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Queen vs. Twin: What’s the Difference?

Mattress Comparison
Read Time: 8 minutes
FAST FACTS
  • Queen and twin mattresses are distinctly different in terms of size and suitability, with queen beds being an ideal choice for couples and single adults, while twin beds are more suitable for children and single sleepers under 6 feet tall.
  • Considerations such as room size, sleeping preferences, and budget play a significant role in determining whether a queen or twin mattress is better suited for your needs, with each option offering its own set of benefits and drawbacks.
  • Other mattress options, such as Twin XL, Full, King, and California King, should also be considered based on individual preferences and space requirements, as they offer different dimensions and benefits that can cater to varying sleep needs.

Queen and twin mattresses are incredibly different, but sleepers often choose them for affordability. Twin beds are the smallest mattress on the market, while queen beds lie somewhere in the middle.

Though queens are not as big as king sizes, they are a hot choice for couples in the market for a bed. On the other hand, twin beds are much smaller but still provide single adults sleepers with enough space to sleep comfortably.

While you’re out hunting for your new mattress, we’re sure you’ll come across these two beds because they are the most popular among sleepers. In this post, we’ll take a deeper look at the differences between queen and twin beds.

What’s a Queen Size Mattress

Queen size mattresses are known as some of the most popular mattresses on the market. Most sleepers gravitate towards these beds because they accommodate single adults and couples. They measure 60 inches by 80 inches and provide couples with 30 inches by 80 inches of space per person. Split queen beds have also become a hot choice for couples.

A split queen is a dual queen bed with two mattresses measuring 30 inches by 80 inches. This allows couples to sleep more independently from one another.

Single sleepers will often choose queen beds over twins because they provide more sleeping space. Sleepers can sprawl out without worrying about their body parts draping over the edge of the mattress.

While many parents choose smaller mattresses, some may want to consider one as a mattress for teenagers. The bed can even be later repurposed as a bed for a guestroom after their teen moves out.

You can often find queen beds in smaller master bedrooms, and people who entertain visitors regularly may use one as a mattress in a guest room. You can place a queen bed in a 10 by 10 feet space without any issues when furnishing it with additional items.

Benefits of Queen Size Mattresses

  • Perfect size for single adults
  • Good choice for couples
  • It fits in small master bedrooms
  • Affordable

Drawbacks to Queen Size Mattresses

  • It may be uncomfortable for some couples
  • It does not fit in smaller bedrooms
  • More expensive than twin

What’s a Twin Size Mattress?

A twin size mattress is the smallest standard mattress and measures 38 by 74 inches. Since they are small beds, they are usually recommended for children and growing teens. However, some adults may find them as a suitable choice. We suggest that adults under 6 feet use these beds while taller adults may need a bed with more legroom.

One of the best things about twin beds is that you do not need a large bedroom to fit comfortably. These beds will fit into rooms at least 7 feet by 10 feet and still leave plenty of room to move around comfortably. You can also use twins as mattresses for kids who share rooms as they are often used and bunk beds.

Benefits of Twin Size Mattresses

  • A good fit for small rooms
  • An ideal option for children’s rooms
  • Bunk bed compatible
  • Affordable

Drawbacks to Twin Size Mattresses

  • It may not be comfortable for tall sleepers
  • Not enough space for adults to stretch out and sleep

Queen vs. Twin: Which is Better?

To find the best mattress, you’ll need to consider your sleep needs and preference. Only you will be able to decide which one is best for you. In this next section, we’ll give you an idea of what you should think about before you make a purchase.

Single Sleepers and Couples

Queen beds are a great mattress for couples. They provide enough space for both individuals, which will fit into most master bedrooms.

Plus, with some hunting, you’ll be able to find quality mattresses under $500. Twin beds are also an affordable option, but they offer less space. They are the smallest of standard mattress types and will be a good choice for sleepers who are under 6 feet.

Bedroom Size

Smaller bedrooms are better suited for smaller beds, so twin beds are usually great studio apartments. Typically, you’ll need a room that’s 7 by 10 feet.

