Platform Bed vs. Box Spring: Pros, Cons + Differences [Guide]

• Platform beds are a type of bed frame with a built-in foundation typically built from metal or wood slats or a solid base.
• Box springs are a type of foundation made from wood with springs or coils inside. 
• Key difference: Platform beds have a built-in foundation that the mattress can directly rest on and don’t require additional support. Box springs are used in tandem with bed frames that alone cannot properly support a mattress.

Your choice of bed frame is important when deciding on a sleep setup since it impacts your overall comfort and mattress lifespan. Many people choose between a platform bed vs. box spring, as they are two of the most common options for supporting mattresses. 

Although both are popular options, they offer different sleep experiences. A platform bed is a modern-looking, low-profile frame that typically offers extra storage. Whereas a box spring is a classic-looking bed base that is placed on top of a foundation on a bed frame, giving extra height and an added layer of bounce.

Many people aren’t sure when shopping for a new mattress whether a platform bed or box spring will fit their needs. Rest easy with a better understanding of whether you should buy a platform bed or a box spring by using our guide below. 

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What Is a Platform Bed?              

A platform bed is a wooden, metal, or composite bed frame with a base that supports a mattress. The base is either slatted or solid. 

Due to the platform’s supportive, sturdy, and strong structure, you do not need to buy a box spring. Rather, you’ll place your mattress directly atop the platform, and voila! — you’ve got a comfortable bed. This no-hassle simplicity is possible because of the platform’s components and design.

Parts of a Platform Bed

A platform bed has two necessary components: legs and a platform. Though designs vary, many beds in this category are relatively low to the ground. 

They typically have cross beams from top to bottom or side to side (or both) to support the main platform. Beds with slats instead of a solid platform typically only have small gaps to provide a solid base for the mattress. Slats offer better overall ventilation, which enhances comfort, especially in hot weather.

Regardless of whether a platform bed is made of metal, wood, or a composite material, it must be strong enough to support a mattress and multiple people. Also, the platform may come with a headboard, footboard, and other accessories — none of which play a role in the structure.

Types of Platform Beds

Platform beds come in a range of functional to high-end fashionable choices, including modern-looking, traditional, and transitional frames. 

They offer built-in storage solutions using shelves, drawers, or a combination of the two.

Pros and Cons of a Platform Bed

When it comes down to it, a platform bed is unassuming, and it’s tough to find fault with something so affordable and effective.

Take a look at the pros and cons below to see if a platform bed suits your needs.

Overall, a platform bed is great for anyone who wants a base that will get the job done and let the mattress be the star player.

What Is a Box Spring?

A box spring is simply a fabric-covered, rectangular wooden box with coil springs. The box goes under a mattress and requires an additional bed frame. It provides support and a little bounce for mattresses with very little structural integrity. 

This foundation was invented before new mattress technology basically did away with the need for a box spring. Newer bed frame models, such as flat foundations, look like box springs from the outside, but instead of springs, they are composed of wood or metal slats. 

Flat foundations provide additional mattress support and height while incorporating sleek design elements of platform beds. Keep models like the flat foundation in mind when deciding between a box spring vs. a bed frame.

Parts of a Box Spring

A box spring has a wooden frame with vertical supports on each corner and parallel horizontal beams on each of the four sides. Inside, there are metal springs. These are usually connected to provide a solid base. Sometimes, springs are separate but placed in cloth pockets to remain vertical.

Most box springs sit on a metal or wood frame, supporting innerspring mattresses. These products come in regular sizes (twin, double, queen, king) so that you can match the dimensions of the box to the mattress and frame. 

While older mattress styles like spring mattresses require box springs for support, modern beds such as an adjustable bed frame or a slatted bed frame don’t use box springs.

Pros and Cons of a Box Spring

Some people are so used to box springs they don’t think twice about them — until their sleep quality starts to suffer. Box springs can sag over time, become noisy, and sit higher than other frame options, all of which can impact sleep quality, especially for those who struggle with mobility or are shorter.

Do you need a box spring? This depends on your existing sleep setup. Many modern mattresses and bed frames don’t require box springs.

Peruse the pros and cons of a box spring vs. a bed frame below to determine if it’s the right choice for you:

Now that you’ve got a view of the ups and downs, it’s time to decide whether a platform or a box spring is your jam.

Platform Bed vs. Box Spring: Key Differences

Selecting a bed frame that properly supports your mattress is essential. Otherwise, you may end up with a bed that sags in places and does not adequately support your body. 

Platform beds, with their built-in foundations, prevent mattresses from sagging. Box springs absorb shock but require an additional foundation for mattress support. This is a key difference between box springs and bed frames. 

A mismatched foundation could make noise whenever you turn over. In short, the wrong foundation can decrease the quality of your sleep. 

Here are some other essential factors to consider when selecting a box spring vs. platform bed setup.

