What Is a Split King Bed? Take the Stress out of Sharing a Bed

What’s a Split King Mattress?

A split king mattress is actually two mattresses that sit side-by-side and, together, take up the space of a king size mattress. In total, a split king mattress setup measures 76 inches wide by 80 inches long, which is identical to a standard king bed. Each individual mattress in the split king setup is the same size as a twin XL mattress, which measures 38 inches wide by 80 inches long.

Both mattresses in a split king sit together on the same bed frame or platform, and they are meant to be used together, like they’re one bed. Having two separate mattresses together can provide advantages to couples that one mattress cannot. For example, movement will not travel as much from one mattress to another, and each individual mattress can be its own firmness level.

How Much Does a Split King Bed Cost?

Most split king mattresses range in price from $1,000 to $4,000. Split kings cost more than smaller mattresses because they use more materials. Like mattresses in other sizes, the cost of a split king is largely determined by its construction and the materials it’s made of. Generally, all-foam beds are the least expensive, while hybrids cost more, and those containing natural latex or special technology cost the most.

The brand of a split king can also influence its price. Brands that offer free shipping, free setup, a generous sleep trial, or extended warranties may have higher-priced mattresses to cover those services.

Choosing the Right Bedding for a Split King Bed

Many bedding companies offer sheet sets in split king sizes. A split king sheet set usually contains two twin XL size fitted sheets and one king size top sheet, along with pillow cases. The fitted sheets allow the individual mattresses to be protected all around and move independently as needed, while the top sheet can be shared by sleepers.

For the rest of the bedding, you can buy king size options, since split king beds are the same size as standard kings. Most people make a split king bed the same way they would a standard king, with a king size comforter or quilt on top. That being said, if you prefer not to share bedding with your bed partner, you can also go for smaller bedding to use separately. 

Split king beds can be placed on standard king bed frames or other types of foundations in standard king size. There are also special adjustable beds intended for split kings that allow each side of the bed to be elevated independently. 

When a split king is lying flat, you shouldn’t be able to feel the crack between beds. But if you do feel a dip, you may want to consider a king size mattress topper, which would cover the crack.

Benefits of a Split King Bed

Split king beds usually provide the most benefit to couples who share a bed. Bed partners who are of different body weights or who prefer different mattress firmnesses may enjoy a split king the most. These couples can buy a split king in two firmness levels, so each bed partner has the ideal level of support for them on their side of the bed, and no one has to compromise on what works best for their body.

Another advantage of a split king is the reduction in motion transfer. Since the bed is technically made up of two separate mattresses, motion doesn’t transfer across the surface of the bed and cause a disturbance when one bed partner rolls over or gets up. That said, since the beds are pushed together and on the same frame or platform, one person’s movement may still be felt by the other if the beds bump or the frame sways, but it won’t be as bad as if you were sharing a bed.

A split king bed is ideal for couples that want to use an adjustable bed frame, but not have both sides of the bed adjusted to the same level or at the same time. With a split-king-specific adjustable bed frame, one bed partner can lie flat while the other elevates their upper body, and vice versa. This could be a good solution for couples who still want to share a bed even though one bed partner needs an adjustable mattress for health reasons.

Split king beds are often sold for the same price as a standard king, or for a price that is similar. That means the benefits of a split king don’t usually cost shoppers much more than they would’ve already been spending. Split kings can also be easier to set up, move, or store, since they are made up of two smaller parts that weigh less and take up less space than a king mattress.

Should You Buy a Split King Bed?

A split king bed is a good option for you if: you share a bed with a partner, you want a king size mattress, and you struggle to share a bed for some reason. 

A split king can help if you wake up easily when your partner moves, you need different firmness levels for each sleeper, or you want the ability to adjust each side of the bed independently using an adjustable bed frame. A split king is also useful if you want a king size bed but you cannot fit a king size mattress through your doorway.

Here are more pros and cons of a split king mattress:

Still have questions?

Our product experts have extensive experience testing just about every sleep product on the market. Send an email to [email protected] with your questions and we’ll help you find exactly what you’re looking for.