What Is a Split King & Do I Need One?
Perfect sleep for everyone.
There are a lot of choices when it comes to buying a mattress, from the firmness scale to the type of material, and even your comfort level. That being said, did you know there is an entire mattress option many people haven't even heard of before? So what is a split king and what benefits does it have to offer that a normal king doesn't? Keep reading to find out.
Tip!
For some extra help, head about the mattress firmness scale to better understand what will work for you.
What Is a Split King?
A split king mattress is a king mattress split down the middle, or more accurately, two twin XL mattresses placed side by side on one bed. Split king mattresses allow for ultimate customization of mattress firmness and material, so each sleeper gets a mattress that truly fits their needs. There are also split king adjustable beds that allow you to adjust the position of each side independently, typically raising either the head or feet.
Split King Dimensions
- A split king mattress consists of two twin XL mattresses, each measuring 38" wide x 80" long, for a combined width of 76" (compared to a standard king at 76" x 80").
- A split California king consists of two twin XL mattresses, each measuring 36" wide x 84" long, for a combined width of 72".
- Due to the split down the middle, each person will essentially get to sleep on one twin XL mattress.
- The split king requires different bottom sheets than a standard king. You can buy either split king sheet sets or a pair of twin XL sheets.
Do You Need a Split King?
If you and your partner have different firmness preferences, are sensitive to motion transfer, want to use adjustable bases, or have different sleep schedules, a split king is likely a great choice for you. Here are some other reasons you might want to go with a split kind mattress.
- King Experience: When you sleep on a split king, you get all the benefits of a single bed like the ability to cuddle or lie close.
- Twin XL Benefits: With a split king, you also get to experience the pros of a twin XL mattress completely to yourself. So you can personalize your side of the bed to your precise needs.
- Low Motion Transfer: This is ideal when one of the sleepers tosses and turns, the other is a light sleeper, or even if you go to bed at different times. Low motion transfer means you can move as you need and it won't disrupt the other person while they sleep.
- Customize Bedding: If you need flannel sheets for warmth, but your partner is a hot sleeper, you can each choose sheets that match your unique preferences.
- Add Adjustable Base: For the ultimate individual sleep experience, you can pair your split king or split california king with an adjustable base. This way you can position each mattress in any way at any time. If you like reading or watching TV while sitting up, your partner can enjoy their own reclined mattress at the same time.
Tip!
If lying on the split bothers you, use a mattress topper to even it out. However, this limits the mobility of an adjustable split king unless you remove the topper.
Who Should Buy a Split King?
A split king mattress is ideal for:
- Couples with different firmness preferences: Each partner can choose their own mattress firmness.
- Light sleepers: Reduced motion transfer means less disturbance from a restless partner.
- Those wanting adjustable bases: Each side can be positioned independently for reading, watching TV, or elevating legs.
- Partners with different sleep schedules: One person can adjust their side without waking the other.
Pros and Cons of Split King Mattresses
Pros:
- Personalized firmness and feel for each sleeper
- Excellent motion isolation
- Compatible with adjustable bases for independent positioning
- Allows different bedding for temperature preferences
- Ideal for couples with different sleep schedules
Cons:
- May have a slight gap in the middle
- Requires special sheets (split king or two Twin XL sets)
- Typically more expensive than a single king mattress
- Less ideal for couples who prefer sleeping close together
Frequently Asked Questions
What sheets fit a split king?
Split king beds require either dedicated split king sheet sets or two separate Twin XL fitted sheets. You can use a standard king flat sheet and comforter on top.
Can you feel the gap in a split king?
Most sleepers do not notice the gap between the two mattresses. If the gap is bothersome, a king-size mattress topper can be placed over both mattresses to create a seamless surface.
Do you need a special bed frame for a split king?
A split king works best with a split king adjustable base or a standard king bed frame. The two Twin XL mattresses sit side by side on the frame just like a regular king mattress would.
