Queen vs. Twin XL: What’s the Difference?

Potential shoppers should consider size when looking for the best mattress—room dimensions and who the bed is meant for are significant factors in finding the right mattress for the bedroom. Two sizes in particular—queen and twin XL—differ significantly in size and versatility. A queen size is better for single adults and couples, while a twin XL is better suited to a single person.

Comparison Between Queen vs. Twin XL

When it comes to selecting the right mattress, understanding the differences between a Queen and a Twin XL can be crucial. Both sizes cater to specific needs, but they are quite distinct in terms of dimensions, functionality, and suitability for various sleepers.

Size Difference: The most obvious difference between a Queen and a Twin XL mattress is size. A Queen mattress measures 60 inches in width and 80 inches in length, while a twin XL mattress is 38 inches wide and 80 inches long. 

Fittingness: Queen mattresses are suitable for master bedrooms, guest rooms, or any space where couples might sleep. In contrast, Twin XL mattresses are often found in college dorms, small apartments, or children’s rooms. 

Layout Difference: A Queen mattress fits comfortably in a room at least 10 feet by 10 feet, leaving enough space for nightstands and walking areas. 

However, a Twin XL might be the better option if the room is smaller or has a unique layout, as it only requires a room about 7 feet by 10 feet. This makes the Twin XL an excellent choice for smaller bedrooms or shared spaces where maximizing floor space is a priority.

Budget is another critical factor in the decision-making process. Queen mattresses tend to be more expensive than Twin XL mattresses due to their larger size and greater material usage. 

However, the price can vary widely depending on the brand, materials used, and additional features like cooling technology or extra support layers. 

Regarding sleeping preferences, a Queen mattress offers more space, which can benefit those who toss and turn or prefer to spread out while sleeping. In contrast, a Twin XL is designed for single sleepers. 

Couples often choose Queen mattresses because they offer ample space for two people without the bulkiness of a King-sized bed. 

The Twin XL’s extended length compared to a standard Twin mattress makes it more comfortable for taller individuals who might find a regular Twin too short. 

What’s a Queen Size Mattress?

A queen size mattress is the most popular mattress size because of its versatility. At 60 inches by 80 inches, queen size beds provide extra sleeping space and more legroom for single adults and are a great mattress for couples with tight budgets or limited living space.

Queen mattresses are also excellent mattresses for guest bedrooms since they can accommodate one or two sleepers.

Variations

The standard queen size is also available in Olympic queen and split queen variations.

Olympic Queen Mattress

A variation of the queen bed is the Olympic queen, measuring 66 inches by 80 inches. The extra width provides more room for couples and luxurious space for solo sleepers. Olympic queen beds are typically found in RVs and trailers.

Split Queen Mattress

Though not as available as split king, split queen mattresses are two separate beds put together. Each bed provides 30 inches of personal space, not as much room as a split king, but couples with smaller bedrooms may prefer this mattress size.

SEE ALSO: Best King Size Mattress

Pricing

The cost for a queen size mattress ranges between $500 to $3000. Potential shoppers can expect to pay more for natural, organic materials and sleep technologies, like a zoned support system.

Recommended Room Space

Queen size beds are excellent additions to master bedrooms and guest rooms measuring at least 10 feet by 10 feet. This room size allows for a bed frame, furniture, like nightstands, and walking space.

SEE ALSO: Most Durable Mattresses

Pros

• Best for single sleepers
• Good for couples
• Extra space

Cons

• More expensive than a twin XL
• Heavier, more difficult to move

SEE ALSO: Best Adjustable Bed and Mattress Combo

Amerisleep AS3 is an excellent queen mattress choice, both for single sleepers and couples alike. It has a medium feel great for side sleepers and combo sleepers who switch between all types of positions. If you struggle to pick one bed with all the options, the AS3 is a straightforward pick.

The standard AS3 is made entirely of foam, but if an all-foam mattress doesn’t interest you, it has a hybrid alternative! The Amerisleep AS3 Hybrid is a bouncier, extra-supportive option for people who prefer the feel of traditional innerspring mattresses.

Regardless of which option you choose, the Amerisleep AS3 includes free shipping and returns, a 100-night sleep trial, and a 20-year limited warranty. 

How Lying Down Feels

The AS3 is built to provide a balance of softness and support. It’ll cushion your achy hips and shoulders without misaligning your spine. The memory foam design is built to hug your curves while supporting your head, back, and legs.

With the plant-based memory foam, cooling air channels, and moisture-wicking cover, you won’t need to worry about overheating at night. 

If you go for the hybrid variation of the AS3, the bed will be extra bouncy and responsive. It makes it easier to switch positions, get in and out of bed and increases air circulation throughout the mattress.

Inside the Mattress

The AS3 is made up of three foam layers: Bio-Pur® memory foam, Affinity transition foam, and Bio-Core® base foam. Encasing the three layers is a knit fabric cover that’s soft, durable, and cooling. 

