King vs. Split King: The Sleep Experts Help You Decide

Last Updated on March 22, 2024

by Marc Werner, Founder - GhostBed

Is your current mattress just not cutting it anymore? It may be time for an upgrade!

If a new bed is in order, one of the first things you’ll decide is what size to get. And if you’re used to a king, you’ve got another option to consider: the split king.

But what exactly are split king beds? What are the pros and cons when you’re comparing it to a regular king? In this blog post, we’ll explain the key differences to help you decide.

 A young couple gets ready to relax on their GhostBed Split King Set.

Who Should Consider a King-Size Mattress?

A king-size bed might be perfect if you want space while sleeping but still want to share a mattress. This 76” by 80” bed will give you enough elbow room to roll around without annoying your sleep partner. This size mattress can accommodate your pets or kids, too!

Tip: If you’re upgrading from a smaller size, make sure you’ve got the right amount of space before you purchase. The recommended room size for a king bed starts at 13 feet by 13 feet, and you’ll need to account for other furniture around your bed.

Who Should Consider a Split King?

There’s a reason our split king is a best-seller for couples! When paired with an adjustable bed base, a split king allows you to customize your position without disturbing your partner. This makes a split king perfect if you’re on different sleep schedules or if you like to sleep in different positions.

Just imagine it: you want to stay up late watching TV, but your partner prefers to sleep late. Or maybe your husband prefers to elevate his torso to combat snoring, but you love the zero gravity position. With a split king adjustable base, the world is your oyster!

Another major advantage of having your own mattress is that you won’t have to deal with any motion transfer. If your partner is a restless sleeper, a split king may be just what you need for better sleep.

King vs. Split King: Our Tips on Choosing

Still stuck on what to decide? No worries. We usually guide customers through a few questions:

  • What’s the most important feature you’re looking for in your bed?
  • Would you like the ability to adjust your bed separately from your partner?
  • Would you prefer to be on the same mattress as your partner?
  • Do you have a different sleep style than your partner, and would you prefer two different mattresses to accommodate that?

If you’re not totally sure, keep this in mind: with a split king, you have the gift of flexibility. You can always turn your split king into a king, but you can’t turn a king into a split king!

To turn your split king into a king, all you’ll need to do is sync your bases and purchase something to bridge the gap, like a king-size mattress topper.

King vs. Split King FAQs

You've got questions about kings and split kings, and we have the answers! Our GhostBed Sleep Experts are the authorities on all things sleep-related. Read on to tap into our collective expertise for advice you can trust.

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Is a Split King Smaller Than a Regular King Mattress?

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Can You Cuddle on a Split King Adjustable Bed?

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Will I Feel the Separation Down the Middle of a Split King?

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Is a Split King Adjustable Worth the Investment?

King Vs. Split King Decision Tree

Now that we’ve gone over the differences and some of the FAQs, it’s time to make your decision. If you’re still mulling it over, take a look at the graphic below for a recap.

King vs. Split King
Decision Tree

What's most important to you?

Adjustability &
flexibility is important
No
Yes
Traditional
King
Split King
Being on the same mattress
as my partner is important
No
Yes
Split King
Traditional
King

Tip: We suggest you and your partner review this decision tree together. Your priorities may differ. Most of our customers, however, do end up going with a Split King Adjustable Set. It’s a luxurious upgrade that you won’t regret. (Just take a look at all the 5-star reviews!)

Still have questions? We’re here to help. Call or chat with our Sleep Experts today!

GhostBed Adjustable Bed Base in the Split King size

Split King Adjustable Set

Enjoy customized luxury on each side of the bed with GhostBed’s Split King Adjustable Set.

Shop Now

Marc Werner - Founder, GhostBed

Marc Werner

Founder - GhostBed

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Marc has spent the last two decades designing & manufacturing mattresses and other sleep products, drawing on a lifetime of experience working with the material sciences. With several patents to his name, he works closely with the GhostBed team to create products with the perfect balance of comfort & support. Learn More

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