Written by Lauren Hapgood, Performance Editor
The industry ranks mattress firmness on a scale of 1 (the softest) to 10 (the firmest). Most sleepers wanting a balanced feel should opt for the best medium-firm mattress (6.5/10 on the firmness scale). These beds offer versatility, good lumbar support, and plenty of comfort. Our team at Mattress Clarity reviewed several medium-firm mattresses using testing and analysis. From the results, we’ve compiled a roundup of the best medium-firm mattresses.
Our Verdict: What’s the Best Medium-Firm Mattress?
Our expert reviewers chose the Helix Midnight as the best medium-firm mattress due to its high-quality materials, well-rounded features, and good value.
Best Medium-Firm Mattress: Our Top 10 Picks
- Helix Midnight – Editor’s Pick
- WinkBed – Best Medium-Firm Cooling Mattress
- Nolah Evolution – Best Medium-Firm Hybrid Mattress
- Saatva – Best Medium-Firm Mattress for Back Pain
- Bear Original – Best Medium-Firm Mattress for Back Sleepers
- Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Best Medium-Firm Value Mattress
- Birch – Best Medium-Firm Organic Mattress
- Layla – Best Medium-Firm Memory Foam Mattress
- Nectar – Best Medium-Firm Mattress for Side Sleepers
- Dreamfoam Essential – Best Medium-Firm Budget Mattress
Best Medium-Firm Mattresses 2023: Video Roundup
Compare the Best Medium-Firm Mattresses
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| Helix Midnight Mattress | WinkBed Mattress | Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress | Saatva Mattress | Bear Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress | Birch Mattress | Layla Mattress | Nectar Mattress | Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress | |
| Rating | ||||||||||
| Firmness | Medium-firm: 7/10 | Multiple firmness options | Multiple firmness options | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 7/10 | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Medium-firm: 7/10 |
| Material | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Innerspring | Foam | Hybrid | Hybrid | Foam | Foam | Foam |
| Cooling | -- | ✓ | -- | ✓ | ✓ | -- | ✓ | ✓ | -- | -- |
| Sleep Position | Back & Side | Combination | Back & Side | Back & Stomach | Back & Side | Back | Back & Stomach | Combination | Back & Side | Back & Side |
How We Chose the Best Medium-Firm Mattress
Our team of Certified Sleep Science Coaches has reviewed more than 150 mattresses, using proprietary analysis and hands-on testing to establish easy-to-understand scores. In addition to an overall score, we measure subscores for support, edge support, cooling, motion transfer, durability, trial period, and warranty. You can read more about our testing methods at the bottom of this roundup.
When we talk about medium-firm mattresses, the first words that come to mind are “comfort” and “support.” Medium-firm mattresses need a combination of these factors to achieve a balanced feel. Out of the 10 selections in this roundup, seven scored at least a 4 out of 5 in support. The rest scored at least an above-average 3 out of 5.
Helix Midnight Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Midnight Mattress
The Helix Midnight is the brand's most popular model. It has a balance of comfort and support and should be an excellent match for back sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Midnight Mattress
The Helix Midnight is the brand's most popular model. It has a balance of comfort and support and should be an excellent match for back sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
The Helix Midnight is an incredibly well-rounded, medium-firm mattress. This model is made of high-quality materials and sold at a value price. It’s great for those wanting a balanced foam feel since the hybrid’s durable coils add responsiveness. The Midnight offers nice pressure relief and lots of support to keep sleepers’ spines in proper alignment. The medium-firm feel makes it an excellent fit for back sleepers and anyone needing a fantastic orthopedic mattress. Most side sleepers should appreciate the comfy contouring this bed provides.
What the testers say: “I’m a back and side sleeper, and the Helix Midnight felt like a perfect fit for me. It contoured nicely to my body, and the mattress gave me the classic memory foam feel where I sank right into it rather than sitting on top of it.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the Helix Midnight
- Good motion isolation
- Helix Midnight Luxe upgrade available
- Great for hot sleepers
Cons of the Helix Midnight
- Not great for heavy sleepers
- Not great for stomach sleepers
Read our full Helix Midnight mattress review for more information. Or if you’re looking for more options, take a look at our Best Mattresses of 2023.
