King-size vs Queen-size Mattress - Which mattress should you buy?


Image

Key Points

  • There are various options for king-size and queen-size mattresses available in India, which have their own features and uses. 
  • Both king-size and queen-size mattresses have their own pros and cons, and decision about which one to buy should be based on your needs.

You have made plans to purchase a mattress. But you have many questions running in your mind - Should you buy a king-size or queen-size mattress? What about that bed you have at home? Will the new mattress fit in, or do you need to buy a new bed too? These are a few questions that can potentially create confusion and put off the buying decision.

Selecting the proper size is essential to ensure clarity when choosing your next mattress. Read this article if you need help deciding between king-size and queen-size mattresses.

In this article, we shall try to discover, in detail, the difference between king and queen mattresses, beginning with the fundamental dimensions and then moving on to the factors you must consider while selecting between these standard sizes. Finally, we will answer the question - Which mattress should you buy - a king-size or queen-size mattress?

King-size and queen-size mattress in India

While various mattress manufacturers are in the market, the dimensions of king-size and queen-size mattresses are more or less standard. The following sizes are considered to be typical for king-sized and queen-sized mattresses in India:

King-size and queen-size mattress dimensions


Width and length of mattress:

  • King-size - 76 inches wide and 80 inches long
  • Queen-size - 60 inches wide and 80 inches long

Surface Area of mattress:

  • King-size - 4,800 square inches in total area
  • Queen-size - 6,080 square inches in total area

As you can see, there is some difference between the sizes of these two mattresses. The width of the king mattress measures 76 inches, equivalent to six feet and three inches, while the length is 80 inches.

The width of the queen mattress is, however, 60 inches, equivalent to five feet, while the length is 80 inches, the same as that of a queen-size mattress.

Although the lengths of both sizes are similar, which means there is no difference in how long the mattresses are, the surface area covered by both mattresses is quite different. King-size mattresses can cover much larger areas, providing the extra benefit in terms of space and additional comfort. With their narrower width, queen-size mattresses are usually smaller in comparison.

With these physical differences in mind, let's explore the advantages and disadvantages of king-size and queen-size mattresses.

Pros and Cons of King and queen-size mattress


Pros of King-size mattress
  • King-size mattresses are more spacious and have more side room than queen-size.
  • You can easily stretch without letting the other person know due to ample space between two people.
  • They can accommodate two people easily, even with a small kid.
  • King-size mattresses look great in bedrooms with much space.

Cons of King-size mattress
  • King-size mattresses are bigger and generally more expensive than queen-size mattresses;
  • The cost of accessories like bedsheets, quilts, covers, etc., will also be higher.
  • Due to the larger area covered, it is more difficult to walk around, especially when your bedroom is small, or there are other pieces of furniture in your room.
  • It only fits properly in some beds. Moving the mattress around the house is also more difficult.

Just like pros and cons of King-size mattress, Queen-size mattress may have certains pros and cons like;

Pros of Queen-size mattress
  • The queen-size mattress is the most common size and can easily fit a couple, although a small child or pet can be accommodated if required.
  • Since most people have them in their houses, queen-size furnishings and bedding accessories are also usually available.
  • It is comfortable for most couples and much easier to move around the house than the king-size mattress.
  • It creates more space in the bedroom since it requires less space than a king-size mattress.

Cons of Queen-size mattress
  • Although the length of both mattresses is the same, there is less space width-wise than king-size mattresses.
  • Some people may find claustrophobia in the bed due to limited area.
  • It is not recommended for couples who share the bed with a young child or a pet.

Both sizes can comfortably accommodate two individuals. But since the smaller sizes are typically too confined for two people, most couples will choose the king size over the queen size if space and budget are not a constraint.

Which Mattress Should You Buy - King-Size or Queen-Size Mattress?

Many online and offline mattresses are available for couples and families today, including king and queen-size mattresses. To answer the question of which mattress you should buy between the two, the following are some considerations to keep in mind:

Who will be using the mattress?

In the event that the bed is intended solely for a single person, a queen-sized bed is an excellent option to consider. A queen-size mattress is designed for a small family. Therefore, for a single person, there is more than enough sleeping space.

But since mattresses have a considerable life, it is common for people to favour a king-size mattress, even if it is only used by a single person or a couple. Reasons could range from family growth to more premier bedding.

What are your sleeping habits?

Although a queen-size mattress is spacious for a single user and adequate for a young couple, it is also dependent on the sleeping habits and the position that they choose to sleep in.

If you are accustomed to occupying a large amount of space, moving around, or sleeping restlessly on the bed, selecting a king-size bed is recommended.

Who is your sleeping partner(s)?

Who do you share your bed with? Most people will feel at ease sleeping on a queen-sized mattress, but those who desire additional space to stretch their arms or legs consider upgrading to a king-sized mattress.

Couples who like to share their bed with children and pets should select a king-sized bed to provide sufficient room.

Also, the king-size mattress is the next ideal option if you are about to share your bed with a kin or friend.

Physical attributes of the people using the mattress

Physical attributes, such as the height and weight of the people using the mattress and the position they like to sleep in, will also impact the choice between a queen and a king mattress.

The physical dimensions of both you and your partner and your individual preferences about the position in which you sleep should be ascertained before choosing between king-size and queen-size mattresses.

Couples who are physically larger may invest in a king-size mattress, which offers more side space than a regular queen-size mattress.

People who sleep on their stomachs or backs tend to desire more space around them than people who sleep on their sides. Therefore, king-size mattresses are recommended to such people too.

Budget

Budget plays a vital role in short-listing a mattress. How much do you want to spend vs how much can you afford? What kind of money are you committing to purchase a new mattress? - these are some questions that require realistic answers.

Compared to a queen-size mattress of the same brand and type, a king bed will always cost more, considering the extra mattress/surface area you are getting compared to a queen-size mattress

Additionally, the larger king-size mattress will increase the cost of the bed, too, if you don't have one already. Other bedding items such as bedsheets, covers, and blankets will also cost extra due to their bigger size.

If you have a limited (read as tight) budget, queen-size mattresses are the best alternative for you.

Bedroom Dimensions

What is the bedroom size where you intend to position the bed? Before purchasing a new mattress, it is always wise to take measurements to understand how well each size might fit into the available space.

It is usually recommended to have a distance of approximately 24 inches between the bed and any wall or furniture in the surrounding area.

Given that a king-size mattress is 16 inches bigger than a queen-size mattress, it can make smaller spaces feel more claustrophobic.

How much do you move around?

Compared to a queen mattress, a king mattress will be more challenging to move around because of its length.

Although some modern mattresses can be squeezed and vacuum packed, too, they require particular types of equipment, which are not always available at home.

Moving king-sized mattresses can be more complex than moving other types of mattresses. The queen mattress can be a better option if you move around quite a bit.

Conclusion

There are various factors involved when buying a relevant mattress. The choice between a king-size or queen-size mattress also depends on factors such as who will be using the mattress, sleeping habits, partner(s), physical attributes, budget, bedroom dimensions, and mobility.

Choosing between king-size and queen-size mattresses will ultimately depend on individual preferences and specific needs.