Queen vs. Full: What’s the Difference?

The most versatile bed size deserves the most versatile mattress. The AS3 by Amerisleep fits that bill, offering comfort to almost every sleep position as well as hot sleepers and even active sleepers. This is one of the most responsive and cooling memory foam mattresses out there.

The AS3 is so cooling and bouncy because it features Amerisleep’s proprietary plant-based Bio-Pur® memory foam. This foam is much more breathable than traditional memory foam to keep hot sleepers cool. It’s also bouncier than regular polyurethane foam, so active sleepers can rest assured this mattress will spring right back into place when they move.

Another great feature of this mattress is its extreme durability. Combined with the ultra-dense Bio-Core® support base, this Bio-Pur® memory foam bed will outlast just about every other memory foam mattress on the market. That’s why it boasts a 20-year manufacturer warranty.

Full Mattress

A full size mattress is the next size down from a queen in the standard bed size run. It’s wider than a twin or twin XL, but it’s shorter than all but the regular twin mattress.

Full Mattress Dimensions

The dimensions of a full size bed are 54 by 75 inches. That’s both shorter and narrower than a queen size bed. But don’t let the size fool you. Even though it’s not as popular or as versatile as the queen bed, the full is still a great option for certain situations.

Who Should Sleep on a Full Bed?

The full size bed also goes by the name “double bed.” This can give the impression that it’s large enough for couples to use. However, this might’ve been true 100 years ago, but as both people and homes have gotten larger, it’s no longer the case.

The full size mattress only offers couples 27 inches of sleeping space apiece. That’s the same amount of width as a baby crib. That means the full bed is actually better for single adults who need more wiggle room to toss and turn. It’s also a wonderful option to give children some extra space because they’re under six feet tall.

Ideal Spaces for a Full Bed

One of the advantages of full size beds comes in when you live in a smaller or older house. When your bedrooms are smaller, you might not be able to fit a queen in them. That means a full size bed may be your only option if you have a smaller space. Fulls can fit in bedrooms as small as eight by eight and a half feet.

Average Cost of a Full Bed

The other major advantage that fulls have over queens is they’re easier on your wallet. No matter what material your full size bed is made of, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $300 less for it than for a queen mattress of the same brand and model.

Pros of a Full-Size Bed

1. Compact Yet Spacious Enough for One
   A full-size bed, also known as a double bed, measures 54 inches wide and 75 inches long. It offers more width than a twin bed, making it a great choice for single sleepers who enjoy extra room to move around. It’s compact enough to fit into smaller spaces while still providing sufficient comfort for one person.
2. Fits Well in Smaller Rooms
   A full-size bed is ideal for smaller bedrooms, such as those in apartments, dorms, or guest rooms. Its smaller footprint compared to a queen or king bed allows for better utilization of space, leaving room for other furniture like dressers, desks, or chairs.
3. Affordable Option
   Compared to queen or king beds, a full-size bed is significantly more budget-friendly. Mattresses, bed frames, and bedding are generally less expensive, making it a practical choice for those furnishing their homes on a tight budget.
4. Wide Availability of Accessories
   Full-size beds are a standard size, meaning there is a vast selection of mattresses, bed frames, and bedding available. You’ll find options in all price ranges and styles, which makes shopping for a full-size bed and its accessories convenient and cost-effective.
5. Lightweight and Easy to Move
   Since a full-size bed is smaller and lighter than a queen or king bed, it’s much easier to move and rearrange. This is especially advantageous for people who relocate frequently or like to reorganize their living spaces often.

