These Editor-Approved Mattresses are Under $1,000 for a Queen (Yes, Really!)

We’ve tested and rated every mattress at Casper (really!), and there’s a reason the brand’s original mattress has stood the test of time. The One Foam Mattress is the bed that started it all for Casper, and it still includes three layers of cushioned, breathable foam. And, while it’s an all-foam mattress, it’s rated for a medium-firm support. AT Senior Lifestyle Editor Lizzy Francis says, “As someone who doesn’t like all-foam mattresses, I was surprised at just how supported I felt while lying down — my spine maintained its natural curve while my joints felt cushioned.”

The basic version of this mattress is Casper’s most affordable bed, but you can also add a layer of cushion to make it “The Cloud One Mattress” for an additional $200. Luckily, Casper’s 100-night sleep trial means you’ll have time to decide if it is indeed The One.

This bed from SweetNight made it on our 2026 Best Mattresses list, as our “Best Budget” pick. I mean, look at that price point! What’s great about the SweetNight CoolNest is there are a lot of customization options that still keep the cost under $1,000 for a queen mattress. It’s available in three thickness options (12”, 14”, 16”) and three tiers of construction (basic, pro, and ultra), which increase in complexity and cooling technology. 

Regardless of which model you choose, hot sleepers will like the brand’s ventilated foam and silky, cool-touch cover. “The real kicker for me about this full, lush mattress is how cool it keeps me,” says Senior Lifestyle Editor Quinn Fish, who sleeps on this mattress every night. Also, this is another bed that comes with a 100-night sleep trial.

It can be tough to find a two-sided mattress in a hybrid design, but that’s exactly what the DLX Essential Mattress is. This bed is an Oreo cookie of sorts: the construction includes breathable, supportive springs in the center of the bed, encased in mirroring layers of adaptive foam. Every so often, the brand recommends rotating or flipping the mattress to ensure even wear over time. In other words, your dollar is going even further with this pick. 

The DLX Essential is a great mattress for strict back sleepers or larger side sleepers who like a firmer bed, as the brand ranks it at a 7-8 out of 10 on a firmness scale. You have 120 nights to decide whether or not it’s the right fit for you, thanks to the brand’s risk-free trial. 

Molecule has rebranded their baseline mattress since former AT Editor Britt Franklin reviewed it, but the makeup is mainly the same, with layers of adaptive, breathable foam and a cool-to-the-touch cover. In terms of comfort, Britt says, “[It’s] on the firmer side but it’s wonderfully cushioned, so you get an optimal combination of plushness and support all at the same time.” 

The Molecule Core 10” Mattress is a medium-firm bed, so it’s great for back sleepers and side sleepers who don’t want a super plush bed. If you like a little more support, it’s also available in a hybrid design, but the hybrid knocks this pick over the $1,000 mark by $99. Just something to consider! You’ll also have up to 100 nights to snooze on this bed to determine whether it’s for you.

Lovingly dubbed “The Brick” by the brand, Allswell’s extra firm hybrid mattress is ideal for back and stomach sleepers who want maximum support. This extremely budget-friendly option uses a combination of sturdy coils and dense foam to provide a super firm-yet-inviting surface. 

“But despite this level of firmness, The Brick isn’t uncomfortable by a long shot. Unlike many other mattresses I have tried, The Brick holds my body instead of collapsing against its weight, and it makes my lower back, shoulders, and neck feel supported,” writes our tester. Note: Walmart gives you 90 days to try this mattress, which is a little less time than other brands. 

If organic, natural materials are important to you in a mattress, a latex bed is your move. And, while these mattresses tend to be on the pricier side, Awara makes a reasonably priced latex hybrid that fits the bill. The Classic Hybrid Original Mattress from Awara is a 10-inch mattress that includes two inches of responsive, certified-organic latex for supportive cushioning, as well as wrapped coils for added durability and support. 

While the Classic Hybrid comes in at $899, AT Editor Jasmine Grant tested the next level up (which does breach the $1,000 mark) and says, “I was blown away by its silky organic cotton construction and cozy feel. When I say this mattress is the real deal for side and back sleepers, I mean it!” Best of all, Awara offers a whopping 365-night sleep trial, the most generous on this list!

The Cocoon by Sealy Chill Mattress is another bed we’ve covered, and it gets high praise for its cushy, medium support and cool, breathable cover. “It’s extremely comfortable, doesn’t move or bounce when your partner gets out of bed/moves around, and is very light/easy to move,” says AT Staffer Marisa.

This is another bed that starts at a lower price, with the option to upgrade to a hybrid design. But if you’re someone who likes a medium mattress (lookin’ at you, side sleepers!), you might be perfectly happy with the all-foam model, which still includes plenty of edge support and breathability. Plus, you’ll have 100 nights to try it for yourself at home, risk-free.