Best King Size Mattresses

Written by Loren Bullock, Certified Sleep Science Coach

Methodology

Here at Mattress Nerd, we’ve tested hundreds of mattresses to bring you unbiased, expert reviews of the top brands. Learn more.

In This Article

We’ll tell you all about the King size mattress options, perfect for those looking for a bit more space to stretch out and relax. Then, we’ll provide tips specific to King-mattress shoppers in our comprehensive buyer’s guide.

»

King size mattresses are the go-to solution for couples who want to share their bed without crowding each other. They’re spacious, kid- and pet-friendly, and widely available from most mattress brands. But with that extra space comes a heftier price tag. Thankfully, the emergence of online direct-to-consumer mattress brands have made King size mattresses available at lower prices.

If you’ve already made the decision to invest in a King size bed, the next question is—which is the best mattress for you? In this review, we’re sharing our top 10 picks for King size mattresses so you can feel confident in your purchase. You’ll also find a shoppers’ guide for buying your next King mattress, including what to look for, the size’s pros and cons, who they’re best for, and the different types available online.

Bottom Line: What’s the Best King Size Mattress

Mattress Nerd’s team of expert testers has named the Saatva mattress the best overall King size mattress thanks to its great value and high durability score that indicates reliable structural integrity and longevity.

Top Best King Size Mattresses of 2023

• Saatva Classic – Best Innerspring King Mattress 
• DreamCloud – Best King Mattress for Combo Sleepers
• Helix Midnight – Best King Mattress for Pressure Relief
• Nolah Evolution – Best Luxury King Mattress
• WinkBed – Best Bed-in-a-Box King Mattress
• Emma Original – Best Affordable King Size Mattress
• Titan Plus – Best King Mattress for Back Sleepers
• Bear Hybrid – Best King Mattress for Athletes 
• Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe – Best King Mattress with Multiple Firmness Options
  
• Puffy Mattress – Best Memory Foam King Size Mattress

Chosen by Experts and Advocates

When putting together this list of best King size mattresses, our team considered overall quality, as well as accommodation of couples and larger sleepers.

Good scores in motion isolation, ease of movement, durability, and other performance factors point towards a bed that will hold up well under a lot of weight and allow couples to sleep more comfortably. To learn more, check out our review process.

Best King Size Mattresses: Video

Tag along as mattress experts Loren, Becca, and Corey walk you through our picks for the best King size mattresses on the market.

Saatva Classic – Best Innerspring Mattress

Pros of the Saatva Classic

• Great for all types of back sleepers
• Performs well for most stomach sleepers
• Very breathable, making it easier to sleep cool

Cons of the Saatva Classic

• Not the best for pressure relief
• Doesn’t isolate motion as well as we’d like

What our testers say: “The Saatva sleeps exceptionally cool, is excellent for people with back pain, and has sturdy edges thanks to its innerspring construction. It’s one of my favorite mattresses that I’ve tested.” Loren, Lead Mattress Tester

I guess you could call the Saatva Classic the king of innerspring King size mattresses. It’s a traditional innerspring mattress that’s big on both comfort and support. Additionally, the Saatva’s customizability makes you feel like royalty. You can choose from the following firmness options: Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm. 

The Saatva contains a low-gauge Bonnell coil support system, which is a fancy way of saying its coils will keep you stable and lifted on top of the mattress, allowing ease of movement. These coils can withstand high levels of compression without shifting. Not only that, but the Saatva is topped with a plush pillow top layer that provides more added comfort than you’ll find in most innerspring options. As such, the Saatva takes from the best of both worlds: it has the support, response, and durability of an innerspring mattress, but also the conforming pressure relief of foam or hybrid mattresses. Though it’s responsive and bouncy as an innerspring, we think that it does a good job at absorbing motion, so neither you nor your partner should feel each other move around during the night.

Saatva prices their mattresses on the higher end of the scale, but the quality materials, construction, and customer experience are nothing short of luxurious. Buying the Saatva Classic in a King size maximizes the surface area of this luxury, and we think you’ll want as much of it as you can get.

Read our full Saatva mattress review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the Saatva mattress, check out our list of the best innerspring mattresses for more great options.

