Here at Sleep Advisor, our Sleep Certified experts use a refined mattress and product testing process to give you unbiased product suggestions… Read our full product review process.
In This Article
For many people, a medium-firm bed occupies the “Goldilocks zone” for comfort: not too hard, not too soft. Here, I’ll cover the best medium-firm mattresses and the advantages of this firmness level.
If you’ve been mattress-shopping for a while, you’ve probably encountered multiple brands that brag about the medium-firm feel of their beds. But why is medium-firm such a desirable firmness level? And what exactly qualifies a mattress’s feel as medium-firm?
To answer the first question, a bed that’s neither too hard nor too soft has an ideal balance of comfort to support. A medium-firm mattress often represents the most harmonious mix of these elements. It’s not overly plush—so your spine stays lifted and aligned—and it’s not too rock-like, so you get a nice amount of cushion.
Furthermore, this middle-of-the-road firmness level appeals to the widest range of sleepers. It may even accommodate people who share a bed but have slightly different firmness preferences.
At Sleep Advisor, we rank a mattress’s firmness on a scale from 1 to 10, progressing from very soft to very firm. A medium-firm bed falls between 5 to 6.5 on this scale. We’ve tested more than 150 different mattresses and helped more than 2,000 people find their perfect match. Below, I’ve collected the best medium-firm mattresses we’ve reviewed so far.
Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Back Pain, Stomach Sleepers
Couples, Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers
Back Sleepers, Side Sleepers
Side Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Couples
Side Sleepers, Back Pain
Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers
Joint Pain, Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers
Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Seniors
How We Chose the Best Medium-Firm Mattresses
We test mattresses in person at our studio, scoring them across a variety of performance categories. When it comes to scoring beds, we rate everything out of five, then we average all those scores (weighting the ones we consider most important) to get an overall score for each bed, also out of five.
As one of the site’s lead product testers, I’ve lied on top of (and rolled around on, and napped on, and jumped on…) more mattresses than I can count. But because a person’s body type and preferred sleeping position can affect their experience of a bed, I don’t test these beds alone—I’m joined by other reviewers who offer a variety of perspectives.
When picking out the best medium-firm mattresses, we focused on beds that sat in the middle of our firmness scale and chose our favorites based on a few key properties.
As the lead product tester, I test mattresses every week!
What We Want to See in a Medium-Firm Mattress
When you’re shopping for a medium-firm mattress, keep the following features at the top of your mind:
Firmness Level Between 5 and 6.5
If 1 is softer than a cotton ball, and 10 is harder than a slab of stone, you want a mattress that’s between a 5 and a 6.5. This may seem to skew firm rather than plush, but keep in mind that we rarely recommend mattresses that feel softer than a 4 or so—these beds are too soft, and will cause you to sink so low that your skeleton isn’t properly supported.
Broad Appeal
A quality medium-firm mattress should feel good to a wide range of people, even those with different comfort preferences. We often suggest medium-firm beds to couples who are struggling to align their visions for an ideal sleep space. A healthy mattress firmness is like a healthy marriage: it’s all about adaptability and compromise.
Consistent, Durable Comfort
A medium-firm mattress hardly qualifies as medium-firm if it starts to sag soon after you buy it. You’ll want a bed that retains its initial firmness over years of use, so look for durable materials, positive customer reviews, and policies that ensure a long-lived product. Lengthy sleep trials and warranties are both good signs.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.1
Helix
Helix Midnight Mattress
Well-Balanced Hybrid
Affordably Priced
Isolates Motion
Hybrid
100 nights
Free shipping minus AK and HI
Cyber Monday Sale – Extended
Save 20% sitewide + 2 FREE pillows with any mattress ($150+ value) See Details
A cushioned medium-firm. On our firmness scale, it’s a 6 out of 10.
Size
Twin, twin XL, queen, king, California king, short queen, RV king
Side Sleepers
With pressure-relieving foams up top to cradle the hips and shoulders, this bed was designed for side sleepers.
Hot Sleepers
This bed barely got warmer after multiple minutes of our testers lying on top of it.
Those with Back Pain
A medium-firm feel with lots of support means that this mattress may help with back pain.
Pros of the Helix Midnight
It has a lovely balance of pressure relief to support, earning a 5 out of 5 from our testers in both categories
Surprisingly, it isolates motion so well that we gave it a perfect score in this category, too
We found that it stays quite cool over time
Cons of the Helix Midnight
Stomach sleepers, especially heavyweight ones, probably need more support than this bed can offer
People who spread out when they sleep may not appreciate the Midnight’s poor edge support, which pales in comparison to the Saatva Classic‘s
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Returns
Free returns
The Advisor Says: The Midnight has one of the most impressive score spreads of all the mattresses we’ve reviewed. The best word to describe it is “balanced”: it’s got pressure relief, support, and cooling power in spades, plus a versatile medium-firm feel that tends to satisfy lots of sleepers.
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
5
Pressure Relief
5
Support
5
Motion Isolation
3
Cooling
3.5
Bounce
2
Edge Support
3
Couples
Why the Helix Midnight Earned Best Medium-Firm Mattress Overall
The Helix Midnight is a medium-firm mattress designed with side sleepers in mind, so you may be surprised to see it at the top of our list. However, I’ve found that the Helix Midnight works for a swath of different sleepers, no thanks to that trusty medium-firmness.
How does that work? Well, the foam layers on top contour to the body, relieving pressure around sensitive areas. Plus, the individually wrapped coils provide support and bounce, so you can still feel comfortable in all sleep positions and switch between them with ease.
The Helix Midnight in our testing studio.
Testing Studio Soundbite
“This hybrid pulls together memory foam layers with pocketed coils, which is a winning combination with a 6/10 medium-firm feel. You got awesome pressure relief from the top three foam layers that contour to the body, along with excellent spine alignment support from those coils pushing you up below.”
