If you're deciding between buying a full vs queen mattress, there are a lot of things to consider. Queen mattresses are the most popular bed size sold in the US as they offer enough room for couples without costing as much as an imposing king size. However, full mattress come with their own benefits, especially in terms of saving space and money.
All beds in this year's best mattress guide come in a full and queen size, so there are plenty of high-quality mattresses out there no matter which size you pick. When choosing between a queen vs full mattress, the most important things to consider is your budget, room, and whether or not you share a bed.
Here we'll explore the pros and cons of a full mattress and a queen mattress, and which size is best for your sleep. We've also rounded up the best mattress deals still live in the extended 4th of July mattress sales, so you can snag a bargain for a limited time, too.
What is a full size mattress?
A full mattress is larger than a twin and twin XL but slightly narrower and shorter than a queen, measuring at 54 inches wide and 76 inches long. Full mattress are also a cheaper and more practical option for solo sleepers who need some extra room but don't need as much room as a queen offers.
Couples who don't need too much space can also sleep on a full, but people who share a bed with restless sleeper or have larger bodies or bedrooms may want to choose a queen instead.
What is a queen size mattress?
A queen mattress is the most popular US mattress size, measuring at 80 inches long and 60 inches wide. Queen beds are cheaper, shorter, and narrower than king and Cal king sizes, but are slightly larger and more expensive than full mattresses.
The best queen mattresses offer couples enough space when sharing a bed, and fit inside most bedrooms. Their also better for solo sleepers who have heavier bodies or taller frames due to its longer and wider measurements.
3 signs you could get away with a full size mattress
1. You have a smaller budget
Full mattresses tend to be cheaper and are much better value for solo sleepers who find twin sizes too cramped. Queen mattress tend to be more expensive than full mattresses, and it's considered a bargain if you find a queen for under $500.
There are, on the other hand, many high-quality full mattresses available for under $500. In fact, a typical price range for a full is $500 to $1,600, compared with a $700 to $1,800 range for a queen.
2. You need space, but not too much
Queen mattresses can fit into a lot of bedrooms, but they aren't as space-saving as a full. Full mattresses make a great addition to smaller apartments or bedroom, saving you some room and making any space look bigger. It's also the perfect measurement for couples who do not need as much individual room as a queen offers.
3. You're a solo sleeper
Full mattress offer enough space for solo sleepers who feel too restricted by a twin or twin XL bed, and need more wriggle room without spending money on a larger bed that takes up too much of their bedroom. In fact, a queen size may feel much too wide if you sleep solo and may even feel a little excessive.
3 top-rated full size 4th of July mattress deals - still live
3 signs you need a queen size mattress
1. You share a bed
Bed-sharing couples will need a mattress that provides enough room for both sleepers, especially if you or your partner is a restless sleeper or has a heavier build. Queen mattresses can also be good for couples with different sleep positions, as some sleep styles (such as the "starfish" stomach sleeping position) require more room. The same goes for those who overheat at night, as a cramped space can make a hot sleeper feel stuffy and sweaty.
2. You're a solo sleeper with a taller or heavier build
While a lot of solo sleepers can get away with sleeping on a full mattress, some individuals may sleep easier if they're on a queen. For example, those with heavier bodies may enjoy the extra width of a queen while taller sleepers may feel better with the extra length.
3. You have a larger bedroom
Queen mattresses can fit into a lot of bedrooms, but they also look better in larger master bedrooms. While a king can look good in larger spaces, a queen can fill the room without dominating it, while also allowing for extra space. A full, on the other hand, may feel too small in a larger bedroom.
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Why does mattress size matter?
When looking for a mattress, it's important to remember that size really does matter. For example, if you co-sleep, you need to factor in how much you and your sleeping partner needs. If you're a solo sleeper, you need to think about whether you can get along fine with a twin or twin XL or if you'd like some more room with a full or queen.
Another thing you need to remember when choosing a mattress size is your home. If you live in a smaller house or apartment, then you'll need a bed that will fit and won't take too much space. For more info, visit our complete guide to choosing a mattress size.
