Stuck choosing between a double or a queen bed? It's a common dilemma. Put simply, a queen bed gives couples more room to spread out, whereas a double is fantastic for single sleepers or fitting into smaller rooms. The right choice really comes down to whether you crave that extra personal space or need to make every square metre of your floor count.
Choosing Your Perfect Bed Size: A Quick Guide
Trying to get your head around bed sizes can feel like a bit of a mission, but it gets a lot clearer once you know the key differences. The double bed, sometimes called a full, used to be the go-to for couples. These days, it’s more often seen as a spacious upgrade for a single person, a great fit for a growing teen, or a smart solution for a guest room where space is tight.
The queen bed, however, has firmly taken its place as the most popular choice for couples across New Zealand. That little bit of extra width and length might not seem like a game-changer on paper, but it genuinely improves sleep quality by giving you both space to move without waking each other up.
We've been helping Kiwis get a great night's sleep since 1986. In our experience, while a double is perfect for specific situations, the queen consistently provides the comfort and space that most couples are looking for today.
This guide gives you a straightforward, practical comparison based on standard New Zealand sizes. We'll walk through everything you need to know to feel confident about your next bed. If you want to see how these sizes stack up against others, check out our full NZ Bed Size Guide.
Double vs Queen at a Glance
To make things easy, here’s a quick look at how the double and queen beds compare. This table breaks down the essentials to help you see the right fit for your home at a glance.
| Feature | Double Bed | Queen Bed |
|---|---|---|
| NZ Dimensions | 137cm x 188cm | 153cm x 203cm |
| Best For | Single adults, teenagers, guest rooms | Couples, taller individuals |
| Room Size | Smaller rooms (approx. 3m x 3m) | Master bedrooms (approx. 3.2m x 3.5m) |
| Primary Benefit | Space-efficient and budget-friendly | Ample space for two, less disturbance |
Looking at the numbers side-by-side, you can immediately see how the queen's extra dimensions translate into more personal space, making it the preferred option for shared beds.
Why More Kiwis Are Choosing Queen Beds
Have a wander through any modern Kiwi home, and you'll likely spot a clear trend in the master bedroom. The trusty double bed, once the go-to for couples, has been well and truly overtaken. Nowadays, the queen bed is the undisputed favourite, cementing its place as the new standard for shared sleeping spaces across Aotearoa.
This isn't just a random shift in taste. It speaks to a bigger change in how we think about our sleep and set up our homes. Kiwis are realising more and more that a solid night's rest is non-negotiable for good health, and having enough personal space is a huge part of that. The extra room a queen offers is the perfect solution, cutting down on partner disturbance and leading to a deeper, more refreshing sleep.
The Numbers Tell the Story
You only have to look at the sales figures to see what's happening. Recent market analysis for New Zealand shows that queen-sized mattresses made up about 62% of all mattress sales in 2023. Double beds? They came in at just 28%. It's a clear signal that Kiwi shoppers are actively choosing more generous sleeping dimensions.
When you think about the practical side of things, this move makes perfect sense. A queen bed hits that sweet spot—it’s roomy enough for two people to sleep comfortably without bumping elbows, yet it doesn’t overwhelm the average Kiwi master bedroom. It's the ideal compromise between personal comfort and a practical floor plan.
A Modern Solution for Modern Lifestyles
So, what's behind the queen bed's surge in popularity? A few key factors are making it the centrepiece of today's Kiwi bedrooms.
- Better Sleep Quality: This is the big one. People simply want undisturbed sleep. A queen gives each person more space to move around without accidentally waking their partner—a classic culprit for a rough night.
- A Good Fit for Taller Folks: As Kiwis have gotten taller over the years, the extra length of a queen (203cm vs. the double's 188cm) has become a game-changer. No more feet dangling off the end of the bed.
- Looks Great in Modern Rooms: Newer homes and apartments are often designed with a queen bed in mind for the main bedroom. It just looks right, creating a balanced and inviting focal point that feels both luxurious and deliberate.
At New Zealand Bed Company, we see this every day in our showrooms. Time and again, customers tell us they’re upgrading from a double because they're ready to invest in better sleep and stop the nightly fight for space. It’s a simple change that makes a huge difference, straight away.
Ultimately, the shift to queen beds shows we're no longer willing to compromise on comfort. For anyone wanting to dig into the specifics, you might find our guide on what size a queen mattress is and its benefits really helpful. It’s clear that for most Kiwi couples, the thoughtful design of a queen bed lays the perfect foundation for a great night's sleep.