We ranked the Helix Midnight at a 6 out of 10 on our firmness scale, what we call “true” medium-firm. The support is even throughout the surface of the bed, even with the nice upper cushion from the foams.
What’s the Helix Midnight Made Of?
The Helix Midnight is 11.5 inches tall. All foams used in its construction are CertiPUR-US® certified.
Inside the Helix Midnight
Layer 1 – Cover. Helix offers two covers, so you can choose between a standard breathable knitted one or upgrade to the cooling GlacioTex™ cover, depending on how hot you sleep.
Layer 2 – Memory Plus Foam. The first layer of foam promotes pressure relief.
Layer 3 – Helix Responsive Foam. This medium-feel foam conforms to your body for comfortable contouring.
Layer 4 – Helix Responsive Foam. The second layer of responsive foam helps to maintain support as it transitions into the coil layer below.
Layer 5 – Coil Unit. Wrapped coils respond individually to your movements to keep you lifted while preventing motion transfer.
Layer 6 – DuraDense Foam. A final layer of dense foam rounds out the mattress.
Customer Reviews of The Helix Midnight
The Helix Midnight rates 4.5 stars out of 5 on Helix’s website. The main negative is that reviewers tend to find it too soft for their liking and feel as though they’re sinking. But overall, users say they’re getting a great nights’ sleep and some pain relief.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
Medium-firm. We found this bed ranked at a 6 out of 10 on our firmness scale.
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Couples
With high scores in motion isolation and edge support, we think this bed should work well for restless couples who want to make full use of the bed’s surface.
Hot Sleepers
We observed some temperature reduction (albeit after an initial increase) during the Nectar Hybrid’s cooling tests, so it should work for hot sleepers.
Back Sleepers
Our testers enjoyed this bed the most when laying on their backs.
Pros of the Nectar Classic Hybrid
This hybrid balances both pressure relief and support for an overall well-rounded, medium-firm feel
Even though it has springs, the Nectar Classic Hybrid absorbs motion well due to the soft foams on top
This bed is a nice budget option if you’re looking for a quality hybrid, especially when you factor in sales and discounts
Cons of the Nectar Classic Hybrid
This bed surprisingly didn’t have much bounce, which can be a detriment to combination sleepers, who need ease of movement
During testing, we thought the bed was a bit too firm to feel fully comfortable for side sleepers
Shipping
Free shipping, except for Alaska and Hawaii ($99)
Trial
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
Full refund within trial period
The Advisor Says: This is the hybrid version of Nectar’s flagship mattress, and unexpectedly, it feels a bit softer than its all-foam counterpart! We recommend it for back sleepers, restless couples, and anyone looking for an affordable mattress with generous policies.
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
4.5
Pressure Relief
4
Support
5
Motion Isolation
4
Cooling
3.5
Bounce
4
Edge Support
4
Couples
4
Customer Service
3.5
Accessibility
Why the Nectar Classic Hybrid Earned Best Affordable Medium-Firm Mattress
Nectar prizes itself on offering high-quality mattresses at a low price with generous policies, so it’s no surprise we picked one of their beds for the “affordable” category. With recent upgrades, the Nectar Classic Hybrid still remains a fine option for those seeking a medium-firm bed that won’t break the bank. After discounts, the Classic Hybrid is under $1,000 for a queen.
Thanks to the mix of coils and foam in the bed’s hybrid construction, the Nectar hybrid has a soft-but-supportive feel that should work for most sleepers. We loved it most on our back, but we think some side and even stomach sleepers should be able to feel comfy on this bed’s cushioning surface.
Testing Studio Soundbite
“Nice mid-level firmness. The top is pretty soft, but then the coils kick in and keep you from going too far down.”
We rated the Nectar hybrid at a 6 out of 10 on our firmness scale, right smack-dab in the middle of our range. The balance of coils and foams contribute to this.
What’s the Nectar Hybrid Made Of?
The Nectar Hybrid is 12 inches thick with six total layers if you include both of its covers.
Inside the Nectar Hybrid
Layer 1 – Cooling Cover. This bed has a cooling cover woven with heat-wicking fabric. In addition, the cover is protected by an antimicrobial treatment to keep bacteria away.
Layer 2 – Memory Foam (1 inch). This foam is meant to cushion the body and adapt to your curves.
Layer 3 – Support Layer (2 inches). A layer of responsive foam promotes spinal alignment while acting as a buffer between the comfort layers and the coil layer.
Layer 4 – Innerspring Unit (8 inches). Individually wrapped coils keep you lifted. Thicker coils line the edges for a stronger perimeter.
Layer 5 – Base Layer (1 inch). A foundational foam layer for structural support.
Layer 6 – Lower Cover. A bottom cover keeps the mattress and everything within it in place.
Customer Reviews of The Nectar Classic Hybrid
On Nectar’s website, this mattress scored a 4.5 out of 5 stars, from over 2,000 reviews. The Nectar Hybrid mattress is favored by customers for its affordability and pressure relief. On the flip side, some customers complained about the off-gassing odors upon unboxing.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.1
DreamCloud
DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam
Luxury
Memory Foam
Foam
365 nights
Free shipping minus AK and HI
Cyber Weekend Extended
Up to 50% off mattresses, spend $1,000 and save $100 See Details
This mattress is made of memory foam and other poly foam layers.
Price
$1,480 – $2,861 (before any discounts)
Firmness
Medium. We gave it a 5.5 out of 10 on our scale, skewing toward the softer end of medium.
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Joint Pain
This bed is really great for folks with sensitive joints who need extra cradling and pressure relief.
Side Sleepers
This is one of the softest DreamCloud models, with the right amount of pressure relief to really cradle side sleepers’ hips and shoulders.