Cons of a Full-Size Bed

1. Limited Space for Two
   While a full-size bed can technically fit two people, it’s not ideal for long-term use by couples. With a width of only 54 inches, each person would have about 27 inches of space—less than a twin bed provides for a single sleeper. This can feel cramped and uncomfortable for most couples.
2. Too Short for Tall Individuals
   At 75 inches in length, a full-size bed may not accommodate taller sleepers comfortably. Individuals over 6 feet tall may find their feet hanging off the edge or feel restricted by the shorter length, making it less suitable for their needs.
3. Less Luxurious for Singles
   While a full-size bed is sufficient for one person, it doesn’t offer the same level of spaciousness as a queen or king bed. Single sleepers who prefer more room to spread out or move during the night might find a full-size bed somewhat limiting.
4. Limited Future Use
   A full-size bed is less versatile for future needs. If you plan to share the bed with a partner or use it for a guest room in the future, the smaller size may not meet your requirements. Investing in a queen-size bed might be a better long-term solution.
5. Not Ideal for Large Bedrooms
   In larger rooms, a full-size bed can look out of place or too small, leaving the space feeling unbalanced or underutilized. It may also limit design options for the room, as the bed won’t act as a strong focal point like a larger bed would.

Those looking to shave a few bucks off the price of their queen by purchasing a full can get double savings with the full size Vaya Hybrid. This mattress features three layers of hybrid comfort at a very “non-hybrid” price.

The ultra-contouring memory foam in the top layer offers lots of pressure relief to protect side sleepers’ hips and shoulders from pain. The breathable open-cell foam will also help wick away moisture and body heat for all-night coolness.

Back sleepers will appreciate the adaptable pocketed coil support core. Each individually wrapped coil can move independently of the others. This lets the springs compress underneath the heavier parts of your body while rising to meet your lumbar curve.

Best of all, you don’t have to sacrifice durability for the Vaya’s great price any more than you have to sacrifice comfort. The Vaya still comes with an industry-standard 10-year warranty and a 100-night sleep trial.

How To Choose Between a Full or Queen Bed?

Choosing between a full-size and a queen-size bed involves considering several factors, including the size difference between the full and queen sizes, the dimensions of your room, your budget, how much space you need to sleep comfortably, and your long-term needs.

1. Consider Your Bedroom Size

Full Bed: 

• If you have a smaller bedroom or need to maximize space, a full-size bed is a good option.
• It’s compact, typically measuring 54 inches wide by 75 inches long, and will fit into smaller rooms without overwhelming the space.
• It leaves room for additional furniture like desks, chairs, or dressers.
• A full bed is ideal for apartments, smaller guest rooms, or rooms with limited space.

Queen Bed: 

• A queen-size bed (60 inches wide by 80 inches long) is a good choice if you have a medium-sized room or want a little extra space in your sleeping area.
• It’s more spacious than a full bed, providing ample room for two adults, but may take up more space in smaller rooms, leaving less room for other furniture.
• In larger rooms, a queen bed looks more balanced and feels less cramped.

2. Evaluate How Much Sleeping Space You Need

Full Bed: 

• If you’re a single sleeper and prefer a little more room to move around, a full-size bed provides that extra space compared to a twin bed.
• However, if you share the bed with a partner or expect to do so in the future, a full-size bed may feel cramped, as it’s designed primarily for one person. It’s less ideal for couples.

Queen Bed: 

• A queen-size bed is designed to comfortably fit two adults, giving each person more space—30 inches wide for each person, which is a much more comfortable setup for couples.
• If you prefer more space to stretch out while sleeping or are planning to share the bed, a queen is a better option.

3. Consider Your Budget

Full Bed:

• A full-size bed is typically more affordable than a queen-size bed.
• If you’re on a tight budget, you might save some money by choosing a full bed.
• Not only is the mattress usually cheaper, but accessories like sheets and comforters are generally less expensive.

Queen Bed:

• While a queen bed costs more than a full-size bed, it’s still more affordable than a king-size bed.
• However, you may also need to budget for larger accessories like sheets and comforters, which tend to be a bit more expensive than those for full beds.

