California King Mattress Vs King Mattress – What Is the Difference?

California King Mattress Vs King Mattress - What Is the Difference

In the world of king-size beds, the Standard King and California King are particularly popular: The California King is narrower and slightly longer than a standard king-size bed, loses 4″ on the sides, and increases the length of the mattress by 4”.

A king-size or California king-size is a common choice when it comes to the best mattresses. Both are big enough to share without disturbing sleep; however, the two are so similar that it is difficult to choose between them.

In our article, we discuss the differences between a King and California King Mattress and include the advantages and disadvantages of the two sizes and what things to consider for determining which mattress size is suitable for you.

Which Bed Is Bigger King or California King?

The biggest difference between these two sizes is their width and length; Cal King prioritizes length while the Standard King offers the maximum width.

Which Bed Is Bigger King or California King

California King Mattress

The California King’s dimensions (72 “wide by 84” long) are best for taller people or for narrow spaces where the slimmer profile is aesthetically more fitting.

King-Size Mattress

The standard king-size (76 “wide by 80” long) is best for couples and families with young children or pets who share a bed, and for larger rooms.

Technically, a California king mattress is smaller than a standard king. A king mattress offers 6080 square inches of space, while a California king is 6048 square inches. That’s only a difference of 32 square inches, but it still means a California king features less space. As a reminder, while a California king mattress is 4 inches longer than a regular king; it’s also 4 inches narrower.

California King Mattress Vs King

How do you determine the best mattress size for you? Below we break down some key factors to consider before purchasing your new bed.

 Difference Between California King and King

The biggest difference between a king bed and a California king bed is that one bed is shorter and wider while the other is longer and narrower. A king-size bed is 76 cm wide and 80 cm long. Inches narrower than a king bed at 72 inches wide but longer at 84 inches.

Let us guide you through the pros and cons of each mattress size and compare its size, dimensions, and cost.

 Difference Between California King and King

Size Comparisons and Dimensions

A California king bed is 72 inches wide by 84 inches long, which makes it 4 inches longer than a king bed and the longest available bed. The allowed width per person is 36 inches.

King beds are 76 inches wide by 80 inches long, or 4 inches wider than a California king bed. Look for King bedding that fits that size.

Weight

A king mattress can weigh anywhere from 130 to 180 pounds. Keep in mind that manufacturers offer different variations of this size and each bed can use a specific material that can add to the weight of the mattress. This weight range also applies to the California King. The California King Original mattress weighs its own 100 pounds and 109 pounds packed in the box.

Cost and Availability

There are some manufacturers that charge a higher price for California king beds than standard king beds because the former are less popular.

While the price is the same between the two sizes, buyers will find Cal bed accessories like bed frames, box spring beds, sheets, and other bedding for Cal King, in general, more expensive in comparison to standard king bed accessories.

King Vs California King Pros and Cons

Now that you know the measurements of both the King and the California King mattress, let’s dive into the pros and cons.

King Mattress Pros and Cons

A standard king-size mattress has unique pros and cons when compared to a California king.

Pros
  • It has extra width which is great for couples, fits easily in most master bedrooms.
  • It is more common and easier to buy accessories/bedding.
  • It is four inches wider than the Cal king.
  • Kings cost less than the California king.
Cons
  • Not enough length for people over 6’4” tall
  • May not fit narrower bedrooms

 

Ideal For: The king mattress is ideal for people who like to spread out or move around while they sleep. King mattresses are great for side-sleeping couples. If you have little children or pets who like to join you and your significant other in bed at night, a king has more space for them, too.

California King Mattress Pros and Cons

A California king-size bed offers advantages and disadvantages when compared to a standard king mattress.

Pros
  • Four inches longer than the king
  • More length for people over 6’4”
  • It May fit a narrower room better than a king
  • May fit through doors easier
Cons
  • Four inches smaller in width compared to a king
  • Generally costs more than a king
  • May not fit in smaller bedrooms

 

Ideal For: The California king mattress is ideal for taller people and couples. If you need a little extra legroom, the added four inches will make a big difference. Also, if you have a narrower bedroom, a California king will fit better than a king.