Luxury Shoppers
If you like a luxurious bed but are looking for something at a more reasonable price, the DreamCloud Premier’s foam option should provide a high-end sleep experience at a fraction of the cost.
Pros of the DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam
Pressure relief remains regardless of sleeping position, even though we tout it as best for side and back sleepers
We were surprised by this bed’s edge support, especially for an all-foam mattress
Couples should appreciate the motion-absorbing surface that cancels out their partner’s movements
Cons of the DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam
This may not be the best cooling bed, as we didn’t feel any effect from the gel in the foams
Unfortunately, folks over 230 pounds may have a hard time getting comfortable on this bed’s pillowy surface
Shipping
Free shipping in the contiguous United States
Trial
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
Free returns within trial period
The Advisor Says: The DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam is a luxurious all-foam upgrade to the brand’s flagship model. Shoppers looking for a soft-but-supportive sleep experience, A-plus motion isolation, sturdy edges, and generous policies at a great deal should be satisfied with this mattress. This is especially true if you’re a back or side sleeper.
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
5
Pressure Relief
5
Support
5
Motion Transfer
2
Cooling
2
Bounce
5
Edge Support
4
Couples
Why the DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam Earned Best Medium-Firm Memory Foam Mattress
Some folks love the sumptuous sink that memory foam offers—and good news, there are plenty of medium-firm all-foam beds. The DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam stands out, though. This all-foam edition of DreamCloud’s higher-end line is on the plusher side, though still medium firm, to address a variety of sleepers’ needs.
If you want pressure relief, this bed has it. If you want to feel “hugged” by your mattress, this bed has it. It’s an all-around great choice for memory foam fans.
Testing motion isolation on the DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam with a “partner.”
Testing Studio Soundbite
“It provides exceptional spine alignment, especially for my side and back sleepers. The extra cushion at the surface hugs to your body’s unique shape and keeps everything lifted. Pressure relief, perfect score, gold star, gold medal, you name it.”
Julia Forbes, Lead Product Tester
What Makes It a Medium-Firm Bed?
The cushioning foam construction puts the DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam at a 5.5 out of 10 on our firmness scale. This is on the softer side of medium-firm and should especially suit side and back sleepers looking for a more cradling feel.
What’s the DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam Made Of?
The DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam is made up of 7 total layers in its 13-inch construction.
Inside the DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam
Layer 1 – Cashmere Cushion Cover. A luxurious cashmere blend that is both comfortable and cooling.
Layer 2 – Quilted Gel Memory Foam. This foam layer allows the cover of the mattress to contour to the shape of your body, with added gel to keep cool.
Layer 3 – Quilted Support Foam. Another layer of more supportive foam bolsters the cover’s ability to cushion without sagging.
Layer 4 – Therapeutic Gel Memory Foam. Another thicker layer of gel memory foam provides pressure relief as you sink into the mattress.
Layer 5 – Dynamic Transition Layer. This layer acts as a buffer between the comfort layers and the strong support base below.
Layer 6 – Stability Base Layer. An 8-inch thick layer of standard foam creates the foundational support for the mattress.
Layer 7 – Lower Cover. Finally, a cover on the bottom half of the mattress keeps everything in place. It also has handles for easier transportation.
Customer Reviews of The DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam
The DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam scores a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars from customers who left more than 5,000 reviews on its website. For the most part, the customers loved its comforting and cradling feel, but some pointed out that it’s not as firm as they expected.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
This mattress contains latex foam and a coil unit.
Price
$1,399 – $2,399 (before any discounts)
Firmness
Medium. We rated this at 5.5 out of 10, so it’s on the softer side of medium.
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Side Sleepers
With a perfect pressure relief score, the EcoCloud is great for those who sleep on their side.
Eco Shoppers
As the name “EcoCloud” implies, this bed’s natural construction should appeal to eco-conscious mattress shoppers.
Combination Sleepers
The latex and coils make for a buoyant surface that’s easy to move around and reposition on.
Pros of the EcoCloud
The EcoCloud earned a perfect score for responsiveness, so you can trust it’s a bouncy bed
This bed has a balanced feel of both softness and support
On top of that, it’s still soft enough for lightweight sleepers
Cons of the EcoCloud
Because of how bouncy this bed is, it doesn’t exactly absorb motion, so it may not be one of the best beds for couples
We found the edges of this bed sagged when you laid or sat on them; if you need a strong perimeter, consider the WinkBed’s flagship model instead
Shipping
Free shipping, except for Alaska and Hawaii ($99)
Trial
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
Free returns within trial period
The Advisor Says: We think the EcoCloud’s balanced feel is sure to please a swath of environmentally conscious shoppers. Most notable is how its construction of latex and coils brings bounce with a capital “B.”
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
5
Pressure Relief
4
Support
2
Motion Isolation
3.5
Cooling
5
Bounce
3
Edge Support
3
Couples
5
Customer Service
4.5
Accessibility
Why the WinkBeds EcoCloud Earned Best Medium-Firm Cooling Mattress
The WinkBeds EcoCloud is a medium-firm hybrid bed that provides targeted support and weight distribution across multiple zones. If you’re a hot sleeper, though, you’ll probably be most interested in its cooling capabilities.
This mattress is naturally ventilated, thanks to its construction and materials. The top layers have heat-wicking properties, which help pull heat away from your body and keep the bed’s surface cool to the touch. The bed also features Talalay latex and pocketed coils, both of which promote cooling and airflow.
The EcoCloud set up in our studio.
Testing Studio Soundbite
“It’s designed to put firmer support around the lower back, and you stay nice and softly supported everywhere else. Think buoyant, and not in a waterbed overkill kind of way.”
Julia Forbes, Lead Product Tester
What Makes It a Medium-Firm Bed?