WinkBed Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
WinkBed Mattress
The WinkBed is a mattress that offers an excellent balance of comfort and support.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
WinkBed Mattress
The WinkBed is a mattress that offers an excellent balance of comfort and support.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
If you’re a hot sleeper who doesn’t want to wake up stuffy, opt for the WinkBed. The cover incorporates Tencel (a breathable material sourced from eucalyptus trees), and the comfort layer’s foam is gel-infused to further promote cooling. Finally, the support layer of individually wrapped coils allows for lots of additional airflow. The WinkBed comes in three firmnesses, but the Luxury Firm version is ideal for those wanting medium firmness.
What the testers say: “I got a great balance of comfort and support when I tried out the WinkBed. The zoning in this mattress gave me some great lumbar support, and sleepers that are smaller than me should find some really good pressure relief.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the WinkBed
- Great for back pain
- Has a bouncy innerspring feel
- Durable
Cons of the WinkBed
- Not budget-friendly
- Not good for couples
Read our full WinkBed mattress review to learn more. Or if you’re looking for more options, take a look at our list of the best cooling mattresses.
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
The Nolah Evolution is a high-end hybrid mattress that features great support, comfort, and cooling.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
The Nolah Evolution is a high-end hybrid mattress that features great support, comfort, and cooling.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Our Expert’s Take
If an innerspring mattress is too firm or if you get stuck in the layers of a memory foam mattress, try a hybrid. Hybrid beds combine strong coils with foam comfort layers. A medium-firm model like the Nolah Evolution creates a balanced feel. Along with its great hybrid features, the Nolah Evolution is one of the brand’s most luxurious models and is packed with advanced cooling technology, and is comfortable and supportive.
Note: This mattress comes in several different firmness levels. We recommend the luxury firm, which feels the closest to a medium-firm bed.
What the testers say: “The Nolah Evolution is a high-quality mattress that doesn’t disappoint. The mattress cover was cool to the touch, which is great for hot sleepers, and I felt a balance of comfort while still feeling some really great support from this mattress.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the Nolah Evolution
- Cooling features
- Great for combination sleepers
- Should last more than 10 years
Cons of the Nolah Evolution
- Not budget-friendly
- Not great for stomach sleepers
Read our full Nolah Evolution Hybrid mattress review. Looking for more recommendations, take a look at our best hybrid mattresses for other great options.
Saatva Mattress
Material
Innerspring
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva Mattress
The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
Material
Innerspring
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva Mattress
The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
Material
Innerspring
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
Medium-firm mattresses have the ideal firmness for alleviating and preventing back pain. The support offered promotes spinal alignment and the comfort layers contour to pain points. The Saatva is an excellent example of a mattress that’s great for back pain. Because of its dual set of steel coils and great edge support, premature sagging isn’t a concern. We recommend opting for the Luxury Firm model, but ultimately the right bed for your needs to suit your body type and sleeping position.
What the testers say: “The Saatva gave a nice, plush feel on the pillow-top layer, but has some great support from the two coil layers. I felt like I was sleeping on this mattress rather than in it, and it gave great lumbar support, which makes it great for helping to relieve back pain.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the Saatva
- Great for combination sleepers
- Cooling benefits
- 365-night trial and free white glove delivery
Cons of the Saatva
- Lacks a classic foam feel
- Not great for lightweight side sleepers
Read our full Saatva mattress review for more information. Or for more options, see our roundup for the best mattresses for back pain.
Bear Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Bear Mattress
The Bear Original mattress sleeps cool and is quite comfortable. It's a particularly good option for athletes.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Bear Mattress
The Bear Original mattress sleeps cool and is quite comfortable. It's a particularly good option for athletes.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
Medium-firm beds are ideal for back sleepers (especially average-weight back sleepers) because they blend comfort and support. With the Bear, sleepers should sink into the foam as it contours to their body. Its high-density foundation foam supports sleepers well, promoting neutral spine alignment. For an all-foam mattress, the quality materials add durability, so premature sagging shouldn’t be a concern.
