When it comes to shopping for a mattress, size does indeed matter. And, if you want the biggest mattress possible, a California king will have you sleeping like royalty.
To help you find the most regal of beds, we put together a list of the best California king mattresses. Read on to see which will have you saying, “Hail to the king.”
Our Verdict: What’s the Best California King Mattress?
Our expert reviewers chose the Helix Midnight Luxe as the best California king mattress for its plush pillow top, comfort layer of foam, and extra-supportive coils. A royal experience indeed.
Best California King Mattresses: Our Top Picks
- Helix Midnight Luxe – Best Overall
- Saatva Classic – Best California King for Back Sleepers
- Nectar Classic – Best California King Memory Foam Mattress
- Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Best Affordable California King Mattress
- DreamCloud Premier – Best California King Mattress Under $2000
- Nolah Original – Best California King Mattress in a Box
- WinkBed – Best California King Mattress for Back Pain
- Bear Original – Best California King Mattress for Couples
- Puffy Lux Hybrid – Best California King for Side Sleepers
- Dreamfoam Essential – Best California King Mattress Under $1000
Compare the Best California King Mattresses
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress | Saatva Mattress | Nectar Mattress | DreamCloud Premier Mattress | Nolah Original 10" Mattress | WinkBed Mattress | Bear Mattress | Puffy Lux Hybrid Mattress | Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress | |
| Rating | |||||||||
| Firmness | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Soft: 6/10 | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Medium-firm: 7/10 |
| Material | Hybrid | Innerspring | Foam | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid | Foam |
| Cooling | -- | ✓ | -- | ✓ | -- | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | -- |
| Sleep Position | Combination | Back & Stomach | Back & Side | Back | Back & Side | Combination | Back & Side | Back & Side | Back & Side |
How We Chose Our Top Picks
Our team of sleep specialists have reviewed more than 150 mattresses, using proprietary analysis and hands-on testing to establish easy-to-understand scores. In addition to an overall score, we measure subscores for support, edge support, cooling, motion transfer, durability, trial period, and warranty.
For this list of the best California king mattresses, we gathered a list of mattresses that range in terms of firmness, mattress type, and price. These mattresses are all available in a California king size and scored high during our general mattress testing.
Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
15-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress
The Helix Midnight Luxe is a luxurious hybrid mattress with plush comfort and great support.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
15-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress
The Helix Midnight Luxe is a luxurious hybrid mattress with plush comfort and great support.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
15-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
First on our royal tour, we have the Helix Midnight Luxe mattress. This mattress comes from Helix, a brand that is all about options. Helix offers mattresses that run the gamut from soft to firm, plush to supportive. One of the brand’s most popular models is the Helix Midnight Luxe, a luxurious hybrid mattress.
The Helix Midnight Luxe features a plush pillow top, a comfort layer of soft foam, and extra-supportive, zoned coils. This luxury design creates a sleeping surface that is both supportive and comfortable. At a perfect medium-firm, the Helix Midnight Luxe is ideal for back sleepers. You will feel your hips sink into the pillow top, while the zoning provides extra lumbar support.
If you want to avoid sleeping hot, the California king Helix Midnight Luxe is the cooling mattress you are looking for. It is breathable and features an airflow-promoting Tencel cover. If you like it even colder, opt for the GlacioTex cooling cover.
What our testers say: “The Helix Midnight Luxe is a step up from the standard Helix Midnight in every way. The memory foam on top is much thicker and it felt very good while I rested on my back and side. Back sleepers will also enjoy the zoned coils, which really helps with lumbar support. It is a luxury mattress, but well worth it.” – Marten Carlson, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the Helix Midnight Luxe
- Soft and plush for side sleeping
- Very durable
- Zoned support for back sleeping
Cons of the Helix Midnight Luxe
- Too soft for stomach sleeping
- Pricey for some
Read the full Helix Midnight Luxe mattress review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the Helix Midnight Luxe mattress, check out our list of the best overall mattresses for more great options!
Saatva Mattress
Material
Innerspring
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva Mattress
The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
Material
Innerspring
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva Mattress
The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
Material
Innerspring
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
When it comes to back sleeping, it’s all about balance. You need a mattress that is comfortable and will hug your curves, allowing your hips to sink in. At the same time, you need support to ensure you don’t sink in too far. The Saatva Classic strikes this balance perfectly.
