Murphy Bed vs Wall Bed: 8 Differences And How To Choose The Right One

If you're living in a smaller space or want to make a guest room double as an office, both Murphy beds and wall beds offer excellent space-saving solutions.

However, there are significant differences between them, which can help you make the right choice. Here's an in-depth look at 8 key differences between Murphy and wall beds, complete with real-life scenarios for each point.

1. Design And Mechanism

Murphy Bed: A Murphy bed folds vertically into a wall or custom cabinetry and is attached securely with specific hardware. 

It uses hydraulic or spring mechanisms that make it easy to pull down and push up. This design is excellent for rooms where space is at a premium, like studio apartments, offices, or guest rooms that double as home gyms. With a Murphy bed, you can quickly convert a living space into a bedroom with minimal effort.

Wall Bed: While a wall bed also folds vertically, it is a broader term for any bed mounted to a wall or cabinet. Wall beds may have different complex mechanisms, relying on simpler hinges or pistons. 

These are ideal for rooms that don't require a frequent bed, such as a basement that doubles as a game room or a playroom that occasionally serves as a guest room.

 

2. Installation And Space Requirements

Murphy Bed: Due to their weight and complex mechanisms, Murphy beds typically require professional installation. They need adequate wall support, which can add to the installation cost. Murphy beds also need extra wall depth or custom cabinetry, especially for larger sizes like queen or king. 

This makes them ideal for people planning to use the bed regularly, such as in a small apartment where the bed needs to be used every night but folded away during the day.

Wall Bed: Wall beds are incredibly more straightforward models. They are often easier to install and can sometimes be set up without professional help. 

They can be mounted directly to the wall or placed in a cabinet without requiring as much structural support as a Murphy bed. This makes them suitable for infrequent use, such as in a home office that doubles as a guest room, where you only need to set up a bed occasionally.

 

3. Customisation Options

Murphy Bed: Many Murphy beds offer extensive customisation options, such as built-in bookshelves, fold-down desks, or sofa attachments. These additions make Murphy beds highly versatile and suitable for multipurpose rooms. 

For instance, in a home office, you can add a desk feature to the bed frame, allowing the space to be both a productive workspace by day and a comfortable bedroom at night.

Wall Bed: Wall beds focus more on basic functionality and may have fewer customisation options. Some models can be placed in cabinets, but typically, they lack features like desks or extra shelving. 

This makes wall beds a practical option for those who don't need added storage or multifunctional features, such as in a basement where space isn't as much of an issue.

 

4. Cost Considerations

Murphy Bed: Murphy beds are generally more expensive due to their patented design, high-quality materials, and hydraulic or spring mechanisms. 

Custom features like shelving, built-in desks, or lighting can also increase the cost. For someone who values a high-quality investment for long-term use in a small apartment or studio, a Murphy bed can be worthwhile.

Wall Bed: Wall beds are usually more affordable, especially with simpler designs without complex mechanisms. They're ideal for those on a budget who need a functional, space-saving bed that doesn't necessarily have to be used daily, like a guest bed in a home office. 

Wall beds offer the basics of a Murphy bed without the added expense, making them a good choice for occasional use.

 

5. Functionality And Ease Of Use

Murphy Bed: Thanks to their hydraulic or spring-loaded mechanisms, Murphy beds are designed for frequent use. They're easy to fold up and pull down, which makes them ideal for daily use in small apartments or multifunctional spaces like a living room that doubles as a bedroom.

Wall Bed: Wall beds may need more advanced mechanisms, making it more challenging to fold up and down regularly. 

This makes them better suited for occasional use, like in a guest room or a home office where the bed is used only a few times a year. While wall beds are functional, they're generally not built for everyday folding, so a Murphy bed is the better option if you need a daily-use bed.

 

6. Durability And Material Quality

Murphy Bed: Built for durability, Murphy beds are usually constructed from high-quality materials like solid wood or heavy-duty metal. 

This allows them to handle regular folding and unfolding without wear, ideal for apartments or homes where the bed will be used every night. They're often more robust than wall beds and can last years with proper care.

Wall Bed: Wall beds vary in quality depending on the manufacturer, and lower-cost models may be less durable. 

