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Helix Elite Mattress Review – Test Lab Ratings
Lauren Fountain
Senior Product Editor
Lauren is a Certified Sleep Science Coach with extensive experience researching and testing a wide variety of sleep products.
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Learn About The Editorial TeamSleep Foundation
Product Research Methodology: Our Process
Our team at Sleep Foundation conducts extensive hands-on tests for each mattress to provide you with the most reliable, data-driven recommendations and reviews. Below are key guidelines that inform our testing methodology:
- Our testers lie on the surface of each mattress to evaluate factors such as contouring and support. We also use specialized tools to measure performance criteria like pressure relief, heat retention, and motion isolation.
- We test each mattress using various sleep positions to observe whether a mattress is better suited for side, back, or stomach sleeping. We roll around the surface and sit on the edges to gauge ease of movement and perimeter support.
- We have tested hundreds of mattresses and bring years of experience in the mattress industry to the test lab. Our testing team covers a wide range of sleep preferences, sleep positions, and body types. This helps us represent as many sleeper types as possible in our reviews.
27% off mattresses + 2 free pillows & free bedding bundle with Luxe or Elite mattress purchase. Use code: SF27
Price Range: $2,498 – $4,498
Mattress Type: Hybrid
Firmness Options: Soft (3), Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7), Firm (8)
Ratings Summary
Motion Isolation
7.5/10
Edge Support
7/10
Temperature Control
7/10
Ease of Movement
6.5/10
Off Gassing
7.5/10
Pressure Relief
7.5/10
Pros & Cons:
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Various designs for different sleeping positions and body types
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Available in multiple firmness options
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Higher price-point than the average hybrid
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Deep comfort systems may hinder movement across the surface
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16-inch profile requires deep-pocket fitted sheet
Helix is a mattress-in-a-box brand that specializes in hybrid models designed for people based on their weight and preferred sleep position. The Elite line is Helix’s newest collection, and consists of seven luxury mattresses. Each Elite model is constructed with a Euro-top containing foam and microcoil comfort layers, a support core with zoned pocketed coils, and a cooling GlacioTex Elite fabric cover.
Each model in the Elite Collection has a firmness level that corresponds to number ratings on our 10-point scale. The Sunset Elite (3), Midnight Elite (6), and Twilight Elite (7) are designed with side sleepers in mind, and the Moonlight Elite (4), Dusk Elite (6), and Dawn Elite (8) cater to back and stomach sleepers. Lastly, the Plus Elite (7) is designed for sleepers who weigh more than 230 pounds regardless of sleep position — though our tests show this model best serves side sleepers in its target weight range.
Helix also offers the budget-friendly standard Helix collection and the Helix Luxe collection, which carries mid-range price-points. Another model, the Helix Plus, is geared toward sleepers who weigh more than 230 pounds, while the Helix Kids is intended for children up to age 12. In addition, the company sells sleep accessories such as pillows, sheets, adjustable beds, and weighted blankets.
We’ll take a close look at all seven Helix Elite mattresses, comparing their construction, pricing, and performance ratings based on our in-house testing.
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Sleeping Style and Body Weight
Helix Dawn Elite
Side Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
4/10
130-230 lbs
5.5/10
Above 230 lbs
5.5/10
Back Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
5.5/10
130-230 lbs
8.5/10
Above 230 lbs
10/10
Stomach Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
5.5/10
130-230 lbs
10/10
Above 230 lbs
10/10
Helix Dusk Elite
Side Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
7/10
130-230 lbs
10/10
Above 230 lbs
5.5/10
Back Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
7/10
130-230 lbs
8.5/10
Above 230 lbs
5.5/10
Stomach Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
8.5/10
130-230 lbs
5.5/10
Above 230 lbs
5.5/10
Helix Midnight Elite
Side Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
8.5/10
130-230 lbs
10/10
Above 230 lbs
8.5/10
Back Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
8/10
130-230 lbs
9.5/10
Above 230 lbs
8/10
Stomach Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
6.5/10
130-230 lbs
8/10
Above 230 lbs
6.5/10
Helix Moonlight Elite
Side Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
8.5/10
130-230 lbs
5.5/10
Above 230 lbs
4/10
Back Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
7/10
130-230 lbs
4/10
Above 230 lbs
4/10
Stomach Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
5.5/10
130-230 lbs
4/10
Above 230 lbs
4/10
Helix Sunset Elite
Side Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
7/10
130-230 lbs
5.5/10
Above 230 lbs
4/10
Back Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
5.5/10
130-230 lbs
4/10
Above 230 lbs
4/10
Stomach Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
4/10
130-230 lbs
4/10
Above 230 lbs
4/10
Helix Twilight Elite
Side Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
5.5/10
130-230 lbs
7/10
Above 230 lbs
10/10
Back Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
7/10
130-230 lbs
8.5/10
Above 230 lbs
10/10
Stomach Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
7/10
130-230 lbs
10/10
Above 230 lbs
8.5/10
Helix Plus Elite
Side Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
6/10
130-230 lbs
8/10
Above 230 lbs
6.5/10
Back Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
7.5/10
130-230 lbs
5.5/10
Above 230 lbs
4/10
Stomach Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
7.5/10
130-230 lbs
5.5/10
Above 230 lbs
4.5/10
Side Sleepers
Side sleepers tend to prefer softer, more adaptive mattresses that cushion the shoulders and hips. Both areas are prone to pressure buildup when you lie in the side position, so this extra padding can alleviate sore spots. That said, side sleepers also need support to ensure even alignment.
