Having an air mattress in your bedroom means that you’re almost guaranteed good sleep every night. Not only are they extremely mobile, but they also provide great comfort and peace to your precious slumber. If you are tired from a hard day’s work, then you have the perfect thing to use for resting. Aside from that, there are lots of sleepers who are struggling with getting comfortable at night. Most of them aren’t satisfied with the comfort that their bed can provide, but fortunately, an inflatable air mattress is an available solution for people that are seeking the perfect level of customizable comfort, whether it’s for permanent, temporary, indoor or outdoor use. If you’re in the market for a new one, take a look at our roundup of air mattress reviews further below and choose one from the top 10 for sale in 2022.
Our Favorite Pick
SoundAsleep Dream Series Air Mattress
Finding The Best Air Mattress
Our Top 10 Picks
- SoundAsleep Dream Series – Editor’s Pick
- Insta-Bed Raised – High-Quality Pump
- King Koil – Best For Bad Back
- SoundAsleep Camping Series – Best Outdoor Option
- Lightspeed Outdoors 2-Person – Lightweight and Versatile
- Coleman SupportRest Elite – Best For Everyday Use
- Intex Comfort Plush Elevated Dura-Beam – Best For Heavy People
- Intex Raised Downy – Budget Option
- Serta Raised – Long Warranty
- AeroBed Air Mattress For Kids – Aged 4+
Air Mattress Reviews
SoundAsleep Dream Series
- Editor's Pick
- Amazing build quality
- High list of specifications
- Surprisingly good all-night comfort
The luxurious 19-inch high SoundAsleep Dream Series air mattress is one of the most advanced on the market today. All in the Dream Series range are specially made with ComfortCoil Technology, and in this case, it contains 40 individual coils to provide a flat surface for a single or couple sleepers. It has a 1 click built in pump which allows the user to adjust to the optimal firmness level and can inflate within 4 minutes, and deflate easily too.
Aside from that, it is made of 15 gauge puncture-resistant eco-friendly PVC and waterproof flocked top to make your sleeping surface softer and more comfortable. These high-quality materials help to maintain the good performance of your airbed and also help to retain its shape and firmness, even while holding a weight of up to 500 lbs. It’s also one of the few that come in Twin XL and King sizes too.
There are too many features and details to list, such as the 1-year warranty, integrated cord storage, included carry bag, and sure-grip technology to stop unwanted sliding; the list goes on. With all the features and comfort, it is probably the best air mattress for everyday use in comparison to others of similar price.
- Built-In Pump
- Double-Height
- Twin / Twin XL / Queen
- 1 Year Warranty
Insta-Bed Raised
- Industry-leading neverFLAT pump
- Good temp/perm sleeping solution
- Included carry bag for travel/storage
- Perfect for outdoor and indoor use
The 18″ high Insta-Bed Raised has a suede top and contains 35 circular inner coils for a comfortable and supportive surface. However, its prize feature is the built-in neverFlat™ technology which makes it one of the most reliable and comfortable air mattress on the market. The technology allows for automatically maintaining the pressure throughout the night of your sleep.
Aside from that, the neverFlat™ pump terminates sagging and prevents from losing pressure that is the most common problem of other air beds. The primary power pump helps you to adjust the level of your desired comfort. It also helps the inflation and deflation to be done easily and quickly. As with others that contain this type of pump, it too has an automatic shut-off feature that turns off the primary pump at providing the constant pressure once the bed is completely inflated. This allows you to walk around freely doing other activities whilst it’s inflating.
Overall, the Insta-Bed Raised is possibly another for the top 3 best air bed shortlist; a great product at a great price that would satisfy even the fussiest sleeper. Also, it comes with a 1-year warranty for extra reassurance.
- Built-In Pump
- Double-Height
- Queen Size Only
- 1 Year Warranty
King Koil
- Endorsed by the International Chiropractors Association for proper spinal health
- Full inflation in under 2 minutes
- Also available in Cali King size
Are you looking for an affordable yet luxury, high-spec solution? If so, the King Koil air mattress with built in pump is the perfect option for you.
