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Written by
Daniel Noyed
Sleepfoundation.org is reader-supported. We may earn a commission through products purchased using links on this page. Learn more about our process here
It’s hard to argue with a king size mattress, which can comfortably fit two sleepers with room to spare. Significantly larger than other mattress sizes, king size mattresses offer the ultimate luxury for those who can spare the floor space. Split king and California king variants offer the opportunity to further customize your sleep setup.
There’s an exciting range of options available for shoppers seeking a new king size mattress. To help you get started with your search, we’ll share our recommendations for the best king mattresses currently on the market. We’ll also provide some practical advice on how to find the right king mattress, whether you’re sleeping with a partner, kids, pets, or by yourself.
Available in four firmness options, the WinkBed provides a supportive sleep surface for all sleeper types with a coil-on-coil design and reinforced lumbar support.
The WinkBed is a luxury hybrid mattress available in four firmness levels: medium soft, medium firm, firm, and Plus. Built with high-quality foams and pocketed coils, all four versions boast above-average durability and temperature control, as well as outstanding edge support.
The medium soft, medium firm, and firm WinkBeds offer some initial pressure relief with a euro-style pillow top quilted with gel polyfoam. The medium soft mattress has an additional layer of polyfoam that helps absorb motion for people who sleep with a partner. In turn, the medium firm and firm WinkBeds have a more responsive feel that boosts movement for sex and for combination sleepers. All the WinkBed mattresses have a breathable Tencel cover.
The WinkBed mattress features a dual-coil system with a layer of pocketed micro-coils and a support core of zoned pocketed coils with reinforced edges. Along with strategically placed foams in the comfort layers, this design helps provide targeted support to the spine and lumbar area in particular. One of the best firm king mattresses for heavier sleepers, the WinkBed Plus is similarly built but replaces the top layer of micro-coils with latex for sturdier support.
WinkBeds offers a 120-night sleep trial and a lifetime warranty against workmanship and manufacturing defects.
The flagship Nectar mattress is crafted with conforming foams that minimize pressure points and motion transfer without breaking the bank.
The Nectar is an attractive option for shoppers who are interested in buying a memory foam mattress at a reasonable price. Multiple layers of gel-infused memory foam sit atop a supportive core, for a medium firm feel that adapts well to most sleeping positions and body types.
All-foam mattresses tend to sleep hot, but the Nectar has a moisture-wicking Tencel cover and a layer of gel-infused memory foam that help reduce heat retention. For nights when the kids crawl into bed, the Nectar’s memory foam layers absorb motion so everyone can sleep as soundly as possible. The mattress also has a relatively firm perimeter that makes it possible to sleep right up to the edge of the bed.
The Nectar mattress holds CertiPUR-US certification, which guarantees it to be low in volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions and free of harmful chemicals. Shoppers in the contiguous U.S. receive free shipping. In addition to being an affordably-priced king size bed, the Nectar mattress also comes with a risk-free 365-night sleep trial and a forever warranty.
Copper-infused memory foam, zoned transitional polyfoam, and pocketed coils cradle sleepers in the flippable Layla Hybrid.
If you’re having trouble deciding on mattress firmness, then the Layla Hybrid might be the solution. This is a flippable hybrid mattress with a different firmness level on either side. You can choose between medium soft or firm, and switch back and forth if you find your needs change over time. Most side sleepers prefer the medium soft side, whereas the firm side provides better lumbar support for back and stomach sleepers.
The Layla Hybrid stands out for its use of copper-infused memory foam. Copper is said to be a good heat conductor, and adding it to the memory foam is meant to help draw body heat away from the mattress surface for a cooler night. Beneath the memory foam is a transitional layer of polyfoam with surface modification technology (SMT), which provides firmer support in key areas.
The Layla Hybrid has a sturdy and breathable support core made of pocketed coils. The perimeter is reinforced with higher-gauge coils. As with most hybrid mattresses, the Layla Hybrid has a resilient feel that facilitates movement on top of the mattress.
The mattress is CertiPUR-US certified and is thoughtfully designed with easy-flip handles and a zippered cover. Customers are granted a 120-night sleep trial, after which the mattress is covered by a 10-year warranty. The Layla Hybrid ships for free to the contiguous U.S., with an extra charge for Hawaii, Alaska, and Canada.
The MemoryLux by WinkBeds is a memory foam mattress designed to sleep cool, available in three firmness levels.
