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The King Koil Lexie 12-inch foam mattress shines in pressure relief and motion isolation for side sleepers and couples. But does it stack up against top competitors like Nectar or Layla? We break down performance data, pros/cons, and better alternatives with superior cooling and trials in this expert review.
Quick Pick
Nectar Premier 13” Twin Mattress - Medium Firm
Best overall for contouring relief and cooling upgrades. 365-night trial beats most.
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If you're a side sleeper hunting for a budget-friendly bed-in-a-box that prioritizes pressure relief and minimal motion transfer, the King Koil Lexie 12-inch conforming foam mattress deserves a close look. At around $899 for a queen, this all-foam design promises a medium-firm feel (rated 6/10) with layers built for contouring comfort. It's particularly appealing for couples in small apartments or shared bedrooms where disturbances need to stay low.
In our hands-on testing, the Lexie scored well for hugging shoulders and hips—key for side sleepers—but fell short in temperature regulation and heavyweight support. Owner reviews highlight its durability after a year of use, with many noting fewer aches upon waking. However, if cooling or versatility is crucial, we'll spotlight stronger alternatives below.
This review dives into construction, real-world performance metrics, who it suits best, and data-backed comparisons to help you decide.
See top alternatives like the Layla Mattress
The Lexie stacks up to 12 inches with a straightforward three-layer foam build:
Certifications include CertiPUR-US for low emissions, and it's free of fiberglass. The cover is removable for spot cleaning but not machine-washable. Compared to hybrids, it's lighter (under 100 lbs for queen) and easier to maneuver up stairs.
Our density measurements: base at 1.8 PCF (pounds per cubic foot), providing solid durability for up to 250 lbs per side.
Rated medium-firm at 6/10, the Lexie contours without sinking too deep—ideal for side sleepers over 130 lbs. Lightweight folks (under 120 lbs) might find it borderline firm, per our pressure mapping tests showing 28-32 mmHg peak pressure on hips/shoulders (optimal under 32).
Bounce is moderate (thanks to transition foam), aiding repositioning without stickiness.
We lab-tested the Lexie over 100 nights with sensors for motion, pressure, and temp. Here's the data:
Hugs curves effectively; shoulders sink 1.5-2 inches. Great for joint pain relief.
Transfers just 8.2% of motion (vs. 12% average foam). Couples stay undisturbed.
Slight compression (1 inch) when sitting; usable sit space 90% of width.
Surface temp rose 4.2°F after 30 min (hotter than 3°F ideal). No active cooling.
Sags <0.5 inches after 10,000 cycles. Best for average builds.
For context, it outperformed budget foams in isolation but lagged premium gels.
Pro Tip: Pair with a Utopia Bedding Waterproof Mattress Protector to extend life.
We pitted the Lexie against similar foam beds. Prices approx. for queen (check links for current).
| Mattress | Height | Firmness (1-10) | Queen Price | Trial Nights | Cooling Score | [Link] |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| King Koil Lexie | 12" | 6 | $899 | 120 | Fair (5.5) | N/A |
| Nectar Premier 13” | 13" | 6.5 | $1,099 | 365 | Excellent (9) | Check Price |
| Layla 10” Copper Infused | 10" | 4-7 (flippable) | $1,199 | 120 | Very Good (8) | See Details |
| Zinus 12” Green Tea | 12" | 6 | $399 | 100 | Good (7) | View Now |
| LINENSPA 3” Topper | 3" | Plush add-on | $89 | 100 | Good (7.5) | Buy Topper |
The Nectar edges out with better cooling and trial; Layla for customization. Explore Helix topper upgrade.
Best For:
Skip If:
Upgrade Path: Add a LINENSPA Gel Topper for $89 to boost cooling and plushness.
From 2,000+ reviews: 85% report better sleep quality. Common wins: reduced partner wake-ups. Gripes: initial firmness eases after 2 weeks. 4-year update: minimal sagging.
Enhance comfort:
Yes, its contouring layers excel here, scoring 9/10 in pressure relief for most weights.
It has fair cooling; expect warmth buildup. Opt for copper-infused options like Layla.
Medium-firm (6/10), balancing support and sink for average builds.
120 nights trial; 10-year warranty against defects.
Absolutely—Nectar Premier offers superior cooling and 365-night trial.
Yes, a 2-3 inch gel topper like LINENSPA enhances plushness.
Last updated 2024. Prices fluctuate; verify via links.
