Twin vs. Full: What’s the Difference?

By Geoff McKinnen Certified Sleep Coach

Last Updated On November 22nd, 2024
Twin vs. Full: What’s the Difference?

When on the hunt for the best mattress, consider bed size. For a single person with limited space or a parent looking for a bed for their child, a twin or full size mattress could be the best option.

Larger mattresses, like a queen or king-size, may not fit in smaller bedrooms, but a twin or full will. They can be used in bunk beds, day beds, Murphy beds, and more to save on space.

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In our article, we outline the difference between a twin and full mattress, including the pros and cons of each.

Quick Guide: A 30-Second Summary

Best Mattress Overall Amerisleep AS3

What’s a Twin Size Mattress?

A twin size mattress is the smallest, most compact standard size available. Measuring 38 inches by 75 inches, twin size, or single beds, are perfect for children’s rooms and an excellent option for children graduating from a crib mattress.

Families with more than one child may find a bunk bed frame or trundle bed a great space-saver, leaving more room for play.

Twin Size Mattress

Twin size mattresses, sometimes also called single mattresses, are also a great choice for guest beds and limited living space, like studio apartments or dorm rooms.

Pricing

Pricing for a twin size mattress ranges between $100 to over $1500. High-end brands charge more since they include exclusive technologies and organic materials.

Below, we offer a breakdown of our Amerisleep mattresses in twin size.

MattressPrice
Amerisleep AS1$649
Amerisleep AS2$849
Amerisleep AS3$1049
Amerisleep AS3 Hybrid$1249
Amerisleep AS4$1049
Amerisleep AS5$1649
Amerisleep AS5 Hybrid$1949
Amerisleep Organica$1049

Recommended Room Space

The best room size to accommodate a twin bed should be 7 feet by 10 feet, allowing room for furniture and space to move around.

Pros

  • Perfect for kids
  • Small, compact size for easy movement
  • Bunk bed compatible
  • Least expensive mattress size

Cons

  • Too small for couples
  • Not ideal for restless, or combination, sleepers
  • May feel too small for some adults

What’s a Full Size Mattress?

A full size mattress, or double bed, measures 54 inches by 75 inches. The full size bed is perfect for single sleepers, from teenagers, college students, and single adults with limited sleeping space. Full beds are also great for guest bedrooms, though it might not provide enough room for couples.

Pricing

A full size mattress ranges between $500 to $2000 in cost, depending on its features and number of layers. Mattress companies charge more for special technologies and more materials because of the extra comfort they provide.

Below, we offer a breakdown of our Amerisleep mattresses in full size.

MattressPrice
AS1$849
AS2$1049
AS3$1249
AS3 Hybrid$1449
AS4$1249
AS5$1849
AS5 Hybrid$2149
Amerisleep Organica$1249

Recommended Room Space

For optimal comfort and best layout, a bedroom measuring 10 feet by 12 feet is best for a full size mattress. The extra space around the bed allows for walking room and space for furniture.

Pros

Cons

  • Not ideal for couples
  • Taller individuals may find a full size too short

Best Amerisleep Twin and Full Mattresses

We produce all of our Amerisleep mattresses in seven standard sizes, including twin and full sizes. We highlight some of our more models below, regardless of size, to help customers answer the question of “What mattress is right for me?”

Other Mattress Sizes

If either a twin or full size mattress isn’t for you, other available mattress sizes include twin XL, queen, king, and California king. These sizes could provide more space to accommodate couples and taller individuals.

Twin XL Mattress

Twin XL size mattresses measure 38 inches by 80 inches—5 inches longer than a standard twin. Twin XL beds are common in college dorm rooms and great for taller individuals.

See also:

Queen Mattress

Queen size mattresses are one of the most popular mattress sizes among single adults living on their own—they provide more room to stretch out across and a good choice for smaller master bedrooms. Queen beds are 60 inches by 80 inches.

See also:

King Mattress

King size mattresses are the largest standard mattress size available (76 inches by 80 inches)—the equivalent of two twin XL beds placed side by side. King beds are perfect for couples who want more personal space. A split king option is also available for couples looking for a mattress to fulfill their personal sleep preferences.

California King Mattress

California king size mattresses have the same area as a king size bed, but longer and narrower at 72 inches by 84 inches. Cal king beds are also a great option for couples, particularly those who like to sleep closer together. The split Cal king option is not as standard as split king beds, but it is available for couples looking to have a mattress based on their personal preference.

FAQs

Are twin beds OK for adults?

Twin beds can be suitable for adults, but it depends on individual preferences and the size of the adults. While twin beds are often used for children or in smaller spaces, some adults find them comfortable for solo sleep. However, taller individuals may prefer larger bed sizes like full or queen for more space.

Can a full bed sleep two?

Yes, a full bed, also known as a double bed, can technically sleep two people. However, it provides less space per person compared to larger bed sizes like queen or king. It can work for couples who prefer a cozy sleeping space or for guest rooms where space is limited, but many will prefer the extra breathing room a queen bed provides.

Do two full mattresses make a queen?

No, combining two full mattresses does not create a queen-sized bed, nor does it make any other standard bed size. A queen mattress is larger than a full mattress in both width and length, but not by much. When laid side by side, two full mattresses are 108 inches by 75 inches, exceeding the width of even a standard king mattress.

This would match the width of an Alaskan king. However, two full mattresses pushed together would be quite shorter in length than an Alaskan king, which is 108 inches on all sides.

Can two people sleep on a twin bed?

While two people can sleep on a twin bed in a pinch, it may not be the most comfortable option. Twin beds are designed for single sleepers and are relatively narrow, providing limited space for two adults.

For shared sleep, we generally recommend opting for a larger bed size like a queen or king. Even a full mattress can more comfortably accommodate two, though it’s not the best fit.

Can I use a full comforter on a twin XL bed?

Using a full comforter on a twin XL bed may result in excess fabric, as full and twin XL beds have different dimensions. A full comforter is designed for a standard full bed, which is wider than a twin XL. It’s best to use a twin size comforter to ensure proper coverage and a neat appearance on the bed.

However, if you have a tall bed or don’t mind excess fabric draping over the sides, you can use a full size comforter without incident.

Is a Twin or Full Size Mattress Right for You?

If torn between choosing a twin or a full mattress, it helps to look at who needs the bed. Twin or full size beds are great for children moving past the crib stage and for teenagers moving out. Both sizes are great options for single sleepers, no matter if they’re kids, teenagers, college students, or single adults.


About the author

Geoff McKinnen is a writer focusing mainly on the healthcare industry and has written articles on everything from foods to help you lose weight to the connection between Alzheimer’s and sleep. Geoff’s passionate about helping readers improve their well-being to lead happier lives. Outside of work, Geoff enjoys cycling and hiking and believes that by leading a healthy lifestyle, he can help others do the same.

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