Following the success of its flagship mattress, WinkBeds released an all-foam version called the MemoryLux. Geared toward hot sleepers, this 11-inch mattress has a breathable Tencel cover quilted with gel-infused foam. The quilted cover is followed by a layer of proprietary AirCell memory foam, designed to perform like memory foam without the heat retention.
Beneath the AirCell is a zoned transitional layer with firmer support in the hips and lumbar areas. A high-density polyfoam support core provides a stable base for the mattress.
The MemoryLux is available in three firmness options: soft, medium, and firm. The soft model has a plusher feel that is particularly well-suited to side sleepers and those who weigh less than 130 pounds. The medium and firm models are better-suited to back and stomach sleepers, and may be more convenient for combination sleepers thanks to their responsive feel.
As with its original mattress, WinkBeds backs the MemoryLux with a 120-night sleep trial and a lifetime warranty. The MemoryLux is CertiPUR-US certified and has a non-chemical fire barrier.
Made with organic wool, Talalay latex, and durable pocketed coils, the Birch is an attractive choice for eco-conscious shoppers on a budget.
The Birch mattress offers a sustainable option at a competitive price-point. This 11-inch latex hybrid mattress is constructed with a natural cotton cover, wool and Talalay latex comfort layers, and a pocketed coil support core. Breathable natural materials coupled with the innerspring support core help the mattress to maintain a neutral temperature.
The bouncy, lightweight Talalay latex and springy wool layers give the Birch a medium firm feel. This works best for back and side sleepers, and is responsive enough not to inhibit movement when switching sleeping positions. The pocketed coils also have a reinforced perimeter that ensures reliable edge support.
The Birch mattress uses a non-chemical fire retardant layer and carries a host of green certifications, including GREENGUARD Gold, Rainforest Alliance, and Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). The mattress is hypo-allergenic and releases no harsh off-gassing odors.
Birch mattress customers enjoy free shipping and a 100-night sleep trial. The mattress has a durable build and is backed by a lengthy 25-year warranty.
Cushioning foams in the Nolah Original hug the body to reduce aches and pains from typical contact points such as the hips and shoulders.
Hip pain sufferers may find relief in the Nolah Original, a 10-inch all-foam mattress designed with cushioning foams that conform to relieve pressure points. A top layer of proprietary AirFoam and a second layer of transitional polyfoam alleviate sore spots without restricting movement. In the mattress core, a thick layer of high-density polyfoam provides the support needed to keep the spine aligned and prevent the hips from sinking in.
In terms of firmness the Nolah Original mattress falls at a medium, or a 5 out of 10 on the firmness scale. This makes it ideal for side sleepers and those who weigh less than 130 pounds. These sleepers often experience pressure points from firmer mattresses, as they don’t exert enough pressure on the mattress to feel a firmer bed’s cushioning. The relatively plush foams also absorb motion well, keeping co-sleepers from waking each other in the night.
The Nolah Original is CertiPUR-US certified, meaning the foams used in the bed are made without a variety of harmful chemicals and ozone depleters. For every mattress purchased, the company makes a donation to American organization Defenders of Wildlife. Nolah offers a 120-night sleep trial and a 15-year warranty, with free shipping in the contiguous U.S.
A king mattress is an investment, and hopefully one that you’ll be able to enjoy for many years. To help you find the best king mattress for you, we’ll discuss different types of king mattresses, who is best-suited to a king mattress, and factors that influence comfort and support.
Mattress companies like to highlight the proprietary features that make their products stand out from the crowd. However, before giving consideration to these special features, you need to consider whether a mattress is adequate for your body type and preferred sleeping position. If a mattress isn’t right for your sleeping style, no amount of cooling gels or other features can change that.
The following are some of the most important things to look for when buying a mattress. If you look through these mattress qualities and prioritize them based on your personal needs, then you can read between the lines and select a mattress that suits your needs.
Price
King mattresses are the most expensive due to their larger size, but it’s still possible to find good deals to suit most budgets if you do your research. When shopping for a king mattress, you’ll have to weigh the quality and build of the mattress against the amount of money you’re willing to spend.
Sleeping Position
Different sleeping positions alter weight distribution and give rise to different contact points. Since side sleepers typically complain of soreness at the hips and shoulders, a softer mattress with more cushioning is usually the best choice. By contrast, back and stomach sleepers usually opt for a firmer mattress to prevent the hips from sinking in too far, which can disrupt spinal alignment.
