Queen vs. Twin: What’s the Difference?

Queen beds are an ideal option for couples, but singles may enjoy queen size mattresses thanks to the extra sleeping space. A queen size mattress is much bigger than a twin bed. While two adults can sleep on a queen bed, a twin is only suited to singles. On the other hand, twin beds are perfect for children, but adults who don’t have space for a queen can sleep on twin beds.

When deciding on bed sizes, your budget, available space, and the number of people sharing the bed matter. In this article, we discuss the differences between a queen and twin size mattress and help you find the best mattress among common sizes available on the market.

What’s a Queen Size Mattress?

A queen size mattress measures 60 inches by 80 inches. Queen beds are popular both among single adults as well as couples. While single adults can stretch out and sleep leisurely on a queen mattress, they’re versatile enough to accommodate couples too.

Queen mattresses provide 30 inches by 80 inches of space to each sleeper, which may not be enough for couples who enjoy their personal space. But queen beds are an excellent option for couples who don’t have large master bedrooms for a king or California king size bed. Queen size beds are commonly found in guest rooms too.

Sometimes queen mattresses are also available in split queen versions, giving you the option to choose your preferred firmness level on your side of the bed. A split queen is a queen size mattress split in exact half for sleeper convenience.

Benefits

• Perfect size for single adults
• Can be used as a couple bed too
• Fits in smaller bedrooms

Drawbacks

• May be uncomfortable for some couples

What’s a Twin Size Mattress?

A twin size mattress measures 38 inches by 75 inches. Twin beds are one of the most compact size mattresses, hence they are usually found in children’s rooms. Twin mattresses are also bunk bed-compatible. Bunk beds are a good option for families with more than one child because it utilizes space, leaving more room for play.

A single adult can sleep on a twin size mattress. But it may not be comfortable enough for all sleepers. Combination sleepers who keep changing sleeping positions through the night may roll off the bed while sleeping on a twin. A twin is 5 inches shorter than a queen, so tall sleepers may experience discomfort sleeping on a twin bed.

But a twin bed’s compact size also has some advantages. Since it doesn’t take up a lot of space in your room, twin beds are preferred where space is limited. They may be used in smaller guest rooms, bedrooms, or studio apartments.

Benefits

• The compact size makes it a good fit for small rooms
• An ideal option for children’s rooms
• Bunk-bed compatible
• A budget-friendly option for single sleepers

Drawbacks

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

Difference Between Queen and Twin Size Mattresses

A queen size mattress is 22 inches wider and 5 inches longer than a twin. While a queen can accommodate two adult sleepers, a twin can accommodate only one adult sleeper. Average size sleepers who don’t toss and turn a lot at night can sleep on a twin bed, without any discomfort. A twin bed is a good option for single sleepers experiencing space and budget constraints.

Other Standard Mattress Sizes

If a queen or a twin size mattress doesn’t suit your needs you can choose from one of the other standard mattress sizes. When buying a new bed, space management is crucial. Ideally, you should leave 2 to 3 feet of space on all three sides (except the side against the wall). You should have sufficient walking areas in the room after arranging your bed and essential furniture, such as floor lamps, side tables, and dressers.

You can choose from one of the other popular mattress sizes such as twin XL, full, king, and California king.

Twin XL Size Mattress

A twin XL mattress measures 38 inches by 80 inches. It’s 5 inches longer than a standard twin. The extra length comes in handy for tall sleepers. Compared to a twin, a twin XL bed is a better choice for adults. They are common in college dorm rooms, shared adult bedrooms, studio apartments, and even children’s rooms.

Twin XL mattresses are also bunk bed compatible. Parents often prefer buying twin XL beds for children because growing teenagers need extra legroom.

Full Size Mattress

A full mattress, also called the double bed, measures 54 inches by 75 inches. It’s a great choice for a single person but doesn’t have enough space for two adult sleepers. A full size bed is 16 inches wider than a twin and can accommodate one adult and a child. Full beds are common in guest bedrooms and smaller rooms.

King Size Mattress

A king mattress, also called the Eastern king, is the widest of all standard sizes. It measures 76 inches by 80 inches. A king bed is an excellent choice for couples who enjoy their personal sleeping space. Both sleepers get 38 inches by 80 inches of space, which is the exact size of a twin XL mattress. In fact, two twin XL mattresses placed side by side make a split king mattress.

Split king mattresses are gaining popularity because they offer customization. Both sleepers can choose a mattress of different firmness levels on their side of the bed. Split kings are best suited to adjustable bases. Adjustable bases give you the opportunity to elevate your head and feet without disturbing your partner. Elevating your head and feet at your preferred angle relieves pressure points, improves breathing, and boosts sleep.

Even children can comfortably sleep with their parents on this big king bed if they don’t feel like sleeping in their rooms on some nights. But king mattresses require extra space. They are best suited for large master bedrooms.

California King Size Mattress

California king mattresses, also called the Cal king or Western king, are the longest of all standard mattresses. It’s 4 inches longer and 4 inches narrower than a regular king. A Cal king bed measures 72 inches by 84 inches. The extra-long Cal king beds are perfect for tall people.

Cal king mattresses are also available in a split version, allowing each sleeper 36 inches by 84 inches of space. Cal kings are big beds so you can comfortably co-sleep with your children. You need a large master bedroom for a Cal king bed.

FAQs

Should I get a twin or queen bed?

It depends on the availability of space in your room. A queen is an ideal option for single sleepers when you have space and budget for this size. Otherwise, a twin is good for average size adult sleepers who don’t toss and turn a lot at night. You can consider the twin XL size because it’s 5 inches longer than the twin, the length of queen and king beds. The difference in price between a twin and twin XL may be $50 to $100.

Is a twin the same as a double?

No. Twin beds are 16 inches narrower than double beds, also called full beds. An adult and a child can sleep comfortably on a double bed, but a twin is good for a child or one adult sleeper.

What’s the difference between a full and a queen?

A full bed is 6 inches narrower and 5 inches shorter than a queen bed. While two adults can sleep on a queen, a full can accommodate one adult and a child. Tall people may feel uncomfortable sleeping on a full.

Are twin beds too small for adults?

Twin beds may be small for tall people and active sleepers. It doesn’t provide enough room for stretching out and changing sleeping positions conveniently. If you are an average size sleeper who doesn’t toss and turn at night, you can sleep on a twin.

Are two twin beds equal to a queen?

No. Two twin beds placed side by side equals 76 inches by 75 inches, and a queen measures 60 inches by 80 inches. Two twin beds will be wider, but 5 inches shorter than a queen. In fact, two twin XL beds placed side by side equals the size of a standard king bed.

Conclusion

Both queen and twin beds can be used as single beds. If you have the budget and available space in your room, a queen mattress is the best option to sprawl and sleep. But when budget and space are limited, the twin bed is a smart option.