Panel Bed Vs Platform Bed: Which Is Right for You?

You cannot just walk into a furniture store and pick any other product. It isn’t as simple as you think since a one-time purchase; it will take many years for you to change or buy another. The question, therefore, is between a panel bed vs platform bed, which suits you best?

While the two products share a lot of similarities, they differ in multiple ways. For instance, the headboards and footboard styles of the two types of beds differ. Also, the overall construction of the two beds differs in many ways. Below is a breakdown of the difference between the two beds.

⇨ RELATED: Slatted Bed Base Vs Box Spring: What’s the Best?

Platform Bed

The platform bed is one of the oldest types of foundations. Even though slabs of boxy shape go way back to 4000 BC, the new box spring was invented in 1860.  Platform beds have a variety of options, and all have different ways of using them. For instance, you can choose between slats and plywood.

Pros

• The use of a box spring, not a must
• Guarantees under-bed storage

Comes with bookshelves and cubbies

Cons

• Too low for some users
• Can be heavy and bulky

 Style

In the world of bed frames, it’s important to understand the distinction between Panel Bed Vs Platform. As mentioned earlier, platform bed styles come with multiple functions and use. While box springs provide the needed support for a mattress, they are not as necessary as some people would want to put.

First, they are heavy and bulky and, on many occasions, not very well made. More so, platform beds are specifically made to provide support for your mattress with a simple platform. Usually, it is much thicker than panel beds.

Platform beds do not come in one style, and they come in several forms on the user’s taste. If you can get bookshelves, cubby holes, all for storage or trundles for extra sleeping space, a more complex one will have drawers below to save space, especially if your bulky dresser cannot fit into your room.

One thing you should know about platform beds is that they eat a lot of space in your room. Therefore, it can be quite challenging to maneuver around the house. If you have any plans of moving out anytime soon, a platform bed may not be the choice for you.

Another factor to consider when buying a platform bed is whether to use bed slats or plywood. While some people prefer plywood to platform slats, I would not recommend plywood since they tend to bend over time since they aren’t as thick as slats. Over time they get damp and are prone to rot.

Height

Platform beds sit low and mostly do not have any storage units below them. For individuals who have a problem getting into or out of bed because of weight or disability, platform beds may be the best choice for them. Other types of bed platforms sit a few inches from the ground. However, they are pricier than ordinary platform beds. If you are working under a slightly tight budget, you can get niffy bed risers to raise a few inches in your bed.

Price

Approximating the price of a platform bed is quite tricky because of the range. Some will go for a few dollars, while others will cost you thousands of dollars to acquire. Even though such a trait sounds negative, it is okay since everyone will get that within their budget.  Unlike the panel bed, once you have bought a platform bed, you will not be required to buy any other accessory to make it function well.

Panel Bed/Box Spring Bed

This is a bed that requires springs to function well. The reason why they cannot work without box springs is that there is practically nothing else to support your mattress apart from the springs. After purchase, you have to ensure that you fit the springs as required; otherwise, your warranty may be deemed invalid. What is better, a panel bed or a platform bed? There are various advantages and disadvantages of panel beds.

Pros

• Many options in the market to choose from
• Has a traditional-looking shape
• They are highly affordable

Cons

• Additional costs for rails and frames
• Cannot function without a box spring

Style

While they have few similarities with platform beds, panel beds have a more traditional look and offer more style to head and footboards. If you are looking to bring a whole new look to your bedroom, these are some of the styles to consider. Is a panel bed the same as a platform bed? You choose to use solid wood, slats, wicker, metal rods, and even rough-hewn logs.

The frame of a panel bed can either have slats or just three metal bars in the middle surrounded by a ledge all around. The shelf is made to support the box. One significant disadvantage of this kind of supportive box is that it is prone to sagging.

Height

The panel bed is way taller than a platform bed. If you have a problem with either going into or coming out of bed, a panel bed is not the best option for you. The major contributor to height is the box spring in it. Take, for instance, if your box springs 11 inch tall and the mattress 22 inch, then you are looking at 23 inches off the frame. Another option is purchasing a frame that sits lower than the ground, which allows the spring to sit on it.

Price

Just like the platform bed, prices of panel beds vary depending on style and material used in the manufacture. The difference between beds is that a panel bed comes with an extra cost. You have to incur an additional charge for purchasing a box spring. The prices of the two beds are almost similar because you will have to incur an additional charge when it comes to buying a panel bed.

Conclusion

Looking at the advantages and disadvantages of the two beds, I would recommend a platform bed anytime, no matter the circumstance. When comparing Panel Bed Vs Platform, what’s the difference between panel and platform bed, look here, you will not have to incur an extra cost, and they come in different shapes and sizes. Also, you will not have to incur an additional charge after purchasing a platform bed.

If your room is too small and you need extra space, a platform bed works best for you. Finally, if you don’t mind about height and would not love any additional cost after purchasing your bed, a platform bed suits you. However, if height matters to you, then a panel bed suits you.