King vs. Queen Bed: Mattress Dimensions Guide

A king bed is the largest bed available on the general marketplace. There are three types of king-size beds:

1. 1. Standard king: A standard king-size mattress measures 76 inches wide by 80 inches long.
2. 2. California king: A California king mattress measures 72 inches wide by 84 inches long.
3. 3. Split king: A split king mattress consists of two mattresses, sometimes called twin XL mattresses, each measuring 38 inches wide by 80 inches long. A split king is essentially two long twin beds side-by-side.

A king-size mattress is generally the best mattress for couples. Of the standard mattress sizes, a king offers the most space for each sleeper, and it’s especially practical if either sleeper tends to toss and turn during the night; the extra inches of space can keep you from disturbing each other’s sleep.

A standard queen-size mattress is 60 inches by 80 inches. Queen beds are the most popular mattress choice. Apartment dwellers and others with limited space may prefer queen-size beds because they don't take up as much space as king-size beds.

Anyone seeking a new bed for a smaller room may find that a queen-size bed offers a balance of sleeping space and room space. A standard queen bed provides more than enough room for single sleepers to spread out in any sleeping position.

When upgrading from a twin or a full bed, both a king-size mattress and a queen-size mattress will feel roomy. For most sleepers, the choice between a king and queen bed depends on personal space limitations and price.

1. 1. Room space: For a smaller bedroom, a studio apartment, or a guest bedroom, the footprint of a queen bed frame may better match the room size. For large, airy bedrooms, a king-size bed can fill the extra space.
2. 2. Sleeping space: Depending on your sleeping position, you may benefit from the extra space that a king-size bed provides. Stomach sleepers may find that a king-size mattress is the perfect size for their needs, but side sleepers who curl up to sleep may not need this extra space.
3. 3. Price: A new mattress is a significant investment, and king-size beds almost always cost more than queen-size beds. If you know you need a larger mattress but price is a limiting factor, a queen may be the right mattress for you.
4. 4. Weight: Whether you opt for an innerspring mattress with a box spring or a memory foam mattress that arrives in a box, mattresses are heavy and unwieldy. If you know you'll be moving from apartment to apartment, a queen-size bed will be much easier to move.

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