Choosing the right mattress size is an important aspect of picking your next bed. If you’re trying to decide between queen vs king, this article is for you. We will compare the difference between king and queen beds, starting with the basic dimensions, before moving on to the considerations you should take when choosing between these two popular sizes.

QueenKing
Dimensions60” wide, 80” long76” wide, 80” long
Surface Area4,800 square inches6,080 square inches
Benefits
  • Affordable
  • The most popular size – most people already own queen accessories and bedding
  • Comfortable for most couples
  • Easier to move than king
  • Very spacious
  • Can accommodate a couple and a small child, or a pet
  • Looks great in large bedrooms
Drawbacks
  • Can feel cramped for some couples
  • Not recommended for couples sharing the bed with a small child or pet
  • More expensive than queen
  • Accessories will also cost more
  • More difficult to move
  • Doesn’t fit well in all spaces

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?

Trouble sleeping?

Answer these 5 easy questions to discover your perfect mattress

Trouble sleeping?

Answer these 5 easy questions to discover your perfect mattress

What position do you sleep in?

Side icon

Side

Side icon
Back icon

Back

Back icon
Stomach icon

Stomach

Stomach icon

Do you experience any pain while sleeping?

Back and/or side pain icon

Back and/or side pain

Back and/or side pain icon
Neck and/or shoulder pain icon

Neck and/or shoulder pain

Neck and/or shoulder pain icon
Little to no pain icon

Little to no pain

Little to no pain icon

Do you have any material preferences?

Innerspring icon

Innerspring

Innerspring icon
Foam icon

Foam

Foam icon
No preference/ Other icon

No preference/ Other

Do you sleep hot?

Yes icon

Yes

Yes icon
No icon

No

No icon

Do you sleep with a partner?

Yes icon

Yes

Yes icon
No icon

No

No icon

Back

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.

Learn more about our Editorial Team

Learn More About Mattress Sizes and Dimensions

California King vs. King

By Lauren Fountain June 12, 2023

Full vs. Queen

By Logan Foley June 12, 2023

Twin vs. Twin XL

By Logan Foley June 12, 2023

What is a Double Bed?

By Austin Meadows June 12, 2023

Single vs. Twin

By Austin Meadows June 12, 2023

What is the Size of a Queen Bed Frame?

By Lauren Fountain June 12, 2023

Twin XL vs. Full

By Logan Foley June 12, 2023

Oversized Mattress Sizes

By Logan Foley June 12, 2023

close quiz
We Are Here To Help You Sleep.
Tell us about your sleep by taking this brief quiz.

Based on your answers, we will calculate your free Sleep Foundation Score and create a personalized sleep profile that includes sleep-improving products and education curated just for you.

Saas Quiz Saas Quiz