Twin vs. Twin XL: Which Mattress Should You Buy?

A complete guide to twin and twin XL mattresses to help you decide which size fits your needs

Last Updated: January 23, 2023 References

What's the difference between a twin and a twin XL?

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When to Choose a Twin Mattress

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When to Choose a Twin XL Mattress

Got a growing kid in need of a new bed? Or just looking for a mattress for your first apartment? Whatever your situation is, you might be trying to decide between a twin and a twin XL. Though they’re pretty similar, both sizes have benefits and drawbacks, and choosing the right one can be the difference between getting great sleep or feeling like you bought the wrong bed. We’ve prepared a complete guide to twin and twin XL mattresses. Keep reading to learn which one is right for you.

Things You Should Know

Twin mattresses measure 38 x 75 in. (96 x 190 cm), or just over 6 feet long and 3 feet wide (1.8 meters long, 1 meter wide).^{[1]
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Twin XL mattresses measure 38 x 80 in. (96 x 203 cm), 5 inches (12 cm) longer than a regular twin. They are usually a bit more expensive than a regular twin.^{[2]
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Twin XL mattresses are best for people over 6 feet (182 cm) tall, or for growing children and teens who may grow to over 6 feet (182 cm) tall.
Both twin and twin XL mattresses are too small for couples. Bigger people and folks with certain health conditions, like back pain, might also benefit from a larger mattress.

Section 1 of 3:

What's the difference between a twin and a twin XL?

A twin is 38″ x 75″ (96 x 190 cm), while an XL is 38″ x 80″ (96 x 203 cm). In other words, they’re the same width, but a twin XL is 5 inches (12 cm) longer. They both comfortably fit one person, making them perfect for children, teenagers, and solo sleepers.^{[3]
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- Twin XL mattresses are usually a little more expensive than a regular twin. The cheapest twin costs less than $100, while twin XLs start at around $110.
- Sheets, blankets, and bed frames for twin XLs are also a little more expansive than they are for regular twin mattresses.
- Both twin and twin XL are too small for adult couples. If you’re an adult who shares a bed with someone, opt for a larger mattress like a queen or king size.^{[4]
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When to Choose a Twin Mattress

Buy a twin for kids and solo sleepers under 6 ft (182 cm) tall. Twin mattresses take up the least amount of space when compared to larger sizes, making them perfect for small bedrooms and bunk beds. Twin bedframes and sheets are also less expensive than those meant for larger mattresses, which makes twin beds more affordable all around.^{[5]
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- Twin mattresses are not ideal for people who change sleeping positions throughout the night. If you toss and turn a lot at night, you might sleep more comfortably on a wider mattress, like a full size.
- A twin mattress has an area of only 19.7 square feet (1.83 square meters). This sounds like a lot, but it’s actually fairly snug if you’re an adult.^{[6]
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- Bigger folks and people with certain medical conditions, such as back pain and problems with sleep, may also benefit from a larger bed, even if they sleep solo.^{[7]
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When to Choose a Twin XL Mattress

Buy a twin XL for growing kids and sleepers over 6 ft (182 cm) tall. A good mattress can last a decade or more, so if you suspect your 8-year-old will be 6’3” (190cm) tall someday, you might be better off spending a little extra on a twin XL now than buying a whole new mattress down the line.^{[8]
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Research source} Twin XLs are also good for small bedrooms, though they take up more space than a twin.
- The minimum size room for a twin XL bed is 8 x 10 feet (2.4 x 3 meters).^{[9]
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  Research source} Measure your bedroom to confirm that a twin XL will fit.
- Since twin XLs are just as narrow as twins, they’re also not ideal for people who change sleeping positions throughout the night.
- Many college dorm rooms come standard with twin XL mattresses. This ensures that every room can accommodate most students, regardless of their height.^{[10]
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- A twin XL mattress has an area of 21.1 square feet (1.96 square meters). This is slightly more area than a twin, but not by much.