Low Profile Vs. Standard Profile Box Spring

March 22, 2022 | Casper Editorial Team

When putting together your bed set up, it’s easy to become confused with the overwhelming amount of options available. Each component of your bed is important, and the perfect box spring or mattress foundation will give you the support you need for a peaceful night’s sleep. 

Coming in a range of sizes and materials, box springs sit between the mattress and bed frame and are sold at a variety of price points. With all the choices out there, there’s a box spring for everyone.1

Not sure which kind of box spring is right for you? In the following article, we’ll break down low profile vs standard box spring mattresses, and the pros and cons that go along with each. Rest assured that with a little research and thought, you’ll be able to pick out the best box spring for your bed set up. Let’s dive in. 

Our mattress foundation is the box spring reinvented as a sleek and supportive base for your mattress. Perfect for any mattress or bed, the Casper Mattress Foundation is the perfect choice.

What Is A Low Profile Box Spring?

A low profile box spring is considered the “new and improved’ version of a regular box spring. Sleeker and thinner, this type is primarily used by people who don’t want to add extra bed height.

Because newer mattress models tend to be taller, a low profile box spring is a smart way to balance the overall height of your bed. This type of box spring will also keep you closer to the floor and will let your mattress do its job on its own. So if the overall height of your mattress is already tall, a low profile bed might be the model for you.2

Another aspect to point out is that a low profile box spring was designed with convenience in mind. This model is lightweight, therefore easy to move. If you like to rearrange your space or have a few big moves ahead of you, you might like the maneuverability of a low profile box spring.

Difference Between A Low Profile and Standard Box Spring 

Traditional box springs are typically made of a metal grid pattern or metal springs enclosed by a metal or wooden frame. They are a lot heavier than a low profile version and heighten the bed significantly. Standard box springs are typically around nine inches tall, whereas low profile models run between five inches to five and a half inches tall.

In short:

  • Standard box springs are tall, heavy, and typically consist of springs and a grid made from heavy material.
  • Low profile box springs are typically much more simple frameworks usually made without springs. They are shorter and more lightweight than standard box springs. 

Originally box springs were always bought in combination with a mattress set, but now that isn’t necessarily the case. Many people are switching over to the newer models of box springs because of their convenient lightness and ability to be transported from place to place a lot easier.  

Benefits of a Low Profile Box Spring 

Low profile box springs are the best box spring for anyone wanting to upgrade their sleep game. Here are some of the benefits of making the switch to a low profile foundation:

  • Weight A low profile box spring weighs significantly less than a traditional model, making it easier to move around, especially if you live on your own.
  • Reduced height If you have a tall mattress, a standard boxspring might make climbing into bed more of an effort than you’d like. A low profile bed allows you to opt for the extra tall and cushy mattress without having to invest in a bedside ladder.
  • Low maintenance A low profile box spring is a perfect option for someone who moves a lot or lives alone. Low maintenance as they come, one person should be able to move a lower bed with relative ease.
  • Easier to store Because they generally are around five inches tall and weigh a lot less than their counterpart, low profile box springs are easy to store. This is especially helpful if you live in a tiny apartment.
     
  • Aesthetics Sleek and low profile, low profile box springs are the epitome of modern style. If you are concerned about how to cover a box spring, low profile is the best choice for you.

Benefits of a Standard Box Spring 

More of a traditionalist at heart? Check out the benefits of sticking with the original version of a box spring:

  • Support Standard box springs are known for their incredible overall support. Whether you have back pain or just want to feel more supported at night, sometimes it pays to go with the original model.
  • Airflow Sitting between the frame and the mattress, the box spring provides adequate airflow and keeps the mattress cooler. This is an optimal choice for someone who runs hot at night. 
  • Height Because of its height, this type of box spring is ideal for raising your bed further off the floor. If you have a hard time getting in and out of bed or simply prefer being higher up, this is an ideal choice for you.
  • More opportunity for under-the-bed storage – With great height comes great storage possibilities. A taller box spring may offer more room for taller storage containers to slip seamlessly under the bed.
  • Sturdiness – Traditional box springs are a lot sturdier due to the durability of the materials used in their production as well as their heavier weight.
     
  • Mattress protection The standard box spring has been known to protect the mattress by absorbing impact. 

How To Decide Between Low Profile and Regular

Your choice of what box spring to purchase is entirely up to your personal preference. Your sleep is a big deal, and many factors go into your choice of what to buy.  Here are a few key points that we’ve rounded up for you to consider before you make that final decision.
 

Know The Basics

Before deciding whether you want to go with the more traditional or modern model, take a moment to ask yourself the following questions:

  • Do you prefer sleeping higher up or do you prefer a lower bed?
  • What is your budget?
  • Does the weight of your box spring matter to you? 

Check The Dimensions 

Before you take your new box spring home, make sure you know the dimensions of your mattress and bed frame. There’s nothing worse than having your mattress falling over the sides of your bed base. By taking a tape measure and doing some simple measurements, you can easily avoid this problem. For reference, your box spring should be the same size as your mattress. 

Consider Your Mattress

One key point to consider is your mattress type. If you have a heavy or thick mattress, you might want to go with a standard box spring. Certain types of mattresses such as the innerspring mattress or hybrid mattress are made for a traditional box spring, thus making it difficult to use in combination with a newer model. 

But if you have a modern one such as a memory foam mattress, we suggest going with a low-profile version. The memory foam mattress is more suited to a platform setting rather than a box spring, which breaks down the material over time. 

Additionally, if you have a modern mattress that tends to run taller, it might be in your best interest to invest in a low-profile version. Since modern mattresses are usually taller, you want to make sure you don’t buy a box spring that will make it impossible to get into your bed at night. 

Choose Your Materials 

The material that your box spring is made of is another factor useful in deciding which type to purchase. Traditional box spring frames are made of heavy-duty materials like wood or metal, used to enclose the springs or metal grid. Although these qualities ensure the sturdiness of your bed set up, they can make moving day quite cumbersome. 

The Perfect Foundation for Quality Sleep

At Casper, we’re nerds when it comes to quality sleep. We know it can be downright daunting to pick out a new box spring, mattress, or frame. That’s why we strive to help you find the perfect sleep setup catered to your unique needs, whether you’re looking to ease your back pain with a new mattress or on the hunt for an entirely new bedroom setup.

The good news is we’ve reinvented the box spring with the Mattress Foundation, an easy-to-assemble frame and foundation duo that’s durable and comfortable.

The bottom line is, we’re committed to providing quality sleep options for everyone. From mattresses to bedding to box springs to bed frames, Casper is here to offer you a world of choices. 

With Casper, you’ll hit the hay each night knowing that you’re in good hands. 

Sources: 

  1. Sleep Foundation. Do You Need A Box Spring?  https://www.sleepfoundation.org/mattress-information/do-you-need-a-box-spring
  2. The Sleep Judge. What is a Low Profile Box Spring and Why You May Need One. https://www.thesleepjudge.com/what-is-a-low-profile-box-spring/