At a Glance:
Cal King vs King: Mattress Dimensions
How to Measure Your Space for a New Mattress
Comparing King and Cal King Mattresses
7 Featured King and California King Mattresses
Want to sleep like a king? It’s no secret that sleep and mental health are deeply connected. Sleep isn’t just for our bodies—it repairs and restores our brains too. If you’re sleeping in a cramped queen, upgrading to a king or California king mattress might solve your sleep woes. With more space to stretch out, you can rest more comfortably. With more surface area for both partners to have their own space, you’re less likely to disturb each other with movement, shifting positions, or differing sleep schedules. Not only that, but king and Cal king mattresses are ideal for tall individuals and those who tend to feel hot during the night. The larger mattress size typically offers better airflow and heat dissipation, leading to more restful sleep.
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Shop MattressesHere, we’ll compare Cal king vs king mattress dimensions, necessary bedroom dimensions and clearance, and more to help you decide whether or not a king or Cal king mattress might be a game changer for your sleep hygiene.
Cal King vs King: Mattress Dimensions
While queen mattresses may be the most popular and best-selling mattress size, that’s often due to space constraints. Many people want to upgrade to a king or Cal king mattress but aren’t sure whether it will make their room feel cramped.
To know whether or not your bedroom can handle a king or Cal king, it’s best to begin by considering the dimensions of each mattress option. When comparing queen vs king vs Cal king, here’s how the three mattress options measure up:
- Queen mattress dimensions: 60” x 80”
- King mattress dimensions: 76” x 80”
- Cal king mattress dimensions: 72” x 84”
What do these Cal king dimensions vs king really mean? King mattresses are wider and shorter while Cal king mattresses are longer and narrower. It’s a common misconception that Cal king mattresses are larger when, in fact, king mattresses offer roughly 32 square inches more surface area. Often, king and Cal king size mattresses cost the same, so the determining factor isn’t price—it’s about what works best for you and your sleep partner.
→ Learn more: How Much Does a Mattress Cost?
How to Measure Your Space for a New Mattress
Now that you understand Cal king vs king size mattress dimensions, it’s time to consider the layout and dimensions of your bedroom. Your mattress shouldn’t just fit in your room—you need to leave space for easily maneuvering around the room and including other key bedroom furniture pieces like nightstands or dressers. So, how much clearance do you need? In terms of mattress dimensions compared to overall room dimensions, here’s a quick breakdown.
| Mattress Size | Mattress Dimensions | Bedroom Dimensions | Clearance Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| King Mattress | 76” x 80” | Your bedroom should measure about 11’4” to 12’4” wide and 9’2” to 9’8” wide with an area of 119 square feet. | Minimum clearances of 30” or comfortable clearances of 36” around your bed |
| California King Mattress | 72” x 84” | Your bedroom should measure about 11’ to 12’ wide and 9’6” to 10’ deep with an area of 120 square feet. | Minimum clearances of 30” or comfortable clearances of 36” around your bed |
Comparing King and Cal King Mattresses
Comparing the pros and cons of Cal king vs king mattresses is the best way to find out which option is best for you.
Cal King Pros:
✅ Ideal for tall people: The California king mattress is longer and narrower compared to a standard king size, providing extra legroom for taller individuals.
✅ Fits well in narrow spaces: Its narrower width makes it suitable for rooms where a traditional king size might feel too wide.
Cal King Cons:
❌ Limited availability of accessories: Due to its less common size, finding accessories like sheets and bed frames for a Cal king mattress might be more challenging compared to standard sizes like king or queen.
❌ Less space for couples: While it offers more length, it sacrifices width, which may not be ideal for couples who prefer more space to spread out.
Featured California King Mattresses
King Size Pros:
✅ Spacious for couples: The king size mattress offers ample space for couples to sleep comfortably without feeling cramped.
✅ Widely available accessories: Being one of the most common mattress sizes, king size bedding, sheets, and bed frames are readily available in a variety of styles and designs.
