Four Better Mattress models gave us four clearly different sleep experiences. Percival kept the body highest and felt easiest to move across, while Galahad softened the surface for shoulders and hips. Arthur delivered the strongest midrange balance, and R.W. Davis Plush paired the deepest cushioning with the best support and edge stability of the group. The right choice comes down to where you want more give, how much lift you need under your hips, and whether the exact model is still available locally.
Table of Contents
- The four models at a glance
- Which model stands out?
- How do the builds and feels compare?
- What did we measure?
- Better Mattress: our testing experience
- Where each mattress scored best
- Which feel fits your sleep style?
- What should you know before buying?
- What current alternatives are worth comparing?
- How to get a cleaner read on the mattress
- FAQs
The four models at a glance
| Mattress | Overall Score | Pros | Cons | Best For | Current Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Percival Cushion Firm | 3.6/5 | Level support; quick movement; low-pressure feel | Limited shoulder cushioning; noticeable motion transfer | Back and stomach sleepers; guest rooms | Not in the current online catalog |
| Galahad Euro Top | 3.7/5 | Softer surface; better shoulder and hip relief | More edge compression; less hip lift for heavier stomach sleepers | Side and combination sleepers | Not in the current online catalog |
| Arthur Euro Pillow Top | 4.1/5 | Balanced contour; steady edges; even support | Some partner movement; higher cost than the entry models | Couples and combination sleepers | Not in the current online catalog |
| R.W. Davis Plush | 4.4/5 | Deep comfort; strong support; best edge stability | Heavy to handle; too cushioned for firm-bed fans | Back and side sleepers seeking a premium plush feel | Not in the current online catalog |
These scores reflect the mattresses we tested, not the retailer's current catalog. None of the four exact variants appeared in the store's online search when we checked, so confirm remaining inventory, floor-model condition, and written return terms before buying.
Which model stands out?
Percival is the clear support-first choice. It kept our hips level, responded quickly when we rolled over, and felt predictable from one side of the bed to the other. Its weak point is pressure relief: side sleepers who carry more weight at the shoulder or hip will feel the firmer surface sooner.
Galahad has the quickest, softest initial give within the Camelot group. That extra surface cushion helped our lighter side sleeper settle more comfortably, but the perimeter compressed more and our heavier stomach sleeper needed more lift through the middle.
Arthur is the best midrange compromise. It cushioned the shoulder without letting the hips drift too far down, and its edge stayed steadier than Galahad's. Couples should still expect some movement to cross the surface, but the overall feel works across more positions than either entry model.
R.W. Davis Plush is the best overall performer in this test. It delivered the deepest cushioning, strongest edge, and most complete support profile without turning sluggish. It is the one to pursue if a local store still has suitable inventory and the price, condition, and policy terms make sense.
How do the builds and feels compare?
| Item | Percival | Galahad | Arthur | R.W. Davis Plush |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Documented top style | Not specified | Euro Top | Euro Pillow Top | Tight Top |
| Documented feel | Cushion Firm | Not specified | Not specified | Plush |
| Archived construction notes | Not available | Not available | HyPURGel memory foam; copper foam; pocket-coil support | Wool-blend quilt; HyPURGel; latex; zoned pocket coils |
| Tested feel | Firm-leaning; little sink | Medium; soft initial give | Medium to medium-firm; balanced | Medium; plush surface with strong support below |
| Edge behavior | Usable, with moderate compression | Softest perimeter | Steady for sitting and near-edge sleep | Strongest perimeter in the group |
| Overall score | 3.6/5 | 3.7/5 | 4.1/5 | 4.4/5 |
The construction notes above reflect product information available during the review period. The current online catalog does not list these exact variants, so do not assume that archived specifications apply to similarly named beds or remaining store inventory.
What did we measure?
All four mattresses went on the same rigid foundation in the same bedroom. We rotated through back, side, stomach, and combination-sleeping sessions, then repeated the same seven checks: support, pressure relief, cooling, motion isolation, responsiveness, edge support, and short-term durability. Firmness was rated on a 10-point scale, while every published performance score uses a 5-point scale.
For repeatable comparisons, we measured sink with a 44-pound load, tracked surface-temperature change over 30 minutes, dropped a 10-pound ball from 12 inches with a sensor 12 inches away, and compared edge compression with center compression under the same load. Those readings support the experience notes below; they are not manufacturer specifications or long-term lab projections.
Better Mattress: our testing experience
Percival Cushion Firm
Our testing experience