Storage

If you are looking for extra storage space in your bedroom, a platform bed is a great choice. Platform beds typically have extra space underneath their frames, which is sometimes used for built-in storage options like shelves or drawers. 

Box springs require separate box frames, and storage will depend on the chosen frame. Some frames are lower to the ground and don’t offer storage space.

Compatibility

Mattress and base combinations affect the price and influence the overall quality of your sleep and comfort. Picking the right mattress is an important step in the buying process. 

Most people choose from five common mattress types to determine which offers the most support. For example, platform beds with slats pair well with memory foam mattresses. 

You can also opt for hybrid mattresses, which contain different layers of foam with a spring-like support system. Due to their unique design, hybrid mattresses can be paired with a variety of frames. 

Another factor impacting frame compatibility is mattress weight. You have to make sure your frame’s weight capacity matches the weight of your mattress, especially if you choose a box spring that adds extra weight to the frame.

Once you choose a mattress that fits your sleep needs, make sure to choose a compatible frame. 

Dimensions

Platform bed and box spring dimensions depend on the mattress size that you choose. Use the chart below for a clearer idea of mattress sizes. 

Box springs, when combined with innerspring mattresses, are taller and bulkier, but much lighter than platform beds and easier to move when rearranging a room. 

Platform beds are thinner horizontally and may offer more space for underneath storage, but models closer to the floor do not provide this attribute.

Comfort

Comfort can be a subjective factor. For some mattress buyers, it comes down to something familiar that matches their preferred sleeping position. Of course, getting a quality pillow and soft and breathable sheets can also affect comfort level. 

Box springs and platform beds have specific qualities that can help undecided bed shoppers choose.

People who sleep on their side often prefer platform beds, which contour to their bodies better and provide proper support to the hips and shoulders. This quality can prevent soreness from sleeping in an awkward position.

Platform beds, especially those with slats, also provide better circulation. If you sleep hot and prefer a cooler bed, the air movement allowed by this design can make a big difference.

Box springs, on the other hand, are not as breathable, but they provide more support when paired with innerspring mattresses. Some people prefer this level of support, especially if they suffer from back pain or another musculoskeletal ailment.

Health

The height of your bed, which is impacted by the choice of a platform bed vs. a box spring influences your health and safety.

Box spring bed heights may make it easier for older people to get into and out of bed, while a platform and foam mattress will require more effort. On the other hand, children may be safer in a lower platform bed, which will put them closer to the ground and lessen the impact of an accidental fall.

Mattress materials also impact health, so some sleepers with health conditions may require a specific mattress type that can be incompatible with a box spring.

Price

Depending on the material, brand, and size, a box spring can cost anywhere from $100 to $350. Platform beds range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars.

You may spend more on a box spring as it also requires buying a foundation, whereas a platform bed acts as a box spring and bed frame in one.

Aesthetic

Bed height is impacted by multiple factors, including aesthetics. Some people love the look of a tall bed and think it looks more luxurious, while others like that a shorter bed looks more modern.

The frame design options will also differ depending on your choice of box spring or platform. Box spring frames tend to look more traditional, while platform frames opt for a more modern aesthetic. 

Additional Mattress Base Types

While most people have a box spring or platform frame, there are additional types of bed frames to choose from:

• Flat foundations: They look the same externally as box springs, but have wood or steel instead of springs.
• Adjustable frames: Allow you to adjust the position of your head and foot so you can pick your optimal sleep position. 
• Panel frames: Many people compare panel beds vs. platform beds. Panel frames require a foundation or box spring to support the mattress. 
• Canopy frames: These regal-looking frames incorporate four tall posts to support a fabric canopy that drapes over the bed.
• Daybed frames: Function as both a bed and couch, making them a versatile and space-saving option for small spaces.
• Bunk bed frames: Great for shared spaces, this type of frame accommodates multiple mattresses and saves floor space.
• Trundle frames: Similar to a bunk bed or pull-out couch, this frame allows you to pull out a second bed from under the main bed.

Can You Use Both a Box Spring and a Platform Bed?

Platform beds don’t require box springs for support or comfort. 

A better option is to get a flat foundation, which is a cloth-covered frame like a box spring but without springs. These products increase ventilation and height while also providing a solid base for a hybrid mattress. The Purple Bed Frame is a long-lasting and supportive frame that also offers under-bed storage.

Platform Bed vs. Box Spring: Which Is Right For You?

Ultimately, your choice of a platform bed or a box spring depends on your budget sleep needs. A platform bed is compatible with more mattress types than a box spring. Box springs usually require spring mattresses.

For those looking at a platform bed, the Purple Metal Platform frame is a great low-profile and sturdy steel frame that offers a supportive, stable, and quiet sleep experience. It has sound-dampening foam and silicone grips to reduce creaking and prevent wobbling. 

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