4. Think About Your Long-Term Needs

Full Bed: 

• If you’re purchasing a bed for a guest room or a child’s room, a full-size bed can serve as a more affordable option.
• It’s also a good choice for single adults who don’t expect to need extra room in the future.
• However, if you expect to have a partner share the bed, or if you plan to use the room for longer-term purposes, a queen might offer more flexibility.

Queen Bed: 

• A queen-size bed is a more future-proof investment. It’s the most common size for couples and will continue to serve you well as your needs evolve.
• If you’re not sure whether you’ll want more space or anticipate needing extra room in the future, a queen bed offers greater versatility.
• It’s also a great option if you’re furnishing a master bedroom that you plan to stay in long-term.

5. Assess Comfort and Lifestyle Preferences

Full Bed: 

• If you’re someone who doesn’t need much space and prefers a more compact, cozy bed, a full-size bed can be a good choice.
• It’s easier to move around in smaller spaces and can feel more efficient for those who don’t like too much extra room.

Queen Bed: 

• If you’re someone who likes to spread out, enjoys the idea of having more personal space while sleeping, or has a partner who moves around at night, a queen-size bed will likely feel more comfortable.
• It gives each person more room to sleep without disturbing each other, and it offers greater luxury overall.

6. Think About the Size of Other Furniture

Full Bed: 

• If your room is already filled with large furniture, such as a dresser, wardrobe, or desk, a full-size bed might be the best choice to avoid overcrowding the room.
• Its smaller size allows you to keep the room functional and organized while still providing a decent sleeping area.

Queen Bed: 

• A queen bed may require rearranging your furniture or using a room layout that prioritizes the bed.
• It works well in larger bedrooms where you can space out your furniture, but in tighter spaces, it may limit how you arrange other pieces.

7. Room Aesthetics and Design

Full Bed: 

• A full-size bed can give a room a cozier, more intimate feel, making it an excellent choice for smaller or more minimalist spaces.
• It can also leave room for more creative design choices, like adding extra furniture or decorative elements without overwhelming the space.
• However, it can sometimes look too small in larger rooms or make the space feel unbalanced.

Queen Bed: 

• A queen bed can serve as the focal point of a room, providing a more substantial, luxurious appearance. In larger bedrooms, it can create a sense of balance and openness.
• A queen-size bed also works well in rooms designed with a more relaxed, spacious vibe, offering enough room for decorative throws, larger headboards, or additional accessories like side tables and lamps.

8. Sleeping Style and Movement

Full Bed

• If you are someone who doesn’t move around much in your sleep and prefer a snug sleeping arrangement, a full-size bed may be just right.
• For single sleepers who don’t need extra space, it provides a cozy, confined sleeping area that may help you feel more secure.

Queen Bed: 

• For individuals who move around a lot during sleep, a queen-size bed is a more comfortable option.
• The extra width and length allow for more freedom to shift positions without feeling restricted, providing a more restful night’s sleep for those who need space to move.
• It’s also better for couples who tend to sleep in different positions.

9. Mattress Quality and Comfort

Full Bed: 

• Because a full-size bed is smaller, the mattress quality and comfort level might be a bit easier to maintain.
• A smaller mattress can sometimes be more affordable when looking for high-quality materials or specific features like memory foam or innerspring coils.
• However, depending on your body type or sleeping preferences, the limited space might affect how comfortable it feels over time.

Queen Bed

• With a queen-size bed, you have more flexibility in choosing a mattress that suits your sleep needs, whether it’s memory foam, hybrid, or latex. You can opt for higher-end models and still get the comfort of a spacious sleeping area.
• The larger size also tends to distribute body weight better, which can be beneficial for couples or individuals with specific sleep concerns like back pain or joint discomfort.

10. Accessibility and Convenience

Full Bed: 

• Full-size beds are generally lighter and easier to handle, especially when it comes to setting up or moving.
• The size makes it easier to fit through doorways and narrow hallways, which can be a plus if you’re someone who relocates often or has to navigate smaller spaces during a move.