The Saatva Classic is an innerspring mattress with a high-end design. It features not one but two sets of coils. It also boasts a zoned construction, pillow top, and is available in three firmnesses.
Back sleepers should prefer the Luxury Firm Saatva Classic model. It offers the best balance of comfort and support and works to keep you in perfect neutral spinal alignment. You will experience good lumbar support while the plush pillow top relieves pressure and conforms to your body.
What our testers say: “Saatva is great for its versatility, but the Luxury Firm model really fits most people’s needs, but especially back sleepers. This bed is slightly firmer than average, which wasn’t super great for me when I was side sleeping, but with two sets of coils, back sleepers won’t bottom out.” – Marten Carlson, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the Saatva Classic
- Bouncy and easy to move on
- Very supportive for back sleeping
- Won’t trap heat
Cons of the Saatva Classic
- Too firm for heavier side sleepers
- Won’t have a memory foam feel
Read the full Saatva Classic mattress review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the Saatva mattress, check out our list of the best mattresses for back sleepers for more great options!
Nectar Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nectar Mattress
Nectar is a very comfortable memory foam mattress that happens to also be an amazing value.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nectar Mattress
Nectar is a very comfortable memory foam mattress that happens to also be an amazing value.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
When you’re on the hunt for the best California king mattress, you want to keep your feel preferences in mind. If you like to lie on your mattress and slowly sink in, memory foam is going to do the trick. And, if you want memory foam fit for a king, take a look at the Nectar Classic mattress.
The Nectar Classic is an all-foam mattress that contains gel memory foam, responsive polyfoam, and supportive coils. This design gives you the benefits of memory foam without the drawbacks. Namely, you’ll get that soft memory foam experience without getting trapped or feeling stuck.
Memory foam mattresses are often a good match for side sleepers, and the Nectar Classic is no exception. It will provide nice pressure relief for the shoulders and hips while still keeping you in good alignment.
What our testers say: “The Nectar mattress is full of foam, and what I enjoy about it is how it makes pressure along my shoulders and hips disappear. It can be difficult to move around for some, but fans of memory foam should really enjoy this bed.” – Marten Carlson, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the Nectar
- Good for side sleepers
- Supportive for back sleeping
- Relatively affordable
Cons of the Nectar
- Too soft for stomach sleeping
Read the full Nectar Classic mattress review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the Nectar Classic mattress, check out our list of the best memory foam mattresses for more great options!
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
Brooklyn Bedding has amazing products that are sold at very affordable prices. This mattress is extremely high-quality and a great option for combination sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
Brooklyn Bedding has amazing products that are sold at very affordable prices. This mattress is extremely high-quality and a great option for combination sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Our Expert’s Take
One of the drawbacks of California king mattresses is that they cost more than smaller models. However, you can still get a comfortable, spacious California King without breaking the bank. That’s what Brooklyn Bedding is known for. They own their own factory and are able to price their bed-in-a-box mattresses very competitively.
The brand’s most popular model is the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress. This hybrid mattress contains high-density memory foam and a transition layer of proprietary VariFlex foam. Depending on your firmness preference, these layers might be thicker or thinner, giving you the exact comfort and support you desire.
I’m a big fan of the Medium model as it is a good match for multiple sleeping positions. It scored a 6.5/10 during my firmness tests, which is ideal for combination sleepers. Add in some good bounce, and you can move around with ease!
What our testers say: “Brooklyn Bedding makes a lot of mattresses, but they own their own factory, which helps customers save. The Brooklyn Bedding Signature is a great pick for a lot of people, as it has multiple firmnesses. I tested the medium and it worked really well on my side thanks to the thick foam. But it’s still easy to move around on with coils at the bottom” – Marten Carlson, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature
- Multiple firmnesses make it work for all sleepers
- Won’t trap heat
- Has foam, but coils make it easy to move on
Cons of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature
- Might not have luxury features
Read the full Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the Brooklyn Bedding mattress, check out our list of the best cheap mattresses for more great options!
