In this guide, we will compare twin and twin XL sizes – two of the smallest sizes. The twin bed size is one of the most popular options today – it’s only rival is the queen mattress. The twin extra large bed size packs a big punch in a small frame, with more room for the person to stretch out while being able to fit in a smaller place.
Choosing the right mattress size is difficult. There are many factors that need to be considered – the number of people that will sleep on it, the position you sleep in, the budget, the size of the bedroom etc. Mattresses today are sold in six sizes: queen, king, California king, full/double, twin, and twin extra large (XL). Some mattress manufacturers offer custom sizes for their models.
In this guide, we will compare twin and twin XL sizes – two of the smallest sizes. The twin bed size is one of the most popular options today – it’s only rival is the queen mattress. The twin extra large bed size packs a big punch in a small frame, with more room for the person to stretch out while being able to fit in a smaller place.
The twin and twin XL sizes have some similarities, but also some differences. Standard twin size or single bed is one of the smallest sizes you can buy. Do not mix up twin beds and double beds. Twin size is made for one person with thirty-nine inches in width and seventy-five inches in length, while the double bed refers to the number of people sleeping in it – two adults. Since it doesn’t take much space, this bed size is suitable for small rooms, for example, kids’ bedrooms and guest rooms. And you can quickly turn it into a bunk bed.
Twin extra long size is the same size as the standard twin size – thirty-nine inches in width and eighty inches in length, making it only five inches longer than a twin bed. The twin XL is equal to one-half of a regular King-size mattress. It is suitable for adults and children. Commonly they can be found in nursing homes, hospitals, other healthcare institutions, and college dorms. Even though it is wider than the standard twin size, it doesn’t provide enough space for two people to fit.
The standard width of a twin size bed is 38 inches for both beds, while the standard lengths are 75 inches for twin and 80 inches for a twin XL. The minimum bedroom size for twin is 7 1/6′ x 10 1/4′ and 7 1/6′ x 10 2/3′ for twin XL. The prices are also very different – $300 to $600 for twin and $500 to $750 for twin XL. Both models are less expensive than the Full or Queen size mattresses, making them excellent options if you have a tight budget or want to save money. As for ideal sleeping arrangements, single sleepers that are not taller than 6’2″ or do not need any extra sleeping space will find twin size perfect, while tall single sleepers that also don’t need any extra sleeping space might prefer twin XL.
They require less space. Because it is shorter than a twin extra large size, it is an excellent option for shorter rooms. This bed size can fit into a room of 2925 square inches. The price is affordable, from $300 to $600 on average, which is $100 to $200 cheaper than twin extra large models. However, in some cases twin and twin XL mattresses have the same price. Because they are small in size, it is very lightweight and can be moved easily, without any assistance. And they have wide availability. Most models you can find on the market are available in a twin-size model, but thicker models may not have this size as an option. Additionally, these bed sizes are very kid-friendly. They can easily fit in most bunk beds and standalone beds for young children.
They have many benefits, but there are also drawbacks. The twin size models are short and too narrow for some individuals. It does not have much additional space in width, and it has five inches less in length than a twin XL. If you do not need any additional sleeping space, then this could be a great option. But if you are tall or just need some extra space, this might not be a good option. It is also not a suitable option for couples because of the narrow space.
A twin extra large can fit anyone under 6’8″, which includes individuals that are taller than the standard twin-size models can fit – somewhere between 6’3″ and 6’7″. Even though they have more weight than a standard twin, they are still relatively lightweight and easy to move. And just like standard twin sizes, they are also suitable for children that sleep in standalone bed frames and bunk beds.
A twin extra large is a bit bigger, so it can’t be put in shorter bedrooms. The bedroom needs to be more significant to hold a standard twin. This bed size can fit into a room of 3120 square inches. The price is also different for a twin XL mattress. While they offer more space in length, they are still the same width as a standard twin. Both sizes have thirty-eight inches in width, which is not ideal for individuals that need extra space. Because of that, they are also not a good option for couples. The bed size is too narrow, making it convenient for single sleepers only. And they usually cost at least $50 more than a standard twin. However, there are some cases where the price can be the same.