DreamCloud – Best King Mattress for Combination Sleepers

Pros of the DreamCloud Mattress

• Earned a 4 out of 5 or above on all of our lab tests
• Supports and comforts back sleepers of all sizes
• Comes with a lifetime warranty

Cons of the DreamCloud Mattress

• Doesn’t perform well for most side sleepers
• Heavyweight (over 230 lbs) stomach sleepers won’t get enough support

What our testers say: “The DreamCloud is a responsive mattress, thanks to its base layer of pocketed coils. That means we were able to move around on the mattress without feeling like we were sinking into a pit of quicksand.” Becca, Editor & Mattress Tester

With one look at the DreamCloud mattress, it’s evident that the bed is built for a King: pun intended! Back and stomach combination sleepers should feel comfortable on the DreamCloud mattress because of its medium-firm feel. This creates a balance between comfort and support that’s ideal for these sleeping positions. Additionally, this mattress has a perfect 5/5 score for responsiveness, so combination sleepers should be able to change positions without sinking too much into the bed. 

While some side sleepers might not find the bed to be soft enough for their liking, hot sleepers should appreciate the bed’s thick layer of breathable coils. The mattress also features gel-infused foam, which should relieve pressure and keep you from overheating at night. 

In terms of the qualities we like to see in a King mattress, our testing results showed that not only is the mattress durable, but it could even last you up to a decade. Additionally, we think there’s a lot of strength in the DreamCloud motion isolation capabilities, so you and your partner shouldn’t disturb each other while moving around in the middle of the night. With a generous 365-day trial and a lifetime warranty to top it off, what’s not to love?

See our full DreamCloud Mattress Review to learn more. Still unsure about the DreamCloud Mattress? Check out the best mattresses for combination sleepers to get your perfect night’s sleep.

Helix Midnight – Best King Mattress for Pressure Relief

Pros of the Helix Midnight

• Great motion isolation makes sleeping with a partner a breeze
• Accommodates side sleepers regardless of body type
• High durability means you can rely on this mattress for many years

Cons of the Helix Midnight

• Combo sleepers might find it difficult to switch positions
• It’s not the best for heavy back or stomach sleepers

What our testers say: “According to our pressure mapping lab test, the Midnight is pressure-relieving enough for most folks with joint pain to sleep comfortably. I feel this is especially true if you sleep on your side.” Loren, Lead Mattress Tester

If you’re looking for a mattress that relieves pressure along sensitive parts of the body, the Helix Midnight might just fit the bill—and at a reasonable price. As the best-selling mattress in the Helix line, the Helix Midnight is a medium-firm mattress that’s great for lightweight and average-weight side sleepers wanting extra pressure relief and weight distribution. The top layers of the mattress are made from Helix’s Memory Plus foam and responsive transition foam. These two layers work in tandem to help relieve pressure buildup. A robust layer of individually wrapped coils makes up the base of the mattress, keeping sleepers from sinking too far into the comfort materials above. 

The mattress didn’t score well on its responsiveness, because it’s built for pressure relief and contouring more than ease of movement. However, it’s still a solid choice for couples because of its durability and motion isolation. Hybrid mattresses are built to be a long-lasting investment, and the Midnight is no exception. It also scored well on our motion isolation test.

If you have an eye for luxury, you should consider taking a look at the upgraded version of the Helix Midnight: the Helix Midnight Luxe. The Luxe adds extra layers of foam for added support and comfort. That said, we find the standard Helix Midnight to be an excellent mattress for pressure relief at a more accessible price point. 

See our full Helix Midnight Mattress Review to learn more.

Nolah Evolution – Best Luxury King Mattress

Pros of the Nolah Evolution

• Earned a perfect score on our temperature-regulation test
• Performs well for all types of lightweight (under 130 lbs) sleeper
• Great structural integrity and durability

Cons of the Nolah Evolution

• Quite expensive
• Not the best option for heavyweight (over 230 lbs) sleepers

What our testers say: “If you’re looking for a cooling hybrid with a balanced feel of comfort, support, and hotel-like quality, the Nolah Evolution 15” mattress could be a great option for you. While not cheap, you’ll get all the bells and whistles that you’d expect with a luxury mattress.” Loren, Lead Mattress Tester

With a purchase like a King size mattress, why not spend a little bit extra to ensure you’re getting the best of the best? The King sized Nolah Evolution delivers dependable comfort, support, and above all, luxury. 

