There’s a simple solution for couples who can’t agree on a mattress: the split king. A split king gives you the best of both worlds. With a split king, you can share a bed with your partner while you each sleep on a mattress that’s perfect for your own individual sleeping positions and preferences. Our team picked the best split king mattress models based on their performance during testing trials in our Seattle-based sleep lab.
Best Split King Mattresses
-
Best Overall Mattress
–
Nolah Evolution 15
View Details
-
Best Value Mattress
–
Nectar Mattress
View Details
-
Best Luxury Mattress
–
Solaire
View Details
-
Best Mattress for Couples
–
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
View Details
-
Best Mattress for Back Pain
–
Bear Elite Hybrid
View Details
-
Best Cooling Mattress
–
PlushBeds Botanical Bliss
View Details
Swipe for more
Best Overall Mattress
Nolah Evolution 15
Black Friday early access: 35% off mattresses + 2 free pillows
Black Friday early access: 35% off mattresses + 2 free pillows
The Nolah Evolution 15 checked many boxes during our tests. Three firmness levels and a balanced hybrid construction ensured a comfortable model for most of our testing team. Cooling infusions, ArcticTex cover, and breathable coils also made the mattress popular with our hot-sleeping testers.
Ideal For
Hot Sleepers
Firmness
Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Feel
Plush, Supportive Surface
Value
Good Value
Pros & Cons
-
Pros
-
Extra lumbar support thanks to the tri-zone coil system
-
Hybrid design and cooling features regulate temperature well
-
Perimeter reinforcement boosts edge support
-
-
Cons
-
Firmer models don’t provide the “hug” feeling some sleepers prefer
-
Coils may make some noise with movement
-
Foam layers have an initial chemical smell
-
Our Take
Nolah’s Evolution 15 is designed to maximize pressure relief without trapping too much heat. The hybrid is notable for its plush Euro-top that gently massages pressure points. Co-sleepers can choose from three firmness levels, which Nolah calls Plush, Luxury Firm, and Firm. Our testing team found that these options correspond to medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (8) on our 10-point firmness scale.
Why We Like It
We found that the Plush option performs especially well for side sleepers under 230 pounds, while heavier side sleepers preferred the Luxury Firm model. The thick comfort system delivers plenty of cushioning to the hips and shoulders, which are vulnerable pressure points for side sleepers.
Back sleepers on our testing team between 130 and 230 pounds were evenly split among proponents of the Luxury Firm and Firm options. But those over 230 pounds clearly preferred the greater support of the Firm mattress, while those under 130 pounds liked the added contouring of the Luxury Firm. Many stomach sleepers also said they could go either way, but those with bigger bodies mostly opted for the firmer of the two.
Thanks to a number of cooling features, we found that the mattress regulates temperature well. While the comfort system is fairly thick, the foam layers are more breathable than conventional foam. The pocketed coils promote airflow, and their added bounce keeps sleepers from sinking too far into the mattress.
The Nolah Evolution 15 comes in all the standard mattress sizes, as well as a split king option that lets co-sleepers choose between the three firmness levels for each side of the mattress.
We found that the Nolah Evolution 15 delivers notable pressure relief for most sleep styles and body types. The mattress also has above-average temperature control thanks to breathable foams and pocketed coils.
How Does It Feel?
Using proprietary ArcticTex fibers, the quilted cover is engineered to dispel heat. The Euro-top contains breathable polyfoam, which also helps the surface stay cooler. Two additional layers of polyfoam support spinal alignment by evenly distributing body weight, while graphite infusions are designed to minimize heat retention.
A pocketed coil system limits motion transfer while encouraging air circulation. The coils are zoned so that the torso area receives extra reinforcement. Sturdier coils along the perimeter boost edge support, which minimizes gapping in the center of a split king mattress. A base layer made from recycled plant fibers stabilizes the entire mattress.
The sides are encased in embroidered fabric and feature convenient carrying handles. The seven layers total 15 inches, so fitted sheets with extra deep pockets may be needed.
Sleeper Type Ratings
The ratings below indicate how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights, taking into account factors such as support and pressure relief.
