The 5 Best Bed Frames in 2026
We tested the best bed frames for stability, support, design, value, and ease of setup. Here are the results.
- We chose the Saatva Santorini Platform Bed Frame as our Best Bed Frame Overall. It’s made with high-quality materials and backed by the longest warranty on this list. It also includes free in-home delivery and setup.
- The bed frames in this review cost $499–$1,995.
- Bed frames come in many styles. Platform bed frames can support a mattress without the need for a box spring.
- Bed frames require varying degrees of assembly. If putting one together on your own is daunting, look for brands that offer white-glove delivery.
NCOA supports everyone’s right to age well. So we take the time to research, test, and recommend products that can help you live a healthier life. We’ve spent more than 100 hours researching and testing bed frames to give you the most accurate product reviews. To find the best bed frames, we:
- Consulted sleep specialists, such as doctors, occupational therapists, and physical therapists, for guidance on choosing a good bed frame
- Put more than 12 models through a series of 10 different tests at our in-house lab
- Mystery-shopped more than 40 brands
- Surveyed more than 2,000 older adults on their sleep quality
- Interviewed experts on the importance of good sleep for older adults
- Worked with older adult testers to evaluate bed frames and get their opinion
- Read thousands of verified customer reviews
We’re constantly testing new bed frames and sleep products to give you the most accurate and up-to-date recommendations. Read more about our sleep accessories review methodology.
The right bed frame can make a big difference in how your bedroom looks and how well it supports your mattress. That’s important because even the best mattress needs a proper foundation. Bed frames come in many styles, including adjustable bases and platform frames that support a mattress without a box spring.
We tested a range of bed frames and bases for support, ease of setup, design, and overall value. The Saatva Santorini Platform Bed Frame earned high scores and our top spot. But we also found strong options for different needs and bedroom styles. Read on to see the results.
Saatva Santorini Platform Bed Frame
A high-end, upholstered wooden frame that's well-made and backed with great customer service.
DreamCloud Claremont Bed Frame
This upholstered bed frame performed as well as many premium models but at a much lower price.
Nectar Bamboo Platform Bed Frame
A durable wooden bed frame with a low profile.
Best bed frames in 2026
- Saatva Santorini Platform Bed Frame: Best Overall
- DreamCloud Claremont: Best Affordable Bed Frame
- Nectar Bamboo Platform Bed Frame: Best Platform Bed Frame
- Nectar Premier Adjustable Base: Best Adjustable Bed Frame
- Saatva Calais Bed Frame: Best Upholstered Bed Frame
The best bed frames compared
| Comparison Features | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Score (out of 10)* | 9 |
9.5 |
9.6 |
8.9 |
9.3 |
| Material | Upholstered wood |
Upholstered wood, fiberboard, and metal |
Bamboo |
Upholstered steel |
Upholstered wood |
| Best for | Overall |
Affordable |
Platform |
Adjustable |
Upholstered |
| Trial period (nights) | 365 |
60 |
60 |
60 |
365 |
*Ratings reflect a brand's overall offering; the best overall pick doesn't necessarily have the highest score
How we tested to find the best bed frames
Here are some of the key qualities we tested for to find the best bed frames:
Saatva Santorini Platform Bed Frame: Best Bed Frame Overall
We chose the Saatva Santorini as our top pick. It has a sturdy construction, premium upholstery, and thoughtful designer details. Saatva is also the only brand on this list to offer free white-glove delivery and a lifetime warranty on its bed frames.
- Saatva Mattress Review
- Made from sustainable materials
- Has reinforced slats so it can be used without a box spring or foundation
- Choice of velvet, linen, or bouclé upholstery
- Materials: Upholstered wood
- Trial period: 365 nights
- Warranty: Lifetime
Pros
- Sturdy, stable construction
- 15-minute assembly
- Long trial period and lifetime warranty
- Free white-glove delivery
Cons
- One of the more expensive options we tested
- Headboard costs extra
- Heavier mattresses may require extra support
- There is a $99 fee for returns
DreamCloud Claremont: Best Affordable Bed Frame
The DreamCloud Claremont combines a plush upholstered headboard with a stylish mid-century design. It feels sturdy and costs less than many comparable frames.
- DreamCloud Mattress Review
- Stylish mid-century design
- No box spring needed
- Plush, comfortable padded headboard
- Materials: Upholstered wood, fiberboard, and metal
- Trial period: 60 nights
- Warranty: 2 years
Pros
- Excellent value
- Plush, upholstered headboard included
- Solid and secure once assembled
- Strong value for the price
Cons
- Assembly takes about 30 minutes and requires some tools
- Difficult for one person to move
- Slats are relatively narrow
- White-glove delivery costs extra
Nectar Bamboo Core Platform Bed Frame: Best Platform Bed Frame
We liked the Nectar Bamboo Core Platform Bed Frame for its solid bamboo construction, low-profile design, and simple, tool-free assembly. It’s a solid value that delivers high-quality materials for a reasonable price.
- Nectar Mattress Review
- Optional wooden or upholstered headboards
- Low-profile design needs no box spring
- Solid, premium-feeling bamboo construction
- Materials: Bamboo
- Trial period: 60 nights
- Warranty: 2 years
Pros
- Solid and durable bamboo construction
- No tools needed for assembly
- Sleek, low-profile design
- Strong value
Cons
- Two people recommended for assembly
- Boxes can be heavy to move
- Headboard costs extra
- Short trial period and warranty
Nectar Premier Adjustable Base: Best Adjustable Bed Frame
The Nectar Premier Adjustable Base was our top pick for Best Adjustable Bed, so it makes sense that it won here, too. It combines smooth, quiet adjustments with useful features like massage and USB ports at a competitive price.
