Twin vs. Full Mattress Comparison: Which Is Best? Update 11/2024

When shopping for a new mattress, are you unclear of what size to purchase? Size does matter when it comes to mattresses. This mattress should fit your sleeping habits and the available room in your home.

Choosing between a twin and full mattress can be difficult, but you should know that the primary distinction is in the width. However, a regular full-sized mattress is 15 inches wider than a conventional twin-sized mattress. We’ll explain the differences between twin and full mattresses and give you some pointers on how to pick the one that’s just right for you.

Our twin-sized mattresses are constructed with a variety of cooling foam layers. Your package will arrive on your doorstep within days of the order being placed.

Twin vs. Full Dimensions

This is the primary difference between a twin and a full mattress. Compared to a twin, a full-size mattress is 15 inches longer. Use the chart above and the complete advice below to help you compare the two. The differences between twin, twin XL, full and full XL mattresses are discussed in this article.

Twin (Standard)

Dimensions: 38” x 75”

Surface area: 2,850 square inches

Standard twin mattresses (sometimes known as “single beds”) are the smallest mattress sizes on the market, apart from a baby mattress. It is 38 inches broad and 75 inches long, with 2,850 square inches of surface area. It’s ideal for children, bunk beds, and small sleeping areas because it’s small and compact.

Twin XL

Dimensions: 38” x 80”

Surface area: 3,040 square inches

This mattress is slightly larger than the standard twin size, with a surface area of 3,040 square inches and a width of 38 inches. Five inches longer and nearly 6% larger than a twin bed, it’s ideal for taller teenagers or adults who live in cramped homes. These mattresses are comparable in length to king- or queen-sized mattresses, but they are significantly smaller in width.

Full (Standard)

Dimensions: 53” x 75”

Surface area: 3,975 square inches

Although twin XL mattresses are 15 inches wider than full mattresses, they are just 5 inches shorter. At 3,975 square feet, the surface area of a full mattress is 30 percent larger than that of a twin XL (53 inches wide by 74 inches long). This is an excellent mattress for recent college grads or young adults who are just starting out on their own.

Full XL

Dimensions: 53” x 80”

Surface area: 4,240 square inches

Five inches longer than a conventional full, yet the same width. Full XL mattresses are typically 53 inches broad and 80 inches long, with a surface area of 4,240 square inches, which is 6% larger than a conventional full. If you’re a little taller than the average person, this is an excellent choice.

When It’s Good to Use Them

Twin

These come in handy when space is limited when a youngster is making the move from a crib to a “big kid’s bed.” This is the most typical option for bunk beds as well. As the world’s smallest mattress, these are perfect for any compact environment.

Compared to other mattresses, they are easier to move due of their size and weight, which makes it easier to rotate or flip your mattress (which many manufactures recommend to extend the life of your mattress).

Because they don’t take up a lot of room but are long enough for adults to sleep on, XL mattresses are typical in college dorms and hostels. Because two XLs pushed together are the size of a conventional king, they make excellent choices for couples in search of an adjustable bed frame that will work for both of them.

Full

There are 15 extra inches of side-to-side space in this size, making it suitable for solitary adults. There is a little over 26 inches of space for each person on this mattress, but it would be a tight fit. If you have a small master bedroom, this could be a viable choice for you.

These are perfect for guest rooms because they can be used by both children and adults, making them versatile. A growing number of families prefer this size because it is so adaptable, allowing their children to grow into their teens with the same amount of sleeping space.

In most spaces, this is a good size, and it will certainly offer plenty of room for additional furniture. In addition to bedding, you’ll be hard-pressed to locate any accessories that don’t come in this size.

Other Differences Between Full and Twin Mattresses

In addition to size, price, room size, accessories, and specific usage can all play a role in your purchase decision.

Price

According on the brand, the material, the type of mattress, and the size, a mattress’s price might vary greatly. Because twin mattresses are smaller, they are frequently less expensive than full-size mattresses. The larger the mattress, the more it will cost.

As an example, take a look at the pricing difference between our original Casper mattress and the Casper Plush one:

  • Twin: $695
  • Twin XL: $795
  • Full: $995

Because of the unique combination of materials in a hybrid mattress, expect to pay a little more. Compare the Original Hybrid Mattress with the following:

  • Twin: $995
  • Twin XL: $1,095
  • Full: $1,295

When buying on a budget, you should keep this in mind, even when the price difference isn’t huge.

Accessories

You’ll also want to think about what additional items you’ll need for your mattress size. It’s not difficult to obtain sheets and bedding that fit twin and full mattresses, although the price will vary.

The cost of bedding, pillows, and other accessories will vary depending on the brand, material, and size of the product. As a result of their smaller size, twin sheets are often less expensive than full-size sheets. Twin beds require less pillows depending on your sleeping style. When it comes to pillows, twin beds normally only require one, whereas a full-size bed has plenty of room for two.

Room Size

In terms of room size, twin mattresses are the obvious choice for smaller bedrooms. Both twin and full mattresses, on the other hand, are wonderful space savers because they can fit in almost any room.

Twin beds are ideal for small spaces, such as those found in children’s rooms or studio apartments. Typically found in hostels and studio apartments, twin XL mattresses are ideal for teenagers and young adults because they are a little bit longer.