Percival felt firm and orderly from the first night. On our 10-point firmness scale, it landed at 7.5, and the 44-pound load sank 1.4 inches. That modest give matched what we felt while lying down: the hips stayed high during back and stomach sleeping, and a turn from back to side took little effort. The surface recovered to 90% of its height in 1.2 seconds after the load came off.
The same resistance that kept the midsection level made side sleeping less comfortable. Our lighter tester could settle in for short periods, but our broader-shouldered tester felt pressure build before the end of a full sleep cycle. Motion also traveled more readily than on Arthur or R.W. Davis; the drop test averaged 0.31 g at the sensor. Temperature rose 6.9°F over 30 minutes, which felt neutral rather than actively cool.
What we liked
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The firm surface kept the pelvis from dipping during back and stomach sleeping.
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Fast recovery made rolling over and getting out of bed easy.
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The feel stayed consistent across the center, without a sudden soft pocket.
Who it is best for
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Back sleepers who prefer to stay on top of the mattress.
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Stomach sleepers who need more lift through the hips.
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Guest rooms where a straightforward, firm-leaning feel is more useful than deep contouring.
Where it falls short
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Shoulders and hips do not sink far enough for many dedicated side sleepers.
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Quick turns and partner movement are easier to notice across the bed.
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The edge is usable, but it compresses more than Arthur's or R.W. Davis's.

Pros & cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Level, support-first feel | Firm at the shoulder for side sleeping |
| Quick, easy position changes | More motion reaches the other side |
| Predictable surface response | Only moderate edge stability |

Details
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Current online listing: Not found
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Documented feel: Cushion Firm
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Tested firmness: 7.5/10
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Buying note: Confirm remaining or floor stock, condition, price, and return terms directly with the retailer.

Review score
| Metric | Score | What we found |
|---|---|---|
| Support | 4.1/5 | Kept the hips level on the back |
| Pressure Relief | 3.3/5 | Firm at the shoulder on the side |
| Cooling | 3.6/5 | Neutral, with a 6.9°F rise in 30 minutes |
| Motion Isolation | 3.2/5 | Quick movement crossed the surface |
| Responsiveness | 4.0/5 | Recovered quickly after load removal |
| Edge Support | 3.6/5 | Stable enough for entry and exit |
| Durability | 3.6/5 | No meaningful softening during rotation |
| Overall Score | 3.6/5 | Strong support with clear comfort trade-offs |
Galahad Euro Top
Our testing experience

Galahad softened under the shoulder almost immediately. We rated it 5.5/10 for firmness, and the 44-pound load sank 2.4 inches—one inch more than it did on Percival. That difference was easy to feel while reading on our sides: the shoulder settled into the Euro top instead of pressing against it, and the outer hip felt less exposed.
The trade-off appeared under heavier weight and near the perimeter. Our heavier tester felt his hips sit lower during stomach sleeping, while the edge compressed 3.8 inches under the same load used at the center. The motion test averaged 0.25 g, an improvement over Percival but still noticeable. Surface temperature rose 7.1°F after 30 minutes, so the bed did not feel cool to the touch or especially quick to release heat.
What we liked
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The Euro top gave shoulders and hips useful room to settle.
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Side sleeping felt less blunt than it did on Percival.
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The medium feel made position changes smooth without a sharp firmness transition.
Who it is best for
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Side sleepers who need more surface cushion than Percival provides.
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Combination sleepers who spend a meaningful part of the night on their side.
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People who dislike a flat, firm first impression.
Where it falls short
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Heavier stomach sleepers may not get enough lift under the hips.
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The perimeter compresses noticeably while sitting or sleeping close to the edge.
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It reduces some movement but does not fully settle a restless partner's turns.

Pros & cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Better pressure relief than Percival | Softest edge in the group |
| Comfortable initial cushion | Less support for heavier stomach sleepers |
| Easy for side-to-back transitions | Only average temperature control |

Details
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Current online listing: Not found
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Documented top style: Euro Top
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Tested firmness: 5.5/10
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Buying note: Ask the retailer to identify the exact law-tag model and provide current terms before purchasing remaining inventory.

Review score
| Metric | Score | What we found |
|---|---|---|
| Support | 3.8/5 | Supportive for most positions, softer under the hips |
| Pressure Relief | 4.2/5 | The best shoulder relief among the Camelot models |
| Cooling | 3.6/5 | A 7.1°F rise; not cool to the touch |
| Motion Isolation | 3.5/5 | Reduced some movement, but not quick turns |
| Responsiveness | 3.6/5 | Smooth movement with more surface hug |
| Edge Support | 3.4/5 | Noticeable compression while sitting |
| Durability | 3.6/5 | Stable during rotation; limited long-term evidence |
| Overall Score | 3.7/5 | Useful pressure relief with softer support zones |
Arthur Euro Pillow Top
Our testing experience

