What Is the Difference Between a King and California King: A Comprehensive Guide

What Is the Difference Between a King and California King?

The main difference between a King and a California King bed is the dimensions.

A regular King bed is 76 inches wide by 80 inches long, while a California King bed is 72 inches wide by 84 inches long.

This means that a California King bed is 4 inches longer than a regular King bed but slightly smaller in terms of surface area.

California King beds are better for taller people and longer/narrower bedrooms, while King beds are better for those with kids or pets and for shorter/wider rooms.

However, it can be harder to find bed frames and bedding for California King beds, while accessories are easier to find for King beds.

Key Points:

  • King beds are 76 inches wide by 80 inches long, while California King beds are 72 inches wide by 84 inches long.
  • California King beds are 4 inches longer than King beds but slightly smaller in surface area.
  • California King beds are better for taller people and longer/narrower bedrooms, while King beds are better for those with kids or pets and for shorter/wider rooms.
  • It can be harder to find bed frames and bedding for California King beds.
  • Accessories are easier to find for King beds.
  • The main difference between King and California King beds is their dimensions.

Did You Know?

1. Did you know that the California King bed size was actually created in Los Angeles in the mid-1960s by a furniture company? It was initially designed to accommodate taller people without taking up more floor space in their bedrooms.

2. Interestingly, a California King bed is longer and narrower than a standard King bed. While a King bed is typically 76 inches wide and 80 inches long, a California King bed measures 72 inches wide and 84 inches long. So, if you’re tall and need some extra legroom, the California King might be your best bet.

3. One little-known fact is that the names “King” and “California King” can be quite misleading! Contrary to what you might assume, the King-size bed is actually more commonly sold and used in the United States, while the California King is more popular on the West Coast.

4. If you’re wondering why the California King is named as such, it’s believed that the name was inspired by a luxurious lifestyle often associated with the state of California. This, combined with the fact that the bed was first introduced in Los Angeles, led to the name “California King” becoming synonymous with a larger, high-end type of bed.

5. Lastly, have you ever wondered why there is a size difference between a King and a California King bed? Well, it is mainly due to regional preferences and market demand. Manufacturers recognized that people in certain areas preferred a narrower bed with extra length, which led to the creation of the California King size. So, the difference between the two ultimately stems from consumer needs and geographical variations in mattress preferences.

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The Difference In Length: California King Vs. King

When it comes to choosing a bed, size is a crucial factor to consider. Two popular options are the King bed and the California King bed. While both provide ample space for a comfortable night’s sleep, there is a notable difference between the two in terms of length.

A regular King bed measures 76 inches wide by 80 inches long. It offers plenty of room for couples to stretch out and move around without feeling cramped. However, for individuals on the taller side, the 80 inches of length may feel somewhat restricting.

This is where the California King bed comes in. Designed to cater to taller individuals, it measures 4 inches longer than a regular King bed, coming in at 72 inches wide by 84 inches long. This extra length can make a significant difference for those who need more legroom while sleeping. Whether you are over six feet tall or simply enjoy having some additional space to sprawl out comfortably, the California King bed provides the desired extra length.

Size Comparison: Dimensions Of A Regular King Vs. California King

While the difference in length between a King and California King bed is clear, it is important to consider their overall dimensions. Understanding the precise size of each bed can help you determine the best fit for your specific needs and space constraints.

A regular King bed measures 76 inches wide by 80 inches long. This wider option provides more width compared to the California King bed. However, it is important to note that width may not always be the deciding factor for everyone. If you prioritize more length rather than width, then the California King bed might be the better choice for you.

On the other hand, a California King bed measures 72 inches wide by 84 inches long. While it is slightly smaller in terms of surface area compared to a regular King bed, the additional 4 inches of length make it the optimal choice for taller individuals or those who simply prefer a bed with extra legroom. It is essential to measure your space carefully and consider your individual preferences before making a decision.

  • Consider overall dimensions
  • King bed: 76″ wide by 80″ long
  • California King bed: 72″ wide by 84″ long
  • California King offers extra legroom for taller individuals.

Pros And Cons Of California King And King Beds

When deciding between a California King and a regular King bed, it is important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each. Here is a breakdown of the pros and cons:

California King Bed:

  • Pros:
  • Ideal for taller individuals who need more legroom
  • Great for longer, narrower bedrooms
  • Can provide a more luxurious and spacious feel

  • Cons:
  • Bed frames and bedding options may be more challenging to find compared to regular King beds
  • Slightly smaller surface area compared to regular King beds

Regular King Bed:

  • Pros:
  • Better suited for those with kids or pets and for shorter, wider rooms
  • Accessories and bedding are easier to find
  • Larger surface area compared to a California King bed

  • Cons:
  • Not as suitable for taller individuals who need additional legroom
  • May feel more expansive and crowded in smaller rooms

Understanding these pros and cons can help you determine which bed size will best meet your individual needs and preferences.

