Panel Beds vs. Platform Beds :Everything you Need to Know

Panel Beds vs. Platform Beds :Everything you Need to Know

Written by Mehran Uzair

Last Updated on Jul 21, 2023

In this article:

    The bed foundation is what shapes the comfort and feel. Because it takes more than a mattress and the bed size to provide a relaxing and comfortable night, and though both panel and platform beds have some similarities and differences, the decision goes beyond headboards and bed posts.

    With that being said, is a panel bed the same as a platform bed? Although panel beds and platform beds share similar designs, ranging from tufted, upholstered, and storage drawers underneath, they also possess many fundamental differences.

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    Panel Bed vs Platform Bed: The Difference

    Panel bed vs platform bed: the potential differences.

    ParametersPanel BedPlatform Bed
    StyleTraditional aesthetics, Sturdy design, Vintage decor, Extra height, Extra decoration Contemporary design, Low profile, Modern minimalistic deco
    ComfortPanels provide breathability Strong base providing great mattress support
    StorageAmple storage due to high profile frameworkLimited space, Mostly comes with storage spaces
    Room SizeLarge rooms due to headboard and footboard presenceSmall space can accommodate
    Mattress TypeBox spring, Innerspring mattress Memory Foam, Hybrid
    PriceAround $200 to $1000$100 to above $5000

    What Is a Panel Bed

    A panel bed consists of wooden panels or metal bars that help support the box spring and the mattress, hence the term panel. These panels help extend the lifespan of the mattress and the box spring.

    Usually, the panel beds feature a side railing, an eye-catching large headboard, and a footboard. Most of the time, the panel beds consist of elaborated and traditional designs, which complement conventional or vintage home decor.

    Panel Bed Construction

    A simple explanation of the general panel bed's construction:

    • The side rails of the panel bed are the frame of the bed. 
    • The wooden slats or metal bars are attached to the frame with huge gaping. These gapping allows the mattress and the box spring to breathe.
    • The panel bed's headboards display an elaborated design or sometimes are upholstered or tufted.

    Panel Bed Pros and Cons

    Knowledge of the pros and cons of the panel may contribute to the decision-making.

    Pros

    • Comes in various designs and styles, providing a range of options to choose from.
    • The added height of the box spring makes it easier to get in and out of bed.
    • The box spring increases the mattress's lifespan.
    • Provides ample support to the sleeper with the bed frame, box spring, and mattress.

    Cons

    • Requires box spring which adds to the expenditure.
    • Besides the extra cost, the box springs are needed to be flipped, rotated, and later replaced when their springs start losing their bounce.
    • Generally comes in traditional style and the same variations, which may not suit the modern decor.

    What Is a Platform Bed

    A platform bed is a strong-based framework with wood or metal slats or a solid panel. They sometimes come with a headboard or a footboard; besides that, the platform bed frame has a built-in base which requires no box spring.

    In addition, the platform beds have a simple and sleek design and are lower height-wise, which gives an impression of more free space in a small room. Therefore perfect for minimalists and tiny apartments.

    Platform Bed Pros and Cons

    Following are a few pros and cons of the platform beds.

    Pros

    • Lessen the cost of box spring
    • Most designs provide and come with storage spaces underneath, such as drawers.
    • Have a variety of contemporary designs.
    • The low profile of the frame provides stability.
    • Proffer optimal airflow to the mattress.

    Cons

    • The solid structure of the bed makes it hard to move around.
    • The low height of the bed makes it hard to get in and out of bed.
    • Wooden platform beds are not sturdy enough to withstand heavier individuals and can fracture over time.

    Panel Beds vs. Platform Beds: Which Requires a Box Spring

    Platform vs panel bed vs box spring: the question of stability and comfort. 

    As aforementioned, Panel beds need the box spring for stability, durability, and support of the mattress. It's a plus point that the box spring also adds to the height. On the other hand, a platform bed does not require any foundation or box spring.

    Panel Beds vs. Platform Beds: Which Is a Better Choice

    Panel bed vs platform bed: the judgment relies on the top four factors, price, comfort, occupancy, and design. 

    The panel beds are a little costlier than platform beds; however, they provide sufficient support and comfort. And though they are said to have a traditional appearance, Some panel beds are simple and elegant. Furthermore, their aesthetic is best displayed in large spaces and with conventional decor.

    Platform beds, on the contrary, seem like a better choice since the sleek minimalist designs are a good fit for small rooms. They curb the cost of foundation or box spring, provide ample support, and though they are said to be contemporary, Some platform beds carry nifty features like visible drawers. 

    However, the only downside of a platform bed is its height. It can be efficiently dealt with by using a bed raiser, which costs less than a box spring.

    Final Thoughts

    Panel bed vs platform bed: have specific key differences. However, they both are a perfect fit in their shoes, where one costs less, and the other is easier to get in and out. Nevertheless, the choice solely depends on the sleeper's preference, whether they want a lower bed or a better aesthetic.

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    {"faq":[{"_id":"d2370ba","title":"Can you use a panel bed without a box spring?","content":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003EA mattress foundation or box spring is necessary for panel beds. Without one, mattresses won't get the support they need and would sag too soon.\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E"},{"_id":"8b1c1c9","title":"Are platform beds lower than regular beds?","content":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003EMany platform beds have a slightly lower profile than other bed kinds. Although a mattress base is not necessary for a platform bed, it is acceptable to use one to increase the height of a platform bed.\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E"},{"_id":"f5f2cd8","title":"Does the platform bed feel different from than box spring?","content":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003EBox springs are excellent at absorbing shocks and have good reactivity. They are therefore perfect for those who struggle with back discomfort. Platform beds also provide excellent support and comfort. But because they promote air circulation, which keeps you cool, they are even better.\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E"},{"_id":"c3600b7","title":"Can you use a regular mattress on a platform bed?","content":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003EAll mattress varieties, including foam, latex, and memory foam mattresses, are supported by platform beds. Platform beds can accommodate innerspring mattresses, although box springs are a superior option. 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