DreamCloud Premier Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
DreamCloud Premier Mattress
DreamCloud Premier is a high-quality, luxury mattress that should appeal to a wide range of sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
DreamCloud Premier Mattress
DreamCloud Premier is a high-quality, luxury mattress that should appeal to a wide range of sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Our Expert’s Take
When you’re shopping for a California King, you may need a slightly larger budget to work with. If your royal purse only contains $2,000, don’t worry. The DreamCloud Premier is a high-quality California king mattress that costs less than $2,000.
The DreamCloud Premier is a hybrid mattress that contains some very high-quality materials. It features a soft, luxurious cashmere blend cover quilted with high-density foam. This creates a soft pillow top feel similar to what you might experience in a nice hotel. Below the pillow top, there are even more layers of foam over supportive coils.
This design creates a medium-firm sleeping surface that will work well for most back sleepers. The pillow top offers some nice contouring and comfort while the coils hold up your body. Average weight side sleepers could also feel some good pressure relief on the DreamCloud Premier.
What our testers say: “The DreamCloud Premier has it all: a bouncy feel, a pillow top comfort layer, and a breathable construction. I felt most comfortable while I was on my back. But if you’re a heavier sleeper like myself, it might not work for side sleeping. But all in all, a good affordable luxury pick.” – Marten Carlson, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the DreamCloud Premier
- Bouncy and easy to move around on
- Uses breathable materials
- Great for back sleeping
Cons of the DreamCloud Premier
- Not ideal for memory foam fans
Read the full DreamCloud Premier mattress review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the DreamCloud Premier mattress, check out our list of the best mattresses under $2000 for more great options!
Nolah Original 10" Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Nolah Original 10" Mattress
The Nolah Original 10" mattress works especially well for side sleepers, and it's sold at a value price.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Nolah Original 10" Mattress
The Nolah Original 10" mattress works especially well for side sleepers, and it's sold at a value price.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Our Expert’s Take
Did you know that royal comfort can come in a box? With the click of a button, you can have a high-quality online mattress delivered right to your doorstep – a mattress like the Nolah Original.
The Nolah Original is an all-foam mattress that offers the benefits of memory foam with few of the drawbacks. Lying on the Nolah, you will sink into its soft surface, but you should not feel like you are stuck in the mattress. This is because the bed’s proprietary Airfoam, which is soft but responsive as well.
The Airfoam is also designed to be more breathable than memory foam and should not trap body heat. Hot sleepers should be sleeping comfortably on the cooling Nolah Original mattress. That’s a lot of mattress to come out of one box!
What our testers say: “Bed-in-a-box mattresses are super convenient these days, and Nolah’s stands out amongst many of them. The foam is proprietary, called AirFoam, and won’t trap heat. It also feels much more responsive than traditional foam. I liked it for side sleeping because it offered a lot of pressure relief.” – Marten Carlson, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the Nolah Original
- Good for side sleepers
- Won’t trap heat
- Comes with a lifetime warranty
Cons of the Nolah Orginal
- Not supportive for stomach sleeping
Read the full Nolah Original mattress review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the Nolah Original mattress, check out our list of the best bed in a box mattresses for more great options!
WinkBed Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
WinkBed Mattress
The WinkBed is a mattress that offers an excellent balance of comfort and support.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
WinkBed Mattress
The WinkBed is a mattress that offers an excellent balance of comfort and support.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
If you struggle with back pain, whether you know it or not, your mattress might be to blame. Choosing a California king mattress such as the WinkBed could help prevent and alleviate back pain.
The WinkBed features a comfortable pillow top over supportive zoned coils. The WinkBed’s hybrid construction and zoning both work to support your lumbar area and keep your spine neutrally aligned.
Depending on your sleeping position, you can also choose from one of three firmness options. Side sleepers with back pain should opt for the Softer model, back sleepers the Luxury Firm, and stomach sleepers the Firmer model. The WinkBed has something for back pain sufferers of all stripes.
What our testes say: “Beds that feature zoned coils are great for back pain, and the WinkBed is one of the best out there. Zoned coils mean the bed will feel much firmer in the center, which provides lumbar support. I really felt it when testing the WinkBed and it really helps support my back.” – Marten Carlson, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the WinkBed
- Has a bouncy, traditional feel
- Won’t trap heat
- Comes in multiple firmnesses
Cons of the WinkBed
- Might be pricey for some
Read the full WinkBed mattress review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the WinkBed mattress, check out our list of the best mattresses for back pain for more great options!
