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If you’re looking for slimmer mattresses, twin and twin XL mattresses are smart options to consider. Twin mattresses are perfect if you’re under 6 feet tall, while twin XL mattresses are 5 inches longer, better accommodating taller sleepers.
Our guide on twin vs. twin XL mattresses examines the pros and cons of each option as well as factors to consider when buying a new bed. We’ll help you make the right choice and sleep soundly in no time.
Read more: Best Mattresses
A traditional twin mattress is 38 inches wide and 75 inches long, making it comfortable for single sleepers who aren’t too tall. Here are some pros and cons to consider with a regular twin:
Twin mattresses work best for single sleepers, including college students and children. They also work well for people who are under 6 feet tall, as they provide enough space to stretch out without taking up too much space or causing your legs to dangle off the bed.
When looking for the best twin mattresses, here are some of the top options to consider:
If you want a no-frills twin bed that’s comfortable and affordable, the Tuft and Needle Nod twin mattress could be a good fit. Its poly foam construction strikes a balance between comfort and support, and with a 100-night trial, there is ample time to make sure it’s the right choice.
The Nectar Premier is the best memory foam twin mattress on the market. It’s 13 inches of thick, providing ample support for back, side and stomach sleepers. Thanks to its thickness and memory foam construction, you won’t have to worry about pressure points while you doze. Topping it off is a poly-blend cooling cover that does a good job of providing soft comfort without the chill. Overall, it’s a more expensive twin mattress, but one that offers plenty of comfort and support.
It isn’t uncommon for memory foam beds to run hot. This hybrid twin mattress from Ghostbed offers a mix of support and temperature balance with a cooling cover that improves airflow while dispersing heat. Just as important, its medium firmness makes it comfortable for sleepers of all positions. If you want a bed that’s cool to the touch and will relieve your pressure points, this is a mattress to consider.
A twin XL mattress is 38 inches wide by 80 inches long — 5 inches longer than a traditional twin mattress. As such, it’s better suited to taller sleepers over 6 feet who need more space to stretch out. Here are some pros and cons to consider with twin XL mattresses:
A twin XL bed is ideal for single sleepers who are taller than 6 feet. The extra length allows ample room to stretch out without leaving legs and feet dangling over the edge. Because these mattresses are still narrow, they’re easier to fit in smaller areas including dorms, apartments or children’s rooms.
Still considering which option is the best for you? Here is a direct comparison:
When you’re searching for the best mattress, here are some factors to consider:
The size of your room plays a huge role in determining the size of the mattress you’ll want to consider. For a smaller room, twin or twin XL mattresses could be a good fit. They’ll give you space to add other furniture and move around comfortably.
Twin mattresses will be kinder to your wallet, as you can find high-quality models like the Tuft and Needle Nod twin mattress for under $350 on Amazon. You’ll also be able to find less expensive options for twin XL mattresses, though you might not have as many choices as you would with a regular twin. Keep in mind that with twin XL mattresses, you’ll also need to find specialty bedding and a longer bed frame, which can increase expenses.
Your sleep position should also play a role in which bed you choose. Side sleepers need a mix of firmness for support and enough softness to prevent pressure points. Meanwhile, back and stomach sleepers need firmer mattresses to ensure proper alignment for a restful sleep.
When you shop for a mattress, you’ll encounter a variety of different construction types. For example, innerspring mattresses can be ideal for side sleepers looking for a mix of softness and support. Foam beds offer pressure-relieving benefits, particularly if you choose memory foam, while open-cell foam offers a cooler feel. There are also hybrid options, combining coils with foam to strike a balance between support and comfort.
How much you weigh and how tall you are also should factor into your choice. Taller sleepers will need a longer bed to stay comfortable. That’s why a twin XL mattress offers 5 additional inches of length. How much you weigh can also shape your choice. Lighter sleepers under 230 pounds can benefit from a softer to medium firmness, while sleepers weighing more than 230 pounds should select a firmer mattress.
Is this going to be the mattress you use every night, or will it be in the guest room or another spot where it will be used only sporadically? Answering this question can help you determine how much you’ll want to spend. If it will get regular use, consider investing in a higher-quality bed. Otherwise, something that juggles comfort and affordability might make more sense.
