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You’re looking for a new mattress but can’t decide between a full vs queen mattress. Use this bed size comparison guide to find the right fit for your sleep needs and bedroom space.
A queen-size bed offers more space for couples and tall sleepers. But a full-size bed is cheaper than a queen and perfect for smaller rooms.
Choosing the right mattress size is an important decision for your sleep quality. I’ll break down what makes each mattress different to help you make a confident decision.
Full vs Queen Size – Quick Comparison Chart
This full vs queen mattress size comparison chart highlights the key differences.
| Feature | Full-Size Mattress | Queen Size Mattress |
|---|---|---|
| Width | 54 inches | 60 inches (6 inches wider) |
| Length | 75 inches | 80 inches (5 inches longer) |
| Surface Area | 4,050 sq. inches | 4,800 sq. inches |
| Occupancy | 1 adult or cozy couples | 2 adults or 1 adult + pet/kid |
| Best For | Singles, guest rooms, dorm rooms | Couples, taller sleepers, spacious bedrooms |
| Average Cost | $500 – $1,500 | $800 – $2,500 |
| Room Size Requirements | At least 10′ x 10′ | At least 10′ x 12′ |
What Is a Full-Size Mattress?
A full-size mattress is a bed that measures 54 inches wide by 75 inches long. It offers more space than a twin but is smaller than a queen. Full-size beds are ideal for single adults, teens, or guest rooms with limited space.
A full or double bed is best suited for one person. Two adults may not comfortably fit on a full mattress. The limited width only gives each person 27 inches of space.
What Is a Queen-Size Mattress?
A queen-size mattress is a bed that measures 60 inches wide by 80 inches long. It provides more room than a full-size mattress and can sleep two adults. Queen-size beds fit most bedrooms while offering both comfort and space efficiency.
Queen mattresses are the most popular choice for couples. It’s also a great option for single sleepers who like extra space to spread out.
Pros and Cons of Full vs Queen Beds
Your mattress choice impacts sleep quality for years. Here’s how full and queen-size options stack up against each other.
Pros of a Full-Size Mattress
- Costs $200–$500 less than a standard queen size
- Lighter and easier to move, rotate, or set up
- Fits well in smaller bedrooms like 10’×10′ or smaller
- Perfect for solo sleepers who don’t toss and turn
- Leaves more space for other furniture and walking space
Cons of a Full-Size Mattress
- Feels tight for couples with only 27 inches each
- Too short for tall sleepers over 5’10”
- Gets crowded fast with pets or kids in bed
- Fewer options and features compared to queen-size
- Can feel cramped for active or restless sleepers
Sleep better tonight. Our mattresses combine comfort and support.
Pros of a Queen-Size Mattress
- Offers more room for couples with 30 inches each
- Perfect for taller sleepers (5 inches longer than a full)
- Fits well in standard 10’×12′ bedrooms or larger
- Better investment as your needs or space change
- Great for people who change sleeping positions often
Cons of a Queen-Size Mattress
- Cost more than full-size mattresses by $200-500
- Heavier to carry or move (difficult in apartments with stairs)
- Too large for smaller bedrooms under 10’×11′
- Less room for other furniture in smaller rooms
- Sheets, frames, and accessories cost more than full-size
Sharing a bed? Stop fighting for space—get a queen.
Key Differences Between Full and Queen Beds
Still not sure which size and dimensions fit your sleep? This breakdown makes choosing the best mattress easy.
Size & Space – How Much Room Do You Get?
A queen mattress gives you more space than a full:
- 6 inches wider (60″ vs 54″) – More room between partners
- 5 inches longer (80″ vs 75″) – Better for taller people
- 18% more surface area (4,800 vs 4,050 square inches)
The size difference between a queen and a full matters most for couples. Two adults in a full bed get about 27 inches each. A queen bed gives you 30 inches each.
Taller sleepers also benefit from the queen’s 80-inch length. The larger size prevents feet from hanging off the edge.
Also Read: King vs Queen Size Mattress
Sleeping Comfort – Which Feels Better?
Mattress comfort depends on your sleep situation:
- Full beds: Perfect for single sleepers who don’t move much
- Queen beds: Provide couples with enough space to avoid disturbances
- Single sleepers: Both sizes work, but queens allow more movement
Couples on full mattresses bump into each other throughout the night. This causes sleep disruptions. Queen beds provide more room and reduce overheating issues.
The larger mattress matters more than the type of mattress for most couples. If you sleep with a partner, opt for a queen.
Budget – Which Costs More?
Queen mattresses cost more in every category:
- Initial purchase: Queens cost $200-500 more than full models
- Bed frames: Queen frames average $100 more than full-size frame options
- Bedding sets: Queen sheets and comforters cost 15-25% more
- Mattress thickness: Height options may also affect price regardless of size
- Mattress height: Thicker models may raise the price, regardless of size
Full mattresses win on cost. You save on the mattress, frame, and every bedding item.