Bear Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Bear Mattress
The Bear Original mattress sleeps cool and is quite comfortable. It's a particularly good option for athletes.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Bear Mattress
The Bear Original mattress sleeps cool and is quite comfortable. It's a particularly good option for athletes.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
If you sleep with a partner, a California king mattress could be just what the doctor ordered. A California king will give you and your partner more room to stretch out and move around. However, if you want a California king that is even better for couples, take a look at the Bear Original mattress.
The Bear Original is a memory foam mattress that will help cut down on motion transfer between partners. Memory foam can absorb the motion you and your partner make at night, ensuring you don’t disturb one another. You should be sleeping soundly on the Bear Original, even if your partner is jumping around on the other side.
Overheating is another issue that couples deal with. However, while it is an all-foam mattress, the Bear Original sleeps quite cool. With a breathable cover and cooling, gel-infused top layer, you and your partner shouldn’t feel like you’re sleeping in an oven.
What our testers say: “Couples usually want a mattress that lets both get out of bed or change positions without bothering the other. With a California King Bear mattress, that definitely won’t be a problem. Being an all-foam bed, it will absorb motion and you won’t notice anything. I like it for side sleeping, but back sleepers will get good body contouring, too.” – Joe Auer, Reviewer
Pros of the Bear
- All-foam construction absorbs motion
- Good for side sleeping
- Has that slow-moving foam feel
Cons of the Bear
- Might not be easy to move around on
- Too soft for stomach sleeping
Read the full Bear Original mattress review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the Bear Original mattress, check out our list of the best mattresses for couples for more great options!
Puffy Lux Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
101 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Puffy Lux Hybrid Mattress
The Puffy Lux Hybrid is a luxurious mattress that provides great pressure relief, especially for side sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
101 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Puffy Lux Hybrid Mattress
The Puffy Lux Hybrid is a luxurious mattress that provides great pressure relief, especially for side sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
101 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
When it comes to side sleeping, your California king mattress should be all about pressure relief. When you lie on your side, your weight is concentrated on your shoulders and hips, and you need something to relieve pressure build-up in those areas. That’s why I’m such a big fan of the Puffy Lux Hybrid mattress.
The Puffy Lux Hybrid features a few layers of soft, comfortable foam right on top of the mattress. These materials really let you sink in, relieving pressure on your shoulders and hips. At the same time, the individually-wrapped coils hold up your body, keeping your body straight and neutrally aligned. This will help prevent other pain and joint issues over time.
Also, if you switch from your side to your back, the Puffy Lux Hybrid will offer the support you require. You’ll feel the top foam layers conform to your body while the coils support you.
What our testers say: “Side sleepers who want a cloud-like bed that offers pressure relief should get exactly that in the Puffy Lux hybrid. This bed has some thick memory foam, but it’s way more responsive than standard foam. This means it offers really good pressure relief while still being easy to move around on.” – Elisa Regulski, Reviewer
Pros of the Puffy Lux
- Offers good pressure relief for side sleepers
- Easy to move around on
- Won’t trap heat
Cons of the Puffy Lux
- Too soft for stomach sleepers
- Heavy sleepers may need more support
Read the full Puffy Lux Hybrid mattress review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the Puffy Lux Hybrid mattress, check out our list of the best mattresses for side sleepers for more great options!
Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress
The Dreamfoam Essential is a cooling, affordable memory foam mattress that comes in multiple thicknesses.
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress
The Dreamfoam Essential is a cooling, affordable memory foam mattress that comes in multiple thicknesses.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Our Expert’s Take
If you only have $1,000 to spend on your new mattress, it may be difficult to find a quality California king. However, the Dreamfoam Essential costs less than $1,000 for a California king and still features nice materials.
Dreamfoam is a value brand, and the Essential is one of its most popular models. This all-foam mattress comes in a variety of thicknesses – 6”, 8”, 10”, 12”, and 14”. Even if you opt for the 14” mattress, it will still cost less than $1,000 for a California king.
These variable thicknesses and firmness levels make the Dreamfoam Essential good for any sleeping position. If you are a back or stomach sleeper, you can choose one of the thinner models. Side sleepers should pick one of the thicker, softer models. It’s all about options and not breaking the bank!