Best Value Mattress
Nectar Mattress
Check Price at Nectar
Check Price at Nectar
A competitive price-point, year-long sleep trial, and lifetime warranty make the Nectar Mattress an appealing option for value seekers. The all-foam model also has a firmer-than-average feel that appealed to members of our team that typically don’t go for memory foam mattresses.
Ideal For
Side Sleepers
Firmness
Medium Firm (6)
Feel
Close-Conforming Foam
Value
Great Value
Pros & Cons
-
Pros
-
Foam construction provides excellent motion isolation
-
Budget-friendly price-point
-
Excels at relieving pressure
-
-
Cons
-
Foam restricts movement, which can hinder intimacy
-
Only available in one firmness level
-
Not supportive enough for stomach sleepers over 230 pounds
-
Our Take
The Nectar is an affordable all-foam model that cradles the body to alleviate tension. Its balanced medium firm feel registers as a 6 on our 10-point firmness scale and supports a range of sleep styles.
Why We Like It
The Nectar’s pliable all-foam design makes it well suited for couples with adjustable bases who like having the option of raising or lowering the head of the bed on each side independently. Along with split king, the Nectar is available in the six standard mattress sizes.
We found the Nectar to be a great budget-friendly option for side sleepers and people under 230 pounds. It also sleeps relatively cool for an all-foam mattress and features top-notch motion isolation and pressure relief.
How Does It Feel?
Made from a blend of polyester and nylon, the soft cover helps wick away heat and moisture. Plush memory foam cushions areas prone to pressure points on the hips, shoulders, and spine. Close contouring foams tend to trap heat, but the Nectar uses gel infusions designed to increase breathability.
A layer of adaptive polyfoam helps spread body weight evenly across the mattress. The support core uses 7 inches of high-density polyfoam to reinforce the upper layers. A slip-resistant base cover helps keep the mattress firmly rooted. The foam layers amount to 12 inches, which is an average mattress height.
Side sleepers often benefit from a foam mattress’ closer contouring. Unsurprisingly, we found that the Nectar delivers ample pressure relief to side sleepers in any weight group. The plush memory foam cradles the hips and shoulders while encouraging good sleep posture. Most stomach and back sleepers should feel supported by the dense polyfoam core, but sleepers over 230 pounds may experience some sinkage and find it more difficult to change positions.
Sleeper Type Ratings
The ratings below indicate how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights, taking into account factors such as support and pressure relief.
Best Luxury Mattress
Solaire
Buy more, save more. Up to $500 off.
Buy more, save more. Up to $500 off.
The Solaire by Saatva is a luxury airbed that is adjustable between soft and firm feels. This design allowed each of our testers to find a level that fit their support needs. You can also choose different firmnesses for each side of the bed, which should appeal to couples.
Ideal For
Couples
Firmness
50 Firmness Settings
Feel
Customizable
Value
Fair Value
Pros & Cons
-
Pros
-
Airbed with 50 firmness levels to choose from
-
Sleeps exceptionally cool
-
Latex and memory foam comfort system offers top-notch pressure relief
-
-
Cons
-
Limited edge support despite perimeter reinforcement
-
Has a high price-point, like other airbeds
-
Responsive surface allows motion transfer
-
Our Take
As an adjustable airbed, the Saatva Solaire gives couples maximum customization. The queen size and larger models have 50 firmness settings on each side of the bed so sleepers can experiment with various levels of support.
Why We Like It
With a range of nuanced settings, we found that the Solaire delivers balanced support and pressure relief for the full gamut of sleep positions and body types. Our tests also revealed excellent temperature control and above-average ease of movement and durability.
While the Solaire doesn’t come in twin size, it’s available in the other standard sizes as well as split king and split California king. Customers can test the bed for 365 nights, which is longer than the average sleep trial.
While the Solaire may be cost-prohibitive for some shoppers, a durable design, professional installation, and a lengthy sleep trial help justify its higher price-point for couples seeking a luxury airbed with a wide range of personal customization.
How Does It Feel?