Our side sleepers weighing less than 130 pounds awarded their highest ratings to the Moonlight Elite and Sunset Elite. Both contour deeply to create a cradling effect that many side sleepers in this weight range find comfortable. Those between 130 and 230 pounds preferred the balanced designs of the Dusk Elite and Moonlight Elite. For side sleepers over 230 pounds, the Dawn Elite and Twilight Elite provided enough reinforcement to minimize sinkage along the midsection and maintain an even surface.
The Plus Elite builds on the standard Plus design and is intended for people who weigh more than 230 pounds. Our tests show the mattress is particularly well suited for side sleepers in this weight range — testers over 230 pounds appreciated the deep contouring around their shoulders and hips, as well as the zoned support for their midsections.
Back Sleepers
For most back sleepers, the ideal mattress gently contours the body while maintaining even support between the shoulders and hips. Many people who use this position prefer mattresses with zoned support systems that feel firmer around the midsection and softer elsewhere. All seven Elite mattresses have zoned coil systems, so our back sleepers were largely impressed with this collection — though each tester’s favorite models depended largely on their body type.
The Midnight Elite was the most popular model among back sleepers under 130 pounds. These testers enjoyed the moderate cushioning and sturdy medium firm support. Back sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds also felt comfortable on the Midnight Elite, as well as the Dawn Elite, Dusk Elite, and Twilight Elite. Those weighing more than 230 pounds sank a bit on most of the Elite models, but received sufficient support from the Dawn Elite and Twilight Elite.
Although the Plus Elite was designed for people who weigh more than 230 pounds, our testing team found that back sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds will probably find the mattress more comfortable. The thick foam layers and gentle contouring is better suited to mid-weight sleepers, and those who weigh more may sink a bit too much.
Stomach Sleepers
A key to sleeping comfortably on your stomach is finding a mattress that offers ample pushback around the midsection. Lying face-down on an overly soft model can result in excessive sinkage. Since all seven Elite models feature thick, plush foam layers in their comfort systems, some stomach sleepers may not feel comfortable on any of these mattresses.
Our stomach sleepers weighing less than 130 pounds were most impressed with the Dusk Elite and Midnight Elite. These models provided enough cushioning to alleviate pressure without sagging beneath our testers’ weight. Stomach sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds enjoyed the extra support of the Dawn Elite and Twilight Elite. These models also earned the most favorable ratings among our stomach sleepers over 230 pounds.
Stomach sleepers on our team weighing less than 230 pounds gave the Plus Elite very high marks. Ratings declined with heavier weight groups. Although the mattress was designed for those weighing more than 230 pounds, the thick foam layers and deep contouring may lead to excessive sinkage for people who sleep face-down.
Mattress Performance
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Motion Isolation
7.5/10
Helix Dawn Elite: 4 / 10
Helix Dusk Elite: 8 / 10
Helix Midnight Elite: 8 / 10
Helix Moonlight Elite: 10 / 10
Helix Plus Elite: 8 / 10
Helix Sunset Elite: 10 / 10
Helix Twilight Elite: 4 / 10
Our testers found the softer models in the Elite mattress line provided the best motion isolation. We awarded the highest marks to the Moonlight Elite and Sunset Elite, though the Dusk Elite and Midnight Elite also performed well in this category. The Plus Elite was another standout performer for motion isolation. Its foam and microcoil layers absorb movement well, and should help couples get the rest they need.