What the testers say: “Laying on the Bear, I could feel my back sink into the top layer while the foam conformed to my body. The mattress gave me some great spinal support and good lumbar support too. It should be a great fit for most sleepers.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the Bear
- Great mattress for athletes
- Great for side sleepers
- Its foams are CertiPUR-US certified
Cons of the Bear
- Not great for stomach sleepers
- Not great for heavier side sleepers
Read the full Bear Original mattress review. For more options, see our best mattresses for back sleepers.
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
Brooklyn Bedding has amazing products that are sold at very affordable prices. This mattress is extremely high-quality and a great option for combination sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
Brooklyn Bedding has amazing products that are sold at very affordable prices. This mattress is extremely high-quality and a great option for combination sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Our Expert’s Take
Mattresses can be quite an investment, but with the Brooklyn Bedding Signature, you can get a high-quality mattress for a reasonable price. This is because Brooklyn Bedding has its factory and cuts out the middleman, so it can then pass the savings on to the customer. Both the comfort and transition layers provide responsiveness, so the Signature has a bouncy feel. Its six inches of Ascension coils give it plenty of support. This “on top of” feel is great for combination sleepers.
What the testers say: “The Brooklyn Bedding Signature hybrid felt both plush and supportive. I tried the medium firm model of this mattress, and the soft layers on the top and supportive lower layers offered a great balance of comfort and support.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature
- Multiple firmness options
- Great for back and side sleepers
- 10-year warranty and 120-night trial
Cons of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature
- Lacks classic foam feel
- Lacks great edge support
Read our full Brooklyn Bedding Signature mattress review to learn more. Not sold on the Brooklyn Bedding Signature, take a look at our best mattress for the money to see more recommendations.
Birch Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
25-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Birch Mattress
Birch is an eco-friendly mattress-in-a-box that’s made with natural latex and organic cotton and wool. It has a base layer of individually wrapped coils and comfort layers made with chemical-free latex foam.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
25-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Birch Mattress
Birch is an eco-friendly mattress-in-a-box that’s made with natural latex and organic cotton and wool. It has a base layer of individually wrapped coils and comfort layers made with chemical-free latex foam.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
25-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
If you’re worried about toxins and chemicals in your mattress, then you can rest assured on the Birch. It’s a medium-firm, eco-friendly mattress. On top of the bed, there’s an organic cotton cover. Talalay latex acts as the comfort layer above individually wrapped coils. This mattress is GREENGUARD and GOTS certified, meaning it passes rigorous emissions tests.
What the testers say: “As a back sleeper, the Birch was great to sleep on. The wool and latex layers allowed for my hips to sink in while also giving some great lumbar support. This should also make this mattress great for anyone who needs support with back pain.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the Birch
- Sleeps cool
- Great for heavier back and side sleepers
- Great for average-weight stomach sleepers
Cons of the Birch
- Lacks classic foam feel
- May be too firm for some
Read our full Birch mattress review. For more options, see our best organic mattresses.
Layla Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Layla Mattress
An innovative and flippable mattress, the Layla works for a variety of different types of sleepers.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Layla Mattress
An innovative and flippable mattress, the Layla works for a variety of different types of sleepers.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
The plush, all-foam, flippable Layla gives the best of both worlds with both a soft side and a firm side. It’s a great fit for most sleepers, and the best part is that unlike other foam mattresses, the Layla won’t trap heat. It’s infused with copper and Thermogel, so hot sleepers should sleep cool at night.
What the testers say: “With two firmness options, a firm side, and a soft side, the Layla should be a good fit for most sleepers and most people should find some comfort on this mattress. Stomach and back sleeping were great on the firm side, and I got some great pressure relief while side sleeping on the soft side.” -Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the Layla
- Cooling
- Great for hip pain
- Great for side sleepers
Cons of the Layla
- Not great for heavier stomach sleepers
- Not great for sleepers who want a bouncy mattress
Read our full Layla mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of the Best Memory Foam Mattress.