Mattress Type
Most shoppers that set out to buy a mattress already have a preferred type. However, if you believe your current mattress may be affecting the quality of your sleep, it may be time to branch out and try a new kind. We’ll go into more detail below about the advantages offered by each type of mattress, and who is best-suited to a foam, innerspring, hybrid, latex, or airbed mattress.
Contouring
Because mattresses with closer contouring can adapt to the body’s curves, they generally do a better job of alleviating pressure points. However, materials that conform closely usually have a slower response to pressure. As the sleeper changes positions, it can take a few moments for the mattress to adjust to the new shape. Some sleepers liken this to the feeling of being “trapped” in the bed, and it can be frustrating for those who frequently switch sleeping positions.
Quality Materials
Denser foams, higher coil counts, and other quality markers are a good indication of how well your mattress will perform. They can also help you predict how long the mattress will last before starting to sag or develop permanent body indentations. There’s no harm in cutting corners on a mattress for occasional use, such as a guest room mattress. However, your primary mattress should be made of materials that can withstand nightly use and provide consistent spinal support and pressure relief.
Firmness Level
Mattress firmness determines whether the bed feels hard as a rock or soft as a feather. Most sleepers find that the sweet spot lies somewhere in the middle, at medium firm or a 5 to 7 on a scale of 1 to 10 with 10 being the firmest. This is firm enough to keep the spine on an even plane, but soft enough that it won’t cause too many pressure points. You may prefer a slightly softer or firmer mattress depending on your body type and preferred sleeping position.
Pressure Relief
Pressure relief is important for all sleepers, as it’s difficult to sleep soundly on an uncomfortable mattress. It’s arguably most important for side sleepers, who often experience pressure build-up where the hips and shoulders meet the mattress. Sleepers who prioritize pressure relief typically opt for memory foam or softer latex mattresses, which are considered some of the best materials for relieving pressure points.
Edge Support
For those of us who enjoy sleeping right up to the edge of the bed or who have trouble getting in and out of bed, edge support is key. Many hybrid and innerspring mattresses have strong edges that enable full use of the sleeping surface. Higher-gauge coils or high-density polyfoam encasements can further reinforce the perimeter and prevent the feelings of instability that can plague softer mattresses.
Temperature Regulation
Sleep experts recommend a slightly cooler temperature for sleeping, but this can be hard to achieve on a mattress that traps heat. Mattresses that incorporate innerspring coils or breathable elements like latex tend to offer the best temperature neutrality. Hot sleepers may also have some luck with beds that make use of cooling technology such as gel-infused foams or phase-change material.
Noise
If you’re planning to buy a king size mattress, there’s a good chance you’ll be sleeping with a partner. Hybrid and innerspring mattresses can produce squeaks and creaks in the coil layers, which may end up bothering your partner every time you move. Likewise, airbed chambers can make some noise when inflating or deflating. Latex and all-foam mattresses are virtually silent and make the best choice for sensitive sleepers.
Introduced to the mainstream bedding industry in the 1940s, king mattresses are the largest of the standard sizes. A king mattress measures 76 by 80 inches, leaving more than enough space for two adults to sleep side-by-side. King mattresses are becoming increasingly popular with multiple subsets of sleepers, including single adults, couples, and families.
Single Adults: With its imposing, almost-square build, a king size mattress can make a powerful statement in a spacious bedroom. If you sleep alone, a king size mattress can be the perfect accent for your carefully curated interior design. For taller sleepers, larger sleepers, or those who frequently switch sleeping positions, a king mattress also allows enough room to sprawl out and get your beauty rest.
Couples: Falling asleep while spooning is romantic, but it’s not for everybody. A king size mattress gives each partner ample room to sleep comfortably. If you and your partner have trouble agreeing on mattress firmness, you can take things one step further and buy a split king with two different feels.
Families: There’s nothing cuter than having the kids cozy up with you in bed, but if you’re short on space, this can make it tricky to get to sleep. A king size mattress is the best option if you and your sleeping partner want some extra room for kids or pets.
There are several variations of the king size mattress, of which the most frequently seen is the California king. Measuring 72 by 84 inches, the California king size is 4 inches narrower and 4 inches longer than the standard king.
The extra length of the California king makes it popular with taller individuals. However, many people prefer the aesthetic appeal of the almost-square standard king mattress. This size may also be more convenient for heavier sleepers or those who anticipate sharing the bed with children or pets.
