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The 7 Best Split King Adjustable Beds in 2023

We researched the top brands to find the best split king adjustable beds for different preferences and sleeping positions.
Aug 21, 2023
Written by:
Medical Reviewer:
Reviewed by: BSPharm, MPH, Senior Director, NCOA Center for Healthy Aging
Fact Checked

Key Takeaways for Split King Adjustable Beds

  • Split king adjustable beds consist of two adjustable bases joined together side by side with two twin XL mattresses.
  • Each half of the base has a dedicated remote control sleepers can use to control their half of the bed.
  • Split king adjustable beds cost between $1,798 and $3,798 among the models we recommend.

A split king adjustable bed, where each side may be adjusted independently, is a popular option for couples who have different sleep preferences and different wind-down routines when it comes to sleeping, reading, working, watching TV, or eating.

Most manufacturers sell split adjustable beds in two sizes: king and California king. The main difference between a California king vs. a king is the size. The measurements of a king size bed average around 80 inches long by 76 inches wide, while a California king is typically 84 inches long by 72 inches wide, depending on the manufacturer.

Because there are two separate mattresses, split king beds tend to provide less sleep interruption when a sleep partner moves, compared with a bed that has one shared mattress. While there are various options to choose from, our Reviews Team narrowed our top picks down to five, taking into account the value, features, sleeping positions, ease of use, and more to help you choose the best split king adjustable bed for your needs. You can also read our review of the best adjustable bed frames for more options.

The best split king adjustable beds of 2023

  1. Best Overall: Saatva Adjustable Base Plus
  2. Simplest Design: Sealy Ease Power Base
  3. Best Value: Puffy Adjustable Base
  4. Best for Massage Programs: GhostBed Adjustable Base
  5. Most Customizable: Purple Premium Plus Smart Base
  6. Most Advanced: Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Ergo Smart Base
  7. Best for Upper-Body Adjustability: Sleep Number FlexFit 1 Smart Base

Best Split King Adjustable Beds

Best Overall: Saatva Adjustable Base Plus

A Saatva Adjustable Base Plus for a split king bed with each half in different head and foot configurations.

The Saatva Adjustable Base Plus is our pick for best overall split king adjustable bed.

Pros Excellent company reviews Free white-glove delivery California split king option Wall-hugging feature Adjustable legs Higher weight capacity than competitors
Cons No app No trial period

Score: 4.45/5

Price: $2,598 (does not include price of mattresses)

Payment options: American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Visa, Google Pay, PayPal, and Affirm

Trial period: None

Warranty: 25-year

Dimensions: 80 inches long by 76 inches wide

Weight capacity: 850 pounds for each twin XL base, including the weight of the mattress (Saatva twin XL mattresses weigh between 62–95 pounds)

After taking into consideration price, features, delivery, warranty, manufacturer reputation, and customer reviews, our Reviews Team gave the Saatva Adjustable Base Plus the designation of “Best Overall” in split king adjustable beds. It comes in a regular king size or a California king size, to suit taller sleepers. Each side functions independently and includes all of the following features:

  • Five preset buttons: zero-gravity, anti-snore, flat, maximum head height position, and custom
  • Safety lock
  • Wall-hugging feature that keeps nightstands within reach
  • Full-body, head, or leg massage with three-speed options and 15-minute timer
  • Under-bed lighting plus a built-in flashlight on the remote

Like many adjustable bed bases, this Saatva base has a zero-gravity setting, which is achieved by lying on your back and raising your legs and head just above the level of your heart. It places your body in a position that mimics the state of complete weightlessness and gives you the sensation of floating.

Adjustable bed presets commonly found on a remote control

You can find preset buttons on most adjustable base remote controllers, although they may differ between brands and models.

The Saatva split king adjustable base has a zero-clearance design that allows the base to be used either without legs on a platform bed frame or with adjustable legs. If used with adjustable legs, you can adjust the base height from 13–18 inches.

The Adjustable Base Plus has a weight capacity of 850 pounds per side of the bed, which is the highest weight capacity among the adjustable beds we mention in this article.

