King vs. California King: Mattress Size Comparison Guide + Chart [2024]

Key Takeaways

• Standard king mattresses (80-by-76 inches) are wider but shorter than California king mattresses (84-by-72 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.

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

The primary difference between king and 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.

Comparing king vs. California king beds means acknowledging the differences in size and considering how the length and width of your new bed will fit your bedroom and sleep preferences.

Between a king and California king mattress, which one should you choose? This guide breaks down both mattress sizes and what you should consider when deciding between a king and a California king.

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 dimensions are longer and narrower by 4 inches in each dimension compared to 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. A California king mattress size comparison helps you assess important factors and decide which mattress size will best meet your needs. 

What Is a King Mattress?

The king mattress is the widest standard mattress size on the market, measuring 80-by-76 inches. 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.

If you’re comparing a king size bed vs. a California king, both options are generally the same price but standard kings typically start at a slightly lower price point. 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 under 7’ who need more length than a standard king.

California king mattresses measure 84 inches long by 72 inches wide — 4 inches longer than a king. This variation of the standard king is widely available, making it the longest standard size mattress on the market. When comparing a California vs. king bed, the biggest difference is space. 

California king beds are longer, offering more legroom but less width to spread out, making them suitable for taller couples who don’t need more than 36 inches to themselves.

Best for: People between 6’3” and 7’ tall, couples, and those who sleep with pets. A California king will also fit better in a narrower bedroom.

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 considerations of both options will help you decide which option 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 the 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 aren’t dangling off the edge of the bed

2. Factor in Your Sleeping Position

You’ll want to factor in your sleeping position before choosing 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 enjoy 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 be 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 for you.

California king mattresses fit well in a room 11-by-13 feet or bigger. A California king bed isn’t as wide as a standard king, making it a better fit in a narrower bedroom.

You should always check the dimensions of your room before purchasing a new mattress.

4. Analyze Your Family Needs

Kings and California kings are large enough for multiple sleepers, but families with small children or pets who share the bed might prefer a king since it offers extra width. 

Split kings and split California kings may work well, too, if you sleep with a partner who has different firmness preferences. A split king mattress is two twin XL mattresses placed side-by-side.

You can also assemble a split king mattress by pushing two twin XL mattresses together, though this arrangement will be 5 inches shorter than a standard king bed.

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. 

When determining how much you want to spend, consider your specific needs. 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.

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.

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.