Determining which mattress size is right for you is often the first decision when choosing a new bed. If you share your bed with a partner, pets, or children, you may find yourself asking if you should get a queen or king mattress.
We’ll look at the pros, cons, and specifics of queen and king beds to help you determine which best fits your needs.
Queen vs. King at a Glance
Mattress Size | Mattress Dimensions |
|---|---|
Queen | 60″ x 80″ |
King | 76″ x 80″ |
What's the Difference Between a Queen vs. King Mattress?
While the most important difference between queen and king mattresses is their size, there are other factors to consider, such as price. In general, the bigger the bed, the larger the cost.
Dimensions
Both queen and king mattresses are 80 inches long, but they differ in width. Queen mattresses are 60 inches wide, while king mattresses are 76 inches wide. This means a king mattress will give you more than a foot of extra wiggle room.
For comparison, a twin bed, which is designed for one sleeper, is 38 inches wide. Two twin beds pushed together equal the same width as a king bed. A full size mattress is 54 inches wide. Both twin and full mattresses are 75 inches long.
Pricing
Because they are larger, queen and king mattresses generally cost more than smaller sizes. Along with size, the final price tag will reflect the type and quality of materials the mattress is made from, the brand, and any shipping costs.
Who Should Sleep on a Queen or King Mattress?
The right mattress size depends on the sleeper’s needs and personal preferences. Taller sleepers may prefer a larger bed in order to sprawl out during the night. Those with large bedrooms may like the look of a king size bed in their space, while a king may not fit in a smaller room.
Single Adults
Most single adults will have enough sleeping space on a queen mattress. However, those who share their bed with a pet or child may be happier with a roomier king size bed.
Couples
A queen mattress offers 30 inches of sleeping width per adult, while a king allows 38 inches. Depending on body sizes, the extra space of a king bed may be preferable.
Split queens or split kings — which feature two mattresses placed side by side — are a good option for couples who would like to co-sleep but have different needs in their mattress’ firmness and feel.
Anyone Shorter Than 6 Feet, 7 Inches
Queen and king size mattresses are both 80 inches long, so anyone shorter than 6 feet, 7 inches will fit on either size. Those taller than 6-foot-7 might want to consider a California king bed, which provides an extra 4 inches of length.
People Living in Larger Spaces
It is important to measure the available area in the room where the bed will be placed. A small bedroom or a studio apartment may not be able to accommodate a king bed. When calculating space, remember to consider nightstands and other bedroom furniture.
Shop the Best Mattresses of 2024
Which Mattress Size Should You Choose?
The mattress size you choose will ultimately come down to the amount of space you have in your bedroom, whether you are a single sleeper or a co-sleeper, how much sleeping space you require to be comfortable, and how much it costs.
Queen vs. King Mattresses
Queen
Pros
- Offers a generous sleep area for single adults
- Can be a comfortable option for couples sharing a small space
Cons
- Might be a tight fit for couples who co-sleep with pets or children
- Not enough legroom for people over 6 feet, 7 inches tall
King
Pros
- Plenty of room for those who co-sleep or like lots of space to stretch out
- A good option for people with a large bedroom
Cons
- Larger bed size may hinder use of other furniture in a small room
- King beds are more expensive than queens and smaller sizes
About The Author
Certified Sleep Science Coach, Director of Product Testing
David is a Certified Sleep Science Coach with a lifelong passion for well-being and health optimization. His interest in sleep developed with the arrival of his son, when sleep suddenly became a precious commodity.
- POSITION: Side sleeper
- TEMPERATURE: Hot Sleeper
- CHRONOTYPE: Lion
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