Full vs. Queen Beds — How to Know Which Size Is Right for You
When you walk into a furniture store or browse the bedding aisle, it can be easy to get overwhelmed and lose track of all the different sizes. There’s an obvious distinction between a twin and king bed, but the difference of full vs. queen beds is a bit harder to spot. Below, we’ll explain how full- and queen-size beds vary and provide tips on choosing the best option for your space and lifestyle. You’ll also find a quick guide on where to buy the best mattresses, no matter which option you spring for (pun intended!).
What’s the difference between a full- and queen-size bed?
A full bed is smaller than a queen bed. A standard full-size mattress usually measures 54 x 75 inches, but dimensions can vary across different retailers. Casper’s full-size mattresses, for example, come in at 53 x 75 inches, and Beautyrest’s run 74.5 inches long.
A queen-size bed, on the other hand, typically comes in at 60 inches by 80 inches — six inches wider and five inches longer than a full. For reference, you can check out the standard dimensions for each mattress size below.
Twin: 38 by 75 inches
Twin XL: 38 by 80 inches
Full: 54 by 75 inches
Queen: 60 by 80 inches
King: 76 by 80 inches
California King: 72 by 84 inches
How to choose the right bed size
Full vs. queen bed size ultimately comes down to personal preference, but you can determine the best option for you based on the following:
- The size and layout of your space
- Your budget
- Whether you’re a single sleeper or sharing a bed
- What position you and/or your partner usually sleep in
- Your height
For example, a full-size bed fits into tighter spaces, but could look awkwardly small in a large bedroom. Similarly, a queen-size bed may be more comfortable for couples or a relatively tall person, but a full-size bed can still be perfectly adequate for many people. Because they’re smaller, full beds and mattresses usually cost less than queens, too, making them a more budget-friendly option, even if you have room for a bigger bed.
Where to shop for full and queen mattresses
Regardless of the size you choose, a high-quality mattress can help you stay comfortable and get a great night’s sleep. Browse a few editor-tested full- and queen-size picks below for every kind of sleeper, starting at $819.
