Queen vs. King: Which Mattress Size Rules?

The queen mattress dimensions are 60 inches (5 feet) in width by 80 inches (6 feet, 8 inches) in length.

The king mattress dimensions are 76 inches (6 feet, 4 inches) in width by 80 inches (6 feet, 8 inches) in length.

The length of the two sizes is identical at 80 inches. This provides enough legroom for most people, although tall individuals (over 6 feet, 4 inches) may wish to go with the longer California king option.

Both sizes can easily accommodate two people. Most couples will end up choosing either queen or king, as the smaller sizes are generally too cramped for two people. But how do you know which is the better choice for you?

Which Size is Best for You?

Both king and queen sized beds are great options for couples and families. In choosing between the two, here are a few things to keep in mind:

Sleeping Partner(s) – Who do you share your bed with? Most couples will be comfortable sharing a queen mattress, but those who want more space may wish to upgrade to a king. Couples sharing a bed with children and/or pets will want to choose a king to ensure adequate space.

Your Size, Weight and Sleeping Position – The physical size of you and your partner, as well as your preference in sleeping position, will also influence the choice of queen vs king. Physically larger couples may want to spring for a king sized bed. Very tall individuals may wish to choose a California king, which has more legroom than a standard queen or king. And in general, back and stomach sleepers tend to prefer a bit more space around them, compared to side sleepers.

Budget – What is your budget for a new mattress? King beds will always cost at least $100-$300+ more than a queen of the same brand and model. Additionally, bed frames, foundations, bedding, etc. will all be more expensive for the larger king size. If you’re on a tight budget, queen will likely be your best option.

Bedroom Size – How large is the room you plan to place the bed in? It’s helpful to measure before purchasing a new bed, to get a feel for how well each size may fit into the space. We generally recommend leaving around 24 inches of space between the bed and each surrounding wall or piece of furniture. At a full 16 inches wider than a queen, a king size bed can make smaller rooms feel a bit cramped.

Ease of Transport – A king mattress will be significantly more challenging to move around, compared to a queen. A queen bed will fit into truck beds, cargo vans, etc. without much issue, and will also be relatively simple to get up staircases and around tight corners. King mattresses, on the other hand, can pose more challenges for movers. If you’re someone who moves frequently, a queen may be a better choice.