Nectar Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nectar Mattress
Nectar is a very comfortable memory foam mattress that happens to also be an amazing value.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nectar Mattress
Nectar is a very comfortable memory foam mattress that happens to also be an amazing value.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
Medium-firm mattresses offer additional support that can be great for heavier side sleepers, or side sleepers looking for a firmer feel. The Nectar has 3” of gel foam, followed by 2” of a higher-density foam as a transition layer. Its softer foam helps relieve pressure points around the shoulders and the hips. The transition foam keeps the side sleeper from sinking too far into the mattress. This is further supported by Nectar’s sturdy seven inches of base foam.
What the testers say: “I’m a person who occasionally sleeps on my side, and I think that the Nectar is a great fit for people who sleep in this position. Most people should get a nice bit of pressure relief when side sleeping, and the mattress gave me some great comfort overall.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the Nectar
- Great for joint pain or hip pain
- Great for hot sleepers
- Budget-friendly
Cons of the Nectar
- Not great for hot sleepers
- Not great for heavy sleepers
Read our full Nectar mattress review to learn more about this mattress. Or if you’re looking for more options, see our roundup of the best mattresses for side sleepers.
Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress
The Dreamfoam Essential is a cooling, affordable memory foam mattress that comes in multiple thicknesses.
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress
The Dreamfoam Essential is a cooling, affordable memory foam mattress that comes in multiple thicknesses.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Our Expert’s Take
The Dreamfoam Essential is a fantastic option for a budget mattress. It even appears on our roundup for the best mattresses under $500. Overall, this bed has a slower-moving memory foam feel, but you shouldn’t sink too far into the material. It includes a breathable cover and gel-infused memory foam for cooling. Because medium-firm mattresses accommodate many sleepers, this cheaper mattress could be great for a guest room or vacation home.
What the testers say: “The Dreamfoam is a great budget-friendly mattress that still has a quality feel. The memory foam in this mattress is great for pressure relief, and you should get some great comfort and support when sleeping on it.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the Dreamfoam Essential
- Made in the USA
- It has multiple height options
- It’s great for lightweight sleepers
Cons of the Dreamfoam Essential
- Not great for heavier sleepers
- Not great for stomach sleepers
Read our full Dreamfoam Essential mattress review. For more options, see our list of the best cheap mattresses.
Who Should Get A Medium-Firm Mattress?
So, is a medium-firm mattress right for you or not? If the following applies to you, a medium-firm mattress could be the perfect choice.
- Those who deal with back pain. If you’re unsure of what bed to select for back pain relief, opt for a medium-firm bed. A mattress that’s too soft lets the hips sink too far into the mattress, throwing the spine out of alignment. If you have a bed that’s too firm, you may not receive enough contouring and pressure relief for pain points. Regardless of your sleeping position, medium-firm mattresses are most likely to provide the proper balance of comfort and support for back pain.
- People who are unsure what firmness to get. Medium-firm mattresses are centered on the firmness scale and have a balanced feel. Because of this, they fit many different sleeping positions. This makes them ideal for combination sleepers or partners with different sleep preferences. This versatility also makes them great for guest rooms or vacation rentals.
- Back sleepers. Medium-firm mattresses are good for back sleepers, similar to how they are good for back pain. Side sleepers generally need a softer mattress to cradle the hips and shoulders, while stomach sleepers need a firmer mattress to keep the body elevated. On the other hand, back sleepers need pressure relief but also support to keep the hips lifted. For these sleepers, the right medium-firm mattress can prevent any stiffness or pain overnight.
Who Should Avoid A Medium-Firm Mattress?
While medium-firm mattresses will work for many types of sleepers, they won’t work for everyone.
- Fans of soft or firm mattresses. You might want a mattress on either side of the mattress firmness scale for a few reasons. Side sleepers, those with joint pain, and couples often enjoy softer mattresses. Stomach sleepers, heavier sleepers, and those with mobility issues normally go for firmer options. There are plenty of medium-firm mattresses that can accommodate the sleepers mentioned above. However, if you find yourself wanting a really soft or firm feel, then a medium-firm mattress may not be for you.
- Side sleepers. In general, side sleepers aren’t going to get the best pressure relief on medium-firm mattresses. Side sleepers should opt for a softer mattress that will cradle the shoulders and hips, relieving pressure in those areas.
