For many people, the king size bed is the pinnacle of bedroom furniture ambition, providing a sleeping environment that is literally fit for a king. If you love to spread out while sleeping and have the space for a king size bed in your home, your next consideration should be which king size mattress you’re going to buy.
Every prominent mattress brand offers one or more king size mattresses, but which is the best? It’s a common question, which is why we’ve tested a selection of the best king size mattresses available. Through our research, you too can now enjoy the king mattress sleeping experience.
Best King Size Mattress In 2020 – Top Rated Reviews
Nectar Memory Foam Mattress – Best Overall
Nectar are one of the fastest growing mattress brands in the country and its easy to see why.
Their premium memory foam mattress stood out to us for a variety of reasons, but its award-winning combination of versatility and quality really sealed the deal.
It’s a firm mattress which is billed as being suitable for all sleeping positions, whether front, back, side or a combination of all three. The difference is that this mattress is capable of supporting your entire body whilst also being soft enough to appease those who like softer mattresses.
It’s a great accomplishment and one that translates into a mattress that most people should love.
Its constructed entirely from several different types of memory foam, each designed to work in perfect harmony with each other to relieve pressure as you sleep.
The upper 2 layers have been infused with cooling technology which is designed to ensure that you remain cool, which successfully combats one of the most common issues with memory foam mattresses.
For those that are unsure whether it might be a little too firm, we recommend making use of the 180 day sleep trial which Nectar offer with all purchases. The lifetime warranty is the icing on the cake and makes this our top pick.
Snuggle-Pedic Memory Foam Mattress – Variable Firmness
Snuggle-Pedic’s memory foam mattress is a worthy runner-up on our list.
Rather than focus on gimmicks, Snuggle-Pedic have concentrated on producing a mattress that focusses and excels in providing the utmost in support. This is achieved by the use of a firm base layer of high-density foam which seats beneath a softer top layer of memory foam.
This approach results in a mattress that is comfortable and supportive but also provides exceptional motion isolation for restless sleepers. It also means that every type of sleeper is accommodated, regardless of their preferred sleeping position.
Snuggle-Pedic have also utilized a ventilation and cooling system that actually works, consisting of air channels, pores and breathable fabric to create what they refer to an air transfer system. Its one of the best we’ve come across and offers a fantastically cool sleep.
Best of all, this company will work with you to ensure that your firmness preference is catered to. Simply call for advice and they will send you a variety of accessories free of charge which can be zipped into the mattress cover.
A 4 month sleep trial and a 20 year warranty top off this fantastic mattress.
Layla Sleep Memory Foam Mattress – Soft or Firm
The Layla Sleep always scores highly in our tests and is worthy of inclusion here.
Layla takes a unique approach to mattresses and this one is no different. Its one of few flippable mattresses on the market which gives it a level of versatility that most don’t have.
One side is firm and the other is soft, allowing users to find their ideal firmness level. What remains constant is that classic sinking feeling that memory foam fanatics love, regardless of which side is slept on.
This is achieved through the use of 6 individual layers which are sandwiched together to provide the ultimate in support and pressure relief, perfect for those suffering from aches and pains.
This mattress represents the pinnacle of memory foam technology and is enhanced further through its use of copper within the foam, which works exceptionally well to reduce temperature when sleeping.
It’s a firm favorite here and consumers love it too. You can find out whether its right for you with the 120 night sleep trial.
Casper Sleep Essentials Mattress – Great Allrounder
The Casper Sleep also frequently scores highly and deserves its spot on our list.
Casper have been very successful with their direct to consumer model of ecommerce. This has created somewhat of a buzz surrounding their mattresses with many celebrity endorsements.
In practice, this mattress lives up to the hype and is another one that is suited to most people with a firmness rating of medium. This is due to the use of their proprietary Zoned Support system which provides a variable level of support throughout the length of the mattress.
The idea is to ensure that the important parts of your body such as your hips are supported while your shoulders lie on a pressure relief area which is softer but still supportive. The memory foam used is very responsive and offers outstanding motion isolation too, providing a mattress that is useable across its entire length and width.
It doesn’t sleep quite as cool as our other top picks but should be fine unless you’re an excessively warm sleeper. With a 100 night sleep trial and 10 year warranty, this mattress should be on your shortlist.
Live and Sleep Resort Ultra Mattress – Best Value for Money
On a budget but won’t compromise on quality? Then the Live and Sleep Resort Ultra is for you.
Live and Sleep have created a mattress that provides a sleep that is as good as many other mattresses on the market but at a fraction of the price.
This has been achieved by the use of 3 layers of foam which offer a great combination of support, pressure relief and comfort. Medium in nature, the Live and Sleep Ultra is suitable for back, side and stomach sleepers of average weight, reducing the prevalence of restlessness throughout the night.
Its Soft Flex Cover is breathable and in conjunction with the gel infused top layer provides a cool sleep for those who struggle with high body temperatures while sleeping.
A 30 day sleep trial combined with a 20 year warranty should provide you with the confidence that this mattress is one worth your time and money.
King Size Mattress Buyer’s Guide
Whether you’re upgrading from a smaller size or you’re in the market for your first bed, the king size mattress is a fantastic choice. They offer an unparalleled amount of sleeping space and make the perfect addition to master bedrooms.
Those who are used to sleeping on a queen size mattress are often surprised at just how much additional space they’re getting as photos can be deceiving. Its only until many buyers get their new mattress home that they appreciate the additional size and scale provided.
