King Vs Queen Bed: Detailed Mattress Size Comparison

When you start experiencing aches and pains, or realize that you’re not as comfortable as you used to be, it’s a clear sign that it’s time for a new bed. Before you even begin to think about the type of mattress you want, deciding on a mattress size is always step one. King vs queen bed - which is best, and what exactly makes them different?

It’s a question we hear often. This detailed mattress comparison will answer every question you have about king vs. queen mattresses, so you can make your decision in no time! Both these mattress sizes will offer a range of benefits to help you sleep better.

Comparison Chart: King Size Bed Vs Queen Bed

It can be tough to choose between a king vs queen bed, especially if you have a master bedroom. The size difference between queen and king is 16 inches in width. Both king and queen beds are 80 inches long.

On the other hand, maybe you have a lot of space to work with, so a king mattress will be your perfect choice. Have a narrow bedroom? It will be worth your while to consider a California king size mattress. See there’s a lot to think about - but we’re about to make things simple for you.

The quick summary provides an easy comparison of king and queen beds. Read on for a more comprehensive breakdown of these two popular mattress sizes.

What To Consider

When you weigh up the pros and cons of buying a queen vs king bed, there are several factors to consider other than size. From your sleeping position to your budget, below we break down key considerations that will help guide you towards the perfect purchase.

Size of the bedroom

Before you add a king-size mattress to your cart - take a second to measure your bedroom. The last thing you need is to buy a mattress that is too big for your space. A cluttered bedroom can negatively impact your sleep quality. As a guide, it’s best practice to leave at least 2 feet of space around your mattress.

Not only will this perimeter give you ample room to lay down and get up comfortably, but it will also help you achieve symmetry in your bedroom design. If you lean towards a queen-size mattress, your bedroom should be at least 10 x 10 feet. A king-size bed is best suited to a bedroom that measures 10 x 12 feet.

Unfortunately, you can’t change the size of your room, so it’s essential to select mattress size dimensions that will complement your space rather than crowd it.

Who you sleep with

Partner disturbance is one of the leading contributors to poor quality sleep. From snoring to back pain, and even excessive movement, your partner's sleep woes can make it impossible for you to get a good night's sleep.

If all of this sounds too familiar to you, using this bed size comparison guide might be exactly what you need to improve your sleep. There are a few key things to look out for if you get easily disturbed by your partner. To minimize disturbance created by a partner who moves around too much - a king size bed is the best option as it provides extra space.

Make sure the mattress is either a memory foam mattress or a hybrid mattress. Both these models are made with motion isolation features that absorb movement. So even if your partner moves or gets up early, your sleep won’t get disturbed.

Most partners share the bed but don’t share the same sleep schedule. You might hit the hay at 9 pm each night, but your partner may read until 11 pm. In this case, a split-king mattress will be a sleep-saver. When paired with an adjustable base, split-king size mattresses are a top choice for couples needing some independence in their sleeping space.

How often will you move

If you have ever had to drag your king-size mattress down several flights of stairs, you will probably agree that a smaller mattress size is better for frequent movers. Whether you are vagabonding around the world or have a job that requires you to pack up and leave often, you should really consider downsizing your mattress size so it’s easy to move.

Depending on the type of mattress you have, there can be up to 20 lbs difference between a queen and king-sized bed. To avoid the frustration of transporting your mattress, it helps to have some foresight before you make your purchase. If you are worried about the weight of the mattress, queen size is considerably lighter.

Sleeping position

Sleeping positions vary considerably between people. Some sleep like a log and only occupy a small section of the bed, while others sleep like a starfish and sprawl their bodies across the entire mattress.

When you are selecting your mattress size, it helps to think about your sleeping style to make a practical choice. Back sleepers and side sleepers generally require extra space, so a king bed will likely be better suited than a queen size, especially if you share the bed.

Stomach sleepers don’t require as much room so a queen mattress may suffice. Before you dive into comparing a queen bed vs a king bed, keep your sleeping position in mind to help you find the exact mattress size to meet your unique needs.

How much time you spend in bed

Is your bed reserved strictly for sleeping, or do you tend to do other things such as reading, watching TV, or even working from bed? Depending on your lifestyle, those who spend copious amounts of time on their bed usually benefit from a larger mattress size such as a king mattress or California king.

Budget

The cost of your mattress will depend on the type of mattress you go for, as well as the size. The price difference between king size and a queen size mattress is usually a couple of hundred dollars. So if you are looking to save some bucks, a queen size mattress will be more pocket-friendly than a king size mattress.

As well as price, other benefits you should factor in include mattress deals, free shipping and returns, warranty periods, and sleep trials. The modern mattress market is designed for the consumer and there is always a great deal with stacks of benefits on offer from the best mattress brands. So take your time and do your research.

The cheapest option won’t always be the best - so compare the best king vs queen bed side by side and consider other essential factors so that you will have peace of mind that your investment will last.

King vs Queen Bed Size Variations

Customers can also customize queen and king size mattresses. There are a few size variations to these standard mattress sizes. Most size variations do not come as standard and are much more expensive and even difficult to find online.

