King vs. Queen: What’s the Difference?

King and queen size mattresses are excellent options for any master bedroom. These larger beds provide enough space to accommodate two sleepers. To choose the right size, look at the mattress dimensions and available room space before deciding between a king or queen size mattress.

In our article, we outline the differences between a king and a queen mattress and provide pros and cons behind each mattress size to help you find the best mattress.

What’s a King Size Mattress?

King size mattresses, or eastern king beds, measure 76 inches by 80 inches. King mattresses are the largest standard size available and perfect for couples, providing 38 inches of personal space. King beds are also available as a split king option.

Split king mattresses are the equivalent of two twin XL beds placed side by side. Each mattress offers customized comfort and support on each side of the bed—couples won’t have to compromise on comfort with a split king.

Pricing

Standard king size mattresses come at a higher price tag, depending on materials and special features. Customers can expect to pay between $700 to $4000 for a king bed.

Recommended Room Space

King mattresses fit best in large master bedrooms, measuring 12 feet by 12 feet—room for the bed, furniture, and plenty of walking space.

Pros

• Spacious room
• Best mattress for couples
• Split king option

Cons

• Expensive
• Too large for some bedrooms

King mattresses can be unrealistically spendy, even if you need the extra space at night, but that’s why we suggest the Vaya Mattress. While most king beds cost over $1000, you can score a king size Vaya Mattress for less than $800.

The Vaya Mattress contains two foam layers: 3 inches of Vaya Comfort Foam and 9 inches of Vaya Base Foam. Together, the two layers create a bed that is both cushiony yet supportive. Vaya Comfort Foam is buoyant and flexible so you don’t sink into bed and feel uncomfortable while you sleep. Vaya Base Foam helps with spinal alignment but also protects your mattress against sags, lumps, and soft spots.

Despite the low price, Vaya still ensures their beds are made in the USA and CertiPUR-US® certified—or free of harmful chemicals. It comes with a 100-night sleep trial and a 10-year warranty.

What’s a Queen Size Mattress?

Queen size mattresses are 60 inches by 80 inches and are most popular among single sleepers. Queen mattresses provide extra space for single sleepers—both width and length.

Queen beds are also a good option for couples with a tight budget or limited space. If you’re looking for the best mattresses under $1000, you have a wider range of queen beds to consider than king mattresses.

Some couples may find the standard queen too small, with only 30 inches of personal space instead of 38 inches from the standard king. Queen beds are also ideal mattresses for guest rooms.

Though not as common, split queen options are available, offering couples personalized comfort and support for a better night’s sleep.

Pricing

Though not as expensive as a king, queen size mattresses can be pricey, depending on included sleep technologies and material type. The cost for a standard queen mattress ranges between $500 to $3000.

Recommended Room Space

Queen size mattresses fit best in smaller master bedrooms, measuring at least 10 feet by 10 feet. Adding furniture will still leave walking space.

Pros

• Perfect for single adults
• Good for some couples
• More space to stretch out
• Great for small master bedrooms

Cons

• Too large for smaller bedrooms
• Too small for some couples

The Amerisleep AS3 is a best-selling mattress, with its queen size being popular amongst couples. It has an excellent balance of cushioning and support suited for combination sleepers and side sleepers. 

The AS3 is made up of 3 inches of Bio-Pur®, 2 inches of Affinity foam with HIVE®, and 7 inches of Bio-Core®. Amerisleep uses a knit polyester for the AS3’s cover since it’s both soft and moisture resistant.

Bio-Pur® is Amerisleep’s plant-based memory foam. Most memory foam is made with petroleum, but Bio-Pur® mostly contains castor oil for healthier, cleaner sleep. Amerisleep also utilizes zoned support inside the AS3 for the best pressure relief and support. 

While the standard model AS3 features a foam base, you have the option to upgrade to the AS3 Hybrid. This model contains a pocketed coil support system for next-level responsiveness and superb breathability. Both beds are great and choosing between the two really comes down to whether you want a more stiff or springy feel.

The AS3 includes a 100-night trial and a 20-year warranty.

Other Mattress Sizes

If a king or queen size mattress is too big for your bedroom or not what you’re looking for, other mattress sizes, like twin, twin XL, full, and California king are available.

Twin Mattress

Twin size mattresses are 38 inches by 75 inches—the smallest mattress size available. Twin beds are easy to move and are some of the best mattresses for kids. For families with more than one child, investing in bunk bed frames is a good idea to save on space, giving kids more room to play.

Twin XL Mattress

Twin XL size mattresses are the same size as a twin, except 5 inches extra long, measuring at 38 inches by 80 inches. Twin XL beds are commonly found in college dorm rooms and are excellent options for taller individuals.

Full Mattress

Full size mattresses are 56 inches by 75 inches, and perfect for teenagers and single adults. Full size beds have 18 inches extra width—more space to stretch out. Full beds are also good options for small bedrooms, depending on the room size.

California King Mattress

California king size, or western king, mattresses measure 72 inches by 84 inches. Cal king beds have the same area as king mattresses, except they’re longer and narrower, perfect for taller couples looking for extra legroom to stretch out.

Other Things to Consider

How much bigger is king size bed than a queen?

King size mattresses are 16 inches wider than queen size beds, better for couples, and giving more room to stretch out. Queen size beds measure 60 inches by 80 inches and are best for single adults. Couples can fit in a queen bed, but some may find it too small.

What size bed do most couples have?

Most couples prefer the spacious feel of a king size mattress. Measuring 76 inches by 80 inches, a king size bed provides each person 38 inches of personal space. King beds also come in split options, perfect for customized comfort and support, and adjustable bases.

What is the most popular bed size?

Queen size mattresses are the most popular bed size today. Single adults living on their own prefer the luxury space a queen bed provides, while some couples who like to sleep close or who are on a tight budget choose a queen size. A queen mattress can also fit in a room that’s at least 10 feet by 10 feet, while king size mattresses need a bedroom that’s at least 12 feet by 12 feet.

Is a king bed equal to two twins?

No, if you push two twin beds together they would be just a few inches short of a king mattress. It’s two twin XL mattresses that can make up a king size mattress. This is known as a split king and lets couples with differing firmness preferences share a bed without compromising on comfort.

Can a king bed fit in a 10 x 12 room?

Technically yes it should, since each side of a king mattress is under 7 feet. However, you might not have enough space for a nightstand on each side of the mattress, or other bedroom furniture. It also depends on the king size frame, which may add 2 to 5 inches to the mattress’s length and width.

Generally, we recommend king size mattresses for rooms that are at least 12 feet by 12 feet.

Conclusion

While a king size mattress is an excellent choice for larger master bedrooms, queen size beds may fit better in smaller bedrooms, about 10 feet by 10 feet. The mattress you choose should not only fit in your bedroom but also leave enough room for additional furniture and walking space.