Nowadays, you don’t have to be royalty to own a king mattress. All you need to sleep like a king is ample floor space. King mattresses are often used by couples who want maximum room to spread out, though they are equally comfortable for single sleepers.
Our team tested over 1,000 mattresses to choose the best king mattresses available today. Our top picks include models with high-quality components and sufficient structure to provide support across the bed’s large surface area.
Couples with different preferences may want to consider one of our picks for thebest split king mattress. All of our choices for the best mattress of 2025 also come in standard king dimensions and some are available as split kings.
Thanks to its zoned hybrid construction and four firmness options, the WinkBed is one of the most versatile mattresses on the market in a king or any other size. A generous return and exchange policy also ensures you are covered if your first selection isn't quite cutting it.
Ideal forSide Sleepers
FirmnessMedium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7), Firm (8)
FeelPlush, Supportive Surface
ValueGood Value
Pros
Comfort foam adapts to your body without hugging too tightly
Available in four firmness levels
Zoned coils provide targeted support for the midsection
Cons
Firmer models struggle with motion isolation
Strong off-gassing odor for the first few nights
Side Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
8.0/10
130-230 lbs
9.5/10
Above 230 lbs
8.0/10
Back Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
7.5/10
130-230 lbs
9.0/10
Above 230 lbs
7.5/10
Stomach Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
6.0/10
130-230 lbs
7.5/10
Above 230 lbs
6.0/10
Why We Like It
During hands-on tests, everyone on our testing team had nice things to say about the WinkBed — though we disagreed about which model felt most comfortable. Side sleepers up to 230 pounds preferred the adaptive medium soft (4) model, which hugs the body closely and provides deep cushioning for the shoulders and hips. Heavier side sleepers, along with most of our back and stomach sleepers, preferred the extra support of the medium firm (6) and firm (7) models. Some of our back and stomach sleepers over 230 pounds gave their highest ratings to the WinkBed Plus (8), which feels much bouncier and more robust than the other designs.
All versions of the WinkBed sleep fairly cool. This can be attributed to the moisture-wicking Tencel cover, breathable comfort materials, and steady airflow through the coil system. The softest design has a major edge in terms of motion isolation and pressure relief, while the firmer models fared better during our edge support and ease of movement tests.
How Does It Feel?
The medium soft, medium firm, and firm WinkBed models contain adaptive polyfoam, which contours to your figure without the deep hug of memory foam. WinkBed Plus swaps out the polyfoam for a layer of zoned latex, giving this mattress a much more responsive feel and a steady bounce along the surface.
The WinkBed's pocketed coils are zoned, meaning they feel stronger beneath your torso and hips. This feature is especially helpful for people with lower back pain. A moisture-wicking Tencel cover encases the entire mattress.
The Bear Original caters to sleepers who enjoy the feel of foam beds but need a bit more firmness. With a firm (7) feel, this model is more supportive than other foam models we’ve tested, but still conforms closely enough to relieve pressure buildup.
Ideal forSide and Back Sleepers
FirmnessFirm (7)
FeelFirm pressure relief
ValueGreat Value
Pros
Affordably priced
Foam helps absorb movement
Firm surface is great for sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds
Cons
Heat buildup may be too much for hotter sleepers
Strong off-gassing smells at first
Side Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
6.5/10
130-230 lbs
8.0/10
Above 230 lbs
6.5/10
Back Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
6.5/10
130-230 lbs
8.0/10
Above 230 lbs
6.5/10
Stomach Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
5.0/10
130-230 lbs
6.5/10
Above 230 lbs
5.0/10
Why We Like It
While foam mattresses are quite popular, a common complaint is that they’re too soft and prone to uncomfortable sinkage. The Bear Original avoids this by having a firm (7) feel and offering even, sturdy support for people who weigh 130 pounds or more. A memory foam comfort layer contours lightly to alleviate pain and pressure points in sensitive areas, but the denser base layers reinforce the sleep surface to keep your body on an even plane — including around the midsection.