Saatva provides free white-glove delivery, meaning its team members will deliver and set up the bed for you. They will remove the packaging and even remove your old mattress and box spring free of charge. The 25-year warranty consists of a 5-year full warranty followed by another 20 years of limited warranty. Saatva does not accept returns on adjustable bed frames, so all sales are final.

Compatible mattresses

When choosing a split king adjustable bed frame, you will need two twin XL adjustable-bed-compatible mattresses.

If you want to use a non-Saatva mattress with your Saatva adjustable base, contact the manufacturer to verify whether the mattress is compatible with an adjustable base.

Customer service and reviews

Saatva has an A+ rating and a score of 4.75 out of 5 stars based on more than 1,500 reviews with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). The few complaints that have been made relate to delays in delivery times, difficulties with returns, and the quality of Saatva mattresses. Most of the reviews are not specific to split king adjustable bed frames. Saatva has 4.5 out of 5 stars based on more than 1,000 reviews with Trustpilot. Overall, customers are happy with its 24/7 customer service, as Saatva has the highest customer satisfaction rating of any company in our review.

If you need help choosing a bed frame or mattress, or if you have questions about your order, you can contact Saatva by:

  • Phone: (877-672-2882) available 24/7
  • Email: (info@saatva.com)
  • 24/7 live chat on the Saatva website

If you want to see a Saatva adjustable base in person, your options are limited to eight viewing rooms across the United States.

Read more in our full Saatva review.

Simplest Design: Sealy Ease Power Base

Sealy Ease Power Base split king adjustable bed

Pros Basic, easy-to-use remote Free delivery and in-home setup Discount when buying bed base and mattress together
Cons No massage feature No trial period

Score: 3.43/5

Price: $1,798 (does not include price of mattresses)

Payment options: American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Visa, and financing through Sealy Credit

Trial period: None

Warranty: 25 years

Dimensions: 79.5 inches long by 75 inches wide

Weight capacity: 650 pounds for each twin XL base, including the weight of the mattress, or 250 pounds per person

The Sealy Ease Power Base is a good choice for those who want a simple design and aren’t interested in high-tech features. The split king size comes with two remote controls that allow you to adjust the head and foot of each base. The Ease Power Base doesn’t have massage capabilities, but it does include the following features:

  • Head and foot position adjustments
  • Wireless remote
  • Two preset buttons: Zero-gravity and flat
  • Adjustable height legs

The Ease Power Base has a simple wireless remote with preset, head adjustment and foot adjustment buttons.

Sealy Ease Power Base adjustable bed remote

The Ease Power Base remote has simple controls with preset buttons for flat and Zero-G positions.

Sealy offers free in-home delivery and setup, along with a “one-to-one” policy for removal. This means that if you purchase an adjustable bed frame, it will remove your old bed frame. If you purchase an adjustable bed frame along with a mattress, it will remove your old bed frame and mattress.

There’s no trial period for this adjustable bed, but it does come with a 25-year warranty.

Compatible mattresses

All Sealy mattresses are compatible with the Ease Power Base. The mattresses come with a 90-night trial and a 10-year warranty.

If you purchase a Sealy mattress along with an Ease Power Base, you can get a discount of $200 off your total purchase.

Customer service and reviews

Sealy reviews on BBB and Trustpilot are listed under its parent company, Tempur Sealy International Inc. On BBB, it is an accredited business with a grade of A+, but it received a rating of 1.03 out of 5 stars from an average of 148 customer reviews at the time this article was written. On Trustpilot, it had three reviews with a rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars. There aren’t many reviews from Sealy customers specifically, but one reviewer mentioned that customer service was slow to respond to their return requests.

If you need help choosing a bed frame or mattress or have questions about your order, you can contact Sealy by:

  • Phone: (888-400-8856), available 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET Saturday; and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET Sunday
  • Email: (consumersupport@sealy.com)
  • Contact form on its website

Sealy has retailers that have adjustable beds on display for you to view and test out. For more information, check out our in depth Sealy review.

Best Value: Puffy Adjustable Base

A Puffy adjustable split king base with each half in different head and foot configurations.