A 3-inch quilted Euro-top boosts pressure relief without trapping too much heat. The layer is sturdier in the center so that the back and hips receive extra support. An organic cotton cover is designed to draw heat away from the mattress’ surface. The cover incorporates Guardin, Saatva’s exclusive antimicrobial treatment.
Zoned Talalay latex conforms to the body while still supporting the heavier torso area. A layer of gel-infused memory foam offers deeper contouring without generating too much heat. The comfort system is finished with a protective barrier that safeguards the mechanical core from moisture.
The support core features vulcanized rubber air chambers that inflate or deflate via remote control. Foam lining stabilizes the core and dampens any noise from the chambers. The 50 settings span from soft (3) to firm (8), so users can finely calibrate their comfort level.
Sleeper Type Ratings
The ratings below indicate how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights, taking into account factors such as support and pressure relief.
Best Mattress for Couples
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
30% off sitewide with code: BFRIDAY30
30% off sitewide with code: BFRIDAY30
Available in three firmness levels, the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid cushions the body with adaptive foam and reinforces with sturdy pocketed coils. Approachable pricing makes this mattress a good option for shoppers with limited budgets.
Ideal For
Couples
Firmness
Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Feel
Cushioned Surface, Sturdy Design
Value
Great Value
Pros & Cons
-
Pros
-
Multi-layer comfort system provides deep pressure relief
-
Couples have three firmness levels to choose from
-
More affordable than other comparable hybrids
-
-
Cons
-
Only the firm model provides strong edge support
-
Firm model doesn’t isolate motion well
-
Our Take
Brooklyn Bedding’s Signature Hybrid balances quality and affordability to provide comfort at a fraction of the average hybrid cost. The versatile design makes it well suited for co-sleepers with different sleep preferences.
Why We Like It
The Signature Hybrid comes in three firmnesses. Our side sleepers who weighed under 130 pounds preferred the medium soft (4) feel. The medium firm (6) option appealed to testers across all sleeping positions, and the firm (8) option was popular with testers who weighed over 130 pounds. Our combination sleepers in that same weight range found it particularly comfortable.
Our tests showed that the thicker polyfoam comfort layers in the medium soft and medium firm versions help isolate motion, making these options a good solution for partners trying to avoid disturbing each other when they toss and turn. However, the firm version’s sturdy build provides better edge support and allows for easier movement overall. If you move a lot in your sleep or have trouble getting into or out of bed, the firm option may be the best fit for you.
How Does It Feel?
A quilted polyfoam layer cradles the body to relieve pressure in the hips and shoulders, followed by another polyfoam layer that feels more responsive. Beneath, a transitional layer of responsive polyfoam acts as a cushion between the comfort system and the support core. A pocketed coil core limits motion transfer, adds bounce, and provides even support. Zoned coils around the perimeter reduce edge sinkage so you can use the full surface of the mattress. Good edge support also makes it easier to get into and out of bed.
Sleeper Type Ratings
The ratings below indicate how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights, taking into account factors such as support and pressure relief.
Best Mattress for Back Pain
Bear Elite Hybrid
35% off + free pillows with code: SF35
35% off + free pillows with code: SF35
The Bear Elite Hybrid’s balanced feel and variety of firmness options make it a great choice for couples with distinct firmness preferences. Other features couples will enjoy include the foam comfort system’s motion isolation properties, which should reduce nightly disturbances from your partner changing positions at night.
Ideal For
Restless Sleepers
Firmness
Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Feel
Close-Conforming Foam
Value
Good Value
Pros & Cons
-
Pros
-
Zoned support system designed to ease back pain
-
Celliant fiber and hybrid design keep the mattress cool
-
Three firmness options with distinct feels and support levels
-
-
Cons
-
Couples who like a responsive surface during sex may find this model too compressive
-
Coils make some noise
-
Both sides of split king must be purchased in same firmness level
-
Our Take
Bear designs mattresses with athletes in mind, but a variety of sleepers can benefit from solid pressure relief and support. The Elite Hybrid features thick comfort layers and a sturdy coiled core to ease pressure points and align the spine. With more firmness options than other Bear models, the mattress accommodates couples with distinct preferences.
