Choosing between a double bed and a king size bed is a common decision for UK shoppers. Both are suitable for couples, but they differ in size, comfort, bedroom space and price.
A standard UK double bed measures 135 × 190 cm (4ft 6in × 6ft 3in), while a UK king size bed measures 150 × 200 cm (5ft × 6ft 6in).
That means a king size bed gives you 15 cm more width and 10 cm more length.
So, when comparing a double bed vs king size bed, which is right for you? This guide explains the key differences to help you choose the best bed size for your bedroom.
Double Bed vs King Size Bed: Quick Comparison
FeatureDouble BedKing Size BedMattress width135 cm150 cmMattress length190 cm200 cmSize in feet4ft 6in × 6ft 3in5ft × 6ft 6inBest forCouples, smaller bedroomsCouples, taller sleepersSleeping spaceComfortableMore spaciousBedroom space neededLessMore
A king size bed is 15 cm wider and 10 cm longer than a double bed, giving couples more personal sleeping space.
What Size Is a Double Bed in the UK?
A standard UK double bed mattress measures 135 cm wide by 190 cm long, or approximately 4ft 6in × 6ft 3in.
A double bed is also commonly called a:
4ft 6 bed
4 foot 6 bed
Standard double bed
Double bed frame
A double bed is a popular choice for couples because it provides comfortable sleeping space while fitting into most standard UK bedrooms.
It can also work well for:
Solo sleepers who want extra space
Guest bedrooms
Smaller master bedrooms
Bedrooms with wardrobes and other furniture
Remember that the overall double bed frame dimensions will usually be slightly larger than the mattress itself, especially with upholstered beds, winged headboards or large footboards.
What Size Is a King Size Bed in the UK?
A standard UK king size mattress measures 150 cm wide by 200 cm long, or approximately 5ft × 6ft 6in.
A king size bed may also be described as a:
5ft bed
5 foot bed
King bed
King size bed frame
Compared with a double bed, a king offers an extra 15 cm of width and 10 cm of length.
The extra space makes a king size bed ideal for couples, taller sleepers and larger bedrooms.
How Much Bigger Is a King Bed Than a Double?
The size difference is:
Double bed: 135 × 190 cm
King size bed: 150 × 200 cm
A king therefore provides:
15 cm extra width
10 cm extra length
For two people sharing the bed, a double provides around 67.5 cm of width per person, while a king provides around 75 cm per person.
Those extra centimetres can make a noticeable difference if you or your partner move around during the night.
Is a Double Bed Big Enough for Two People?
Yes. A double bed is designed for two adults and remains one of the most popular bed sizes for couples in the UK.
A double bed may be the better choice if:
Your bedroom is relatively small
You want more walking space
You have wardrobes or drawers nearby
You already sleep comfortably in a double
You want a more affordable bed size
The largest bed that fits into a bedroom is not always the best choice. You should still have enough room to move around the bed and use your furniture comfortably.
Is a King Size Bed Better for Couples?
For many couples, a king size bed is more comfortable than a double bed because it provides more personal sleeping space.
A king size bed can be particularly useful if:
You move around during sleep
Your partner is a light sleeper
One or both sleepers are tall
You currently feel cramped in a double
You prefer more sleeping space
If your bedroom comfortably fits a king, the additional width and length can make it a worthwhile upgrade.
Double Bed or King Size Bed for a Small Bedroom?
For a small bedroom, a double bed will usually be the more practical option.
A king bed takes up additional floor space, and the full bed frame will be larger than the mattress measurements.
Before buying a double or king bed, measure:
Bedroom width and length
Space beside the bed
Space at the foot of the bed
Wardrobe doors
Bedroom doors
Drawers
Bedside tables
Radiators
If the king makes the bedroom difficult to move around, a double will usually give you a better overall layout.
Which Bed Is Better for Tall People?
A king size bed is generally better for taller sleepers because it is 200 cm long compared with 190 cm for a double.
That extra 10 cm of mattress length can make a noticeable difference if your feet regularly reach the bottom of a standard double bed.
So if height is an important factor, a king size mattress is usually the better choice.
Double Mattress vs King Mattress
Your mattress must match your bed frame.
A standard double mattress is 135 × 190 cm.
