We tested a variety of air mattresses to find the best options available. Here's our list of top picks.

Our Top Choice

Out of the 32 air mattresses we tested, the SereneLife model stood out for its ease of use, customizable firmness settings, and overall comfort, earning our top recommendation. Its standout feature is the continuous pump, which automatically inflates the mattress to the desired firmness (plush, medium, or firm), shutting off once it's properly inflated—no more middle-of-the-night pump-ups. After experiencing this, we can’t imagine using an air mattress without this feature.

The setup was straightforward and easy to follow. Although there was some noise during the initial inflation, the continuous pump was surprisingly quiet. We also found it to be quite portable—unlike other air mattresses that can be difficult to fit into their storage bags, this one was compact and simple to carry around.

We found the mattress to be sturdy and well-constructed. The surface felt soft, almost like felt, while the sides had a rubber-like texture. It performed excellently in our puncture test, showing no leaks or wear. We tested the firmest setting and were impressed with how comfortable and supportive it was, even with two people on it—and it didn’t lose air at all.

Size: Full | Height: 18 inches | Weight Capacity: 500 pounds

Best for Lumbar Support

Air mattresses are typically not known for their support, particularly if you're using one for an extended period. However, the Simmons Lumbar Firm Full Tri-Zone Air Mattress breaks the mold. Featuring raised air coils in the center, it’s specifically engineered to provide enhanced lumbar support, helping to keep your spine properly aligned all night. During testing, we immediately found it comfortable in all positions. There was no sinking or shifting, even when two people were on it.

Inflation took less than two minutes—all we had to do was remove it from the bag, unfold it, plug it in, and twist the knob. Deflation was equally simple—just reverse the steps. The built-in pump was a little noisy but not overly disruptive, resembling the hum of a dryer or washing machine. Once we were on the mattress, it was very quiet, producing only soft sounds when we shifted. We also didn’t notice any leaks or hissing overnight.

We appreciated how effortlessly the air mattress folded up and fit into the carrying bag, making it an excellent choice for overnight trips. Keep in mind, though, that the carrying case lacks handles, which made transport a little tricky. Overall, we love that this option is comfortable, durable, and compact enough to take on the go. If you’re looking for an easy-to-set-up, supportive air mattress, this one is definitely worth considering.

Size: Full, Queen | Height: 12 inches | Weight Capacity: 650 pounds

Best Features

For those who appreciate extra features, the Sealy AlwayzAire Tough Guard Quilted Topper Air Mattress is an excellent choice. It has a removable quilted top for added comfort that can be easily washed, along with a USB charging port for overnight device charging and a convenient night light.

In our testing, we were pleasantly surprised by how comfortable this air mattress was. In fact, it might just be one of the most comfortable ones we’ve ever tried. The quilted topper added a luxurious and cozy touch, helping the mattress maintain its plushness and height all night long.

The setup was straightforward, with a green light indicating when the air pressure was just right and a flashing light signaling the need for more air. There was also a blue light that showed when the secondary pump started to re-inflate the mattress.

Our main issue with the mattress was its lack of portability; the carrying bag has just one strap, and due to the mattress’s weight, it was challenging to carry with only one shoulder. We also had some difficulty packing the mattress back into the bag. However, if you plan to use it mainly at home, it is a comfortable, durable, and impressive choice overall.

Dimensions: Queen | Height: 18 inches | Weight Capacity: 772 pounds

Final Verdict

After reviewing 32 air mattresses, we have chosen the SereneLife SLABFL60 Air Mattress as our top pick. This model excels with its customizable firmness settings and a built-in pump that maintains continuous inflation. For those who prefer additional lumbar support, we suggest the Simmons Lumbar Firm Full Tri-Zone Air Mattress due to its distinctive, supportive design. 

Our Testing Process

To determine the best air mattresses, we tested 32 different models, assessing their ease of setup, comfort, durability, and overall value.

We began by timing how long it took to inflate the mattress, then recorded the total setup time once fully inflated. We also assessed the mattress’s firmness by pressing down and checking for minimal sinkage. Additionally, we used a decibel meter to measure the noise level of the pump during inflation.