Small rooms will not fit a queen bed, but a room 10 by 10 feet or larger will accommodate a queen bed with no issue. This is the smallest mattress size for couples we can recommend, so it’s perfect if you need to save on space but share with a partner.

Just be sure to provide yourself with enough space for bedroom decors like dressers, mirrors, headboards, and footboards.

Other Mattress Options

Let’s take a look at a few other mattress sizes that could be better for your sleep needs.

Twin XL Size Mattress

The twin XL mattresses are best for growing children, teens, and single adults under 6 feet.

Dimensions

Twin XLs only measure 38 by 80 inches; they are 6 inches longer than a standard twin bed.

Room Size

Twin XL beds are better suited for small rooms and studio apartments. If you plan to furnish your bedroom with mirrors or dressers, you’ll need a room at least 7 feet by 8 feet.

Full Size Mattress

Full size mattresses are perfect for sleepers who need more space to sprawl out for a better night of rest.

Dimensions

A full size bed is 54 by 75 inches. It’s a lot bigger than a twin but doesn’t offer enough space for couples.

Room Size

Full size beds fit best in rooms at least 9 by 9 feet. You should consider placing them in rooms at least 10 feet by 10 feet if you have bedroom furniture that is a bit bulkier.

King Size Mattress

King size mattresses are the widest of the standard sizes. They are popular among couples since they offer more space than a traditional queen. Most single sleepers will opt out of purchasing these mattresses since queen beds usually provide enough space.

Dimensions

A king mattress is 76 inches in width and 80 inches and offers couples and 38 by 80 inches of sleeping space per person.

Room Size

King beds are better suited for large master bedrooms. They will need to be placed in rooms at least 10 by 10.

California King Size Mattress

California king mattresses are another excellent choice for families and couples. They can be perfect for tall sleepers since they provide more legroom than regular king beds.

Dimensions

California king mattresses are four inches longer than a queen bed. They measure 72 by 84 inches.

Room Size

California king beds are the longest of the standard mattress sizes, and we’ll need to be placed in a room more than 10 by 10 feet. However, we recommend putting them in rooms 10 feet by 12 feet, and this will give you a little more space for additional bedroom decor.

What to Consider Before Buying a Bed

Price

Be wary of budget-friendly prices or too good to be true. You should always choose quality items over cheap items. Purchasing a cheap bed will only have you shelling out more money in the long run.

You’ll more than likely have to spend extra money to make repairs or even replace your mattress if you purchase a bed with cheap materials. We recommend investing in high-quality materials the first time around so you can hold onto your mattress for years to come.

Bedroom Accessories

Part of buying a new mattress is purchasing accessories that go along with your bed. You’ll need to get all the necessities, including a mattress foundation, sheets, and other mattress enhancers like mattress toppers or pads.

When looking for a foundation, you’ll need to consider the overall weight of your mattress and body weight. It’s best to purchase an item that supports both, so make sure your foundation is made with durable materials.

Finding the proper type of sheets is another thing you should add to your to-do list. If your sheets are too big or too small, they could pop off, and your bed won’t feel as cozy. Sheets sizes will usually match your mattress size, but you may need to go up a size if your bed is extra thick.

You are not required to purchase a mattress pad or topper, but it can benefit your sleep since they offer more cushioning. A mattress topper will add more height and thickness to your bed, so you want to make sure your sheet fits over all the bed layers.

Sleeping Preferences

The firmness of your mattress will play a huge factor in the overall comfort of your bed. Mattresses come in various firmness levels, spanning a mattress firmness scale. Most mattress companies rate their mattresses on a firmness scale.