The EcoCloud is a 5.5 out of 10 on our firmness scale, so it’s a medium-firm bed with a nice amount of initial softness to it.
What’s the EcoCloud Made Of?
The EcoCloud stands 12.5 inches tall.
Inside the WinkBeds EcoCloud
Layer 1 – Cover. The cover is made from organic cotton and New Zealand Wool, a combination that should keep you cool thanks to these materials’ natural breathability..
Layer 2 – Talalay Latex (4 inches). Textured latex provides bounce and cushion alongside balanced support and pressure relief across your body.
Layer 3 – Innerspring System (8.5 inches). Recycled steel coils adapt to your weight and movements to ensure you’re lifted in all the right places. Firmer coils reinforce the perimeter for stronger edges.
Customer Reviews of The WinkBeds EcoCloud
At 4.8 out of 5 stars on WinkBed’s site, the EcoCloud has an overwhelmingly positive response. Customers appreciate the eco-friendly materials used in the WinkBed EcoCloud mattress but have noted that the price point may be higher than some competitors.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
The Advisor Says: The plush top gives this bed a soothing amount of sink, but those two coil units are there to keep your spine aligned and provide some real bounce. Our testers thought that people of all body types would feel almost weightless while back- or side-sleeping on this mattress, but didn’t recommend it for stomach sleepers.
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
4
Pressure Relief
5
Support
4
Motion Transfer
4
Cooling
5
Bounce
4
Edge Support
4
Couples
3.5
Customer Service
5
Accessibility
Why the Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite Earned Best Medium-Firm Mattress for Back Pain
The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe is a hybrid mattress available in three firmness levels. The Medium model is the golden middle ground between a soft and firm feel, and a good match for sleepers suffering from back pain—they benefit most from a balance of pressure relief on top, strong support on the bottom.
You should remain properly aligned on this bed while feeling relief in areas prone to pressure buildup. Repositioning should feel easy too, thanks to its springy surface. All in all, this medium-firm bed is primed to help with back pain across a variety of sleeping positions.
Sleeping on my back on the Sedona Elite.
Testing Studio Soundbite
“We noticed the Sedona Elite provided our testers with perfect spine alignment support and responsiveness. The bed also does an excellent job with pressure relief, temperature regulation, motion isolation and edge support.”
Julia Forbes, Lead Product Tester
What Makes It a Medium-Firm Bed?
At 5.5 out of 6 on our firmness scale, the Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite is on the softer side of the medium-firm spectrum. It’s what lends the bed its stellar pressure-relieving ability, but it doesn’t skimp on the support to your back.
What’s the Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite Made Of?
The Sedona Elite is 14 inches tall with six layers in total.
Inside the Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite
Layer 6 – Foam Base (1 inch). – A dense foam foundation for the rest of the mattress.
Layer 1 – Cooling Cover. GlacioTex+ fibers ensure the surface of the bed is cool to the touch.
Layer 2 – Copper Memory Foam (1.5 inches). The first comfort layer is infused with copper for added cooling and antibacterial properties.
Layer 3 – Micro-Wrapped Coils (2.5 inches). A layer of miniature coils targets pressure relief on a more precise scale, and allows air to flow through the mattress.
Layer 4 – Transition Foam (1.5 inches). A dense foam layer that bolsters the support of the main coil layer.
Layer 5 – Ascension® Coils (8 inches). This innerspring unit features over 1,000 encased coils that should spring back with ease when you move, all while keeping motion relegated to one spot.
Customer Reviews of The Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite
On Brooklyn Bedding’s website, the Sedona Elite ranks 4.8 out of 5 stars, featuring more than 300 reviews. One potential drawback of the Brooklyn Bedding Sedona mattress is its higher price point, but customers noted that it offers exceptional comfort and support, particularly for those seeking a luxury sleep experience.
Nolah Signature – Best Medium-Firm Mattress for Side Sleepers
Melts Away Pressure
Sleep Advisor Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.0
Nolah
Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress
Pressure Relief
Memory Foam
Cooling Foam
Foam
120 nights
Free shipping minus AK and HI
Cyber Monday Sale
35% off sitewide + 2 free pillows + $150 off BedJet with mattress purchase See Details
The Advisor Says: We recommend the Nolah Signature for sleepers looking for a foam bed that has a soft but accommodating firmness. It also runs cooler than most foam beds, and has enough pressure relief to cradle sensitive joints.
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
5
Pressure Relief
5
Support
3.5
Motion Transfer
3
Cooling
2.5
Bounce
4.5
Edge Support
3
Couples
3.5
Customer Service
3.5
Accessibility
Why the Nolah Signature Earned Best Medium-Firm Mattress for Side Sleepers
While pressure build-up can occur during sleep for many reasons, resting on an uncomfortable mattress is a common one. Thankfully, the Nolah Signature is made to tackle pressure build-up with multiple layers of specialized foams.
A mix of breathable AirFoam™, responsive foam, and dense support foam makes for a soft but supportive medium-firm profile that should suit side sleepers and those with sensitive joints.
A full view of the Nolah Signature.
Testing Studio Soundbite
“Apart from the approachable firmness level around a five out of ten. Air foam is designed to champion pressure relief above all else. The foam packs in microscopic air bubbles that work to give you a lightweight feel, especially around pressure points that sink into the bed. There are four layers of foam wrapped in an organic cotton cover, with the top three prioritizing airflow, pressure relief and responsiveness.”
Julia Forbes, Lead Product Tester
What Makes It a Medium-Firm Bed?
The Nolah Signature falls at a 6 out of 10 on our firmness scale, so it’s right in that medium-firm sweet spot. That said, its all-foam construction gives it a softer feel than many of the other medium-firm mattresses on this list.