Almost every mattress manufacturer offers both king and California king mattresses at identical price-points, although it might be slightly harder to find bedding for California king mattresses. King and California king mattresses may also come in a split version, in which each side can be customized with a different firmness level or other preferences. As split king mattresses aren’t fully attached to each other, they also allow less motion transfer.
Other types of king beds include Alaska king (108 by 108 inches) and Wyoming king (84 by 84 inches). These are rarely found through regular channels and may need to be special-ordered where available.
A king size mattress may be ideal for sleepers who love spreading out in bed, but not everybody has the space for such a hefty mattress. Here are some pros and cons to weigh if you’re considering the jump to a king size mattress.
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Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the different mattress types is a useful way of knowing how a mattress is likely to feel. However, despite broad similarities in materials and construction, the specific design of each mattress will give it its own distinct feel. We’ve outlined the major characteristics of the five major mattress types you’ll find on the market today.
Definition: Hybrid mattresses are generally made with a pocketed coil support core to reduce noise and motion transfer. This is supplemented by a comfort section with one or more layers of memory foam, latex, micro-coils, or other pressure-relieving materials.
Highlight: Middle Ground. Because they incorporate the qualities of multiple materials, hybrid mattresses are a convenient compromise for sleepers who have trouble deciding between the merits of coils, foam, or latex.
Definition: Innerspring mattresses are built almost entirely of steel coils that provide bounce, support, and airflow. Some innerspring mattresses may have a comfort layer, but this does not significantly change the feel of the mattress.
Highlight: Customizable. Innerspring mattresses pair well with mattress toppers. Co-sleepers can use a split king mattress to give each side a different feel and eliminate the problem of motion transfer that can arise with interconnected coils.
Definition: Natural latex is made by processing the milky white liquid of the rubber tree, using either the Dunlop or Talalay method. The resulting material is breathable and durable, and it can be given different properties that make it suitable for use in both the comfort and support layers of a mattress. Synthetic latex alternatives also exist, but they are of lesser quality.
Highlight: Sustainable and Durable. Natural latex is gaining recognition in eco-conscious circles thanks to its environmentally friendly credentials. Despite the higher price tag, latex is a worthwhile investment as it promises longer durability than most mattress materials.
Definition: Made with one or more air chambers in the support core, airbed mattresses feature customizable firmness that can be adjusted by inflating or deflating the chambers. Airbeds may also have an additional comfort layer section on top of the air chambers.
Highlight: Individual Control. King size airbeds usually have a separate air chamber for each side of the bed, so each sleeper can experiment to find the feel that works for them.
Definition: All-foam mattresses have a support core made of high-density polyfoam, and may feature memory foam, latex, polyfoam, or similar materials in the comfort section.
Highlight: Motion Isolation. All-foam mattresses tend to perform the best on motion isolation, which can reduce disruptions when sharing the bed.
Before settling on a purchase decision, ask yourself if the mattress is well-suited to its intended sleepers, and don’t forget to read the fine print for shipping, sleep trial, and warranty policies.
A king mattress is large enough to be used by one or two adults. If you anticipate using the mattress for more than one sleeper, be sure to take each party’s needs into consideration.
Side sleepers and those who weigh less than 130 pounds typically need a closer-conforming mattress that helps take the pressure off the hips and shoulders. Stomach sleepers and those who weigh more than 230 pounds need a firmer surface to better distribute body weight. A split king may be the answer in cases where two sleepers with vastly different needs are sharing the bed.
It’s not uncommon for kids and pets to join their parents in bed. In this case, it may be more appropriate to use a regular king mattress instead of a split king to prevent having anyone sleep on the crack between the mattresses. Those who share the bed with one or more restless sleepers may benefit from a mattress that dampens motion and noise, while strong edge support allows full use of the bed for families who may otherwise find it too crowded.
Most king mattresses are able to be compressed, shrink-wrapped, and shipped as a bed-in-a-box. The standard in the online mattress industry is to offer free ground shipping within the continental U.S., with many companies also offering optional White Glove delivery and old mattress removal for an extra fee. In rare cases where certain king size mattresses may be too heavy to ship via ground shipping, companies may include White Glove delivery at no additional charge.
Mattresses ordered online should come with a sleep trial of at least 90 nights, giving you time to test out the mattress at home and receive a refund if it doesn’t work for you. Following this period, mattress companies typically offer a warranty of at least 10 years against workmanship and manufacturing defects. Before finalizing payment on your new mattress, it’s always a good idea to double-check these terms.