Queen Bed: 

• While a queen-size bed provides more space, it can be trickier to transport or set up. It might require more people to help during a move, and it may not fit easily into tight spaces or narrow staircases.
• Additionally, queen-size mattresses can be bulkier to clean or maintain, though this might not be a big issue in larger rooms.

11. Future Bedroom Renovations or Use

Full Bed:

• If you’re uncertain about your future needs, such as moving to a larger home or having children, a full-size bed can be seen as a temporary solution.
• It’s great for a smaller living situation or guest room but might not be suitable for long-term use as your space or family grows. If you have plans to upgrade or renovate your space in the near future, you may find that a queen bed will be a better fit as your needs change.

Queen Bed:

• A queen-size bed is a more versatile investment for the long-term. It can transition with you through various stages of life, whether you move to a larger home, start sharing the bed with a partner, or need to accommodate additional guests.
• It also provides flexibility in terms of room usage; it can suit most master bedrooms or guest rooms without requiring future upgrades.

Which Should You Choose?

Choose a Full-Size Bed if:

• You have a smaller room or limited space.
• You sleep alone and don’t need much extra room.
• You are on a budget and need a more affordable option.
• The bed is for a guest room or temporary use.

Choose a Queen-Size Bed if:

• You plan to share the bed with a partner.
• You want more space to spread out while sleeping.
• You have a medium or larger-sized room and want a more comfortable sleeping area.
• You want a bed that can grow with you in the future.

Other Bed Sizes

In addition to the full and queen size mattresses, you’ll find four more mattress sizes in the standard size run.

Twin

The twin size mattress is 38 by 75 inches. The twin bed is the best size for compact spaces like college dorm rooms and studio apartments. It also makes a great choice for children’s bunk beds or beds that small kids can grow into over the years.

Twin XL

The twin XL mattress adds five inches to the standard twin size bed for a total of 38 by 80 inches. The twin XL bed retains the compactness of the twin size mattress while still being long enough for tall sleepers. This makes it a good option for multi-purpose or even multi-bed guest rooms. It’s also excellent for tall people who need a compact bed.

Our twin vs twin XL mattress guide compares the two, making it easier for shoppers to choose what works for them.

Standard King

The standard or eastern king size bed is 76 by 80 inches. This makes the king size mattress a fantastic choice for couples because each partner gets the same space they would if they were each sleeping on a twin XL. The king size bed is also a good choice to fill out larger master bedrooms that look empty with a queen in them.

We have also compared the king mattress to both full and queen size mattresses:

• King vs. Queen: Which Mattress Size is Right for You?
• King vs. Full Size Mattress: Which Mattress Size is Right for You?

California King

The California king bed is 72 by 84 inches. The Cal king size mattress is a wonderful option for those who are several inches over six feet tall. If you find your feet dangling even in a queen or king, you might want to check out this bed size.

See our California king vs king mattress guide for a thorough comparison of the two.

FAQs

Are there variations of a queen bed?

Yes. Aside from the standard queen, you’ll find two common variants. The Olympic queen is 66 by 80 inches. The Olympic queen is a good bed size for couples who don’t feel comfortable in the narrower regular queen but don’t have the space in their bedrooms for a regular or California king.

Just like the California king mattress, the California queen adds four inches to the length of the standard queen mattress for a total of 60 by 84 inches. This bed is a fantastic option for extra-tall sleepers who don’t have the space for a California king bed.

Is the full size bed a good option for taller sleepers?

The full size bed is too short for sleepers over six feet tall. However, if you need a narrower and longer bed, you have a couple of options. Those who want to stick to the standard size run could consider a twin XL. This bed size is perfect for compact spaces and those who find their feet dangling off of a full.

Taller sleepers who want a bed that’s the same width as the full should consider the full XL mattress. Just like the twin XL, the full XL bed retains the width of the regular full size bed while adding five inches to the length. This means its total dimensions are 54 by 80 inches—a fantastic option for taller single sleepers who don’t have the space for a queen.

