Why do cheap Amazon hybrids have such high star ratings but poor expert scores?

This is a recurring conflict in the data. Several budget hybrids carry 4.5-plus Amazon averages, yet independent tester naplab.com ranked some of them near the bottom of all mattresses tested. Amazon ratings are gameable and often reflect first-impression comfort and easy setup, while lab scores weigh long-term support, edge durability and pressure relief. Treat the star average as one signal, not a verdict.