We’ve tested 320+ mattresses using our battery of objective & data-driven tests. Our best extra firm mattress list analyzes all of our performance tests, data, and research to highlight the best-performing mattresses with an extra firm feel.
Top Pick
Plank Firm
The Plank Firm is our top-performing extra firm mattress. It has a flippable design with a firm and extra firm side. To date, the Plank is the highest-performing extra firm mattress tested. Lastly, it is a fantastic value at less than $1K.
The 4 Best Extra Firm Mattresses
- Plank Firm – Best Overall
- Plank Firm Luxe – Best for Bounce
- Plank Firm Natural – Best For Natural Materials
- Helix Plus – Best For Plus-Sized
| Mattress Name | Overall Score | Type | Firmness | Price | Read Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plank Firm | 8.87 | Foam, Flippable | Firm (8) or Extra Firm (9) | $999 | Review |
| Plank Firm Luxe | 8.76 | Hybrid, Flippable | Firm (8) or Extra Firm (9) | $1,072 | Review |
| Plank Firm Natural | 8.55 | Latex Hybrid, Flippable | Firm (8) or Extra Firm (9) | $1,599 | Review |
| Helix Plus | 8.24 | Plus-Sized | Extra Firm (9) | $1,099 | Review |
Looking for something slightly softer? Check out our list of Best Firm Mattresses here, for our top picks with a firmness level of 8 out of 10.
Our Testing & Selection Process
320+
Mattresses Tested
To Date
43
Data Points Tested
On Each Mattress
98
Mattress Brands Tested To Date
Each best list is put through a customized performance analysis with specialized consideration given to our objective & data-driven performance tests. In addition, we consider mattress type, design, materials, value, price, and more.
For our Best Extra Firm Mattress list, we based our selections on the best-scoring mattresses, according to our battery of testing and formulaic-driven scoring.
Our tests analyze performance across 8 critical factors, including cooling, motion transfer, response time, edge support, sex, pressure relief, off-gassing, and company. In addition, we also test sinkage and bounce (though these are not scoring factors).
Our tests include objective and quantifiable data whenever possible. In addition, we use subjective assessment supported by data to round out our testing process.
Our scores are based on mathematical formulas and equations that utilize inputs from our data-driven testing.
In choosing the best extra firm mattresses we looked at the totality of all of our tests, scores, data, and reviews to date. We analyzed this data alongside our established best mattress framework here.
In addition to achieving a high-performance score, all mattresses on this list have an extra firm feel.
When selecting the best extra firm mattress, we’re looking at a combination of overall scoring performance, firmness, and US availability.
To be included within this list all mattresses:
- Had to have a firmness of 9 out of 10, where 10 is the most firm.
- Had to have a performance score of 8.22 or higher.
- Had to be available for purchase within the USA.
Typically, we avoid duplicate brand mentions, but the reality is that there are just not many mattresses on the market that have an extra firm feel. In the interest of only showing mattresses that have an extra firm feel, we have multiple mentions from the brand, Plank.
Plank is designed specifically for sleepers looking for an extra firm feel and the brand has multiple mattresses with that firmness, while also covering a range of mattress types (foam, hybrid, and natural).
As we test more mattresses at the extra firm level, this list can change and adapt to include additional performance-worthy brands. You can see the full list of extra firm mattresses we’ve tested here.
Our Testing Team
Derek
Lead Tester
Kayla
Writer
Kyle
Tester
Nathan
Tester
Samantha
Data Analyst
Plank Firm
Best For
- Back or stomach sleepers looking for a very firm feel
- Fantastic cooling with limited heat retention
- Moderate sinkage and bounce for a balanced feel
Considerations
- Likely too firm for most side sleepers
- 3.0″ comfort layer is 1.2″ thinner than average
- Not amazing for sex performance
Our Verdict
The Plank Firm, by Brooklyn Bedding, is a flippable foam mattress with a 2.0″ poly foam (with a latex-like feel) and support foam base.
It has a flippable design, but there’s not much variety between the sides because the two options are firm and extra firm (8 or 9 out of 10).
This mattress has moderate sinkage and moderate bounce, despite being one of the firmest mattresses we’ve tested to date.
In our performance tests, the Plank Firm scored an 8.87, ranking it in the top 28% of all mattresses tested to date and also the highest-scoring extra firm mattress we’ve tested to date.
For a queen mattress, the Plank Firm costs $999, a savings of $100 compared to the average foam mattress. For a heavier sleeper who wants a mattress with good support and less sinkage, the Plank Firm is a good choice. In addition, for those who just love tons of pushback and tons of firmness, it’s a great option.
Note: We tested both the firm and extra firm sides of the Plank mattress and the firm side scored 8.87, while the extra firm side scored 8.43.
Click here to read the full Plank Firm review.