A standard king size mattress is 150 × 200 cm.
You should use:
Double mattress → Double bed frame
King mattress → King size bed frame
A king mattress will not correctly fit a standard double frame, and a double mattress should not be used on a king bed frame.
Double or King Storage Bed?
Both sizes are available as ottoman beds, divan beds and storage beds.
An ottoman storage bed lifts the mattress platform to reveal storage underneath, making it useful for:
Bedding
Duvets
Pillows
Clothes
Suitcases
Bedroom accessories
A king ottoman bed may offer more storage because of its larger base, but it will also require more bedroom space.
If you prefer drawers, make sure there is enough clearance beside the bed for them to open fully.
Double Bed vs King Size Bed: Comfort
When comparing double vs king size bed comfort, the king normally provides more sleeping space.
A king can feel less restrictive for couples because each person has more room to move.
However, mattress quality is just as important as bed size.
A supportive double mattress with the right firmness can be more comfortable than a king mattress that does not suit your sleeping position.
When choosing a new bed, consider both the bed frame and mattress together.
Double Bed vs King Size Bed: Price
A double bed will usually cost less than a king size bed.
A king may also mean buying larger:
Mattress
Fitted sheets
Mattress protector
Duvet
Duvet covers
If you already own double bedding, upgrading to a king may therefore cost more than just the price difference between the bed frames.
For couples who have enough bedroom space, however, the extra sleeping room can make the king worth the additional cost.
Double Bed vs King Size Bed: Pros and Cons
Double bed advantages
Fits more UK bedrooms
Suitable for couples
Takes up less floor space
Usually costs less
Leaves more room for furniture
Good for guest bedrooms
Double bed disadvantages
Less sleeping space for couples
Shorter than a king
Can feel cramped for some sleepers
King size bed advantages
15 cm wider than a double
10 cm longer than a double
More sleeping space for couples
Better for taller sleepers
Ideal for larger bedrooms
King size bed disadvantages
Requires more floor space
Usually costs more
Requires larger bedding
Can overwhelm a small bedroom
Double or King: Which Size Should You Choose?
Choose a double bed if:
Your bedroom is smaller
You want more floor space
You need room for other furniture
You already sleep comfortably in a double
You want to keep costs lower
Choose a king size bed if:
Your bedroom has enough space
You want more sleeping room
You share your bed every night
You are tall
You find a double too cramped
You want a more spacious master bedroom
The simplest way to decide is:
Choose a double when bedroom space matters most. Choose a king when sleeping space matters most.
Double Bed vs King Size Bed FAQs
What size is a UK double bed?
A standard UK double mattress measures 135 × 190 cm, or approximately 4ft 6in × 6ft 3in.
What size is a UK king size bed?
A standard UK king size mattress measures 150 × 200 cm, or approximately 5ft × 6ft 6in.
How much bigger is a king than a double?
A king size bed is approximately 15 cm wider and 10 cm longer than a standard UK double bed.
Is a double bed suitable for two adults?
Yes. A double bed is designed for two adults and is one of the most common bed sizes for couples in the UK.
Is a king bed better for couples?
A king size bed provides more personal sleeping space, so many couples find it more comfortable than a double.
Which is better for a small bedroom?
A double bed is usually better for a small bedroom because it takes up less floor space.
Which bed is better for tall people?
A king size bed is usually better because it is 200 cm long, compared with 190 cm for a double.
What is a 4ft 6 bed?
A 4ft 6 bed is another name for a standard UK double bed.
What is a 5ft bed?
A 5ft bed is another name for a standard UK king size bed.
Find Your Perfect Double or King Size Bed
Whether you choose a double bed or king size bed, the right option depends on your bedroom size, sleeping habits and how much space you want.
A double bed is ideal for standard UK bedrooms and couples who want to save floor space.
A king size bed gives you extra width and length, making it an excellent choice for couples, taller sleepers and larger bedrooms.
Before ordering, measure your room carefully and check the full dimensions of the bed frame.
Explore double beds, king size beds, luxury beds, ottoman beds, divan beds and upholstered beds at MNM Beds.
Shop Beds → https://mnmbeds.co.uk/categories/beds
For more help, visit the MNM Beds UK Bed Size Guide to compare all popular UK bed dimensions.