The $2,000+ price tag of this mattress may give you pause at first, but the steep cost makes sense when you consider the quality of construction and materials. With layers of proprietary foam, a base of HDMax Eco support coils and orthopedic support foam, and a reinforced perimeter, the hybrid build of this mattress provides that hotel-bed feel that so many people love.  

Plus, since the Nolah Evolution scored so high on our durability (5/5), motion isolation (4/5), and temperature control (4/5) tests, you can share your King mattress with a partner and not worry about damaging its structural integrity, disturbing one another, or overheating. The icing on the King sized cake? The Nolah Evolution comes with a lifetime warranty, so you can rest assured that the company stands behind the caliber of their product.

See our full Nolah Evolution mattress review to learn more. If you don’t think the Cocoon Chill is the best value mattress for you, check out the best luxury mattresses to find your best fit.  

WinkBed – Best King Size Bed-in-a-Box Mattress

Pros of the WinkBed Mattress

•  Fantastic breathability and temperature regulation
• Great for sleepers who toss and turn
• Works well for all sleeping positions and body types

Cons of the WinkBed Mattress

• Not the best option for couples who disturb easily
• Pressure relief leaves something to be desired

What our testers say: “I know durability is often a concern of shoppers who learn that their bed comes compressed in a small box. Well, with the WinkBed you can put your worries aside. Through our lab tests I found this to be an exceptionally durable mattress.” Loren, Lead Mattress Tester

We’re still blown away by the fact that companies can fit a massive King size mattress into a tiny, manageable box. Cutting those boxes open in our mattress lab and watching the full product expand to its final form never gets old. Honestly, that experience alone is worth the price of the product. We think its durability also makes it a long-lasting investment. If you’re willing to spend, then we recommend you check out the WinkBed mattress. 

The WinkBed mattress is our top pick for the best King size bed-in-a-box. It measures a mighty 14 inches from base to cover, and contains a gel-infused cooling layer along with a coil base layer. It features a hybrid construction that has more of a traditional innerspring mattress feel, while still providing a good amount of cushion throughout its memory foam layers. 

Regardless of which position you sleep in, the WinkBed has you covered. There are multiple firmness options: sleepers can go with the softer option for maximum comfort, and for back and stomach sleepers (who need extra support) there are the luxury firm and firm versions. It’s also one of our best mattresses for couples. Although we did see quite a bit of motion transfer, the WinkBed has excellent edge support, responsiveness for ease of movement, and cooling properties. Its breathable foam and coil design allows for sufficient airflow that will keep you cool throughout the night.

See our full Winkbed Mattress Review to learn more! If you’re still searching for your perfect mattress check out our other options for best bed-in-a-box.

Emma Original – Best Affordable King Size Mattress

Pros of the Emma

• Great for back sleepers
• Good motion isolation (important for couples)
• Easy to move around on

Cons of the Emma

• Not great for side sleepers
• Relatively low durability

What our testers say: “The Emma Original has the benefits of a foam mattress, while also being exceptionally responsive and lifted. This bed is great for back sleepers, couples, and combination sleepers, and won’t put too much strain on your wallet.” Ashton, Editor & Mattress Tester

Since you’ve already committed to buying a King size mattress, you might be expecting to drop quite a bit of cash. Well, we have some good news for you. The Emma Original Mattress is a great King size option for a pretty affordable price, and while it might save you some money you won’t be sacrificing quality as a result.

Made with three layers of foam, the Emma Original delivers the classic memory-foam feel that so many sleepers love. Unlike other memory foam mattresses, however, the Emma doesn’t ‘trap’ sleepers in its dense layers. Instead, moving around and switching positions on this mattress is a breeze.

If you happen to be a back sleeper then the Emma Original should definitely be at the top of your list. All of our mattresses testers—small, medium, and large—found the Emma to be exceptionally comfortable for folks who sleep on their back.

See our full Emma Original Mattress Review to learn more! Not sure this mattress is for you? Check out our list of the best affordable mattresses for more great options.