Can Queen Sheets Fit on a Full Bed?

Yes, you can use queen sheets on a full bed, but they may not fit snugly. Queen sheets are designed for mattresses that are 6 inches wider and 5 inches longer than a full bed.

This can result in excess fabric that might bunch up. To improve the fit, you can tuck the excess fabric tightly under the mattress. Alternatively, consider purchasing full-sized sheets for a more tailored fit.

Are there hybrid sizes between queen and full?

Yes, there are hybrid sizes that offer alternatives for those who need specific dimensions. A common option is the full XL, which measures 54 inches wide and 80 inches long.

This size retains the width of a full mattress but matches the length of a queen, making it a great choice for taller sleepers who have limited space. Hybrid sizes like the full XL are less common and may require special bedding, but they can be a perfect compromise. These options help bridge the gap between the full and queen sizes for unique needs.

Do queen and full mattresses have different thicknesses?

No, the thickness of a mattress depends on its type, such as memory foam, innerspring, or hybrid, rather than its size. Both queen and full mattresses are available in a wide range of thicknesses, typically ranging from 8 to 14 inches.

The thickness is chosen based on comfort preferences and support needs. Regardless of the mattress size, the type of bed frame or foundation can also influence how the thickness feels. Therefore, thickness is not a distinguishing factor between queen and full beds.

Which is better for couples, the full or the queen?

The queen size bed is a better size for couples than the full size bed. The queen offers 30 inches of sleeping space per person, which is the bare minimum most couples need to sleep comfortably.

Meanwhile, the full only offers 27 inches of sleeping space per person. This is the same amount of sleeping space as a toddler bed or baby crib. Most average-sized adults cannot sleep comfortably with that little room.

Is there a noticeable size difference when upgrading from full to queen?

Yes, the size difference between a full and a queen mattress is noticeable, especially for couples or taller individuals. A queen mattress is 6 inches wider and 5 inches longer than a full, resulting in about 33% more surface area.

This extra space can provide better comfort, allowing two people to sleep more easily without feeling cramped. For single sleepers, the added length can also accommodate taller frames. The upgrade is especially significant for those seeking more personal space during sleep.

Is a full bed more eco-friendly than a queen?

Potentially, a full bed can be more eco-friendly because it requires less material to manufacture the mattress, bed frame, and bedding. The smaller size translates to a reduced carbon footprint during production and shipping.

Additionally, full beds take up less space, which may reduce the energy needed to heat or cool a room. For environmentally-conscious buyers, opting for a full bed can align with sustainable living practices. However, the eco-friendliness also depends on the materials used in the mattress and bedding.

Do two twin mattresses make a queen?

Two twin size mattresses don’t really make anything in the standard size run. Two regular twins would make a bed that’s almost a perfect square: 76 by 75 inches. This is not even the right size to be a short or RV king because the RV king is 75 inches long but 72 inches wide.

If you want a regular split king, you’ll need two twin XL mattresses in the same bed frame. If you want a split queen, you’ll need two 30 by 60-inch mattresses. You can get two twin XLs for a split king just about anywhere, but split queen mattresses almost always need to be specifically designed to be a split queen.

Will my queen bed work with an adjustable base?

Whether your mattress will work with an adjustable base depends on the material it’s made of, not its size. Mattresses require a lot of flexibility to be able to move with your adjustable base without breaking. Memory foam, hybrid, and latex mattresses all fit this bill.

The mattress you want to watch out for with an adjustable bed is the innerspring mattress. The open coil networks in innerspring beds are too stiff for an adjustable base. They will either “float” over the base rather than moving with it or outright break when you change your base’s position.

Bottom Line

Both full and queen size mattresses have their pros and cons, making them the best mattress for different kinds of sleepers. If you need extra legroom or more versatility, a queen is your best bet. However, if you need a more affordable or more compact bed, a full could be your new best friend.