Arthur felt more controlled than either lower-priced Camelot model. We rated the firmness at 6/10, and the 44-pound load sank 2.0 inches. That was enough room for the shoulder to settle during side sleeping without letting the hips drift out of line on the back. Rolling from side to back took one steady movement rather than an extra push with the arms.
The edge was also a clear step up. Under our standard load, it compressed 2.5 inches, compared with Galahad's 3.8 inches, and it felt secure while we sat to put on shoes. A 30-minute session raised the surface temperature by 4.9°F. The drop test averaged 0.21 g, so partner movement was muted more effectively than on the two entry models, though a fast turn was still perceptible.
What we liked
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The surface relieved shoulder pressure without losing midsection support.
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Transitions between back and side sleeping felt even and controlled.
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The stronger perimeter made more of the mattress usable.
Who it is best for
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Combination sleepers who need both contouring and easy movement.
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Couples with different position preferences who want a workable middle ground.
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People who use the edge for sitting or sleep close to the perimeter.
Where it falls short
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A restless partner's quickest movements can still be felt.
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Dedicated firm-bed sleepers may want a flatter surface.
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Its value depends heavily on the condition and price of any remaining inventory.

Pros & cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Balanced contour and support | Some partner movement remains |
| Steadier, more usable edge | Not a true firm feel |
| Works across more sleep positions | Current availability is uncertain |

Details
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Current online listing: Not found
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Documented top style: Euro Pillow Top
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Archived construction notes: Cooling stretch-knit fabric, HyPURGel memory foam, copper foam, and pocket-coil support
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Tested firmness: 6/10
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Buying note: Match any remaining unit to the exact model label; do not assume a similarly named mattress uses the same build.

Review score
| Metric | Score | What we found |
|---|---|---|
| Support | 4.2/5 | Kept the hips aligned across positions |
| Pressure Relief | 4.4/5 | More forgiving at the shoulder and outer hip |
| Cooling | 4.1/5 | Only a 4.9°F rise after 30 minutes |
| Motion Isolation | 3.8/5 | Dampened most movement, not every quick turn |
| Responsiveness | 3.9/5 | Easy to roll without feeling pushed |
| Edge Support | 4.1/5 | Stable while sitting and lying near the side |
| Durability | 4.0/5 | More stable construction cues than the entry models |
| Overall Score | 4.1/5 | The most practical midrange balance |
R.W. Davis Plush
Our testing experience

R.W. Davis Plush had the deepest comfort of the four, but it did not let the hips collapse. Its first layer felt soft, while the support underneath arrived before we sank too far. We measured a 5.5/10 firmness and 2.1 inches of sink under the 44-pound load. Even our heavier tester could lie on his back without the familiar hammock shape that appears on less supportive plush beds.
The mattress also led the group at the edge. It compressed 2.0 inches under the standard load and stayed composed through a 30-second sit, making it easier to use the full width. Surface temperature increased 4.3°F after 30 minutes, the smallest rise in the group. The motion test averaged 0.18 g, and the surface recovered to 90% of its height in 1.4 seconds. It softened impact without becoming slow or sticky.
What we liked
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Deep cushioning arrived without sacrificing hip and lower-back support.
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The strong perimeter made sitting and near-edge sleeping feel secure.
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It combined the best temperature result with easy position changes.
Who it is best for
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Back and side sleepers who want a plush surface with a stable base.
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Couples who value both edge space and better motion control.
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People who lounge in bed and need support to hold up through longer sessions.
Where it falls short
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Firm-bed fans will find the top more cushioned than they want.
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The substantial build is harder to rotate or move without help.
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Any remaining unit needs careful price, condition, and policy checks because the exact variant is not in the current online catalog.

Pros & cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Supportive beneath deep cushioning | Too plush for firm-bed preferences |
| Strongest edge in the test | Heavy and awkward to move |
| Best overall test performance | Current availability is uncertain |

Details
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Current online listing: Not found
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Documented feel: Plush
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Documented top style: Tight Top; this describes the top construction, not a firm comfort level
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Archived sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, and California King
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Archived construction notes: Wool-blend quilt, HyPURGel, soft latex, cooling beads, and zoned pocket coils
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Tested firmness: 5.5/10
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Buying note: Confirm the exact law-tag model, condition, manufacturer warranty, and store return terms in writing.