Titan Plus – Best King Size Mattress for Back Sleepers

Pros of the Titan Plus

• Great for all types of heavyweight (over 230 lbs) sleeper
• Relatively affordable for the quality
• Solid ease-of-movement makes it a good option for combo sleepers

Cons of the Titan Plus

• Not great for couples
• Too firm for some side sleepers

What our testers say: “The best mattresses for back sleepers support their backs, necks, legs, and hips. Based on our tests, we can confidently say that the Titan Plus provides adequate support to accommodate all types of back sleepers, especially average-weight and heavyweight ones.” Becca, Editor & Mattress Tester

It’s true that back sleepers tend to have the easiest time finding a comfortable mattress, but that doesn’t mean any old mattress will provide you with a great night’s sleep. You still need to make sure you find something with that middle-of-the-road firmness, providing the perfect amount of sinkage and support. The Titan Plus is our top choice if you’re a back sleeper looking for your dream King mattress. 

While the Titan Plus is made for heavyweight sleepers (over 230 lbs) it excels at providing comfort to all body types, particularly if you sleep on your back. The combination of comfort layers and individually wrapped coils make for a feel that’s not-too-firm and not-too-soft—perfect for back sleepers no matter your size.

If you plan on sharing your King mattress with a partner, the Titan’s average motion isolation might leave you wanting more, but if you’re both heavy sleepers then this won’t be a problem for you.

See our full Titan Plus Mattress Review to learn more. Not sure the Titan Plus suits your needs? Check out other great options for the best mattresses for back sleepers.

Bear Star Hybrid – Best King Mattress for Athletes

Pros of the Bear Star Hybrid

• Very good option for back sleepers
• Couples will appreciate the motion isolation 
• Solid temperature regulation keeps things cool at night

Cons of the Bear Star Hybrid

• Doesn’t provide the best pressure relief
• Not a great option for side sleepers

What our testers say: “I dug into the Bear Star Hybrid’s construction and took a look at the recovery-promoting materials myself. As advertised, their cooling technology does seem pretty effective, and the comfort and support the mattress provides is definitely a plus for athletes.” Ashton, Editor & Mattress Tester

Bear mattresses are made with athletes in mind. If you’re looking for a King mattress to aid in your recovery and help you get an excellent night’s sleep before a big competition, be sure to check out the Bear Hybrid. It boasts a feel that’s both pressure-relieving and responsive, making it ideal for back sleepers of all body types, lightweight to average-weight stomach sleepers, and combination sleepers. Side sleepers will want a softer mattress.

With the Bear Hybrid’s focus on athletes comes a number of features relevant to rest and recovery. Hot sleepers should fall in love with the mattress’s two cooling layers. The Celliant fiber top and the gel-infused foam assist with breathability. It’s important to note that the hand-quilted Celliant fiber top is designed to increase oxygenation and assist with muscle recovery through the night.

Athletes who sleep with a partner should also enjoy the Bear Hybrid. While many hybrids struggle to score high in motion isolation, the Bear Hybrid absorbs motion well. So, partners shouldn’t disturb each other while tossing and turning at night. This bed is great for couples because of its excellent edge support, meaning you should be able to utilize the full surface area of the mattress. As an added bonus, the great edge support is an indicator of durability. 

See our full Bear Hybrid Mattress Review to learn more. Looking for other options to get a cooler night sleep? Check out the best mattresses for athletes.

Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe: Best for Multiple Firmness Options

Pros of the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe

• Very easy to switch positions on
• Kept us very cool throughout the testing process
• Solid durability

Cons of the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe

• Not the best at relieving pressure
• Doesn’t isolate motion all that well

What our testers say: “Customizability is always a plus, as far as I’m concerned. With three firmness levels, the Aurora Luxe is compatible with most sleeping positions and body types. The medium version is best for back sleepers, stomach sleepers under 230 lbs, and side sleepers over 230 lbs.” Loren, Lead Mattress Tester

The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe mattress comes in three firmness levels: soft (5/10), medium (6.5/10), and firm (8/10). With multiple firmness options, it accommodates most sleepers regardless of their sleep position. Additionally, the different firmness options can cater to different body types.