The Puffy adjustable base has two USB charging ports on each side of the base and adjustable legs.

Pros 101-night trial period Lifetime warranty Low price Adjustable legs
Cons No white-glove delivery No app Lower weight capacity than competitors

Score: 3.60/5

Price: $2,099 (does not include price of mattresses)

Payment options: American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, Klarna

Trial Period: 101-night

Warranty: Lifetime

Dimensions:80 inches long by 76 inches wide

Weight capacity: 400 pounds for each twin XL base, including the weight of the mattress (Puffy twin XL mattresses weigh between 30–61 pounds)

If you are unsure about which bed to choose or about owning a split king box spring in general, consider the Puffy Adjustable Base, as it comes with a 101-night free trial period and lifetime full warranty. If you are not happy with the adjustable bed for any reason within 101 days, Puffy will pick up the bed, donate it to charity, and provide a full refund. The Puffy warranty covers any defects due to faulty workmanship or materials that may arise as long as you own the Puffy adjustable base.

Some noteworthy features of the Puffy split king adjustable base include:

  • Four USB charging ports
  • Dual-zone massage with three speeds and a timer
  • Universal headboard attachment
  • Adjustable legs
  • LED under-bed lighting
  • Zero-gravity, flat, and two custom-programmable presets
  • Wireless remote control with a built-in flashlight

The adjustable legs provide five different options for adjusting the height of the base within a range of 2–11.5 inches above the ground.

Two drawbacks of the Puffy split king adjustable bed are that there is no mobile phone app, and you must assemble the bed base yourself. With free two-to-five day delivery, you’ll receive a large box at your door, and the rest is up to you. Make sure you have help to get the adjustable base moved into your home and assembled.

Compatible mattresses

Puffy states that its adjustable bases may be used with any mattress.

Customer service and reviews

Puffy has an A+ rating and 2.06 out of 5 stars with the BBB, but it is not accredited. Most customer complaints involve delivery delays and damaged items and are from 2021, which may be related to pandemic supply chain issues. There were very few complaints in 2022. Puffy fares slightly better on Trustpilot with 3.7 out of 5 stars out of more than 70 reviews. Most customer complaints reference the comfort and quality of the mattresses. Positive reviews mention excellent customer service and confirmation that the company honors the generous return policy as advertised.

If you need help choosing a bed frame or mattress, or if you have questions about your order, you can contact Puffy by:

  • Phone: (800-430-8380) available 6:30 a.m. to 8 pm PT, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT, Saturday and Sunday
  • Email: (support@puffy.com)
  • Contact form on its website

If you want to test a Puffy bed in person, you can use its online store locator to locate the nearest Puffy retailer.

Read more in our dedicated Puffy Mattress review.

Best for Massage Programs: GhostBed Adjustable Base

GhostBed Adjustable Base split king adjustable bed

Pros 15 massage programs Lifetime warranty Adjustable legs
Cons No white-glove delivery No app

Score: 3.53/5

Price: $3,398 (does not include price of mattresses)

Payment options: American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Visa, Amazon Pay, Bitpay, Google Pay, Meta Pay, Shop Pay, and Affirm

Trial Period: None

Warranty: Lifetime

Dimensions: 79 inches long by 74 inches wide

Weight capacity: 750 pounds, including the weight of the mattress and bedding

The GhostBed adjustable base has head and foot massage zones that you can control via its wireless remote. You can choose from three intensities, three modes, and 15 massage programs (patterns). The massages also have a timer feature, so you can set it up before you sleep, and it will automatically shut off. In addition to its many massage programs, the GhostBed adjustable base comes with several features:

  • Four USB charging ports
  • Adjustable legs
  • Zero-gravity, lounge, TV, flat, anti-snore, and custom-programmable presets
  • Under-bed LED lighting
  • Wireless, back-lit remote with a built-in flashlight

The GhostBed adjustable base doesn’t have an app to control it through your smart device, but the split king model comes with two remotes so you and your partner can control each side separately. It was our pick for the best adjustable bed for couples in our review of the best adjustable beds.