Some wall beds are made with lighter materials, making them more affordable but potentially less sturdy. This bed type is better for infrequent use, such as in a second home, a holiday cabin, or a guest bedroom.

 

7. Aesthetic Appeal And Integration With Room Decor

Murphy Bed: Murphy beds are often crafted to blend seamlessly with the room decor. When folded, they look like cabinets, bookshelves, or other furniture, helping to maintain a room's aesthetic appeal. 

This makes Murphy beds ideal for rooms where appearance is essential, like a living room that also serves as a guest room. You can customise them with materials, colours, and designs that match your style.

Wall Bed: Wall beds are generally more straightforward in appearance and focus more on functionality than aesthetics. They might look more like a standard folding bed or a basic cabinet and are typically less integrated into the room decor. 

Wall beds work well in spaces like basements or playrooms, where the primary concern is function over appearance.

 

8. Space-Saving Benefits

Murphy Bed: Murphy beds are excellent for maximising floor space, as they fold vertically and fit tightly against the wall. This is especially useful in small apartments, studios, or rooms that need to serve multiple functions. 

For instance, in a studio apartment, a Murphy bed allows you to create a full living room by day and a bedroom by night without sacrificing comfort.

Wall Bed: Wall beds also effectively save space, but they might not fold as compactly or integrate as well into the room design as Murphy beds. They're ideal for rooms that require occasional sleeping options without the need for daily conversions, like a home office where you occasionally host overnight guests.

 

Which Should You Choose?

Deciding between a Murphy bed and a wall bed depends on your lifestyle, budget, and how frequently you need to use the bed. Here are some pointers to help you decide:

Choose a Murphy bed if:

• You need a high-quality, durable bed for daily use.
• You want additional features like desks, shelves, or a design that blends with your room decor.
• You're willing to invest in professional installation and a higher price for a multifunctional, space-saving solution.

Choose a wall bed if:

• You need a bed primarily for guests or occasional use.
• You're looking for an affordable, functional bed without added features.
• You want an easy-to-install solution for spaces like a home office, basement, or spare room.

 

Conclusion About Wall Bed Vs Murphy Bed

If you're ready to make the most of your space, Reroom has a range of beds designed to suit every lifestyle and budget. Whether you need a daily-use bed with custom storage options or an occasional guest solution, Reroom offers high-quality, stylish beds that fit seamlessly into any room.

Each of our beds is crafted with quality materials to ensure durability, and many models offer easy installation so you can transform your room in no time. 

Do you need help determining which type of bed best suits your lifestyle? Our team is here to help you explore options and guide you to the bed that aligns with your space-saving goals and aesthetic preferences.

Take the next step toward a smarter, more flexible living space. Visit Reroom to browse our full range of furniture, and turn any room into a multifunctional haven today!

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Wall Bed Vs Murphy Bed

Can I Use Any Mattress With A Murphy Bed Or Wall Bed?

Most Murphy and wall beds can accommodate standard mattresses, but thickness is key. Murphy beds usually support thicker mattresses (up to 12 inches), while some wall beds may require slimmer options to fold away correctly. Always check the manufacturer's specifications to ensure mattress compatibility.

Are Murphy Beds And Wall Beds Safe For Kids Or Elderly Users?

Yes, both can be safe with the correct installation. Murphy beds with hydraulic or spring mechanisms are easier to lift and lower, making them accessible for kids or elderly users. 

Wall beds without these mechanisms may require more strength, so choosing one with easy-to-use features is advisable for accessibility.

Do Murphy And Wall Beds Require Specific Ceiling Height?

Murphy beds generally need a ceiling height at least 1-2 feet higher than the bed height when folded up. Depending on the design, wall beds can be more flexible with ceiling height requirements. Always measure your ceiling height and space before selecting a model.

Can I Move A Murphy Or Wall Bed If I Change Homes?

Murphy beds are often integrated into cabinetry or wall-mounted, making them harder to relocate. Wall beds with simpler frames may be easier to dismantle and transport, so they might be a better option if you anticipate moving in the future.

Can Murphy Beds Or Wall Beds Be Installed On Any Type Of Wall?

Most Murphy and wall beds require mounting to a load-bearing wall or studs for secure support. Avoid installing them on drywall alone, as they need solid backing to handle the weight and movement. Consult a professional if you need more clarification about your wall's suitability.