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Best California King Mattress
Sleep Foundation
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The Sleep Foundation product testing team uses an industry-leading evaluation process paired with real world consumer feedback to come up with objective recommendations so that you can feel confident in your product decisions.
The California king is one of the six standard mattress sizes. Most models measure 72 inches wide by 84 inches long. These dimensions make it the longest mattress size. While many think of the California king as the largest size option, standard kings – which measure 76 inches wide by 80 inches long – technically offer more surface area. A California king is ideal for couples who want a spacious sleep surface, including those who share their bed with children or pets. King and California king models usually share the same price-point.
A single sleeper may enjoy the roominess of a California king, but we primarily focused on criteria that matter most to couples when choosing our top picks for this list. These factors include durability, edge support, motion isolation, temperature control, and responsiveness for sex. Value is another key consideration, since California king sizes are one of the most expensive options for any given model.
The WinkBed
The WinkBed is our top California king mattress of 2024. This luxury hybrid offers a comfortable combination of adaptive comfort layers and zoned coil support, and you can choose from four firmness levels based on your body type, primary sleep position, and personal preferences.
The Best California King Mattresses
- Best Overall – WinkBed
- Most Comfortable – Helix Midnight Luxe
- Best Value – Silk & Snow Mattress
- Best Luxury – Saatva Classic
- Best for Side Sleepers – Nolah Evolution 15
- Best for Couples – Leesa Sapira Hybrid
- Best for Back Pain – Bear Elite Hybrid
- Best Cooling – Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe
- Best for Heavy Sleepers – Titan Plus Luxe
- Best Organic – Birch Mattress
If you’re in the market for a California king, keep reading to see a detailed profile of each top pick that highlights its strengths and standout attributes. You can learn even more about our best California king mattress selections by clicking the links to our onsite reviews. Scroll down further to find our guide for first-time California king buyers. We’ll discuss pros and cons of this size, how California kings compare to other sizes, and who should consider purchasing one.
In-Depth Reviews
“If you’re in the market for a California king, you won’t find many mattresses more versatile or well-built than the WinkBed. You can choose from four firmness levels, all of which pair adaptive comfort layers with zoned coils to create a very balanced feel. Our field testers who sleep on this mattress point to its consistent pressure relief and excellent overall support.” – Logan Foley, Managing Editor
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Pros
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Hybrid design cushions the body without sacrificing support
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Zoned coils push back against the weight in your midsection
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Four firmness options
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Cons
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Foam layers may emit some strong off-gassing odor at first
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Co-sleepers likely to feel each other’s movements
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Mattress Type
Innerspring
Firmness Options
Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7), Firm (8)
Trial Period
120 nights (30 night requirement)
Customer Reviews
Randall D.
“After the 3rd day, I knew I made the right decision. This is my second WinkBed that I have purchased. The first one I put on the guest bed and every guest — and I have a lot of overnight guest — absolutely loved it, and some even went home and bought one.”
Micah T.
“Overall comfortable but too firm for us. We swapped for the softer WinkBed and are sleeping great now!”
Kimberly K.
“My back pain is gone, however we had to purchase an additional topper because the “luxury” wasn’t as soft as we’d hoped. It caused pain in my hips and shoulders due to being a side sleeper.”
The WinkBed is a versatile hybrid mattress available in four firmness levels. The balanced construction and multiple firmness options make the mattress a great choice for a wide variety of sleepers – especially those seeking a combination of surface-level cushioning and strong overall support.
What It’s Made of
The four firmness levels of the WinkBed are medium soft (4), medium firm (6), firm (7), and firm (8). The mattress features a Euro-top padded with adaptive foam, which is infused with cooling gel intended to disperse body heat. High-density polyfoam beneath the top layer provides additional contouring and support. The base layer contains pocketed coils arranged in a zoned layout, ensuring extra reinforcement for the midsection and minimal sinkage along the perimeter. The entire mattress is encased in a Tencel cover.
Most WinkBed models share the same basic design, but they vary slightly to produce different firmness levels. Most notably, the medium soft model has an extra polyfoam layer to confer softness. The firmest model, known as the WinkBed Plus, is composed of polyfoam and latex layers on top and a zoned coil base on the bottom.
How It Performed
Edge support is one of the WinkBed’s key strengths due to the zoned coils. Temperature control is another highlight, thanks to the breathable Tencel cover and strong airflow throughout the coil support core. These features make the WinkBed a suitable option for couples.
During our tests, the medium firm WinkBed was one of the most versatile models. The mattress earned rave reviews from back and stomach sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds, as well as side sleepers weighing 130 to 230 pounds. Many testers attributed the mattress’ exceptional comfort to its mid-level firmness and ultra-supportive feel. The medium soft model was best suited for side and back sleepers up to 130 pounds, while the firmer models were most beneficial for back and stomach sleepers over 130 pounds.