A full mattress can be used in a wide range of places, but it’s especially useful in smaller spaces like apartments, dorm rooms, and master bedrooms. They’re great for guest rooms, too, because they’re suitable for both children and adults. Full-sized mattresses are best suited for rooms that measure 10 × 10 or 10 x 12 feet. This will ensure that there is enough area for additional furniture and decor in the room.

Uses

Using a twin-sized mattress as a transition from a crib to a “big kid’s bed” is a terrific idea for children. Twin beds are ideal for families with two children who share a room. For bunk beds, they’re ideal. When your children are teenagers, you may want to consider converting to a full-sized bed if the twin is too tiny.

For solitary sleepers, a full mattress is appropriate because of the additional breadth on each side. A full-sized bed provides 27 inches of space for each person who sleeps in it. For two people, a full may be too cramped, especially if you need privacy.

The Pros and Cons of a Twin Bed

A common mattress choice for children who have outgrown their cribs is a twin bed, which is sometimes known as a single bed. If you have a kid’s or a guest room, these are fantastic space savers.

Pros

  • Moving is simple.
  • Costs less than a single mattress.
  • Suitable for toddlers and children.
  • It is suitable for bunk beds.

Cons

  • It’s too little for adults and teenagers.
  • Over time, kids may outgrow this trend.
  • Not as adaptable as a full bed.

Twin beds are less expensive and easier to carry than full mattresses because of their smaller size. However, if your child experiences a growth spurt, they may not be able to use them for long.

The Pros and Cons of a Full Bed

Full beds, often known as double beds, are the best choice for singles who want to conserve on room. When compared to a typical twin mattress, full mattresses are wider but have the same length, making them a good option for limited spaces like college dormitories and vacation rentals.

Pros

  • Suitable for teenagers and young adults who are taller.
  • Allows for more space.
  • Accessories are readily available for this model.
  • Small apartments and guest rooms can benefit from this product.

Cons

  • Twins are more expensive.
  • Couples may not be able to fit comfortably.
  • Not as simple to move.

Due to the fact that a twin mattress is 15 inches wider than a full mattress, it costs more and is more difficult to move. These beds are a great option for young people who have to share a small space because of the extra width they provide.

Should You Get a Twin or Full Bed?

For a new mattress, think about who will be using it and where you intend to put it.

You should choose a standard twin mattress if:

  • Purchasing a child’s first “big kid bed” is an exciting time because they’ve outgrown their crib.
  • In your kid’s room, you’d want to install a bunk bed.
  • You’re on the lookout for a mattress that’s as cheap as possible.

You should choose a twin XL mattress if:

  • You have a youngster who is too tall for a set of identical twins and requires the added length.
  • You live in a one-bedroom apartment in a building with other residents.
  • For a hostel, you’re looking for a place to sleep.

You should choose a full mattress if:

  • You just got your bachelor’s degree and are relocating to a new city.
  • For the first time in your life, you’re a single adult who is able to care for yourself.
  • There needs to be an option that can develop with your child.

You should choose a full XL mattress if:

  • You enjoy cuddling up next to someone while they sleep.
  • When it comes to sleeping, you need more room for your legs.
  • A king or queen-sized mattress is out of the question for you.

Once you know the exact dimensions of your mattress, the fun begins! Mattresses can be made from a variety of materials including memory foam, latex, and hybrids. Comfortable bedding, comforters and pillows are also essential.

Are you interested in comparing mattresses from different brands? We’ve put together comparison guides for memory foam vs. spring mattresses, as well as the comparison between latex and memory foam, and the comparison between king and California king mattress sizes.

FAQs

What is the difference between a full and a twin bed?

A full-size bed has a mattress that is 16 inches wider than a twin bed, despite the fact that they are both the same length. Full-size mattresses are excellent for teenagers, college students, and alone sleepers because they are larger than twin-sized beds.

Is a twin big enough for two?

Twin-sized mattresses, which measure 38 by 75 inches and are ideal for single individuals, are too small for a couple to comfortably sleep on. For two individuals to sleep comfortably, there isn’t enough room in the tiny design.

Is there a bed bigger than a twin but smaller than a full?

A twin XL mattress could be a good option for a middle ground. For taller people, a Twin XL mattress provides an additional 5 inches of length, making it ideal for those who need a mattress that is both wide and long.

Is a Twin or Full Size Mattress Right for You?

Consider the person who will be sleeping in the bed when deciding between a twin and a full size mattress. A twin or a full-size bed is ideal for toddlers who have outgrown their cribs and for teenagers who are ready to live independently. Both sizes are excellent for single sleepers, regardless of their age, whether they’re children, teenagers, college students, or adults.

Are these sizes good for toddlers and kids?

Toddlers and children will like both options. When it comes to toddlers, a full would be too big, but if you want something that you can grow into for years, it’s a terrific alternative.

What are the dimensions in centimeters?

For a twin, the width and length are 96.52 and 190.5 centimeters respectively. The dimensions of an XL are 203.2 centimeters in length and the same breadth.

It is standard for fulls to measure 134.62 centimeters wide and 190.5 cm long. It’s also worth noting that XLs measure a whopping 134.62 cm wide by 203.2 cm in length.

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