King vs. Split King: What’s the Difference?

King size mattresses are the best options for couples offering plenty of space to stretch out. Choosing a split king bed enhances comfort and support by fulfilling individual sleep preferences. In our article, we review the similarities and differences between the two so you can choose the best mattress based on your needs.

What’s a King Size Mattress?

A king size mattress, or eastern king bed, measures 76 inches by 80 inches—the largest standard size. King size beds are best for couples, providing 38 inches of personal space. A king bed is the equivalent of two twin XL mattresses placed side by side.

Pricing

King size mattresses range between $700 to over $4000 in price, depending on special features and materials contained inside the bed.

Recommended Room Space

Because king mattresses are so large, they fit comfortably in master bedrooms, measuring at least 12 feet by 12 feet with walking space and room for furniture.

Pros

• Perfect for couples
• More personal space
• Fits in master bedrooms

Cons

• Expensive
• Heavy, hard to move

What’s a Split King Size Mattress?

A split king mattress is the same size as a traditional king at 76 inches by 80 inches, except a split king is divided down the middle, forming two separate mattresses. Split mattresses provide personalized comfort and support to each side of the bed, with no need to compromise on sleeping preferences—couples may achieve better sleep with a split bed than with a standard king.

Split beds are also perfect for adjustable bed frames, as they allow each sleeper to adjust their side of the mattress independently.

Benefits of an Adjustable Base

An adjustable base elevates the head and legs through a remote or phone app—some models allow you to preset specific positions for better comfort. Adjustable beds are a luxury bed frame option that some customers find is worth the cost.

Split king adjustable beds fulfill an individual’s sleep needs without waking your sleep partner, they provide better motion isolation and allow sleepers their own “side of the bed.” Other features included in an adjustable base are USB charging ports, underbed lighting, massage, and alarm.

Adjustable beds are available in any bed size, not just king, but keep in mind they don’t work with box springs or mattress foundations—you’ll end up damaging the foundation and possibly the adjustable base.

Pricing

The price for a split king mattress varies—some customers purchase separate twin XL mattresses, while others go for the split king option.

Split king mattresses range between $700 to $4000, while twin XL beds range between $300 to $2000. It’s more cost-effective to choose the split king option, because of the reduced cost compared to buying two separate twin XL size beds.

The price will also depend on included sleep technologies and the number of layers.

Recommended Room Space

Split king mattresses fit best in 12 feet by 12 feet bedrooms, leaving room for the bed frame, additional furniture, and walking space.

Pros

• Easier to transport
• Customized comfort and support
• Better sleep

Cons

• Expensive
• Difficulty finding split king sheets

Other Mattress Sizes

If a king or split king isn’t within reach right now, other mattress sizes, like twin, twin XL, queen, and California king, might be better options.

Twin Mattress

Twin size mattresses measure 38 inches by 75 inches—perfect for a single sleeper. Their small size makes twin beds budget-friendly and easier to move. Twin mattresses are best for kids and adults with limited living space (i.e., studio apartments).

Twin XL Mattress

Twin XL size mattresses are 5 inches longer than the standard twin, giving more legroom for tall people. Twin XL mattresses are standard in college dorm rooms and great for children.

Queen Mattress

Queen size mattresses measure 60 inches by 80 inches and are the most popular size among single adults. The extra room provides more sleep space and is even a good choice for couples. Some choose to use queen beds in their guest rooms because they’re large enough to accommodate two sleepers.

California King Mattress

California king size mattresses share the same area as standard king beds, except they’re longer and narrower at 72 inches by 84 inches. California king beds are an excellent choice for taller couples and are also available as a split option.

Other Things to Consider

Is a king size bed the same as two twins?

No, two twins mattresses do not equal a king or any other size. A king size bed is actually the same as two twin XL mattresses placed side by side.

Some have also wondered if single size mattresses equal a king size bed. Since single is just another name for a standard twin size, the answer is no.

What kind of bed sheets do you put on a split king bed?

The best bed sheets to accommodate a split king bed is two twin XL fitted sheets with a king size flat sheet and comforter on top. Split king sheet sets are available, but if not, check to see if a twin XL and king size are. We recommend washing your sheets weekly.

Is a split king bigger than a California king?

Spit kings have the same dimensions as standard king mattresses, where California kings are four inches longer and four inches narrower. While California king mattresses are often viewed as bigger than a standard king, they offer a sleeper the same amount of space. California kings are better suited for taller sleepers who need more legroom.

How do you keep a split king bed together?

Bases with non-skid surfaces or side panels should prevent your two twin XL mattresses from moving apart. For extra security, you can buy a bed strap with fasteners on each end. Simply attach one end to a mattress’s underside and run it across the bed’s width to the edge of the other mattress.

Is a split king adjustable bed worth it?

It’s hard to deny that a split king is one of the more costly adjustable bed frames. However, many customers find the price fair once they realize how much it lets them customize their side of the bed. Depending on the model and features, one partner can sit up and read in bed while the other enjoys a relaxing massage.

Conclusion

Choosing a new mattress can be difficult, but choosing the right mattress size based on available bedroom space can help you take that first step towards finding your next bed. Both king and split king mattresses are excellent choices for couples—a split king may be better for couples with differing sleep preferences.