Trying to choose between a full size and a queen size mattress? Although they’re pretty similar in size, there are quite a few differences to keep in mind as you make your selection.
Since a mattress is such a big investment, you’ll want to do your research beforehand so you know you’re ordering the perfect size for your needs. In this guide, we’ll review what to keep in mind and how to make your decision.
Overview: Full vs Queen Mattresses
A full (or double) mattress measures 54 inches by 75 inches, making it a good option for teens and adults who sleep alone.
A queen mattress measures 60 inches by 80 inches. This larger size makes a queen ideal for couples or singles who like to stretch out while sleeping alone.
Comparison Chart: Full vs. Queen Mattress
| Full Mattress | Queen Mattress | |
|---|---|---|
| Width | 54 in / 137 cm | 54 in / 137 cm |
| Length | 75 in / 191 cm | 80 in / 203 cm |
| Personal Width | 27 in / 68.6 cm | 30 in / 76 cm |
| Cost | Less expensive than a queen | More expensive than a full |
| Ideal For | Children’s rooms, guest rooms, and small master bedrooms. | Master bedrooms and larger guest rooms. |
| Size Differential | The full is 5 inches shorter in length than a queen and 6 inches narrower. | The queen is 5 inches longer than the full and 6 inches wider. |
| Summary | The full size is often referred to as a double bed. In the US and Canada, it is the same sized bed. In Europe, double beds vary in size. | A queen is a grand dame who needs no other name. |
Note: Want to compare these sizes to the twin or king? Check out our full guide to mattress sizes.
Differences Between Full & Queen Mattresses
The biggest difference between a queen and a full mattress is, of course, the size and dimensions. A full (or “double”) mattress is 75 inches long and 54 inches wide, making it a good option for teens and adults who sleep alone. A queen mattress is 5 inches longer and 6 inches wider than a full mattress, at a total of 80 inches long and 60 inches wide. The larger size makes it an ideal option for couples.
In terms of popularity, the queen size earns the top spot; a 2017 study showed that almost half of American adults (47%) reported that they slept on a queen bed. Only 14% of survey respondents said they slept on a full size bed.
Full vs. Queen: Dimensions & Comfort
With the dimensions listed above in mind, it’s important to think about how a queen or full size mattress will contribute to your comfort overall.
A full mattress, for example, is a wonderful size and choice for a guest room or child’s room in the house. A full bed is the same length as a twin but slightly wider, allowing for a parent to comfortably lay alongside a child reading a bedtime story.
| Full Mattress | Queen Mattress | |
|---|---|---|
| Width | 54 in / 137 cm | 60 in / 153 cm |
| Length | 75 in / 191 cm | 80 in / 203 cm |
| Personal Width | 27 in / 68.6 cm | 30 in / 76 cm |
| Comfort Considerations | Ideal for kids, guest rooms, and single sleepers. | Ideal for couples who want a little extra personal space. |
Full vs. Queen: Cost Comparison
Because it’s slightly larger, a queen mattress will cost a bit more than a full mattress. It’s also important to consider the accessories you’ll need. Queen-size bed sheets will cost more than full size, for example, as will the foundation or frame that you choose. You may also want additional pillows to fill in the extra space.
In the chart below, you can see examples of GhostBed’s queen and full options, including mattresses and accessories:
| Full Mattress | Queen Mattress | |
|---|---|---|
| GhostBed Classic | $1,395 $837 | $1,495 $897 |
| GhostBed Flex Hybrid | $2,095 $1,257 | $1,660 $996 |
| GhostSheets | $310 $186 | $350 $210 |
| GhostBed All-in-One Foundation™ | $409 $245 | $429 $257 |
Full vs. Queen: Room Size Requirements
Of course, you’ll also want to consider your room size before purchasing any bed.
Full size beds work well in a smaller room and have more possibilities to fit into a floor plan. They look nice protruding from the center of a wall as well as with a side against a wall. Queen beds, on the other hand, look best with the head against a wall.
Before making your purchase, measure your room and create a floor plan. Make note of any dressers, chairs and other furnishings that are in the room as well.
If you’re placing the head of the bed against a wall, you’ll also want to account for 2-3 feet of space around the sides, so you have room to walk around it comfortably. Here’s what this looks like:
| Mattress Size | Ideal Room Size | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Mattress | 54 in x 75 in | 9x10 to 10x12 |
| Queen Mattress | 60 in x 80 in | 10x10 to 10x14 |
Full vs.Queen FAQ
If you still have questions, you’re not alone! Below, you will find the answers to the most frequently asked questions our Sleep Experts get.
Can You Put a Queen Mattress on a Full Frame?
Mattress frames are typically 2-3 inches wider than the mattress, making a queen size bed far too big to fit on top of a full size frame. When you use the incorrect-sized bed frame, you risk the mattress shifting when you get in and out of bed. Plus, it can be pretty uncomfortable if you like to sleep near the edges, since you won’t have the right support under you.
Are Full and Queen Sheets the Same?
The sizes of beds are standardized, but sheet dimensions can vary depending on the manufacturer. A full bed is 54 inches wide by 75 inches. On the other hand, queen mattresses come in at 60 inches by 80 inches. With this in mind, it’s clear that shopping for your bedsheets in the correct size is imperative if you want your sheets to fit snugly and comfortably. We recommend our GhostSheets (in the right size) for your mattress.
Will a Full Mattress Fit a Queen Frame?
If you try to fit a full-size mattress on a queen frame, you’ll end up with 3 inches of bedframe left on each side. This could work in the case of a platform bed frame, but it’s not suggested. We also recommend pairing your mattress with the appropriately sized frame or foundation.
Can a Couple Sleep on a Full Mattress?
Couples sharing a full bed may feel pretty cramped, as the sleeping area per person is only 27 inches across. Most couples will opt for a queen bed, with its extra length and width. This allows for each adult to have room to turn in their own space without disrupting the other. The queen bed is a great match for a master bedroom that may be a bit too small to accommodate a king bed.
Full vs. Double Bed Size: What’s the Difference?
“Full” and “double” are often used interchangeably. In the US and Canada, both terms refer to the same size bed. In other parts of the world, however, these sizes can vary.
