King vs. Queen Bed: Mattress Dimensions Guide - 2021

A king bed is the largest bed available on the general marketplace. There are three types of king-size beds: 1. __Standard king__: A standard king-size mattress measures 76 inches wide by 80 inches long. 2. __California king__: A California king mattress measures 72 inches wide by 84 inches long. 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](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/sleep-hygiene-tips). 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. __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. __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. __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. __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. Saw some of the best darn logs of your life with a [MasterClass Annual Membership](https://www.masterclass.com) and exclusive instructional videos from Dr. Matthew Walker, the author of *Why We Sleep* and the founder-director of the Center for Human Sleep Science at the University of California, Berkeley. Between Matthew’s tips for optimal snoozing and info on discovering your body’s ideal rhythms, you’ll be sleeping more deeply in no time. If you’re looking to upsize your bed, you might be considering a king- or a queen-size mattress. Learn more about the size, surface area, and sleep benefits of king and queen mattresses.