A Detailed Comparison of Bed Dimensions
When you’re weighing up a double bed versus a queen, it really comes down to the numbers. While the names give you a rough idea, the exact measurements tell the real story about comfort, personal space, and whether you'll get a decent night's sleep. Getting your head around these dimensions is the first step to finding the right fit for your home and lifestyle.
Here in New Zealand, our standard sizes are set. A double bed measures 137cm wide by 188cm long, while a queen bed comes in at 153cm wide by 203cm long. On paper, it might not look like a massive leap, but those few extra centimetres make a world of difference when you're lying in it night after night.
That difference works out to be an extra 16cm of width and 15cm of length when you choose a queen. This is where the real value is, particularly if you’re sharing the bed or are on the taller side.
What Do These Measurements Mean for Your Sleep?
Let’s translate those numbers into real-world comfort. That extra 16cm of width you get with a queen is an absolute game-changer for couples. When two people share a double, each person has just 68.5cm of personal space. To give you some perspective, a standard baby’s cot is often wider than that.
Moving up to a queen boosts that personal sleeping zone to 76.5cm per person. This added room is crucial for cutting down on partner disturbance. It means you can roll over, find a new comfy spot, or slip out of bed without waking the person next to you—leading to deeper, more restorative sleep for both of you.
The most common complaint we hear from couples sleeping on a double is about partner disturbance. That small increase in width on a queen is often the single most effective solution for a better night's sleep together.
The sales figures really speak for themselves. Kiwis have a clear favourite, and it's all about getting that extra space.
The data shows Kiwis are voting with their wallets, and the verdict is in: the superior space and comfort of a queen bed wins out.
Don't Overlook the Importance of Length
While width is a big deal for couples, that extra 15cm of length on a queen is a non-negotiable for taller people. A double bed is only 188cm long, which is about 6’2”. If you’re anywhere near that height, you’ll know the feeling of your feet dangling off the end, forcing you to sleep curled up or on a diagonal.
A queen’s 203cm length (roughly 6’8”) provides plenty of room to stretch out properly. This simple change prevents the discomfort and poor circulation that comes from being too tall for your bed, helping you wake up feeling refreshed, not stiff. If you want to dive deeper into the specifics, our guide on NZ double bed dimensions in cm has more detail.
Visualising the Space: A Side-by-Side Breakdown
To put it all into perspective, a simple table can make the differences crystal clear. It's not just about length and width; the total sleeping area is a powerful measure of overall comfort.
NZ Bed Size Specification Breakdown
| Specification | NZ Double Bed | NZ Queen Bed | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Width | 137 cm | 153 cm | +16 cm on Queen |
| Length | 188 cm | 203 cm | +15 cm on Queen |
| Total Surface Area | 2.58 m² | 3.11 m² | +20% More Space on Queen |
| Width Per Person | 68.5 cm | 76.5 cm | +8 cm Per Person on Queen |
That 20% increase in total surface area is a huge upgrade. It’s more than just a little extra elbow room—it's a significant boost in personal comfort that directly impacts your sleep health for years to come. This is exactly why, in the great double vs. queen debate, the queen almost always comes out on top for couples and master bedrooms.
Matching Your Bed to Your Bedroom and Lifestyle
Choosing between a double and a queen bed goes far beyond just looking at the measurements. It's about making a smart, practical decision that fits how you actually live. The right bed should work with your room's layout and your daily habits, ensuring you get a great night's sleep without compromises. Thinking through a few real-world scenarios can save you from buyer's remorse down the track.
Let's face it, the bed is the centrepiece of any bedroom. Its size dictates the entire flow and function of the space. Nailing this choice means creating a sanctuary that feels balanced and functional, whether it's for your master bedroom or a guest room that only gets used occasionally.
The Double Bed: Your Versatile Space-Saver
When floor space is at a premium, a double bed is a brilliant, versatile option. Its compact footprint makes it the hero of smaller Kiwi bedrooms, university hostels, and guest spaces where you need to strike that perfect balance between comfort and practicality. It's a generous upgrade for a single sleeper without completely taking over the room.
Think about these common situations where a double bed is the smartest move:
- The Teenager's Retreat: As kids shoot up into their teenage years, they need more room to stretch out than a single can offer. A double gives them that extra space for sleeping and lounging, while still leaving enough floor area for a desk, wardrobe, and all their gear.
- The Spare Room Solution: A double is the perfect size for a guest room. It comfortably sleeps a single visitor or a couple for a short stay, all without making the room feel cramped. There's still plenty of room for their luggage and other furniture.