Review score
| Metric | Score | What we found |
|---|---|---|
| Support | 4.5/5 | Plush on top with steady support under the hips |
| Pressure Relief | 4.6/5 | The most complete shoulder and hip relief |
| Cooling | 4.2/5 | The smallest 30-minute temperature rise |
| Motion Isolation | 4.0/5 | Reduced impact without eliminating all movement |
| Responsiveness | 4.3/5 | Recovered quickly enough for easy turns |
| Edge Support | 4.4/5 | Best sitting and near-edge stability in the group |
| Durability | 4.6/5 | Strong build cues and no visible change during rotation |
| Overall Score | 4.4/5 | The strongest overall mix of comfort and support |
Where each mattress scored best
| Mattress | Overall | Support | Pressure Relief | Cooling | Motion Isolation | Durability | Responsiveness | Edge Support |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Percival | 3.6 | 4.1 | 3.3 | 3.6 | 3.2 | 3.6 | 4.0 | 3.6 |
| Galahad | 3.7 | 3.8 | 4.2 | 3.6 | 3.5 | 3.6 | 3.6 | 3.4 |
| Arthur | 4.1 | 4.2 | 4.4 | 4.1 | 3.8 | 4.0 | 3.9 | 4.1 |
| R.W. Davis Plush | 4.4 | 4.5 | 4.6 | 4.2 | 4.0 | 4.6 | 4.3 | 4.4 |
R.W. Davis Plush led every category and is the strongest overall result. Arthur is still the smarter midrange benchmark because its 4.1 score comes with no major weakness and a more neutral feel. Percival earns its place through support and movement, while Galahad trades edge strength for better pressure relief.
Which feel fits your sleep style?
Choose Percival if you sleep mostly on your back or stomach and dislike sinking through the middle. Choose Galahad if shoulder and hip pressure interrupts side sleep and you rarely depend on the edge. Arthur is the safest mixed-position choice for a couple because it balances contour, movement, and perimeter stability. R.W. Davis Plush is the premium choice for deeper cushioning without weak hip support.
Availability now matters as much as feel. Because none of these exact variants appears in the current online catalog, ask the retailer to confirm the full model name, size, condition, manufacture date, warranty coverage, delivery charge, and return or exchange fees before you pay. A similarly named private-label mattress may use a different build and should be treated as a different product.
What should you know before buying?
Our results compare four specific samples over a limited rotation, not every mattress ever sold under these collection names. The durability scores reflect materials, stability, and short-term change; they do not replace years of ownership data. Body weight and position also change the result: Galahad's soft surface worked well for our lighter side sleeper but gave our heavier stomach sleeper less midsection support.
The larger limitation is current availability. The exact models were not listed in the retailer's online catalog at our latest check, and the original prices were not consistently tied to the same size. Treat any old price or archived specification as background only. The store's current general policy allows a 120-day mattress return or one exchange with fees and conditions, but clearance and floor models may be excluded, so get the terms for the actual unit in writing.
What current alternatives are worth comparing?
DreamCloud Classic Hybrid is the clearest current value alternative to Percival. It is a 12-inch boxed hybrid with a firm feel, a quilted cooling cover, memory foam, and individually wrapped coils. It also comes with a 365-night trial and a lifetime warranty. Expect more foam contour than Percival, but the current sales path and published policy are much easier to verify.
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is the most direct current mid-price comparison because The Better Mattress lists it now in soft, medium, and firm versions. Its choice of feels makes it easier to target either Galahad-like pressure relief or Arthur-like balance, although the exact response will differ from both legacy models. It is the practical option for shoppers who want to try a currently supported mattress through the same retailer.
Saatva Classic is the stronger premium alternative to Arthur or R.W. Davis Plush. It offers three firmness levels, two heights, a three-inch Euro pillow top, dual-coil support, reinforced edges, a 365-night trial, and in-room setup. It costs more than many boxed hybrids, but the selectable feel and published service terms reduce the guesswork that comes with remaining or floor-model inventory.
How to get a cleaner read on the mattress
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Give a new sleep surface about 30 nights before judging it, unless pain or a safety issue makes continued use unreasonable.
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Use a thin, breathable protector; a thick cover can add warmth and make the surface feel firmer.
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Rotate the mattress on the maker's schedule, especially if you sit in the same edge spot every day.
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Pair a softer Euro top with the right pillow height. A pillow that is too tall can push a side sleeper's neck out of line even when the mattress relieves shoulder pressure.
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If the bed sleeps warm, simplify the sheets and comforter before adding a cooling pad that changes the feel.
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Use a rigid, stable foundation. A flexible frame can exaggerate movement and make edge support feel weaker.
FAQs
Which model felt best for side sleeping?
Galahad gave the shoulder the most room among the Camelot models, while R.W. Davis Plush delivered the best combination of pressure relief and support overall. Arthur is the more balanced choice for people who split the night between side and back sleeping.
Which model is best for back support?
R.W. Davis Plush scored highest for support, but Percival provided the firmest, flattest feel. Arthur is the better middle ground for back sleepers who still want some contouring.
Which model works best for couples?
R.W. Davis Plush had the strongest combined edge and motion results. Arthur costs less in the original lineup and offers a more neutral feel, making it the better compromise when partners prefer different sleep positions.
Which model is easiest to move on?
R.W. Davis Plush scored highest for responsiveness, with Percival close behind. Percival feels flatter and firmer, while R.W. Davis adds more cushioning without making turns feel slow.