RELATED: Firm vs Soft Mattresses
- Heavy people. Several medium-firm models include quality materials and boast constructions that do support heavier sleepers. However, the general rule is that heavy sleepers over 230 lbs need a larger amount of support. So, their safest bet is to find a firmer, more supportive mattress or even a mattress built specifically for heavy people.
What To Consider When Buying A Medium-Firm Mattress
Okay, you’ve decided a medium-firm mattress is right for you. Before you hit the “buy” button, there are a few more things to keep in mind.
Firmness
On a scale of 1-10, the industry standard for medium-firm is 6.5. Some brands will also call a 6 or 7 mattress medium-firm. However, if the mattress reviews and brands are all in this range, you can be sure this is a medium-firm mattress.
Body Type
Before selecting a medium-firm mattress, also consider your body type and sleeping position. For selecting the right mattress about one’s body type, we use three categories: lightweight sleepers (under 130 lbs), average-weight sleepers (130-230 lbs), and heavyweight sleepers (over 230 lbs). Lightweight sleepers will probably want to look for a softer mattress, while heavier sleepers will want a firmer mattress and more support. Average-weight sleepers are often somewhere in between.
Sleeping Position
For finding a mattress that fits one’s sleeping position, folks should be able to fit under one of these three main categories: side sleeping, back sleeping, and stomach sleeping.
- Side sleepers often need a softer mattress that provides pressure relief on the hips and shoulders.
- Back sleepers require a balance of comfort and support.
- Stomach sleepers should opt for a firmer mattress to keep the hips elevated.
While those are general guidelines, you should also consider your body type and sleeping position. For instance, a lightweight stomach sleeper is going to want a firmer feel than a lightweight side sleeper, who needs additional contouring and cushioning.
For more information on selecting the right mattress, check out our mattress buying guide.
Materials
The construction of a mattress dictates its firmness and feel. Some materials tend to provide more support than others, and some are built to provide more soft comfort. Companies make medium-firm mattresses with varying materials and constructions. Read on to find the best construction for you.
Memory Foam: Memory foam mattresses are known for their slow-moving feel. They’re great at providing pressure relief, which is great for side sleepers or those with joint pain. Often, memory foam mattresses fall short in durability and cooling. Look for memory foam mattresses with high-density foundation foam for increased support and durability. Many models break memory foam stereotypes by including cooling technology such as Phase Change Material (PCM) or gel-infused foam.
Innerspring: Innerspring mattresses include springs and a thinner comfort layer. Because of the construction, these beds excel at durability, support, and cooling. This makes them great for stomach sleepers, heavy sleepers, and hot sleepers. Though they fall short in pressure relief, many people add a mattress topper or mattress pad to make things a bit softer.
Hybrid: Hybrid mattresses are a combination of pressure-relieving foam mattresses and supportive innerspring. The construction makes them suitable for a wider range of sleepers. Hybrid mattresses may not be for those who especially favor the traditional feel of an innerspring or the slow-moving feel of memory foam.
Latex: Latex mattresses are known for their responsive (bouncy) feel and eco-friendliness. The material makes incredibly durable mattresses, and latex itself is naturally cooling, too. Because the material is so high-quality, they’re often one of the more expensive options out there.
Cooling
If you tend to wake up sweaty and stuffy, you might want to consider a cooling mattress. Each mattress is constructed differently. Some are naturally cooling, such as latex beds (the material itself is cooling) or innerspring beds (the coils allow for airflow). Many foam cooling beds include graphite, copper, or cooling-gel infusions within the foam to prevent you from overheating during the night.
Motion Transfer
If you sleep with a partner or pet, this is an essential consideration. A mattress with good motion isolation prevents you from feeling your partner or pet’s movements at night. Memory foam mattresses or beds with thicker comfort layers are great at trapping movement and ensuring light sleepers rest well. Adding a mattress topper can help with motion isolation as well.
Average Cost
Some prices out there are too good to be true; you might save a few hundred dollars, but the cheap mattress you buy may have low-quality materials that give it a short lifespan. An over-the-top expensive mattress may not offer you any more special features than a mattress a few hundred dollars less.