Type: Foam, Flippable
Firmness: Firm (8) or Extra Firm (9)
Plank Performance
Cooling Test
Sinkage Test
Motion Transfer Test
Response Test
Bounce Test
Edge Support Test
| Factor | Plank Firm |
|---|---|
| Overall Score | 8.87 |
| Price (Queen) | $999 |
| Cooling – Score | 9.0 |
| Sinkage – Depth | 2.11″ |
| Sinkage – Feel | Moderate |
| Motion Transfer – Score | 9.2 |
| Motion Transfer – Acceleration | 6.80 m/s² |
| Response Time – Score | 7.9 |
| Response Time – Mostly Recovered | 0.5 sec. |
| Response Time – Fully Recovered | 1.2 sec. |
| Bounce – Height | 8.05″ |
| Bounce – Feel | Moderate |
| Edge Support – Score | 8.7 |
| Edge Support – Sitting | 4.25″ |
| Edge Support – Lying | Excellent |
| Sex – Score | 8.0 |
| Pressure Relief – Score | 9.0 |
| Comfort Layer Thickness | 3.0″ |
| Mattress Thickness | 10″ |
| Off-Gassing – Score | 9.2 |
| Off-Gassing – Smell | Strong |
| Off-Gassing – Days | 3 days |
| Company – Score | 9.5 |
| Trial | 120 nights |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
Plank Firm Luxe
Best For
- Exceptional edge support sitting or lying at or near the edge
- High levels of bounce can provide a more active feel, better for sex
- Great cooling performance
Considerations
- Higher levels of motion transfer, 15% more than average
- Pressure relief is below average, generally not great for side sleepers
- 120-night trial period is slightly shorter than 179-night average
Why It’s Best
The Plank Firm Luxe is a thicker version of the Plank Firm, listed above. It is a 13.25″ hybrid mattress with a quilted cover, a poly foam comfort layer, and a pocketed coil base. The mattress is flippable so there is also a thin comfort layer and another quilted cover on the opposite side as well.
The Firm Luxe is available in a dual firmness, firm (8) or extra firm (9) depending on which side of the mattresses you flip it on. This firmness is typically best suited to stomach sleepers or back sleepers.
It has moderate levels of sinkage and high levels of bounce. This higher level of bounce (compared to the Plank Firm) can be advantageous for couples as it improves overall sex performance.
In our performance tests, the Firm Luxe earned an overall score of 8.76, ranking in the top 36% of all mattresses tested to date.
This mattress is $1,072 for a queen, which is 24% less expensive than the average hybrid, providing a savings of $346 compared to average.
Click here to read the full Plank Firm Luxe review.
Type: Hybrid, Flippable
Firmness: Firm (8) or Extra Firm (9)
Plank Firm Luxe Performance
Cooling Test
Sinkage Test
Motion Transfer Test
Response Test
Bounce Test
Edge Support Test
| Factor | Plank Firm Luxe |
|---|---|
| Overall Score | 8.76 |
| Price (Queen) | $1,072 |
| Cooling – Score | 9.0 |
| Sinkage – Depth | 2.12″ |
| Sinkage – Feel | Moderate |
| Motion Transfer – Score | 7.7 |
| Motion Transfer – Acceleration | 10.14 m/s² |
| Response Time – Score | 9.1 |
| Response Time – Mostly Recovered | 0.3 sec. |
| Response Time – Fully Recovered | 0.8 sec. |
| Bounce – Height | 10.32″ |
| Bounce – Feel | High |
| Edge Support – Score | 10 |
| Edge Support – Sitting | 3.00″ |
| Edge Support – Lying | Outstanding |
| Sex – Score | 9.1 |
| Pressure Relief – Score | 8.0 |
| Comfort Layer Thickness | 4.5″ |
| Mattress Thickness | 13.25″ |
| Off-Gassing – Score | 8.3 |
| Off-Gassing – Smell | Moderate |
| Off-Gassing – Days | 6 days |
| Company – Score | 9.5 |
| Trial | 120 nights |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
Plank Firm Natural
Best For
- Natural materials with a very firm (yet flippable) feel
- Extremely fast material response time and generalized contour to your body
- Great cooling performance with hole-punched latex
Considerations
- Higher levels of motion transfer, 66% more than average
- Very minimal sinkage may provide too much pushback for many sleepers (especially side sleepers)
- Very high bounce, 28% more than average
Our Verdict
The Plank Firm Natural is a flippable latex hybrid mattress known for its firmness and natural materials. This mattress has a quilted cover with natural latex comfort layers on both sides and a pocketed coil central layer for support.
This mattress is flippable, with one side having a firm (8) feel and the opposite side having an extra firm (9) feel.
It has very minimal sinkage and very high levels of bounce. This creates a lot of pushback and a bouncy top surface. Not all sleepers will enjoy this feel, but the higher bounce is pretty typical of latex hybrids.
In our performance tests, the Plank Natural earned an overall score of 8.55. This score puts the mattress in the bottom 45% of all mattresses tested to date.