WinkBed mattresses ship free to the contiguous U.S. Customers may purchase White Glove delivery and old mattress removal as well. The mattress comes with a 120-night sleep trial and lifetime warranty.
“The affordably priced Helix Midnight Luxe has a balanced design that should appeal to a wide range of sleepers. Our tests show this foam-over-coil hybrid excels at temperature control, ease of movement, and pressure relief.” – Lauren Fountain, Senior Editor
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Pros
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Foam comfort system offers above-average conforming and pressure relief
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Two options for cover material, both with cooling properties
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Reinforced support core provides good edge support for easy movement
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Cons
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Stomach sleepers over 230 pounds may need a softer bed
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Responsive coils produce some motion transfer
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Firm (6)
Trial Period
100 nights (30-night requirement)
Customer Reviews
Julia R.
“I have better sleeps now because of purchasing this mattress. I’m mostly a side and back sleeper but am a lightweight person and this mattress felt great and I sleep the whole night through now.”
Morgan P.
“My wife is a rock while I am an active sleeper and she has had no complaints about bounce or movement on her side of the bed.”
Mandy W.
“Very comfortable and nicely made mattress. I’m a warm sleeper, and this mattress is very warm at night…so be aware if that’s something that bothers you.”
The Helix Midnight Luxe is a hybrid mattress with a responsive feel and a well-cushioned foam surface. This design benefits side sleepers who need a bed that supports the body but also cradles areas with pressure buildup.
What It’s Made of
The comfort system in the Helix Midnight Luxe is made of three foam layers. The top layer is a responsive polyfoam that balances contouring and responsiveness. This is followed by two memory foam layers that cradle the body to support the spine and reduce pressure buildup. The support core is made with coils that are reinforced around the entire perimeter. For the cover, you can choose between Tencel or a GlacioTex Cooling material, which is engineered to regulate temperature.
How It Performed
The Helix Midnight Luxe has a medium firm (6) feel that should be comfortable for a broad swath of sleepers. With ample contouring from the memory foam, this model is excellent for side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds and back sleepers under 130 pounds. The foam cushions the shoulders, hips, and spine while the coil system amps up responsiveness. A zoned design in the coils offers extra support for the lumbar region. The responsive surface also makes it easy to change positions.
After delivery, customers have 100 nights to try out the Helix Midnight Luxe with the option to return it for a full refund. A 15-year warranty protects against mattress defects.
“The all-foam Silk & Snow is a solid pick if you’re looking for that cradling hug only memory foam can deliver. Side sleepers on our team were especially impressed, as were back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds.” – Jeremy Klein, Senior Product Expert
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Pros
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Triple-layer foam design offers strong contouring to reduce pressure buildup
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Memory foam layer has above-average density to prevent excessive sinkage
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Cover is removable and machine-washable
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Cons
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Hot sleepers may overheat
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Deep “hug” reduces ease of movement
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Mattress Type
Foam
Firmness Options
Medium (5)
Trial Period
100 nights (30-night requirement)
Customer Reviews
Maureen S.
“This bed was amazing for the first month or so because it was nice and firm, then started slightly sagging. I rotate it monthly, but there are indentations where I sleep.”
Roger
“I have been sleeping on the mattress for 8 months. The mattress still remains oddly firm and yet soft at the same time. I sleep through the night and even find myself sleeping in on the weekend now and then.”
Laurie M.
“At first it was hard to get used to but now I love it. I don’t feel my partner get out of bed which is a plus.”
The Silk & Snow Mattress is an all-foam bed that offers excellent contouring for sleepers who experience painful pressure buildup. The bed carries an attractive price-point given the quality of its materials, especially compared to other beds in similar price ranges.
What It’s Made of
The mattress features three layers of foam and has a medium (5) feel. It begins with a top layer of memory foam infused with a cooling gel. This foam has a higher density composition than some competing memory foam beds, which generates stronger support. The next layer is made of polyfoam that balances cushioning with support, while the bottom layer is dense and supportive to create a sturdy base for the bed. The removable and machine washable cover is made of a polyester and spandex fabric blend.
How It Performed
During performance tests, we found that the Silk & Snow’s foam layers excelled at relieving pressure buildup in areas like the shoulders, hips, and spine, which exert more pressure on the bed surface during sleep. The foam also absorbed a lot of motion, so our testers barely felt each other’s movements when sharing the bed. This is an asset for couples, especially if you wake easily when your sleep partner moves at night. The bed earned the highest marks from side sleepers who weighed up to 230 pounds, as well as back and stomach sleepers up to 130 pounds.
Silk & Snow offers free shipping to the contiguous U.S. You can try out the bed for 100 nights and return it within this timeframe for a full refund. The mattress is also backed by a 15-year warranty.