This one is waterproof, with heavy-duty PVC and full flocking around the sides and top. The composure makes the King Koil an airtight system, thus providing a leak-free bed unlike some similar options around the same price. However, should it sprout a leak, there’s a handy puncture repair kit included. Also, a 1-year warranty is provided for added peace of mind. A wrap and roll storage system is included, which is convenient for both storage and transportation.
The airbed itself has a firm feel and can be inflated or deflated with the touch of a button to adjust comfort. The Enhanced Coil Technology and internal layering supports the body, keeping your spine aligned while asleep. A 120V/210W built-in pump can inflate/deflate within 2 minutes, which is faster than any others featured in our air mattress reviews.
The inflated dimensions measure 80″ x 60″ x 20″ and has a double-height (or raised) design compared to the likes of similar air mattresses such as the SoundAsleep Dream Series or Lightspeed Outdoors.
Overall, the King Koil may not be as cheap as some other air mattresses reviewed here, but the quality is second-to-none, and it’s from a reputable manufacturer so is likely to satisfy even moderate to heavy usage for a number of years.
- Built-In Pump
- Double-Height
- Twin / Queen / Cal King
- 1 Year Warranty
SoundAsleep Camping Series
- Durable PVC construction
- Heavy-duty external rechargeable pump
- Ideal for outdoor use
- Retains inflation for long periods
This low height Queen size air mattress is perfect for those that happen to enjoy overnight outdoor activities with friends, family, or relatives. It is soft yet supportive, and you won’t feel like you are sleeping away from your homely bed because of the comfort that it provides. Probably the best blow up mattress in its range, it is specially made with a ComfortCoil Technology with I-Beam Air Coils, which makes it durable whether used for continual indoor or outdoor activities.
The SoundAsleep Camping Series is supplied with an external rechargeable pump which can fully inflate to size (78 x 60 x 9 inches) within 3 minutes. This particular rechargeable pump can be charged at home via mains or in the car, making it flexible for most needs. The materials came from high-quality products making it reliable for outdoor activities and also making it longer lasting, but for peace of mind additionally comes with a 1-year warranty. Its size is an advantage if you are looking for flexibility since it comes in either Twin or Queen size.
Despite its abundant selling points, it also comes with a very affordable price making it the best camping mattress on the market today.
- External Pump
- Low Height
- Twin / Queen
- 1 Year Warranty
Lightspeed Outdoors
- Abrasion resistant construction
- Phthalate and PVC free air mattress
- Ideal for outdoor use
- Weighs only 6 lbs
The Lightspeed Outdoors phthalate and PVC free blow up mattress is perfect for two people which for low height and affordable price tag manages to provide a deluxe comfort for sleepers. It has a unique stabilizer system which uses 192 independent connectors that connect between the top and bottom layers, (which will support a very heavy 400 lbs which is impressive considering it’s low and flat design).
These aforementioned connectors are key at providing an adjustable firmness level, which, when adjusted, can be tailored from soft to very firm depending on the user requirement. Compared to PVC, the TPU doesn’t stretch, which means minimized movement and disturbances when two people are sleeping in the same bed. The supplied external battery-operated pump makes the adjustments easily and swift, under 3 minutes in fact. This luxurious air mattress is very light (only 6 lbs) and packs up small into the supplied carry bag, which allows you to transport it anywhere in your bedroom or campsite with ease.
Only available in Queen size, the Lightspeed Outdoors 2-person PVC free air mattress measures 79 x 55 x 6.25 inches. Also, there is a handy 1-year limited warranty from the date of purchase. In short, this is another exceptionally good product for 2022 which deserves a thumbs up.
- External Pump
- Low Height
- Queen Size Only
- 1 Year Warranty
Coleman SupportRest Elite
- Antimicrobial treated surface is resistant to odor, mold, mildew and fungus
- The 18" extra tall height keeps you comfortably off the floor
- Only recommended for indoor use
The Coleman SupportRest Elite has a sleeping surface that is made of luxury suede which makes it softer and more plush. It also has a coil system that provides additional comfort to the user as she/he sleeps. It has three-tiered layers which make it higher compared to any other air beds, and similar to a traditional bed.
Being constructed of strong PVC material, the airbed can withstand weights up to 450 lbs, so is perfect for heavy people, plus you don’t need to worry about punctures. Aside from that, it has a unique mains powered built-in electric pump which helps to inflate and deflate easily, reaching max inflation within 4 minutes (which is about the average time for this size and budget).