Typically, the layers of your mattress and the construction of your bed will determine your firmness level. Take a look at the firmness scale here:

  • 1: Extra soft– These mattresses are extra plush and conform closely to the sleeper’s body.
  • 2-3: SoftSoft mattresses provide good sinkage and usually work best for light sleepers. Heavier sleepers are prone to sinkage on these beds.
  • 4: Medium Soft–Medium soft mattresses offer a little bit of sinkage and conform closely to your body.
  • 5: Medium–Medium mattresses don’t sink as much as medium-soft beds, but they still conform to your body well.
  • 6: Medium FirmMedium-firm mattresses do not sink much, but they conform moderately.
  • 7-9: FirmFirm mattresses have virtually no sinkage and minimal conforming.
  • 10: Extra-firmExtra firm mattresses do not provide sinking and do not conform to the body and other mattresses. They usually offer excellent support for heavier sleepers, but some people think they are ‘too firm.’

FAQS

What is the difference between a twin and a queen?

There are a few differences between twin and queen beds. One is they can not accommodate the same amount of sleepers. They also cannot be placed in the same kinds of bedrooms. Twin beds are made for single sleepers, while a queen bed can accommodate two people.

A queen bed will be too large for small rooms less than 10 feet by 10 feet. On the other hand, twin beds should fit perfectly in spaces 7 feet by 8 feet or larger.

Do two twin size mattresses make a queen size?

Two twin sizes do not make up a queen bed. The dimensions of a twin bed are 38 by 74 inches. Two twin mattresses would equal 76 inches by 75 inches, and a queen measures 60 inches by 80 inches.

Are there mattresses bigger than a queen but smaller than a king?

If you’re looking for a bed bigger than a traditional queen but smaller than a king, then an Olympic queen may be your best choice. Olympic queens measure 66 by 80 inches and offer couples more sleeping space.

They are not considered one of the standard sizes of mattresses, so they can be pretty hard to find. However, those who find these beds love providing more sleeping space without taking up as much room as a king bed.

Is a twin the same as a double?

Twin and double beds are not the same. Full beds are significantly wider than twin beds and can be a better option for single sleepers who want more sleeping space. A double is another name for a full mattress and measures 54 inches by 75 inches.

Are twin beds too small for adults?

A twin bed will provide enough room to sleep comfortably for most adults. It’s common for taller sleepers to purchase twin XLs because these beds offer six more inches of legroom.

Sleepers who are more than 6 feet tall should probably consider other options since twins do not offer much legroom.

If a twin XL is not what you’re looking for, consider purchasing a full or queen mattress. The beds provide you with more sleeping space and are an excellent choice for sleepers who toss and turn.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve taken a look at the difference between a queen and twin mattress, you should be ready to start your hunt for the most comfortable mattress.

Remember, your room size, and the amount of money you’re willing to spend on your mattress will be huge determining factors. Also, take into consideration the varying firmness levels for your mattress.

Queen and twin beds are trendy mattress choices, so you should not have trouble finding a quality mattress for a wallet-friendly price. Whichever option you pick should provide you with comfortable and restorative rest, but ultimately, you will have to make the best choice for your sleep needs.

Dorothy Chambers is our in-house sleep expert and a firm believer in the benefits of a daytime nap. With a background in psychology, Dorothy is fully aware of the impact sleep has on our brain, mood, and overall well-being. In an effort to help readers lead happier, more productive, and healthier lives, Dorothy spends her time researching the best sleep habits to help you fall asleep, stay asleep, and wake up feeling rested.

Dorothy Chambers spent years studying clinical psychology before joining us to promote a deeper understanding of sleep, along with some cursory research into biology and physiology. She’s particularly interested in the effects that different sleep positions have on the body. Later on in her career, she plans on pursuing a doctorate degree in behavioral sleep medicine.

Dorothy wakes up at 7 a.m. every day after a full night’s rest to better tackle a full day of work. After a session of morning exercise, she catches up on the latest sleep news and research before writing. She’s a fan of watching academic lectures, listening to scientific podcasts, and testing new sleep theories firsthand. Dorothy Chambers has written dozens of articles in her tenure with Sleep Junkie.

Her work has been featured on Home & Gardens, House Beautiful, Real Simple, Apartment Therapy, CNBC, Bustle, Yahoo! Finance, Fox 17, and even AARP.org.

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