“The coil-on-coil Saatva Classic provides plenty of bounce, but the adaptive foam layers prevent the surface from feeling too stiff. Our tests show this mattress also excels at cooling — air flows freely through both coil layers, and this creates plenty of circulation near the surface.” – Tom Ryan, Director of Product Testing
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Pros
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Three firmness options
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Coil-on-coil design allows ample airflow and cooling
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Free White Glove delivery
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Cons
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Coils produce some motion transfer across surface
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Above-average pricing and $99 return fee
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Mattress Type
Innerspring
Firmness Options
Soft (3), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Price Range
$995 – $2,710
Trial Period
365 Nights ($99 Return Fee)
Customer Reviews
Chang L.
“I’m a back and occasional side sleeper, and absolutely love this bed. My husband is a stomach sleeper and would prefer his bed to be a tiny bit firmer.”
Nancy
“If you like a firm mattress, Saatva Classic may be for you. If, like me, you are used to a plush pillow top mattress and you want a soft plush mattress, you should keep looking. This is a nice mattress, but it is NOT soft.”
Sunny B.
“I love my new Saatva classic full, luxury firm matress. I went with the 14.5″ and I’m really happy with it. I didn’t give 5 stars because it is softer than I expected from a ‘firm’ mattress, but maybe it’s just a matter of getting used to it.”
The Saatva Classic is a luxury innerspring model featuring a dual-coil design and multiple customization options. Customers have the option to pick between two mattress heights, with no difference in feel.
What It’s Made of
You can choose between three firmness levels: soft (3), medium firm (6), and firm (8). All three models have a Euro-top followed by two thin layers of polyfoam and memory foam, which provide some cushion as well as lumbar support. A transitional layer of individually pocketed minicoils provides extra support while creating minimal motion transfer. Below, the hourglass coil support core has a foam encasement reinforcing the perimeter, helping provide support right up to the edge of the bed. The entire mattress is wrapped in a tufted organic cotton cover with a natural thistle fire retardant.
How It Performed
During our tests, we found the dual coil system provided excellent relief for sleepers who are susceptible to uncomfortable pressure buildup. Side sleepers, in particular, gave the mattress high marks since this position tends to put pressure on the shoulders and hips. The mattress may also appeal to people who run hot during sleep. The top layer of coils is situated close to the surface, so this layer goes a long way toward promoting airflow and helping maintain a cool sleep surface.
Saatva offers a 365-night sleep trial and a lifetime warranty. Orders in the contiguous U.S. include free White Glove delivery and old mattress removal.
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
Nolah Evolution 15
35% off mattresses + 2 free pillows at Nolah
$1,624 at Nolah Sleep
“Side sleepers like me don’t always have the best experiences on hybrids, but the Nolah Evolution’s deep foam system really sets it apart from the competition. You can feel each of the four foam layers working together to cradle and cushion your body, so there isn’t too much pressure buildup on your shoulders and hips.” – Colin Simpson, Research Manager
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Pros
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Available in three firmness levels
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Proprietary cooling foam and ample airflow through coils provide excellent temperature control
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Zoned coil system with perimeter reinforcement offers strong support
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Cons
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Co-sleepers might feel some motion transfer from coils
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Price-point may be high for shoppers on a tight budget
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement)
Customer Reviews
Phyllis B.
“I don’t wake up with shoulder or neck pain like I did with my previous mattress (I am a side sleeper). I also don’t feel it when my husband gets in and out of bed. Recommend it!”
Christopher R.
“It is one of those Goldilocks situations where the bed is not too hard, not too soft, but just right. My wife prefers more support while I prefer more comfort, but the bed works well for the both of us.”
Joseph B.
“I very much love my new Nolah mattress. It is firm but not too firm. Just the way I like it. I especially like the firm edges.”
The Nolah Evolution 15 is a pressure-relieving hybrid mattress that’s available in three firmness levels. You can choose between medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (8) options, which Nolah has named Plush, Luxury Firm, and Firm, respectively. While materials and specifications vary a bit between models, all three feature several cooling features and a foam comfort system that hugs pressure-prone areas.
What It’s Made of
The support core is built from pocketed coils that are zoned and reinforced at the edges. A layer of polyfoam rests above the core and prevents sleepers from sinking too deeply into the mattress, even when using the softest model. Proprietary graphite-infused polyfoam called AirFoam gently cradles your body and helps draw excess heat away from you while you sleep.
How It Performed
Each model features a quilted Euro-top that cushions without affecting the support level. In addition to the AirFoam, the Evolution 15 includes a heat escape gusset, thermal conductive fabric, and a layer of wool and cotton that are all included to help regulate temperature. A carrying handle and non-skid base allow for easy use. The zoned coil layer provides more robust support around your lower back and midsection while allowing more give beneath your shoulders and legs.