The Plank Natural is $1,599 for a queen mattress, making it only 4% more than the average latex hybrid. If you’re exclusively looking for an extra firm natural mattresses and want a great value, this one is the mattress to beat.
Click here to read the full Plank Firm Natural review.
Type: Latex Hybrid, Flippable
Firmness: Firm (8) or Extra Firm (9)
Plank Firm Natural Performance
Cooling Test
Sinkage Test
Motion Transfer Test
Response Test
Bounce Test
Edge Support Test
| Factor | Plank Firm Natural |
|---|---|
| Overall Score | 8.55 |
| Price (Queen) | $1,599 |
| Cooling – Score | 9.0 |
| Sinkage – Depth | 1.53″ |
| Sinkage – Feel | Very Minimal |
| Motion Transfer – Score | 5.7 |
| Motion Transfer – Acceleration | 14.61 m/s² |
| Response Time – Score | 10 |
| Response Time – Mostly Recovered | 0.2 sec. |
| Response Time – Fully Recovered | 0.3 sec. |
| Bounce – Height | 12.24″ |
| Bounce – Feel | Very High |
| Edge Support – Score | 9.5 |
| Edge Support – Sitting | 2.75″ |
| Edge Support – Lying | Excellent |
| Sex – Score | 9.8 |
| Pressure Relief – Score | 8.0 |
| Comfort Layer Thickness | 2.3″ |
| Mattress Thickness | 10.5″ |
| Off-Gassing – Score | 7.8 |
| Off-Gassing – Smell | Strong |
| Off-Gassing – Days | 8 days |
| Company – Score | 9.5 |
| Trial | 120 nights |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
Helix Plus
Best For
- Heavier sleepers over 250 lbs.
- Excellent edge support when sitting or lying
- Fast material response time and great cooling performance
Considerations
- Very minimal sinkage may not be ideal for side sleepers
- Motion transfer levels are 58% higher than average
- Strong off-gassing that takes over
Our Verdict
The Helix Plus is a 12″ hybrid mattress specifically designed for heavier weighted sleepers, 250 lbs. and up. That said, it can still be a good option for any sleeper who prefers the extra firm feel. The mattress comes standard with a thin cover, but you can also upgrade to the advanced cooling cover. The comfort layer is poly foam with a pocketed coil support base.
It is available in a single firmness, extra firm, with a firmness rating of 9 out of 10 (where 10 is the most firm).
This mattress has very minimal sinkage and high levels of bounce.
In our tests, the Helix Plus earned an overall score of 8.24, ranking the mattress in the bottom 24% of all mattresses tested to date. While this score is certainly lower than the average score (8.55), it’s important to remember the specific design and performance attributes. Those same attributes that create that extra firm feel and extra support also cause is to lose points in motion transfer and pressure relief.
It is an ultra-firm mattress, specifically tailored to heavier back or stomach sleepers. If we only consider mattresses at this same firmness level, the Helix Plus rises to the top 44%. And if we only look at mattresses designed for heavier sleepers, the Helix Plus is the #1 choice.
This mattress costs $1,099 for a queen mattress, 28% less than the average plus-sized mattress. If you’re looking for an extra firm feel on a tighter budget, the Helix Plus is a great option to consider.
Click here to read the full Helix Plus review.
Type: Plus-Sized
Firmness: Extra Firm (9)
Helix Plus Performance
Cooling Test
Sinkage Test
Motion Transfer Test
Response Test
Bounce Test
Edge Support Test
| Factor | Helix Plus |
|---|---|
| Overall Score | 8.24 |
| Price (Queen) | $1,099 |
| Cooling – Score | 9.0 |
| Sinkage – Depth | 1.44″ |
| Sinkage – Feel | Very Minimal |
| Motion Transfer – Score | 6.0 |
| Motion Transfer – Acceleration | 13.98 m/s² |
| Response Time – Score | 10 |
| Response Time – Mostly Recovered | 0.2 sec. |
| Response Time – Fully Recovered | 0.3 sec. |
| Bounce – Height | 10.90″ |
| Bounce – Feel | High |
| Edge Support – Score | 10 |
| Edge Support – Sitting | 3.00″ |
| Edge Support – Lying | Outstanding |
| Sex – Score | 9.3 |
| Pressure Relief – Score | 7.0 |
| Comfort Layer Thickness | 3.5″ |
| Mattress Thickness | 12″ |
| Off-Gassing – Score | 4.7 |
| Off-Gassing – Smell | Strong |
| Off-Gassing – Days | 19 days |
| Company – Score | 9.5 |
| Trial | 100 nights |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
Best Mattress By Category
Have a specific mattress type, sleeping position, feature, or firmness in mind? At NapLab we’ve ranked the mattresses we’ve tested in 23 different specialized best mattress lists. These lists can help you identify the mattresses best suited to specific needs and preferences.
You can also see our best mattress guide for our overall best-ranked mattresses.
Best by Features & Price
Best by Position & People
