Updated at: 16-01-2023 - By: Jane

Choosing the proper mattress size is the first step in the process of finding the right mattress for you. With just one person in the house, you’ll be OK with just one mattress: the twin. It’s also possible to get “twin XL” sizes. When comparing twin XL with regular twin, which is ideal for your needs?

There is only one difference between a regular twin and an XL twin, and that difference is 5 inches. To put it another way, twin XL is the greatest option for taller individuals. When it comes to width, there is no difference between the two bed sizes (38 or 39 inches), so they are only suitable for single sleepers.

TwinTwin XL
Dimensions38” wide, 75” long38” wide, 80” long
Surface Area2,850 square inches3,040 square inches
Best ForSingle sleepers under 6’ tallSingle sleepers over 6’ tall
Benefits
  • Cheaper than Twin XL
  • Accessories, sheets, bed frames, etc. are more widely available
  • 5” extra length accommodates taller people
  • Same length as a Queen mattress
Drawbacks
  • Only 75” long; will feel cramped for tall people
  • More expensive (typically ~$100 more than Twin)
  • Can be harder to find accessories in Twin XL size

Twin and twin XL sizes are distinguished by their length. Both models measure 38-39 inches broad, but the lengths varied by a whopping 5 inches in length.

Single sleepers who are under 6 feet tall are best suited with the 38-inch broad, 75-inch long Twin mattress.

There are two types of people who can use the Twin XL mattress: those who are at least 6 feet tall, or those whose height is expected to rise in the future.

Table above provides a brief overview, but there are additional aspects to keep in mind while making a decision.

What’s a Twin Size Mattress?

An ordinary single bed measures 76 inches wide by 80 inches long, making a twin mattress 38 inches wide by 74 inches long. The smallest and most compact standard size mattress now available is the twin size mattress. Bunk beds are a terrific alternative for families with more than one child, as they free up additional floor space for play and other activities.

Also suitable as guest beds or for adults with restricted living space in studio apartments, twin and single size beds are available.

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Pricing

There is a wide range of price points for a twin mattress, from $100 to $1500. Due to the use of exclusive sleep technology and organic materials, the cost of high-end mattresses is more expensive.

We’ve broken down each of our Amerisleep twin mattresses below.

MattressPrice
Amerisleep AS1$749
Amerisleep AS2$949
Amerisleep AS2 Hybrid$1149
Amerisleep AS3$1149
Amerisleep AS3 Hybrid$1349
Amerisleep AS4$1349
Amerisleep AS5$1649
Amerisleep AS5 Hybrid$2049
Amerisleep Organica$1199

Recommended Room Space

In order to have enough room for a twin-sized mattress, a bedroom must be at least 7 feet wide by 10 feet long. In addition to minimizing the stress of living in a small area, an evenly-spaced bedroom can help you sleep better.

Pros

  • Suitable for children.
  • Small, lightweight, and easy to transport.
  • A bunk bed can be used with this.
  • The most cost-effective size.

Cons

  • Too little for a pair.
  • If you’re a light sleeper, this isn’t the best option for you.
  • Some grownups may not have enough room to sleep.

What’s a Twin XL Size Mattress?

An extra six inches in length makes a twin XL mattress the same size as a regular twin mattress. It’s a terrific option for both youngsters and adults who are taller because of its extended length, which provides more legroom.

For guest rooms, studio apartments, and college dorm rooms, twin XL beds might be an excellent choice.

Pricing

Between $300 and more than $2000 are the most expensive twin XL mattresses. Luxurious beds are more expensive because of the additional layers and special sleep technology that aren’t generally available.

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Amerisleep mattresses in twin XL size are listed below.

MattressPrice
Amerisleep AS1$664
Amerisleep AS2$769
Amerisleep AS2 Hybrid$1049
Amerisleep AS3$839
Amerisleep AS3 Hybrid$1119
Amerisleep AS4$1049
Amerisleep AS5$1329
Amerisleep AS5 Hybrid$1609
Amerisleep Organica$1349

Recommended Room Space

If you have a 7-foot by 10-foot bedroom, a twin XL mattress will fit well.

