King vs. Super King Size: What’s the Difference?

Quick answer: The difference between king and super king bed size is width. A super king bed is 20cm wider than a standard king bed.

At Beds n Dreams, we have decades of experience helping people sleep better. We know that with bed size decisions, there's a lot more to it than just measurements. So, we put together this guide to help you choose confidently.

Super king vs. king bed size comparison

In Australia, these are the standard dimensions:

What is a king-size bed?

A standard king size bed is one of the most popular upgrades in Australian adult bedrooms. With a big jump up from a queen bed’s 153 cm in width, it delivers a significant comfort boost while still leaving space for bedside tables and other bedroom bits and pieces.

It feels like a large bed, but without occupying the entire room. This is why a king-size bed works so well in many Australian homes.

What is a super king-size bed?

A super king-size bed is the biggest standard bed size you can get in Australia. It takes the luxuriousness of a king bed and builds on it by adding even more width across the super king mattress.

The added width can make quite a noticeable difference to your everyday sleep. The extra 20cm gives you adequate space to stretch out and a less chance of disrupting your partner if you move around during the night. In an appropriately-sized bedroom, a super king bed exudes expansiveness and relaxation.

How much bigger is a super king than a king?

Both beds have the same length, but a super king bed is 20cm wider. Essentially, this means that each person gets an extra 10cm of sleeping space. It might not sound like much. But it's the difference between brushing shoulders when you roll over and having enough room to move without touching at all.

Most people value extra width over extra length. This is because it's the space from one side of the bed to the other that affects how freely you can move, and whether it feels comfortable or cramped once two people are in it.

Should you choose a king bed or super king bed?

There’s no black and white answer here. It really depends on how big your bedroom is and how you like to sleep. Both a king and a super king bed can be very comfortable.

Choose a king bed if:

• Your bedroom is approximately 3.6m × 3.6m

• You want space for standard bedside tables without it being too tight a squeeze or restricting drawer movement

• You’re stepping up from a queen bed and want an obvious improvement in comfort

• You want the freedom to rearrange furniture later on without the bed dictating the whole layout

Choose a super king bed if:

• Your bedroom is 4m × 4m or bigger

• You or your partner moves around a lot throughout the night

• You like having clear personal space rather than having no option but to sleep close

• You want the feeling of openness and expansiveness as you drift off to sleep

Bedroom size considerations

In Australia, a standard main bedroom measures somewhere between 3m × 3m and 3.6m × 3.6m. If you're shopping for a bedroom in this range, a king bed is typically the biggest you can go without making things awkwardly squished.

A super king bed can make sense when you're working with a larger (4m x 4m +) master bedroom, like those you see in newer builds, custom homes, or renovated houses.

The extra width of a super king comes with room to breathe. Without it, bedroom furniture often ends up pushed hard against the walls; it becomes hard to walk around both sides of the bed, and your wardrobe doors might not open properly.

Before you buy, measure the room. Think about any bedside tables and any furniture you already have that needs to stay. Generally, you want to aim for roughly 75 to 90cm of open space on each side of the bed. That’s just enough room to walk around easily and access your bedside tables.

King and super king beds near me

At Beds n Dreams, we have an amazing range of both king and super king bed frames and mattresses. Shop online from the comfort of your home or visit one of our stores across the country to find the perfect fit for your bedroom!

FAQs

Does Australia have unique dimensions for super king and king-sized beds?

Yes. Australian king and super king beds are typically wider than UK sizes and a bit smaller than some US sizes.

Do king and super king mattresses use different bedding?

Yes. As a super king mattress is wider, it needs super king–specific sheets and mattress protectors.

Is a super king better than a king for tall people?

Not necessarily. A super king bed and a king bed are the same length as each other. However, both these beds are longer than a double or single bed.

Is a super king the biggest bed you can get?

Yes. Unless you order a custom-made bed or one from overseas, a super king is the largest standard residential bed size in Australia.