What’s the Nolah Signature Made Of?
The Nolah Signature is 12 inches tall and has five layers.
Inside the Nolah Signature
Layer 1 – Organic Cotton Cover. A naturally cooling and soft sleep surface.
Layer 2 – Plush AirFoam™ (2.5 inches). Nolah’s proprietary foam doesn’t trap as much heat as traditional foams, and this plush layer gives the bed its cushioning surface.
Layer 3 – Active Response Foam (1.5 inches). A breathable layer of responsive foam that bounces back according to your movements.
Layer 4 – Firm AirFoam™ (1 inch). A firmer layer of AirFoam™ aids in supporting the softer comfort layers.
Layer 5 – High-Density Foam Foundation (7 inches). A thick, sturdy base that extends the bed’s longevity.
Customer Reviews of The Nolah Signature
The Nolah Signature gets a 4.8 out of 5 stars on Nolah’s website. One potential drawback of the Nolah Signature mattress is its limited firmness options, but it excels in providing exceptional pressure relief and a cooling sleep experience.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.2
Saatva
Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid
Luxury
Well-Balanced Hybrid
Great for Couples
Hybrid
365 nights
Free shipping and white glove delivery
Limited Time Offer
Take $300 off your order of $1,000 or more See Details
Medium-firm. This bed came in at a 6.5 out of 10 on our firmness scale.
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, split king, California king
Couples
This bed has plenty of bounce, near-perfect edge support, and decent motion isolation, all of which should appeal to couples.
Combination Sleepers
Repositioning felt easy on the Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid’s responsive surface.
Back Sleepers
The bed’s medium-firm feel and even-keeled support is a great match for those who sleep on their back.
Pros of the Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid
Saatva’s mattresses all come with free white glove delivery, meaning a team of workers will deliver and set up your new mattress—and take away your old one, if need be
For a bed with memory foam inside it, this hybrid was surprisingly cool, thanks to the cover, gel infusions, and coils
High performance scores in pressure relief and support should mean a balanced feel on the bed’s surface
Though it’s made with memory foam, this bed doesn’t have the super-deep hug of many all-foam mattresses
Shipping
Free shipping and white glove delivery in the US
Trial
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
Flat return rate ($99)
The Advisor Says: Saatva’s Memory Foam Hybrid combines the best of both words: soft, pressure-relieving foam and sturdy, supportive coils into one mattress. We recommend this hybrid for luxury shoppers wanting a medium-firm bed with plenty of bounce. Bonus points if you sleep on your back or with a partner.
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
4
Pressure Relief
5
Support
3
Motion Isolation
4
Cooling
5
Bounce
4
Edge Support
5
Couples
Why the Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid Earned Best Medium-Firm King Mattress
If you’re looking for a medium-firm mattress to complement your large bedroom or live up to your royal taste, I’d recommend buying a king-size Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid. This mattress features plush foams and sturdy coils, the perfect match for the balanced comfort and support.
The springy, lifted surface is best suited to back sleepers, but some side sleepers should appreciate the pressure relief this bed can offer.
The Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid set up in our studio.
The Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid also boasts an endorsement from the American Chiropractic Association and a seal of approval from the Congress of Chiropractic State Association, so it’s safe to say that this bed has got your back.
Testing Studio Soundbite
“The Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid has all of the performance aspects of a memory foam mattress, but the coils take up the support level up a few notches. The medium firmness level helps maintain enough softness for side and back sleepers to get some deep contouring and sink for pressure points, but the coils keep the spine aligned and body lifted.”
Julia Forbes, Lead Product Tester
What Makes It a Medium-Firm Bed?
Saatva markets this bed as a medium-firm option, and we agree! We gave the Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid a 6.5 out of 10 on our firmness scale, putting it right smack dab in the middle of medium-firm.
What’s the Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid Made Of?
The Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid is about 11.5 inches tall and has six total layers.
Inside the Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid
Cover. The breathable surface of the mattress is quilted specially to support the lower back, and is treated with an antimicrobial mask to prevent the growth of unwanted bacteria and mold.
Lumbar Crown. A half-inch tall crest of memory foam bolsters lumbar support, while the gel infused within it draws away excess heat.
Contouring Foam. This layer of AirCradle™ foam has pockets to keep air flowing as it relieves pressure.
Coils. Eight inches of individually wrapped coils push back to keep you lifted while responding to your movements.
Foam Rails. Dense foam rails along the perimeter of the mattress reinforce the edges.
Base. A dense foam support core acts as the bed’s foundation.
Customer Reviews of The Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid
The Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid has around 160 reviews on Saatva’s website with a total score of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Customers appreciate the Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid for its balanced mix of support and comfort, but some find its motion transfer noticeable, which can be a concern for couples.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.2
Bear
Bear Star Hybrid Mattress
Great for Couples
Well-Balanced Hybrid
Hybrid
120 nights
Free shipping minus AK and HI
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Medium-firm. We rated this bed at a 6.5 out of 10 on our firmness scale.
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Couples
The Bear Star Hybrid excels in motion isolation, cooling, and bounce, all of which should be beneficial to sleepers who share the bed.
Luxury Shoppers
This mattress has a luxurious feel (and price to match) that should appeal to folks looking for a higher-end mattress.
Hot Sleepers
During testing, we found that temperature barely increased on the surface of the mattress, making for a cool comfortable surface.
Pros of the Bear Star Hybrid
This bed earned perfect scores in pressure relief and support, ultimately yielding a balanced feel
The Bear Star Hybrid is a star when it comes to motion isolation, which is impressive for a hybrid
The thick foam layers don’t impede the bed’s responsiveness; it has a lot of bounce
Cons of the Bear Star Hybrid
This bed starts out at over $1,000 for a twin, so we don’t consider it a budget mattress
Despite the perfect support score, we think that some heavyweight sleepers may have trouble getting lift on the Bear Star Hybrid
Shipping
Free shipping in the contiguous United States (fees apply for Alaska and Hawaii)
Trial
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
Free returns within trial period
The Advisor Says: The Bear Star Hybrid touts an enviable medium-firm feel that should appeal to a swath of mattress shoppers, including couples with different preferences looking to “compromise.” We gave this hybrid perfect scores in pressure relief, support, and motion transfer.