GhostBed offers free curbside delivery. If you want in-home delivery and setup, it costs an extra $279, but this service includes the removal of your old mattress, box spring, and bed frame if requested.

The adjustable Base comes with a lifetime limited warranty, but only the first year is a full warranty. You have the option to extend the full warranty to four years by purchasing an extended warranty for $399.

Compatible mattresses

All GhostBed mattresses are compatible with its adjustable base. This includes its memory foam, latex, and hybrid mattresses ⓘHybrid mattresses combine the features of both innerspring and foam mattresses, with springs surrounded by a thick comfort layer of foam or latex. Purchasing a GhostBed mattress with an adjustable base discounts the base by 35% and extends the full warranty for three more years free of cost.

Customer service and reviews

GhostBed doesn’t have many reviews on third-party websites. At the time this article was published, it had a rating of 1.3 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot with fewer than 100 reviews. GhostBed had a rating of 1.16 out of 5 stars from an average of 113 customer reviews on BBB. Negative reviews mentioned issues receiving their deliveries for their adjustable base.

If you need help choosing a bed frame or mattress or have questions about your order, you can contact GhostBed by:

  • Phone: (954-371-2004) available 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET daily
  • Live chat on the bottom right corner of the Ghostbed website
  • Email: (sleep@ghostbed.com)
  • Contact form on its website

Most Customizable: Purple Premium Plus Smart Base

Purple Premium Plus Smart Base adjustable bed

Pros Able to adjust upper body, neck, foot positions Able to adjust lumbar support Three custom presets on each remote
Cons No trial period In-home delivery and setup only available with purchase of a mattress

Score: 3.68/5

Price: $3,190 (does not include price of mattresses)

Payment options: Credit card, PayPal, Amazon Pay, and Affirm

Trial Period: None

Warranty: 10-year

Dimensions: 80 inches long by 76 inches wide

Weight capacity: 750 pounds for each twin XL base, including the weight of the mattress (Purple twin XL mattresses weigh between 54–131 pounds each)

The Purple Premium Plus Smart Base has a split king version that allows you to adjust the position of your upper body, neck, and feet. You can also fine-tune the amount of lumbar support it provides to reduce tension in your lower back. Each side of the split king base comes with its own remote, which has three custom presets that you and your partner can set independently. Consider the Premium Plus Smart Base if you want an adjustable bed with more customizable positions and custom presets compared to the other models on our list.

In addition to basic head and foot adjustability, the Premium Plus Smart Base comes with the following features:

  • Dual-zone (head and foot) massage function with three levels of intensity and a massage timer
  • Pillow tilt adjustability
  • Lumbar support
  • Anti-snore, zero-gravity, and flat presets
  • Three custom presets
  • Motion-activated under-bed lighting, which can be controlled by remote as well
  • Ability to control the adjustable bed via a mobile app

Purple doesn’t offer a trial period for its adjustable beds. Standard curbside delivery is free. The option for in-home delivery and setup costs an additional $200 and is available only if you purchase a Purple mattress. If you purchase a RestorePlus or RestorePremier mattress, in-home delivery and setup are free. Our Reviews Team confirmed that the in-home delivery team can remove your old mattress if requested.

Compatible mattresses

All Purple mattresses are compatible with its adjustable bases, but not all mattress models come in twin XL or split king sizes.

Customer service and reviews

Purple is rated better on BBB than on Trustpilot. As of this writing, it has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from an average of more than 350 customer reviews on BBB. The company received a rating of 2.7 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot, with 29 reviews.

There were both positive and negative reviews regarding the comfort of Purple’s mattresses and adjustable bases. Positive reviews mentioned good experiences with Purple customer service. Negative reviews cited issues with the return process, for example, having to speak with multiple representatives to start a return.

You can contact Purple customer service by:

  • Phone: (888-848-0248) available 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. MT, Monday through Friday
  • Email: (info@purple.com)
  • Live chat on the bottom right corner of the website, available 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. MT, Monday through Friday
  • Calling or visiting a retail location near you

Most Advanced: Tempur-Pedic Ergo Smart Base

A split king Tempur-Pedic Ergo Smart Base with each half in different head and foot configurations.