Still, think long-term. An extra $300 spread over 10 years is $30 a year. That small annual difference might be worth the extra comfort.
Maneuverability – Which Is Easier to Move?
Full beds win hands-down for mobility:
- Lighter weight: 15-20% less than comparable queens
- Narrower profile: Slides through doorways with less hassle
- More portable: Handles stairs and tight corners better
- Space-friendly: Fits in small rooms where queens won’t
Live in a walk-up or move often? A full-size mattress might be easier to carry, fit, and set up.
Room Size – How Much Space Do You Need?
Consider your bedroom choosing the right size mattress:
- Full mattress: Fits in rooms as small as 10 by 10 feet
- Queen mattress: Needs at least 10 by 12 feet for comfort
- Actual fit: Depends on how much space and furniture you need
You need at least 2 feet of space on each side for walking and furniture. A queen in a tight room can limit movement and furniture options.
Sleeping With Pets or Kids – Which Offers More Room?
Parents and pet owners need more space for comfortable sleep:
- Full beds: Feel crowded with a child or pet
- Queen beds: Give you more space to shift or stretch
- Queen size: Reduces sleep disruptions from movement
A child or medium dog needs about 20-24 inches of width. A full bed may push adults to the edge.
A queen mattress is ideal if you co-sleep. The extra space makes a queen mattress the go-to for family comfort.
Mattress Durability – Which Lasts Longer?
Mattress durability depends on how you use it:
- Two adults on a full create 40% more pressure per square inch
- Full mattresses show sagging 1-2 years earlier when shared
- Queen mattresses spread weight better and reduce pressure points
Queen and full mattress sizes last 7-10 years with proper care. Better materials stretch that lifespan even further.
Couples often notice dips in the center after 4-5 years. Queens maintain support longer and hold up better for two sleepers.
Availability – Which Has More Options?
Queen beds dominate the market:
- Queens represent 47% of all mattress sales versus 15% for fulls
- Premium features appear in queen models first (cooling, zoned support)
- Luxury brands offer more queen options than full
- Specialty mattresses (organic, ultra-plush) have limited full sizes
Queen mattresses come with more choices. There are fewer full-size options for those wanting specific features, materials, or firmness.
Don’t guess your comfort. Try before you buy. Feel the difference in-store.
What Else to Consider When Buying a Mattress
Your mattress decision impacts more than sleep quality. Consider these practical factors when choosing the perfect mattress size for your needs.
Future-Proofing Your Mattress Choice
Think about your life 5-10 years from now when choosing between full beds and queen beds:
- Relationship status might change for singles
- Family plans could add children to your bedroom
- Pet adoption introduces furry friends to your sleep space
A queen mattress accommodates these life changes better than a full bed. Upgrading later means buying a new mattress and frame.
Sleep Accessories & Bedding Costs
Mattress accessories add significant costs over time:
- Sheet sets: Queen sets cost $20-100 more than full
- Mattress protectors: Queen size costs $10-25 more
- Comforters: Queens cost 15-20% more than full sizes
- Pillows: Queens need 2-4 pillows versus 1-2 for fulls
The typical owner replaces bedding 3-4 times during a mattress’s lifespan. This creates a $300-500 total cost difference between full and queen ownership.
Home Layout & Future Moves
Your living space impacts mattress choice:
- Full mattresses fit through 92% more doorways and stairwells
- Queen mattresses need 30″ doorways and 36″ hallways
- Delivery services charge extra or refuse difficult staircases
- Queen box springs may not fit through many older homes
Measure all entry paths before buying a full or queen mattress. A queen bed needs a least 30″ doorway clearance. Full beds navigate tight spaces with less hassle.
Who Should Choose Between a Full vs Queen?
Find your perfect match. This full and queen mattress breakdown shows exactly who needs which size.
When to Choose a Full Mattress
- Small Room – Saves space in tight bedrooms or studios.
- Solo Sleeper – Ideal if you sleep alone and don’t toss much.
- Budget-Friendly – Costs less than a queen for bed, frame, and sheets.
- Guest Room – Great for occasional use without hogging floor space.
- Teen Upgrade – Perfect step up from a twin for growing kids.
When to Choose a Queen Mattress
- More Space – You get more room to spread out or share.
- Couples’ Pick – Comfortable fit for two without bumping elbows.
- Future-Proof – Works for now and later if your needs grow.
- Common Size – Easier to find bedding and frame options.
- Master Bedroom Fit – Balances size and comfort without feeling cramped.
Full or queen? Take our SmartMatch quiz to find your perfect fit.
Which Mattress Size Should You Choose?
BedMart’s sleep experts help customers choose between a full and queen size daily. Our extensive selection of top brands and low-price promise ensures you’ll find the best mattress.
Still unsure? Visit a BedMart store to test both sizes before making a decision! Our 120 Night Comfort Guarantee delivers complete satisfaction.
Don’t compromise on comfort.