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
4
Pressure Relief
5
Support
4
Motion Isolation
4
Cooling
3
Bounce
3
Edge Support
4
Couples
3.5
Customer Service
3
Accessibility
Why the Bear Star Hybrid Earned Best Medium-Firm Hybrid Mattress
Most medium-firm mattresses are hybrids because the combination of coils and foam tends to yield a medium feel. So, how do you choose a hybrid bed that stands out? Well, let me introduce you to the Bear Star Hybrid.
This bed is meant to match with athletes or active sleepers looking to wind down after a day of intense activity. Thus, it has plenty of added cooling features like its HydroCool Cover and gel foam. (For an added fee, you can get a specialized Celliant® cover, a recovery textile that reportedly converts excess heat into healing infrared energy.) Combine this with a supportive innerspring unit and stellar edge support, and it’s easy to see why this hybrid goes the extra mile.
Testing the Bear Star Hybrid’s edge support.
Testing Studio Soundbite
“Its firm yet cozy feel should bridge the gap between people with somewhat different comfort preferences, and its cooling elements can help sleeping partners from overheating. This bed is also fiberglass free and eco conscious… And in a world of fiberglass, aren’t we glad this one doesn’t have it?”
Julia Forbes, Lead Product Tester
What Makes It a Medium-Firm Bed?
We Bear Star Hybrid at a solid 6 out of 10 on our firmness scale. Some of our testers found it to be on the firmer side of medium-firm, so we think this bed is best for back sleepers who need that balance of support and cushioning.
What’s the Bear Star Hybrid Made Of?
The Bear Star Hybrid is 13 inches tall and has five layers.
Inside the Bear Star Hybrid
Layer 1 – Cover. The cover has both HydroCool® technology and Celliant® fibers built-in. As such, it should stay relatively cool and may even help your body to recuperate after a day of activity.
Layer 2 – Serene Gel Foam. This gel-infused foam should keep unwanted heat out while also cradling pressure points.
Layer 3 – Responsive Comfort Foam. A springy foam that both relieves pressure and readily changes its shape when you move around.
Layer 4 – Innersprings. Individually wrapped coils form the main support component of the bed, with stronger springs on the sides for sturdy edges.
Layer 5 – High-Density Support Foam. A base layer that gives the springs a place to rest and ups the entire bed’s longevity.
Customer Reviews of The Bear Star Hybrid
With a little over 60 reviews, the Star Hybrid scores approximately 4.8 out of 5 stars on Bear’s site. A potential downside is that some users may find it too firm, but the rest praised it for its strong support and cooling properties, promoting a comfortable sleep environment.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.2
Birch
Birch Natural Mattress
Latex
Luxury
Medium-Firm
Latex Hybrid
100 nights
Free shipping
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Save 20% sitewide + 2 FREE pillows with any mattress ($150+ value) See Details
This mattress contains latex foam, additional comfort layers, and a coil unit.
Price
$1,373 – $2,248 (before any discounts)
Firmness
Medium-firm. We rated this mattress as a 6 out of 10, which is a middle-of-the-road firmness.
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Hot Sleepers
Latex and wool regulate the temperature of this mattress to keep it from overheating at the surface.
Eco Shoppers
Birch is one of the top names in the organic mattress game, so eco-conscious shoppers should be more than satisfied with their claims and certifications.
Stomach Sleepers
This mattress is on the firmer side of medium-firm, so it should support those who sleep on their stomach.
Pros of the Birch Natural
The combination of wool and latex creates a lifted feel that should have you sleeping “on top” of your mattress rather than “in” it
Laying near or sitting on the edges of the bed, we felt secure
This bed has plenty of bounce that should satisfy combination sleepers and sexually active folks
Cons of the Birch Natural
The Birch Natural may be too firm for some folks, who may want to consider a softer mattress
Latex isn’t the best for absorbing motion, so you may want to consider a bed that scored better for couples or a memory foam mattress
Shipping
Free shipping in the contiguous United States ($250 for Alaska, Hawaii, and Canada)
Trial
100 nights
Warranty
25-year warranty
Returns
Flat return fee ($99)
The Advisor Says: Dare we say the Birch Natural is the bed that comes to mind when we think latex? As the name implies, this bed combines natural components with quality construction, yielding a supportive, luxurious, and eco-friendly mattress.
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
4
Pressure Relief
5
Support
3.5
Motion Isolation
4.5
Cooling
5
Bounce
4
Edge Support
4
Couples
5
Customer Service
4
Accessibility
Why the Birch Natural Earned Best Queen Medium-Firm Mattress
The Birch Natural should delight eco-conscious shoppers looking for a queen-size medium-firm mattress, thanks to its impressive list of materials, which features organic wool, organic cotton, and natural latex.
The bed’s middle-ground feel should deliver an optimal balance of comfort and support. While the latex helps to alleviate pressure, the individually wrapped coils deliver targeted support to different areas of the body for a healthy spinal alignment.
How the Birch looks set up in our studio.
Testing Studio Soundbite
“After giving the Birch natural a whirl, we landed on a 6 out of 10 medium firmness level. The top layer is super squishy like Jello-O, but you get some nice sink before feeling those coils lifting you up below—all to say, really balanced comfort and support.”
Julia Forbes, Lead Product Tester
What Makes It a Medium-Firm Bed?
