King vs. Queen Bed: An In-Depth Comparison Guide + CHART

Key Takeaways

• King size beds measure 76-by-80 inches. King beds fit couples, allowing space to move freely or to co-sleep with children or pets.
• Queen beds measure 60-by-80 inches. Two adults fit well on a queen bed, but little room is available for co-sleeping with children or pets.
• To choose between a king vs. queen bed, consider your bedroom dimensions, number of sleepers, and body type.

A queen mattress is the most common bed size for adults, but a king bed may be the better solution for some sleepers.¹

It’s important to know the fine details when choosing the right mattress size for you. The most apparent distinction between a king vs. queen bed comes down to a 16-inch difference in width. 

In this article, we break down the key distinctions between king vs. queen size mattresses, including dimensions, recommended room sizes, and more, to help you decide between the two.

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King vs. Queen Size Comparison

King size mattresses, also known as Eastern king mattresses, measure 76 inches in width and 80 inches in length. This equates to 6,080 square inches of sleeping space. If you have a large primary bedroom, a king size bed is the perfect fit.

Queen size mattresses measure 60 inches in width and 80 inches in length — totaling 4,800 square inches of sleeping space. As you can see, the only apparent difference from a king bed is 16 inches in width. Despite being a smaller variation, queen mattresses are still a good option for partners, but they're especially beneficial for individual sleepers who prefer the luxury of space.

Differences Between Queen and King Beds

There are a few key differences between a king and a queen bed. Let’s break them down in the table below.

King vs. Queen Pros and Cons

Queen and king mattresses each come with unique pros and cons. One primary pro of a queen size bed is that it is universally made to fit in most bedrooms, aside from a guest room tailored to a twin mattress. 

Standard king beds are a staple in larger primary bedrooms. At 16 inches wider than its queen counterpart, king mattresses provide the luxury of space for those who find a queen bed too small. 

In general, this generous level of comfort and space translates to higher costs, as king beds are more expensive than a queen. Here is a breakdown of the other benefits and disadvantages you need to know.

Who Is a Queen or King Bed Best For? 

When determining the right mattress size, it’s important to take into account your sleeping positions, the number of sleepers, and your current and future room size. 

A standard queen mattress is an excellent option for couples, two adults, or anyone who doesn’t have a huge primary bedroom to accommodate a king size mattress.

King beds, on the other hand, are the primary choice for couples where at least one partner is a restless sleeper. The extra space allows for minimal motion transfer and sleep disruptions, maintaining an optimum comfort level. Parents who sleep in the same bed as their children can also benefit from the extra width.

King and queen pillow sizes are also designed to suit their respective mattress sizes, though you can comfortably use queen size pillows on a king mattress.

How To Choose Between a Queen vs. King Bed

Since both queen and king beds are a great option for couples, there are other considerations to weigh and help you decide between a king vs. queen bed. Here is a comprehensive list of these factors to keep in mind.

1. Count the Number of Sleepers

King and queen mattresses are both designed for couples or sleeping partners. For couples who want to sleep in the same bed as their children or pets, a king will be the option that guarantees adequate space, though larger families may consider a bigger bed size like the Alaskan king for maximum comfort.

For most single sleepers, a queen bed provides adequate space while a king tends to provide more than enough room, if not too much. With a queen, you can stretch your limbs as much as you want and sleep in any position you desire, meaning a king is not necessary for comfort optimization.

2. Consider Your Body Size

Sleepers' body size and weight are critical factors in choosing the right mattress size. Couples with plus-size bodies and above-average heights tend to spring for king size beds for more room and comfort. Couples, where one or both partners have plus-size frames, may find queen mattresses to be tight sleeping quarters, resulting in discomfort.

3. Consider Your Sleeping Position

You should always consider your and your partner’s sleeping positions and comfort preferences before buying a mattress. 

Many people switch sleeping positions during the night, and some people sleep more sprawled than others. Queen beds may not be ideal for these kinds of sleepers not sleeping alone, but a king allows for a wider range of motion without disturbing the other people in the bed. The greater distance between sleepers on a king bed is also more favorable for hot sleepers.

For tall sleepers who prefer to sleep alone, a queen mattress is a good option that provides moveable space and ultimate comfort. Still, a queen can be appropriate for couples who don’t toss and turn too much at night. If you and your partner work opposite shifts and don't always sleep at the same time, you may also find that a queen bed suits your needs for sprawling space. 

For those that sleep on their side and those that sleep on their stomach, take note of how much space you typically occupy through the night to confirm which size mattress is best for you.

4. Measure Your Room Size

Placing a king size bed in a smaller room can limit your furniture options as well as your ability to move around. A queen might not be suitable for apartments either, as this kind of space is often designed for full or twin mattresses. 

If you want to buy a queen size bed frame and mattress, your room should be at least 10-by-10 feet, while a king bed should be placed in a room with minimum dimensions of 12-by-12 feet. This leaves generous space for you and other objects.

Apart from bedroom size, there are other variables to consider before choosing between a king vs. queen bed. You also have to consider the arrangement of your furniture, appliances, wardrobe, and other components before deciding on the ideal mattress size, as you don't want your bed to steal floor space.

5. Reflect on Your Budget 

How much is your budget for a new mattress? Prices for both mattress types vary significantly depending on a number of factors. Generally, a king bed is pricier than a queen. With its bigger dimensions, elaborate materials, and accessories, this is only reasonable. 

High-quality queen beds normally cost around $1,000 to $2,500. On the other hand, king size beds of the same quality typically cost $1,500 to $3,000. In addition to this, king bed frames, foundations, and bedding will cost more.

If you're on a tight budget, a queen bed will likely be an ideal option. And if you’re looking for more affordable options outside a king vs. queen, check out Purple's wide selection of high-quality and cost-efficient mattresses!

Purple Mattresses Fit for Royalty

Choosing between a queen vs. king bed is all about individual preferences. If you’re considering replacing or upgrading your mattress, Purple has your back — literally. 

Whether your space better fits a queen bed or you’d like the extra sleeping space with a king, Purple has a mattress for you. Our proprietary GelFlex® Grid provides adaptive support that cradles your body’s curves, offering ultimate pressure relief, motion responsiveness, and impeccable breathability.