Bio-Pur® is Amerisleep’s proprietary memory foam. Unlike most memory foam you’ll find in mattresses, Bio-Pur® is mostly made from castor oil. This results in a breathable memory foam that’s cushiony and pressure-relieving. It won’t cause sinkage or go lumpy the same way traditional memory foam will, either!

Affinity foam contains a technology called HIVE®. This foam technology is cut into hexagonal shapes to provide different levels of support for the body for optimal support and pressure relief. 

Bio-Core® is a durable and dense polyester foam. It’s built to withstand lumps, sagging, and other forms of wear so your bed lasts as long as possible. 

What’s a Twin XL Size Mattress?

A twin XL size mattress is similar to a standard twin but gives 5 inches of extra length for more leg space—the perfect size for tall people. Twin XL beds are small and compact—measuring 38 inches by 80 inches—easy to move and fit in most small bedrooms.

Twin XL size beds are also standard in college dorm rooms, making them ideal mattresses for teenagers and single adults. Once your child leaves home, they can take it with them to a dorm room or small studio apartment.

A twin XL size mattress is a perfect sleeping option for children too big for a crib mattress. Their small size accommodates growing children and fit bunk beds.

Pricing

The cost for a twin XL size mattress is about the same for a twin, varying between $100 on the low-end and $2000 on the high end. Price depends on the mattress thickness and the number of layers the mattress contains (more material, higher price tag). The price is also affected by special features, like cooling technologies.

Recommended Room Space

The best room size for a twin XL mattress should measure 7 feet by 10 feet to accommodate additional furniture, like a nightstand and dresser, and provide walking space. For families with more than one child, bunk beds are an excellent option, utilizing limited space.

Pros

• Budget-friendly mattress option
• Fits most bedrooms
• Perfect for children’s room

Cons

• Too small for couples

When buying smaller mattresses, like a twin XL, you may be trying to save money or buy a bed for your growing child. That’s why we recommend the Vaya Hybrid, an affordable hybrid mattress available in sizes twin to California king. It’s a great option for kids, budget shoppers, or even when buying multiple mattresses at once! 

A great thing about the Vaya Hybrid is its medium feel, which works well for all types of sleepers. This way, anyone can enjoy the low price and high quality of this bed. 

The Vaya Hybrid includes free shipping, free returns, a 100-night sleep trial, and a 10-year warranty.

How Lying Down Feels

The Vaya Hybrid is springy, but still soothes pressure and achy muscles. It’ll cushion the heaviest parts of your body—the hips, shoulders, and lower back—so you wake up pain-free.

Thanks to the longer length of the twin XL Vaya Hybrid, taller people won’t have to worry about bumping their heads or feet on the ends of their bed frame. Feel free to stretch out when sleeping on the Vaya Hybrid.

With buoyant foams and supportive coils, you won’t sink into bed and your spine will stay aligned. Healthy spinal alignment is crucial to sleeping well, reducing back pain, and improving blood circulation. 

Inside the Mattress

The Vaya Hybrid has a simple, but effective design. Under its knit cover is a layer of Vaya Comfort Foam. This latex-like material is responsive and supportive but cushiony. The bounce of Vaya Comfort prevents sinkage and makes it easy to shift positions and get out of bed.

The next main component of the Vaya Hybrid is its pocketed coil support system. Hundreds of steel springs wrapped in fabric fill the Vaya Hybrid. They’re built to last without squeaking or breaking. Vaya adds extra-firm coils on the sides of the mattress, which prevents saggy edges. 

At the bottom of the Vaya Hybrid is a thin, but durable base foam that absorbs shock and prevents wear.  

SEE ALSO: Vaya Mattress Review

Choosing Queen vs. Twin XL Mattresses?

Selecting between a Queen and Twin XL mattress involves considering several factors that go beyond just size. By carefully weighing the factors, you can make a more informed decision between a Queen and Twin XL mattress, ensuring you choose the option that best fits your lifestyle, comfort, and future needs.

Decide on which option best suits your needs:

• Body size / Height: Your body size and height are crucial factors when choosing a mattress. For taller individuals, both a Queen and Twin XL offer the same length of 80 inches, but if you need more width or have a larger build, the Queen mattress might be more comfortable. A Twin XL, while suitable for taller individuals, may feel too narrow for those who prefer to stretch out while sleeping.

• Mobility refers to how easily you can move the mattress or yourself within it. A Queen mattress, being larger and heavier, can be more challenging to move, whether rotating it for even wear or relocating to a new home. A Twin XL, on the other hand, is easier to handle due to its lighter weight and smaller size, making it a more practical choice if frequent moving is anticipated.

• Sleeping Arrangement: If you share your bed with a partner or a pet, a Queen mattress provides ample space for both, reducing the likelihood of disturbing each other during the night. A Twin XL is designed for single sleepers, making it ideal for children, teenagers, or adults who sleep alone.

• Room: The dimension of your bedroom plays a pivotal role in your decision. While the length is the same in Twin XL as a Queen’s, the width is significantly narrower. Therefore, a Twin XL is a better fit for individual sleepers, significantly taller adults, or teenagers. While a Queen is better in the case of individuals sharing beds.

