King vs Queen Size Mattresses: What’s the Difference?

Mattress selection takes center stage when it comes to bedroom decor and personal comfort. I'll go over queen and king size mattresses to help you make an informed decision.

1. What is a king size mattress?

A king size mattress (King Size) occupies an important place in mattress sizes and is designed to accommodate those who need more space while sleeping. The standard size of a king size mattress is 76 inches (about 193 centimeters) wide and 80 inches (about 203 centimeters) long, which is basically the width of two single mattresses placed side by side.

This type of mattress was originally designed to provide more space and comfort so that the sleeper has more room to turn over or move around during sleep, which is especially important for those who move around a lot during the night or have special sleep needs (such as the need for extra pillows or sleep aids). In practice, a king size mattress can usually accommodate two adults and a child with plenty of personal space for each.

The size of a king size mattress is not fixed, but varies by make, model and country. For example, king size mattresses in Europe are usually smaller than the standard size in the United States. When choosing a king size mattress, consumers need to take into account their actual needs and the amount of space in their bedroom in order to choose the most appropriate mattress.

It is important to note that while king size mattresses offer spaciousness for sleepers, this also means that a larger bedroom space is needed to accommodate this type of mattress. Therefore, if you have limited space in your bedroom, you may need to consider choosing a different size mattress.

2. What is a queen size mattress?

Queen Size is a widely used mattress size that is standardized at 60 inches wide and 80 inches long. This mattress size falls in between a double mattress and a king size mattress, and can be used for both comfortable sleeping for a single person and for two people, especially if space is limited.

While the width of a queen size mattress is reduced by 16 inches compared to a king size mattress, for many people, 60 inches of width is still enough to provide plenty of room to move around, making it easy to roll over or adjust your position during sleep. This allows a queen-sized mattress to maintain a good amount of personal space even when used by two people, reducing the likelihood that the quality of sleep will be compromised during the night by interfering with each other.

At the same time, the 80-inch length is long enough to accommodate most people's height needs, avoiding awkward situations where feet dangle or bodies extend beyond the edge of the bed. Whether for single or double use, this mattress length ensures that the sleeper's entire body is fully supported.

In addition, queen size mattresses are popular in the market because of their moderate size, which does not appear too narrow like a double mattress nor take up too much space like a king size mattress. It is the preferred mattress size for many homes, hotels and even home-based inns.

Lastly, we should also mention that the choice of a queen size mattress also needs to take into account the size of the bed frame, sheets and bedspread. When purchasing, you need to make sure that these accessories fit the size of the queen size mattress to ensure overall comfort and aesthetics.

Queen size mattresses have become a popular choice for many people in mattress selection due to their modest size and wide range of adaptability. Whether you are single or have a partner, and regardless of the size of your bedroom space, a queen size mattress will provide you with a spacious and comfortable sleeping environment.

3. Other mattress sizes

Choosing the right mattress size is a pretty important decision. Queen and king size mattresses are probably the most common, but there are indeed a number of other sizes, and these may become more suitable depending on your specific needs.

3.1 Double mattresses

Twin mattresses usually measure 54 inches wide by 75 inches long. This size is a bit smaller than a queen size mattress and is more suitable for a single person, especially if you have limited space. If you have less space in your bedroom, or if you're someone who likes to have some room to move around while you sleep, a double mattress may be a good choice.

3.2 Single mattresses

A single mattress, which usually measures 39 inches wide by 75 inches long, is an ideal choice, especially for a children's room or guest room. This size of mattress provides plenty of room for a single person while taking up relatively little bedroom space.

3.3 California King Size Mattress

Another unique mattress size, the California king size mattress is 72 inches wide and 84 inches long, which is longer but slightly narrower than a regular king size mattress. If you or your partner is taller or prefers more foot room, a California king size mattress may be a good choice.

3.4 Extended Single Mattress

Extended single mattresses, also known as extra-long single mattresses, are usually 39 inches wide and 80 inches long. This size mattress is longer than a regular single mattress and is often used in college dorm rooms or narrow, long bedrooms. This size mattress is also suitable for taller individuals.

Overall, choosing the right mattress size depends on your individual needs, including your sleeping habits, the size of your bedroom, and your budget. Understanding the sizes and features of various mattresses can help you make a better choice.

(Please refer to the Mattress Size Guide)

4. Other factors to consider

Choosing a mattress is not only about size, but also about other factors, such as the size of your space, your usage needs, and your budget.

4.1 How much larger is a king size mattress than a queen size mattress?

While both queen and king size mattresses are 80 inches in length, king size mattresses are 76 inches wide while queen size mattresses are 60 inches wide. This means that a king size mattress is 16 inches wider than a queen size mattress, providing more room for sleepers to move around. Especially for those who like to move around or turn over, or for families with children who jump into bed frequently, a king size mattress may be a better choice.

4.2 What size bed do most couples choose?

Based on my experience and survey data, most couples choose a queen size mattress. This is because a queen size mattress provides enough room for two people while taking up relatively little bedroom space. However, if there is enough space in the bedroom, if you are on a budget, or if you need more sleeping space, a king size mattress can be an excellent choice.

4.3 What are the most popular mattress sizes?

According to market data, queen size mattresses are by far the most popular mattress size. The width and length of a king size mattress can meet the needs of most people, and it provides a comfortable sleeping space without taking up too much bedroom space, making it an ideal choice for many people.

4.4 Is a king size mattress equal to two single mattresses?

This is a common misconception. A king size mattress measures 76 inches by 80 inches, and while its width is equal to the width of two twin mattresses combined (each twin mattress is 38 inches wide), its length is longer than that of a twin mattress (usually 75 inches). Therefore, two twin mattresses are not exactly equivalent to one king size mattress.

4.5 Will a king size mattress fit in a 10 x 12 foot room?

The dimensions of a king size mattress are 76 inches x 80 inches, which translates to feet is 6.3 feet x 6.7 feet. This means that a king size mattress could theoretically fit in a 10 ft x 12 ft room. However, you will need to consider leaving enough space around the bed for getting in and out of bed, as well as for placing nightstands, walking, etc. If the length and width of the room is 10 feet x 12 feet, it may seem cramped. If you have limited space in your bedroom, you may need to consider choosing a queen size mattress.

Overall, it is important to consider not only your comfort and space needs, but also your lifestyle and personal preferences when choosing a mattress size. Hopefully, the information above will help you make a better decision.

Read More:

Mattress Types

Mattress Buying Guide

Best Sleeping Position

FAQ

Q: What's the difference in width between a king and queen size mattress?

A: A king size mattress is 76 inches wide, while a queen size mattress is 60 inches wide. So, the difference in width is 16 inches.

Q: Can a king size mattress fit on a queen size bed frame?

A: No, a king size mattress will not fit on a queen size bed frame because the king mattress is larger. The bed frame and mattress need to be the same size for proper use.

Q: Is a king size mattress equivalent to two twin beds?

A: While two twin beds put together approximately equal the width of a king size bed, the length of twin beds is usually shorter than a king size bed.

Q: What size bed do most couples prefer?

A: Most couples prefer a queen size bed because it provides ample space for two people without taking up too much room. However, if space and budget allow, a king size bed can provide maximum comfort.

Q: Is there a mattress size that's larger than a queen but smaller than a king?

A: Yes, it's called a California king size mattress. It's narrower but longer than a standard king size mattress, making it a good choice for taller individuals or those with narrower bedrooms.