Written by
Amanda Doyle
Sleep Researcher Writer
Reviewed by
Pavel Ufimtsev
Sleep Science Coach
Whether you’re just setting up your first apartment or downsizing, a metal bed frame can make your life both lighter and more portable.
If you’ve got a good memory foam mattress, you may have already gotten rid of your box spring; with a quality metal bed frame, you can get rid of your headboard and footboard as well.
Olee Sleep 14 Inch Heavy Duty Steel Slat Bed Frame
Brooklyn Bedding Super Duty High Rise Platform
Most Durable
Brooklyn Bedding Super Duty High Rise Platform
Classic Brands Hercules Black Heavy Duty Metal
Best Heavy Duty
Classic Brands Hercules Black Heavy Duty Metal
Zinus Mia Metal Platform Bed Frame with Headboard
Best Headboard
Zinus Mia Metal Platform Bed Frame with Headboard
What is a Metal Bed Frame?
Generally, a metal bed frame is an all in one unit that is either foldable or easy to set up. The best metal bed frames offer open storage below and built-in slats or a grid to keep your mattress from sagging.
Your metal bed frame can also provide you with a pleasing aesthetic; you can get metal bed frames with a clean, minimalist look, such as the metal platform bed frame from Zinus, the Lorelei. With most of the metal bed frame options on this listing, you can skip the box spring; your bed will be supported by metal slats or a heavy duty steel mesh.
The best metal bed frame may take two people to set up. If you need a metal frame that you can easily set up and take down alone, you will want to get one of the foldable sturdy bed frame options, such as the Layla.
Why buy a Metal Bed Frame?
If you don’t have a box spring but don’t want your mattress on the floor, a metal bed frame with metal slats or a supporting grid can be a simple, economic and very portable choice.
Not everyone likes the look of a large bed with a headboard and a foot board. If you like a cleaner look, the metal bed frames in this review will allow you to find the size and weight tolerance you need and create a clean, simple look for a great price.
One of the frames on the listing offers a headboard, and nearly all offer the brackets necessary to add a headboard later if your tastes change.
Best Metal Bed Frames: Top 8 Reviews
1. Top pick: Layla Metal Platform Base
The Layla Metal Platform Base is one of the best metal bed frames for someone who needs a flexible frame. This metal bed frame comes in all the standard sizes as well as Twin XL. The wider frames will come in multiple panels that can easily be folded out and bolted together.
Setting up this metal frame is quite simple. Unlike metal bed frames that require you to attach the legs and flip the whole frame, the legs on the Layla are attached and folded up; all you need to do is fold them out until they lock in place.
You can add a box spring if you choose and if it won't put your mattress at risk, but this frame has a metal mesh that will protect your mattress from sag.
Pros
- You can test drive this metal bed frame for 120 nights
- There are 13 inches of clearance under this bed; if you need a spot for suitcases or even a low drawer unit, this will work
- This metal bed frame is quiet and cool
Cons
- Make sure the legs snap into place when you unfold the frame to avoid having it fold up under your mattress
- This frame is a bit utilitarian; you may want a ruffle or a cover for a more finished look
- There is a center support at the fold line that may limit your storage options
Layla Metal Platform Base
- This is an incredibly strong metal bed frame for the weight. The twin frame is only 25 pounds and the California King is just 50 pounds.
- The twin frame will hold up to 600 pounds; the larger frames will hold up to 1200 pounds.
- This frame is easily to move. Just fold it back up for transport.
2. Runner Up: Olee Sleep 14 Inch Heavy Duty Steel Slat Bed Frame
For those with some tool skills, the Olee Sleep 14 Inch Heavy Duty Steel Slat Bed Frame is an excellent metal frame option. This metal bed frame features built-in slats that need to be settled in and secured with the included tools.
This bed can be used without a box spring, but like many metal bed frames, the slats are just 1 inch wide. Assembling the basic frame is quite simple. To get the initial square frame together, parts are slotted to make the process easy.
