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Alaskan King Vs. California King: Which Oversized Mattress is Right for You?

By: Christina Davies
Updated on: January 29, 2025
FAST FACTS

  • When choosing between an Alaskan King and a California King bed, consider factors like room size, budget, the number of sleeping partners, individual height and weight, and preferred sleeping position.

  • The Alaskan King bed offers the most space, making it ideal for large families with spacious bedrooms, but it comes with a higher price tag and room size requirements.

  • The California King bed is more affordable, readily available, and suitable for couples who prefer extra legroom, and it can fit comfortably in smaller bedrooms.

  • Other oversized mattress options like the Texas King and Wyoming King cater to specific preferences and room sizes.

  • Custom bedding and accessories are available for these oversized beds, and eco-friendly options exist for those with sustainability concerns. Making the right choice ultimately depends on your unique needs and priorities.

When it comes to finding the perfect mattress, size matters. And for those seeking a spacious sleeping experience, the choice often comes down to a California King or an Alaskan King. These oversized mattresses offer ample space for couples, families, and even pets to stretch out and get a comfortable night’s sleep. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the differences between the California King and Alaskan King beds, helping you decide which one is right for you.

What is an Alaskan King Bed?

An Alaskan King bed is an oversized mattress and bed frame designed for those who desire an exceptionally spacious sleeping surface. This mattress size is among the largest available, surpassing both California King and standard King beds in size.

The dimensions of an Alaskan King bed typically measure around 108 inches (274 cm) in width and 108 inches (274 cm) in length, making it a square-shaped mattress. This substantial size provides ample space for multiple sleepers or those wanting an expansive and luxurious sleeping area.

Because of its extraordinary size, Alaskan King beds are not commonly found in most retail stores and may need to be custom-made. Due to their enormous dimensions, these beds require a significant amount of space in a bedroom, so it’s essential to ensure you have enough other room space to accommodate one.

Alaskan King beds are often chosen family beds by individuals or couples who have spacious master bedrooms and want the ultimate in sleeping comfort and space. However, they are not a practical choice for smaller bedrooms or spaces with limited square footage.

Pros of an Alaskan King Bed

  • Generous sleeping space: The Alaskan King bed provides ample room for couples who enjoy their personal space while sleeping. It’s also an excellent option for families who co-sleep with their children and pets.
  • Long-lasting enjoyment: Investing in an Alaskan King bed ensures you’ll have plenty of space to stretch out and relax for years.
  • Suitable for larger individuals: The size of an Alaskan King bed makes it ideal for taller or plus-sized individuals who require extra room and support while sleeping.

Cons of an Alaskan King Bed

  • Requires a spacious bedroom: An Alaskan King bed may not fit comfortably in smaller bedrooms due to its massive dimensions. It’s essential to have a clutter-free space and enough room for movement around the bed.
  • Higher cost: The Alaskan King bed is the largest and most expensive mattress. It’s important to consider your budget before investing in this oversized option.

What is the California King Bed?

A California King bed, often called a “Cal King” or “Western of King size bed,” is a type of mattress and bed frame that is longer and slightly narrower than a standard King-size bed. California King beds are designed to provide extra length, making them suitable for taller individuals or those who prefer more legroom while sleeping.

A California king-size bed typically measures approximately 72 inches (183 cm) in width and 84 inches (213 cm) in length. This contrasts with a standard King bed, which measures about 76 inches (193 cm) in width and 80 inches (203 cm) in length. While a California-made King-sized bed offers more length, it is narrower, which can be considered when choosing bedding and bedroom furniture.

It’s essential to note that the availability of California King mattresses and bed frames may vary depending on your location, as they are more commonly found in certain regions, such as the western United States. When selecting a bed size, it’s crucial to consider your personal preferences, room size, and any bedding you already have or plan to purchase.

Pros of a California King Bed

  • Reasonable price: California King mattresses are generally more affordable than other oversized options, making them accessible to a wide range of individuals.
  • Easy to find: Unlike some specialty sizes, California King mattresses are readily available at most mattress dealerships, alongside standard King and Queen beds.
  • Fits smaller bedrooms: The slightly narrower dimensions of a California King bed make it easier to fit into smaller bedrooms, providing a luxurious sleeping space without overwhelming the room.

Cons of a California King Bed

  • Limited space for larger families: A California King bed can provide comfortable space for two adults and even accommodate a child or pet, but it might not be the ideal option for larger families in need of an extra sleeping room.
  • Less width than Alaskan King: If you prefer a bed with extra width, the California King may not offer as much room as an Alaskan King.

Our Mattress Recommendation: If you’re considering a California King bed, we highly recommend the Amerisleep AS3. This mattress is available in a California King size and is suitable for various sleeping styles. With its medium firmness and innovative features like Bio-Pur® memory foam and HIVE® technology, the AS3 provides excellent pressure relief and support for a restful night’s sleep. Furthermore, it includes a 100-night sleep trial and a 20-year warranty.

Alaskan King Bed vs. California King Bed: Key Differences

ParameterCalifornia KingAlaskan King
LengthA cozy 84 inchesA cozy 84-inches
WidthA generous 72 inchesAn extravagant 108-inches
Surface AreaRoom to sprawl, 6,048 square inches for royaltyLavish indulgence, 11,664 square inches average
Price RangeAffordable luxury, $1,500 – $2,500Lavish indulgence, $3,000 – $6,000
Minimum Room Size12 feet x 12 feet16 feet x 16 feet
Best forSmall familiesLarge families and side sleepers

When deciding between a California traditional King bed and an Alaskan King bed, several factors come into play. Let’s examine the key differences to help you make an informed decision.

