If you're conflicted about choosing a king vs. queen bed size, let Leesa help you decide. You know you want to sleep comfortably, whether transitioning from a queen-size mattress to a king-size bed or from a full-size to a queen. Let's dig in.
King vs. Queen Bed Size Dimensions
King and queen beds offer ample room for all types of sleepers. Please reference the following chart to compare bed sizes. This chart will help you decide which larger mattress is right for you — a Cal king, a standard king mattress, or a queen mattress.
Mattress Type | Width | Length | Depth | Weight |
California King | 71.5" (5.95') | 83.5" (6.9') | 11' | 109 lbs. |
King | 75.5" (6.29') | 79.5" (6.6') | 11" | 106 lbs. |
Queen | 59.5"(4.95') | 79.5" (6.6') | 11" | 86 lbs. |
*mattress dimensions based on Leesa Original Hybrid
There are other iterations of the standard king-size mattress.
King vs. Queen Bed Size: Pros and Cons of a California King-Size Mattress
Some people love a California king-size bed in their primary bedroom. Here are some of the reasons why:
Pros
- They are large and spacious.
- Cal kings are ideal for taller or larger individuals.
- These mattresses give each sleeping partner room to sleep, lounge, and cuddle fur babies or kids.
- Their shape resembles a rectangle rather than a square.
Cons
- California king mattresses are big
- Cal kings are heavier than standard king-size mattresses and make any move a two-person job.
- They won't fit in smaller bedrooms.
- It's sometimes challenging to find linens for this bed size.
King vs. Queen Bed Size: Pros and Cons of a King-Size Mattress
King-size beds are popular for good reasons. Here are some of them.
Pros
- A standard king-size mattress is excellent for anyone under 6'2" in height.
- It gives you, your sleeping partner, and any visiting pets or kids a comfortable sleeping space without disturbing the bed's other occupants.
- It usually fits in most bedrooms measuring over 10' x 12'.
- King-size bed linens and accessories are easy to find.
Cons
- These mattresses are not suited for people over 6'3" tall.
- They fit best in a larger bedroom.
- Sheets, blankets, duvets, and other accessories are more expensive than those for queen beds.
- Because a king-size mattress is heavier, it's harder to move and rotate.
For extra versatility, you can buy two twin XL mattresses and put them on Leesa's adjustable bed base, resulting in customized comfort for you and your sleeping partner. This configuration, called a split king, is ideal for watching TV or reading. It also suits people with breathing issues like sleep apnea or asthma.
King vs. Queen Bed Size: Pros and Cons of Queen-Size Beds
More Americans choose a queen-size mattress than any other size bed. (The first runner-up is a king-size bed.) Let's explore the pros and potential cons of this popular mattress size.
Pros
- A queen-size bed is an excellent choice for average-sized to large bedrooms.
- Queen-size mattresses offer extra space and are suitable for singles or couples.
- These beds are perfect for people under 6'2" in height.
- Queen-size linens and other accessories are less expensive than those for king beds.
Cons
Despite the queen bed's popularity, there are some cons associated with this mattress size. They include:
- Queen beds aren't a good choice for very tall people (over 6'2").
- Queen mattresses are still relatively heavy, making them difficult to move or rotate.
- A queen mattress should be placed on a queen frame, so if you're sizing up from a full-size bed, you'll need to buy a new base or bed frame.
How to Find the Perfect Mattress for You
As you shop for your new mattress, we suggest you consider some of the following items.
Sleeping Position
The position in which you sleep can also help you decide what size bed is right when shopping for a new mattress.
1. Stomach Sleepers
Stomach sleepers take up more space than back or side sleepers. A regular king-size mattress may be the optimal choice.
2. Side Sleepers
Side sleepers tend to take up less room on a mattress. If you have a partner who favors a different sleep position, consider their needs as you pick the best mattress.
3. Back Sleepers
Back sleepers can take up a lot of mattress surfaces. You might find a queen bed a good choice if you're single. But, if you and your sleeping partner are both back sleepers (or a combination of a back and stomach sleeper), you should consider a king-size mattress, if possible.
Bedroom Size
Of course, the size of your bedroom helps narrow the debate between king vs. queen-size mattresses. A smaller bedroom may make a king-size mattress out of the question. If that's the case, opt for a queen-sized bed.
Before shopping, measure your bedroom to determine which mattress sizes work in your space. Also, measure your front door entrance and bedroom doorway to ensure they are large enough to accommodate the bed and bed frames. If you live in a multi-story condo or apartment building, you should also consider the elevator's size.
Sleeper Size
If you or your partner are up to 6'2" tall, you can go with a standard king mattress or a queen. You're probably cut out for a California king if either one of you is taller.
A sleeper on the heavier side may need to pick a firmer mattress. Leesa's hybrid mattresses offer the ideal combination of support plus billowy comfort and pressure relief.
Singles vs. Couples
Singles tend to prefer a standard queen mattress over other sizes. Both queen-size and king-size mattresses are perfect for couples. But, if one of you is a back sleeper and the other is a stomach sleeper, you may be more comfortable in a king bed.
Leesa offers affordable and comfortable memory foam mattresses in California king, standard king, and queen-size configurations. We also provide a range of hybrid mattresses, giving you the best of both worlds: memory foam comfort coupled with the stability, support, and air circulation of inner springs.
Our mattresses are easy to set up and can be ordered with our signature in-home delivery and setup. Visit Leesa today and find the perfect new mattress for you.
FAQs
How wide is a king bed?
A standard king-sized mattress is 75.5" across or almost 6' wide.
What is a split king bed?
A split king bed uses Leesa's adjustable base and two twin XL mattresses. This luxe setup includes a wireless remote to elevate or recline your side of the bed, two A/C USB charging ports, a massage function, and under-the-bed LED lighting.
Is a king better than a queen?
It depends on your situation, height, weight, how you sleep, and the size of your sleeping space. Please read our guide above for tips to help you choose.
What size bed is best for couples?
It depends on the couple! Since nearly half of Americans sleep on a standard queen-size mattress, you might assume that it's the best size bed. However, king beds offer more space and comfort, allowing your pets and kids to crawl in (or on.) Consider your needs, room size, and budget to help you decide.
What’s the difference between a king and a California king?
A standard king-size mattress is shaped more like a square and is about 6' x 6' in diameter. On the other hand, a California king is shaped more like a rectangle and offers a long length, making it a good choice for very tall individuals or couples.