- The First Home or Apartment: In smaller master bedrooms, especially in apartments or starter homes, a double bed can be a clever compromise. It gives you a comfortable place to sleep while preserving precious walking space, making the whole room feel more open and liveable.
A double bed is the ultimate utility player. It’s the smart, budget-conscious choice for single sleepers who want more room or for guest spaces where a larger bed would simply be impractical.
By choosing a double in these scenarios, you’re making a deliberate decision that puts the room's function first. It's all about getting the right fit for the job.
The Queen Bed: The New Standard for Couples
For couples, the choice between a double and a queen is often a much easier one. A queen bed is now widely seen as the non-negotiable standard for two people sharing a bed, and for very good reason. That extra width and length translate directly into better sleep quality and a more peaceful bedroom.
A queen really shines in these situations:
- The Master Bedroom Essential: For any couple sharing a bed long-term, a queen is our minimum recommendation. It gives each person enough individual space to move around without bumping into each other—a major cause of partner disturbance and poor sleep.
- For Taller Individuals: Anyone getting close to or over six feet tall will find the extra length of a queen essential. That additional 15cm stops your feet from dangling off the end, which helps with better posture and a far more restful sleep.
- The Pet-Friendly Household: If you share your bed with a furry friend (or two!), the extra space a queen provides becomes even more valuable. It gives everyone—you, your partner, and your pet—enough room to find a comfy spot without feeling crowded out.
A queen isn't just a bigger bed; it's an investment in your relationship and your overall well-being. The better sleep it offers can have a huge positive impact on your daily life. And for those looking to squeeze every bit of utility out of their bedroom, a queen bed with storage is a fantastic way to combine serious comfort with smart practicality.
Making the Right Call for Your Lifestyle
Ultimately, your lifestyle should be your guide. Are you a solo sleeper who loves to sprawl out like a starfish? A double might be your perfect match. Are you a couple who values undisturbed sleep above all else? Then a queen is the clear winner.
It’s also worth thinking about your future. A double bed that works perfectly for you now might feel a bit tight if your situation changes. A queen, on the other hand, offers a level of comfort and flexibility that can adapt with you over time, making it a sound long-term investment for most Kiwi homes.
Comparing Costs: Bedding and Accessories
When you're weighing up a double bed versus a queen, the sticker price of the mattress is just the beginning. The real cost comes into play over the life of the bed, covering everything from sheets and duvets to headboards. Thinking about these ongoing expenses from the start can save you a lot of hassle and money down the track.
Your biggest initial spend will, of course, be the mattress itself. As a rule of thumb, a queen mattress will cost a little more than a double from the same model range. That small price bump accounts for the extra materials needed to create a larger, more supportive bed. At New Zealand Bed Company, we make sure both sizes deliver fantastic value, whether you're after a budget-friendly first bed or a top-of-the-line luxury model.
The True Cost of Bedding
This is where things get interesting. The cost and sheer availability of bedding can really sway your decision, and it’s an area where the queen bed has a clear edge for most Kiwis. Because the queen is New Zealand's most popular bed size, the market for bedding is absolutely huge.
This popularity translates into some serious benefits for shoppers:
- So Much Choice: You’ll find an enormous selection of colours, fabrics, and styles for queen bedding, from basic cotton sets to high-end linen.
- Better Prices: More brands mean more competition, which often makes it easier to find queen-sized sheets and duvet covers on sale.
- Shopping is a Breeze: You can find a great range of queen bedding in just about any home goods store across the country, making it simple to grab what you need.
You can still find plenty of bedding for a double, but the range is often smaller. You might discover fewer designer options or a more limited colour palette, which can sometimes mean paying a premium for the exact style you’re after.
The overwhelming popularity of the queen bed in New Zealand makes finding stylish, affordable, high-quality bedding an absolute breeze. This long-term convenience is a massive plus.
Headboards and Other Accessories
The same logic applies to furniture like headboards and bed frames. Manufacturers know where the demand is, so they produce far more styles and designs for queen beds. Whether you want a simple upholstered headboard or a statement-making wooden frame, you’ll have a much bigger pool to choose from in a queen size.
This isn’t to say you can’t find beautiful accessories for a double bed, but you may need to hunt a bit harder. For a bespoke bedroom design, this won't be a problem, but if you value having plenty of choice right off the shelf, the queen offers a much smoother ride.
