Twin & Twin XL Mattress Sizes Explained

At first glance, Twin and Twin XL mattresses seem nearly identical, but those extra inches on a Twin XL can make a world of difference. If you're setting up a kid’s room, prepping for college, or ensuring your guest bed is actually comfortable, choosing the right size matters. No one wants to wake up feeling cramped or curled up like a pretzel. Let’s break down the similarities and differences between Twin and Twin XL in a way that makes sense.

Twin vs. Twin XL: What’s the Difference?

The biggest difference between a Twin and a Twin XL is the length. Here’s a quick side-by-side comparison:

Simply put, the Twin XL is just five inches longer than a standard Twin. It may not seem like much, but if you’re over 5’10”, those extra inches can mean the difference between a good night’s sleep and waking up with your feet dangling off the edge.

Who Should Get a Twin Mattress?

A Twin mattress is a solid choice if: 

✔ You’re buying for a child or a teenager.
✔ You need to maximize space in a small bedroom.
✔ You’re looking for an affordable, no-frills option for a guest bed.

Twin beds are also common in bunk beds—perfect for kids who share a room or sleepovers with cousins and friends.

Best Twin Mattress: Check out the Sealy Beckley Foam Twin Mattress (Model: 53126830)—a great Twin option for kids or guest rooms.

Who Should Get a Twin XL Mattress?

A Twin XL mattress is the way to go if: 

✔ You’re over 5’10” and need extra legroom.
✔ You’re outfitting a college dorm (most dorm beds are Twin XL!).
✔ You want the flexibility to later combine two Twin XLs into a King-size bed.

If you or someone in your household is on the taller side, a Twin XL can prevent the "feet hanging off the bed" problem. They’re also great for guest rooms since they accommodate a wider range of sleepers.

Best Twin XL Mattress: The Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt Twin XL Mattress (Model: 10745131) is a fantastic option if you want pressure relief and cooling technology for a great night’s sleep.

Twin XL: The Secret to a Split King Bed

Here’s a little-known hack: two Twin XL mattresses pushed together equal a standard King bed (76” x 80”). This setup is ideal for couples who have different sleep preferences—one side can be firm, the other soft, and nobody has to compromise.

Many adjustable bases also come in a Split King mattress option, allowing each person to adjust their side separately. If you and your partner have ever had a “Blanket Tug-of-War” situation, this might just be the solution.

Additionally, for those who need even more length, two Twin XL mattresses can also be used to create a Split California King (72” x 84”), which is perfect for taller sleepers who want extra legroom while still enjoying personalized comfort on each side of the bed.

Maximizing Space with Twin & Twin XL Mattresses

If you’re working with a small bedroom, guest room, or shared space, choosing the right mattress size can make all the difference. Twin and Twin XL beds are great space-saving options, but how you set up your room can enhance their functionality even more.

Here are some ideas to maximize space with these mattress sizes: 

✔ Lofted Twin/Twin XL Beds: Perfect for dorms or small apartments—free up floor space for a desk or extra storage.
✔ Daybeds with Twin Mattresses: A great multi-use solution for guest rooms or home offices.
✔ Storage Bed Frames: Consider a Twin or Twin XL with built-in drawers to maximize organization in a tight space.
✔ Bunk Beds for Twins: Ideal for shared bedrooms, maximizing both sleeping and play areas.

Choosing the right mattress setup can help you make the most of your living space without sacrificing comfort.

Find the Right Mattress at Standard TV & Appliance

Still not sure which size is right for you? No worries—that’s what we’re here for! At Standard TV & Appliance, we carry a wide range of Twin and Twin XL mattresses from top brands like Sealy, Tempur-Pedic, and Stearns & Foster.

Visit one of our mattress store locations in Portland, Beaverton, Bend, and Wilsonville, Oregon, or contact us. We’ll help you find the perfect mattress that will help you sleep better and wake up feeling more refreshed.

👉 Explore mattresses for sale at Standard today!

Related readings from our blog:

• The Mattress Makeover: How To Refresh Your Bedding

• How To Choose The Right Mattress For Side Sleepers

• A Complete Guide To Different Types Of Mattresses

FAQs About Twin and Twin XL Mattresses

1. How much bigger is a Twin XL than a Twin?

A Twin XL is five inches longer than a Twin (80” vs. 75”). The width remains the same.

2. Will a Twin XL mattress fit on a regular Twin frame?

No, a Twin XL mattress is longer, so it requires a Twin XL frame or an adjustable bed frame that accommodates both sizes.

3. Do two Twin XL mattresses make a King?

Yes! Two Twin XL mattresses pushed together equal the dimensions of a King-size bed (76” x 80”).

4. Can a 5’11” person fit on a Twin bed?

Technically, yes, but it won’t be the most comfortable. A Twin is only 75” long, which is 6 feet, 3 inches—but that doesn’t account for pillows or how you actually sleep. A Twin XL is a much better choice.

5. What size are college dorm beds?

Most college dorms use Twin XL mattresses to accommodate taller students.