You can adjust each half of the split king Tempur-Pedic Ergo Smart Base by remote, app, or smart home device.

Pros Advanced technology features and mobile app Free white-glove delivery California split king option Adjustable legs
Cons High price Poor customer service reviews No trial period

Score: 3.50/5

Price: $3,698 (does not include price of mattresses)

Payment options: American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Visa, and Tempur-Pedic credit cards

Trial Period: None

Warranty: 25-year

Dimensions: 79.5 inches long by 77 inches wide

Weight capacity: 650 pounds for each twin XL base, including the weight of the mattress (Tempur-Pedic twin XL mattresses weigh between 39.3–77 pounds)

Tempur-Pedic’s TEMPUR-Ergo Smart Base comes in a regular split king size or a California split king size for the same price. In addition to all of the features found in the Saatva base, the Ergo Smart Base also includes:

  • Two USB ports on each side
  • Sleeptracker technology and a mobile phone app that provides sleep monitoring and coaching
  • Automatic snore response that elevates your head 12 degrees if it hears you begin to snore
  • Smart home compatibility with connections to Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa so you may use voice commands
  • Adjustable legs that let you choose the height of the base in 3-inch increments, from 4–16 inches
A smartphone showing the Tempur-Pedic adjustable bed app with an Amazon smart home device and instructions to "Just ask Alexa."

You can use the Tempur-Pedic app to control your adjustable base or ask your Amazon or Google smart home device to do it for you.

To use the Tempur-Pedic app, you need to download it from the Apple app store or Google Play store, place the Sleeptracker sensors that come with the bed below your mattress, and follow the instructions provided by the app. The app and sensors let you see how you slept and provide customized sleep coaching tips to help you sleep better over time. And since the app is compatible with Alexa and Google smart devices, you can use voice commands to operate your bed and even ask how you slept last night. It will give you a report and make suggestions for improvements.

Tempur-Pedic provides free white-glove delivery and removal of the packaging and your old mattress. All Tempur-Pedic adjustable beds have a 25-year limited warranty. There is no trial period with any Tempur-Pedic adjustable bed.

Compatible mattresses

All three models of Tempur-Pedic mattresses work with its adjustable bases.

Customer service and reviews

Tempur-Pedic has an A+ rating but a score of 1.04 out of 5 stars with the BBB, with nearly 700 complaints on file. Most of the reviews are not specific to split king adjustable bed frames but are about poor customer service in general. Tempur-Pedic has low scores on Trustpilot as well, with 1.3 out of 5 stars. Common complaints involve difficulties with returns and warranty issues not being settled in a timely fashion.

If you need help choosing a bed frame or mattress, you can contact a Tempur-Pedic sleep expert by clicking the Live Chat button on its Customer Support page or by phone and email.

  • Phone: (888-811-5053) available 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET, Saturday and Sunday
  • Contact form on the Tempur-Pedic website
  • 24/7 chat option indicated by a question mark on the bottom right corner of the Tempur-Pedic website

If you want to see a Tempur-Pedic adjustable base in person, you can use its online store locator to find a retailer near you.

Best for Upper-Body Adjustability: Sleep Number FlexFit 1 Smart Base

Sleep Number Flexfit 2 Smart Base Adjustable Bed

Pros Controlled via mobile app Free white glove delivery King and California king size options Adjustable-height legs
Cons Doesn't come with a remote No trial period Premium delivery and setup services required

Score: 3.58/5

Price: $2,099 (for FlexTop model, does not include price of mattresses)

Payment options: American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Visa, and Sleep Number credit cards

Trial Period: None

Warranty: 15-year

Dimensions: 79.5 inches long by 75.5 inches wide

Weight capacity: 650 pounds per side, including the weight of the mattress (Sleep Number twin XL mattresses weigh between 40–70 pounds.)

