California King vs King: What Is the Difference? - Sleep Authority (2024)

When it comes toCalifornia King vs King,people tend to get confused and assume that a California King is bigger than a standard king. However, that’s not it. The differences between the two lies in their dimensions. While standard king bedsmeasure 76 X 80 inches and 6,080 square inches, a California King bed is 72 X 84 inches and the surface area is 6,048 square inches.

If you are on the lookout for a new mattress and are confused between California King bedsand a king, then just keep reading ahead. We bring you everything you need to know about the two!

The basic difference between a standard California king vs King is the width.California King sized beds are 76 inches long but narrower than King, whereas King sized beds are shorter with 72 inches measuring a difference of 4 inches.

Here’s a table added below for your reference to understand the basics of both the mattresses. Have a look.

California King vs King Mattress Comparison

A king size mattress measures 76 X 80 inches. It is exactly equal to two twin XL mattresses put together. Also known as an Eastern King mattress, it is a great option for couples and couples with children or pets. It is one of the largest standard mattress sizesavailable in the market with a total surface area of 6,080 inches.

A king size mattressis a great option for master bedrooms or rooms that measure at least 12 X 10 feet. But, the best room dimensions for a king are 13 X 13 feet. This offers individuals enough space to move around without feeling congested and uplifts the room aesthetically.

Also known as Western King or nicknamed Cal King, a California King mattressmeasures 72 X 84 inches. It is a great choice for taller individuals who are over 6 feet tall. Since it is a narrower option when compared to a king-size bed,it is the second-largestmattress sizeavailable. However, since a Cal King bedis not very wide, it can only fit one or two children along with a couple otherwise, it can become slightly congested.

A Cal King mattressis an ideal choice for large rooms or master bedrooms that measure at least 12 X 12 feet. However, a 14 X 14 feet room is the perfect fit as there will be enough room to move around even after placing the bed.

Now that you are familiar with all the basic information about king and California King mattresses,let’s take a look at all the advantages and drawbacks they offer. This will help you make a better decision.

King

Pros

• It is a great mattress sizefor couples who toss and turn or like to stretch and sleep.
• It is suitable for large bedrooms and also looks aesthetically pleasing.
• The option is easily available in the market.
• You can also find split king mattresses which is ideal for couples with different sleep needs.

Cons

• When compared to a queen, a king bed sizeis slightly expensive.
• If you don’t have large rooms, the regular kingcan feel overcrowded.
• Due to their size and weight, it is not very easy to move them around.

California King

Pros

• It is perfect whotall sleepers.
• The mattress dimensions are ideal for a couple who wants to sleep with their child or pet.
• You will also find a split Cal King mattress, which is ideal for couples with different sleep needs.

Cons

• It is not very easily available.
• A Cal King can be an expensive choice.
• Not very easy to move it around.

Now you know all the pros and cons and the necessary information about a king and a Cal King. So here, we bring you all the other factors you must consider before choosing between a king and a California King mattress.

Room Dimensions

While both king and California King mattressesare ideal for large bedrooms, they each have ideal room dimensions you must consider. While a king seamlessly blends into a 13 X 13 feet room, the ideal choice for a Cal King is 14 X 14 feet.

The thumb rule you need to follow here is to let a minimum of 2 feet of space on all three sides of the mattress. Why? This will make it easier for you to walk and move around in your room without it feeling overcrowded.

However, if you have a smaller bedroom, you can always opt for a queen-size bed, which is again suitable for couples.

Cost

While a king is the largest bed in the market, a Cal King is the second largest. So, they are both expensive choices. But, when it comes to a Cal, it is slightly more expensive because it is a variety that’s not very easily available. Also, you may end up paying more for the accessories as it is not very easy to find them either.

Height

Your height is a crucial deciding factor between a king and a Cal King. If you are someone who is taller than 6 feet then a Cal King is the ideal choice for you, while for people who are under 6 feet, a king is a suitable choice.

Sleeping Partner

Are you someone who loves tossing and turning in their slumber or attempting gymnastic poses? If it’s a yes, a wider option, which is a king-size bed is more suitable for you. However, if you cuddle and sleep, a Cal King is perfect.

Mattress Foundation

When it comes to choosing the ideal mattress foundation, the type of mattress comes into the picture and not the size. However, you will find all the popular mattress foundations for both king and California King easily.

Both king and a California King mattress offer ample space for couples. Now that you are familiar with all the information there is between the two, we hope it’s easier for you to make a decision.

Happy Mattress Shopping!