Based on our lab results with the medium version, we feel we have some good recommendations in terms of which mattress to choose based on one’s sleep position and body type. Combination sleepers should do well on this mattress because it tested high for responsiveness, meaning that the Aurora Luxe should allow for ease of movement. Also, our team thinks the medium and firm versions of this mattress should be great for back sleepers of all weights. As for side sleepers, we recommend that light and average weight sleepers opt for the soft bed, and heavier sleepers test out the medium bed. Finally, since stomach sleepers require a mattress with more support, we suggest that light and average-weight sleepers stick with the medium mattress, while heavier sleepers might be better off with the firm mattress.

As for couples, if you sleep with a partner who wakes up easily, the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe‘s motion isolation might not be for you. However, it is an extremely durable mattress with over 1,000 pocketed coils, and should last between seven and 10 years. While it’s up to you to decide which firmness option is best, that’s part of the beauty in having multiple firmness options. It can give a more personalized experience, and a better sleep. Who wouldn’t want that?

Read our in-depth Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe mattress review to learn more.

Puffy – Best Memory Foam King Size Mattress

Pros of the Puffy

• Wonderful for lightweight (less than 130 lbs) side sleepers
• Relatively affordable
• Good pressure relief

Cons of the Puffy

• Poor temperature regulation
• Bad for heavyweight (over 230 lbs) sleepers

What our testers say: “The Puffy has a balanced yet responsive foam feel. This makes the bed easy to move around on, meaning it’s a good choice for combination sleepers who move around at night. With a three-layer foam construction, you’ll get a soft and supportive feel rather than feeling “stuck” in the mattress.” Rachael Harris, Editor & Mattress Tester

A memory foam mattress provides a unique feeling that deviates from the springiness of a traditional innerspring or hybrid mattress. Some have described it as feeling like the mattress is giving you a hug. If this is appealing to you then we would recommend you check out the Puffy mattress. 

Coming in at under $2,000 for a King, the Puffy provides impressive comfort at a reasonable price. Plus, with pretty solid responsiveness this mattress is easy to move around on, meaning that if you tend to toss and turn throughout the night this is a good option for you. 

See our full Puffy Mattress Review to learn more! Not sure this mattress is for you? Check out our list of the best memory foam mattresses for more great options.

King Size Mattress Considerations

Here’s an overview of purchasing considerations and factors when buying a King size mattress:

• Sleeping position—Different positions have different support requirements, so the best King mattress will depend on whether you’re a side, back, stomach, or combination sleeper.  
• Weight—Heavier sleepers not only tend to sleep hotter, but they experience more sinkage. So, a medium-firm mattress may feel soft to a heavyweight or tall individual. Similarly, lightweight or petite individuals who desire firm beds may find their match in mattresses that feel soft to most sleepers. For some more options, check out our pages on best firm mattresses and best soft mattresses.
• Pressure Relief—You’ll want to look for a mattress that relieves pressure for your specific sleeping position. Some products do a better job of preventing aches and pains in lightweight stomach sleepers, others excel at accommodating heavy side sleepers. If we award a mattress a perfect score of 5/5 in pressure relief, it usually means that it works for the majority of sleepers.  
• Temperature—Do you sleep cool or hot? All-foam mattresses tend to sleep hotter, although recent advancements have improved airflow and made mattresses more breathable. If temperature regulation is important, consider a hybrid or innerspring King size mattress or an all-foam variety with dedicated cooling properties. Check out our best cooling mattresses article for more information.
• Material—The bulk of mattresses on the market are innerspring, foam, latex, or hybrid styles. Each material has its own benefits and drawbacks, and they vary in cost, durability, and more. 
• Firmness—While there’s no standardized firmness scale across the industry, mattresses range from 1–10 in firmness, with one being extra soft and 10 being extra firm. Your weight and sleeping position have the biggest impact on the firmness that feels best to you and supports proper spinal alignment. Our mattress firmness guide is a great resource if you’d like to learn more.
• Thickness—Most mattresses measure 10″ in thickness, but luxury and thick options can measure 15″ or more. 
• Budget—Mattresses vary dramatically in price based on the quality of materials used, the make, the manufacturer, and other costs, like delivery fees. Budget mattresses can cost just a couple hundred dollars, whereas luxury King size mattresses can cost $2,000 or more. 
• Performance factors—Consideration of a King-size mattress’ performance will give you a well-rounded perspective on the product’s pros and cons. Take note of properties like durability (how long it will last), motion isolation, pressure relief, temperature, off-gassing, and edge support.
• Noise—If you sleep with a partner, a noisy mattress can be a real annoyance. Even the slightest movement can cause a creak or groan that makes it difficult to sleep peacefully. Memory foam tends to do a good job of suppressing noise, though a hybrid mattress with enough comfort layers can also do a good job of staying quiet.
• Policies—Third-party retailer and mattress company policies—such as shipping, warranties, returns, and trial periods—can greatly impact customer satisfaction and experience, especially if you’ll be shopping for your King size mattress online. Make sure you’re comfortable with the level of protection for the investment you’re making and with the trial and return policies, just in case you’re not happy with your purchase. Be aware that failing to use proper foundation, box spring, or bed frame can void your warranty. 
• Mattress weight—By nature of their size, King mattresses tend to be heavier and bulkier. You may need help setting up your mattress.
• Durability—Durability is key for King size mattresses, which often support the weight of two individuals night in and night out. Research and read reviews about the mattress’ longevity, looking for answers to questions like, “Does the mattress sag over time?” and “How’s the edge support?”