The Sleep Number FlexFit 1 Smart Base is an adjustable bed base that pairs with the brand’s unique adjustable-firmness mattresses. Smart bases come in king and California king sizes, with the option for split and FlexTop versions for both sizes. FlexTop mattresses and bases from Sleep Number are only split at the top half of the bed, allowing for separate movement of the head of the bed. Although the FlexFit 1 Smart Base only offers upper-body adjustability, it still comes with popular adjustable bed features like under-bed lighting and custom preset positions.

Compared to the other adjustable bed models from Sleep Number, the FlexFit 1 comes with basic features:

  • Partner Snore preset that raises your partner’s head position to alleviate snoring
  • Under-bed lighting
  • Adjustable-height legs that let you adjust the height of the base from 13.75 to 18.25 inches
  • One custom preset per side of the bed

The FlexFit 2 and FlexFit 3 adjustable beds have additional foot adjustment abilities and zero-gravity presets. The FlexFit 3 Smart Base comes with a foot-warming feature.

Sleep Number adjustable beds don’t come with a remote. To control the adjustable base, you have to pair it with the SleepIQ app. When paired with a Sleep Number smart mattress, the SleepIQ app also tracks your sleep quality through sensors in the mattress. If you prefer a handheld remote to control the adjustable bed and smart mattress, you can purchase one for $49.

Sleep Number requires Premium Delivery and Setup for its adjustable beds. The service costs an additional $249 and includes in-home delivery, old mattress recycling, and packaging removal. Sleep Number will also help you set up your adjustable bed and SleepIQ account as part of the premium service. All Sleep Number adjustable beds have a 15-year limited warranty. There is no trial period for its adjustable beds; they are final sale.

Compatible mattresses

All of Sleep Number’s Classic Series, Performance Series, Innovation Series, memory foam, and Climate360 smart mattresses are compatible with its smart adjustable bases.

Customer service and reviews

Sleep Number is rated well on BBB but not on Trustpilot. It has an A+ grade and a rating of 4.56 out of 5 stars on BBB. It is a BBB-accredited business and has over 3,700 reviews on its profile. On Trustpilot, the brand has an overall rating of 1.4 out of 5 stars with 137 reviews. Positive reviews praised the comfort of the beds, with one reviewer finding the Partner Snore feature handy to stop their partner’s snoring without waking them up. Negative reviews cited issues with the mattresses. Some reviewers bought the adjustable beds without knowing about the final sale policy.

If you have a question about Sleep Number products before you buy, you can contact the company in the following ways:

  • Customer service agents by phone (888-411-2188), available 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. CT, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT on Saturdays, and 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CT Sundays
  • Sleep professional sales agents by phone (877-795-5805), available 7 a.m. to 12 a.m. Mondays and Fridays, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. CT Tuesday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 12 a.m. CT Saturdays, and 9 a.m. to 12 a.m. CT Sundays
  • 24/7 chat line on the bottom right corner of the website

You can try Sleep Number adjustable beds in person at its retail locations.

Comparison of the best split king adjustable beds

BedPrice Without Mattresses*Trial PeriodWarrantyMobile App
Saatva Adjustable Base Plus$2,598None25 yearsNo
Sealy Ease Power Base$1,798None25 yearsNo
Puffy Serenity Adjustable Base$2,099101 nightsLifetimeNo
GhostBed Adjustable Base$3,398NoneLifetimeNo
Purple Premium Plus Smart Base$3,190None10 yearsYes
Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Ergo Smart Base$3,798None25 yearsYes
Sleep Number FlexFit 1 Smart Base†$2,099None15 yearsYes

* Prices as of June 2023, excluding promotions and discounts

† Price of FlexTop king model

Other split king models to consider

Nectar Adjustable Bed Frame

Price: $2,798

The Nectar Adjustable Bed Frame is an adjustable bed base worth considering for its list of features and rare 50-night trial period. We didn’t like that its warranty period is three years, which is shorter than most of the split king adjustable beds we researched.

Nectar Adjustable Bed Frame features:

  • Head and foot adjustability
  • Presets for zero-gravity, anti-snore, TV watching, and custom positions
  • Two-zone massage
  • Four USB ports
  • Adjustable-height legs

For more information, check out our in depth Nectar review.

