Best Split King Mattress

The split king is a simple solution to age-old problems that often arise when sharing a bed. This style gives each partner their own sleeping area by placing two separate mattresses next to each other, which can be invaluable for couples. Sleepers who change positions throughout the night don’t have to worry about motion transfer disturbing their partners. What’s more, couples with different firmness preferences each select a surface that meets their needs.

We’ll review our picks for the best split king mattresses on the market, examining their materials, performance, and value. Additionally, we’ll cover what to look for when shopping for a split king to help you make an informed decision between models.

Want to learn more about our top mattress picks? Visit our guide to the best overall mattresses of 2024 for details about our strongest performers. You can also check out our list of the best mattresses for side sleepers and other guides based on your specific needs.

Dive Deeper – In-Depth Mattress Guides

If you’re still not sure if a split king mattress is right for you and your partner, you can take a look at our other mattress guides broken down by size.

What Is a Split King Mattress?

A split king mattress is exactly as it sounds: a king mattress that is split down the middle to form two separate mattresses. When put together, the dimensions are approximately 76 inches by 80 inches, which is the same as a traditional king. Apart, each mattress is a twin XL: 38 inches by 80 inches. We’ll examine the pros and cons of split king mattresses as well as discuss who might prefer this option.

Why Would You Need a Split King?

Split king mattresses are most often used by couples. Partners don’t always have the same sleeping needs. Body size, position, and personal preference affect what feels comfortable. A split king allows each partner to choose their own distinct sleep surface while still sharing a bed.

Differing Firmness Needs

Body weight and sleeping position are two of the biggest factors when choosing an appropriate firmness level. Couples’ needs can vary widely in this regard. For instance, a stomach sleeper over 230 pounds is likely to need a much firmer mattress than their partner who weighs under 130 pounds and sleeps on their side.

Motion Isolation

When a person tosses and turns or gets out of bed, vibrations may travel across the mattress surface and disturb their partner. Since a split king is two separate pieces, movement on one side of the bed does not transfer to the other.

For Use on an Adjustable Base

Sleepers may use an adjustable base for a wide variety of reasons, including comfort, mitigating snoring, and preventing acid reflux. Combining an adjustable base with a split king allows each partner to customize the position of their bed.

How to Choose a Split King Mattress

Picking the right split king mattress is much like choosing any other size but with a few additional considerations. If you’re purchasing a mattress to share with your partner, their preferences are also important to consider. You may want to reflect on your available floor space, decide what’s within your budget, and ensure that a split king will work with the bed frame you have in mind.

What to Look For in a Mattress

When mattress shopping, it’s critical to consider your sleep habits. Instead of getting caught by flashy features or marketing jargon, consider whether the basic functions line up with what you need.

Typically, your body weight and sleeping position have the biggest impacts on what you’ll prefer. First, narrow down your choices to models with the right level of support and comfort. Once you know if a mattress will meet your basic needs, then look at its additional features.

Price

Split king mattresses are one of the most expensive sizes, generally carrying higher price tags than traditional or California kings. To save some money, look for mattress deals around federal holidays.

Manufacturers differ in how they list prices. Some provide the cost of both sides together, and others sell them separately as twin XLs. Note how the price is listed before purchasing.

Sleeping Position

Sleeping position is one of the most important considerations when choosing a mattress. Typically, side sleepers enjoy softer mattresses, stomach sleepers prefer firmer, and back sleepers generally fall in the middle. Combination sleepers may want to consider mattresses that perform well across positions for their weight group.

Quality Materials

Not all mattress materials are equivalent, and price-point isn’t always an indicator of quality. Poorly manufactured components may break down more quickly, potentially limiting the mattress’ lifespan. High-quality materials often increase the cost of a mattress, but it may ultimately be more affordable to pay extra upfront rather than regularly replacing lower-quality models.

Firmness Level

Firmness affects comfort. The ideal level depends on your body type, sleep position, and personal preferences. To compare firmness, we rate it on a scale from 1 to 10. Lower numbers indicate a softer surface, while higher numbers are firmer. The majority of sleepers prefer a model between medium (5) and firm (7). Couples often select a different firmness for each side of their split king to more closely match their individual preferences.

Pressure Relief

Many sleepers develop pressure points from resting on the same parts of their bodies for long periods. A mattress that relieves pressure well redistributes weight and provides cushioning beneath pressure-prone body parts.

Motion Isolation

A mattress that isolates motion absorbs vibrations to prevent them from moving across the surface. Motion isolation can be invaluable for sleepers who share a bed. Split king mattresses isolate motion exceptionally well because they consist of two separate pieces.

Temperature Regulation

Body heat can build up while you sleep, and some people are more sensitive to excess warmth. Mattresses that regulate temperatures well often have good airflow, foam infused with cooling technology, or fabric designed to wick away heat and moisture. Innerspring and hybrid mattresses tend to sleep cooler than all-foam models because they trap less heat within their cores.

Edge Support

Edge support can be valuable for individuals who struggle to get into and out of bed and those who need the entire mattress surface. Since each side of a split king mattress is just 38 inches wide, a sturdy perimeter may be especially important. However, edge reinforcement could also affect the feel of the area where the two pieces meet.

Contouring

Some sleepers like the feel of a mattress that contours closely. This cradling can relieve pressure while supporting the spine. However, others find it restricts movement. Consider whether you prefer the feeling of sleeping “on” or “in” a mattress to determine what level of contouring you’d prefer.

Mattress Type

Hybrid, innerspring, foam, latex, and airbed models are all excellent options, though each has potential pros and cons. Airbeds are often ideal for those who want to adjust the firmness of the surface. Sleepers who prefer a traditional feel may opt for an innerspring model. Eco-conscious shoppers frequently like natural latex, and individuals who prioritize conforming often favor all-foam options. Hybrids can be an excellent choice for sleepers looking for a mixture of qualities.

Last Things to Consider with a Split King Mattress

Once you’ve got your eye on a split king mattress, it’s time to consider whether it’s a good fit for your home and lifestyle. We’ll highlight a few additional items to assess before hitting “add to cart.”

Split or Single King Foundation

Sleepers who opt for a split king can use a single-piece king foundation or a split foundation. Single-piece foundations can be heavy and tough to move from room to room. People prioritizing maneuverability may prefer a split foundation. Both sides can be moved independently from one another, but they can be placed side-by-side on a king size bed frame.

Luxury Features on Adjustable Beds

Shoppers often use split king mattresses on adjustable beds. Many adjustable beds come with features that may not be necessary but could be welcome additions. Massage features, temperature controls, and memory settings can all increase the cost. However, they may be worth it for sleepers who want an especially luxurious feel.

Mattress Warranty and Other Policies

Warranty, shipping, and trial policies vary widely between mattress manufacturers. Though many appear generous, there can be limitations or fees hidden in the fine print.

Check to see what a mattress warranty covers and for how long. Even if the mattress has lifetime coverage, examine what defects qualify, whether the policy is prorated, what exclusions apply, and what’s required of the owner.

Though many companies offer free shipping, there are often restrictions or additional charges for orders to P.O. boxes, Hawaii, Alaska, and Canada.

Some sleep trials may truly be risk-free, but others charge restocking, disposal, or transportation fees for returns. Companies also frequently allow just one trial per household, and many require that the unwanted mattress remains in excellent condition. Review all the fine print before committing to a mattress purchase.