Who Is a King Mattress Best For?

Couples: Some couples snuggle up real close when they sleep; some couples like to preserve their personal space. Whether it’s because you or your partner easily overheat, or because one or both of you don’t like to be touched in your sleep, the extra foot of room makes it easier for couples to sleep exactly how they want to. Want more info on sleeping with a partner? Check out our couples sleep guide.

People with Pets and Kids: Having pets or children means that you may have to share your bed from time to time. Although they might be smaller than you, kids, cats, and dogs can take up a considerable amount of space, making your sleep situation less comfortable. A King size bed provides more surface area, meaning more room for everyone to relax.

Individuals Seeking More Space: Most individuals opt for a Queen mattress, as it provides substantial surface area for one person. If you’re one of those people who loves to spread out and not be anywhere near the edge of the bed, a King size mattress might be more to your liking.

Those with Large Bedrooms: Room size becomes a major factor when shoppers realize that a King is more than a foot wider than a Queen. Leaving two feet of space on three sides of your room is recommended by interior designers, but that’s the minimum. If you want to include a wardrobe, nightstands, and other pieces, you’ll need more room. The opposite is also true. If you have a large bedroom, then a Queen may not look proportional, and so a King would be more appropriate. 

Long Haul Mattress Shoppers: Do you hope for your next mattress to be a part of your home for a long, long time? If even a small part of you thinks that you may want a King instead of a Queen several years down the road, then it may be in your best interest to purchase a King size mattress now.

King vs. Queen Mattresses

If you’re shopping for a King size mattress, you’ve probably also weighed the option of buying a Queen instead. Queen mattresses are more affordable, and if you’re a single person with an average body type, they likely provide enough space for you to be comfortable. That said, there are plenty of reasons why a King might be the right choice for you.

Most importantly, you’ll have more room on a King. A standard King mattress measures 76” x 80”, which is 16” wider than the queen’s 60” x 80” measurements. Whether it’s just you, you and a partner, or you and a pet, this extra 16″ will come in handy if you like to spread out, move around a lot, or even get some space between you and your partner.

A Queen does have it benefits. As mentioned above, they are more affordable. They’re also lighter and easier to move around, flip, or rotate. If you want your next mattress to be something that you spend many, many years on, then a King might be worth it for you. If this is more of a transition mattress, consider a Queen.

For a more comprehensive breakdown of the great King vs. Queen debate, take a look at our article on King vs. Queen size mattresses, or head over to our mattress size guide.

King vs. California King Mattress

The only difference between a California King and a standard/eastern king is in the width and length. A King mattress measures 80” long by 76″ wide, while a California King measures 84″ long by 72″ wide. So, your decision will come down to where you want your extra surface space: in width or in length.

A California King will do well for tall individuals who need those extra few inches to comfortably stretch their legs out, while a standard King has the extra width that allows couples to spread out and occupy their own, dedicated sides of the bed. 

California Kings and regular Kings usually go for the same price, so the only thing you need to figure out is which best suits your sleeping situation.

