No, a queen size bed is not bigger than a king. A king is always the larger bed. In the UK there is no official queen size: the closest match is a UK king (150 x 200cm), which is almost exactly the same as a US queen (152 x 203cm). So if you are in the UK and want a "queen", a king size bed is the one to buy.

The confusion comes from the US, Europe and the UK all using different names for different sizes. This guide shows how queen and king compare in each country, how long a standard single bed is, and how to choose the right size for your bedroom.

Queen vs king: the quick answer

• In the UK: the standard sizes are single, small double, double, king and super king. "Queen" is not an official UK size.
• In the US: a queen is 152 x 203cm (60 x 80 inches) and a king is 193 x 203cm (76 x 80 inches), so the king is about 41cm wider.
• Between countries: a UK king and a US queen are almost the same size. A US king is wider than a UK super king.

UK bed sizes

These are the standard UK mattress sizes. Bed frames are a little larger than the mattress, so always check the full frame size on the product page before you buy.

UK size	Width x length (cm)	Width x length (feet)	Best for
Small single	75 x 190cm	2ft6 x 6ft3	Children and small rooms
Single	90 x 190cm	3ft x 6ft3	One adult or a child
Small double	120 x 190cm	4ft x 6ft3	One adult who wants more space
Double	135 x 190cm	4ft6 x 6ft3	Couples in smaller rooms
King size	150 x 200cm	5ft x 6ft6	Most couples
Super king	180 x 200cm	6ft x 6ft6	Couples who want lots of room

For a deeper look at each size, see our full UK bed size guide.

Queen vs king around the world

Size	Dimensions	Nearest UK size
US queen	152 x 203cm (60 x 80in)	UK king (150 x 200cm)
US king	193 x 203cm (76 x 80in)	Wider than a UK super king
US California king	183 x 213cm (72 x 84in)	Similar width to a UK super king, but longer
European "queen"	Often 160 x 200cm	Between a UK king and super king
UK king	150 x 200cm	—
UK super king	180 x 200cm	—

The key point: a UK king is about the same as a US queen. That is why many people searching for a "queen bed" in the UK end up buying a king size.

Why is a UK king the same as a US queen?

The UK and US developed their bed sizes separately. In the UK, the double became the standard bed for couples, and the king and super king were added later as homes and bedrooms got bigger. In the US, the queen became the most popular size for couples, with the king as the larger option. The names sound similar, but they describe different widths.

This matters when you buy bedding or a mattress. A US queen sheet will usually fit a UK king mattress, but a US king duvet will be too wide for a UK king bed. Always buy mattresses, sheets and bed frames using UK sizes, and check the measurements in centimetres.

How long is a standard single bed?

A standard UK single bed is 190cm long (6ft3) and 90cm wide (3ft). Single, small double and double beds are all 190cm long. King and super king beds are longer at 200cm (6ft6), which gives taller sleepers more legroom.

If you are over about 6ft tall, a king or super king is usually more comfortable, because the extra 10cm of length means your feet are less likely to hang over the end.

King or super king: which should you choose?

• Choose a king size if you share the bed and your room is a typical UK main bedroom. It gives each person about 75cm of width, compared with about 67cm on a double.
• Choose a super king if you have a larger room, sleep with children or pets, or simply like lots of space. Each person gets about 90cm, the same as having your own single bed.
• Choose a double if your room is small. It is the most common UK size and still comfortable for most couples.

Not sure between the two biggest sizes? Read our king size vs super king guide.

How much room do you need for a king size bed?

A king size bed frame is wider and longer than the mattress, especially with an upholstered headboard. For example, an upholstered king size frame can measure around 160cm wide and 220cm long. As a rule, leave at least 60cm of space on each side and at the foot of the bed so you can walk around it and make the bed easily.

Planning storage too? A divan bed with storage keeps everything under the mattress, so it suits rooms where there is no space for extra furniture.

Find your king or super king bed

All our beds are handmade to order in the UK in standard UK sizes, including king and super king. Browse our luxury beds with tall statement headboards, our TV beds, or add a mattress in the matching size.

Frequently asked questions

Is a queen size bed bigger than a king?

No. A king is always bigger than a queen. In the US, a king is 193cm wide and a queen is 152cm wide.

Is there a queen size bed in the UK?

Not officially. UK standard sizes are single, small double, double, king and super king. The closest match to a queen is a UK king at 150 x 200cm.

Is a UK king the same as a US queen?

Almost. A UK king is 150 x 200cm and a US queen is 152 x 203cm, so they are within a few centimetres of each other.

Is a US king bigger than a UK super king?

Yes. A US king is 193cm wide, while a UK super king is 180cm wide.

How long is a standard single bed in the UK?

A standard UK single bed is 190cm long and 90cm wide (3ft x 6ft3).

What is bigger than a super king?

Some retailers sell an emperor bed, usually around 200 x 200cm, but it is not a standard UK size. For most homes, a super king is the largest practical size.