6 Best Bed Frames Under $500 for Comfort and Style
A $500 bed frame budget gives you room to choose more than a basic place to put a mattress. You can prioritize a wooden headboard, a softer upholstered look, hidden storage, or even an electric base that raises your head and feet. The best choice depends on which of those features will improve your everyday setup.
In our search for the best bed frame under $500, we compare six Queen configurations with clear differences in construction and use. We look at what the purchase includes, how the mattress is supported, how storage opens, and what installation involves. These choices suit a range of bedroom sizes and decorating styles.
Below, we explain where we would spend the budget, what each frame does well, and the tradeoffs that help narrow the decision.
Best bed frames under $500: quick comparison
We would start with the Alexis for a complete wood bed, the Mellow for the lowest frame cost in this shortlist, and one of the Allewie models when enclosed storage is the priority. Use the final column to rule out a mismatch before reading each review.
Queen frame-only or base-only configurations. Budget bands reflect our October 18, 2026 review of the frame price, before tax, delivery, and optional assembly.
| Bed frame | Best for | Budget band | Main tradeoff | Skip if |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZINUS Alexis Deluxe Wood Platform Bed | Best Overall | $300–$400 | Firm headboard; no enclosed storage | You need a padded headboard or built-in storage |
| Novogratz Bushwick Metal Bed | Best Metal Frame | Under $250 | Unpadded backrest; several assembly steps | You want an open foot end or a soft backrest |
| Mellow Naturalista Classic Platform Bed | Best Budget | Under $200 | No headboard or enclosed storage | A matching headboard must be included |
| Allewie Upholstered Bed with Four Drawers | Best Drawer Storage | Under $250 | Drawers need pull-out space; fabric needs vacuuming | Walls or furniture would block the drawers you need |
| Allewie Lift-Up Storage Bed | Best Lift-Up Storage | Under $250 | Storage access requires lifting the mattress platform | You need frequent access without lifting the platform |
| Best Choice Products Ergonomic Adjustable Base | Best Adjustable Base | $300–$500 | Heavy base; decorative headboard not included | Your mattress cannot be used on an adjustable base |
Swipe within the table to compare all columns.
In this guide
- Compare our six picks
- Three questions before you choose
- Best Overall: ZINUS Alexis Deluxe Wood Platform Bed
- Best Metal Frame: Novogratz Bushwick Metal Bed
- Best Budget: Mellow Naturalista Classic Platform Bed
- Best Drawer Storage: Allewie Upholstered Bed with Four Drawers
- Best Lift-Up Storage: Allewie Lift-Up Storage Bed
- Best Adjustable Base: Best Choice Products Ergonomic Adjustable Base
- How to choose a bed frame under $500
- Drawer vs. lift-up storage
- Related setup guides
- Frequently asked questions
Before you choose: three questions to narrow the list
- What must the $500 cover? These six purchases exclude a mattress. If you also need one, choose the frame budget first. Headboards are included with the Alexis, Bushwick, and both Allewie models.
- Do you need enclosed storage? Compare the Allewie drawer and lift-up beds by how you will reach stored items. For a fixed platform without that hardware, start with the Alexis, Bushwick, or Mellow.
- Will you use powered positioning? Consider the Best Choice Products base only if your mattress is suitable for adjustable use. Otherwise, compare the five fixed frames.
1. ZINUS Alexis Deluxe Wood Platform Bed
Queen · Rustic Pine · wood frame with headboard
We recommend the Alexis as our overall pick for a complete wood bed with a matching headboard, included slats, and room left in the $500 budget.
Key details
- Reviewed budget band
- $300–$400
- Listed frame footprint (L × W)
- 81.3 × 59.7 in
- Frame and mattress support
- Solid wood frame and wood slats; steel interior framework
- Headboard
- Included; wooden, unpadded
- Storage or positioning
- Fixed platform; no enclosed storage
- Foundation setup
- Included slats; no separate box spring required for the intended setup
Why we picked it
The included headboard is what separates the Alexis from the simpler Mellow platform. We would spend the difference when a coordinated wood bed is the goal and a separate headboard would otherwise become another purchase. Its wooden exterior is reinforced with steel inside the frame.
The slats provide the intended mattress support without a separate box spring. Assembly involves connecting the rails, center support, and headboard before fitting the slats. We would choose this layout for a conventional fixed bed rather than pay for storage or powered movement we do not need.