Casper Adjustable Base Max

Price: $3,390

Casper has three adjustable base models that come in a split king size. Consider the Casper Adjustable Base Max for its extra neck-tilt adjustment feature. When we asked Casper customer service about the benefits of separating the head and upper-body positions, they explained that “slanting the head by 45 degrees relieves compression in the lower back to reduce pain, and the angled head allows for the prevention of neck aches.”

We liked that the Adjustable Base Max had a 30-night trial period and a four-zone massage feature. The Adjustable Base Max is our top adjustable bed for older adults who want a solid feature set.

Casper Adjustable Base Max features:

  • Head, neck, and foot adjustability
  • Presets for zero-gravity, anti-snore, flat, and custom positions on the wireless remote
  • Four USB ports
  • Four-zone massage
  • Under-bed lighting
  • Adjustable-height legs

Who is a split king adjustable bed for?

People may prefer adjustable beds for a number of reasons. Studies have shown that the use of an adjustable bed system can result in a reduction in pain severity for those with mild to moderate lower back pain. [1] Hagino C, Erfanian P. Before-after study to determine the effectiveness of an adjustable wood frame-foam and wool mattress bed-system (The Natura Mattress System) in reducing chronic back pain in adults. Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association. March 1997. Found on the internet at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2485300/ Adjustable beds have also been shown to help reduce snoring and increase the time spent in deep sleep when users sleep in an inclined position. [2] Danoff-Burg S, Rus HM, Weaver MA, Raymann RJEM. Sleeping in an Inclined Position to Reduce Snoring and Improve Sleep: In-home Product Intervention Study. JMIR Formative Research. April 6, 2022. Found on the internet at https://formative.jmir.org/2022/4/e30102 People with limited mobility may also appreciate an adjustable bed for greater ease in getting in and out of bed by elevating the head of the bed or lowering the foot of the bed. And since you can operate each of the two split king mattresses individually, you won’t disturb your partner when changing positions or getting in and out of bed.

Infographic outlining 6 benefits of adjustable beds

Who is a split king adjustable bed not for?

Split king adjustable beds are not for everyone. For example, a split king adjustable base is not recommended for a king-size mattress. If you do use a king-size mattress on a split king base, you have to make sure that each half of the split king base can be joined to operate together when adjusting the position of the bed. If not, you won’t be able to adjust either of the split king bases without damaging the single king-size mattress. Make sure you purchase the appropriate adjustable base for your mattress.

Lastly, split king adjustable beds aren’t ideal for sleepers who like to position themselves in the middle of the bed. That’s because split king mattresses aren’t joined together, so there is a noticeable seam where the two mattresses meet, which can be uncomfortable to sleep on.

What to consider when buying a split king adjustable bed

Budget

Adjustable bed bases can be quite expensive, with costs ranging between $1,798 and $3,798 among the models we chose. If your current mattress is not compatible, you’ll also have to consider the cost of a new mattress in addition to the base. Some companies offer financing options, allowing you a bit of flexibility around price. You may also be able to get a discount for purchasing the split-king adjustable base with the two twin XL mattresses at the same time.

Features

Some adjustable beds are more technologically advanced than others, including features such as a mobile app and smart sensors that monitor your sleep patterns. When choosing an adjustable bed, consider how many of these features you actually need and whether you’re comfortable using the technology. Keep in mind that more tech features tend to raise the cost, so if these aren’t important to you, you’ll save some money by going with more basic models, such as the Sealy Ease Power Base.

For people with limited mobility, one feature deserving special consideration is adjustable-height legs. Adjustable legs on the base allow you to position your bed at the right height for ease of entry and exit, reducing the chance of falls or straining.

Infographic of the common features found in split king adjustable bases

Some features are similar to a regular king adjustable base, but a split king offers custom positioning and comfort settings on either side of the bed.

Weight limit

Adjustable beds have a weight limit, typically between 400 and 850 pounds per twin XL base. Keep in mind that this includes the weight of the mattress, as well as anyone sleeping on it. A twin XL mattress typically weighs between 30 and 105 pounds. Before purchasing an adjustable bed, make sure it supports the total combined weight.