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Additional Resources:

For more information on bed sizes, you can refer to this bed size guide.

Consider measuring your bedroom dimensions to determine the best fit for your space.
Think about your individual preferences and prioritize them when making a decision.
Consult with your partner or family members to ensure everyone’s needs are considered.
Visit furniture stores and test out different bed sizes to get a feel for the comfort and space they offer.

History Of King And California King Beds

The history of King and California King beds dates back several decades. It all began in 1958 when Simmons, a leading mattress manufacturer, introduced King and Queen-sized mattresses. This innovation brought a new level of comfort and luxury to the bedroom.

The California King bed, however, originated a few years later in the 1960s. It came into existence due to the requests of celebrities for oversized mattresses. These stars, who often had larger than average bedrooms, desired a bed that offered both space and luxury. Thus, the California King bed was born.

The standard California King size bed measures 72 inches wide by 84 inches long, making it the longest bed available commercially. While it may have initially been created to cater to the demands of the rich and famous, it has since become a popular option for those seeking extra length and a touch of luxury in their bedrooms.

  • The first King and Queen-sized mattresses were introduced by Simmons in 1958.
  • The California King bed originated in the 1960s due to the requests of celebrities.
  • The standard California King size bed measures 72 inches wide by 84 inches long.

Introducing The Amerisleep As3 Mattress

Now that we have explored the differences between King and California King beds, it is crucial to consider the mattress itself. The Amerisleep AS3 mattress is a popular choice for both King and California King sizes due to its versatility and comfort.

The AS3 mattress offers a medium firmness level, suitable for a wide range of sleepers. Whether you prefer to sleep on your back, side, or stomach, this mattress provides the right balance of support and pressure relief for a restful night’s sleep.

It consists of three foam layers that work together to provide optimal comfort and support. The top layer, known as Bio-Pur® foam, is a plant-based material that offers improved sustainability and adaptability. It contours to your body shape, providing personalized support and relieving pressure points.

Beneath the Bio-Pur® foam layer is the Affinity foam with HIVE® layer. This layer incorporates hexagonal cutouts arranged in five zones to provide targeted pressure relief and support where your body needs it most. The unique design ensures that your body remains aligned, reducing the risk of waking up with aches and pains.

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Finally, the AS3 mattress features a Bio-Core® foam base. This layer serves as the foundation of the mattress, ensuring durability and preventing sagging, even after years of use.

Additionally, the AS3 mattress comes with a 20-year warranty, providing peace of mind knowing that your investment is protected.

understanding the differences between a King and California King bed is essential when choosing the right size for your bedroom. Considering factors such as length, dimensions, and pros and cons can help you make an informed decision. Additionally, the Amerisleep AS3 mattress offers comfort and support for both King and California King bed sizes, making it a popular choice among sleepers.


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Frequently Asked Questions

Is a California king better than a regular king?

When it comes to choosing between a California king and a regular king, it ultimately depends on your sleeping preferences. If you enjoy snuggling up closely to your partner, the slightly narrower California king may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer more personal space during sleep, the standard king’s extra width will provide you with the desired room to stretch out comfortably. Ultimately, the decision boils down to how you envision sharing your sleeping space.

Why is it called California king?

The California king acquired its name due to its origin in Los Angeles, California. As the mattress was developed, the inventor believed that many Californians possessed spacious homes capable of accommodating a bed measuring six feet wide and seven feet long. Hence, the name “California king” became synonymous with this particular mattress size, highlighting its association with the preference and lifestyle of Californians.

Why is California king smaller than King?

The reason why a California king is smaller than a king is because of the difference in dimensions. While a California king mattress is longer, measuring 84 inches in length, it is narrower at 72 inches in width. On the other hand, a regular king mattress is wider, measuring 76 inches in width, but shorter at 80 inches in length. This variation in size results in the California king having slightly less surface area than a king mattress. Therefore, even though the California king may be longer, its narrower width makes it overall smaller than a standard king mattress.

What is the biggest king size bed?

The largest king size bed available is the Alaskan king bed, measuring an impressive 108 inches by 108 inches (9 feet by 9 feet). This expansive mattress offers ample space for multiple sleepers to stretch out and enjoy a comfortable night’s rest. Not only that, but taller individuals over 6.5 feet will appreciate the extra legroom provided by the Alaskan king bed. Its size truly accommodates those looking for the utmost comfort and space in their sleeping arrangement.

References: 1, 2, 3, 4

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