King Size Cons:
❌ Might be too large for some rooms: Its generous dimensions can make it difficult to fit in smaller bedrooms or apartments, especially when considering other furniture placement.
❌ Not ideal for tall individuals: While it offers plenty of width, its length may not be sufficient for taller individuals who need more legroom.
Featured King Mattresses
If you’re a tall individual who doesn’t mind being cozy with your sleeping partner, a Cal king mattress is a great option. You might have to search a little more to find the sheets or duvet cover you want, but there are still plenty of options available. On the other hand, if you have a spacious bedroom and you want plenty of room to stretch out, a king mattress will suit you better.
→ Learn more: How Long Does a Mattress Actually Last? Your Questions Answered!
7 Featured King and Cal King Mattresses
Keep reading for our best Cal king vs king picks from Idler’s.
Sierra Sleep by Ashley 10” Hybrid Medium Tight Top Mattress in a Box
Shop this Sierra Sleep by Ashley Mattress
This budget-friendly mattress is available as a king or California king at the same low price. This hybrid, tight top mattress features a medium comfort level. This makes it ideal for side or back sleepers. Several layers of high-density quilt foam, transition foam, high-density gel memory foam, and wrapped coils combine to provide the right balance of comfort and support. Also, if you have an adjustable bed frame, this mattress is a compatible option. That’s great for those with limited mobility or for those who enjoy sitting up in bed to read or watch TV.
Featured Sierra Sleep # M58931 Review:
“This is a very comfortable mattress, and well worth the price!”
Sealy Carrington Chase Clairebrook 12.5” Wrapped Coil Plush Tight Top King Mattress
Available as a king or Cal king, this Sealy mattress is a hybrid option that combines cushioning foam and wrapped coils. With a plush comfort level, it’s ideal for lighter-weight individuals, side sleepers, and those who like the feeling of sinking into a cloud-like mattress. The comfy feel is thanks to the layers SealyComfort Soft Foam and SealyComfort Extra Soft Foam. However, if you’re a stomach or back sleeper, you might want to look elsewhere for more support.
Featured Sealy #52670551 Review:
“I can not really say anything bad about this product. It is a hybrid bed which exactly is what it says in the description. It's not too firm and not too plush making it a happy medium. So far it has held up pretty good in quality. If I had needed another mattress then I would buy again!”
Stearns & Foster Estate Wrapped Coil Firm Euro Pillow Top Queen Mattress
Shop this Stearns & Foster Mattress
This luxurious mattress from Stearns & Foster is a hybrid option with layers of quality materials. For example, it’s topped with a sustainably-sourced TENCEL cover, and it features several TEMPUR-Indulge memory foam comfort layers laid on top of Intellicoil innersprings with PrecisionEdge support. This mattress also includes an AirVent system to keep you cool all night long. In terms of comfort, it is a firm mattress ideal for back and stomach sleepers or heavier side sleepers.
Featured Stearns & Foster #53009551 Review:
“This mattress has exceeded our expectations; it’s very comfortable and gives great support. We recommend it highly.”
Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-ProAdapt 12” TEMPUR-Material Medium Tight Top Mattress
Shop this Tempur-Pedic Mattress
Another luxurious pick, this Tempur-Pedic mattress is a memory foam mattress constructed with layers of innovative materials. The comfort layer is made from Tempur-Pedic’s original TEMPUR Material and is accompanied by the TEMPUR-APR Support Layer for pressure relief and proper alignment. Overall, this medium mattress is ideal for side and back sleepers. It’s a crowd-pleasing option that two sleepers with different needs can both get behind.
Featured Tempur-Pedic #10737150 Review:
“I've had my new mattress for a few weeks now. It is very comfortable and I'm resting better. Great balance of support and softness with the medium.”