A good medium-firm mattress is going to cost around $1,500. Cheaper mattresses often cost $1,000 or less, and luxury mattresses often cost at least $2,000. Keep in mind that mattress materials and construction have an impact on price. So, memory foam mattresses — which have a simpler design — are going to cost less than hybrid and innerspring mattresses. Special features are also going to increase mattress prices.
Many companies slash prices around major holidays. We’ve found the best deals to center around one of the following five months:
- February (President’s Day)
- May (Memorial Day)
- September (Labor Day)
- November (Cyber 5 / Thanksgiving)
- December (Christmas)
Aside from holiday sales, shoppers can find discounts online. A great place to look is our Best Mattress Deals & Coupons page, which offers many exclusive discount coupons.
Warranty / Sleep Trial
Warranties protect the customer; they bind a company to replace a mattress if it arrives with defects and damages. Sleep trials are a set period where the customer can test out the mattress before fully committing to it. Longer warranties and sleep trials reflect a company’s confidence in its product. Above all else, it’s important to read the fine print. This is because every company has different policies and conditions.
How to Make Your Medium-Firm Bed More Comfortable
Once you’ve purchased your medium-firm mattress, there are a few ways to take the comfort up a notch. Consider the following accessories to make your mattress even more comfortable.
Mattress Topper or Mattress Pad
Mattress toppers are one to four-inch thick layers of padding meant to change the feel of a mattress. They can make a bed softer or firmer depending on the material. Mattress pads have thinner comfort layers than toppers, so they don’t change the mattress feel as drastically. Some are similar to mattress pads in that they can protect your bed from contaminants, like spills and stains.
RELATED: Mattress Pad vs Mattress Topper
Pillows
Pillows tend to be good for a couple of years, but we often use them for much longer than that. These accessories are prone to sag, and the wrong pillow can cause extreme discomfort. It can also affect spinal alignment. That’s why we recommend investing in one of the best pillows on the market.
Sheets
When you finally crawl into bed after a long day, the last thing you want is to get your foot caught in a hole in your sheets. Consider purchasing one of our favorite sheet sets. Whether you opt for smooth silk or crisp cotton, it’s important you’re feeling cozy and comfortable at night.
Summary
| Mattress | Best for |
| Helix Midnight | Editor’s Pick |
| WinkBed | Best Medium Firm Cooling Mattress |
| Nolah Evolution | Best Medium Firm Hybrid Mattress |
| Saatva | Best Medium Firm Mattress for Back Pain |
| Bear Original | Best Medium Firm Mattress for Back Sleepers |
| Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid | Best Medium Firm Value Mattress |
| Birch | Best Medium Firm Organic Mattress |
| Layla | Best Memory Foam Medium Firm Mattress |
| Nectar | Best Medium Firm Mattress for Side Sleepers |
| Dreamfoam Essential | Best Medium Firm Budget Mattress |
Best Medium-Firm Mattress FAQs
What is the best medium-firm mattress?
Ultimately, the best mattress for you is dependent on your sleeping position, body type, and individual preferences. If we had to choose, we’d go with our Editor’s Pick: the Helix Midnight. This medium-firm bed (7/10 on the firmness scale) is extremely well-rounded. It should suit hot sleepers, most average-weight sleepers, most lightweight sleepers, and some heavier back sleepers. It’s also one of the best orthopedic mattresses.
Is a medium-firm mattress good for side sleepers?
Generally, yes, especially if you’re a side sleeper looking for additional support or extra firmness. While medium-firm mattresses don’t place as much of an emphasis on pressure relief as some soft mattresses, they can offer more of an “on top of” feel. That way, you don’t get stuck in the material.
How firm is a medium-firm mattress?
The industry scale rates mattress firmness between 1 and 10, with 1 being the softest and 10 being the firmest. Medium-firm mattresses are considered to be at around 6.5/10 on the firmness scale.
Is a medium-firm mattress good for your back?
Medium-firm mattresses can be great options for back pain and spinal alignment. The pressure-relieving comfort allows any pain points to be gently contoured. This is blended with sturdy support, which keeps the hips lifted and the spine in proper alignment. While a mattress may not be able to correct all back problems, it can alleviate pain in many cases.