A cover made from Celliant-blend fabric encases the mattress. Celliant is engineered to feel cool to the touch, and our tests showed that body heat retention was minimal. The memory foam comfort layer, which is infused with graphite, is also designed to help with temperature regulation. Since the mattress is on the firmer side, we found sinkage to be minimal, leading to better surface airflow.
How Does It Feel?
During our hands-on tests, the Bear Original received favorable ratings from side sleepers weighing more than 230 pounds, as well as back and stomach sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds. Motion isolation tests showed little to no transfer when the other person moved on their side of the bed.
The Bear Original may be a good fit for you if you enjoy the contouring of memory foam but normally find all-foam mattresses too soft. The cooling Celliant-blend cover also helps cut down on uncomfortable heat retention, another common issue with foam beds.
Comfort is subjective, but most of our testers agree the Helix Midnight nails that fine balance between plush cushioning and strong support. Consistent cooling, a strong perimeter, and a light bounce add to the appeal — not to mention the approachable sticker price.
Ideal forCombination Sleepers
FirmnessMedium Firm (6)
FeelMedium-Firm Balanced Support
ValueGood Value
Pros
Reinforced perimeter helps strengthen edge support
Breathable cover and pocketed coils keep the sleep surface cool
Above-average pressure relief
Cons
May lack support for stomach sleepers
Some people may feel restricted when changing positions
Side Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
8.0/10
130-230 lbs
9.5/10
Above 230 lbs
8.0/10
Back Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
7.5/10
130-230 lbs
9.0/10
Above 230 lbs
7.5/10
Stomach Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
6.0/10
130-230 lbs
7.5/10
Above 230 lbs
6.0/10
Why We Like It
The medium firm (6) Helix Midnight was originally designed for side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds, but our tests show the mattress should meet the needs of most side and back sleepers up to 230 pounds. Stomach sleepers on our team under 130 pounds also found the mattress comfortable and sufficiently supportive. If you’re a back or stomach sleeper who weighs more than 230 pounds, a firmer Helix model such as the Dawn or Twilight may be a better match.
We awarded the Midnight favorable ratings for edge support, motion isolation, and pressure relief. While the foam may trap some heat, the coil system promotes enough airflow to maintain a consistent internal temperature. People who sleep exceptionally hot should consider the cooling cover upgrade, as the GlacioTex makes a significant difference in surface-level thermoregulation.
How Does It Feel?
The Midnight’s top layer is composed of memory foam, which adapts to your body and creates a pressure-relieving cradle for your unique curves and contours. Transitional polyfoam provides additional cushioning, but also pushes back to keep you on an even plane and creates a barrier between you and the support core, which contains pocketed coils and dense base foam. The perimeter coils are thicker to minimize sinkage when you sleep near the edges or get in and out of bed.
Standard Midnight covers are made of knit polyester. This material is somewhat breathable, but you can upgrade to a cover made of GlacioTex phase change fabric if you run hot in bed. GlacioTex is engineered to dissipate body heat on contact and feel cool at all times.
The Saatva Classic is undeniably luxurious, but its sticker price is much more affordable than a lot of competing high-end models. Multiple firmness options, free White Glove delivery, and a 365-night trial sweeten the deal even further for shoppers.
Ideal forBack Sleepers
FirmnessSoft (3), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
FeelBouncy, Supportive Surface
ValueFair Value
Pros
Coil-on-coil design is exceptionally sturdy and responsive
Available in three firmness levels
Free White Glove delivery for all orders
Cons
Limited motion isolation for couples
$99 fee for returns
Side Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
7.0/10
130-230 lbs
9.0/10
Above 230 lbs
9.0/10
Back Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
7.0/10
130-230 lbs
9.0/10
Above 230 lbs
9.0/10
Stomach Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
6.5/10
130-230 lbs
8.5/10
Above 230 lbs
8.5/10
Why We Like It
The Saatva Classic's coil-on-coil construction is somewhat unique, giving the mattress considerable bounce and responsiveness to movement. This helps ensure excellent edge support and a surface that's easy to move on, as well as exemplary temperature regulation from steady airflow through boil coil systems. The biggest drawback is limited motion isolation — you'll be able to feel most movements from your partner, and vice versa.