Pros

  • Legroom is increased with an extra long twin.
  • Bedrooms, studio apartments, and college dorms will all benefit from this item!
  • The cost is reasonable.

Cons

  • Too little for a pair.
  • Some grownups would be cramped if they were to share the space.

Twin vs. Twin XL Dimensions

TwinTwin XL
38 inches wide38 inches wide
74 inches long80 inches long

If you’re looking at the dimensions of a twin bed and a twin XL bed, the main difference is that the twin XL mattress is longer than a twin bed. Twin mattresses are 74 inches long, whereas twin XLs are 80 inches long. Twin XLs are longer. Taller people will appreciate the extra space provided by the 6-inch difference, despite its apparent insignificance.

Twin vs Twin XL Similarities

There is a lot of overlap between twin and twin XL mattresses. Two 38-inch-wide beds are ideal for small guest rooms and apartments since they take up less space than standard-sized beds.

Because of their narrow construction, these mattresses are excellent choices for children. If your child is prone to tossing and turning in their sleep, you may want to consider a twin-sized bed rail or a wider bed to keep them from falling out. Please check out our evaluation of the top children’s beds to find some wonderful options for your kiddos!

Compared to other mattress options, twin and twin XL mattresses are among the most affordable. If you’re on a tight budget, consider a twin or twin XL. This mattress could be ideal for you if you sleep alone and don’t move around much at night. To save money yet still have room to spread out, we’ve put together a list of the best affordable mattresses.

Both of these beds are too narrow for most people to comfortably share. A wider mattress may be necessary if you sleep with another person or a large animal. Explore some of the top mattresses for couples to see if there’s one that better suits your preferences!

Other Mattress Sizes

You may want to consider other mattress sizes, such as a full or queen mattress in the event that a twin or twin XL mattress is too tiny for your main bedroom.

Full Size

In terms of both width and length, a full-size mattress is 54 inches wide by 75 inches long. Teenagers and college students alike can benefit from full-sized beds. In addition, they are ideal for single adults on a small budget and with limited living space.

Queen Size

When it comes to single adults, a queen mattress is one of the most common choices. Queen-sized beds offer plenty of area to spread out and are ideal for those who sleep in a variety of positions. Queen-sized mattresses are also a wonderful choice for couples, but they are less spacious than king-sized ones.

King Size

The largest conventional mattress size, the king, is 76 inches wide by 80 inches long. A king-sized bed is ideal for couples since it provides plenty of room for privacy. If you put two XL twin mattresses next to each other, they’ll measure the same. It is also possible for couples to choose a split king mattress that caters to their individual preferences.

California King Size

Compared to a king-sized mattress, the length of a California king mattress is 72 inches by 84 inches. California king beds are a great choice for couples who prefer to sleep close to one another. Personal preferences can be accommodated with split California king alternatives, which are less common than split kings.

What’s the Difference Between Twin and Twin XL?

With a smaller bed in mind, you can choose from a variety of options depending on your own preferences and the amount of room you have available. A twin or twin XL bed with luxurious twin bedding is the ideal answer for anyone seeking for a bed for a youngster, a comfortable space for guests, or a dorm-worthy bedroom for your favorite college student.

A king-sized bed may also be created in the master bedroom using twin and twin XL mattresses that can be put together for couples who like to sleep on different beds. It’s possible to have a twin or twin xl mattress that’s both luxurious and supportive at the same time.

Despite the fact that twin and twin XL mattresses appear to be identical, there is a significant difference in bed size between the two. The extra space provided by a twin XL mattress, even while it may not seem like much, actually makes for a more comfortable night’s sleep.

The size of the twin XL is, in fact, its most notable feature. When you buy a twin XL mattress, you’re getting a mattress that is longer than the standard twin mattress. Teenagers and adults prefer the extra-long twin XL bed because of its extra width and length; conventional twin beds, also known as single beds, are better suited for smaller children or those with very small bedrooms.

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What is the Size Difference Between Twin & Twin XL Beds?

Despite their similar breadth, the twin XL mattress is longer. Knowing the dimensions of each of these popular beds is essential to guarantee that you get the correct size bed, as well as to ensure that luxury sheets and bedding will fit your bed appropriately.