You will need to hold part of the frame together to insert the bolts, but the weight will be manageable by that point thanks to those slotted connections. This metal bed frame comes with all the hardware and the Allen wrench to secure the bolts. Make sure you tape the Allen wrench to the frame for easy disassembly!
Pros
- This metal bed frame is visually appealing all on its own; if you want to add a headboard, you can, but minimalists will love the clean lines of this bed
- This frame offers a strong center line support to avoid sag and squeak
- This bed doesn't slide around and has feet to avoid the risk of scratching
Cons
- You will need to screw this together; this is not a good temporary frame as a foldable frame would be
- There are 13.5 inches of clearance under this bed for storage, but the center supports may get in the way
- The frame is slightly wider than standard mattress sizes
Olee Sleep 14 Inch Heavy Duty Steel Slat Bed Frame
- This doesn't come with a headboard but it is pre-drilled so you can easily install one.
- This frame is extremely durable for the weight; the full frame is just 40 pounds and will hold 700 pounds.
- You can get a full refund within 30 days and this frame comes with a 5 year warranty.
3. Most Durable: Brooklyn Bedding Super Duty High Rise Platform
If you need a bed that can tolerate a great deal of weight and activity, the Brooklyn Bedding Super Duty High Rise Platform metal bed frame is a great choice. This sturdy metal frame is foldable and requires no assembly.
Those looking for a metal frame that offers great storage will love the 12 inches of clearance under the bed. These metal bed frames will support more than 1,500 pounds, even in the twin. The mattress support is a mesh; you can use a box spring if you like but be aware that this will make for a very tall bed.
You can add a headboard and footboard to this metal bed frame with the custom brackets from Brooklyn.
Pros
- You can test drive this frame for 30 days to be sure it will work for you
- This frame is incredibly easy to setup; simply unfold it and put down the mattress
- The grid is small enough to easily support your memory foam mattress
Cons
- There is a gap between the end of the frame and the top and bottom legs, which may limit storage
- This frame is a bit rudimentary; if you love a clean minimal look, this one may not work
- The angle brackets and multiple center legs may cut into your storage options
Brooklyn Bedding Super Duty High Rise Platform
- The Brooklyn Platform ships small; the twin XL frame is just 40.5 inches by 39 inches by 4 inches thick. If you need to store this in a closet when folded up, you can.
- The total height of the frame is 13.75 inches. If you need to use your twin bed as a day bed, this will be comfortable both for seating and for sleeping.
- The center support has no two legs to reduce the risk of bending or sagging.
4. Best Budget: Zinus Lorelei Bed Frame
If you're looking for a metal bed frame that will be easy on your eyes as well as your budget, the Zinus Lorelei Bed Frame is a great choice. There is some assembly when your bed arrives, but the rectangles that support both ends of the metal frame are welded, not bolted. This bed will be quite comfortable and quiet once you get the slats installed.
A box spring is not necessary, but if you're concerned about mattress sag you can certainly use one. Like many metal bed frames, there is a center support from end to end and side to side to increase the stability of this bed.
If you need a metal bed frame with plenty of storage, the Zinus has the added bonus of no angle brackets, so you can fill it with bins and boxes right up to the supports.
Pros
- This is a really sharp looking bed with a 5 year warranty. The twin will hold 350 pounds and the larger sizes will hold 700 pounds
- The full sized bed frame ships at just 35 pounds so you can easily get this frame to your sleeping space alone
- The rails have a slight tack to hold the mattress in place
Cons
- The assembly can be a bit of a challenge on your own; set yourself up to be able to push the frame against a wall to get the center support lined up
- There are no angle brackets for great storage, but side pressure could lead to too much stress on connectors, squeaking and metal fatigue
- The rails sit on top of the center support but don't include a fastener
Zinus Lorelei Bed Frame
- This bed frame is 14 inches tall and has 13 inches of clearance for bags, balls and boxes.
- The slats fit snugly into the side runners for stable, squeak-free sleep.
