Box Spring vs. Foundation: Key Differences + How To Choose

What is the difference between a box spring and a foundation?

• Box springs and foundations are two structurally different types of mattress bases that support specific mattress types.
• A box spring is a type of wooden base that contains spring coils. It’s typically only compatible with innerspring mattresses.
• A foundation is a type of support system for your mattress, typically made of wood or metal. It’s compatible with a range of mattress types.

If you're looking for a new mattress, you may be debating box spring vs. foundation. Although they have similar functions, there are key differences between the two.

While box springs and foundations both provide added height and support to a mattress, they’re structurally different in order to support specific mattress types.

Your choice will ultimately depend on your needs, budget, and room space. If you’re struggling to choose between a box spring or foundation, this guide will help put your decision into perspective.

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Suited for all mattress types, the Purple Foundation provides structure and support with a minimalist look.

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What Is A Box Spring?

A box spring is a wooden base that contains spring coils and a fabric topper. Box springs are designed to evenly distribute weight and absorb impact while you sleep, providing extra support for your back and spine. This type of bed frame often changes the feel of the mattress with the additional bounce it provides and can potentially boost longevity. 

Due to their weight capacity limit, box springs are typically only compatible with innerspring mattresses (as opposed to memory foam, hybrid, or gel mattresses). Box spring frames are also less common than box spring alternatives like modern flat foundations that feature metal or wood slates. 

If you have an older bed or are unsure whether your mattress needs a box spring, it's always best to check with the manufacturer before buying bed support.

Pros and Cons of Box Springs

Since box springs have an inner coil system, they increase airflow and keep you cool while you sleep. This coil system increases shock absorption, which reduces motion transfer, distributes weight evenly, and prevents premature sagging. Box springs also sit high off the ground, which makes getting in and out of bed quicker and easier. 

That said, there are some notable disadvantages to box springs. Since box spring foundations are made of wood, they are prone to faster wear and tear than other bed bases. The more brittle and less flexible the wood becomes over time, the quicker your mattress will sag. When box spring coils rust and age, they also tend to creak, keeping you awake at night.

What Is A Bed Foundation?

A bed foundation is a type of support system for your mattress with slats running from side to side or, in certain constructions, a solid wood top with a cover over it. A foundation is typically made of wood or metal and provides a flat, sturdy surface for your mattress to help extend its lifespan. 

Unlike box springs, foundations are designed for enhanced support and can help boost mattress firmness. With this added support, you have the option of foregoing a box spring and placing your mattress directly on your foundation. 

Bed foundations also come in various heights and styles, like adjustable bases and platform beds, but all typically have slats that support your mattress. These slats are usually spaced 2-2.75 inches apart for optimum weight distribution.

Ultimately, the right kind of bed foundation will likely depend on your mattress type and preferred support style. 

Pros and Cons of Foundations

Foundations offer similar benefits as box springs when it comes to providing additional structural support, breathability, and durability. Unlike box springs, the addition of slats allows foundations to relieve pressure points and distribute weight without any give. They’re also compatible with almost all mattress types.

Because foundations lack an inner coil system, you can expect to feel less bounce in your sleep. If you tend to toss and turn, a foundation may not distribute weight as quickly. Foundations are also firmer than box springs and may be uncomfortable for sleepers who prefer soft sleeping surfaces.

Differences Between A Box Spring and Foundation: How They Compare

Box springs and foundations generally serve the same purpose but have many crucial differences. Foundations tend to be more compatible with a wide variety of mattress types. Older box springs can sometimes wear unevenly, leading to mattress sagging. 

Consider the following factors before choosing which one to buy.

Support

Box springs provide some give but also provide extra bounce due to their coil springs. A box spring might be best for you if you tend to move in your sleep or prefer a softer base. If you want to make your mattress feel firmer, consider a foundation instead. With metal or wood slats, a foundation offers a hard base to reduce motion transfer and offer a firmer feel. 

Mattress Compatibility

One of the most crucial factors you should consider when choosing a base is what type of mattress you have. While box springs only fit innerspring mattresses, foundations are compatible with most mattresses, including hybrid, foam, and gel. 

If you have a more modern mattress, opt for a foundation.If you have an innerspring mattress, a box spring will likely suit your needs best. 

Materials and Construction

Box springs and foundations differ considerably in materials used. Box springs consist of a wooden frame, coils, and a fabric topper, whereas foundations are typically made of solid wood or metal. These differences impact many factors from the support offered to price and breathability. 

Durability

Along with knowing how often to replace your mattress, it’s also key to understand how long your bed frame will last. Compared to box springs whose inner coil system can wear down quickly over time, foundations are more durable and less likely to break. This is also, in part, why foundations tend to cost more money as they’re made with solid materials that last longer. 

Weight

Since foundations are built from solid wood or metal, they tend to be much heavier than box springs. This can make moving the base more difficult, but the added weight can also be a positive in preventing the frame from moving when tossing and turning through the night. On the other hand, box springs tend to be lighter weight and easier to move with a mattress.

Breathability

Because box springs have an inner coil system and are not as dense as foundations, they are often more airy and breathable — but that’s not always the case.

If you’re leaning toward a foundation but are worried about airflow, you can increase air circulation by picking a foundation with slats that are farther apart from each other. This will leave additional room for air to flow in and out, keeping you cooler at night.

Price

Box springs are more affordable, typically costing between $100 and $300 for a queen size bed frame. On the other hand, foundations can cost quite a bit more, often priced between $400 and $600. Some foundations even have adjustable frames to support custom sleep positions — these can cost up to $1,000.

Ultimately, how much you pay for a box spring or foundation depends on the frame size, material, make, and brand.

Box Spring vs. Foundation vs. Platform

You now know the differences between box springs and foundations, but how do they compare to platform frames? While both box springs and foundations are solid rectangular bases with fabric coverings that help to make your bed higher, platform beds are designed with a layer of wooden slats spaced out from side to side. 

With a platform bed, your mattress rests directly on the wooden slates, leaving plenty of airflow to circulate through the spaces. This is different from box springs and foundations, which offer a deeper, more solid base. 

Get the Best Support for Your Mattress

So, which should you choose: a mattress box spring vs. foundation? While box springs may seem outdated, they can be a good lower-cost alternative if compatible with your mattress. Foundation and platform bases are better suited for more modern mattresses. 

Foundations often provide a longer-lasting and more supportive experience, while box springs can wear unevenly and lack durability. 

When it comes to what frame goes best under your mattress, Purple offers a number of bed frames and foundations that are compatible with most mattresses and help elevate your support for better sleep. 

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