Should you buy a super king or two single beds?

Your choice of bed size can significantly impact your sleep quality, comfort, and the overall aesthetics of your bedroom. A common dilemma for some couples is whether to invest in two single beds or a luxurious super king size bed.

Whether upgrading your main bedroom or preparing your spare room for overnight guests, here’s how to choose between a super king size bed or two single beds.

Pros and cons of two single beds

A single bed measures 3 feet by 6 feet 3 inches (3’0” x 6’3”) and is suitable for a single person.

Pros

• Easy to manoeuvre.
• Ideal for smaller bedrooms.
• Suitable for properties with access restrictions.
• Reduced sleep disturbances as each partner sleeps in separate beds.
• Perfect for individuals valuing personal space and independence.
• Ideal for couples with different sleep schedules.
• Single beds are typically more affordable than other beds.
• Greater flexibility for changing room layout or relocating beds into different rooms.

Cons

• Limited sleeping space.
• Single beds are not ideal for couples sharing a bed.
• Extra cost for separate bedding, headboards, and accessories.
• Single beds may look lost in larger bedrooms.

Pros and cons of super king size beds

A super king size bed measures 6 feet by 6 feet 6 inches (180 cm x 200 cm), making it the largest among the UK’s standard bed sizes, ideal for couples who prefer their sleeping space.

Pros

• Spacious for couples.
• Great for families co-sleeping with children or pets.
• Promotes better sleep by minimising disturbances between partners.
• Ideal for taller individuals.
• Super king size beds work well in larger bedrooms.
• Offers a luxurious hotel-style appearance.
• Creates an impressive focal point in the bedroom.
• Offers additional storage space.

Cons

• Heavy and difficult to move.
• May not fit into the bedroom due to property restrictions.
• Could overpower smaller bedrooms.
• Limited flexibility for different sleeping arrangements.
• Typically pricier than other beds.
• Requires larger bedding and headboard.

Are two single beds the same size as a super king?

A single bed measures 3 feet by 6 feet 3 inches (90 cm x 190 cm), while a super king size bed measures 6 feet by 6 feet 6 inches (180 cm x 200 cm). When two single beds are pushed together, they match the width of a super king bed. However, super king size beds are 3 inches longer, making them more suitable for taller individuals.

It is possible to order extra-long single beds for tall people, which are the same length as a super king bed. However, since this is a non-standard size, fewer manufacturers offer this option, and it would be more expensive than buying standard single beds.

Can you join two single beds together?

A zip and link set allows two single beds to be zipped together to create a super king size bed. It is a versatile option, allowing couples to sleep together or apart, depending on their preferences.

A zip and link bed consists of two single beds, each measuring 3 feet by 6 feet 6 inches (90 x 200 cm). They are longer than standard single beds, making them an appealing option to taller individuals. However, they are typically more expensive than standard beds.

What factors should you consider when choosing between a super king size bed and two single beds?

There are several factors to consider when choosing between a super king size bed and two single beds.

Bedroom size

Measuring your bedroom’s dimensions will help determine whether a super king size bed or two single beds work best. Ensure there’s sufficient space for the bed(s) and bedroom furniture, such as bedside cabinets, and you can easily move around the room once the bed(s) are in place.

Although the combined width of two single beds is the same as a super king, they typically occupy more bedroom space because there is usually a gap between them. You will also need to allow extra room if you have drawers in the bed.

In contrast, super king beds are 3 inches longer than single beds, so you need to ensure there is sufficient room at the bottom of the bed.

Consider how the bed(s) size will affect the bedroom’s aesthetics. While a super king bed can provide a luxurious feel, it may overwhelm a smaller space, making it feel cramped.

Check the property access to ensure the bed(s) will fit into the intended bedroom. A one-piece mattress can be heavy and difficult to manoeuvre. It may not fit through doorways, up the stairs or around corners. In such cases, opting for two single beds may be a more practical solution as they are easier to manoeuvre into the bedroom.

Also, consider how you will use the bedroom in the future. A super king bed may suit couples, but it may be impractical for friends or overnight guests. Two single beds offer more flexibility, allowing you to easily push the beds together for couples or separate them where necessary.

