Difference Between King And California King Bed
As someone who recently went through the process of buying a new bed, I can attest to the confusion that can arise when it comes to choosing the right size. One of the most common questions I encountered was the difference between a king and a California king bed. After doing some research and experiencing both firsthand, here’s what I found:
What is a King Bed?
A king bed, also known as an Eastern king, is the most common size of mattress in the United States. It measures 76 inches wide by 80 inches long, providing ample space for couples or individuals who like to spread out while sleeping.
What is a California King Bed?
A California king bed, also known as a Western king, is slightly longer and narrower than a standard king bed. It measures 72 inches wide by 84 inches long, making it ideal for taller individuals or those who prefer more length to their bed.
Step by Step Guide for Choosing Between King and California King Bed
- Consider your height: If you’re taller than 6 feet, a California king bed may be a better fit for you.
- Think about your sleeping habits: If you like to spread out while sleeping, a standard king bed may be more comfortable for you.
- Check your room size: Make sure you have enough space for the bed size you choose. A California king bed may be too big for smaller rooms.
- Factor in your budget: A California king bed may be slightly more expensive than a standard king bed due to its size.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Choosing Between King and California King Bed
- Measure your room before making a decision.
- Consider the size of your current bed and whether you want more or less space.
- Think about your sleeping habits and preferences.
- Research different mattress brands and types to find the right fit for you.
- Factor in the cost of bedding and accessories for the larger bed size.
- Test out both sizes in a showroom before making a final decision.
- Consider the overall aesthetic of your room and how the bed will fit in.
- Think about any future moves or changes to your living situation that may affect your bed size needs.
- Read reviews from other customers to get a better sense of what size may work best for you.
- Consult with a sales associate or mattress expert for personalized recommendations.
Pros and Cons of King and California King Bed
King Bed Pros:
- Wider sleeping surface
- More affordable
- Available in a wider range of mattress types and brands
King Bed Cons:
- May be too big for smaller rooms
- May not provide enough length for taller individuals
California King Bed Pros:
- Extra length for taller individuals
- Narrower size may fit better in smaller rooms
California King Bed Cons:
- May be more expensive
- Less common mattress size, limiting options for brands and types
My Personal Review and Suggestion
After considering my height, sleeping habits, and room size, I ultimately chose a California king bed. While it was slightly more expensive than a standard king bed, the extra length made a noticeable difference in my comfort level. I also appreciated the narrower size, which allowed me to fit other furniture pieces in my room without feeling cramped. Overall, I highly recommend considering a California king bed if you’re taller than 6 feet or have a smaller room.
Question & Answer and FAQs
What is the difference between a king and California king bed?
A king bed is 76 inches wide by 80 inches long, while a California king bed is 72 inches wide by 84 inches long.
Which bed size is better for taller individuals?
A California king bed is better for taller individuals, as it provides extra length compared to a standard king bed.
Which bed size is better for smaller rooms?
A standard king bed may be too big for smaller rooms, making a California king bed a better option due to its narrower size.
Are California king beds more expensive than standard king beds?
Yes, California king beds may be slightly more expensive due to their larger size and less common availability compared to standard king beds.