Even though it may seem like these bed sizes are not so different, the additional five inches of length can make a difference, especially for taller individuals. Both sizes are the same in width, so the length is the only difference in dimensions. Because of the small size, both models are more suitable for individuals that sleep alone. If you want to sleep with another person, buying a double size mattress would be a better option, because the twin size is too tight for more than one individual.
You need to consider your body type as well. Both sizes are the same width, so the height is the only difference. Shorter individuals will not need the added five inches of a twin extra large bed provides. But taller individuals will need that difference. When shopping for a child or even teenager, you need to consider that they can outgrow a regular twin mattress, so it might be best to get them a twin XL. Both twin sizes are made suitable for children’s standalone beds and bunk beds. The independent beds are a perfect option for your child to sleep in after a crib mattress, but keep in mind that the extra five inches might be needed for a growing child.
Many people do not share their beds with another adult, but many have younger children or even pets that jump into their bed. If your furry friends like sleeping with you, a twin XL will offer you an additional length that will allow your pet to sleep at your feet. If your children sleep with you, it is not recommended to get a twin size, but instead a bigger bed.
Your sleeping position can also affect the size of bed you need. People that move around a lot in bed or just stretch their legs out might want to choose a twin extra large that will give more length for any movement. This is extremely important for individuals that sleep on their back or in a lengthened and narrow position. People that like to curl up and sleep in a fetal position will find that the twin mattress feels the same as the twin XL. It would be best to try out both the twin and twin extra large mattress sizes to see which one feels best for you.
The twin size is the smallest size you can find, and the twin extra large is right after it with its added five inches. Since they are both small, they can fit into any standard room size. And because many bedrooms are big enough for two twin or twin XL mattresses, you can easily get another bed for any additional sleepers.
As for prices, both models are the cheapest among mattress sizes. If you need to save more money, it would be best to get a twin bed rather than a twin XL. Apart from the mattress being cheaper, sheets, duvet covers, bed frames, and protectors will also be more affordable. Individuals that do need any added space, a twin mattress is definitely an excellent choice.
This guide examined the standard twin and twin extra large bed sizes. Both the standard twin and twin extra large have similar dimensions, but the difference is in length and price. A twin will fit anyone shorter than 6’2″, while extra large will fit anyone shorter than 6’7″.
A twin size bed will be a great fit for a child. The twin-sized beds are convenient for children’s standalone and bunk beds for kids ages from 3 to 13 years. Additionally, a twin size is a great option if you are shopping for a new mattress with a tight budget. A twin extra large size is great for adults that plan to sleep alone. They have the same length as the Queen and King beds, but they are more narrow than other bed sizes, so they are a better fit for a single adult or tall child. If your child is under 13 years old, a standard twin size is a great option. However, if you have tall genes in your family and expect your child to be tall, he or she may outgrow the regular model, so a twin extra large would be a better option in this case.
If you are living on a smaller budget with one twin extra large bed, but have a partner or just want to expand your sleeping surface, it might be cheaper to buy another twin extra large bed than to get a King size bed that is the same length. Additionally, if you are not in a rush to buy a new mattress, you can keep track of the many sales and discounts offered.
After reviewing all this, you need to keep in mind that the mattress size preference depends on you. It is ultimately subjective, so deciding the right size might be difficult. The best thing you can do is try out both twin sizes in stores or take advantage of the offered sleep trials. If the mattress size does not fit, or you are just not satisfied with it, you can return it before the trial period ends and get a full refund.
Iva is an art historian and an art lover who always had a passion for writing and sleep! When she is not researching and testing new mattresses on the market, you can find her binge-watching TV shows, eating tons of junk food or playing with her dog Bart.