Though it’s for indoor use only, the package also includes a traveling bag for easy restoring and transportation, patch kit and a user’s manual that gives clear instruction on how to use properly. The dimensions are 78″ x 60″ x 18″ which is slightly smaller than a Queen size.
- Built-In Pump
- Double-Height
- Queen Size Only
- 1 Year Warranty
Intex Comfort Plush Elevated Dura-Beam
- Available in 13/18/22" heights
- Soft flocked surface adds extra comfort
- Amazing durability, stability, and support
- Perfect for heavy people (600 lbs capacity)
The Intex Comfort Plush Elevated Dura-Beam airbed is perfect for home use, whether as a permanent solution or for guests. It is made of a very smart Fiber-Tech construction with a waterproof flocked material which helps to make the entire bed more soft and comfortable. This Fiber-Tech contains thousands of high-strength polyester fibers that can give fantastic comfort, support, and excellent stability. It is also a built-in type with a high-powered electric pump to avoid any hassle from inflation and deflation.
This Queen size inflatable bed is well known for its ability to be fully inflated within approximately 4 and a half minutes, depending on the desired firmness. It is raised 22 inches high from the floor, making it taller than most, and features indented sides to prevent your fitted sheets from slipping away. Intex also includes a duffel bag, which helps to store it efficiently and aids easy transportation.
Compared to other airbeds for sale in the online market the warranty is quite short (90 day warranty, you can purchase a 3 year warranty for $5.99). However, it is more affordable and reliable coming from a trusted specialist in this niche. Hands down, it is undoubtedly one of the top 5 in the best air bed category at the moment.
- Built-In Pump
- Mid/Raised Heights
- Full / Twin / Queen
- 90 Day Warranty
Intex Raised Downy
- Waterproof flocked top
- Vinyl beams provide a sturdy construction
- Feels like sleeping on a standard bed
- Easy to store away and travel with
Like most of the other air mattress reviews here, the Intex Raised Downy is also constructed with two chambers. The lower chamber provides extra firmness and support, while the upper chamber is the mattress. It comes with a carry case, though it’s primary use is most likely going to be indoors as either a permanent or guest bed. It is layered with a waterproof flocking cover, which gives you a comfortable rest and fresh feeling as you sleep the entire night.
The Intex Raised Downy airbed is made with high quality-tested gauges that provide security in whatever type of sleeping position you’re in and can support a whopping 600 lbs. Since it has a built-in high-powered electric pump, it’s effortless to inflate and does the two chambers quickly with just a single press of the switch. It is also easy to adjust if the user isn’t comfortable with the level of the firmness.
This particular model is Queen size (60W x 22H x 80L inches when inflated), but Twin and Full may exist in other variants if required. However, for the money, this purchase is a little gem, which shouldn’t be missed.
- Built-In Pump
- Double-Height
- Queen Size Only
- No Warranty
Serta Raised
- Straightforward quick setup
- Very good support and comfort
- Convenient storage
- Plush, Medium, and Firm settings
The Serta Raised air mattress is one of those premium products which you’ll happily boast about to your friends. Made by a popular household brand name, it contains the same neverFlat™ technology as the Insta-Bed. This means it has two built in pumps that function individually of each other. One pump inflates, while the other exists to eliminate sagging and pressure loss by topping up silently with air whenever required, keeping it inflated during your sleep at night.
It also features an automatic shutdown primary pump which makes it convenient for the user if the air bed is done inflating or deflating; less hassle and less worry. Aside from that, it contains an advanced circular coil support system which provides superior support and comfort, while a durable flocked top exists to prevent your sheet from moving around.
Another one for the best air mattress shortlist, it comes with a 2-year warranty and is available in both Twin and Queen size. In our opinion, the Serta Raised air mattress with neverFlat pump is packed with technology and innovation making it a top pick and great buy.
- Built-In Pump
- Double-Height
- Twin / Queen
- 2 Year Warranty
AeroBed Air Mattress For Kids
- Perfect low-cost solution for kids
- Great comfort and added safety
- Recommended for kids 4 years and older
- Good for sleepovers and excursions
When it comes to choosing for the younger generation, the small and compact AeroBed Air Mattress For Kids weighs in at number one.