In terms of sleeper testing, the Classic was a big hit with our team. Side sleepers were impressed with the soft (3) design's deep contouring, as innersprings rarely feel this plush or adaptive. Back and stomach sleepers, on the other hand, appreciated the robust reinforcement of the medium firm (6) and firm (8) designs.
How Does It Feel?
The Saatva Classic is designed with a Euro-top surface, which encases plush foam padding and a zoned memory foam lumbar pad intended to support your lower back. Minicoils make up the transitional layer, adding bounce and breathability close to the surface. Low-gauge steel coils with reinforced edges stabilize the mattress and allow you to use the full surface, even if you sleep close to the perimeter.
In addition to the three firmness options, you can also choose between a mattress profile of 11.5 or 14.5 inches. The difference lies in support core height, as the taller model's coils are 4 inches thicker than the shorter model's. There is no price difference between the firmness or thickness options.
The Sleep Number ComfortMode lives up to its name with 100 firmness settings, which you can adjust as often as you want using a wireless remote or companion app. Thick foam cushioning in the comfort system gives this mattress an edge for motion isolation and pressure relief.
Ideal forCombination Sleepers
FirmnessAdjustable: Soft (3) to Firm (8)
FeelAdjustable Firmness
ValueGreat Value
Pros
Adjustable firmness with 100 individual settings
Gel-infused polyfoam cushions your body without trapping too much heat
Responsive Air technology makes minor firmness changes when you change positions
Cons
Edges lack support and tend to sink when weight is applied
Off-gassing odor can be unpleasant for the first few nights
Side Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
8.0/10
130-230 lbs
9.0/10
Above 230 lbs
7.5/10
Back Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
8.5/10
130-230 lbs
7.5/10
Above 230 lbs
6.5/10
Stomach Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
8.5/10
130-230 lbs
7.0/10
Above 230 lbs
6.0/10
Why We Like It
Since the Sleep Number ComfortMode offers adjustable firmness, most members of our testing team gave the mattress positive ratings, but we disagreed about which firmness levels were best suited to our needs. Side sleepers on our team gravitated toward plusher settings, while back and stomach sleepers largely preferred the firmer end of the dial, but everyone agreed the controls were responsive and user-friendly when making adjustments.
This model contains a substantial amount of foam cushioning, and this goes a long way toward its pressure-relieving abilities. We also found that the ComfortMode isolates motion very well. On the other hand, the foam layers can hinder movement on the surface and edge support is limited.
How Does It Feel?
How the Sleep Number ComfortMode feels at any given time depends on which firmness level you're using. You can choose from 100 different settings, and if you opt for a queen size or larger, your partner can program a separate firmness level on their side of the bed. Adjustable air chambers in the support core drive the customization controls — using the wireless remote or companion app, you'll add air to make the mattress feel firmer or release air to make it softer.
Two layers of adaptive polyfoam make up the comfort system. The top layer is infused with cooling gel intended to reduce heat retention, while the second layer is denser for balanced transitional support. At 10 inches thick, the ComfortMode is a mid-profile mattress, and this means you won't need a deep-pocket fitted sheet.
Side sleepers in search of a cushy, adaptive mattress should look no further than the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid. Thick foam layers deliver close cradling around the shoulders and hips, while zoned coils prevent these areas from sinking too deeply into the mattress.
Ideal forCouples
FirmnessMedium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7)
FeelCool, Plush Support
ValueGood Value
Pros
Thick foam cushioning to cradle the body and alleviate hot spots
Three firmness options
Zoned coils with reinforced edges create a very stable base
Cons
Strong off-gassing smells may persist for several nights
Heavier sleepers may sink when moving on the surface
Side Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
8.0/10
130-230 lbs
9.5/10
Above 230 lbs
8.0/10
Back Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
7.5/10
130-230 lbs
9.0/10
Above 230 lbs
7.5/10
Stomach Sleepers
Under 130 lbs
6.0/10
130-230 lbs
7.5/10
Above 230 lbs
6.0/10
Why We Like It
Our team tested all three of the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid's designs. Side sleepers up to 230 pounds and back sleepers under 130 pounds preferred the deep conforming of the medium (5) model, which hugs the body closely. Back and stomach sleepers over 230 pounds were more impressed with the robust support of the firm (7) model. Everyone else found comfort with the balanced medium firm (6) design, which contours slightly and feels responsive to movement without transferring too much motion.