We felt more motion transfer on the Dawn Elite and Twilight Elite, which are the firmest and most responsive mattresses in the collection. These models may be problematic if you or a sleep partner frequently change sleep positions or toss and turn during the night, as even slight movements can generate motion transfer that ripples to the other side of the bed.
Pressure Relief
7.5/10
Helix Dawn Elite: 4 / 10
Helix Dusk Elite: 8 / 10
Helix Midnight Elite: 8 / 10
Helix Moonlight Elite: 10 / 10
Helix Plus Elite: 8 / 10
Helix Sunset Elite: 10 / 10
Helix Twilight Elite: 4 / 10
Softer and more adaptive mattresses are typically most effective at alleviating pressure points, though body type also plays a role. During pressure relief tests, our team members weighing up to 230 pounds were very impressed with the Moonlight Elite and Sunset Elite. These are the two softest models in the collection, and both contour closely to the spine and reduce pressure in sensitive areas like the shoulders and hips.
People who weigh more than 230 pounds will likely sink too deeply into a softer mattress. This can create — rather than reduce — pressure in the shoulders and lower back. Testers weighing more than 230 pounds experienced the best pressure relief on the Dusk Elite and Midnight Elite models. Both models are medium firm, offering a nice balance of cushioning and support that benefits sleepers in this weight range.
Our tests show the Plus Elite is most effective at reducing pressure buildup for side sleepers over 230 pounds, back sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds, and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds — though ratings for this model were fairly positive across the board.
Temperature Control
7/10
Helix Dawn Elite: 8 / 10
Helix Dusk Elite: 8 / 10
Helix Midnight Elite: 6 / 10
Helix Moonlight Elite: 6 / 10
Helix Plus Elite: 7 / 10
Helix Sunset Elite: 6 / 10
Helix Twilight Elite: 8 / 10
Heat-dissipating covers and steady air circulation throughout the coil layers allow the Elite mattresses to sleep cool for most people. The strongest performers were the Dawn Elite, Dusk Elite, and Twilight Elite. These are the firmest models in the collection, so you’re less likely to sink into the mattress and lose surface airflow in the process. The Plus Elite also sleeps fairly cool thanks to its microcoil comfort layers, which promote steady airflow near the mattress surface.
Our tests have shown hybrids typically perform well when it comes to regulating temperature. Hybrids with foam layers trap more heat than those with latex, but Elite models get a cooling boost due to airflow through the microcoil layers. As our testers found, extra air circulation near the surface makes a noticeable difference in how cool the bed feels.
Edge Support
7/10
Helix Dawn Elite: 10 / 10
Helix Dusk Elite: 6 / 10
Helix Midnight Elite: 6 / 10
Helix Moonlight Elite: 6 / 10
Helix Plus Elite: 6 / 10
Helix Sunset Elite: 4 / 10
Helix Twilight Elite: 10 / 10
Results varied considerably from model to model during our edge support tests. All seven Elite mattresses feature reinforced perimeter coils intended to push back against your weight and reduce sinkage along the edges, but our testers noted that firmness level plays a major role.
The Dawn Elite and Twilight Elite — the two firmest mattresses in the collection — earned our highest ratings for edge support. Most testers felt little to no sinkage when sitting or lying along the perimeters of these mattresses.
The Dusk Elite, Midnight Elite, and Moonlight Elite provided some pushback, but we still noticed a moderate amount of compression that made the edges feel unstable. The same was true for the Plus Elite, which feels fairly secure along the perimeter but may sink a bit when you get in and out of bed. We found the Sunset Elite’s edge support was fair at best.
Ease of Movement
6.5/10
Helix Dawn Elite: 8 / 10
Helix Dusk Elite: 6 / 10
Helix Midnight Elite: 8 / 10
Helix Moonlight Elite: 6 / 10
Helix Plus Elite: 7 / 10
Helix Sunset Elite: 4 / 10
Helix Twilight Elite: 8 / 10
We rate mattresses for ease of movement based on how much sinkage or resistance we encounter when getting into bed and changing sleep positions. Among standard Elite models, the Dawn Elite, Midnight Elite, and Twilight Elite earned the highest ratings. Since these are the three firmest mattresses in the standard collection, their foam layers are less likely to sink beneath your weight and cause you to feel stuck in the surface.
