You are not the only one confused about the differences between king mattresses and California king-size bed dimensions. Both are the ‘big’ beds and the most comfortablefor couples. The difference between King and California King is in their lengths, widths, and shapes, all of which affect coziness and room space.
Have you ever purchased a bed that you hit your legs on the edge, or it just wouldn’t fit in the room? Knowing the dimensions of a king size bed, how wide a King size bed is, or how long the California King size bed dimensions are may make all the difference! Getting the wrong bed in your home can ruin your sleep and waste money.
A King mattress is wider, suited for families or couples who require space. On the other hand, a California King is a longer bed mainly suited for taller people. Understanding the difference between King and California King helps you see how a King-size bedcompares to a California King. This way, you will know which will fit best for your requirements and your home’s layout.
Understanding The Basics
Before getting into the details, the most basic definition is to understand the main difference between a King and a California King bed.
● King-size beds have a wider width.
● California King beds are longer.
Either of the two will suit couples as well as an individual who loves to sleep with his or her space, but in the end, the choice will depend on the body size and sleeping habits, and the dimensions of the room.
How Wide Is A King Size Bed?
If you’re wondering how wide is a king size bed is, King-size beds are among the widest beds available.
● Width: 76 inches.
● Length: 80 inches.
Well suited if you toss and turn at night, or if kids and pets invade your space every night.
Dimensions Of A King-Size Bed
● The width is 76 inches.
● Length is 80 inches.
● Total surface area is 6,080 square inches.
This smaller surface area lends itself to two persons sleeping comfortably without a disturbance.
California King Size Bed Dimensions
Now, let’s discuss the California King, also known as the Western King.
● Width: 72 inches.
● Length: 84 inches.
Longer by 4 inches and 4 inches narrower than a King, so it may be highly suitable for tall people.
Dimensions In Detail
● Width: 72 inches.
● Length: 84 inches
● Area Surface: 6,048 square inches.
While you are docked by a mere 4 inches to your width compared to a King, conversely, you earn a good 4 inches in length, and this is the preferred dimension if you are higher than 6 feet.
Difference B/W King & King California?
Here is a brief comparison to help you understand what is the difference between King and California King.
| Feature | King Size | California King Size |
| Width | 76 inches | 72 inches |
| Length | 80 inches | 84 inches |
| Surface Area | 6,080 sq in | 6,048 sq in |
| Best For | Wider rooms, | coupled with Taller people, narrow |
| kids/pets | rooms | |
| Availability | Widely available | Slightly less common |
King Mattresses Vs. California King Mattresses
You will come across both King mattresses and California King mattresses when shopping for a new mattress. Here is what you may consider when choosing the best rated memory foam mattress:
Pros Of King Mattresses:
● Ideal for wider rooms.
● More room to sprawl sideways.
● Great for families or co-sleepers.
Pros Of California King Mattresses:
● Best for taller individuals.
● Fits better in long, narrow bedrooms.
● Slightly easier to fit through tight spaces.
How Is a King Different From a California King as Regards Comfort in The Room?
The other consideration for you involves your height, room size, and sleep postures. If you’re still asking what the difference between King and California King is, consider whether you should be:
● Need extra width, go for a King.
● Need extra length, a California King will suit you better.
Room Space Consideration
Don’t just think about bed size, think about room size too.
Recommended Room Size:
● King Bed: 12 x 12 feet or larger.
● California King: 12 x 14 feet or longer.
If your bedroom is wide, the King bed will fill the space beautifully. If it’s longer than wide, opt for a California King.
Price & Availability
● King-size beds and accessories (sheets, bed frames) are more commonly available.
● California King options might be slightly more expensive and harder to find.
Pro Tip:
Always check the mattress and bedding availability before deciding. Custom-sized sheets for California King can cost more.
Best Rated Memory Foam Mattress (For Both Sizes)
The best memory foam mattress on the market of many.
● High-density foam for support.
● Cooling gel layers.
● Motion isolation for undisturbed sleep.
● 10+ year warranty.
Top brands often offer both King and California King sizes, so you won’t miss out on quality no matter which you choose.
Buying Tips: Which One Should You Choose?
Here are some tips worth considering to understand the difference between a California King and King before making a decision:
Choose King If:
● You want more width.
● You have pets or kids sleeping with you.
● Your room is wide enough to accommodate it.
Choose California King If:
● You’re tall (above 6 feet).
● Your room is longer than it is wide.
● You prefer a sleek, narrower bed.
Final Thoughts
The confusion is clear for some people between a King and a California King bed. The answer is simple: a King mattress is wider while a California King size bed is longer.
Check out factors like length, size of room, and sleeping style before making a choice. Make that wise difference between California King and King and sleep better. Measure smart; sleep better. You know now what King and California King are.
FAQ’s
What Is The Difference Between A Regular King And A California King?
The standard King is primarily wider, while the California King is more on the lengthier end, catering perfectly for taller sleepers.
Do Two Twins Combine To Make a California King?
No, two twin beds are shorter compared to the dimensions of a California King-size bed.
Will A King Mattress Fit A California King Frame?
No, a King-sized mattress is far too wide- it doesn’t sit well on a California King frame.
Will King Sheets Fit On A California King Bed?
King sheets just won’t fit, and the California King mattress is longer and narrower.