Six standard sizes are available, as well as a split king size for people who own adjustable beds. Nolah provides a 120-night sleep trial as well as a lifetime warranty, though you can opt out of the free trial for added savings. Free shipping is available to shoppers in the contiguous U.S. and you can choose to add old mattress removal and set up at checkout.
Best Mattress for Couples
Leesa Sapira Hybrid
20% off mattresses + free pillows at Leesa
$1,599 at Leesa
“The Leesa Sapira Hybrid’s thoughtful design elevates it over many competing models. Most of our testers had good things to say about the mattress in terms of pressure relief, temperature control, and easy movement.” — Tom Ryan, Director of Product Testing
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Pros
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Aerated foam and ventilated coils promote airflow to help the mattress sleep cool
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Perimeter reinforcement in the support core protects the edges from excessive sinkage
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Above-average pressure relief compared to other hybrid models
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Cons
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Back and stomach sleepers over 230 pounds may experience uncomfortable sinkage
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Potential for foam off-gassing in the first few days after unboxing
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Firm (6)
Price Range
$1,349 – $2,299
Trial Period
100 nights (30 night requirement)
Customer Reviews
William M.
“This mattress is firm, but not too firm and soft, but not too soft. It’s comfortable.”
Annali S.
“Very supportive and comfy bed. Takes some getting used to if you are a side sleeper and on the lighter side but ultimately more supportive and better for back pain than our last mattress. Great edge support.”
Elizabeth
“We were initially worried it would be too soft but that hasn’t been a problem. The issue seems to be that it gets really warm ensconced in there overnight, such that I am tossing off coverings in the wee hours.”
The Leesa Sapira Hybrid is designed with balanced comfort in mind. Thick foam layers over a sturdy support core of pocketed coils allow the mattress to excel in several key performance areas, including pressure relief, edge support, and temperature control — all qualities that are important for couples seeking a new bed.
What It’s Made of
The Leesa Sapira Hybrid’s comfort system contains a top comfort layer of polyfoam over a secondary memory foam layer. The polyfoam is punched with large holes intended to promote air circulation near the surface of the mattress. This layer has a lightly responsive feel, whereas the memory foam molds to your body’s contours as you sink into the surface. This creates a feeling of both sleeping “in” and sleeping “on” the mattress.
The Sapira Hybrid also features a transitional layer of dense polyfoam over a pocketed coil system and a foam base layer. The coils are zoned for added reinforcement along the perimeter to provide pushback and reduce sinkage. A knit polyester cover encases the entire mattress.
How It Performed
The Leesa Sapira Hybrid is considered medium firm (6), so sleepers should expect gentle contouring and strong overall support. Among our testers, the mattress received the most positive ratings from side sleepers who weigh at least 130 pounds, and back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds.
The Sapira Hybrid also scores points for temperature control, thanks in large part to the aerated foam layer and steady air currents flowing through the coil system. Other major strengths include edge support and ease of movement. The responsive coils ensure most people can move across the surface without feeling trapped by the mattress, while the perimeter feels exceptionally sturdy.
Leesa offers free ground shipping for customers in all 50 states. Sapira Hybrid orders include a 100-night sleep trial with free returns after a 30-night break-in period, and those who keep the mattress also receive a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Best Mattress for Back Pain
Bear Elite Hybrid
35% off + 2 free pillows at Bear. Code: SF35
$1,499 at Bear
“If you struggle with back pain, our tests show the Bear Elite Hybrid should provide enough contouring on the surface to alleviate your pressure points and sore spots. The zoned coils also play a role by reinforcing the lumbar region and keeping your body on an even plane.” – Jeremy Klein, Senior Product Expert
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Pros
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Foam layers and responsive coils cradle sensitive pressure points
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Celliant-blend and PCM cover designed to prevent heat buildup
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Three firmness options
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Cons
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Coils produce some motion transfer
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Sleepers who prioritize pressure relief may prefer all-foam model
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night break-in period)
Customer Reviews
Walter F.
“I weigh 220 lbs, my wife weighs 130 lbs… we both love the mattress. The hybrid gives me the support I need, while it also gives my wife the comfort she needs. It’s the best parts of a coil mattress and a memory foam mattress.”
Keith B.
“I sleep with my wife and bad edge support is a non-starter for her. On the Bear Elite Hybrid she sleeps right near the edge with no issues. Edge support is very good.”
Sheila H.
“I think for the money, the Bear Elite Hybrid felt higher-quality compared to other online mattresses, regardless of price. This is built and feels more like a quality traditional mattress compared to many others.”
Our testers with back pain often benefit from mattresses with cushioning for the spine and robust support to maintain healthy sleep posture. The Bear Elite Hybrid is a hybrid with foam layers that relieve pressure and evenly distribute weight, while a coil system keeps your body on an even plane. With three firmness options to choose from, you can pick the design best suited for your sleep position and body type.