At an inflated approximate 50 x 25 x 10″ (minimum) it’s the smallest member of our top 10 air mattress reviews, and is perfect for home use or the great outdoors. It has a heavy-duty PVC construction and a 4-inch high surround which helps keep children from rolling over the edge.
Surprisingly, it’s worth noting that this kids air mattress comes with an external AC handheld pump, a thick washable fitted mattress pad, and a carry bag; all of which is extremely good value for money at this price. Inflation and transportation is convenient especially when travelling to friends and family homes. The pump has an inflation time of less than one minute, and deflation within 15 seconds.
Although it’s designed for kids over the age of 4, it’s not unknown to accommodate adults too. Some petite adults have reported positive experiences when used on the odd occasion. AeroBed claim it can hold up to 300 lbs. Comes with a 1-year warranty.
- External Pump
- Low Height
- Kids Size
- 1 Year Warranty
Air Mattress Buying Guide
What Is An Air Mattress?
An air mattress is literally a low or slightly raised inflatable bed. Known by many other names such as an inflatable mattress, blow up bed, or air bed, they use adjustable pressure for support rather than the traditional spring, memory foam, or latex core. There are usually at least one or two chambers that run throughout the inner cavity, which allows the user to adjust the comfort that they need. It is ideal for people that seek different levels of support as they sleep. Some air mattresses which contain two chambers possess a dual technology that allows two people to adjust their side independently to whichever level of soft or firm they want. Kids love air mattresses too, as it introduces a slightly different experience, especially when traveling or having a sleepover.
Most are made from polyvinyl chloride or PVC; however, many manufacturers are continually looking for improved material to provide the most outstanding comfort and durability, and have come a long way since the invention some years ago. Most owners of some of the best air mattresses have only positive feedback to relay based on their purchases.
Why Should I Use An Air Mattress?
Ultimately all of us are looking for the utmost comfortable slumber as we lay at night. Not only those that are tired from work mentally and physically but also people with any kind of aches and pains are all hoping from added benefits of their purchase as they sleep. However, more specific to the above, some audiences and users would welcome an inflatable air mattress, which we review below:
For Outdoors and Camping
For outdoor activities, the choice selection of sleep surface is usually some kind of portable blow up mattress. Most campers use them due to the small, lightweight, and flexible nature, which forms the basis of this invention. Although sleepers are not in a cozy home bed while enjoying the great outdoors, they can still get good sleep on one of these so they can start their activity full of energy. There are specialized types of inflatable air mattress, which are made especially for outdoor activities. For example, a good choice for a portable air mattress would be a low profile (not raised), can be Twin or Full size, and would most likely have an external pump as opposed to a built-in pump. More on the different types of pumps later.
For Guests Or Traveling
Also known as a guest bed, the most significant thing about air mattresses is the flexible and compact nature in which they exist. In short, you can leave it deflated and packed away in a storage cupboard ready to use as a guest bed whenever your visitors arrive. If it’s an air mattress with built in pump, simply plug in and watch the bed take shape within minutes; some Queen size versions can become fully inflated within 4 minutes when using a mains operated pump. Once your guests leave, you can use the same pump to deflate and pack away again. Alternatively, smaller air beds such as the low profile types are even more mobile, which means if you plan to visit guests, you can take your bed along and inflate when required. This kind of flexibility is perfect for frequent travelers and students too.
Reduce Various Pains
An inflatable air mattress is also ideal for people with certain conditions such as fibromyalgia or sciatica. Due to the customizable support by way of inflating to make it firm, or deflate to soften, there is much-welcomed personalization for those who require pressure point relief.
Cheap Yet Effective
Everyone needs comfort as they sleep, but we also know that good quality comes with the expensive price. Some people can’t afford to have a top of the range luxury memory foam mattress in their bedroom. So, rather than buying a budget innerspring, which is the same price as a top of the range air bed, you’re better off with the latter. Even the best air bed comes in much cheaper than other mattress types; they have similar lifespans and provide more than adequate satisfaction for the money. Once the bedding is in place, its hardly noticeable whether there is a traditional or an inflatable mattress in place.