Next, we placed a fitted sheet on the mattress and lay down to assess its comfort and support. For queen-size models, two testers tried it together, evaluating the available space and whether the mattress was comfortable, supportive, or noisy when one person moved. After 10 minutes of testing, we removed the sheet and measured the mattress height to check for air loss.

To test its durability, we used a pet brush to gently press on the top and side of the mattress to check its resistance to punctures. We then recorded the time it took for the mattress to fully deflate. Afterward, we folded it up and tested how easily it fit back into its carrying case, if provided, and assessed its portability by walking around with it.

Finally, we inflated the mattress one more time and recorded its height.

We selected the top performers for additional testing over a six-month period and will continue updating this article as we gather long-term data.

Additional Air Mattress Options to Explore

Insta-Bed Raised Air Mattress With NeverFlat Pump: This air mattress offers adjustable firmness settings, and we loved how it kept its height consistently, no matter the firmness level. Unfortunately, it did lose some air over the course of the night, and we struggled with fitting it back into the carrying case.

Beautyrest Lumbar Support Air Mattress: This mattress features horizontal air pockets for added midsection support, along with internal tensioners to help with back support. The downside was the rather loud pump, and its bulky size made it difficult to carry around.

A Pro's Guide to Buying the Best Air Mattress

Size

The right air mattress size depends on who will be using it. A twin mattress might work well for an individual or child, while a full or queen size is better suited for two people. A full or queen mattress is definitely more versatile than a twin, so we suggest going for one of those sizes. If you’re purchasing an air mattress for guests at your home, make sure to check if it will fit comfortably in the designated space.

Besides size, the height of the mattress is also a key factor. A raised mattress often feels more like a traditional bed and can help reduce movement if you’re sharing it. However, remember that the taller the mattress, the longer it will take to inflate and deflate (though the difference is usually minimal).

Features

While many air mattresses offer basic functionality, some come with additional features that improve your sleep experience. One of the most common extras is a built-in pump, which makes inflating and deflating much more convenient (all of our recommended options include this feature).

Some air mattresses include features designed to enhance comfort, such as a pillow top or raised pockets for added support (like the Simmons Lumbar Firm Full Tri-Zone Air Mattress). Others offer a flocked, non-slip surface that helps keep sheets in place, and adjustable firmness levels to suit different sleeping preferences. If you plan on traveling with your mattress, look for one with a carrying bag, ideally featuring a handle or strap for easy transport.

In our tests, the standout feature was the constant pump in our top pick, the SereneLife Air Mattress. This pump continuously inflates the mattress to maintain the perfect firmness level, so you won’t have to worry about manually reinflating it during the night.

Common Questions You May Have

How can you make an air mattress feel more like a traditional bed?

While an air mattress may never completely replicate the feel of a standard foam or spring mattress, there are a few tricks to make it closer to the real thing. You can raise it (literally) by placing it on a platform or box spring, or add a memory foam topper to make it more bed-like.

The key element here is the bedding. Add your favorite sheet set, a soft comforter, and luxurious pillows to ensure both you and your guests enjoy maximum comfort.

How long will an air mattress last?

The lifespan of an air mattress depends on how often it's used and how well it’s maintained. A mattress that’s regularly used can last anywhere from two to four years, depending on its build and quality. On the other hand, if used less frequently, it may last between five and eight years.

If your air mattress is showing signs of wear, such as leaking air, hissing sounds, or constantly needing to be re-inflated, it may be time for a replacement. Additionally, if the surface is visibly worn out or the mattress seems to be losing its shape, leading to discomfort, it’s probably a good idea to replace it.

Trust Us

This article was written by Jamie Fischer, a writer for Mytour. Having spent many nights on air mattresses during sleepovers in her youth, Jamie knows exactly what makes an air mattress truly comfortable. For this list, Mytour tested 32 models, both in our lab and in real-life situations, assessing their ease of setup, comfort level, durability, and overall value for the price.