King vs. California King: Mattress Size Comparison Guide + Chart [2026]

Key Takeaways

• Standard king mattresses (76-by-80 inches) are wider but shorter than California king mattresses (72-by-84 inches).
• A California king bed is 4 inches narrower and 4 inches longer than a king bed.
• The surface area of a king mattress is 6,080 square inches while the surface area of a California king is 6,048 square inches — so a standard king is actually bigger.

You’re upgrading your bedroom and deciding what mattress size to buy, but you’re stuck comparing king vs. California king mattresses. How do these sizes compare?

The primary difference between king vs. California king mattresses is their dimensions. King mattresses are wider while California king beds are longer. A king mattress also has a larger surface area than a California king mattress.

So, which size should you choose when shopping for Purple mattresses? This guide breaks down both mattress sizes and what you should consider when deciding between a king and a California king.

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California King vs. King Dimensions

California king and standard king mattresses are fairly close in size, but they do not have the same measurements. California king beds are 4 inches longer and 4 inches narrower than king beds, offering extra legroom but less space to spread out width-wise.

The difference in size affects several aspects of your bedroom, including the minimum room size you need, the bed sheet sizes you should use, and who can sleep comfortably on each mattress. Understanding basic king vs. California king pros and cons will help you make the right pick for your needs.

What Is a King Mattress?

The king mattress (also sometimes known as an Eastern king) is the widest standard mattress size on the market. King bed dimensions measure 76-by-80 inches, with king bed frames adding an extra 2 to 5 inches on each side. With slightly more surface area than the California king, king mattresses offer plenty of room for single sleepers, couples, and parents who co-sleep with their kids or pets.

Standard kings typically start at a slightly lower price point than California kings. With a standard king, you will also have an easier time finding a variety of options for bedding, bed frames, and adjustable bases.Best for: People who like to spread out or move around while they sleep. King mattresses are particularly great for couples who are side sleepers. If you have children or pets who share your bed, a king is wider than a queen or California king, offering more space for co-sleeping arrangements.

What Is a California King Mattress?

Named for its inventor who lived in Los Angeles, the California king is best for people between 6’3” and 7’ tall who need more length than a standard king. A California king will also fit better in a narrower bedroom, which makes it a roomier option when deciding between California king vs. queen beds when a standard king wouldn’t fit.

California king mattresses measure 72 inches wide and 84 inches long — 4 inches longer and 4 inches narrower than a king. This variation of the standard king is widely available, making it the longest standard size mattress on the market. The real question isn’t how much bigger a California king vs. king is, since a standard king size bed has more surface area, but which width and length works best for you. California king beds are longer, offering more legroom but less width to spread out.

Best for: 

• People between 6’3” and 7’ tall 
• Couples
• Those who sleep with pets
• Narrower bedrooms

How To Choose Between a King vs. a California King

When comparing a California king bed vs. a standard king bed, knowing the features, benefits, and dimensions of both options will help you decide which bed size is right for you.

Here are a few factors to consider when deciding between a king and a California king:

1. Consider Your Height

Your height is important when deciding between a king and a California king. If you are between 6’3” and 7’ tall, a California king will give you enough space for a more comfortable night’s sleep.

If you’re tall and sleep flat on your back or stomach, a California king will ensure your legs don’t dangle off the edge of the bed.

2. Factor in Your Sleeping Position

You’ll want to consider your sleeping position before choosing between a king or a California king.

Taller side sleepers can usually choose either size since they often bend their knees while sleeping. Tall back and stomach sleepers may prefer the length of a California king more since they lie with their legs outstretched.

3. Review Your Bedroom Layout

Since king mattresses are a little wider, your room should measure 12-by-12 feet or bigger so your mattress can fit comfortably. Anything smaller would make your room feel cramped, in which case a queen mattress may be a better option.

California king mattresses fit well in rooms 11-by-13 feet or bigger. A California king bed isn’t as wide as a standard king, making it a better fit in narrower bedrooms. Always check the dimensions of your room before purchasing a new mattress.

4. Analyze Your Family Needs

King and California king mattresses are large enough for multiple sleepers, but families with small children or pets who also share the bed might prefer the extra width of a king. 

Split kings may work well, too, if you sleep with a partner who has a different firmness preference than you. A split king mattress is two twin XL mattresses placed side by side. This gives you the same dimensions as a standard king mattress, which is good to keep in mind when comparing split king vs. California king options.

5. Determine Your Budget

California king mattresses usually start at a higher price point than regular king mattresses, but high quality options tend to cost around the same price for both sizes. If you’re considering specialty, extra-large bed sizes, such as an Alaskan king bed vs. California king, those will always start at a higher price point than both California king and standard king mattresses.  

Is a King or California King Right for You?

When you compare king vs. California king beds, your needs and preferences take precedence. You should determine what will help you and your partner sleep better, whether that’s more legroom or more space to yourselves. You should also consider features like mattress thickness, firmness, and materials, which can also impact your sleep quality.

Four extra inches in length make the California king worthwhile for individuals between 6’3” and 7’ tall as well as people who want more space at the foot of their beds for a pet. If you want to spread out more without disturbing a partner and don’t need a longer bed, a standard king may be a better fit.

Purple offers king beds and California king mattresses, both enhanced with GelFlex Grid® technology. Our proprietary sleep innovation provides blissful pressure relief and optimal support simultaneously, while also keeping cool through the night and instantly adapting to movement. Experience life-changing sleep with our 100-night trial.

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No matter what size bed you need, Purple mattresses offer cooling comfort and cradling support to help you sleep soundly.

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