Full vs. Queen: The Essential Size Comparison Guide

Everybody is different, and one mattress size doesn’t fit all lifestyles. Full and queen are two of the most popular mattress sizes, but it’s important to consider how they work for you. Choosing the right mattress size means you can sleep soundly knowing you won’t have to replace it for many years to come. After all, Purple builds mattresses that last 10 years or more! 

Queen mattresses are best for couples because they offer more personal space and comfort compared to full mattresses. For single sleepers, a full mattress is comfortable without being too big. While a full mattress can fit two people, the smaller dimensions can be uncomfortable for couples.

Besides sleeping arrangements, you must also consider room size, bedroom accessories, and other unforeseen factors. It may sound like a lot to take into account, but we’re making the process simple! In this article, we’ve compared full vs. queen mattresses for size, pricing, comfort, and other factors so you can have full confidence going into your decision.  

Full vs. Queen Comparison Chart

While there are many types of mattresses, size is one of the most important things to consider. All mattress sizes follow the same standards, which makes it easy to note their key differences before deciding what size works for your bedroom.

Here’s a quick comparison of full and queen mattress sizes:

Dimensions

The main difference between a full and queen mattress is the size. A queen mattress is 60 inches wide and 80 inches long. A full mattress is 53 inches wide and 75 inches long. The surface area of a queen is 4,800 square inches, while a full is 3,975 square inches.

Mattress height, or thickness, is not standardized but ranges between eight and 14 inches for a full, and up to 19 inches for a queen. Firmness also depends on the type of materials used. The best mattress thickness comes down to your personal preference.

A full mattress can fit two people, but it may not be comfortable for some.  A queen is the preferred option for couples due to its size, while a full is preferred for single sleepers. Mattress dimensions should fit your budget, comfort, accessories, and room size. 

Price

A queen mattress is usually more expensive than a full mattress because of its larger size. Quality full mattresses can range from $700-$2800, while queen mattresses can range from $800-$8000.

Mattress materials are a big part of the final price. Consider how much you should spend on a mattress, but make sure the mattress you choose is right for you. Purple has three collections geared toward different price ranges. While all are made with our proprietary GelFlex Grid, we've designed unique models that promote deep sleep across varying budgets.

Comfort

The best mattress size is one that provides optimal comfort. Consider your body type and how much space you want to share with your partner, including children or pets.

Full mattresses can provide comfort to single sleepers, but they can be less comfortable for couples. Couples need more space if they move in their sleep, own pets, or sleep lightly.

Queen mattresses are better for those who require  extra space to stretch and sprawl out. We recommend a queen if you plan to share the space with your children or pets.

Accessories

The difference between full- and queen-sized accessories is minimal. They’re two of the most popular mattress sizes for the average American, which means that bed accessories –– from pillows to blankets to comforters –– shouldn’t be difficult to find. 

The main difference is that queen-sized accessories cost more than full-sized ones. Queen mattresses need bigger sheets, bigger blankets, and more pillows. Full mattresses need smaller sizes and fewer accessories. 

Ideal Room Size

Bigger beds require bigger bedrooms. Full mattresses fit into bedrooms of 10 by 12 feet or larger, the common size of guest rooms and small bedrooms. Queen mattresses are a perfect fit for anything in the range of 10 by 10 feet to 12 by 12 feet, such a primary bedroom.

When it comes to side tables, full mattresses provide ample space for two on either side of the bed. A queen mattress can make it difficult to fit two side tables depending on the size of the room. Knowing your room's size will help you decide on the right mattress.

Full vs. Queen: Pros and Cons

Full and queen mattresses each come with their pros and cons. About 14% of Americans use full beds, an option often preferred by the 1 in 4 married couples that don’t sleep in the same bed.

The right mattress depends on your personal preferences and lifestyle. We’ve curated a list of pros and cons so you can assess the best option for you. 

How To Choose the Right Mattress Size

When it comes to choosing between a full and queen mattress there are a handful of factors to consider. Below, we list some of the most important factors that should inform your decision.

1. Consider Your Age

Older sleepers might need a mattress that suits their mobility needs and sleep patterns. A full mattress can provide enough room for a single sleeper who moves a lot. But older couples should consider a queen mattress that provides ample space for movement.

