California King VS. Twin XL – What’s The Difference?

There are six different standard mattress sizes available on the market. Each one addresses different requirements and has its own benefits and drawbacks. In this article, we’ll be looking at the difference between California king and twin XL sizes, their pros and cons, as well as who they’re best suited for. Each of these sizes is very different from each other not only in terms of their dimensions but also in their suitability for different situations. 

So without further ado, let’s get into the details. 

California King Mattress

The Cal king is the second largest mattress on the market today. It’s longer and narrower compared to the more popular king size, but it also offers a little less surface area for sleep. 

Cal king mattresses are great for taller sleepers and couples who appreciate extra leg space. They’re also good for people whose bedrooms are shaped more like a rectangle rather than a square. However, because of their unusual shape and low demand, it can be hard to find accessories compatible with Cal king mattresses. Keep these things in mind when considering a Cal King mattress.

Size

California king beds are spacious and can even fit a small family. The dimensions are 72 inches wide 84 inches long. This size is good for sharing, even if you are an active sleeper or prefer extra sleeping space. A Cal king is big enough to accommodate you, your partner, and even a child while still providing restful sleep.

Room Recommendation 

Simply Rest highly recommends a room size that’s no smaller than 14 feet by 12 feet for a California king size mattress. A room that’s 14 by 12 feet will not only provide sufficient space for walking around the mattress itself, but it will also leave enough room for other bedroom furniture. 

Price

Though California kings are harder to find than standard mattress sizes, the average price still varies. Quality materials and good design can inflate the price tag. 

Pros & Cons 

Pros of a Cal king size mattress:

• Perfect for taller sleepers
• Amazing for couples that want extra leg space
• Good choice for long and narrow bedrooms
• A great choice for master bedrooms

Cons of a Cal king size mattress:

• Requires a lot of floor space
• Can be very expensive
• More difficult to find bedsheets and other sleeping accessories for

Twin XL Mattress

Twin XL mattresses are similar in size to twin beds, only they’re slightly longer to offer you more leg space. It’s a popular mattress size for smaller guest rooms, kids’ rooms and bunk beds, and even hotels and college dorm rooms because it doesn’t require much room.

A twin XL bed only has enough space to fit a single person at the time, as it’s pretty narrow. Even then, heavy single sleepers might find themselves struggling to be comfortable because the mattress is so small.  At 38 inches in width, the twin XL bed doesn’t provide much surface area for sleeping. Therefore, we don’t recommend a mattress of this size for adults who are planning to sleep on it long-term. 

Size

A twin XL bed is 38 inches wide and 80 inches long. It’s narrow yet functional, especially for a short-term sleeping arrangement (such as in a guest bedroom bed or a hotel room). 

Twin XLs are also a popular choice for kids, teenagers, and college students. They are wide enough to accommodate a smaller body and long enough to take care of the growth spurs that teenagers experience. This bed can conveniently fit into most small spaces.

Room Recommendation 

A twin XL mattress will fit perfectly into a room that’s at least 8 feet by 10 feet. This size will not only provide the recommended 2 feet of empty floor space around the bed but it will also allow you to have other bedroom furniture too. 

Price

The price of a twin XL mattress can range from $200 to $2000 or more. It all depends on the manufacturing process, the materials it’s made from, and even the brand’s reputation.

Pros & Cons 

Pros of a twin XL size mattress:

• More budget-friendly
• Right size for smaller rooms
• Cost-effective sleeping accessories
• A great choice for master bedrooms
• The extra length makes it a good option for taller people

Cons of a twin XL mattress:

• Too small for couples
• Can be too small for some single adults 

So is a California King or a Twin XL Mattress better?

A California king size bed takes up a lot of room and it’s large enough to fit a small family. A twin XL mattress doesn’t need much floor space and can only comfortably fit one sleeper. 

The main thing these two bed sizes have in common is that they’re both “longer” versions their standard counterparts. The Cal king size is essentially a longer version of the king size, while the twin XL is a longer version of the twin bed. In the end, finding a new mattress that’s right for you comes down to your personal preferences and needs.