You can say goodbye to having to sleep on the (usually unsupportive) edge of the mattress and enjoy the middle, whether you sleep alone or with a partner. And if you have children or pets who like to sleep with you, they’ll be accommodated too.
And of course, if you’re a larger person whether taller or heavier, a king size mattress is going to be able to support your size and weight far better than any smaller mattress.
The Difference Between a King and California King Mattress
You might have been under the impression that the Cal King mattress is even larger. In actual fact they’re longer but narrower, swapping width out for length for the tallest of people.
If you’re an average height, the standard king is going to be the better option for you.
As a guide, the standard king measures 76 x 80 inches whereas the Cal King measures 72 x 84 inches.
As an interesting fact, the standard king mattress is 16 inches wider than a standard queen while offering the same amount of length, making it much better for couples.
The Split King Mattress
Everyone has their own preference when it comes to mattress comfort, whether you prefer a firm feel or a softer feel. This can often pose an issue for those who sleep together but can’t agree on the feel of their mattress.
Thankfully, the split king is the perfect solution, as it allows you to purchase a 2 in 1 mattress. This works by allowing a buyer to choose the mattress firmness level for each side of the bed.
If one partner prefers super plush and the other a bed that’s as hard as a rock, this solution could be the perfect choice without any compromise.
This is achieved in one of two ways. Companies will sell you two twin xl mattresses of your choice which can then be placed into an adjustable or standard bed frame.
The other option involves a bed that splits at the head while the foot remains together. This type will require the use of an adjustable bed frame.
If you don’t want to compromise with a medium firm mattress where neither party is happy, the split king is likely to be your best option.
Other King Size Mattress Considerations
Material Type
As with any mattress, there are a range of materials to choose from. Many people already have a preference but if this is the first mattress you’re going to be buying for yourself, its worth taking the time to understand the difference between each type.
The most common materials include polyfoam, memory foam, innersprings, hybrid and latex mattresses. Each material has its own pros and cons as well as its own unique feel. Luxurious mattresses usually contain higher-quality memory foam.
Coils
Spring coils are a common mattress type and provide plenty of support and the bouncy feel that some people love. Typically firmer than other types of mattress.
Foams
Polyfoam and memory foam are very popular options for mattresses. Polyfoam is cheaper and doesn’t offer as much support, whereas memory foam is far more supportive and can be much more expensive depending on its quality.
Memory foam can make a bed feel very warm which is something to look out for.
Hybrids
Hybrid mattresses contain both springs and foam, which to many people offers the best of both worlds. The springs usually sit on the bottom with layers of soft foam on top.
Latex
Latex mattresses are a newer alternative that possess some unique properties. They’re firmer than memory foam but also much bouncier. Latex also doesn’t retain as much heat which is good for warm sleepers.
Typically made from Talalay or Dunlop rubber, latex is usually organic too which may be important to you.
If neither foam nor springs are working for you, the latex mattress is worth a try.
Sleeping Position
Your preferred sleeping position is an important consideration when mattress shopping. There are four common sleeping positions, each of which have their own requirements for support and firmness.
Side sleepers benefit from a softer bed that relieves pressure from their hips and shoulders while lying down.
Back sleepers are better suited to firmer mattresses. This will allow for better weight distribution and ensure the back and spine is properly supported and aligned during sleep.
Stomach sleepers should look for firmer mattresses. This will prevent breathing difficulties and ensure that the hips remain elevated and in alignment with your shoulders.
Combination sleepers are often better suited to a medium firm mattress. This provides the support and responsiveness required as you change position throughout the night.
Whichever your preferred position, it’s very important that you take into account your sleeping habits. Spinal alignment and adequate support are the most important factors of any mattress.
Firmness Level
Your mattresses firmness level is going to affect the quality of your sleep. Too soft and your body will be unsupported. Too firm and you’ll struggle to get comfortable.
The three main categories of firmness are soft, medium and firm. Some brands will have in-between products which are designed for those who really want to dial in their preferences.
Any reference to plush means that it’ll be a softer mattress.
Sleep Trials
Higher-end mattresses will often be accompanied by a sleep trial. This process is designed to allow you to test your new mattress purchase in the comfort of your home.
You will have anywhere up to 180 nights to make sure your new mattress is the right fit. If it isn’t, you’ll be able to return it for a refund.
Warranties
Higher-end mattress will also offer a greater warranty period. You should be looking for an absolute minimum of 5 years but 10+ is preferred. Some companies will even offer you a 20 year warranty.
Every good warranty should cover manufacturing defects and abnormal wear and tear.
Certifications
Mattresses receive certifications which are dependant on the standards they adhere to. If you want to be sure that your mattress is produced from non-toxic materials that are environmentally friendly, be sure to look for certifications such as CertiPUR-US. A bamboo mattress would fall into this category.
How Much Should I Spend?
A new mattress doesn’t have to break the bank but its true when they say you get what you pay for. There are king size mattresses available in every price range, starting at around $200 and going up to over $2000.
For most people, a mattress costing between the $500 and $1000 mark will be adequate. If you buy online, you’re also going to receive much better value for money and a lower retail markup.
Looking for something cheaper? Take a look at the best mattress under 500 dollars.
Final Verdict
There is a king size mattress out there for everyone, regardless of your budget. We have tested and chosen what we believe to be the best king size mattress available, allowing you to make your new mattress purchase as straightforward and as hassle free as possible.
Simply figure out your firmness preference and correlate that with your usual sleeping position and we guarantee that you’ll be sleeping comfortably for years to come.