What It’s Made of
The Bear Elite Hybrid comes in medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (8) options. All three models begin with a quilted cover and layer of adaptive memory foam. Underneath is a polyfoam transitional layer that acts as a buffer between your body and the coils. These comfort layers vary in firmness depending on which firmness option you choose. Pocketed coils reinforce the sleep surface and strengthen the edges of the mattress. The coils rest on a polyfoam base layer for extra stability.
The cover is made of a proprietary fabric blend that integrates Celliant, a material engineered to absorb your body heat, turn it into infrared energy, and confer it back to you to promote recovery. The cover is also infused with phase change material (PCM) that helps regulate temperature.
How It Performed
The medium firm and firm options of the Bear Elite Hybrid are easy to move across without sinking or feeling stuck. This can be attributed to a coil system that makes the surface bouncy and reinforces the perimeter, which may appeal to couples who prioritize a responsive mattress for sex. The Celliant-blend and PCM cover effectively keeps the surface cool by offsetting heat retention from the foam layers. Steady airflow through the coil layer provides additional thermoregulation.
The medium model is best suited for side and back sleepers up to 130 pounds, since these sleepers need a fair amount of cushioning to cradle the shoulders, hips, and spine. The medium firm model felt most comfortable to side sleepers over 130 pounds and back sleepers up to 230 pounds. The firm option earned its highest marks from stomach and back sleepers over 130 pounds.
Bear’s 120-night sleep trial allows you ample time to test the Bear Elite Hybrid and decide whether it meets your needs. Should you decide to keep the mattress, you’ll also qualify for a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty. Shipping is free for all orders in the contiguous U.S.
Best Cooling Mattress
Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe
Save 25% sitewide at Brooklyn Bedding
$1,698 at Brooklyn Bedding
“Foam hybrids can be problematic when it comes to overheating, but our field tester who uses the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe reports consistent cooling night after night — even during the summer months. We recommend one of the firmer designs if you’re an exceptionally hot sleeper because they won’t hug your body as closely.” – Tom Ryan, Director of Product Testing
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Pros
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Three firmness options
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Thick foam comfort layers offer generous pressure relief
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Phase change material helps to maintain a cool surface
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Cons
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Limited motion isolation due to coils
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Price-point with pillow-top may be high for budget shoppers
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7)
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement)
Customer Reviews
Jill Z.
“This is our second Aurora Luxe. Bought one a year ago for the 5th Wheel. The latest one is for our winter home. Bought the medium and its great for the wife. I am some heavier and might like the firm better but the medium is a good compromise.”
Kris C.
“While not quite as cooling as we were hoping for, this mattress is so comfortable! It just seems to get better by the day.”
Luana P.
“I have a chronic pain syndrome so most beds aren’t comfortable for me, but the Aurora Luxe is more comfortable than most, and works well with my fibromyalgia condition.”
The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Hybrid is a hybrid model available in three different firmness levels. Across all firmness options, the mattress is designed with cooling features that should keep the bed at a comfortable, cool temperature for hot sleepers.
What It’s Made of
Shoppers can choose between a medium soft (4), medium firm (6), and firm (7) version of the mattress. All models begin with a top layer of proprietary CopperFlex foam, which conforms to the body and provides targeted relief to areas of the body that need it most. This is followed by a TitanFlex foam layer, which balances additional contouring with a slightly bouncy feel. The medium soft and medium firm options then feature a 1-inch layer of memory foam, which enhances pressure relief, while the firm model uses a layer of VariFlex to give the bed a firmer feel. If you prefer more cushioning from your sleep surface, the optional “Cloud” foam layer can be added to the top of your comfort system for an extra fee.
Underneath the comfort layers is a sturdy coil system zoned to offer stronger support to the lower back while relieving pressure in areas like the shoulders and hips. The cover is composed of a soft fabric infused with TitanCool, a phase change material (PCM) designed to keep the bed surface cool.
How It Performed
Given its thick foam comfort system, the Aurora Hybrid excels at relieving pressure in areas that are prone to painful pressure buildup at night. During tests, the two softer models earned especially high marks from back and side sleepers under 130 pounds. Side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds also found these firmness levels comfortable, thanks to the even mix of cushioning for the shoulders and hips and support for the lower back. The firm model appealed most to back and stomach sleepers who weigh over 130 pounds. Hot sleepers found the bed very comfortable, thanks to air circulation through the coils and PCM in the cover.
Customers receive a 120-night sleep trial with their purchase, and Brooklyn Bedding offers a 10-year warranty with the mattress. The bed ships free within the contiguous U.S.