Mattress thickness is also important for older sleepers. Because there is no standard for this measurement, this has to be assessed on a mattress-by-mattress basis. For comfort, older sleepers should opt for a mattress and bedframe with a combines height of 24 inches. For example, a 12-inch mattress pairs with a 12-inch bed frame for a comfortable knee height.

2. Measure Your Room Size

Rooms can get cramped when a bed takes up too much space. Measure your room dimensions in order to determine an appropriately sized bed. Ideally, your bed should fit with enough room to walk easily and add furniture.

If your bedroom is 10-by-10 feet or larger, you can comfortably fit a full mattress. You can fit a queen mattress in a 10-by-11-foot room and still have plenty of space. Measure your room to help determine what size bed you should get.

3. Look At Your Budget 

A full mattress is typically the less expensive option comparatively to a queen mattress. A bigger mattress means you will pay more for sheets, pillows, and other mattress accessories. Since both a queens and full are typical mattress sizes, their accessories are easy to find in most stores.

Build quality and materials can impact budgets the most, however, the price difference between a queen and a full is minimal when they use the same materials. Remember that a mattress is an investment for your health as much as your comfort.

4. Count The Number of Sleepers

How many people or pets will be using the bed simultaneously? Although both mattress sizes can work for couples, you may need more space to suit your lifestyle.

For couples, a queen mattress can provide adequate room while leaving space for your children and pets. A full bed may be too cramped if you plan to sleep with your partner, children, or pets.

For single sleepers, a queen can be too spacious and may not be worth the extra expense. In this case, a full or double bed might be perfect, but if you plan to upgrade soon, opting for a queen now may save you money and energy in the long run. 

Consider The Size of Sleepers

Body size counts when choosing between beds. Queen mattresses are at least five inches longer than a full, making them the preferable option for taller sleepers. If you’re shorter, a full mattress may be the better option.

Queen mattresses are comfortable for people up to a maximum height of 7 feet, 1 inch. Full-size mattresses will be comfortable for sleepers up to a maximum height of 6 feet, 7 inches. You can adjust these measurements to account for your children and pets.

Choose Your Firmness

Firmness levels are the same between full and queen mattresses. At Purple, we offer a variety of firmness levels for our full and queen beds. While the right mattress firmness suits your personal preferences, it’s important to recongize the distinction between a firm mattress and a mattress that provides support.

Think About Movability 

Queen mattresses can be cumbersome when it comes to moving, but full mattresses don’t lessen the burden by much. You will need a pickup truck or large van to move either.

If you enjoy rearranging your room, a full mattress can be easier to lift and place, while thedimensions of a queen mattress can be more limiting.

FAQ

You might still have many questions about full vs. queen mattresses. After all, there’s a lot to consider! Here you can get quick answers to your mattress questions.

Is a Full the Same as a Queen?

No, a full is not the same as a queen mattress. A full mattress that typically measures  53 by 75 inches is smaller than a queen that typically measures 60 by 80 inches. A queen mattress is seven inches wider and five inches taller than a full mattress.

Who Is a Full-Size Bed Good For?

Full beds are best for single sleepers. Couples can fit in a full bed if they don’t sleep lightly or don’t require much personal space. The decision comes down to your preference, budget, room size, body size, and how many will sleep with you.

Is It Better to Get a Queen or Full?

The better option between a queen or full mattress depends on your preferences. Use our mattress comparison guide to assess your needs and find the right mattress.

A full mattress is typically the best option for single sleepers or those on a budget. A queen mattress is most preferred by couples or tall people who need more space and comfort. 

Can Two Adults Sleep On A Full Mattress?

A full mattress can fit two adults who are comfortable sleeping close together. For most people, a full mattress is just enough room for two. 

A full mattress might not work for adult couples who sleep lightly or move a lot in their sleep. Taller people tend to struggle to fit in a full mattress and instead opt for a queen.

Can I Put Queen Sheets On A Full Bed?

Yes, you can put queen sheets on a full bed. The issue is that queen sheets are larger than full sheets, so they will fit loosely.

You can tuck extra sheet fabric under your full mattress to make queen sheets fit, but elastic sheets won’t fit snugly, ruining your chances of getting a neat corner. 

You now understand the key differences between a full and queen mattress. All that’s left is making a choice! A good mattress can last you a decade, so do your research and choose the right one for your needs. 

At Purple, we offer a 10-year warranty, a 100-night trial, free shipping, and free returns on all our mattresses