Our hands-on tests show the softest design is built to isolate motion and alleviate pressure, but this model feels somewhat weak along the perimeter and is harder to move on. With the medium firm and firm models, the edges feel sturdier and there isn't as much resistance to movement, but couples may notice more motion transfer.
How Does It Feel?
The Sapira Chill Hybrid contains four individual comfort layers, beginning with adaptive polyfoam that's sewn into the cover and infused with cooling gel. Adaptive polyfoam and memory foam comfort layers provide additional cushioning and contouring, while the transitional foam layer creates a thin buffer between the comfort system and support core.
Zoned pocketed coils with a reinforced perimeter create a very stable support system for the Sapira Chill, though how sturdy the overall mattress feels depends on which firmness you select. A base layer of high-density polyfoam rounds out the hybrid design.
A king is one of the larger standard size mattresses available on the market. It’s a good choice for couples who find queen sizes too small. It’s an especially good fit for couples who share the bed with children or pets.
Video: The Best Mattresses of 2025
Who Is a King Mattress Best For?
The king mattress is the widest standard mattress size. In addition to being one of the best mattress sizes for couples, king mattresses are an excellent option for anyone seeking a bit of extra room, including people who co-sleep with kids, those who share the bed with a pet, and single sleepers who like to sprawl out.
King size bedding and frames are readily and widely available, though they are typically more expensive than other sizes. King beds require significant floor space, so be sure to measure your bedroom to see if a king will fit.
At 76 inches by 80 inches, king size mattresses are the same length as queen mattresses, but measure 16 inches wider. A queen mattress may be a better choice if you have limited space.
California kings are 72 inches by 84 inches. They have the same overall surface area as a king mattress, but are less wide and feature added length to accommodate tall sleepers. If you’re choosing between the two, think about whether you need your bed to be wider or longer.
How to Choose a King Mattress
Choosing any mattress, including a king mattress, requires paying attention to several important details. Mattress construction, firmness, performance, and price are all critical factors to consider.
Mattress Material
Though there are thousands of different mattresses on the market, most models belong to one of four particular mattress types. You can find king mattresses in any of the following common constructions.
Foam: Foam mattresses have a polyfoam support core and a comfort system that often includes polyfoam or memory foam. They are typically affordable and excel at pressure relief and isolating motion.
Hybrid: Hybrid mattresses have support cores made from pocketed coils, which lends structure, airflow, and bounce. They also have an ample comfort system, which may include layers of foam, latex, micro-coils, wool, or microfiber.
Latex: Latex comes from the same trees that produce rubber, and mattresses that feature this material have the same buoyant, resilient quality. Latex mattresses are breathable and highly durable, though they can be expensive.
Airbed: Airbeds have adjustable firmness levels. The air-filled support core can inflate and deflate to give you your desired feel. You can adjust each side of the bed independently, which is particularly beneficial for couples.
Some mattresses are also available in a split king size, which is essentially two twin XL mattresses next to each other. The split king’s major benefit is that each sleep partner can choose their own firmness level.
Firmness
Each mattress has a firmness rating that falls somewhere on our scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the firmest. Choosing a firm vs. soft mattress depends on your weight, favorite sleeping position, and personal preference. Considering all these factors together, it can help you pick a mattress that’s firm enough to support your spine, with enough cushioning to prevent discomfort from pressure points.
Motion Isolation and Edge Support
Motion isolation and edge support are two critical qualities for anyone who shares a bed.