Why We Like It
Given the different firmness options, we found that the Elite Hybrid can comfortably sleep all positions. The coiled core allows sleepers to change positions with greater ease, but we didn’t notice significant motion transfer. We also found that the mattress regulates temperature well, despite its close-conforming memory foam.
While Bear doesn’t let shoppers select two different firmness options on a single split king purchase, co-sleepers with differing firmness preferences can order two twin XL mattresses since the combined dimensions are identical to the split king size.
With three firmness options to choose from, people of most body types and preferred sleep positions should enjoy considerable pressure relief and support on the Elite Hybrid. Hot sleepers can also benefit from the mattress’ various cooling features.
How Does It Feel?
A plush, hand-quilted cover blends phase change material with cooling Celliant fibers. Cushy memory foam contours the body, while copper infusions are engineered to reduce heat buildup. A layer of zoned polyfoam delivers proportional support so heavier areas like the torso and hips receive more pushback. Cutouts in the foam are designed to promote air circulation.
The pocketed coil core boosts lumbar support and stabilizes the comfort system. Sturdier coils are used along the perimeter to enhance edge support, and a base of high-density polyfoam adds further stability.
All sizes are available in three firmness levels: medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (8). At 14 inches thick, the mattress is considered high-profile.
Sleeper Type Ratings
The ratings below indicate how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights, taking into account factors such as support and pressure relief.
Best Cooling Mattress
PlushBeds Botanical Bliss
$1,250 off + free pillows, sheets, and mattress protector
$1,250 off + free pillows, sheets, and mattress protector
Latex mattresses are often great choices for back pain, offering cradling for the spine while supporting the body. Our testers with persistent back pain enjoyed the PlushBeds Botanical Bliss’ supportive contouring, as well as the two firmness and three profile options.
Ideal For
Back Pain
Firmness
Medium Firm (6), Firm (7)
Feel
Responsive Latex
Value
Good Value
Pros & Cons
-
Pros
-
Cooling features and temperature-neutral materials keep hot sleepers happy
-
Responsive surface is excellent for sex
-
Available in three height profiles and two firmness levels
-
-
Cons
-
Neither option is ideal for stomach sleepers under 130 pounds
-
Doesn’t provide highly conforming feel some sleepers prefer
-
Our Take
If you live with frequent or chronic back pain, you should use a mattress that promotes even alignment and provides adequate support for your body. Each layer of the PlushBeds Botanical Bliss is composed of organic latex, a naturally durable and responsive material that gently cushions the body. Latex is ideal for people who dislike the “hug” of memory foam, or find that they sink too much on all-foam mattresses.
Why We Like It
During our tests, we found the Botanical Bliss sleeps quite cool. The latex is ventilated to promote airflow throughout the interior and the cotton is exceptionally breathable. We also awarded positive ratings for ease of movement. The natural, gentle bounce of latex allowed us to move across the Botanical Bliss’ surface without sinking or feeling restricted.
The PlushBeds Botanical Bliss is a long-lasting, eco-friendly latex mattress that offers decent cushioning without the body-hug or sink of foam. Excellent cooling also makes the Botanical Bliss a good pick for hot sleepers.
How Does It Feel?
You can choose between two firmness levels for your Botanical Bliss, medium firm (6) and firm (7). The latter feels slightly more supportive and the former provides closer contouring, but both feel fairly balanced. If you and your partner have different preferences, you can opt for a split king with medium firm on one side and firm on the other.
The Botanical Bliss is also available in three profiles. The 9-inch model consists of bouncy Talalay latex over two base layers of dense Dunlop latex. This profile is best suited to people who weigh up to 230 pounds. If you weigh more, then the 10-inch or 12-inch model should provide sufficient support. The 12-inch design includes a third Dunlop latex layer for maximum reinforcement.
All Botanical Bliss models are encased in organic cotton covers. This fabric has earned certification from the Global Organic Textile Standard, ensuring sustainable cultivation and processing. Likewise, the latex holds certification with the Global Organic Latex Standard for eco-friendly sourcing of rubber tree plants used to produce the material. These credentials should appeal to anyone who prefers to buy and use products with minimal environmental impact.
