Written by Riley Otis, Editorial Intern
Here at Sleepopolis, we know that sleep can sometimes be the opposite of restful. From disruptive snoring to painful body aches, it can be hard to get comfortable and stay asleep all night long. For some, an adjustable base can help you conquer sleep struggles. Whether it’s elevating your upper body to reduce snoring or raising your legs to relieve spinal pressure, an adjustable base may be useful.
In this guide, we’re focusing specifically on models made in the split king size, which is popular among couples. A split mattress upon an adjustable base can benefit couples who have different sleep needs. We’ll introduce our favorite adjustable bases for split kings and go over who may benefit the most from them and who may want to steer clear. We’ll also discuss what real customers have to say about these beds. Finally, we’ll share a guide to adjustable bases and how to pick the best one for you.
Our Top Pick For Adjustable Bases For Split Kings
We chose the Nectar Adjustable Bed Frame as our top pick because of its unique settings, reasonable price, and lengthy at-home trial period.
Best Adjustable Bed For Split Kings
- Nectar Adjustable Bed Frame – Best Overall
- Saatva Adjustable Base – Best Value
- DreamCloud Adjustable Bed Frame – Best for Back Sleepers
- Nolah Adjustable Base With Massage – Best Massaging
- Helix Adjustable Base – Easy Assembly
- Emma Powerbase Pro Adjustable Bed – Best Support
- Bear Mattress Adjustable Flex Bed – Best Design
- Brooklyn Bedding Ascension Luxe Adjustable Power Base – Most Affordable
Nectar Adjustable Bed Frame – Best Overall
Nectar Adjustable Base
If you like to sit up in bed or are in search of various features, like an anti-snore position or massaging, then the Nectar Adjustable Bed could be for you.
Sleepopolis Score
4.70 / 5
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Expert Opinion
The Nectar Adjustable Frame is a fantastic adjustable base for anyone wanting premium features without breaking the bank, and these factors alone make it our favorite on this roundup. It comes with three preset settings: zero gravity, anti-snore, and TV recline, and you can also program it to remember your favorite positions. In addition to adjusting the head and feet, the Nectar Adjustable base is a massaging bed frame with two distinct zones and three levels of intensity.
What our tester says: “The Nectar Adjustable Base has some unique settings that come with it, which aren’t found in most frames. Sleepers can enjoy a little bedtime massage, and adjust the intensity of the vibrations to their liking using the ‘mode’ button.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor
Who the Nectar Adjustable Frame is Best for
- Couples: The split king option is great for couples, especially if they have different sleeping preferences.
- People who want to relax in bed: Whether you enjoy using your mattress to watch TV or read, you’ll likely appreciate the preset “TV recline” button.
- Those unsure if they want an adjustable base: The Nectar Adjustable Bed Frame comes with a 50-night home trial period, allowing you to try it out before fully committing.
Who Should Avoid the Nectar Adjustable Frame
- Light sleepers: The massage function — while soothing — is pretty noisy and rumbly. So if you’re someone who has a hard time falling asleep or relaxing with noise, this might not be the best option for you.
Think this is the adjustable base for you? Get our best deal here. You can also learn more in our full Nectar Adjustable Frame review.
Saatva Adjustable Base – Best Value
Saatva Adjustable Base
The Saatva Adjustable base has a zero-clearance design that allows it to be used within other frames. Along with head and foot elevation, it has adjustable legs that can be adjusted from 13 to 18 inches.
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For anyone wanting quality materials as well as the bang-for-your-buck price of the best value adjustable bases, we recommend the Saatva, which costs around $1,000 for a queen after discounts. It comes with a wireless remote so you can adjust the angle of both the head and foot of your bed. And it’s great for anyone who wants to customize the height of their mattress, as the base’s legs are adjustable (from 13 to 18 inches) and increase in half-inch increments. This base’s slim design lets it fit into other frames and keeps the quiet motor out of sight.
What our tester says: “Anyone looking for a slim profile or who wants to combine their adjustable base with a platform base will love the zero-clearance, ultra-slim design of the Saatva Adjustable Base.” – Amelia Jerden, senior staff writer
Who the Saatva Adjustable Base is Best for
- People seeking a simple base: This base has all the basic features of an adjustable bed frame. If you want to keep it simple, this could be a good option.
- People wishing to re-use their current bed frame: You can remove the legs from this base and place it in a platform base, so your current bed frame won’t go to waste.
- People who want a tall frame: The base can be 18 inches tall at its maximum height, thanks to the adjustable legs.
Who Should Avoid the Saatva Adjustable Base
- People wanting additional features: If you want features like presets or head-to-toe massaging, you won’t find them here. Instead, we recommend the Adjustable Base Plus model, which is an outstanding luxury option.
Interested in the Saatva Adjustable base? Get our best deal here. You can also learn more about it in our full Saatva Adjustable Base review.
DreamCloud Adjustable Bed Frame – Best for Back Sleepers
DreamCloud Adjustable Base
If you like to sit up in bed, raise your legs, or need an anti-snore feature, the DreamCloud adjustable bed could be a great choice.
Sleepopolis Score
4.60 / 5
Read Full Review
Expert Opinion
With adjustable head and foot elevation, the DreamCloud Adjustable Bed Frame lets you program your favorite positions into the wireless remote’s memory. The remote also comes with zero gravity, anti-snore, and lounge presets for quick and easy adjusting. The zero gravity button puts you in a neutral 120-degree position that simulates weightlessness. This is an excellent option for back sleepers, who should get the support they need at this angle to keep their spine neutrally aligned.
In addition, the base comes with a two-zone massage equipped with three modes and three intensities. For easy charging, two USB ports are placed on either side of the base. It’s also possible to adjust the height of this base. It comes with the choice of either eight-inch or three-inch legs and also comes with two-inch extenders.