Who will be using the bed

Consider who will use the bed, as this can influence whether you choose a super king or two single beds.

Sleeping partners may prefer a super king size bed because there is extra space to stretch out and get more intimate and cosy when desired. On the other hand, in a guest room, the choice between a super king or two singles depends on the guests and whether its primary use is for couples, single adults, or children.

A super king size bed can comfortably accommodate two adults or a single person who values their sleeping space. In contrast, two single beds offer greater versatility as they can be kept separate for single adults or children, pushed together to accommodate couples or moved into a different room.

Sleeping habits

Consider your sleeping habits or preferences. While many couples enjoy sleeping together in one bed, some may prefer sleeping apart. A larger bed, like a super king can help reduce partner disturbance and promote better sleep.

Sleeping apart can be beneficial for several reasons. If you toss and turn throughout the night or share a bed with a restless sleeper, having separate beds can minimise disturbances, reduce stress, and result in a better night’s sleep. Additionally, if one partner frequently visits the bathroom or gets up in the middle of the night, sleeping in separate beds can prevent disruptions to the other’s sleep.

Couples with different work schedules or lifestyles may prefer sleeping in separate beds. For instance, if one partner works late nights or you have different bedtime routines, separate beds enable you to maintain your preferred sleep schedule without disturbing each other.

Snoring is another reason couples may prefer to sleep in separate beds. Snoring can prevent a partner from sleeping, potentially affecting the relationship.

Some people value their personal space, and sleeping in separate beds gives them a sense of independence and privacy.

Comfort preferences

Couples often have different comfort preferences and support needs, which can influence their choice between a super king or two single beds. For instance, a soft mattress may be perfect for one partner but uncomfortable for the other, especially if there’s a significant difference in body weight. Generally, the heavier you are, the firmer the mattress you need.

Your preferred sleeping position can also influence your choice between a super king or single beds. For instance, side sleepers typically prefer a mattress that cushions the shoulders and hips. In contrast, back and stomach sleepers usually require a firmer mattress.

While dual tension mattresses offer a compromise by allowing each partner to have their side of the mattress in their preferred firmness, two single beds may be preferable for couples with vast differences in comfort preferences or body weight.

When buying two single beds, ensure they are similar heights. Otherwise, you may be unable to push them together if one bed is taller. Some models are available in different firmness levels, allowing you to choose your preferred firmness whilst eliminating any height concerns.

Couples might also sleep apart for medical reasons. For example, if one partner requires a specific type of mattress or bed to alleviate pain, improve circulation, prevent and relieve arthritis or make getting in and out of bed easier.

Furthermore, medical conditions such as sleep disorders or allergies may require sleeping in separate beds.

Bedroom aesthetics

Consider how a super king or two single beds will affect the overall look and feel of the bedroom. A larger bed, like a super king might overpower a smaller bedroom, while single beds may look lost in a larger space. 

Budget

Purchasing two single beds is usually more cost-effective than a super king size bed. However, you should factor in additional costs, such as headboards and bedding for each bed.

Occasionally, manufacturers may offer promotions on super king beds, such as upgrades from king to super king at no extra cost. Keeping an eye out for these offers can help you determine the most cost-effective option for your budget.

Future requirements

Consider how you might use the bedroom in the future. A super king size bed might be beneficial for couples, but if you convert the space into a study area or guest room, having two single beds offers more flexibility. Single beds are ideal for individual guests, but you can also push the beds together to accommodate couples when necessary.

Furthermore, if couples plan to sleep in separate rooms in the future, having two single beds allows each person to have their own sleeping space without making significant changes to the bedroom setup.

Care and maintenance

Most mattresses require turning to even out the wear, which can be physically demanding. Single mattresses are much easier to flip and rotate than super king mattresses. Single beds are also easier to move for cleaning.

Final thoughts

Choosing between a super king size bed or two single beds depends on various factors, including bedroom space, who will be using the bed, sleeping habits and budget. By carefully considering these factors, you can choose a bed that promotes better sleep, improves comfort, and complements your bedroom and lifestyle.