Twin XL vs. Full: What’s the Difference?

By Geoff McKinnen Certified Sleep Coach

Last Updated On January 24th, 2024
Twin XL vs. Full: What’s the Difference?

In looking for the best mattress, consider the size of the bedroom—the amount of available space is a significant factor in determining the right size. Larger beds fit best in master bedrooms with ample space for furniture and movement, while smaller mattresses, like twin XL or full, are better for smaller bedrooms or studio apartments.

What’s a Twin XL Size Mattress?

Twin XL size mattresses are similar to the standard twin size, except they’re 5 inches longer at 38 inches by 80 inches. The extra length is perfect for taller sleepers who need more legroom. Twin XL mattresses are also ideal for children—families with more than one child can use bunk bed frames to create more play space for their children. Twin XL beds are commonly found in college dorm rooms, and an excellent option for kids, teenagers, and adults with limited living space.

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Pricing

The price for a twin XL mattress varies, depending on what types of materials they contain, but potential shoppers can expect to pay between $150 to $1500 for a twin XL bed.

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

MattressPrice
Amerisleep AS1$699
Amerisleep AS2$899
Amerisleep AS3$1099
Amerisleep AS3 Hybrid$1299
Amerisleep AS4$1099
Amerisleep AS5$1699
Amerisleep AS5 Hybrid$1999
Amerisleep Organica$1099

Recommended Room Space

Full vs Twin XL

A bedroom 8 feet by 10 feet is the best room size for twin XL mattresses. These smaller bedrooms can accommodate a bed and furniture, plus provide extra walking space.

Pros

  • Small size great for limited living spaces
  • Extra length for more legroom
  • Compatible with bunk beds
  • Perfect for children and college dorm rooms

Cons

  • Not enough sleeping space for combination sleepers
  • May feel too small for some individuals
  • Single sleepers only—not enough room for couples

What’s a Full Size Mattress?

A full size mattress measures 56 inches by 75 inches—over 16 inches of extra space to sprawl out. Full mattresses, also known as “double beds,” are excellent choices for teenagers, combination sleepers, and single adults with small living spaces, like studio apartments. Full size beds are also great for guest rooms.

Full beds are also available in full XL size—measuring 54 inches by 80 inches, full XL size mattresses are extra long mattresses for taller sleepers.

Pricing

The cost of a full size mattress ranges between $500 to $2000. The price depends on what sleep technologies and materials are included—generally, mattresses with organic materials or zoned support layers will cost more.

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

The best bedroom size to fit full size mattress dimensions is 10 feet by 12 feet, leaving space for furniture and room to walk.

Pros

  • Perfect for teenagers, combination sleepers, and single adults
  • More room to stretch out
  • Great for guest bedrooms

Cons

  • Too small for couples
  • Too short for taller sleepers

Other Mattress Sizes

If a twin XL or full size mattress isn’t for you or suitable for your guest bedroom, different mattress sizes, including twin, queen, king, and California king, might be a better choice.

Twin Mattress

Twin size mattresses, or single beds, measure 38 inches by 75 inches—the smallest, most compact bed size in the industry. Twin size beds are perfect for kids, fitting comfortably inside bunk bed frames and able to accommodate a child’s growing body. Plus, twin beds are easy to maneuver because of their small size.

Shoppers may struggle to choose between the two twin sizes, which is why we have compiled a twin vs twin XL mattress guide.

Queen Mattress

Queen size mattresses are 60 inches by 80 inches, one of the most popular mattress sizes for single adults. Queen size beds have more room to stretch across and plenty of legroom for taller sleepers. Queen beds are also a good fit for couples who like to sleep close to each other.

Some shoppers may debate between a full and queen mattress since the two have similar dimensions. Often, the main deciding factor is whether they plan to sleep alone in the bed or with a partner. We do not recommend full size mattresses for couples because they will usually feel cramped.

King Mattress

A king size mattress measures 76 inches by 80 inches, the largest standard mattress size, and the best choice for couples, giving more personal space to each sleeper. King size beds are also available as a split king mattress for couples with different comfort needs.

To create a split king, two twin XL mattresses placed side by side make up a standard king. So a split king bed enables sleepers to have their custom mattress, suited to their needs without compromise. See also twin XL vs split king.

California King Mattress

A California king size mattress has the same area as a standard king, except it’s longer and narrower, measuring at 72 inches by 84 inches. Cal king beds are also an excellent choice for couples, especially those who like to sleep closer together. A split California king size is also available for separate comfort and support, though it’s more difficult to find than a traditional split king.

For an in-depth comparison, see king vs. California king mattress guide.

FAQs

What is the difference between a twin and a twin XL?

Twin and twin XL mattresses have the same width, but a twin XL has 5 inches extra length, perfect for taller individuals who need more legroom.

Can twin sheets fit on a twin XL?

Twin XL mattresses are 5 inches longer than a standard twin size. Because of their extra length, twin size sheet sets may not fit twin XL beds. However, two twin XL fitted sheets plus a king-size flat sheet will fit a split king mattress perfectly.

Can two adults sleep on a full mattress?

A full size mattress may be too small for couples—it only allows 27 inches of space for each person and is only 75 inches long, which may not appeal to taller sleepers. A queen, king, or Cal king would be a better fit for couples.

Is a Twin XL or Full Size Mattress Right for You?

Both twin XL and full size mattresses are excellent choices for the bedroom and the perfect option for studio bedroom apartments and small living spaces. Their smaller sizes fit better, leaving more walking space and room for furniture. Twin XL mattresses are better for taller individuals, while full size beds are better for combination sleepers.


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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