Maximize Floor Space
Lack of space is something that some of us have to deal with, and beds tend to take up the most floor space than any other piece of furniture. It’s not uncommon for parents to buy a kids air mattress and leave deflated during the day while the room is utilized as a play area, and then inflate before it’s time to sleep. Considering the best air mattress for everyday use on the market right now can be fully inflated via a mains outlet within 4 minutes, this isn’t a huge nightly effort and well worth the spacial benefits.
Motion Isolation
A super active bed partner can create tension at night. Buying the best air mattress within your budget will help a lot since the top rated models can isolate motion between the sleepers due to the dual chamber technology that they possess. An air mattress that features isolated chambers on both sides allows each person to isolate and adjust the level of their ideal firmness level. It’s not a big deal anymore if you don’t like the firmness level of your partner because you can adjust your side. You don’t need to argue with your partner regarding this issue. It can also be done easily. The level can be changed in just a single push of the button provided. And with that, it solves nighttime tension and helps you to avoid morning stress.
How To Choose An Air Mattress
When you’re choosing the best air mattress, there are some common features and characteristics which you should know about and compare against, which we have included in the buying guide below.
What Are The Different Air Mattress Pump Types?
Built-In Pump
One of the most common features or buzz words you’ll come across when choosing an inflatable mattress is the type of pump it comes with; 99% should come with at least one of the two major pump types, which is a built in pump, or an external battery pump. An air mattress with built-in pump is literally a device attached to the interior and controlled from the exterior, that plugs into the mains and when switched on it forces air into the chambers. The pump can also perform the opposite and will deflate too if required. While this type of contraption is usually fitted to the more expensive types, it’s undoubtedly worth paying the extra dollars in the long run.
External Pump
These are common in the smaller and more mobile styles, such as the low profile or Twin size air mattress. External pumps fall into three categories, which are mains, battery, and manually operated. Mains operated are preferred and most powerful, but has it’s limitations when it comes to traveling. Battery operated is required for the likes of a camping mattress, which would typically plug into a car cigarette lighter and draw power for inflation.
A manual pump would often be hand or foot-powered, and is the cheapest and least desirable, though it can be effective in the great outdoors when battery power is unavailable. As you can imagine, requiring an external pump has a direct correlation on the price, so if you’re after a cheap air mattress, this is the type for you. Another thing to remember is that even if it requires an external pump, it may not come supplied and will require purchasing separately.
What Air Mattress Sizes Are There?
Varying Sizes
There are typically only two mattress sizes in the US that are widely available, which are the Twin and Queen size. A Twin is the smaller option measuring at approximately 38 inches wide by 75 inches long. The Queen size is the larger of the two, which measures about 60 inches wide by 80 inches long. Both variations are available in the low and raised designs.
Varying Heights
Height is probably the most important deciding factor for some, as it greatly determines the size, weight, flexibility, and possible usage scenario. Neither is better or more popular than the other as they serve different purposes. For example, the first type we’ll mention is the raised air mattress or sometimes referred to as elevated. This is much taller (approx 18-22 inches) and resembles a traditional bed, therefore offers a great solution for home or permanent use, or a temporary guest bed. The raised is available in both Twin and Queen size options, and will often come with a built in pump.
The second type is known as a low style, which is much shorter in height (approx 6-10 inches). Most people will agree that for visiting friends or outdoor usage a low profile style is preferred due to the smaller, lighter, and flexible nature. However, these often require the use or purchase of an external pump.
Warranty
It’s always good to have a decent warranty when you purchase anything, regardless of price. Consumers shouldn’t have to worry about being left in the lurch when their product fails or if it’s faulty out of the factory.
Most air mattresses will come with some form of warranty, ranging from 30-days up to about 1-year. This is especially important to check when you purchase an air mattress with built in pump. These are mechanical parts, and like anything mechanical it can fail. The same goes for any external pump that is supplied with your purchase.
Additionally, although leaks and defects are unlikely from a good quality airbed, you may experience these (among other build-related issues).
Conclusion
As you can see from our buying guide and review article, there are numerous features and styles of an air mattress. Everything from size, height, and inflating options are a consideration when it comes to choosing one. The type you buy will ultimately depend on your own needs. All of the above reviewed are top picks and come highly recommended for the everyday consumer. Choosing the best inflatable mattress now depends on the shortlist you compose.
Please feel free to comment or email us for any further advice which we may have left out.