Room Size

One of the most critical considerations when choosing between these two oversized mattresses is the size of your bedroom. While a California King bed can fit comfortably in an average-sized bedroom, an Alaskan King bed size requires a much larger space. The dimensions of an Alaskan King bed necessitate 15-20 feet of wall space on each side of the bed, creating a grand and spacious sleeping area.

Budget

The cost is another crucial factor to consider when buying a larger-than-standard mattress. Generally, California King mattresses are more affordable compared to Alaskan King beds. The average cost of a California King mattress ranges from $700 to $4,000, whereas an Alaskan King mattress typically costs between $2,000 and $7,000. When budgeting for an oversized mattress, it’s essential to factor in the cost of additional items like bed frames, pillows, and bedding.

Sleeping Partner

Your sleeping arrangements and preferences are crucial in determining the right mattress size. A California King bed provides ample space for two adults and a child or pet. It’s also an excellent choice for couples with different sleeping habits and who prefer extra room. In contrast to the Cal King mattress, an Alaskan King bed is best for those who want to co-sleep with their partner, children, and even pets while still enjoying their own sleeping area.

Your Height and Weight

Take your height and weight into account when choosing a mattress size. The California King bed is perfect for tall individuals requiring added length to ensure their feet don’t dangle over the bed’s edge. It’s also suitable for plus-sized sleepers who require more space to spread out and sleep comfortably. On the other hand, an Alaskan King bed is a fantastic option for both tall and plus-sized individuals, providing ample room for relaxation and support.

Ideal Sleeping Position

Your preferred sleeping position and the amount of personal space you desire are essential to consider when choosing a mattress. A California King bed is recommended for couples who prefer sleeping closer together, as it offers spacious rooms and a cozy sleeping experience. In contrast, an Alaskan King bed is ideal for couples who enjoy having more space while still sleeping close to their partners. It provides the perfect balance between personal space and shared sleeping arrangements.

Where to Find Oversized Mattresses

alaskan king vs california king, cal king size bed

Finding oversized mattresses like the Alaskan King, Wyoming King, or Texas King can be challenging, as they are not widely available at traditional mattress stores. However, you can identify companies specializing in creating these unique sizes with some research. Some boutique bedding companies are willing to create custom oversized mattresses to meet your specific needs and preferences.

It’s important to consider the type of mattress you prefer, such as latex, memory foam, innerspring, or hybrid, as you explore your options for oversized beds. Additionally, don’t forget to look for compatible foundations, bed frames, and bedding accessories designed specifically for oversized mattresses. If you can’t find suitable flat or fitted sheets, consider customizing them to ensure a perfect fit.

Other Oversized Mattress Options

In addition to the California King and Alaskan King beds, several other oversized mattress options are worth mentioning.

Texas King Bed

As the second-largest state in the United States, Texas also has its king-size bed, appropriately named the Texas King. With dimensions of 80 inches in width and 98 inches in length, the Texas King bed provides an extra 14 inches in length compared to a standard King bed. This extra length makes it an excellent choice for taller individuals who need more legroom.

Wyoming King Bed

The Wyoming King bed is essentially a wider version of a California King bed. Measuring 84 inches on all sides, it provides more personal sleeping space than a California King mattress. This oversized bed is a great option for taller sleepers who want extra space without sacrificing width. Occasionally, the Wyoming King mattress may also be referred to as an emperor-sized mattress.

FAQs about Alaskan King Vs. California King

Which One is Bigger: California King or Alaskan King?

The Alaskan king-size bed, with dimensions of 108 inches by 108 inches, is significantly more spacious than the California king bed, which measures 72 inches by 84 inches. The Alaskan king bed surpasses the California king in both width and length, making it the largest mattress size you can find.

Which bed is better for couples?

The California King is the preferred choice for couples due to its spaciousness and manageable size.

Can I fit an Alaskan King in a regular bedroom?

An Alaskan King bed requires a generously sized master bedroom to avoid cramming the room.

Are there any unique accessories available for Alaskan King beds?

You can find custom headboards and bedding designed specifically for Alaskan King beds.

Do Alaskan King and California King beds come in various materials?

Both bed sizes are available in various wood, metal, and upholstered options.

Are these bed sizes suitable for taller individuals?

The California King is ideal for taller individuals as it offers extra length.

Are there any eco-friendly options available for these beds?

Many manufacturers offer eco-friendly and sustainable options for both Alaskan King and California King beds.

Conclusion

Choosing between a California or king-size mattress and an Alaskan King bed is a personal choice that hinges on your individual requirements and preferences. If you have a smaller bedroom or prefer a mattress that offers extra length without sacrificing too much width, a California King bed may be the right choice. On the other hand, if you have a large family, a spacious bedroom, and the budget to support it, an Alaskan King bed can provide the ultimate sleeping experience.

When deciding, consider factors such as room size, budget, sleeping partners, height and weight, and ideal sleeping position. And don’t forget to explore other oversized options like the Texas King and Wyoming King beds if they better suit your needs. With careful consideration, you can find the perfect oversized mattress to ensure a luxurious and comfortable night’s sleep for years.

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