The Plus Elite was also fairly easy to move across for our testing team — the microcoil comfort layers provide just enough bounce to keep the surface responsive without making the mattress feel too stiff or springy when you’re lying down.
This performance category is important for combination sleepers, people who frequently toss and turn, those with medical conditions requiring trips to the bathroom in the middle of the night, and anyone else who often shifts their bodies while they sleep. Ease of movement can also impact how a mattress feels during sex. Firmer, more responsive beds tend to earn the highest marks.
Off-Gassing
7.5/10
Helix Dawn Elite: 8 / 10
Helix Dusk Elite: 8 / 10
Helix Midnight Elite: 8 / 10
Helix Moonlight Elite: 6 / 10
Helix Plus Elite: 7 / 10
Helix Sunset Elite: 6 / 10
Helix Twilight Elite: 8 / 10
Off-gassing refers to chemical smells you may notice after unboxing a new mattress. These odors come from volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by synthetic foam. Although off-gassing is temporary, the smells can be fairly strong and may interfere with sleep quality for the first few nights.
All seven Elite models contain multiple foam layers, but none of them produced too much off-gassing odor. This is common with hybrid models because their coil support cores circulate air and flush out unwanted smells rather quickly. Since Elite mattresses contain extra coil layers in their comfort systems, the odors dissipate faster than average. Even so, you may want to consider airing out your Elite model in a well-ventilated room for at least 24 hours before sleeping on it.
Helix Elite Mattress Coupon
Sleep Foundation Special Offer
27% off mattresses + 2 free pillows & free bedding bundle with Luxe or Elite mattress purchase. Use code: SF27
Helix Elite Mattress Review Breakdown
All seven Helix Elite mattresses share a similar Euro-top hybrid design, but slight differences give each model a unique feel and firmness level.
The Dawn Elite, Dusk Elite, and Moonlight Elite each begin with a polyfoam top layer, followed by layers of microcoils, polyfoam, and microcoils in that order. These models contour gently and feel somewhat responsive.
Midnight Elite, Sunset Elite, and Twilight Elite models feature the same design, except they use memory foam instead of polyfoam in the topmost layers. An additional one to two memory foam layers rest beneath the microcoils, with the number of layers varying by model. Since these mattresses contain memory foam, they offer closer contouring compared to the other three standard Elite models. The Plus Elite also contains a top layer of memory foam, followed by microcoil and polyfoam comfort layers.
Every Elite mattress features a transitional layer of dense polyfoam. This material acts as a buffer between the comfort system and support core, and helps prevent you from sinking excessively. Pocketed coils and base foam make up the support core. The 8-inch coils are divided into three zones based on gauge, or thickness, to ensure extra reinforcement for the chest, stomach, and hips. Thicker coils also line the perimeter to provide strong edge support.
Elite mattress covers are composed of GlacioTex Elite, a proprietary fabric woven with phase change material engineered to dissipate body heat. All seven models measure 16 inches thick. They are considered high-profile beds, so you’ll need a deep-pocket fitted sheet.