- The square design and tubular construction keeps this metal bed frame looking like a minimalist design piece and not a rollaway bed.
5. Best Value: Nectar Metal Bed Frame
For those who love their box spring and just need a basic metal bed frame, the Nectar Metal Bed Frame is a terrific choice. This frame is quite low to the ground at just 7 inches high, but once layered with box spring and your mattress it will be ideal.
This frame comes with locking casters and a sturdy center support. This simple and sturdy frame comes with all the necessary tools to turn this frame into a comfortable, minimalist bed.
If you love the look of a floating bed, this frame will not be visible unless the viewer gets low enough to look for wheels.
Pros
- You can add slats to this frame if your mattress won't work with a box spring for a low, snuggly bed
- You can remove the wheels if you prefer and the leg ends are capped
- You can get an additional extender bar for the California king
Cons
- You can't use this frame without something on top of it to support your mattress
- This frame is 50 pounds in the box; you may need to open the carton and carry it to your sleeping spot piece by piece
- This frame comes with a 3 year warranty but only a 50 night trail, unlike other Nectar products
Nectar Metal Bed Frame
- The wheels are quite large and sturdy; once locked, this bed will be quite stable.
- The rails are adjustable; if you get a bigger box spring and bed, this frame will work!
- This frame comes in a carton that is just 9 inches wide and 4 inches high. The total frame carton is 6 feet long.
6. Easy Assembly: Avocado Metal Bed Frame
The Avocado Metal Bed Frame features a finished mid-century look with curved legs attached to a durable metal frame. The legs are made of a fiberglass infused resin that will protect you from noise or motion transfer; this bed will be incredibly quiet.
The legs are also designed to avoid scratching your floors. This low metal bed frame will require a box spring or slats to support the mattress.
While some metal bed frames offer very little storage space, this metal bed frame is easy to set up and still gives you room for discreet storage.
Pros
- If you're avoiding a metal bed frame because you hate the rollaway look, this is your bed
- The black frame and legs will not rust
- There are headboard and footboard brackets on the frame
Cons
- You must have some foundation system with this frame
- No wheels; set it up where you want it
- If you need storage, you only have 8 inches of clearance
Avocado Metal Bed Frame
- This frame offers an angled support at the top and bottom and inset center and side supports; from the side, the only item visible is the elegant black legs.
- If you need a low bed, you can add Avocado slats, or you can use a standard box spring for a taller bed.
- The resin legs make it easy to sleep quiet; there will be no motion transfer between the floor and your bed frame.
7. Best Heavy Duty: Classic Brands Hercules Black Heavy Duty Metal
If you're in a small space and need plenty of storage, the Hercules Black Heavy Duty Metal bed frame is a terrific choice. This metal frame requires no tools; just unfold it and open up the legs.
One of the niftiest features of this bed frame is that the only angle brackets are at the end. If you need to put boxes and bins under this bed, you've got plenty of space and no brackets to work around. This bed offers 13 inches of clearance for bins and boxes. The legs of this metal bed frame are capped to avoid scratches or carpet snags.
The grid design will support your mattress with no need for additional protection; you can even put an air mattress on this bed.
Pros
- One wide is a twin, bigger frames require multiple frames. Folding this down and storing it can make this a simple guest bed
- The locking catches on the end of the bed are bright red, making this process easier to remember
- This frame folds quite small; the queen frame only weighs 43 pounds
Cons
- The appearance of this frame is pretty rustic; if you don't want the rollaway look, get the headboard and footboard brackets
- This bed will be quite tall once assembled, especially if you want a base
- The headboard and footboard brackets are, of course, sold separately
Classic Brands Hercules Black Heavy Duty Metal
- Sturdy folding legs have a locking feature to avoid collapse.
- There is little risk of squeaking thanks to the many sturdy cross-members.
- You can add a headboard or footboard for a more permanent look.
8. Best Headboard: Zinus Mia Metal Platform Bed Frame with Headboard
For those who love a minimalist look but really want a headboard, the Zinus Mia Metal Platform Bed Frame with Headboard may be the best metal bed frame option. This metal bed frame requires no box spring. Unlike the other metal bed frames in this listing, your mattress is supported on wooden slats.