Pros
- Wood headboard and mattress-support slats included
- Steel interior framework complements the wooden exterior
- A complete platform setup without a separate box spring
Cons
- Wooden headboard is not padded
- No built-in enclosed storage
Who Should Skip This
Skip the Alexis if a cushioned backrest or enclosed storage is essential. We would compare the Allewie drawer bed for an upholstered headboard and divided storage. For a wood platform without an included headboard, the Mellow Naturalista is the simpler option.
Before choosing: Choose Queen, Rustic Pine, and Wood Frame with Headboard. The frame-only option is a different configuration.
2. Novogratz Bushwick Metal Bed
Queen · Off White · metal bed with headboard and footboard
We choose the Bushwick for its decorative metal headboard and footboard, with two fixed mattress-support height settings.
Key details
- Reviewed budget band
- Under $250
- Listed frame footprint (L × W)
- 82.5 × 62 in
- Frame and mattress support
- Metal frame, metal slats, side rails, and center legs
- Headboard
- Included; spindle headboard and raised footboard
- Storage or positioning
- Two fixed assembly-height settings; no enclosed storage
- Foundation setup
- Included slats; no separate box spring required for the intended setup
Why we picked it
The off-white spindle design suits cottage, farmhouse, and lighter traditional bedrooms. Its base has two height settings, chosen during assembly. We would decide between them using the intended mattress height and the items we want underneath. These settings do not provide powered head or foot adjustment.
The metal slats, rails, and center legs form the support system. There are several components to organize, so this is a conventional assembly project rather than a folding base. We like the open design for easy access when wiping the frame, but pillows must provide any cushioning against the headboard.
Pros
- Metal slat support included
- Decorative headboard and footboard included
- Two mattress-support height settings
Cons
- Metal headboard offers no soft cushioning
- Multiple rails, braces, and slats to assemble
Who Should Skip This
Skip this model if you prefer a bed without a raised footboard or need a padded backrest. We would choose the Mellow platform for an open foot end and no headboard, or compare the Allewie upholstered drawer bed when a covered headboard matters more.
Before choosing: Select Queen and Off White. Pick the foundation height during assembly and check the resulting mattress height.
3. Mellow Naturalista Classic Platform Bed
Queen · Natural Pine · 12-inch Classic frame
We recommend the 12-inch Naturalista Classic as our budget pick: it has the lowest reviewed Queen frame price in this shortlist, with a simple wood platform and included slats.
Key details
- Reviewed budget band
- Under $200
- Listed frame footprint (L × W)
- 79.5 × 59.5 in
- Frame and mattress support
- Solid wood frame and wooden slats with non-slip tape
- Headboard
- Not included; no raised footboard
- Storage or positioning
- 12-inch fixed frame; no enclosed storage
- Foundation setup
- Included slats; no separate box spring required for the intended setup
Why we picked it
The Natural Pine finish and low visual profile keep attention on the wood, bedding, and surrounding furniture. We like this choice when you already have a separately supported headboard, prefer artwork above the bed, or want to leave that wall clear.
The selected version is the 12-inch Classic. It includes wood slats with non-slip tape and is intended for use without a box spring. Twelve inches describes the frame height. Measure to the top of the slats, then add your mattress thickness to compare the completed bed height with the setup you prefer.
Pros
- Lowest reviewed Queen price in this shortlist
- Wood slats included; no separate box spring needed
- No tall headboard or raised footboard
Cons
- Headboard is not included
- No integrated drawers or lift-up compartment
Who Should Skip This
Skip the Naturalista if you want a matching headboard in the same purchase or need enclosed underbed storage. We would start with the Alexis for a complete wood bed, or the Allewie lift-up bed for hidden bulk storage.
Before choosing: Choose Queen, Natural Pine, and 12 Inch. Calculate the completed bed height with your own mattress.
4. Allewie Upholstered Bed with Four Drawers
Queen · Dark Grey · Square button-tufted headboard
We choose the four-drawer Allewie for divided storage you can access without raising the mattress platform, plus an upholstered headboard.
Key details
- Reviewed budget band
- Under $250
- Listed frame footprint (L × W)
- 83 × 62.2 in
- Frame and mattress support
- Metal structure with 12 wooden slats
- Headboard
- Included; upholstered panel with two mounting heights
- Storage or positioning
- Four pull-out underbed drawers
- Foundation setup
- Included slats; no separate box spring required for the intended setup
Why we picked it
Four separate compartments suit linens, seasonal clothing, and accessories you want to organize by category. Compared with the lift-up Allewie, we prefer this layout for reaching one compartment at a time without moving the mattress platform.