For more information, check out our article on California King vs Standard King mattresses.

Types of King Size Mattresses 

A bigger mattress can solve issues of disturbances like snoring, turning, tossing, and cover-stealing from a partner. If you’ve decided that a King bed is what you need, you’ll need to decide on the exact type of mattress you’re after. Here are the details and dimensions of the most common King size mattresses.

King

A traditional King Size mattress is one size larger than a Queen. The term King size refers to the standard of this size mattress which provides sleepers with an additional 16″ of width. Standard King Size mattresses come in a measurement of 76″ X 80″ and is great for sleepers who are looking for that extra space when it comes to sleep.

Eastern King

An Eastern King is simply a synonym for a standard King, and it also measures 76″ x 80.”  You probably won’t see a mattress referred to as “Eastern King” too often. If you do, you can think of it as a regular King.

Split King

A Split King, otherwise known as a Dual King mattress, comes in two pieces rather than one. Each piece is roughly the same size as a Twin mattress. Creating a King bed out of two separate mattresses allows each partner to customize their firmness level or position (with an adjustable base), while still sharing closeness with their partner.

Pros & Cons of King Mattresses

Pros of a King Mattress

• More space — King mattresses are 16” wider than Queens, meaning you’ll have a lot more space to spread out.
• Less tossing and turning — The extra space makes it much easier to sleep soundly.
• Proper sleeping positions — Smaller surface areas can make it difficult to comfortably settle into your sleeping position.
• Kid- and dog-friendly — There’s plenty of room for pets and people alike on a King mattress.

Cons of a King Mattress

• Bulkier — If you have a small bedroom, a King mattress may take up an inconvenient amount of space.
• Can be heavy and hard to move — Moving or rotating a King size mattress alone can be very difficult.
• More expensive — King beds generally cost several hundred dollars more than a Queen.

Mattress Materials & Considerations

If you’ve chosen to purchase a King size mattress, the final step before choosing a brand will be to determine which mattress materials best suit your sleep preferences and needs.

King Size Memory Foam Mattresses

Memory foam’s contouring ability is generally unmatched in the mattress world. The layers of foam react to your body and cradle all of the sensitive pressure points, like hips and shoulders. These foam layers also isolate motion really well, meaning late night movements won’t transfer to your partner’s side of your King size bed.

King Size Innerspring Mattresses

Innerspring mattresses have two big things going for them: breathability and responsiveness. Constructed without thick layers of foam or latex, these beds have excellent air flow. Responsiveness refers to how easy a bed is to move around on, and if you’ve ever bounced around on a steel coil bed, then you know how springy they can be. If you tend to sleep hot or switch positions often, then an innerspring King mattress may be right for you.

King Size Latex Mattresses

Latex Kings offer comfort, support, and peace of mind. What do we mean by that? Well, many latex mattresses are manufactured with the environment in mind. The best way to tell whether or not a mattress brand uses sustainable processes and materials is to take a look at their certifications. The Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) and OEKO-TEX Standard 100 are good indicators of a product that is earth-friendly.

King Size Hybrid Mattresses

These mattresses are very interesting, because they combine elements from the three mattress types that we’ve already covered. Built with a support layer of springs and top layers of either memory or latex foam, the best hybrid mattresses offer the breathability and responsiveness of innerspring, along with the comfort and pressure relief of memory foam or latex. 

King Size Smart Beds

At last, we arrive at smart beds. Smart beds utilize air chambers to provide a customized sleep experience. Adding or removing air from a smart bed adjusts the overall firmness, so you can truly cater these beds to your needs. They’re generally more expensive than a regular mattress, but the customizability is unmatched.

Sleeping Positions

Whether you’re a back, side, stomach, or combination sleeper, a King size mattress will provide you with the freedom to orient yourself in any way that you desire. That said, you’ll need to pick a King size mattress that accommodates your preferred sleeping position.

Side Sleepers: Conforming mattresses tend to be the best beds for side sleepers. This means you will want to look at memory foam mattresses or softer hybrid mattresses.

