When buying mattresses, most people make the mistake of choosing a random size that appears to fit perfectly in their room. It’s only when they start using the mattress that they realize they’ve made a huge mistake.

Using beds and mattresses whose dimensions do not fit your room space, body size, and other sleeping conditions can cost you a lot both in terms of money and comfort.

Most people shopping for King mattresses often get confused between a King-size and a California King-size mattress. Though both mattresses have the word king in them, they are not the same. In fact, a king mattress is wider and a California King is longer in dimensions.

This blog gives you a detailed comparison between these two mattresses to help you figure out which one will work best for you, so keep on reading till the end.

• What is a California King Size Mattress?

• Pros

• Cons

• What is a King-Size Mattress?

• Pros

• Cons

• California King vs King: A Detailed Comparison

• Rooms Dimensions

• Cost

• Sleeper’s Body Size

• Sleeping Position

• Comfort

What is a California King Size Mattress?

A California King mattress, also known as a Western King Mattress, measures 72” x 84” in dimensions. This makes these mattresses 4 inches narrower and 4 inches longer than King-size mattresses. These mattresses offer more legroom but limited space to spread out.

These mattresses can even fit in smaller rooms due to their narrower design. They work well for couples with pets. The surface area of these mattresses is smaller than that of king-size mattresses, making them ideal for single individuals who want to save space.

Pros

• These mattresses are perfect for longer sleepers with heights greater than 6’2”.

• They can fit in a narrow bedroom without covering up a lot of space.

• These are easier to move than king mattresses.

• They are ideal for couples who sleep close together and don’t need much space to spread out.

Cons

• These have a higher price tag.

• Their bedding and bed frames are not widely available.

• They are very hard to find in a split size.

What is a King-Size Mattress?

A king-size mattress, also known as an Eastern King Mattress, measures 76” x 80” in dimensions. This bed is equivalent to two XL twin mattresses placed side by side. These mattresses can accommodate two sleepers who can enjoy ample sprawling space. The wider dimensions of these mattresses also make them perfect for co-sleepers with kids or pets.

King mattresses tend to be wider but shorter than California King mattresses. The greater surface area of these mattresses ensures greater comfort for more sleepers. Standard king mattresses give you more freedom in terms of bedding and bed frames due to their worldwide popularity.

Pros

• These work best for couples with kids and pets.

• Their surface area is greater than California King mattresses, which increases comfort.

• These mattresses are lower in price.

• You can also find these in split sizes.

• King mattresses can be paired with a wide range of adjustable bases, duvets, sheets, and bed frames.

Cons

• These mattresses are wider and heavier, which makes them difficult to move.

• You cannot use them for smaller rooms.

• People over 6’2” height cannot sleep on these mattresses comfortably.

California King vs King: A Detailed Comparison

Here’s a detailed comparison to help you differentiate between a King and a California King mattress. You can use this information to make a more informed decision about which one to choose for your room.

The following are some additional comparison points between California king vs king mattresses to help you figure out what really sets these two mattress types apart.

1. Rooms Dimensions

An Eastern King or King-sized bed covers a surface area of 6,080 square inches. These mattresses are suitable for rooms measuring 11 x 13 feet or 12 x 14 feet.

California king mattresses have a surface area of 6,048 square inches. These mattresses can be used in rooms with 11 x 13 feet or 12 x 14 feet dimensions.

2. Cost

California king mattresses tend to be more expensive due to their longer dimensions, limited availability, and pricy accessories. King-size mattresses are less expensive, but some quality brands that give you a warranty and additional services may cost you as much as California king mattresses.

3. Sleeper’s Body Size

California King mattresses are ideal for sleepers taller than 6’2” but under 7’. These taller individuals enjoy more legroom with these mattresses, which enhances comfort. 

For sleepers with heights less than 6’2”, a king-size bed is the best option. The wide dimensions of these mattresses make them ideal for such sleepers, as they give them more room to move around.

4. Sleeping Position

Your sleeping habits also have a bearing on the type of mattress you need to pick. If you need more personal space while sleeping, a king-size mattress is what you need. Taller side sleepers who bend their legs may also find a King-size mattress suitable.

California king mattresses are ideal for tall back sleepers. Stomach sleepers can also use these mattresses as they allow them to fully stretch out their legs.

5. Comfort

Both of these mattresses give you enough space where you can sleep comfortably. However, if you are a couple with kids or pets, you can benefit more from the extra personal space that king-size mattresses provide.

Couples who live alone or taller single sleepers can opt for California King mattresses as they give them enough personal space and legroom to sleep without a care.=

Conclusion

It’s quite easy to differentiate between a King-size and a California King-size mattress. King-sized mattresses are wider but shorter than California mattresses. On the other hand, California King mattresses tend to be longer but narrower.

King mattresses are ideal for big families and larger rooms. California King mattresses are more suitable for just couples or single sleepers who are taller than 6’2”.

Make sure to consider your sleeping habits, room size, and budget when deciding between these two bed types to make sure you buy a mattress that fits your space perfectly and ensures a comfy and relaxing night’s sleep.

You can visit us at Nayam Sleep to check out our wide range of mattresses and beds that meet all of your size, room space, and budget requirements to get the best value for your money.