What our testers say: “The Dreamfoam Essential has different heights to match a lot of needs. I tested the 12” model and for me, it worked the best for back sleeping. While on my side, I did feel like I was sinking way too far into the mattress, which put some pressure on my joints. But for budget shoppers who want an all-foam feel, who are also a bit smaller than me, this should work out just fine.” – Marten Carlson, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the Dreamfoam Essential
- Queens are less than $1,000
- Slow-moving feel
- Different height models for different needs
Cons of the Dreamfoam Essential
- Not the most durable mattress
Read the full Dreamfoam Essential mattress review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the Dreamfoam Essential mattress, check out our list of the best mattresses under $1000 for more great options!
Who Should Buy a California King Mattress?
Is a California king mattress right for you? Here are a few of the types of sleepers who should consider a California king.
- People with a more spacious bedroom. Let’s face it – California king size mattresses are big and take up quite a bit of space. If you have a large master bedroom with more space to play with, a California king is a great choice. Keep in mind that California king mattresses are 84” long, so your bedroom should be long enough to fit it.
- Taller people. I’m 6’7”, and I personally sleep on a California king mattress. Even a regular king mattress is not long enough for someone of my height. It’s no fun to have your feet hanging off the end of the bed, and a California king gives you the most length possible.
- Couples. If you sleep with a partner, California king mattresses are a great option. You get 72” of width, which is much wider than a 60” queen. That’s a lot of room for two sleepers to lie next to one another. Also, if you or your partner are on the taller side, a California king will offer the necessary space.
California King vs King Mattress
If you’ve narrowed down your decision to a king mattress, you’ll now have to decide between a standard king or a California king bed. A standard king mattress is 76” wide and 80” long, while a California king mattress is 72” wide and 84” long. Basically, a standard king size bed is wider, and a California king mattress is longer.
Because standard King and California king mattresses are usually the same price, choosing between them really comes down to your size, your partner’s size, and the size of your bedroom. If you and your partner are heavier weight, a standard king will be the better option. That extra 4” of width will give you and your partner more space horizontally.
However, if you and your partner are slimmer and taller, a California king size will be the better choice. You won’t need as much width, and that extra 4” of length could offer some clutch leg room.
You also want to keep the size of your bedroom in mind. Standard and California king mattresses are some of the largest mattresses out there, and you want to make sure your bedroom can accommodate them. If you have a wider bedroom that isn’t too long, a standard California king will fit your space better. If your bedroom is longer but not too wide, a California king could be the better choice.
RELATED: California King vs King
California King vs Queen
Queen mattresses are extremely popular, but they are smaller than California king mattresses. A standard queen mattress is 60” wide and 80” long. Compared to a 72” x 84” California king, a queen mattress is both slimmer and shorter. However, queen mattresses do cost less than California king mattresses.
Queen mattresses are going to be better if you have a smaller bedroom. If your bedroom isn’t too long or wide, a queen mattress could fit those smaller confines. A California king mattress will be a better fit if you have more space to work with. A huge master bedroom might just look better when it contains a larger California king mattress.
Queen mattresses will work for smaller couples, but larger, taller couples should choose a California king. If you are a smaller couple, you can save money by going with a queen mattress.\
Summary
One last time, here are our best California king mattresses:
| Mattress | Best For: |
| Helix Midnight Luxe | Best Overall |
| Saatva Classic | Best California King for Back Sleepers |
| Nectar Classic | Best California King Memory Foam Mattress |
| Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid | Best Affordable California King Mattress |
| DreamCloud Premier | Best California King Under $2000 |
| Nolah Original | Best California King Mattress in a Box |
| WinkBed | Best California King Mattress for Back Pain |
| Puffy Lux Hybrid | Best California King for Side Sleepers |
| Dreamfoam Essential | Best California King Under $1000 |
Best California King Mattress FAQs
Will a California king fit a king frame?
No, a California king mattress will not fit on a king bed frame. A California king mattress will be too long for a king bed frame and will also be too narrow. This will leave some unwanted space between the frame and the mattress.
How much does a California king mattress weigh?
California king mattresses can weigh as little as 130 lb or as much as 180 lb.
Is a California king bigger than a king?
While a California king mattress is 4” longer than a king mattress, it is 4” narrower.
