Very easy to assemble - I mean, really easy! Bed does not squeak at all. I had a 11" Innerspring Mattress (from WayFair) to go on top of this - no box spring needed. I did, however, add a 4" foam topper from my previous mattress just for my own comfort and the bed is in great height. To be exact it reaches mid thigh and i'm 5'3".  I used the bed skirt. It doesn't quite fit on perfectly; however, the top portion of the skirt doesn't really need to fit the frame like a glove because I have a headboard with it. Great purchase, would definitely recommend this to anyone.   

Pros: does not squeak, seriously easy to assemble, high enough to use without a box spring, plenty of storage space underneath
Cons: none whatsoever!