Making It Affordable for Your Home
We firmly believe a fantastic night's sleep should be within everyone's reach, no matter which size you land on. That’s why we have our Best Price Guarantee—to ensure you get incredible value on your new mattress. If you want to be extra savvy during sales, our guide to finding a great mattress sale in New Zealand is packed with useful tips.
To help you manage the total cost of your new bedroom setup, we also offer flexible, interest-free finance options for up to 36 months. This lets you spread out the cost of your mattress, base, and all the trimmings over time, making it easier to invest in quality sleep without breaking the bank. It makes choosing either a double or a queen bed a practical and affordable decision for any Kiwi home.
Making the Final Call with Confidence
Walking through the world of beds can feel a bit much, but hopefully, the choice between a double and a queen is now a lot clearer. It all boils down to three things: the size of your bedroom, who's sleeping in the bed, and what you're looking to spend on the mattress and all the trimmings.
A double bed is a brilliant, space-savvy option for single sleepers, growing teenagers, or the spare room. It delivers plenty of comfort without taking over the whole floor, making it a seriously practical and versatile choice.
On the other hand, the queen bed has well and truly earned its place as the go-to for Kiwi couples. That bit of extra width and length makes a world of difference in cutting down on partner disturbance, ensuring you both get a proper night's rest. It’s an investment in your well-being, really.
Ultimately, your lifestyle is the deciding factor. Think about what you need right now, but also cast your mind forward a few years. A queen offers that extra flexibility for whatever life throws your way, whether that’s a new partner or a furry friend who insists on hogging the covers.
Your Next Steps to a Perfect Sleep
Ready to take the plunge? We're here to make the rest of the process as easy and enjoyable as possible. Whether you'd rather shop from your sofa or come and test them out for yourself, we've got you covered.
Our main goal is to give you everything you need to choose with total certainty.
- Explore Our Collection Online: Take a look at our handpicked range of double and queen beds on our website. You can easily filter by size, feel, and price to find what you're looking for.
- Try Our Sleep Selector Tool: Not quite sure where to start? Our simple Sleep Selector tool will ask a few quick questions about how you sleep and what you like to recommend the ideal mattress.
- Visit Us In-Store: Sometimes you just can't beat the real thing. Pop into one of our stores across the country to feel the difference for yourself. Our friendly sleep experts are always on hand for a chat, offering personalised advice to help with any last-minute questions.
Buying a new bed is a big deal, and it should be exciting, not stressful. Our team is all about giving you clear, honest advice without any sales pressure. We just want to make sure you find a bed you’ll be happy with for years to come.
Choosing between a double bed vs queen is an important decision, but it doesn't need to be a tough one. By focusing on your unique needs for space, comfort, and lifestyle, you can pick the perfect bed with confidence. Here at New Zealand Bed Company, we’re committed to helping you get it right.
Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing between a double and a queen often comes down to a few final details. We get these questions all the time in our showrooms, so we've put together some straight-up answers to help you lock in your decision with confidence.
Can Two Adults Sleep Comfortably on a Double Bed?
Look, it's possible, but it’s a serious squeeze. A standard double gives each person just 68.5cm of space. To put that in perspective, that’s less width than a baby gets in a cot. For a night or two in the guest room, you'll manage.
But for a couple sharing a bed every night? We always recommend a queen as the bare minimum. That bit of extra room makes a world of difference in cutting down on partner disturbance, so you both get the deep, restorative sleep you need.
For couples, upgrading from a double to a queen is often the single biggest improvement they can make to their sleep quality. It’s a simple change that ends the nightly battle for space.
Is There a Big Difference in the Cost of Bedding?
Yes, there is, but it's more about variety than just the price tag. The queen is New Zealand's most popular bed size by a long shot. That means you’ll find a massive range of sheets, duvet covers, and protectors in just about every shop. More competition generally means more styles and better prices for you.
You can still find beautiful bedding for a double, of course. But the selection is often smaller, which can be frustrating if you're after high-end fabrics or a specific designer look.
I Am Tall – Will a Double Bed Be Long Enough?
This is a really important one for taller Kiwis. A standard NZ double bed is 188cm long, which is just over 6'1". If you're anywhere near that height, you’re almost guaranteed to have your feet dangling off the end.
A queen bed is the clear winner here. At 203cm long (or about 6'8"), it gives you that crucial extra legroom to properly stretch out. It’s the difference between a great night's sleep and waking up feeling cramped.
Ready to find the perfect bed for your home? The experts at New Zealand Bed Company are here to help you choose with confidence. Explore our complete collection of high-quality double and queen beds online today.