Additional feedback: Reviewers share specific likes, dislikes and any additional comments in open-ended questions.What are the benefits of a boxed mattress?Mattresses that ship in a box generally look and feel similar to traditional ones. The main difference is that boxed mattresses are compressed, rolled up and shipped via mail delivery. While not all come in boxes — some use bags or other packaging — you order them online, and they arrive at your door for setup at your own pace.Most boxed mattresses are made of foam or a foam-coil hybrid, as traditional innerspring models can't be compressed and rolled. The weight and ease of setup will vary, though some brands offer setup services for an additional fee.What are the drawbacks of boxed mattresses?Before purchasing a boxed mattress, consider potential downsides. First, they require DIY setup, so you'll need help if you're unable to do it alone. Also, foam-based models likely won't last quite as long as innerspring mattresses because the foam typically doesn't hold up as well as metal coils.You may also be concerned about buying a mattress without trying it in person, however, the truth is that it's hard to get a sense of how comfortable any mattress will feel to sleep on without actually sleeping on it. Most online mattress brands offer a 100-day trial with full refunds if it's not a fit, often donating or recycling returned mattresses. Just be sure to read the fine print — some brands have return fees or require you to handle disposal.Finally, keep in mind that customer service can vary widely between brands. We ask our survey respondents to detail their experiences, and we extensively review consumer complaints before recommending mattresses, avoiding brands with significant issues, lawsuits or FTC violations. To quickly check a brand’s reputation, browse consumer comments on its social media pages.How much does a mattress in a box cost?Most mattress-in-a-box models range from $1,000 to $2,000 for a Queen size. Budget-friendly options under $500 are still available and worth considering, while luxury models can exceed $2,000 if you're looking to splurge. Generally, the higher the price, the more layers the mattress will have.How long do mattresses in a box last?A boxed mattress should last 8 to 10 years, but it’s better to watch for signs it needs replacing rather than sticking to a timeline. Look for lumps, indents or waking up sore, and if you sleep better away from home, it’s likely time for a new mattress.If you're not ready for a full replacement, a mattress topper can be a quick fix. Toppers, typically a few inches thick, can add firmness, pressure relief, or softness with materials like memory foam, latex, down or fiberfill.Do boxed mattresses need a box spring?No. Using a box spring could be potentially damaging for many types of mattresses in a box. Most boxed mattresses are made of foam, and foam isn't compatible with box springs because it can easily sag. Instead, opt for a flat, hard surface.What to consider when shopping for a bed in a box• Mattress Type: Foam mattresses provide pressure relief and contour to your body, while innerspring mattresses with metal coils offer a firmer, bouncier feel. Hybrid mattresses combine both features, but boxed hybrid models tend to be softer than traditional innerspring versions, which can't be compressed and rolled.• Certifications: Most boxed mattresses are made with foam, so it's important to look for third-party certifications like CertiPUR-US (which all of our foam recommendations have) or GreenGuard to ensure they don't contain unsafe levels of off-gassing chemicals. For mattresses with organic claims, seek certifications like the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) or Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS). Keep in mind, however, that memory foam mattresses can never be considered fully natural or organic.• Bed Base: Most boxed mattress materials, especially memory foam, work better on a flat, hard surface. If you have a bed frame with slats, they should be close together to avoid mattress sagging. And don't forget to measure the frame to ensure the mattress will fit; while mattress sizes are typically consistent, there have been instances of fit issues in our tests. If you sleep on an adjustable base, make sure to opt for a mattress that works with an adjustable bed. Most foam mattresses are compatible because they can easily bend.• Firmness: How you sleep affects what type of mattress you'll need; the goal is to keep your spine aligned. Side sleepers need a softer surface to take the weight off pressure points like hips and shoulders, stomach sleepers need a firmer surface for support, and back or combo sleepers can fall somewhere in between.• Delivery Options: Most mattresses ship in a box for DIY setup, though some brands offer white glove delivery, where they handle everything and can even remove your old mattress. Interestingly, most of our testers found DIY setup easier than scheduling a delivery, and many preferred the convenience of contact-free delivery.• Trial Period: Ideally, the mattress you purchase should offer a trial period allowing you to sleep on it for at least a month to ensure it’s a good fit. If you’re not satisfied, most brands will pick it up and donate it. Be sure to check for any fees and the return process beforehand. We recommend prioritizing trial periods over warranties, as trial periods offer refunds for any reason, while warranties only cover manufacturer defects, which can be hard to prove.Why trust Good Housekeeping?Lexie Sachs is the executive director of strategy and operations at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she oversees bedding content and testing. She has been researching and reporting on boxed mattresses since they first gained popularity over a decade ago. Lexie has reviewed dozens of models, meeting with brands, surveying mattress owners and conducting consumer tests. She has also personally tested a wide range of boxed mattresses across various price points, materials and shipping methods.In recent years, Grace Wu, a textiles product reviews analyst, has conducted GH's mattress testing. Grace regularly evaluates mattresses, coordinates consumer tests and writes about beds for all types of sleepers. She holds a master’s degree in materials science and engineering, and a bachelor’s degree in fiber science from Cornell University.More of our top-tested mattress guidesBest Mattresses | Best Online Mattresses | Best Cheap Mattresses | Best Innerspring Mattress | Best Hybrid Mattresses | Best Organic Mattresses | Best Latex Mattresses | Best Mattresses for Side Sleepers | Best Mattresses for Back Pain | Best Cooling Mattresses