| Mattress | Firmness | Comfort Layers | Support Core | Cover |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Helix Dawn Elite Mattress | Firm (8) | Polyfoam Microcoils Polyfoam Microcoils Polyfoam Polyfoam | 8″ Pocketed Coils (3-Zone, Reinforced Perimeter) High-Density Polyfoam | GlacioTex Elite Cooling Fabric (Euro-Top) |
| Helix Dusk Elite Mattress | Medium Firm (6) | Polyfoam Microcoils Polyfoam Microcoils Polyfoam Polyfoam | 8″ Pocketed Coils (3-Zone, Reinforced Perimeter) High-Density Polyfoam | GlacioTex Elite Cooling Fabric (Euro-Top) |
| Helix Midnight Elite Mattress | Medium Firm (6) | Memory Foam Microcoils Memory Foam Microcoils Polyfoam Polyfoam | 8″ Pocketed Coils (3-Zone, Reinforced Perimeter) High-Density Polyfoam | GlacioTex Elite Cooling Fabric (Euro-Top) |
| Helix Moonlight Elite Mattress | Medium Soft (4) | Polyfoam Microcoils Polyfoam Microcoils Polyfoam Polyfoam | 8″ Pocketed Coils (3-Zone, Reinforced Perimeter) High-Density Polyfoam | GlacioTex Elite Cooling Fabric (Euro-Top) |
| Helix Plus Elite Mattress | Medium Firm (6) | Memory Foam Microcoils Polyfoam Microcoils Polyfoam Polyfoam | 8″ Pocketed Coils (3-Zone, Reinforced Perimeter) High-Density Polyfoam | GlacioTex Elite Cooling Fabric (Euro-Top) |
| Helix Sunset Elite Mattress | Soft (3) | Memory Foam (Copper Gel-Infused) Microcoils Memory Foam Microcoils Memory Foam Polyfoam | 8″ Pocketed Coils (3-Zone, Reinforced Perimeter) High-Density Polyfoam | GlacioTex Elite Cooling Fabric (Euro-Top) |
| Helix Twilight Elite Mattress | Firm (7) | Memory Foam (Copper Gel-Infused) Microcoils Polyfoam Microcoils Memory Foam Polyfoam | 8″ Pocketed Coils (3-Zone, Reinforced Perimeter) High-Density Polyfoam | GlacioTex Elite Cooling Fabric (Euro-Top) |
Mattress Prices and Sizing
The Helix Elite carries the same sticker price across all models in the lineup, with price varying by size. These mattresses are considered luxury hybrids, so they cost significantly more than the average hybrid on the market today. The Elite line is also Helix’s most expensive mattress collection. Standard Helix models are considered budget-friendly, and Helix Luxe models are considered mid-range in terms of price-point. Military personnel, first responders, students, and teachers receive a 25% discount.
Elite mattresses are sold in all six standard mattress sizes. Additional sizes such as full XL and split king are not available. Due to their high profiles, these mattresses are much heavier than average. Queen models weigh about 172 pounds. Please note the Plus Elite shares the same price in all sizes as standard Elite models.
| Sizes | Dimensions | Height | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Twin | 39” x 75” | 16” | 102 lbs. | $1,874 |
| Twin XL | 39” 80” | 16” | 111 lbs. | $2,062 |
| Full | 54” x 75” | 16” | 143 lbs. | $2,483 |
| Queen | 60” x 80” | 16” | 172 lbs. | $2,812 |
| King | 76” x 80” | 16” | 217 lbs. | $3,374 |
| California King | 72” x 84” | 16” | 216 lbs. | $3,374 |
Sleep Foundation Special Offer
27% off mattresses + 2 free pillows & free bedding bundle with Luxe or Elite mattress purchase. Use code: SF27
Trial, Warranty, and Shipping Policies
Helix Elite mattresses are exclusively sold on Helix’s website. These models are not available through third-party retailers, and Helix does not operate any brick-and-mortar stores.
Helix offers free ground delivery to customers in the contiguous U.S. Orders for Alaska and Hawaii incur additional shipping fees. Your Elite mattress is shipped in two boxes, which are delivered to your doorstep. Canadian customers pay a flat fee of $250 per mattress, plus custom taxes.
Helix provides old mattress removal free of charge solely to customers in California, in accordance with state laws. The company does not offer White Glove delivery.
Your Helix Elite comes with a 100-night sleep trial. You must sleep on the mattress for at least 30 nights before you can initiate a free return.
If you are generally satisfied with your mattress but it feels slightly too soft or too firm, Helix will send you a mattress topper at no extra cost during the trial period. You may still return a mattress during the sleep trial even if you’ve received a free topper.
Each Elite mattress is backed by a 15-year manufacturer’s warranty. The warranty is completely non-prorated, which means Helix covers the cost of replacing or repairing your mattress if it is found to be defective. You will be responsible for paying the round-trip transportation fees.
Defects covered under the warranty include indentations in the surface measuring more than 1 inch, physical flaws that cause foam or coil layers to deteriorate prematurely, and defects with the cover assembly. Other issues are considered normal wear and tear and will not be covered.
Still have questions?
Our product experts have extensive experience testing just about every sleep product on the market. Send an email to [email protected] or call us at (877) 672-8966 with your questions and we’ll help you find exactly what you’re looking for.
Written By
Lauren Fountain, Senior Product Editor
Lauren is a Certified Sleep Science Coach with extensive experience researching and testing a wide variety of sleep products.