The twin XL mattress is only 5 inches longer, but it makes a huge difference in the comfort of the bed. Twin XL is a popular choice for students who live in dorms or modest apartments because of its size. If you’re looking for the perfect size for one adult, you can’t go wrong with a queen-sized bed. Twin XL beds are also the same size as king-size beds, so you can fit two of them together.

Will a Twin XL Mattress Fit a Twin Bed Frame?

In spite of the 5″ difference in length between the twin and the twin XL mattress, the conventional twin size bed frame will not fit the twin XL mattress because it is too long. A twin-sized mattress must fit snugly into enclosed twin-sized frames and modules like bunks, daybeds, and loft beds.

Because the mattress will extend over the edge of the box spring, the bed will be uneven and you may not get the support you need while you sleep if you choose a twin XL box spring. It is also possible that the mattress will be harmed owing to the additional stress it is under as a result of improper use on a regular basis. Use a twin XL frame with your twin XL mattress for the greatest results.

Which is Better: Twin vs Twin XL?

What is the answer to this question? To help you determine which mattress is best for you, I’ve included a few advantages and cons of each mattress below.

Twin Mattress Pros

  • They are the smallest mattresses available, making them ideal for small rooms.
  • If you’re on a tight budget, twin mattresses are the best option.
  • It’s easy to find sheets, bed frames, and other accessories that match with twin mattresses because they’re so prevalent.

Twin Mattress Cons

  • More than one person cannot sleep comfortably on a twin mattress due to its tiny width.
  • A person over six feet in height may have trouble finding a mattress that fits them comfortably because twins are shorter than twin XLs.

Twin XL Mattress Pros

  • Twin XL mattresses are five inches longer than standard twin mattresses, making them ideal for taller sleepers or older children who may experience a growth spurt in the future.
  • Because of their low cost, twin XL mattresses are an excellent option for those on a strict budget.
  • Even with the additional legroom, twin XL mattresses are excellent space savers.

Twin XL Mattress Cons

  • Twin XL mattresses are too little for more than one person to comfortably sleep on.
  • If you’re looking for sheets, bed frames, or other bedding items to match with your Twin XL mattress, you may have a tougher time finding what you need.

FAQs

How wide is a twin bed?

Each 38-inch-wide twin and twin XL mattress is the same length. The 80-inch length of a twin XL is what makes it a “XL” size. (How long is a twin bed?). The length of a twin is 74 inches.)

Can a twin fitted sheet fit on a twin XL?

If you have a twin XL mattress, you may not be able to utilize a standard twin sheet set because it has an extra five inches of length.

Do two twin beds make a California king?

A California king-sized mattress cannot be made from two twin-sized ones. In comparison, a California king bed is 72 by 84 inches, which is somewhat larger than a twin bed. This can be accomplished by using two double-sized twin mattresses.

How much bigger is a full than a twin XL?

A twin XL mattress may be five inches longer than a conventional twin, but a full mattress has an additional 16 inches of width. Single sleepers who frequently toss and turn may choose full-sized beds.

Is a Twin or Twin XL Mattress Right for You?

Children, teenagers, and single people can all benefit from twin and twin XL-sized mattresses. They’re just the right size for any room, but they’re especially well-suited for small spaces like kids’ rooms and studio apartments.

Where can I find twin XL sheets?

Please check out our 2020 Best Cotton Sheets to locate some wonderful twin XL sheets.”

What is the difference between a twin XL and a twin extra long mattress?

They are, in fact, one and the same thing. Despite the fact that twin XL mattresses are also known as twin extra long and extra long twin mattresses, they are all just alternative names for the same thing.

What is the difference between a twin bed and a single bed?

Both of these beds are exactly the same. Because they were designed for one person to sleep on, twin-sized beds are frequently referred to as “single beds.” However, the conventional dimensions of a double and a single mattress are the same.

Should I use a topper with my twin or twin XL mattress?

With a mattress topper, you can add an extra layer of comfort to your mattress and make it feel more luxurious. We have a few suggestions in our Best Mattress Toppers article if you decide you want a mattress topper.

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