Alaskan King Bed vs King: Which One Is Right for You?
Bigger is not always better. But sometimes, it really is.
If you have ever woken up clinging to the edge of your bed while your partner and dog take over the rest, you already know the problem.
So, is a standard King enough, or do you need the sheer size of an Alaskan King? The answer is not as obvious as you think. And getting it wrong means spending thousands on a bed that does not work for your room or your life.
In this blog, we cover the size differences, costs, room requirements, bedding needs, and which bed actually fits your life.
What Is a Standard King Bed?
The standard King bed, also called the Eastern King, is the most popular bed size for couples who want enough room to sleep without feeling squeezed. It gives both sleepers personal space and fits well in most master bedrooms without taking over the entire room.
Dimensions:
- Width: 76 inches
- Length: 80 inches
- Total Area: 42.22 square feet (6’4” x 6’8”)
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Standard size found in most homes | Can feel tight for taller individuals over 6’4″ |
| Widely available at affordable price points | Limited room for families who co-sleep with kids or pets |
| Easy to find mattresses, frames, and bedding | Not the best fit for very large bedrooms |
| Fits comfortably in most master bedrooms | Two people plus a pet can make it feel cramped fast |
What Is an Alaskan King Bed?
The Alaskan King is one of the largest beds you can buy. It is built for people who want serious space, whether that means co-sleeping with kids, sharing with pets, or simply stretching out without a care. It is a true statement piece for anyone who refuses to compromise on comfort.
Dimensions:
- Width: 108 inches
- Length: 108 inches
- Total Area: 66 square feet (9’ x 9’)
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fits families, pets, and multiple sleepers with ease | Needs a large bedroom, at least 12×12 ft or bigger |
| Great for very tall individuals who need extra length | Comes with a high price tag compared to standard sizes |
| Makes any large bedroom feel like a luxury retreat | Custom bedding, frames, and accessories are hard to find |
Alaskan King Bed vs King: Side-by-Side Size Comparison
Both beds offer solid sleeping space, but the gap between them is bigger than most people expect. Here is a clear, point-by-point look at how the Alaskan King bed vs King stacks up across the details that matter most.
1. Size
The Alaskan King is 108 inches wide and 108 inches long. A standard King measures 76 inches wide and 80 inches long. That is an extra 32 inches of width and 28 inches of length, a difference you will feel the moment you lie down.
2. Surface Area
The Alaskan King gives you 66 square feet of sleeping space. A standard King offers 42 square feet. That is nearly 60% more room, which makes a real difference for restless sleepers or anyone who shares the bed.
3. Room Fit
A standard King bed slides into most master bedrooms with little planning. The Alaskan King needs a room at least 12×12 feet, ideally larger, to leave enough floor space around it to move freely.
4. Comfort for Multiple Sleepers
A standard King works well for two adults with an occasional pet or child. The Alaskan King is built for more; it handles two adults, kids, and pets without anyone feeling pushed to the edge.
5. Accessibility
You can walk into almost any furniture or mattress store and find a standard King. The Alaskan King is a different story. Mattresses, frames, and bedding for this size are mostly custom-made, which requires more time, effort, and budget to assemble.
Alaskan King Bed Compared to Other Bed Sizes
The Alaskan King does not just outsize a standard King. It stands apart from nearly every other large bed on the market. Here is how it compares to the other big names in the bed size world.
California King
- The California King measures 72 inches wide and 84 inches long, making it the go-to for tall sleepers.
- The Alaskan King is wider at 108 inches, giving far more room across the bed.
- The California King suits one or two tall adults well, but the Alaskan King wins when the whole family wants to pile in.
Super King
- Super King beds are popular across Europe and typically measure around 72 to 76 inches wide.
- The Alaskan King matches or exceeds it in width and adds more length, reaching 108 inches on both sides.
- If you want a bed that goes beyond what a Super King offers, the Alaskan King is the clear step up.
Texas King
- The Texas King is wide but measures about 80 inches in length, shorter than the Alaskan King’s 108 inches.
- Taller individuals will notice the length gap right away when comparing the two.
- For larger families or very tall sleepers, the Alaskan King offers more usable space overall.
Cost of Alaskan King vs Standard King
Size is not the only big difference between these two beds. The price gap is just as wide, and knowing what to expect before you shop can save you from a surprise later.
| Cost Factor | Standard King | Alaskan King |
|---|---|---|
| Mattress Price Range | $500 to $2,000 | $2,000 to $6,000 or more |
| Bed Frame | Readily available at standard prices | Often custom-built, adds to the total cost |
| Bedding | Easy to find, budget-friendly options available | Custom sizing required, limited options |
| Overall Affordability | Budget-friendly across most price points | Considered a luxury purchase |
| Availability | Found in most furniture and mattress stores | Mostly special order or custom-made |
Practical Considerations: Space, Bedding, and Frames
Picking the right bed size goes beyond just comfort. You also need to consider your room, your furniture, and everything that comes with the bed. Here is what you need to know before making a decision.
Room Size Requirements
- A standard King bed fits well in a room at least 10×10 feet.
- The Alaskan King needs at least 12×12 feet, with more space preferred.
- Extra floor room around the Alaskan King is important for nightstands, dressers, and easy movement.
Furniture Fit
- Standard King pairs well with regular-size bedroom furniture without any special planning.
- The Alaskan King works better with wider furniture pieces that match its scale.
- Oversized dressers and chairs help the room feel balanced rather than overcrowded.
Bedding
- Standard King sheets, duvets, and pillows are easy to find at any bedding store and are reasonably priced.
- Alaskan King bedding must be custom-ordered, mostly online, and can cost two to three times as much as standard King bedding.
- Finding the right fit takes more time, so plan ahead before your bed arrives.
Frames and Support
- Standard King frames are widely available and come in many styles and price ranges.
- The Alaskan King requires a reinforced or custom-built frame to properly handle its size and weight.
- Regular frames are not built to support an Alaskan King, so cutting corners here is not a good idea.
Which One to Consider?
The right bed comes down to your lifestyle, your room, and your budget. Here is a simple way to think about it.
Choose an Alaskan King if you have a large bedroom of at least 12×12 feet, share your bed with kids, pets, or multiple sleepers, or simply want the most space possible. It is also a great fit for tall individuals and those who are happy to invest in custom bedding and frames for a more comfortable sleep setup.
Choose a Standard King if your bedroom is on the smaller side or if you are working with a set budget. It is the practical choice for two adults who want comfort without the added cost or effort of sourcing custom accessories. You get solid comfort, easy access to bedding and furniture, and a size that works well in most homes.
Summing It Up
At the end of the day, the Alaskan King bed vs King debate has no single right answer. It all depends on your space, your sleep style, and what you are willing to spend.
A standard King works well for most couples and fits easily into the average bedroom. The Alaskan King is for those who want more, more room, more comfort, and more of everything.
Both are solid choices; it comes down to what your bedroom and lifestyle actually need. Think about your room size and budget first.
Have questions or already made your choice? Drop a comment below and let us know which bed won you over.
