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

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.

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.

Is a Split King Smaller Than a Regular King Mattress?

The answer is no. Split kings are actually two twin XL mattresses arranged side-by-side to create a single larger bed. It’s the same size as a traditional king bed, but with the added customization options.

Can You Cuddle on a Split King Adjustable Bed?

One of the best options for couples, split king beds are a favorite here at GhostBed. In fact, my wife Donna and I sleep on one every night. And as we (and many of our customers) can attest to, you can definitely still cuddle on a split king bed.

For some people, however, you might just prefer the feel of one full mattress. To make your decision, think about your usual routine and what will fit with your preferences. But don’t worry—even if you go with a split king, you’re not stuck. As we mentioned before, you’ve got options if you want to use your bed as a normal king.

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

A commonly perceived problem with split king beds is the split down the middle. Will you end up rolling into it in the middle of the night? Is it annoying?

The good news is, most customers won’t feel any sort of separation. Our mattresses are designed to fit snugly together, so it’s not really an issue.

If you do feel a gap, here are a few ideas to try:

• Secure the legs of both bases together with velcro straps (included with the GhostBed Adjustable Base) or bungee cords
• Add non-slip furniture coasters under your base
• Add a headboard to secure your two bases together

If you do feel a gap, here are a few ideas to try:

• Purchase a “bed wedge” or “gap filler” to place in the middle of the two beds
• Use a king-size memory foam topper on top

With the two ideas above, we recommend syncing your bases and using your bed as if it were a normal king size.

Is a Split King Adjustable Worth the Investment?

A split king adjustable bed is absolutely worth the investment if you're looking for luxury and total customization! Sure, it will cost more than a traditional king mattress and foundation. But with this type of setup, you have access to all sorts of features:

• Six preset positions perfect for relaxation and recovery
• Head and foot massage, with multiple modes and settings
• Two wireless remote controls
• Under-bed LED lights
• The ability to save your own custom position

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

Adjustability &
flexibility is important

Yes

Being on the same mattress
as my partner is important

Split King

Traditional
King

No

Yes

Traditional
King

Split King

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!

Split King Adjustable Set

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

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