We rated the Birch Natural at 6.5 out of 10. This firmness plus bouncy latex and organic wool should make for a uniquely versatile feel.
What’s the Birch Natural Made Of?
The Birch Natural has a height of 11 inches with six layers in total.
Inside the Birch Natural
Layer 1 – Organic Cotton Cover. GOTS-certified cotton welcomes you to the bed with a tufted cover.
Layer 2 – Fire Retardant Organic Wool. A wool layer replaces the synthetic fire barriers found in most mattresses.
Layer 3 – Organic Wool. A second sheet of wool helps to regulate temperature and adds a comfort layer to the bed.
Layer 4 – Talalay Latex. Sustainably harvested and certified by eco-INSTITUT to guarantee low emissions, this latex layer both relieves pressure and bounces back into shape quickly.
Layer 5 – Coils. Individually wrapped springs support your body, with extra-strong coils on the long edges.
Layer 6 – Base Wool Layer. A final wool layer acts as a fire-resistant base.
Customer Reviews of The Birch Natural
According to over 4,000 reviews on Birch’s website, the Birch Natural scores a 4.6 out of 5 stars. While some users consider the Birch Natural mattress to be on the pricier side, it gains customer appreciation for its organic materials and sustainable, eco-friendly construction.
Note 1-2 are considered extra-soft beds, which are rare and therefore not included on our scale. Just like it’s also rare to see a 10/10 firmness mattress, which would be like sleeping on the floor. For more information, check out our firmness scale.
A medium-firm mattress is considered a bed that’s rated between a 5 and 6.5 on a firmness scale. (At Sleep Advisor, we consider a 7 out of 10 to mark the beginning of true “firm” beds.) As such, these beds can provide both softness and support and are suitable for the majority of sleepers.
While the firmness of these beds is similar, the construction among them varies. Medium-firm beds can include hybrids, innerspring mattresses, memory foam beds, and latex models.
Medium-firm mattresses are the most common mattress option, but they’re not for everyone. For this reason, it’s always best to consider your body type and preferred sleep position to determine whether a medium feel is right for you.
Pros of Medium-Firm Mattresses
There are many reasons to choose a medium-firm mattress if you’re trying to weigh your options:
Fit a wide range of sleepers.
Good compromise option for couples with different sleeping preferences.
A very common mattress type with plenty of options.
Can provide either cradling or lift depending on mattress construction.
Cons of Medium-Firm Mattresses
However, it’s important to consider your needs, since medium-firm beds might not work for certain sleeper types:
Can be too soft for some sleepers—like heavyweight or stomach sleepers.
Can be too firm for some sleepers—like lightweight or side sleepers..
What to Look For When Buying a Medium-Firm Mattress
Although people often focus on the firmness of a mattress as its most important feature, other factors will contribute a lot to its overall comfort and quality.
Materials
A memory foam bed won’t feel the same as an innerspring bed, even if they’re both medium-firm. In addition, materials can impact how warm or cool the bed’s surface is.
Therefore, you should carefully inspect the construction of each bed you’re considering, especially if you’re looking for an eco-friendly or hypoallergenic bed.
In conjunction with materials and firmness, how long a mattress lasts should factor into your decision. At Sleep Advisor, we pride ourselves on recommending the best of the best, so this means every mattress should be of a high-quality. However, if you’re on the search yourself, be on the lookout for features that mean longevity. These might be a high-coil count in hybrid mattresses, a strong, thick support core in memory foam beds, or strong edge support all around the edges.
All reputable brands will include a warranty with their product. However, warranties vary, so you’ll come across different deals. Some companies offer a 1-year long warranty, while others go as far as providing a lifetime warranty.
Although most companies cover the same things, the length of a warranty can make a difference. The longest-lasting deals often indicate how confident a brand is in its product. You’ll want a medium-firm mattress that remains medium-firm for the majority of the time you own it, so a reassuring warranty is a green flag.
Price
Medium-firm mattresses are available at different prices, but the firmness of a bed rarely affects its overall cost. Instead, the price usually depends on the size, materials, unique features, height, and brand.
Although you should have a pre-set budget, try not to let the price be the only deciding factor when buying a medium-firm mattress.
Sleep Trial
Sometimes it’s hard to decide if a mattress is a good fit for you without trying it out for several nights. A sleep trial allows you to use the mattress without too big of a commitment. If you decide you don’t like it, the company will take it back before the sleep trial ends and will refund your money.
These trials can last anywhere between 30 and 365 nights. The longer the trial, the more time you have to decide whether that medium-firm mattress is an ideal match for your sleep habits.
Pressure Relief
We use a pressure map to see how much pressure builds up when sleeping on our back and side.
Pressure build-up is a common issue for most sleepers, although folks who sleep on their side usually struggle the most. The best way to achieve relief is to choose a bed with contouring and cushioning layers that allow a gentle hug. This way, sensitive points like the shoulders, hips, and knees are more “in” the bed than “on” it.
Memory foam and latex beds are excellent at pressure relief, but so are hybrids with thick foam and latex comfort layers.
Motion isolation refers to how well the bed prevents motion from transferring across its surface. This feature is helpful for anyone who shares a bed with a partner, kids, or pets.
Memory foam and hybrid mattresses are usually better at motion isolation than latex and innerspring beds. Memory foam is excellent at absorbing motion, while the use of pocketed coils and comfort foams in hybrids helps reduce motion transfer.
Seismograph results for the Birch Natural‘s motion test.
Edge Support
Testing the edge support of the Helix Midnight mattress.
Edge support is important for couples and single individuals who like to spread across their mattresses. Without edge support, you’ll feel like you’re rolling off the mattress if you sit or sleep near the edge.
