Cabinet Beds vs Murphy Beds Which Space-Saving Option Is Right for You
- Sarah Ames

- Aug 8
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 18
In today's fast-paced world, many of us live in limited spaces, where every square foot counts. Whether you're in a compact apartment, a multifunctional guest room, or a home office that needs to serve double duty, choosing the right furniture can make a big difference. This is where cabinet beds and Murphy beds come into play. They are not just clever inventions; they can radically transform your living space. But what are the key differences, and how do you determine which is best for you? Let’s explore!
What’s the Difference?
At first glance, cabinet beds and Murphy beds might seem similar as they both offer a clever way to save space. However, their designs and functionalities set them apart. Both beds featured in this review are from Bestar, I own both and highly recommend!
A Murphy bed folds down from the wall, making it easy to convert any room into a sleeping area in moments. For example, a wall-mounted Murphy bed can be lowered from a vertical or horizontal position to provide a full-sized bed that blends seamlessly with the room design.
Conversely, a cabinet bed resembles a stylish piece of furniture, such as a sideboard. The bed neatly folds out from inside the cabinet, allowing it to serve as a decorative element when not in use. For instance, a cabinet bed could act as a stylish console in your living room, maintaining aesthetics while providing a comfortable sleeping space.
Choosing Between Cabinet Beds and Murphy Beds
The choice between a cabinet bed and a Murphy bed largely depends on your specific needs and personal style.
Choose a cabinet bed if you want something that is compact, portable, and furniture-like. They are free standing, making them a flexible choice for those who like to rearrange their living spaces. For example, in smaller apartments, a cabinet bed can free up more room for daily activities.
On the other hand, a Murphy bed is great if you're looking for a more permanent, built-in structure. Murphy beds often provide the same feel as a regular bed, enabling you to enjoy a comfortable night's sleep. When tucked away during the day, they maximize your living area for other activities, enhancing usability in spaces like home offices.
Best Fit for Small Spaces
When it comes to maximizing small spaces, both cabinet beds and Murphy beds can significantly enhance your living experience.
In cramped apartments, a cabinet bed often shines due to its compact design. It can fit snugly into a corner or blend with other furniture, offering versatility. For example, you might find a cabinet bed fitting perfectly in an urban studio apartment, where space is extremely limited.
For dedicated guest rooms or home offices, a Murphy bed can be a game changer. During the day, it entirely disappears into the wall, allowing for full use of the area. This is particularly beneficial if the space also serves as a workspace or entertainment area. In a home office, a room can instantly shift from a professional setting to a cozy guest room.

Comfort Matters
Comfort is crucial when choosing between a cabinet bed and a Murphy bed. Fortunately, both options can deliver comfort for daily sleep.
Both types use real mattresses that provide better support than traditional sofa beds or air mattresses. In fact, many people use these beds as their primary sleep solution.
Ease of Use
Both cabinet beds and Murphy beds excel in terms of user-friendliness.
Murphy beds often require minimal effort for setup, typically lifting or lowering with simple motion. Cabinet beds function similarly, as you just pull them out like a drawer and easily flip them open. You do not need to be particularly strong to operate these beds, making them accessible for users of all ages, and it takes seconds to transition from day to night. This ease of use is a significant advantage for families or anyone wanting a hassle-free solution.

Final Thoughts
In the debate between cabinet beds and Murphy beds, the right choice will largely depend on your lifestyle and needs. Both options offer effective space-saving solutions that cater to various living situations. If your priority is affordability, versatility, and the look of standard furniture, a cabinet bed might be your ideal match. Alternatively, for a more permanent solution with ample floor space, you might lean towards a Murphy bed.
Ultimately, both cabinet beds and Murphy beds allow you to use the comfort of a real mattress and the promise of a good night’s sleep. Take some time to evaluate your living situation, and you’ll be well-equipped to make the perfect choice for your home! For a more in-depth look at the differences between these innovative beds what my full Youtube video here.















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