Sleeper Type Ratings
The ratings below indicate how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights, taking into account factors such as support and pressure relief.
Many of our top picks for the best mattresses of 2024 are also available in split king size. And, we recommend looking at our choices for the best split king adjustable bed to find the ideal split king mattress platform.
Best Overall Mattress
Nolah Evolution 15
Black Friday early access: 35% off mattresses + 2 free pillows
SHOP NOWThe Nolah Evolution 15 is packed with features to help you stay cool and comfortable, and available in multiple firmness options to meet the needs of most sleepers.
SEE MORE DETAILS
Best Value Mattress
Nectar Mattress
Check Price at Nectar
SHOP NOWThe Nectar provides the deep hug of memory foam at an accessible price-point.
SEE MORE DETAILS
Best Luxury Mattress
Solaire
Buy more, save more. Up to $500 off.
SHOP NOWThe Solaire uses advanced airbed technology to adjust its firmness with the press of a button.
SEE MORE DETAILS
Best Mattress for Couples
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
30% off sitewide with code: BFRIDAY30
SHOP NOWThe Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid uses sturdy coils and cushy foams to provide a balanced feel that can meet the needs of sleepers with different needs.
SEE MORE DETAILS
Best Mattress for Back Pain
Bear Elite Hybrid
35% off + free pillows with code: SF35
SHOP NOWThe Bear Elite Hybrid provides strong support through its coil core, while taking pressure off the body with its memory foam surface.
SEE MORE DETAILS
Best Cooling Mattress
PlushBeds Botanical Bliss
$1,250 off + free pillows, sheets, and mattress protector
SHOP NOWThe PlushBeds Botanical Bliss uses bouncy, eco-friendly latex to provide pressure relief while staying cool through the night.
SEE MORE DETAILS
What Is a Split King Mattress?
A split king is a king size mattress that’s divided down the middle, so that it has two distinct sides. However, instead of literally cutting the bed, manufacturers use two twin XL mattresses next to each other because together, they have the same dimensions as a king. Each side measures 38 inches by 80 inches, which combined are 76 inches by 80 inches, the same size as a king.
Couples often choose split king mattresses when they have different preferences from one another. Not only can you choose separate firmness levels with most brands, but you can also opt for beds with different levels of cushioning, motion isolation, and pressure relief. If you have an adjustable bed base, you can sleep at a different angle than your partner.
Benefits of a Split King Mattress
If you share a bed, a split king mattress has several advantages over a standard king.
- Each partner can choose a distinct firmness level for their side of the bed
- With an adjustable base, each partner can sleep at a different angle
- You may feel less of your partner’s movement
- You can opt for a more or less conforming feel than your partner does
- Partners can use sheets and bedding in different weaves or fabrics
It’s important to remember that a split king is essentially two twin XL mattresses next to each other. For that reason, a split king may feel and perform differently than a standard king, even if it’s the same mattress model with the same firmness level.
What’s Important to Consider in a Split King Mattress?
Purchasing any mattress takes research and consideration, but there are additional factors to consider if you’re looking for a split king.
Adjustability
Many people enjoy using split king mattresses on adjustable bed frames. These frames allow each bed partner to adjust their side of the bed independently from the other side. For example, they may be able to raise or lower the head or foot of the bed to varying degrees. Adjustable bed frames require mattresses that will remain durable in the face of such adjustments.
Bed frames aside, some mattress models allow sleepers to adjust their firmness levels. Airbeds and other adjustable mattresses are often available in a split king size and are a worthy choice for anyone who wants a highly versatile bed with custom firmness options on each side. An airbed has an air-filled rubber support core that inflates and deflates to change a bed’s firmness level.
Edge Support
When a mattress has strong edge support, you can sit or sleep right at its edge without causing the materials to compress significantly. Edge support is especially important for split king mattresses, because weak edges can cause your bed to sink in the middle where the two mattresses meet. A strong perimeter also allows you to sleep near your partner without losing support.