Best Mattress for Heavy Sleepers
Titan Plus Luxe
30% off sitewide with code: MEMORIAL30
$1,199 at Titan
“The Titan Luxe is a great option for people who need maximum support from their mattress, but also enjoy a bit of surface-level cushioning. The foam layers are dense enough to withstand deep compression, so there isn’t that hugging effect you’d get from memory foam.” – Danny Noyed, Senior Product Editor
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Pros
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Foam layers provide strong pressure relief while TitanCaliber coils excel at support
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Airflow through coils enhances cooling
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Sturdy perimeter coils offer strong edge support
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Cons
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Side sleepers under 130 pounds may need a plusher bed
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Responsive coils limit motion transfer
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Firm (6)
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement)
Customer Reviews
Jadynrose H.
“I have never slept so good on a mattress. My only complaint is that I wish the cooling top did MORE cooling.”
Taylor T.
“The only issue it the smell the mattress had initially. It was a heavy chemical smell. I aired it out for two days in a closed off room with the windows open with a heavy fan blowing thru it and over. 10 hours a day. This solved the chemical smell.”
Elise C.
“We love our new Titan Plus Luxe. We had an all memory foam mattress before but it started to sag. The hybrid model makes the Titan Luxe super soft and comfortable while also being incredibly supportive for plus size sleepers.”
Many mattresses that cater to heavy sleepers end up sacrificing some cushioning for support, but the Titan Plus Luxe from Brooklyn Bedding is a notable exception. This hybrid model has a foam and coil design that cushions your body while still offering plenty of sturdiness to keep you well supported.
What It’s Made of
The surface of the mattress is quilted with an inch of memory foam infused with a cooling gel. This is followed by a thicker layer of TitanFlex foam, which contours to the body but less so than the memory foam. Beneath is a transition layer made of Energex foam with a firmer feel, followed by a thick layer of TitanCaliber coils that generate strong support. For an additional fee, you can add a GlacioTex Cooling Cover. This is made with phase change material that helps keep the surface cool.
How It Performed
With an overall medium firm (6) feel, the Titan Plus Luxe felt very supportive during our tests, while still offering pressure relief for areas like the shoulders and hips. If you need a lot of support but have a co-sleeper who favors strong pressure relief, this is a nice happy medium. This design felt comfortable for a wide range of testers on our team, though it was most comfortable for side sleepers who weighed over 230 pounds and back sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds.
Strong coils reinforce the bed’s perimeter, so we found the edges didn’t sag much when we sat on them. Airflow through the coils helps reduce heat retention, so hot sleepers shouldn’t overheat excessively. If you’d like to ensure a cooler surface, you can always purchase the cooling panel.
The Titan Plus Luxe ships for free and comes with a 120-night sleep trial. The mattress is also backed by a 10-year warranty.
“The Birch Mattress checks a lot of boxes for couples who share a California king. Solid support from edge to edge lets you use the entire surface, the responsive latex helps you move on the surface without sinking, and the breathable materials give the mattress great temperature control.” – Lauren Fountain, Senior Editor
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Pros
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Wool and latex layers offer gentle contouring
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Coil system and reinforced edges ensure ample support
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Breathable materials and airflow through coils promote natural cooling
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Cons
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Side sleepers under 130 pounds may need a softer bed
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Latex and coils produce some motion transfer
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Mattress Type
Latex Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Firm (6)
Trial Period
100 nights (30-night requirement)
Customer Reviews
Tate O.
“Was a little firm feeling for me at first but I’ve gotten used to it. For me it’s worth it for an environmentally friendly option.”
Ricardo G.
“It did take 2 to 3 weeks to break in and get used to but after that it’s been smooth sailing.”
Pamela F.
“I have suffered with back pain for two years, we were using a memory foam mattress. I now have no back pain. This mattress far surpassed our expectations
The Birch Mattress is a high-end mattress made with wool, latex, and steel coils. The premium materials offer more comfort than the average hybrid model, and they boast several certifications to ensure the bed is as eco-friendly as it is comfortable.
What It’s Made of
The mattress begins with a plush quilted Euro-top and organic cotton cover. Next is a layer of wool that cushions the body and serves as a fire retardant, followed by an additional wool layer. The wool enhances the plushness and regulates temperature thanks to the material’s natural breathability. A Talalay latex layer balances contouring and bounce, while the sturdy steel coils provide sturdy support for your entire body. Extra reinforcement along the longer sides of the bed helps prevent sagging on the edges.
The cotton is GOTS-certified organic, the latex has certification from the eco-INSTITUT, and the entire mattress is GREENGUARD Gold-certified to show it has met rigorous health and safety standards.
How It Performed
Data-Driven Results You Can Trust
Our team at Sleep Foundation relies on rigorous hands-on evaluations as well as years of experience in the sleep product industry. We understand that mattress comfort is largely dependent on individual needs and preferences, so our team includes all sleeping positions with different body types. This way, we can be inclusive of as many sleepers as possible in our California king mattress picks.