→ Learn more: Why the TempurPedic King Mattress Is Worth It
Sierra Sleep by Ashley 12” Hybrid Firm Tight Top California King Mattress in a Box
Shop this Sierra Sleep Mattress
This California king mattress is a mattress-in-a-box with a hybrid construction and firm comfort level. It works well with adjustable bases and is ideal for tall individuals and those with limited mobility. It’s also ideal for back and stomach sleepers who need more support. Layers of high-density gel memory foam, high-density cushion firm foam, high-density base foam, and 823 individually wrapped coils provide an excellent balance between comfort and support.
Featured Sierra Sleep #M62851 Review:
“Amazing quality! Perfectly firm! Love the darker color of the covering material.”
Sealy Posturepedic Plus High Point Hybrid Firm Tight Top Mattress
Sealy’s most premium hybrid offering, this mattress is ideal for hot sleepers. SealyCool Gel Foam will help you feel cool and calm while wrapped coils and memory foam combine to provide pressure relief and support. The firm comfort level makes this ideal for tall individuals, heavier individuals, stomach sleepers, and back sleepers. If you’re a lighter-weight individual or want to feel like you’re sleeping on a cloud, you might want to find a more plush option.
Featured Sealy #52786951 Review:
“I had an adjustable bed for many years and thought it was great, but it also was now old. The first night I slept on this mattress, I knew I'd been wrong. This is the most comfortable, supportive mattress I have ever had, and I love the adjustable head and foot! I haven't slept this well in years! So much so, I'd forgotten what a really good night's sleep felt like.”
Stearns & Foster Lux Estate Wrapped Coil Firm Euro Pillow Top Mattress
Shop this Stearns & Foster Mattress
This mattress offers layers of luxury. Available in both Cal king and king sizes, this Stearns & Foster mattress combines layers of TEMPUR-Indulge memory foam, supportive latex, and Intellicoil innersprings along with a pillow top support layer that features a layer of flexible micro coils, which add support and durability. Overall, this top-of-the-line option is comfortable and supportive with a firm feel that’s ideal for most sleepers.
Featured Stearns & Foster #53019451 Review:
“Absolutely wonderful mattress. Hip and back pain gone.”
If you’ve gotten your tape measure out and there’s room for a Cal king or king mattress in your room, there are plenty of luxury and budget-friendly options to take your bedroom to the next level. A good night’s sleep can make all the difference in your mental health and well-being, so it’s worth investing in. With a larger mattress, you’ll have room to stretch out without disturbing your partner and your bedroom will feel more inviting. To test out mattresses in person, stop by one of our Idler’s locations today.
FAQ
What size is a king mattress?
King mattresses measure 76” x 80”.
What size is a California king mattress?
California king mattresses measure 72” x 84”.
How much does a king size mattress weigh?
The weight of a king size mattress can vary depending on the materials used, such as foam, springs, or hybrid constructions. On average, a king size mattress typically weighs between 100 to 200 pounds (45 to 91 kilograms). However, some specialty mattresses, like those made with natural latex or high-density memory foam, might weigh more. It's always a good idea to check with the manufacturer for the specific weight of the mattress you're interested in, as it can vary.
Where to buy a mattress near me?
California shoppers can find a wide selection of luxury and affordable mattresses at Idler’s from top brands like Tempur-Pedic, Stearns & Foster, and Sealy.
Why Trust Idler’s Home?
At Idler’s Home, we believe in providing the highest quality products and service to our community. Over the span of 70 years (and counting), our business has seen successful growth, with over 100 employees and five locations along the central coast of California. Not only do we offer major appliances, quality furniture, and the best mattresses but we also provide hot tubs and swim spas and perform kitchen design services. In addition, our trained professional installers can set up all appliances we sell while our factory-trained technicians service and repair them if they ever break down. Suffice it to say: Idler’s is dedicated to helping you make the vision you have for your home a reality.
Shop Mattresses at Idler’s
Envision the possibilities for your home and shop mattresses online at Idler’s. Our friendly team is always happy to help you compare cal king vs king mattresses — whether you call us, email us, or use our online chat feature. Or better yet, stop by any of our five Central Coast locations to experience the quality of our products yourself. Visit us today!
→ Learn more: Core Sleep: Why It Matters and How to Get More