• The Bed Frame you plan to use can also dictate your mattress choice. Queen bed frames tend to be more elaborate and come in various styles, offering both durability and aesthetic appeal. Twin XL frames are often simpler, but they can be ideal for minimalist designs or those needing to maximize storage space beneath the bed. Consider the material and design of the frame as well, as heavier frames might be harder to move.

• Medical Conditions can affect your sleep, such as back pain or sleep apnea, so the mattress you choose can make a significant difference. With its larger size, a queen mattress often accommodates more advanced or adjustable bed bases, which can benefit medical needs. A Twin XL is still long enough to support an adjustable bed base, making it a good option if you need a specialized sleeping position.

• Comfort: A Queen mattress provides more room to change positions, enhancing comfort for restless sleepers. A Twin XL might be more appealing, especially if you enjoy the support of being closer to the edges of the bed. The extra width in the Queen provides more comfort, making it a popular choice among couples who want to sleep close without feeling cramped. Twin Xl is particularly useful in rooms with limited space, as its narrower width frees up more floor space for other furniture or activities.

• Future Plans: Consider your future plans when choosing a mattress. If you anticipate moving into a larger space or starting a family, a Queen mattress might be a more future-proof option. It’s versatile and can adapt to changing circumstances. A Twin XL is more suited to temporary living situations, such as college dorms or small apartments, but may need to be replaced sooner if your living arrangements change.

Other Mattress Dimensions

If a queen or twin XL is not the right size for you, other mattress sizes are available, including twin, full, king, and California king.

Twin Mattress

Twin size mattresses are 38 inches by 75 inches. Their small, compact size makes them easy to move and a good fit for most bedrooms. Plus, since they’re smaller in size, they’re more affordable. Twin beds are an excellent choice for children and single adults—both twin XL and twin mattresses are also compatible with bunk bed frames.

Full Mattress

Full size mattresses (also known as double beds), measure 54 inches by 75 inches. Full beds used to be the most popular mattress for couples in the 60s, but since the rise of queen mattresses, full mattresses are now considered better for solo sleepers. Full size beds are best for teenagers and single adults.

Full XL Mattress

Full XL mattresses are 5 inches longer, measuring at 54 inches by 80 inches. Full XL beds are great for tall, single sleepers—the extra long mattress gives more legroom for tall sleepers to stretch out.

King Mattress

King size mattresses are 76 inches by 80 inches—the largest standard size available. King size beds are best for couples, providing 38 inches of personal space. Due to their large size, king beds are more expensive, difficult to move, and may only fit inside large master bedrooms.

Split King Mattress

Many couples prefer a split king over a standard king because the split king option is the equivalent of two twin XL mattresses placed side by side. Couples can have a bed suited to their personal preferences without having to compromise. Plus, if paired with an adjustable base, couples can also have the added benefit of elevating their head and feet without disturbing their sleep partner.

California King Mattress

California king size mattresses are 72 inches by 84 inches—similar to a standard king size, but longer and narrower, making a Cal king bed perfect for tall couples. A California king bed offers 36 inches of personal space to each person, less than a king size but providing more legroom.

Split California King Mattress

Split California king mattresses are two separate beds placed side by side, giving 36 inches of personal space to each sleeper. For luxurious comfort, add an adjustable bed frame—each person can elevate their head or feet without disturbing the other sleeper. A split California king mattress is not as accessible as a standard California king bed.

Other Things to Consider

How much bigger is a queen than a twin XL?

A queen mattress is 60 inches by 80 inches, while a twin XL bed is 38 inches by 80 inches. A queen size bed provides 22 inches more width than a twin XL. This makes it the perfect option for single sleepers looking for more luxury sleeping space, or couples on a budget.

Is a 6-inch mattress thick enough?

Mattresses thinner than 8 inches won’t provide the right amount of support because of the layers they lack. Thicker mattresses will offer better support, especially for plus-size sleepers and stomach sleepers who need a firmer surface for better support. Thinner mattresses are also more likely to wear down prematurely.

Do two twin XL beds make a California king?

No, two twin XL mattresses do not make a California king bed. Half of a California king mattress does not equal any standard mattress size. However, two twin XL mattresses side by side are the same size as a regular king mattress.

Can I put a twin XL mattress on a twin frame?

A twin XL mattress’s extra 5 inches will prevent it from fitting into a twin size frame. Even if the material is flexible enough to squeeze in, doing so will likely damage the mattress.

Similarly, twin size sheets won’t fit a twin XL mattress. However, you might be able to use twin XL bedding with a twin size mattress, although the fitted sheets may bag a bit.

Is a split king bigger than a king?

No, a split king bed is the same size as king mattress. The difference between the two is that a split king is divided into two mattresses, while the king mattress remains whole. A split king is an excellent option for couples who don’t share comfort preferences or plan on using an adjustable bed.

Conclusion

Queen and twin XL mattresses are excellent choices for any sleeper. Twin XL beds are the preferred choice for children and single adults; queen size mattresses are popular among single sleepers and couples. The mattress size you choose should be based on room dimensions and who the bed is for, making sure it gives enough space for a comfortable night’s rest.