How Our Testing Process Works
To find the best California king beds, we performed various tests using special tools to measure pressure relief, temperature neutrality, and motion isolation. Our testers also sit, lie down, and move around on the mattress surface to evaluate firmness, support, and edge support. The top performers in our tests are reflected in the list of picks above.
If you’re interested in learning more about our evaluation criteria, read our product research methodology below:
motion isolation
Motion isolation refers to how well a mattress’ materials absorb and reduce motion transfer across the surface. Mattresses with high marks in this category are most beneficial for couples and other co-sleepers.
temperature control
Temperature neutrality is most important for hot sleepers and those living in warmer climates. Many mattresses use breathable materials that circulate more air, like coil support cores, latex, and cotton to combat overheating.
pressure relief
Mattresses can reduce pressure buildup in a sleeper’s joints using thicker comfort layers to cradle pressure points. Comfort layers made from foam and latex tend to perform well in this category.
off gassing
Off-gassing refers to odors from volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions or other material smells. These odors usually release after a new mattress is unboxed, but they are temporary and relatively harmless.
ease of movement
Sleepers may prefer mattresses that allow them to change positions without restriction. Mattresses with more responsive materials like latex tend to facilitate more effortless movement throughout the night.
edge support
Edge support refers to the sturdiness of a mattress perimeter. Lack of reinforcement along the perimeter forces sleepers to lie closer to the center to avoid slipping.
sex
Responsive mattresses made with latex comfort systems or coil support cores typically rank highly for sex. These components also circulate more air, making them a good option for couples who tend to overheat.
body weight
Body weight is crucial to determining your firmness and support needs, but sleeping position and general preferences are also important factors. Our picks based on body weight are subjective, so we encourage sleepers to test multiple firmness levels.
Dive Deeper – In-Depth Mattress Guides
If you’re still not sure a California king mattress is the right choice for your needs, you can review our detailed recommendations broken down by size.
What are the Main Differences Between a King and a California King?
King and California king size beds differ in terms of their measurements and how much space they take up. The two beds have the following measurements:
- King: 76 inches x 80 inches
- California king: 72 inches x 84 inches
Taller people who tend to sleep stretched out might prefer the California king since it measures 7 feet in length. People with pets might also prefer the additional length, so pets can sleep comfortably at the end of the bed.
The size and shape of your bedroom can also influence which king size you prefer. The beds take up the following square footage:
- King: 42.22 square feet
- California king: 42 square feet
Bedding is another factor to consider when choosing between a standard and California king. The standard king mattress is more common, so there are more bedding options for that size and it’s likely easier to find low-cost bedding.
What to Look For in a Mattress
Different people need different characteristics in a mattress depending on their preferences, sleep position habits, and body weights. The following factors determine how a mattress feels to you, how long it will last, how well it supports you throughout the night, and more.
- Price: Most mattress companies offer king and California king sizes at the same price, so mattress cost isn’t usually a differentiating factor between those two sizes. Mattress prices often differ based on the quality of materials used. Online retailers have been able to offer lower prices by cutting costs associated with showrooms and stores.
- Sleeping Position: Your preferred sleep position influences which mattress is best for you. People who sleep on their backs might prefer firmer mattresses that offer adequate lumbar support. Side sleepers often need softer mattresses so they don’t develop pressure points in their shoulder and hip areas. Bodyweight also factors in, with heavier folks needing firmer mattresses.
- Mattress Type: Mattresses come in multiple constructions: innerspring, all-foam, hybrid, latex, and airbed. Each mattress type has its own feel. Innerspring and latex mattresses tend to be bouncy, while hybrid and foam beds are more conforming. Of course, there is also quite a bit of variation within each mattress type.
- Contouring: Contouring is the degree to which a mattress conforms to or cradles weight placed on top of it. Memory foam is the mattress material known for providing the most contouring. Memory foam can “hug” the body, providing a sensation that many sleepers enjoy. Contouring mattresses tend to cushion the body well and relieve pressure. All-foam mattresses and hybrid mattresses with memory foam are most contouring.
- Quality Materials: Each mattress material, from steel coils to memory foam, comes in a range of quality levels. Often, but not always, higher-quality materials come with a higher price tag. When it comes to memory foam and polyfoam, higher density is generally higher quality. In the world of latex, typically the more natural the product, the higher the quality.
- Firmness Level: The mattress firmness scale ranges from 1 to 10 and provides a standardized measurement according to which the firmness of different mattresses can be compared. Most mattresses fall between 3 and 8 in terms of firmness, while most sleepers prefer mattresses in the 4 to 6 range.
- Edge Support: Edge support to how firm the edges of a mattress remain when weight is put on them. When a mattress has strong edge support, sleepers can use the full surface of the bed without fear of rolling off due to buckled edges. Innerspring mattresses are known for superior edge support.