The Dark Grey Square configuration combines button tufting, a metal structure, and wooden slats. The headboard can be mounted at 41.7 or 43.7 inches; this changes the panel position rather than the bed platform. Plan the drawer opening paths around nightstands and other furniture before deciding where the bed will sit.
Pros
- Four separate storage drawers
- Upholstered headboard with two mounting heights
- Wood slat support included
Cons
- Furniture can obstruct the drawer opening paths
- Upholstered surfaces need regular dust removal
Who Should Skip This
Skip this frame if a wall or nightstand would block the drawers you need to use. We would compare the Allewie lift-up model instead, provided there is room to operate its platform. For large bedding items, also compare the usable compartment sizes rather than drawer count alone.
Before choosing: Choose Queen, Dark Grey, and Square. Leave room to open each drawer in your planned furniture layout.
5. Allewie Lift-Up Storage Bed
Queen · Beige · Modern wingback headboard
We recommend the lift-up Allewie for bulky bedding and seasonal items when a broad hidden storage area matters more than separate drawers.
Key details
- Reviewed budget band
- Under $250
- Listed frame footprint (L × W)
- 84.25 × 63 in
- Frame and mattress support
- Wooden slats, metal lift structure, and upholstered frame
- Headboard
- Included; upholstered wingback design
- Storage or positioning
- Gas-assisted platform lift for underbed storage
- Foundation setup
- Included slats; no separate box spring required for the intended setup
Why we picked it
Raising the slatted platform gives you a wider view of the underbed area, with gas supports assisting the movement. We would use this layout for spare comforters, pillows, and items that do not need to come out every morning.
The selected Beige Modern model includes the wingback headboard, frame, and wooden slats. Its moving platform and gas supports add assembly steps beyond a basic fixed platform. The useful tradeoff is storage access: you gain a broad compartment, but every visit to it involves raising the mattress platform.
Pros
- Broad underbed area for bulky stored items
- Gas-assisted lifting mechanism
- Wingback headboard and wooden slats included
Cons
- You must raise the mattress platform to access storage
- Lift hardware adds assembly steps
Who Should Skip This
Skip the lift-up design if you want to retrieve stored items frequently without raising the mattress, or your layout cannot accommodate the platform movement. We would compare the four-drawer Allewie when the drawer paths can stay clear.
Before choosing: Select Queen, Beige, and Modern. Match the mattress to the lift mechanism’s instructions and allow room for the raised platform.
6. Best Choice Products Ergonomic Adjustable Base
Queen · ergonomic electric base only
We choose the Best Choice Products base when powered head and foot positioning is the feature you will use most, ahead of a decorative headboard or storage.
Key details
- Reviewed budget band
- $300–$500
- Listed frame footprint (L × W)
- 80 × 59 in
- Frame and mattress support
- Fabric-covered metal electric base with a moving deck
- Headboard
- Decorative headboard not included
- Storage or positioning
- Independent head and foot lift; wireless remote and presets
- Foundation setup
- Compatible mattress directly on the moving deck; no box spring
Why we picked it
The wireless remote controls separate head and foot movement and preset positions including Zero Gravity. Vibration modes, USB charging, underbed lighting, and a side pocket add conveniences, but we would choose the base primarily for reading and relaxing in adjustable positions.
The listed overall height is 14.25 inches and item weight is 137 pounds. Plan delivery and positioning before adding the mattress. This is a Queen base-only purchase, so the mattress and decorative headboard are separate. Check the exact mattress model for adjustable-base compatibility and any surrounding bed frame for the intended installation.
Pros
- Independent head and foot adjustment
- Wireless remote with Zero Gravity and memory controls
- USB charging, lighting, and a side pocket
Cons
- Heavy to carry and reposition
- Mattress and decorative headboard are separate
Who Should Skip This
Skip this base if your mattress is not approved for adjustable use or the $500 must also cover a mattress and decorative headboard. If positioning is optional and you want a complete fixed wood bed, we would compare the Alexis. For other powered options, see our zero gravity bed comparison.
Before choosing: Choose Queen and the base-only configuration. Confirm that your exact mattress supports adjustable-base use.
View Best Choice Products Ergonomic Adjustable Base on Amazon
How to choose the best bed frame under $500
Budget for the complete setup
Start with the exact size, color, and included components. A low advertised price for a smaller frame does not establish the Queen price, and a base without a headboard is a different purchase from a complete upholstered bed. Add delivery and any assembly service you actually need before deciding how much remains for the mattress and bedding.