Price
While mattress type, materials, extra features, and brand reputation can all affect price, split kings are typically more expensive than standard kings by at least a few hundred dollars. The average split king costs between $1,200 and $3,000, though split king airbeds and other luxury models can cost more.
Sleep Trial and Warranty
One of the advantages of online mattress shopping is getting a sleep trial with your purchase. Most companies offer a trial window to let you test out the mattress and send it back for a full or partial refund if it’s not right for you. This is especially helpful for people trying out a split king or adjustable bed base for the first time.
Most quality mattresses carry a warranty that safeguards against manufacturing errors and material defects. The term lengths vary widely, be sure to check what a warranty covers and for how long before buying a mattress.
Assembly
Many split king beds and frames require at least a bit of assembly. How to assemble a split king mattress can differ among brands, so reading instructions is important. To keep the mattresses from spreading apart, ensure that the connector between the two sides is secure. If you still have trouble keeping them together, use support braces that are designed for the task. You can also put a standard king size topper over the two mattresses to bridge any gap.
Sheets and Accessories
Since split kings are two twin XL mattresses next to each other, you can use twin XL bedding too. However, some couples prefer to use twin XL fitted sheets and share a standard king top sheet and bedding, so they are sharing bedding. Keep in mind that buying split king sheets in packs or a la carte can cost more than standard king sheets.
Video: What to Look For in a Mattress
Watch our video to learn more about choosing the perfect mattress for your needs and budget.
Should You Buy a Split King Mattress?
If you share a bed and have different preferences than your partner, you may want to consider buying a split king mattress. Since split kings are two twin XL mattresses next to each other, you can choose a mattress that’s firmer or softer than your partner’s. A split king mattress for couples is useful when partners have different builds or have different preferred sleeping positions or unique needs.
Using a split king along with an adjustable bed frame also allows you to sleep at a different angle than your partner or stay up and read while they sleep. However, it’s important to consider the pros and cons of a split king mattress. They take up considerable floor space and are more expensive than standard king mattresses.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
|
|
Discover More Mattress Solutions
If you’re not sure where to start when it comes to mattress shopping, take a look at our buying guides to learn how to pick a bed that suits your needs.
How We Test
Our expert team has tested out more than 1,000 mattresses over nearly a decade. We’ve created a methodology that evaluates not only how well a mattress supports sleepers, but also how it ranks across many performance factors. To pick the best split king mattress, we relied on intel from our expert testing team.
Members of our team tried each mattress personally to determine how well it worked with their unique sleeper type and weight group. We also looked at scores from edge support and heat retention tests, since these two factors are often important for couples who share a split king.
Frequently Asked Questions
Split king mattresses are more expensive than other mattress sizes and can be tricky to assemble, which can be a disadvantage for some sleepers. It may also take some trial and error to prevent a gap from forming between the two sides of the bed. When comparing a split king vs. king mattress, keep these factors in mind.
A split king is essentially two twin XL beds sold together and placed next to each other, often in a shared bed frame. Individually, twin XLs measure 38 inches by 80 inches. Together, two of them are 76 inches by 80 inches, which are the same dimensions as a standard king. Split king bed frames often have connecting pieces to support the two mattresses both individually and collectively.
Split king mattresses are worth it for couples with different body weights and sleep position preferences from one another, though they can be expensive and require a large bedroom. If you and your partner can’t agree on whether to get a firm or soft mattress, a split king mattress may be a solution worth considering.
You can use a regular king top sheet on a split king bed, but you’ll need to use twin XL fitted sheets instead of a standard king fitted sheet. If you use a regular king fitted sheet, the inside edges of the two twin XL mattresses won’t be covered or protected.
Preventing a split king bed from separating can be a bit tricky, but the best methods include using a bed frame with a strong connector or purchasing support braces that keep the mattresses secure. You can also place a king size mattress topper on the bed to cover the crack between the mattresses.
Ask the Sleep Doctor
Have questions about sleep? Submit them here! We use your questions to help us decide topics for articles, videos, and newsletters. We try to answer as many questions as possible. You can also send us an email. Please note, we cannot provide specific medical advice, and always recommend you contact your doctor for any medical matters.