The sturdy metal frame offers clean, straight corners and you'll have 12 inches of clearance for storage. The twin bed holds 300 pounds, while the larger frames hold up to 700. The larger frames will also have a center support beam for comfortable, squeak free sleep.
Pros
- This bed comes with a 5 year warranty
- The Zinus frame is quite lightweight for a fully finished bed; the queen is only 66 pounds
- The headboard hardware is built into the unit. No extra expense!
Cons
- You will need a friend to put this together quickly; if working alone, keep a support handy
- The slats of this bed are made of plywood; you may need to replace these slats if outgassing is a worry
- The larger beds will have to have a central support and may make storage a challenge
Zinus Mia Metal Platform Bed Frame with Headboard
- This bed offers a clean design for a classic look.
- Setup is easy and fast. All tools are included.
- Wooden slats will provide all necessary support for your memory foam or latex foam mattress, as well as allowing plenty of airflow.
How to Choose a Metal Bed Frame?
Size
If your home or sleeping area is particularly small, the clearance under most of these beds could be a great gift. Most of the metal bed frames listed above offer a 12 inch clearance, though some do have support members that may get in the way.
Price
For a complete bed frame, the beds listed above are a very good price. While they may not offer a permanent look, the beds in this listing provide you the chance to get your mattress off the floor, skip the box spring, and enjoy some storage.
Weight
Thanks to the metal slats and grid supports of the frames in this listing, these bed frames are remarkably lightweight. The folding frames in particular also offer convenient guest space and a wonderful option beyond the traditional rollaway bed.
Portability
If you need a durable bed but need a metal bed frame that you can easily move from home to home, the foldable frames above may be the best metal bed frames for your mobile life.
Once you’re ready to settle into one place for a time, or if your tastes change, you can purchase headboard and footboard brackets to keep using your current bed frame and just add on new pieces.
Pros and Cons of a Metal Bed Frame
Aesthetic
It must be said that some of the folding metal bed frames listed above are not especially attractive, though they are a quite durable option. If you love a finished look, you may need to add a fabric skirt to finish the look of your made up bed.
Storage
If you need all the storage you can get under your metal bed frame, make sure you double check the number of angle brackets included in the frame and the need for a center support. A queen-sized bed or larger will likely come with a center support, and this will limit your storage options.
Support
The best metal bed frames are “set up and forget it” units. If you are a light sleeper, make sure you size up in terms of weight tolerance. If you push a frame to the extremes of its weight or activity tolerance regularly, you will get squeaks and metal failure sooner.
FAQ
- Are metal bed frames good?
A metal bed frame can be a wonderful lightweight, portable option.
- How much do metal bed frames cost?
You should expect to pay no more than $150 for a large metal bed frame.
- Do metal beds squeak?
A metal bed frame that is subjected to too much pressure over time may develop a squeak.
- Which is better wood or metal slats?
It depends on your mattress. A memory foam mattress may do better with a grid support.
- How do I keep my metal bed frame from moving?
Lock the wheels if available, and if not, you may have to put the frame in a corner or against a wall if your floor is very slick.
- Do metal bed frames break easily?
Fatigue is what causes metal to break. If at all possible, buy a sturdier bed than you need to avoid over-stressing supports and connections.
- Is a metal bed frame sturdy?
If you are a restless sleeper, look for a metal bed frame with plenty of angle supports.
- Are metal beds good?
Metal bed frames can be both portable and aesthetically pleasing.
- Do metal bed frames fit all sizes?
You can get a metal bed frame in sizes from twin to California king.
Sleep Sturdy!
To keep things both comfortable and portable, the best option is the Layla Metal Platform Base. Your mattress will need no other support, you’ll have plenty of storage, and you can easily move this on your own.
Keep an eye out for coupons and sales; Layla has a number of terrific sales and promotions throughout the year.