- Nectar Adjustable Base Review
- Can adjust head and foot of bed separately
- Adjustable height
- Three massage intensity levels and other advanced features
- Materials: Upholstered steel
- Trial period: 60 nights
- Warranty: 2 years
Pros
- App or wireless remote to control
- Under-bed lighting
- Three massage intensity levels
- Competitive price
Cons
- Trial and warranty are shorter than some competitors
- Supports up to 850 pounds
- No headboard or footboard
- Must be near an outlet
Saatva Calais Bed Frame: Best Upholstered Bed Frame
We chose the Saatva Calais Bed Frame for its high-quality materials, plush upholstery, and elegant headboard and footboard design. It earned our top scores for materials and assembly. Its fully upholstered back gives it a polished look from every angle.
- Saatva Mattress Review
- Comfortable padded headboard and footboard
- Sturdy hardwood and reinforced construction
- Choice of linen or velvet upholstery
- Materials: Upholstered wood
- Trial period: 365 nights
- Warranty: Lifetime
Pros
- Headboard and footboard are upholstered on both sides
- Constructed with quality sustainable materials
- Free white-glove delivery and assembly included
- Long trial period and warranty
Cons
- Highest priced option in our roundup
- Heavy pieces make self-assembly difficult
- High profile may not suit everyone
What makes a good bed frame?
A good bed frame should do more than look nice. “The primary function of a bed frame is that it supports the mattress,” said Swati Goorha, principal interior designer of Swati Goorha Designs in New York and New Jersey. “By placing the mattress on top of the frame, you are able to elevate the mattress from the ground, which will help with airflow, as well as provide stability when entering or exiting the bed. As far as aesthetics go, the bed frame sets the size and proportions of your room and focuses your eye on where you want it to be.”
For those reasons, a good quality bed frame is defined by how sturdy and well-made it is, as well as how it looks. Goorha said solid wood and quality metal can both make excellent bed frames. Upholstered frames should also have a strong inner structure and durable fabric. Some mattresses are heavy, so make sure the frame you choose can support the mattress and the people using it.
The right bed base also depends on your mattress. A platform bed frame uses a solid base or slats and does not need a box spring, but always check your mattress maker’s rules for support and slat spacing. Some latex mattresses require a flat surface for support. Once you meet these criteria, consider a bed frame size and style that fits your bedroom’s decor.
How to choose a bed frame
When choosing a bed frame, start with your mattress. The frame needs to support your mattress properly. So make sure whatever you choose follows the mattress maker’s rules for slat spacing and support. Some latex mattresses, for instance, are very heavy and require a flat foundation or bunkie board. Some platform bed frames may not need a box spring. Always check your mattress requirements first. Not doing so can sometimes void a mattress warranty. Some other things to look for:
- Sturdy materials. Strong joints, center support, and quality construction matter more than looks alone. “I want to know if my bed is going to stay put—that it has solid joints and in the right place is some kind of middle support for the mattress,” said Kanika Bakshi Khurana, principal interior designer and founder of Kanika Design in San Francisco. Solid wood and well-made metal can both be good choices.
- Total size. Don’t measure only the mattress. “When selecting a bed, I always recommend measuring all four sides of the frame, including the headboard, to ensure that you get the total length of the frame,” Khurana said. A large headboard or rails that stick out can take up more space than you might expect. This is especially important in a smaller bedroom. Make sure the bed does not block walkways or create hard-to-see obstacles. Goorha says there should be “plenty of circulation around the frame” to help prevent falls.
- A comfortable bed height. Think about how high the bed will be once the frame, foundation, and mattress are combined. “For those who have limited mobility, the bed height is very important,” Goorha said. She recommended making sure the person using it can easily move from sitting on the edge of the bed to standing. Also notice whether the bed frame, including a headboard or footboard, has any projecting edges or corners. These could create a tripping hazard. Assess safety and accessibility, especially if you have a health condition that makes getting in and out of bed difficult.
- Choose features that fit your needs. Think about whether you want a bed frame with storage, a headboard, or a particular style. The best adjustable bases, while not technically bed frames, can help people with mobility issues. The best bed frame for you should fit your mattress, room, comfort, and daily needs.
How much do the best bed frames cost?
The best bed frames in this review cost $499–$1,995. Prices vary based on whether a headboard is included, materials, brand reputation, quality, and other factors.
| Comparison Features | Saatva Santorini Platform Bed Frame |
DreamCloud Claremont |
Nectar Bamboo Platform Bed Frame |
Nectar Premier Adjustable Base |
Saatva Calais Bed Frame |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost for a queen* | $1,595 |
$499 |
$699 |
$749 |
$1,995 |
| Shipping costs | Free |
Free |
Free |
Free |
Free |
| White-glove delivery | Free |
$199 |
$199 |
$199 |
Free |
| Warranty length | Lifetime |
2 years |
2 years |
2 years |
Lifetime |
| Return fees | $99 |
None |
None |
None |
$99 |
*Most brands run frequent or ongoing promotions. Actual sale prices are often lower and may change often.
Frequently asked questions
Who makes the best quality bed frames?
Several brands make well-built bed frames, including Saatva and other established mattress and furniture brands. Look for sturdy materials, strong joints, and a good warranty.
What type of bed frame is the most sturdy?
A solid platform bed frame with strong joints and center support is generally a sturdy choice. Metal and solid wood frames can both provide good support when they are well made.
Are solid bed bases better than slats?
Not necessarily. Solid bases offer a firm, even surface. But well-spaced slats can also provide strong support and allow more airflow around the mattress. It also depends on what kind of mattress you have.
Which bed frame lasts the longest?
A well-made wooden or metal bed frame with strong joints and durable materials can last for many years.
Questions? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org.