We would put the first part of the budget toward the intended support system, then spend the rest on the feature that matters most: a matching headboard, enclosed storage, or adjustable positioning. You do not need to spend all $500 if a simpler frame already meets those priorities.
Match the support to the mattress
Check the mattress maker’s requirements for slat spacing, slat width, center support, and foundations. “No box spring needed” describes a frame’s intended setup; it does not replace the mattress instructions. For an adjustable base, check the exact mattress model’s suitability for repeated bending.
Our illustrated guide to the parts of a bed shows the difference between side rails, slats, a center beam, and a separate foundation. Knowing which components are included makes product comparisons much easier.
Choose the material around how you use the bed
| Type | Why we would choose it | What to consider |
|---|---|---|
| Wood | Visible grain and a furniture-like appearance | A wooden headboard is firm; wood species and construction vary |
| Metal | An open silhouette and surfaces that are easy to wipe | Joint design, slat support, and assembly matter more than the material name alone |
| Upholstered | A softer-looking centerpiece and a covered headboard | Fabric needs routine vacuuming; the structure beneath it still matters |
| Adjustable base | Powered positioning for the head and feet | Mattress compatibility, electrical access, and delivery weight |
We would not choose by promises of silence alone. Connections, slat holders, floor contact, and assembly all affect how a frame behaves. Our guide to quieter bed frames looks more closely at those construction details.
Check completed height and installation
Compare mattress-support height plus mattress thickness with the sleeping height you prefer. A frame’s overall height, headboard height, and storage clearance are different measurements. An adjustable headboard may change only the panel position.
Then think through delivery and assembly: stairs, turns, the largest packed component, and whether the base can be carried into place by the available people. Storage hardware and electric mechanisms add parts and weight, so we would choose them for a clear benefit rather than as automatic upgrades.
Drawer storage vs. lift-up storage
Both styles put the space beneath the mattress to work. The better option depends on what you store and how often you retrieve it.
| Detail | Drawers | Lift-up platform |
|---|---|---|
| Access | Pull out one compartment | Raise the mattress platform |
| Useful for | Separated groups of linens or clothing | Bulky bedding and less frequently used items |
| Opening space | Clear paths beside the drawers | Clearance for the platform’s lifting movement |
| Daily routine | No need to raise the mattress | Access involves moving the mattress platform |
We would choose drawers for items we want to sort and reach individually. We would choose lift-up storage for larger bedding items and a broad view of the compartment. In either case, compare the actual interior dimensions with the items you plan to store.
Frequently asked questions
Is $500 enough for a good bed frame?
Yes. Our shortlist includes Queen wood platforms, metal beds, upholstered storage beds, and an adjustable base below that budget at the time of review. The useful question is what you need included. A simple platform may leave more of the budget available for a mattress than a bed with storage or powered positioning.
Do these bed frames need a box spring?
The fixed platforms in this guide include their own slat support and are sold for use without a separate box spring. The adjustable base supports a suitable mattress on its moving deck. Match the intended arrangement to your mattress instructions rather than adding another layer automatically.
Does a more expensive bed frame offer better support?
Price alone does not establish support quality. Higher prices may pay for upholstery, a larger headboard, storage hardware, or electric controls. We compare the support structure and mattress requirements first, then decide whether the extra features justify the difference.
Can you get an adjustable bed frame under $500?
Yes. The Queen Best Choice Products Ergonomic base falls within the reviewed budget. It offers head and foot adjustment, but it is a different kind of purchase from a decorative bed frame. Check the selected size, the mattress’s adjustable-base compatibility, and whether you want a separate headboard.
Does the price include a mattress and headboard?
These are frame-only or base-only configurations, so the mattress is separate. The Alexis, Bushwick, and both Allewie beds include a headboard. The selected Mellow platform and Best Choice Products base do not include a decorative headboard. Product photos may show additional styling pieces.
Which bed frame would we choose?
For a complete wood bed with a headboard, we would start with the ZINUS Alexis. Choose the Mellow Naturalista for the lowest reviewed frame cost in this shortlist, or the Novogratz Bushwick for a decorative metal headboard and footboard. Allewie’s drawer bed and lift-up model address different storage routines. Choose the Best Choice Products base when powered positioning is the feature you will use most.
Choose the structure and features your bedroom setup needs, then keep any remaining budget for the mattress and bedding you prefer.
