King vs Queen Bed: Is Bigger Necessarily Better?
King vs Queen is one of the most debated choices when buying a new bed. While King beds are often assumed to be the most comfortable, and Queen beds are seen as the only option for smaller rooms, is that really the case?
It’s time to bust some marketing-driven myths and get to the real factors that matter when choosing the right mattress. King bed, King bed, King bed—sounds like the best decision ever? Well, let’s take a step back.
The Key Difference — It’s Not Just About Size
Most mattress guides will tell you that the only difference between a King and a Queen bed is width. While that’s technically true, there’s more to consider than just numbers.
Here’s how they compare in New Zealand’s standard mattress sizes:
- Queen Size: 152 cm (W) × 203 cm (L)
- King Size: 167 cm (W) × 203 cm (L)
If you share a bed, that extra 15 cm in a King bed gives you just 7.5 cm more per person. But does that really improve your sleep?
A study by the Better Sleep Council (BSC) found that only 25% of people sleep on a King bed, while 47% sleep on a Queen bed【Ref: Better Sleep Council】. If nearly half of all sleepers find Queen size comfortable, why go bigger?
Does a Bigger Bed Actually Improve Sleep?
People often assume that getting a bigger bed automatically means better sleep. But in reality, mattress firmness and support matter far more than size alone【Ref: Sleep Foundation】.
When Does a King Bed Make Sense?
- If you or your partner move a lot at night, the extra width can reduce disturbances.
- If you share your bed with kids or pets, the extra space helps.
- If your bedroom is at least 3.5m × 3.5m, a King bed won’t dominate the room.
However, if none of these apply to you, a Queen bed is likely more than enough. 152 cm of width is plenty for most couples while still leaving room for other bedroom furniture.
Why Room Size is More Important Than You Think
Before purchasing a King size mattress, ask yourself:
- Will I have enough space to walk around?
- Will my bedroom still feel open, or will the bed take over the entire room?
- Do I really need a bigger bed, or am I just following a trend?
For most New Zealand homes, a Queen size bed is a better fit. In a room smaller than 3.5m × 3.5m, a King bed can make the space feel cramped and impractical.
On the other hand, a Queen bed in a 3m × 3m room leaves extra space for bedside tables, wardrobes, or even a reading chair【Ref: Consumer Reports】.
Is a King Bed Worth the Extra Cost?
A bigger bed doesn’t just cost more upfront—it’s more expensive in every aspect, from the bed frame to the bedding.
- Mattress Price: A King bed typically costs 20-40% more than a Queen.
- Bedding Expenses: Sheets, duvets, and blankets for a King cost significantly more than for a Queen.
- Furniture & Room Design: A King bed may require a larger frame, bigger bedside tables, and a different bedroom layout.
For budget-conscious buyers, a high-quality Queen bed is often a better investment than a lower-end King【Ref: Sleep Foundation】.
Is a King Bed Practical for Your Lifestyle?
One of the biggest disadvantages of King size beds is that they are much harder to move.
- If you live in a small apartment, a Queen bed is easier to get through doorways and staircases.
- If you move often, transporting a King size mattress can be a nightmare.
- If your bedroom has an awkward layout, a Queen bed allows for more flexibility【Ref: Consumer Reports】.
Unless you plan to stay in the same home for years, a Queen is often the smarter choice.
So, Should You Get a King or a Queen?
Choose a King If:
✔ You have a large bedroom (at least 3.5m × 3.5m).
✔ You sleep with kids or pets in your bed.
✔ You or your partner toss and turn a lot and need extra space.
Choose a Queen If:
✔ You want a balance of comfort, affordability, and practicality.
✔ Your bedroom is smaller than 3.5m × 3.5m, and you want extra space for furniture.
✔ You move frequently and need a mattress that’s easier to transport.
Final Thoughts: Do You Really Need a King Bed?
The idea that bigger always means better isn’t always true. A well-designed Queen size mattress can offer just as much comfort, often at a lower cost and with better space efficiency.
If you have a large bedroom and budget, a King bed may be worth it. But for most people, a high-quality Queen bed offers the best mix of comfort, affordability, and practicality.
At TreasureBox, we focus on practical, high-quality beds that fit real customer needs—not just selling the biggest size available.
So, is a King bed really necessary? Or is a Queen bed the smarter choice? Now, you have the facts to decide for yourself.
References:
- Better Sleep Council – Mattress Popularity Study (BetterSleep.org)
- Sleep Foundation – Mattress Size Guide (SleepFoundation.org)
- Harvard Medical School – The Science of Sleep (Harvard.edu)
- Consumer Reports – Bedroom Layout & Space Efficiency (ConsumerReports.org)
- Sleep Advisor – Best Mattress for Small Rooms (SleepAdvisor.org)