King Bed vs Queen Bed: Which Should You Buy?

King and queen-size mattresses are among the most popular options for couples. Their main difference in the outlook lies in width. The king offers an extra 16 inches of width than the queen and is, therefore, able to provide more space for including the kids. 

Queen bed

The standard size of a queen bed is 60 inches by 80 inches. In other words, it’s 5-feet by 6-feet and 8-inches. When you add the typical bed frame, it’s between 5-feet by 7-feet in total. It’s double the size of a full-size bed but one size smaller than a king-sized bed.

King bed

A king bed’s average size is 76 inches by 80 inches, or 6.5-feet 4-inches by 6-feet, 8-inches. While both the queen and king beds are the same in length, the width is what distinguishes the two. The king bed is over a foot wider than the queen-sized option.

There are a host of other factors that need to be considered when deciding between a queen and king-size mattress.

Which size is best for you?

Both king and queen-sized beds are great options for couples and families. In choosing between the two, here are a few things to keep in mind.

Sleeping partner

Who do you share your bed with? Most couples will be comfortable sharing a queen, but those who want more space may wish to upgrade to a king. Couples sharing a bed with children and/or pets will want to choose a king to ensure enough space.

The number of sleepers using the bed is a critical factor when deciding on the size of a mattress. If you’re looking for the best mattress for couples, you can’t go wrong with either a queen or a king; however, kings provide each partner with 8 inches of extra space, and can also accommodate children and pets if they want to snuggle with their parents.

In a queen size, each partner will have 30 inches, compared to 38 inches in king size. The queen is also a popular choice among single sleepers who like to stretch out in bed. The queen may be good for both individuals as well as couples who like to sleep close. But realistically, there’s no room for children if they want to snuggle with their parents.

Your size, weight, and sleeping position 

The physical size of you and your partner, as well as your preference in sleeping position, will also influence the choice of queen vs king. Physically larger couples may want to spring for a king-sized bed. Very tall individuals may wish to choose a California king, which has more legroom than a standard queen or king. And in general, back and stomach sleepers tend to prefer a bit more space around them, compared to side sleepers.

Budget 

What is your budget for a new mattress? King beds will always cost at least $100-$300+ more than a queen of the same brand and model. Additionally, bed frames, foundations, bedding, etc. will all be more expensive for the larger king size. If you’re on a tight budget, the queen will likely be your best option.

Mattress price depends on the size and type of mattress you choose, including memory foam, latex, innerspring, and hybrid. A quality, the queen-size mattress may be more expensive than a poorly-made king-size bed, but generally, a king-size will always cost more than a queen.

Bedding accessories may also be more expensive for a king than a queen due to size. For example, a king-size pillow for neck pain is usually larger and therefore costs more than a queen size.

Bedroom size

How large is the room you plan to place the bed in? It’s helpful to measure before purchasing a new bed, to get a feel for how well each size may fit into the space. We generally recommend leaving around 24 inches of space between the bed and each surrounding wall or piece of furniture. At a full 16 inches wider than a queen, a king-size bed can make smaller rooms feel a bit cramped.

The preferred room size for a king-size bed is 12 feet by 12 feet and for queen size is 10 feet by 14 feet. If you want a queen in a big size room, you have enough liberty to add more furniture, but if you want a king in a comparatively smaller-sized room, then you may have to compromise. 

Ease of transport 

King mattresses will be significantly more challenging to move around, compared to queens. A queen bed will fit into truck beds, cargo vans, etc. without much issue, and will also be relatively simple to get up staircases and around tight corners. King mattresses, on the other hand, can pose more challenges for movers. If you’re someone who moves frequently, a queen may be a better choice.

If you move frequently, then it might be better to invest in a queen-size mattress because heavy king-size mattresses are not easy to carry or maneuver. On the other hand, if you are not single and know that you are staying in one place for the foreseeable future, investing in a king-size mattress could be the better choice.

Conclusion

Both king and queen sizes are great options, but if you have a smaller bedroom, choosing a queen bed is better. You have to consider adding nightstands, cabinets in the room and leaving walking spaces. 

However, if you have a large family with cuties, and plan to stay long in this house, a luxury king mattress rewards you in the long term.