Back Sleepers: The best mattresses for back sleepers will be around the middle of the firmness scale. A good, medium-firm King mattress will allow your hips and shoulder to sink in just enough when you lie on your back, and it will keep you spine aligned to it’s natural curve. Consider a hybrid mattress with a substantial comfort layer to get the perfect middle ground between firm and soft.

Stomach Sleepers: A good mattress for stomach sleepers is one that sits towards the top of the firmness scale. When you’re sleeping on your stomach, you don’t want you hips to sink too far below the surface; if they do, your spine might be thrown out of alignment. A good firm mattress will keep everything where it’s supposed to be.

Combination Sleepers: The top priority for combination sleepers is responsiveness. A mattress with hight responsiveness will make it easier for you to switch position and settle into new one’s quickly. Check out our list of the best mattresses for combination sleepers to learn more.

Best King Size Mattress FAQ

How thick should a King size mattress be?

Most mattresses fall between eight and 13 inches in thickness, and King beds are no exception. If you’re after something with good durability, you’ll want a mattress closer to 13 inches in thickness, though you’ll likely have to spend more money.

Who is a King mattress best for?

A King size mattress is good for couples because it provides lots of room for them to spread out. Those with larger bedrooms and those looking for a long haul mattresses should also prefer a King.

How often should I replace my mattress?

It’s recommended that you replace your mattress every seven years, but this number can change depending on the quality of the product and how well you take care of it. Some mattresses can maintain their quality for ten years or even longer. For more information, head over to our article, “How Often Should You Replace Your Mattress?”

What is the difference between a king and queen size mattress?

Queen size mattresses and king size mattresses are approximately the same height and length, but they are different widths. A standard King mattress measures 76” x 80”, which is 16” wider than the queen’s 60” x 80” measurements. Queen mattresses are more affordable. If you’re a single person with an average body type, they likely provide enough space for you to be comfortable.

Do all King size mattresses get a ridge in the middle?

It depends. That hump, also known as a king’s ridge, develops due to uneven weight distribution on your mattress. If you’re trying to fix it, we suggest you use a mattress topper. Not only will it help reduce the ridge, it will also add some comfort to your mattress. If you’re trying to prevent the hump from forming, make sure that you regularly rotate your mattress, and try sleeping closer to the center of the bed.

How big is a King size mattress?

In most cases, a king size mattress is 76″ wide x 80″ long.

How much does a good King mattress cost?

You won’t find many King size mattresses for under $1,000, and many of the hybrid, hotel-quality Kings that incorporate superior materials into their construction will cost you $2,000 or more. Before you start your shopping journey, identify the absolute most you’re willing to pay for your mattress. Then, read plenty of reviews featuring products in your price range. Before you know it you’ll find your perfect mattress.

Are King size mattresses better for couples and pet owners?

In terms of space, absolutely. King mattresses provide lots of room for couples to spread out, and even furry friends have the space to join. That said, if you sleep with a partner or pet, you’ll also want to pay attention to how well a mattress isolates motion. Thicker comfort layers help isolate motion, so you don’t feel your partner or pet moving around at night.

Recap of the Top Rated King Size Mattresses

Saatva Classic	Best Innerspring King Mattress
DreamCloud Latex Hybrid	Best King Mattress for Combo Sleepers
Helix Midnight	Best King Mattress for Pressure Relief
Nolah Evolution	Best Luxury King Mattress
WinkBed	Best Bed-In-a-Box King Mattress
Emma Original	Best Affordable King Size Mattress
Titan Plus	Best King Mattress for Back Sleepers
Bear Hybrid	Best King Mattress for Athletes
Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe	Best King Mattress with Multiple Firmness Options
Puffy Mattress	Best Memory Foam King Size Mattress

Loren Bullock

Editor & Mattress and Bedding Expert

About Author

Loren is the Lead Mattress Reviewer at Mattress Nerd. She has prioritized sleeping for as long as she can remember, rarely deviating from seven to nine hours each night. As an editor on Mattress Nerd and a Certified Sleep Science Coach, Loren aims to help people achieve optimal sleep health and pick the best sleep accessories for their needs. You can find her testing mattresses, exploring the best sleep hacks, and telling you about her findings on Mattress Nerd’s YouTube channel and on TikTok.

Education and Credentials:

• Certified Sleep Science Coach

Sleeper Type

Combination Sleeper