Hybrid mattresses tend to have the best edge support, thanks to the coils that often go from one side of the bed to the other. Some even have a reinforced perimeter with thicker coils that prevent the edges from collapsing.
Cooling
If you or your partner sleep hot, then cooling features are going to be important. Memory foam beds are known to overheat, but manufacturers now use gel and copper infusions to cool the material and make these more suitable for hot sleepers.
Latex is even more cooling, as it’s naturally more breathable. Hybrids and innerspring models are perhaps best for hot sleepers because the coil units provide sufficient airflow to keep the other layers cool. Many cooling beds also have unique covers that remain cool to the touch.
I use a heat gun to test how fast a mattress cools down in five-minute intervals.
Types of Medium-Firm Mattresses
There are several types of medium-firm mattresses for you to choose from, each with their unique set of pros and cons.
Hybrid Mattresses
Hybrid mattresses are highly popular among people looking for support, bounce, and breathability. These offer a blend of contouring foam and steel coils. The foam typically comprises the top comfort layers, whereas the coils are towards the bottom.
Medium-firm hybrid mattresses have a sturdy coil unit and multiple foam layers working together to foster both pressure relief and support. Hybrids are also breezy and less likely to overheat, thanks to the coil unit that fosters airflow.
Memory Foam Mattresses
Foam mattresses have a few layers made from memory foam or poly-foam, though some models may include both. These beds have a high-density foam core that supports the upper layers and ensures durability.
The top layers are typically softer to contour to the body for pressure relief. Medium-firm memory foam mattresses can be better at pressure relief than certain hybrids and innerspring models, but they may be too hot unless they feature cooling technologies and materials. Heavy people may also want a bed with more pushback from the support layer.
Latex Mattresses
Latex mattresses are a good choice for eco-conscious shoppers. Latex is a responsive material harvested from the sap of rubber trees. This unique material is known for its moderate contouring properties, so a medium-firm latex bed would be good for back and stomach sleepers.
In addition, these beds should provide much-needed support for the hips, preventing them from sinking into the mattress. Latex beds are quite durable, so while they may cost more up front, they should last you longer than other types.
Innerspring Mattresses
Innerspring beds are similar to hybrids in that they have spring coils. However, innerspring models don’t have thicker comfort layers at the top like hybrids do. Instead, they have a thinner foam layer on top of the coil unit.
In some innerspring beds, the coils are individually wrapped, while others have interconnected coil systems. This type of mattress may have poor motion isolation and less cushion, but they’re airy and suitable for hot sleepers. They’re also a great budget-friendly option compared to hybrid or latex models.
Who Should Sleep on a Medium-Firm Mattress?
Medium-firm mattresses are versatile and should suit most sleepers. However, certain people may need a softer or firmer bed depending on their body type, preferred sleeping position, or medical conditions. Below are some of the demographics that stand to benefit the most from a medium-firm bed.
Back Sleepers
Medium-firm mattresses make excellent beds for back sleepers as they provide sufficient support to keep the spine aligned. Back sleepers weighing between 130 and 230 pounds should find these beds particularly comfortable.
Sleepers With Back Pain
Those who struggle with back pain should focus on finding a bed that supports the spine, ensuring it’s always in proper alignment. A medium-firm mattress can be a good bed for back pain by keeping the hips from collapsing into the bed (as this could throw the spine out of alignment).
It should also provide the right amount of upper softness to balance out its support features, giving sore backs some pressure relief.
Some Stomach Sleepers
As a stomach sleeper myself, I test every mattress in this sleeping position to get an understanding of how supportive it is for folks like me. The best beds for stomach sleepers need to be supportive enough to keep our hips elevated. Softer mattresses allow the hips to sink too much, which causes the lower back to hyperextend, eventually leading to back pain.
A medium-firm bed is a golden middle between too firm and soft, supporting the hips while cushioning the rest of your body. (However, some heavier stomach sleepers may feel better supported with firm beds, since their weight will cause more compression into the layers.)
Some Plus-Size Sleepers
The best mattresses for heavier folks are usually on the firmer side, due to the support they provide. Medium-firm beds can typically support sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds.
One thing to keep in mind is that a heavier sleeper may find such mattresses softer than sleepers who weigh less than 130 pounds. Heavier side sleepers may like a medium-firm mattress, but back and stomach sleepers weighing over 230 pounds should opt for a firmer one.
Medium-Firm Mattress FAQs
How do I know if a medium-firm mattress is right for me?
You should first consider your sleep position and body type. Medium-firm beds are typically best for back sleepers, although some side and stomach sleepers may also like them depending on their body weight. Luckily, most brands offer a sleep trial for customers to see if the mattress is right for them.
Is a medium-firm mattress good for your back?
A medium-firm mattress should be good for your back, especially if back sleeping is your preferred position. These beds provide sufficient support and gentle contouring to fill the gap between your lower back and the mattress. Some models are even specifically made for reducing back pain.
What is the difference between firm and medium firm mattresses?
A medium-firm bed will have a noticeable balance of softness and support, and occupies the zone between a 5 and 7 on our firmness scale.
Firm beds are noticeably more rigid and have firmness ratings above a 7 on our firmness scale. They often have minimal contouring but excellent support, particularly for heavier bodies.
Is a medium-firm mattress good for side sleepers?
Whether a medium-firm mattress is good for side sleepers depends on the person. Some side sleepers love soft beds that let them sink into the first layer. Others prefer to sleep “on” the bed instead of “in” it, but still like a bit of contouring to prevent pressure build-up.
Lightweight and heavier side sleepers won’t get the same feel from the same firmness level. This means your body weight is crucial in deciding if a medium-firm mattress is good for side sleeping.
Julia is the Lead Reviewer at Sleep Advisor, specializing in testing out mattresses and sleep accessories – she’s in the right line of work, because she loves to sleep.
