We have customers ask at least once a week what the difference is between a California King and a standard or Eastern King mattress.  A California king mattress is smaller than a regular King mattress.  A California King is 72” x 84”, while a standard King is 76” x 80”.  In other words, the California King is 4 inches longer, but also 4 inches narrower.  A standard king has more overall surface area and more space between partners than a California King mattress does.California King vs. King Mattress - A Buyer's Guide

Reasons for Choosing a Standard King Mattress

  • There is often the misconception that California King is larger than a standard King, when by most metrics, it is smaller.
  • You will have an easier time finding sheets for a standard King mattress.
  • Shopping for a mattress, most mattress stores stock standard king vs. California so you will have more choices.
  • King is bigger than a California King, so you will have more space.

Reasons for Choosing a California King Mattress

  • If you are tall, California King mattress is great since it is 4” longer than a standard King mattress.
  • If you have a long but narrow bedroom, a California King mattress may actually fit the room better.
  • Since California King are harder to come by, you may get lucky with a discount on a California King mattress a store is trying to sell off because it is less preferred to the standard King size.

In conclusion, a standard King mattress is easier to find, easier to find sheets and bedding for, and offers more surface area.  If you are tall or need a longer but narrower king mattress for your bedroom space, California King mattress may work better for you.