Is A Double Mattress and A Full-Size Mattress the Same Size?

A double bed and a full-size mattress are the same dimensions, 54 x 75 inches. In fact, the terms “double bed” and “full-size mattress” are often used interchangeably. When it comes to mattress sizes, “double” and “full” are exactly the same. Although double beds are referred to as doubles, they cannot comfortably accommodate two sleeping adults.

Is A Double Mattress and A Full-Size Mattress the Same Size

Double beds were popular with couples before queen and king beds were introduced. Sharing a double mattress only provides 27 “by 75” of space for each sleeper, which is generally not enough to get a good night’s sleep.

A large mattress is the same as a double bed. A double bed is best for a 3 x 3-meter room. When preparing the bed, consider the space you will need for furniture and walking. It is best to leave at least 2 to 3 feet of space on all sides of the bed, except for the side against the wall.

What to Consider When Choosing King or Cal King?

Lifestyle

Maybe you are looking for a bigger bed because you and your partner want more space to sleep, or maybe you have kids who lie sleepily next to you on Sunday mornings, or maybe your pet has mattress privileges and your current bed. It just doesn’t cut anymore.

Whatever the reason, a king-size bed is the best way to get extra sleeping space. The 72 to 76 inches wide, whichever you choose, gives each person a section of bed roughly the same size as a twin bed.

Room Size

A standard size bedroom is estimated at 11 x 12 feet (132 square feet). A master bedroom gives you more space and measures 4 x 16 feet (309 square feet).

If you are going to buy a king or California king mattress, so keep it in your mind that you must have enough room for this size mattress. You should have a minimum space of 2 feet on all 3 sides of the bed that gives you enough room to move the bed easily and your room will not be congested.

If you have a narrower room, a Cal King may be the best option for you. But if you have a wider room then a Standard king-size mattress should work just fine.

What to Consider When Choosing King or Cal King

Your Height

A California king bed is ideal for taller people and mostly for those who are more than 6 feet tall. This extra length gives you more legroom and ensures that your feet never dangle over the ends of the bed.

According to my, California King Mattress can help by making you feel more comfortable while you sleep. If you’ve got enough space for a bed this size, the Cal King is worth a decision if you’re on the higher side.

Body Type

When investing in a new bed, be sure to purchase a mattress that will suit your body type. If you or your partner is over 6 feet tall, you may prefer the extra 10 cm in length that comes with the California King. However, if you want to relax while sleeping, you might prefer the large open space of a king bed. Either way, it’s all about getting the good rest you deserve.

Ease of Transport/Installation

Before buying a bed you have to carefully measure your bedroom dimensions, the entryway of your home, and any stairs and doorways you may require passing through.

Ease of TransportInstallation

As you know king and California king beds are difficult to move, yet there are exclusive considerations for both mattresses. Because of the added length, the Cal King mattresses are more difficult around stairs and tight corners, while the added width of the Standard Kings gives them a tighter fit through doors.

California King Mattress Vs King – FAQs

Which is better King or Cal King?
Both California King Beds and Regular King Beds are good options for couples and families, but your personal needs will dictate which one is best for you. If length over width is important to you, opt for a California king-size bed. If you need more width than length, go for a standard king.
Can a king mattress fit on a California king bed frame?
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Can I have a king or a California king size mattress delivered?
Yes, most mattress manufacturers ship your king and California king mattresses right to your door. You can also see many sizes of these mattress options on Amazon. You can even add the white glove delivery where the delivery team will prepare your new mattress and pick up the old one.

 

Conclusion

Both the King and California King mattresses are large beds that work well in a master bedroom. A King Size is wider while a California King is longer.

King sizes are the most popular choice, but which mattress is best for you will depend on your sleeping needs. If you want some space to yourself while sharing the bed, a king-size mattress might be the smart choice. Legroom, you should opt for a California king-size mattress.

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