- Temperature Neutrality: When a mattress is truly temperature neutral, it doesn’t cause a person to feel too hot or cold throughout the night. Sleeping hot is a problem many people face. Foams and other materials that contour closely also tend to trap heat. There are many efforts manufacturers make to counteract this and achieve temperature neutrality.
- Noise: Some mattresses, particularly those with innersprings, can make noise when weight is put on them or movement occurs. Individually-encased pocketed coils are generally quieter than innersprings, which can squeak. All-foam mattresses tend to be the quietest of all and are virtually silent.
Types of Mattresses
There are five major mattress constructions on the market today: innerspring, foam, latex, hybrid (a combination of coils with foam or latex), and airbed. Generally, since the mattresses within each category are constructed similarly, they share commonalities and features.
That being said, there is plenty of variation within each mattress type category as well. Individual models of mattresses within a larger group fall across a spectrum in terms of quality, materials used, and performance.
Hybrid
Definition: Hybrid mattresses are an attempt to combine the best characteristics of different mattress types into a single bed. Hybrids contain a coil support core and comfort layers of either memory foam or latex. They are usually cooler and have stronger edge support than all-foam beds while providing more cushion than the average innerspring mattress.
Widely Comfortable: California king mattress shoppers often share a bed with a partner, kids, or pets. Hybrids can be a good choice for bed sharing because they tend to stay temperature neutral due to airflow through the coil layer. Their feel is often a mix of responsiveness and conforming, which can be a good compromise for people with different preferences.
Innerspring
Definition: Springs make up the support core of innerspring mattresses and create a bouncy, responsive bed. Innersprings tend to remain temperature neutral and provide a firm sleeping surface. As one of the oldest mattress technologies, innerspring mattresses are some of the most affordable beds available.
Cooling Firmness: Innerspring mattresses allow for a lot of airflow and, as a result, remain temperature neutral throughout the night. People who sleep hot or share a bed will find that an innerspring mattress doesn’t trap heat the way some all-foam or hybrids might.
Latex
Definition: Latex is made from natural or synthetic rubber and can be used in a mattress’s support core, comfort layers, or both. Latex mattresses tend to be the longest lasting and can potentially last decades. Sleepers who enjoy a soft yet responsive mattress surface will be happy with a latex mattress.
Responsive Comfort: Latex provides cushion and contouring without sinkage. People who share a bed can enjoy the softness of latex without worrying that they will sink too far into the bed or into each other.
Airbed
Definition: Airbeds, not to be confused with inflatable air mattresses, are beds that use air chambers instead of coils, foam, or latex as their support core. Often, the air levels in the mattress can be controlled, allowing sleepers to instantly make their mattresses softer or firmer to meet their needs.
Adjustable Support: Many airbeds have separate, adjustable firmness levels on each side of the bed, which is a major benefit to people who share a bed. If you fall in a different weight group or have different mattress preferences than your sleep partner, you could adjust only your side of the bed in many airbeds.
Foam
Definition: Foam beds are known for the “hugging” sensation of memory foam, though not all foam beds are extremely conforming. Foam makes up both the support core and comfort layers, although some beds have additional comfort layer materials as well. Foam beds can tend to trap heat, so many are constructed with infusions of cooling material to help sleepers stay temperature neutral.
Contouring Relief: Foam mattresses can be a good choice for people who share a bed with someone who prefers a different sleep position. Memory foam tends to provide the most cushion and pressure relief, and a well-constructed foam bed will be supportive of all sleep positions.
Last Things to Consider When You’re Buying a California King
- Bed Frame: Since California king mattresses are less common, bed frames might be harder to find. For simplicity, you could purchase a mattress from a manufacturer that also sells bed frames.
- Sheets and Bedding: California king size sheets and bedding are less common than standard king size sheets and bedding. As a result, you may have to do more searching and deal with having fewer bedding options.
- Doorways and Room Size: California king mattresses run 4 inches longer length-wise and 4 inches shorter width-wise than standard kings. Anyone interested in buying a California king should take this into consideration when measuring their spaces, because it could make the mattress easier or more difficult to install.
- Mattress Weight and Setup: California king and standard king mattresses have nearly identical weights, though California kings might weigh slightly less since they are slightly smaller in terms of square footage. Both mattress setup processes are generally identical. White Glove delivery services include in-home assembly, which may be worth it if you need assistance setting up a larger mattress.
Still have questions?
Our product experts have extensive experience testing just about every sleep product on the market.
Send an email to [email protected] with your questions and we’ll help you find exactly what you’re looking for.
Jackson leads editorial product recommendations at Sleep Foundation, transforming the data from our sleep product test lab into real world takeaways for consumers. He has spent over half a decade developing protocol to evaluate and measure the impacts of products on sleep quality. As a cited sleep product expert, Jackson helps guide millions of shoppers to find personalized recommendations for everything from pillows to bedding to mattresses.