A mattress with strong motion isolation traps movement where it happens rather than allowing it to transfer across the surface and wake your partner. Foam mattresses and hybrids with foam layers are typically excellent at isolating motion.
Strong support along the edges allows two people to use the entire mattress surface without sagging, sinking, or rolling toward the middle. Choose a mattress with a high-density foam perimeter or stronger perimeter coils to get maximum edge support.
Pricing, Trial, and Warranty
King mattresses and their accessories generally cost more than smaller mattresses because they require more materials to make. While construction, quality, and brand name all affect price, you can expect to spend between $900 and $2,000 for a good model.
Most mattresses sold online come with a sleep trial that usually ranges between 100 and 365 days. These trials allow you to test out your mattress in person and send it back for a refund if it’s not quite right for you.
Mattresses also come with a warranty, which protects your purchase by covering manufacturing or workmanship defects as well as material issues like cracking foam.
Transport and Setup
Because king mattresses are so large, buying one requires a bit of planning ahead. First, measure your bedroom’s floor space and any doorways the mattress needs to fit through. If you’ve got enough space, you can clear a path to make the delivery day easier.
We recommend asking a friend or partner to help you move the mattress. Even if it’s compressed and packed in a box, the mattress’ weight can make it difficult to move. For an extra fee, companies may offer White Glove delivery, where a team installs your mattress for you and may also remove your old one, along with any packaging.
Video: How to Choose the Right Mattress
Watch our video to learn more about the mattress-buying process and how to make sure you make the best decision for your needs.
In our Seattle-based sleep lab, we test every mattress the same way, using a methodology we’ve developed over nearly a decade. We examine a mattress’ performance, support, and feel using a series of objective tests as well as personal trials. Our team members have a diverse range of body weights and sleeping positions. They offer detailed feedback on how well each mattress meets their individual needs.
King beds are often shared, so when evaluating the best king size mattresses, we looked closely at factors important to couples, including motion isolation and edge support. We also included models in a range of firmness levels and constructions.
We put each mattress through a rigorous set of tests to evaluate performance metrics like support and durability. Our team also uses body-mapping technology and thermal imaging to measure pressure buildup and heat retention. We regularly update our top picks to reflect the current market’s best mattresses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should buy a king bed?
Anyone who wants a very wide bed should consider a king mattress. They’re convenient for couples, people who share the bed with their children, those with bed-hogging pets, and single sleepers looking for a luxe mattress. However, king mattresses and bedding usually cost more than other sizes and require substantial floor space, so plan accordingly.
What is the difference between a king, queen, and California king mattress?
A king bed is wider than both queen and California king beds, but shorter than a California king.
Queens are narrower than both king sizes and measure 60 inches by 80 inches, while standard king mattress dimensions are 76 inches by 80 inches. A California king has the same surface area as a standard king, but at 72 inches by 84 inches, it’s narrower and longer than a regular king. The best choice between a king vs. queen or king vs. California king mattress depends on whether width or length is more important for you.
Is a king mattress better for couples?
If you have enough space in your bedroom, a king mattress is a good choice for couples. A king is 16 inches wider than a queen, which gives each partner plenty of room. However, king mattresses cost more than other mattress sizes, and you’ll need a fairly large bedroom to accommodate one.
A California king may be better if you or your partner is taller than 6 feet.
How much does a king mattress cost?
A king mattress’ price depends on factors like materials, construction, brand reputation, and quality. Prices generally run between $900 and $2,000 for a mid-range model. However, you can find budget-friendly options for less than $500, while luxury and specialty beds can cost over $3,000.
What is a split king bed?
A split king bed is a king size mattress that’s split down the middle, similar to having two twin XL beds placed next to each other. Split kings are excellent for couples who want to share a bed but have very different needs. A split king gives your side of the bed a different firmness level and feel than your partner’s side.
David is a Certified Sleep Science Coach with a lifelong passion for well-being and health optimization. His interest in sleep developed with the arrival of his son, when sleep suddenly became a precious commodity. Since then, David has researched everything from bedtime routines to mattress toppers in his quest for a great night’s sleep.