Assembly

Some adjustable bed manufacturers offer white-glove delivery, which means a professional will carry it in and assemble it for you. Without white-glove delivery, it may take multiple people to carry each of the split king bases inside, which may weigh close to 100 lbs each, depending on the brand. Make sure you feel comfortable, or have assistance, moving any heavy boxes and assembling the adjustable base if you order from a brand that doesn’t offer white-glove delivery services.

Warranty and trial period

Most adjustable beds come with a warranty, but they can vary greatly by manufacturer, from as little as three years up to a full lifetime warranty. When shopping for an adjustable bed, read through the warranty to make sure you feel comfortable with the coverage. Consider the return policy, too. Most adjustable beds are final sale, but there are some returnable options, such as the Puffy Adjustable Base, that come with an at-home sleep trial.

Split king vs. king adjustable beds

Comparing king and split king adjustable bed sizes

Split king adjustable beds are two twin XL beds joined together.

Whether you prefer a regular king adjustable bed vs a split king adjustable bed will depend on whether you sleep alone or with a partner. The overall size of the bed is the same, but the split king is split into two twin XL bases and mattresses that can function independently, whereas the regular king base uses one mattress and adjusts as one unit. Those sleeping alone may prefer a regular king, while those with a partner may prefer a split king so they can each adjust their sides of the bed independently.

Infographic displaying the benefits of a split king adjustable base

Split king adjustable bases offer separate sleeping surfaces and remote controls for you and your partner.

How we chose the best split king adjustable beds

Based on our expert consultations and research, we determined the following factors to be important for our readers when shopping for a split king adjustable bed:

  • Comfort
  • Price
  • Trial period
  • Delivery and setup
  • Warranty
  • Brand reputation
  • Special features
  • Number of size options

We had all of our selections medically reviewed by an expert in the field to ensure that each brand and model is appropriate for NCOA readers’ needs.

Why you can trust our split king adjustable bed review

Our Reviews Team recommends products and services we believe provide value in the lives of our readers. We’ve spent more than 550 hours carrying out in-depth research on adjustable beds to give you the most accurate review. To make our selections, we:

  • Surveyed 600 adjustable bed users for first-person insights
  • Interviewed two industry experts
  • Researched 30 different models across the category
  • Read real customer reviews from trusted third party websites, including the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Trustpilot

Visit our adjustable beds review methodology page for more information.

Bottom line

For those who are wondering what is a split king or what is a split king mattress, split king adjustable beds are a great option for adults who share a bed with a sleeping partner. They may provide relief from back pain, reduce snoring, and offer a better night’s sleep overall. In addition, a split king bed has two separate mattresses so that sleepers are not as bothered by the movements of their sleep partners.

If you’re tech-savvy and prefer a split king adjustable bed with advanced features, consider the Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Ergo Smart Base. The Purple Premium Plus Smart Base can also connect to smart devices and offers the most customization in position along with three programmable presets per side. If you want the most basic design with an easy-to-use remote, go with the Sealy Ease Power Base. If you’re looking only for upper-body adjustability, consider the Sleep Number FlexFit 1 Smart Base.

If you want to make sure you like your bed before committing to it, consider the Puffy Adjustable Base, which has a 101-night trial and a lifetime warranty. For an all-around solid choice at a reasonable price, our Reviews Team recommends the Saatva Adjustable Base Plus that comes with free delivery and assembly.

 

Frequently asked questions

Have questions about this review? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org.

Sources

  1. Hagino C, Erfanian P. Before-after study to determine the effectiveness of an adjustable wood frame-foam and wool mattress bed-system (The Natura Mattress System) in reducing chronic back pain in adults. Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association. March 1997. Found on the internet at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2485300/
  2. Danoff-Burg S, Rus HM, Weaver MA, Raymann RJEM. Sleeping in an Inclined Position to Reduce Snoring and Improve Sleep: In-home Product Intervention Study. JMIR Formative Research. April 6, 2022. Found on the internet at https://formative.jmir.org/2022/4/e30102
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