Mattresses come in seven sizes, but most adults only decide between two: queen vs. king. If you're ready to buy a new mattress, now is a great time to consider whether your current mattress size still fits your needs. A different size could give you more room to stretch out, make better use of your bedroom space or simply help you sleep more comfortably.
If you are wondering how to choose between a queen vs. a king mattress, we have the information you need to make the choice easier. While queen sized mattresses are quite popular, we regularly see people upgrade to a king-size mattress when it's time for a new bed. Since both sizes offer plenty of comfort for couples and single sleepers, it’s worth comparing the two before deciding which one is right for you.
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Queen vs. King Mattress Dimensions
Before we go any further, let’s discuss exactly how a queen mattress differs from a king. Both mattresses are 80 inches long, but a king-size mattress is 16 inches wider than a queen-size mattress. That’s over a full foot of extra mattress space! And for those contemplating a full mattress, the difference between a queen and a full might not be what you think!
Key Differences Between Queen and King Mattresses
Here are the main differences between queen vs. king mattresses that you need to know about:
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Queen mattresses measure 60 by 80 inches.
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King mattresses measure 76 by 80 inches.
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King mattresses are 16 inches wider.
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Queen mattresses take up less space.
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King mattresses offer more sleeping room.
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Queen mattresses are generally more affordable.
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King mattresses are heavier and harder to move.
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King mattresses work well for couples with pets or kids who like to snooze with their people.
Who Should Choose a Queen Mattress?
When your goal is to save money and reduce the amount of floor space your bed takes up, a queen mattress is a great choice. You'll have much more flexibility as you're arranging nightstands and other bedroom furniture.
1. Single sleepers
For those who sleep solo, it isn’t necessary to upgrade to a king to have plenty of space. Queen mattresses are both lighter and generally cost less than kings, so there’s no need to pay more when you’re already getting all 60 inches to yourself.
2. Couples with no pets or kids
For many couples, 60 inches total, or 30 inches apiece, provides plenty of room to sleep comfortably. This is especially true when you don’t have pets or kids climbing into bed and taking up valuable sleeping space.
Who Should Choose a King Mattress?
When you want maximum sleeping space, a king mattress is hard to beat, but you must make sure your bedroom is big enough to accommodate its larger footprint. You'll also want to plan for higher up-front costs since king mattresses, bed frames, sheets and other bedding typically cost more.
1. Anyone who loves to stretch out
King-size mattresses are a popular option among couples who don’t like to be wrapped around each other when they sleep. They provide 38 inches of personal space for each sleeper, which is over 3 feet. The fact that they’re super spacious is one of the most commonly cited reasons for buying a king-size bed. If your goal is to truly sleep like a king, no other size will do. Learn more about choosing a king-size mattress here. For those looking for something even larger, consider a California king.
2. Someone sleeping with a pet
You may love sleeping with your pet, but you probably don’t love losing valuable space to a dog or cat that likes to stretch out. A king mattress gives everyone more room to move around and get comfortable without feeling crowded. This makes it a great choice for both couples and solo sleepers who regularly share their bed with a pet.
3. Families who co-sleep
Many parents like co-sleeping because it keeps their children close, makes nighttime care and breastfeeding more convenient, and offers a sense of togetherness and attachment. Of course, being kicked by a toddler all night long isn’t exactly fostering extra love. That’s why families who plan on co-sleeping long-term often choose a king bed.
4. Couples who want fewer sleep disruptions
A king mattress gives couples more room to sleep independently, which can help minimize disruptions when one person changes positions or gets in and out of bed. Pair the extra space with a mattress designed for strong motion isolation, and you’re less likely to feel your partner’s movements throughout the night.
Find the Right Mattress Size for Your Space
We hope this king-size vs. queen-size mattress breakdown made it easier for you to see which option is a better fit. There’s no wrong answer; it’s all about your personal preferences. If you need further help deciding which new mattress is right for you, come into City Mattress and let our Sleep Experts guide you!