King Mattress Sizes Explained: Standard, Split, and California

Did you know you spend about 26 years of your life sleeping? That’s why choosing the right mattress is so important. If you need extra room for a partner, more length for your height, or space for kids or pets, a king mattress could be the perfect choice. 

Let’s break down the differences between standard, split, and California king mattresses so you can find the best king size mattress for your bedroom. Check out our complete guide to mattress sizes and dimensions for a more high-level mattress size guide.

King Mattress: Roomy and Comfortable

A king mattress is one of the largest mattress sizes available and offers plenty of space for couples or anyone who enjoys a roomy sleeping surface. Measuring 76 inches wide and 80 inches long, a king-sized mattress provides plenty of room to stretch out without disturbing your sleeping partner.

Who It’s For:

• Couples who want maximum sleeping space.

• Families sharing the bed with kids or pets.

• People with spacious master bedrooms.

Top Features:

• Generous Width: 76 inches wide for plenty of elbow room.

• Standard Length: 80 inches long, perfect for most adults.

• Variety of Styles: Available in memory foam, hybrid, and innerspring models.

• Wide Availability: A popular size, making it easy to find accessories like sheets and bed frames.

Split King Mattress: Personalized Comfort

A split king mattress is essentially two twin XL mattresses placed side by side, allowing each sleeper to customize their side. This option is perfect for couples with different firmness preferences or those using an adjustable base.

Who It’s For:

• Couples with different firmness preferences.

• People with sleep apnea or back pain who use adjustable bases.

• Homes with tight hallways or doorways for easier transport.

Top Features:

• Customizable Sides: Each side can have a different firmness level or adjustable setting.

• Adjustable Base Compatibility: Perfect for personalized sleep positions.

• Easy Setup: Two twin XL mattresses make it easier to move and handle.

• Motion Isolation: Reduces disturbances from a partner’s movement.

California King Mattress: Long and Narrow

The California king mattress is designed for taller sleepers or narrower rooms. Measuring 72 inches wide by 84 inches long, this option sacrifices a bit of width in exchange for added length.

Who It’s For:

• Taller individuals over six feet who need more legroom.

• People with long, narrow bedrooms.

• Anyone looking for a sleek, modern bed design.

Top Features:

• Extra Length: 84 inches long, providing additional space for tall sleepers.

• Narrower Width: 72 inches wide, ideal for tighter spaces.

• Luxurious Look: Sleek proportions for a contemporary style.

• Ample Support Options: Available in premium materials like latex and hybrid designs.

Split California King Mattress: Ultimate Luxury for Couples

The split California king mattress takes the benefits of a California king and combines them with the flexibility of a split mattress. Like the split king, it consists of two separate mattresses placed side by side, but in this case, each half is narrower and longer, matching the unique dimensions of a California king.

Who It’s For:

• Taller couples who want the extra legroom of a California king.

• Couples with differing sleep preferences and a need for an adjustable base.

• Homeowners with spacious master bedrooms and a preference for luxurious sleep setups.

Top Features:

• Customizable Comfort: Each side can have a different firmness or adjustable position, ideal for personalized sleep.

• Extra Legroom: The California king’s length (84 inches) ensures ample space for taller sleepers.

• Motion Isolation: The split design minimizes disturbances from your partner’s movements.

• Adjustable Base Compatibility: Perfect for couples who enjoy sitting up, reclining, or finding the ideal sleep angle.

• Easier Setup: Two separate mattresses make transportation and assembly simpler, especially in tight spaces.

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King Mattress Size Comparison Guide

How to Choose the Right King-Sized Mattress

When shopping for the best king size mattress, consider the following factors:

1. Room Size: Make sure your bedroom can comfortably fit the mattress with at least two feet of walking space around it.

2. Sleeping Habits: If you share your bed with a partner, kids, or pets, a standard king or split king might be ideal.

3. Height: Taller sleepers may prefer the California king for added length.

4. Comfort Needs: Look for mattresses with features like pressure relief, motion isolation, and temperature regulation.

Explore King Mattresses at Standard TV & Appliance

Ready to find your perfect king mattress? At Standard TV & Appliance, you’ll discover a wide selection of mattresses, including standard, split, and California king options. Visit one of our mattress store locations in Portland, Beaverton, Bend, and Wilsonville Oregon, or contact us. We offer mattresses from top brands, like Sealy, Stearns & Foster, and Tempur-Pedic. We’ll help you find the perfect mattress that will help you sleep better and wake up feeling more refreshed.

Related readings from our blog:

• Why Adjustable Bases Are Worth The Investment

• The Mattress Makeover: How To Refresh Your Bedding

• How To Choose The Right Mattress For Side Sleepers

FAQs: Your Questions About King Mattresses Answered

1. What is king size vs. California King?
A standard king mattress is wider (76 inches) and shorter (80 inches), while a California king is narrower (72 inches) and longer (84 inches).

2. Why is Queen size bigger than King?
A queen mattress isn’t bigger than a king. It’s smaller, measuring 60 inches wide by 80 inches long.

3. What size room is needed for a king bed?
You’ll need a room at least 12 feet by 12 feet to comfortably fit a king mattress and leave space for furniture and movement.

4. What is a 60 by 80 mattress?
A 60 by 80 mattress is a queen size, ideal for smaller master bedrooms or guest rooms.

5. When should I buy a king-size bed?
Buy a king bed if you have a spacious bedroom, share your bed with a partner, kids, or pets, or simply enjoy extra sleeping space.