The bed is not only a place where you sleep, but also work, study, watch TV shows, and talk on the phone with friends and family. That is why we value the purchase of a suitable bed frame. Classified by materials, metal, wood, and upholstered bed frames are the most common.
According to Google Trends, upholstered bed frames are more popular than metal bed frames in the United States, while wood bed frames are the least popular of the three.

In this article, I will focus on the two most popular bed types: metal bed frame and upholstered bed frame. I will also provide you with super practical tips on selecting the best bed frame for your needs.
Metal vs. Upholstered Bed
Some of you may be unfamiliar with these two types of bed frames. Let’s briefly introduce them.
A metal bed frame is a bed base that is completely made from metal materials, such as steel, iron, and brass. It is usually constructed of metal side rails, metal supporting legs and metal slats, with some models also including a headboard and footboard. They also come in a variety of colors.

Upholstered bed frames have a cushion over wood and are covered in fabric or leather. They come in a wider range of colors and styles. So you can always find one that matches your bedroom decor style.

Durability
Because metal bed frames are entirely made of metal, their sturdiness and durability are determined by the type of metal used, the thickness of metal tubes/rails, and the anti-rust treatment. Steel bed frames are the most durable and heavy-duty of all types of metal bed frames. Because they can bear different conditions such as humidity, fire, and more. Furthermore, thicker metal is generally of higher quality.
Nowadays, iron beds are becoming more popular thanks to their lower costs. Some people may be skeptical of their rust resistance. However, the iron materials used in today’s iron beds are always pickled to prevent corrosion in wet environments.
Let us now discuss upholstered bed frames. Most of them are crafted of a wood, solid wood and engineered wood combined frame or engineered wood and metal combined frame, which ensures their long-term durability. If you want a long-lasting upholstered bed, consider one that is made entirely or partially of solid wood. And if you’re looking for a more affordable choice, upholstered beds with a wooden+metal frame are both strong and affordable. In terms of upholstery, faux leather and polyester fabric are the most durable and low-maintenance options.
Weight Capacity & Support
Metal bed frames are lightweight, their weight limit can range from 250 to 2,000 pounds. Based on search results from Amazon and Wayfair, a twin size iron bed can hold 250-350 lbs, and a full/queen/king size bed can can support 500-800 lbs. Steel bed frames can withstand weights of up to 1000 pounds and even more.
The weight limit for an upholstered bed can range between 400 and 900 pounds. According to Amazon and Wayfair search results, a twin size upholstered bed frame can hold 400-500 lbs, and a full/queen/king size bed frame has a maximum weight capacity up to 600-900lb. Bed frames made of solid wood can withstand the most weight.
The support system is one of the most significant differences between them. Metal bed frames for sure features a metal slatted base, some of them have 3-4 slats, while others have over 10 evenly spaced slats. Most upholstered bed frames feature horizontal wooden boards.

Both metal slats and wooden slats are intended to provide additional support so that your mattress doesn’t sink or slide. The thickness of metal or wooden slats as well as the spacing between slats, are important factors in determining the slats’ lifespan. In general, the closer the slats are spaced, the less likely they’re to break up. However, please keep in mind that jumping on a bed frame with a slatted bed base may cause the slats to break immediately or prematurely.

Storage
It goes without saying that metal bed frames provide valuable under-bed storage. The size of the storage space is determined by the size of your bed frame and ground clearance. For example, a king size metal bed frame will obviously have more storage space than a twin size bed. Furthermore, the higher the bed frame is raised above the ground, the more items that can be stored beneath it. What kinds of items can be stored beneath? Boxes, baskets, shoes, and luggage are ideal. A metal bed with ample storage is ideal for small bedrooms or guest bedrooms.
Upholstered bed frames with storage have become popular in recent years. There are two kinds of storage functions. The first has an open compartment underneath the mattress that can be accessed via the gas lift mechanism. Another style has storage boxes at the side or foot of the bed. These drawers are made of various materials; some have a wooden frame, while others have a metal wire frame. The opening and closing functions differ slightly as well.
Yaheetech upholstered bed with storage is equipped 4 wire netting drawers with rollers are measured 31.5″ L x 19.7″ W x 6″ H. Which provides sufficient storage space to keep bedding or clothes within easy reach. Crafted in a modern style with clean-lined silhouette and classic button-tufted diamond patterns, this upholstered platform bed frame is an excellent modern interpretation of elegance and sophistication. Even better, the headboard height can be adjusted from 39.5′′ to 44′′ to accommodate different mattress sizes while still allowing a full view of the tufted embellishment. For added stability and durability, it combines a wooden slat system with solid metal center rails. It will look great in contemporary, modern, and traditional bedrooms.

Style
Metal bed frames can be very modern and contemporary, or they can be vintage and one-of-a-kind. If you prefer a farmhouse or vintage bedroom style, consider a full-metal bed with curved silhouettes and delicate, traditional design-inspired patterns or embellishments on the head and foot. Details such as ball finals, scrollwork, canopy tops, and more. If you prefer minimalist or contemporary bedrooms, a metal bed with clean lines and a simple design, such as a metal bed with slatted headboard, is a good option.

Upholstered bed frames outperform other types of beds in terms of versatility. You can always find one that matches your room’s style, whether it’s modern, glam, traditional, or contemporary. If you want a glam-style bedroom, go for one with a pink upholstered headboard and gold-tone legs. A streamlined, light-colored fabric or leather upholstered bed with no extra tufting is a good choice for contemporary bedrooms. Furthermore, upholstered beds with winged or arched headboards or tufted headboards can add a touch of elegance to your sleeping oasis if you want your bedroom or apartment to be classic and elegant.

Price
Metal bed frames vary in price from less than $70 to over $1,000, depending on factors like construction, materials, and weight capacity. Metal bed frames are generally less expensive than upholstered bed frames, though frames with vintage designs or made from brass will be more costly.
The cost of an upholstered bed frame can range from $100 to more than $2000. It depends on factors such as frame material, upholstery material, and design. Upholstered bed frames with a luxurious upholstery, such as genuine leather, natural wool boucle, or with a solid wood frame, will be more expensive.
About Yaheetech
Yaheetech, established in 2003, is a professional brand specializing in home and office furniture. With 39 self-owned warehouses worldwide, we deliver a wide selection of high-quality furniture products. We deliver within 3 days locally and offer a 30-day no-questions-asked return and exchange policy.
Operating our markets in 10 countries covering Northern America and Europe for more than 15 years, we have successfully become an industry-leading furniture brand with 1.9 million global sales.
Through continuous effort, we have gained Best Seller among Furniture Supplies on over 10 online shopping platforms. These include Amazon, Walmart, eBay, Wayfair, Wish, Cdiscount, ManoMano, OTTO, Rakuten, Real, and more.
We commit to providing the best comfort and enjoyment for your home and office.
Conclusion
Upholstered bed frames will meet the needs of most people due to their stronger construction, powerful storage capabilities, and diverse design styles. Metal bed frames are a good option if you’re on a tight budget or just need a temporary bed frame. Hope this bed frame buying guide is helpful to you!