For people who are over six feet (183 cm) tall, the extra length of a California king can feel nice. Ultimately, California king beds are not too different from standard king size beds, but some may appreciate their slightly different dimensions. As such, neither king size beds nor California king beds are very practical for the bedrooms found in most apartments and small homes, where queen or full size beds tend to be more appropriate. There should be at least two feet (61 cm) of walkable space around a bed frame in a room. They are usually the same size as typical California king beds but may sometimes be two inches (5 cm) narrower and shorter. California king size beds are more common than standard king sizes for waterbeds.

Waterbeds have fallen out of favor in recent years, but some do still exist.This can be a frustrating realization for those who are unaware of this unique sizing. It is worth noting that their king size mattresses are a half-inch to inch (1.27 cm to 2.5 cm) shorter than the standard king size. IKEA does not offer California king size mattresses, but they do sell king and queen size mattresses.

There is no split version of the California king. The split king is often two inches (5 cm) wider than the standard king, meaning the two halves are 30' x 80' (76 cm x 203 cm).

It is possible to buy a 'split king' bed, a king size bed that is literally divided down its center for optimum maneuverability.

A graphical representation of the various standard bed sizes available in the U.S.

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