Queen vs Twin Mattress: What's the Difference?

Choosing the perfect mattress can significantly impact the quality of your sleep. And one of the biggest factors to consider when choosing a mattress is size. Here, we compare the differences between a queen and twin-size mattress.

The main difference between queen and twin mattresses is their size. Queen mattresses measure 60 x 80 inches while twin mattresses measure 38 x 75 inches.

If you're considering other sizes outside of these two options, be sure to check out our other size comparison guides:

• Queen vs. Twin XL
• Double Bed vs. Full
• Queen vs California Queen

What Is A Queen-Size Mattress?

A queen-size mattress is a mattress that measures 60 inches wide and 80 inches long. As they are large enough to accommodate two adults while still providing some extra space to stretch out, queen-size mattresses are the most popular choice for couples in the US.

Aside from providing two sleepers with enough personal sleeping space, queen-size mattresses can oftentimes fit two adults and a small pet or child. This makes the mattress an ideal choice for young couples and small families.

The minimum bedroom size for a queen-size bed is 10 x 10 feet. In contrast, king-size beds require at least 12 x 12 feet of space. As such, queen-size beds are often the preferred choice in guest bedrooms and non-master bedrooms.

Pros

• It's just the right size for couples. A queen-size mattress is often considered one of the best options for couples. It's big enough to fit two people comfortably without eating up too much floor space that could otherwise go to furniture.
• It works as a great centerpiece in a master bedroom. Whether your bedroom is big or medium-size, a queen-size bed can stand as the main focal point of your bedroom. Smaller beds might look awkward in big rooms (especially with sparse furniture), and bigger beds might make small rooms appear even smaller than they already are.
• Large selection. As one of the most popular bed sizes out there, queen-size mattresses are everywhere. You'll be hard-pressed to find a mattress manufacturer that doesn't produce queen-size beds.

Cons

• It may feel too bulky in small rooms. If you're planning on getting a mattress for a non-master bedroom, you'll have to check if it can accommodate a queen-size bed. Queen beds work best in bedrooms that are at least 10 x 10 feet in size.
• May not be enough room for some couples. Queen-size beds are just big enough to accommodate two adult sleepers. But if you need extra sleeping space for a big dog or kids three and up, you'll probably have to upgrade to a bigger bed.

What Is A Twin-Size Mattress?

A twin-size mattress is the smallest of the standard mattress sizes. Measuring 38 inches in width and 75 inches in length, twin-size mattresses can only fit a small- to average-size single sleeper. Its narrow width means that it can fit in small and narrow bedrooms with limited floor spaces. As such, it's a common option for furnishing teens' bedrooms and college dorms.

Single adults can also make do with a standard twin. But bear in mind that this bed size doesn't leave much room for extra pillows or moving around. For reference, a twin-size bed is a full 22 inches narrower than a queen-size bed and five inches shorter.

Pros

• It's a space-saver. Twin beds are perfect for teens and young adults living in dorms. They take up very little floor space compared to the other bed sizes out there. The minimum room size for a twin bed is just 8 x 10 feet.
• It's relatively inexpensive. Since they take fewer materials to make, twin beds are often cheaper than larger sizes. As such, they're great for people who are on a tight budget.

Cons

• It doesn't leave you much room to stretch out. With limited space to move around, you might not be able to sleep well at night or do much else in bed.
• It's not suitable for someone with a bigger body size. People on the heavier side and tall sleepers may feel cramped in a twin bed. Twin beds are just about 6.2 feet long, which means that any sleeper over 6 feet has to either sleep in the fetal position or leave their feet dangling off the edge.

Difference Between Queen And Twin Size Mattresses

The biggest benefit of choosing a queen-size bed over a twin is more space. Being 22 inches wider and five inches longer than a twin bed, queen beds are simply more spacious and more comfortable for single sleepers and couples. 

Whether you prefer to sleep alone or with a partner, a queen mattress lets you stretch out in bed and have your personal sleeping space. This makes the queen-size bed an excellent option for restless sleepers who toss and turn at night, run hot in their sleep, or don't enjoy being too close to their partners once they drift off.

On the flip side, queen-size beds take up more floor space than twin-size beds. If you're a single sleeper with barely any room to spare, you're probably better off with a twin (or full) bed.

 

Variations In Twin And Queen Size Mattresses

Twin and queen mattresses are hardly the only options you have out there. Here are some variations you can consider:

Twin XL Mattress

The twin XL mattress measures 38 x 80 inches. Five inches longer than standard twin mattresses, twin XL mattresses are designed to fit taller teens and tall adults who don't mind sleeping in a narrow bed.

Olympic Queen Mattress

Olympic queen mattresses measure 66 inches in width and 80 inches in length. This type of mattress is six inches wider than the standard queen and can accommodate two adults and a small child or pet with some wiggle room to spare.

The biggest drawback to this size is that it isn't as readily available as most standard sizes.

Short Queen Mattress

Short queen mattresses measure 60 x 75 inches. They're just five inches shorter than standard queens and are the preferred choice in RVs and campers. As such, it's often called an RV queen mattress.

Other Factors To Consider When Deciding Between A Twin Or Queen Mattress

When buying any type of bed, make sure to think about the following factors first:

Room Size And Layout

How big is your bedroom? Is it square-shaped or rectangular? What is the placement of the doors, windows, and closet space? All these questions will help you decipher what size bed you should get.

Number Of Occupants

Naturally, the more occupants, the bigger your bed should be. Twin, twin Xl, and full beds are best for single sleepers, while queen, king, super king, and California king beds are best for couples and families.

Sleeping Preference

Are you a stomach sleeper, a side sleeper, or a back sleeper? Do you prefer to sleep in the fetal position or do you like being splayed out like a starfish? Do you sleep like a log or do you wake up at the slightest sound or movement?

For couples where one or both partners toss and turn, run hot, or wake up easily, we recommend going for a bigger bed to minimize friction in the bedroom.

Bed Frame Material And Design

Most bed frames are, give or take, two to five inches bigger than their corresponding mattress. However, additional features like headboards, footboards, and pull-out drawers can significantly impact how much space you'll have left for all your other furniture.

Other Standard Mattress Sizes

 

Which Bed Size Is The Best For You?

The best bed size is the one that compliments your lifestyle, sleep preferences, room size and layout, and the number of occupants. Using a twin bed can save you a lot of space, but it can only fit one sleeper. Queen-size beds, on the other hand, can accommodate couples (and a small pet).

But bear in mind that bed size is not the only thing you should be worried about when shopping for a new mattress. The material, firmness, and thickness of a mattress all play a part in its overall comfort, supportiveness, and suitability.

At Purple, we offer a wide range of mattresses to suit a variety of needs, from soft to firm.

Check out our product page to learn more about the bed frames and mattresses we have to offer!

Queen vs Twin Mattress FAQs

Is a twin the same as a double?

No, twin mattresses are not the same as double mattresses. Twin beds measure 38 x 75 inches while double (also known as full) beds measure 54 x 75 inches.

Are twin beds too small for adults?

No, twin beds are not too small for adults. At 6.25 feet in length, twin mattresses can accommodate most average-size adults. However, twin beds are often marketed toward teens and young adults.

Is a queen as big as two twin beds?

No, a queen-size bed is not as big as two twin beds. Two twin beds side-by-side measure 76 inches wide, while a queen measures 60 inches wide. Two twin XL beds, however, make a standard king-size bed.