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Can’t decide between a double bed and a queen size bed? Don’t worry, we’re here to help you out. Our team of sleep experts compared these two bed sizes to determine their pros and cons. Now let’s take a look at everything you need to know about double bed vs. queen beds including size, dimensions, and which type of person each mattress is best for.
Double bed vs. queen bed mattress size: What’s the difference?
A double bed mattress (also known as a full size) is 54 inches wide and 75 inches long. A queen-size mattress is slightly bigger at 60 inches wide and 80 inches long.
Queen beds are incredibly popular because they are a great option for couples who want something a bit cheaper than a king-size mattress. Personally speaking, just about every single person I know owns a queen mattress. It’s the most popular mattress size among consumers, especially in North America.
A full size bed is smaller than a queen but bigger than a twin. I currently sleep on a full-size mattress and it’s perfect for my body type. Which one is right for you? Let’s take a look at the benefits and drawbacks of both double and queen mattresses.
Benefits of a double bed
- Ideal for one person – If you’re someone who likes to stretch out and get comfortable, a double bed will have more than enough space for you. Although it’s definitely possible for two people to share a double bed, trust me it’s not going to be very comfortable. Couples are much better off sleeping on a bigger mattress size.
- More affordable than a queen size bed – If you want a slightly cheaper mattress then you should opt for a double bed. Even though the price difference between a double and a queen bed isn’t that great, you don’t have to spend an extra $100-$250 for a bigger mattress that you don’t actually need.
- Smaller and easier to move – Are you a single adult who’s living in a studio apartment? A double bed is the perfect choice. Since they aren’t as big as queen beds, they are also lighter and easier to maneuver through tiny apartments.
If you’re a single adult looking for a cheaper mattress that’s easy to move, go with a double bed.
Benefits of a queen bed
- Great for couples – Since a queen mattress is wider and longer than a double bed, it will have enough space for both you and your partner. Although it’s not as big as a king bed, it’s still preferred by most couples and it’s the most popular mattress size overall. See our queen vs. king comparison for more details.
- Provides extra legroom for taller sleepers – If you’re a little over 6 feet tall, a queen bed will have more than enough space for you to stretch out and take up space. If you’re a really tall individual, we recommend getting a California King instead which is 4 inches longer than a queen.
- They will fit most room configurations – Queen beds are the most popular mattress size on the market. They’re easy to fit in most rooms. Since it’s such a common size, it’s also very easy to find bedding accessories like sheets and duvets to pair with your mattress.
We recommend queen beds for couples, taller sleepers, and those looking for a mattress that’s the perfect size for most bedrooms.
How to choose between a double and queen mattress
Choosing the right mattress is definitely not easy. Getting the “perfect” mattress depends on what you’re looking for. Which one should YOU choose?
Space
Got a smaller bedroom? A double bed will be easier to maneuver and set up. A queen, on the other hand, is the best mattress for larger spaces.
Aside from bedroom space, you should also consider if the mattress offers enough room for you to sleep comfortably. A double bed provides more than enough space for average-height people. Taller individuals should opt for a queen instead to get extra legroom.
Sleeping partner
You need to consider how much room you need if you sleep with a partner. Theoretically, a double bed can accommodate two people but it’s going to be a tight fit.
We recommend that you go with a queen bed if you’re sleeping with a partner. Queen beds are both wider and longer than double beds and are specifically designed for couples.
Body weight
Another important factor to consider is the body weight of both yourself and your partner. Average-weight individuals will definitely get adequate support from a double bed, but we suggest that heavier-set sleepers and couples opt for a queen bed for more room and extra support.
Personal preference
Do you sleep alone? Do you like to stretch out and need something that offers significantly more space than twin mattresses? A double bed is a great option.
If you sleep with a partner, queen beds are much better since they’re both wider and longer than double beds. You and your partner will have more than enough room to sleep comfortably; but some couples might want an even bigger mattress such as a king bed, California king bed, or even a Family Bed XL.
FAQs
No, a double bed is 6 inches smaller and 5 inches short than a queen size bed.
It is possible but each person will have very little space to themselves. We recommend getting a queen bed if you sleep with a partner for a better and more comfortable experience.
No, a UK double bed is equivalent to the US full bed and therefore smaller than a queen bed.
A king bed measures 76 inches x 80 inches and is bigger than both a queen bed and a double bed.
Conclusion
Double beds and queen beds each have their respective benefits and drawbacks. Double beds are great for individuals who need extra sleeping space, and queen beds are ideal for couples and taller sleepers. Remember to take everything we mentioned in this article into consideration so you don’t end up with the wrong mattress size for your needs.
Next step: Read our guide to split queen mattresses. A split-queen is a unique mattress that’s the same size as a queen but has two independently-adjustable sides. If you and your sleeping partner have different preferences in a mattress, a split queen is the way to go.
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