• Split-Queen Mattress Size - A split queen bed isn’t as typical as a split-king mattress. However, it’s similar in design. A split queen mattress comprises two mattresses that measure 30 inches by 80 inches. Together, these two mattress dimensions measure to the exact size of a standard queen size mattress. The key benefit of a split-queen mattress is that you can buy two different levels of firmness which some couples may prefer. The downside is that this is not a standard US mattress size so it may be hard to come by.
• Olympic Queen Mattress Size - An Olympic queen size mattress is larger than a standard queen size mattress, but smaller than a king. Measuring 66 inches by 80 inches, sleepers can enjoy an extra 6 inches of width. The extra space can come at a cost. If you want a larger mattress than a queen size, it’s best to go for a king size mattress. Most newer mattress types on the market don’t have Olympic queen size variants, plus it’s hard to find a bed frame in this size too.
• Queen RV Mattress Size - A queen RV mattress is five inches shorter than the standard queen size bed. Measuring at 60 inches by 75 inches, these mattresses are specifically designed to fit in recreational vehicles. Much like other mattresses with custom dimensions, this is a mattress size that is hard to come by. Full size mattresses are more commonly used in RV’s as they can accommodate two people in a compact space.
• Split-King Mattress Size - Split-king mattresses have become increasingly popular with the rise in popularity of the adjustable base. Split-king’s are essentially two twin XL mattresses connected together. The main benefit is that couples can choose a unique mattress type for each side of the bed. When paired with a split-king adjustable base, users can independently adjust each side of the mattress to a unique height for comfort that’s completely customized.
• King RV Mattress Size - Similar to a queen RV mattress, king RV mattress sizes are specifically made for recreational vehicles and trailers. A king RV bed is the biggest possible mattress that can be used in a vehicle. King RV mattresses are generally 72 inches by 80 inches - however, this can vary slightly depending on the width and length of the vehicle.
• California King Mattress Size - The California king mattress is a top choice for tall sleepers. While the surface area of a California king mattress is the same as a standard king size mattress, it’s longer and narrower. Cal king’s are 72 inches by 84 inches, giving sleepers an extra 4 inches in length. It’s the best option for those who want to avoid their feet from hanging off the end of the bed, or for master bedrooms with a narrower design.
• Texas King Mattress Size - Measuring in at 80 inches by 98 inches, the Texas king mattress is the second-largest mattress available in the ‘oversized’ mattress category. It’s 4 inches wider than a standard king size bed, and 18 inches longer. It’s suitable for very tall people or families who enjoy weekend sleep-ins together.
• Wyoming King Mattress Size - The Wyoming king size mattress is 84 inches by 84 inches, with a unique square design. This size bed fits comfortably in a bedroom that is at least 14 feet by 16 feet. Like most oversized mattress varieties, this size mattress is not easy to come by.
• Alaskan King Mattress Size - Finally, we have the mammoth Alaskan king size mattress - the largest oversized mattress you’ll find. This mattress size is 108 inches x 108 inches, and to fit comfortably in a bedroom, the space must be at least 16 by 16 feet. The Alaskan king size mattress suits those who want to splurge and sleep like a king or queen.

Smaller Mattress Sizes

King vs queen bed comparisons are designed to help sleepers choose a mattress that perfectly suits their unique requirements. If you feel a king mattress or queen mattress may be too large for your bedroom size, then downsizing to a smaller mattress is a great option.

Mattress Types: King vs Queen Bed

Knowing what type of mattress to sleep on is equally as important as selecting the right mattress size. There are a variety of mattress types that offer unique benefits, so one may suit you more than another. The following breakdown will shine some light on the most popular mattress you can buy online.

• Memory Foam Mattress: the superior contouring capabilities of memory foam mattresses make them an excellent option for all sleeping styles. The adaptive nature of a memory foam mattress takes the pressure off muscles and joints to help people experience restorative sleep.
• Hybrid Mattress: hybrid mattresses are increasingly popular as they combine the benefits of memory foam with the added stability and bounce of encased coils. Many prefer hybrid mattresses because they perfectly blend a soft and firm feel and have great cooling properties.
• Spring Mattress: many traditional mattresses are made from springs. These mattresses have been around for a very long time. Spring mattresses can be supportive, and some prefer them. However, they are very heavy and can deteriorate quickly.

FAQs

Is a king mattress better than a queen mattress?

The key difference between a king vs queen mattress is that you get 16 inches of extra width if you buy a king size. If you need extra space, or have a very large bedroom, then a king mattress may be the best option for you. But if you want to save floor space, but still want a decent size bed, a queen mattress may be better. It all depends on your room size and preference of space.

What is the difference between a king and California king size mattress?

Both mattresses have exactly the same surface area. The only difference is that a California king size mattress is 4 inches narrower and 4 inches longer. California king mattresses are better suited to those who want extra leg room or have a narrow bedroom.

Is a full bed enough for two people?

A full size mattress is 54 inches by 75 inches. This means each sleeper will get around 27 inches of sleeping space. If you feel this will be too squishy, a queen size mattress is a better choice.

Is there a bigger bed than a king?

Yes! There is a range of oversized mattresses that exceed the dimensions of a standard king bed. You can get a Wyoming king size mattress that is 84 inches by 84 inches. A Texas king bed that is 80 inches by 98 inches. Or even an Alaskan king size bed that is 108 inches x 108 inches. However, very few companies stock these sizes.