What our tester says: “I thought the massage felt similar to the vibrations that lull you to sleep during a car ride (and I love that). So, I kept both the head and the foot vibrating for 20 minutes!” – Sarah Riccio, former senior writer and bedding expert
Who the DreamCloud Adjustable Bed Frame is Best for
- People unsure about an adjustable base: DreamCloud has a 50-night home trial and free returns for their adjustable base. You can try out the base and return it at no cost if you don’t love it.
- People with body aches: This base comes with premium massage features, which can help with muscle stiffness and aches that some sleepers might experience.
- Snorers: The wireless remote includes an anti-snore preset that puts you in the optimal position to reduce snoring. If you or your partner snores, this button can make adjusting quick and easy. As always, be sure to check in with your doctor to see if this is right for you.
Who Should Avoid the DreamCloud Adjustable Bed Frame
- People wanting a simple base: Not every sleeper wants a massaging bed or needs presets. If you want a bed that just goes up and down, you may find that simplicity elsewhere.
Interested in the DreamCloud Adjustable Bed Frame? Check out our full review here.
Nolah Adjustable Base With Massage– Best Massaging
Nolah Adjustable Base With Massage
The Nolah Adjustable Base with Massage has four noise-free engines that offer a vibrating full-body massage with three intensity levels. Reinforced steel adds stability to this base.
Sleepopolis Score
4.90 / 5
Expert Opinion
The Nolah Adjustable Base With Massage is a high-tech base with all the bells and whistles. The base comes with a vibrating full-body massage with three intensity levels powered by four noise-free engines. The base be controlled with a wireless remote and mobile app. Additional convenient features include the built-in USB ports, the under-bed night light, and reinforced steel for stability.
What reviews say: Customers are finding this base’s assembly and operation to be super easy to understand. From the quick presets to the convenient USB features, the reviews claim that this base makes life easy.
Who the Nolah Adjustable Base With Massage is Best for
- People in pain: The vibrating massage can be great for relieving pain from head to toe. The remote comes with a zero-gravity preset, which simulates weightlessness and can help relieve pressure.
- People wanting premium features: This base includes some features that go beyond the basics, such as the full-body massage and under-bed lighting.
- Heavier sleepers: The reinforced steel undercarriage makes this a super sturdy and durable bed frame that can support up to 750 pounds, including the mattress and sleepers.
Who Should Avoid the Nolah Adjustable Base With Massage
- People seeking simplicity: This bed comes with a lot of bells and whistles, which may not be for everyone. If you want a base that just elevates the head and feet, this may not be for you.
Think the Nolah Adjustable Base With Massage is the best option for you? Get our best deal here.
Helix Adjustable Base – Easy Assembly
Helix Adjustable Base
The Helix Adjustable Base is a budget-friendly option that offers a variety of features, from massages to a zero gravity preset.
Read Full ReviewExpert Opinion
The Helix Adjustable Base comes with a wireless remote to customize both your head and foot elevation to find the perfect angle for you. It allows you to program presets into the remote, so you can return back to your favorite positions quickly with just the touch of a button. You can set up to three memory presets if there are multiple angles you enjoy. The remote is already programmed with flat and zero gravity buttons. This base also has a massage function with three intensity levels. It also comes with two USB ports, which are perfect for easy access to your chargers.Lastly, this adjustable base is super easy to set up; it took two of our testers only 11 minutes to put it together with no tools required.
What our tester says: “Want to feel weightless in bed? Helix Sleep says you can with the zero gravity feature, which is influenced by research from NASA. Included as one of your remote presets, the zero gravity feature angles your body in a 120 degree position.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor
Who the Helix Adjustable Base is Best for
- People who snore: This base lets you elevate your head and shoulders, which can reduce snoring by giving you an angle that promotes unrestricted airflow.
- People with spinal pressure: This base has a zero gravity setting, which should give you a weightless feel that can take pressure off your spine and other sensitive areas.
- People with stiffness: This base comes with three massage intensities, which can be great for those with muscle stiffness.
Who Should Avoid the Helix Adjustable Base
- People who want a headboard: This base is not compatible with headboard attachments, which could be a dealbreaker for those wanting a headboard for comfort or aesthetic purposes.
Sold on the Helix Adjustable base? Click here for our best deal. You can also learn more about it in our full Helix Adjustable Base review.
Emma Powerbase Pro Adjustable Bed – Best Support
Emma Powerbase Pro Adjustable Base
This adjustable frame from Emma has a sturdy steel construction and several presets for the head and feet.
Expert Opinion
Emma started out with creating highly supportive mattresses, and now they’ve created a highly supportive split-king base in their Powerbase Pro Adjustable Bed. It has a sturdy steel frame with presets for the head and feet. This allows for many different activities in bed, from watching TV to reading and enjoying a zero-gravity recline. The base also comes with a variety of stackable leg options and added features such as voice command and dual USB charging stations.
Note: Because this product isn’t yet available as a traditional split king, we recommend purchasing two twin XL mattresses and two twin XL adjustable frames, then pushing them together.
What reviews say: On the Emma website, customers often call out the base’s various features, especially its presets that allow you to set up a specific angle for sleeping, reading, watching TV, etc.
Who the Emma Powerbase Pro Adjustable Bed is Best for
- Back sleepers: The Powerbase Pro is compatible with the original Emma mattress and the Emma Hybrid Comfort, both of which we recommend to back sleepers, thanks to their blend of comfort and support.
- Stomach sleepers: We also recommend these mattresses to anyone who sleeps in the prone position. The beds are supportive enough to keep you from sinking too far into the layers, which can throw the spine out of alignment.
- Heavy people: Folks over 250 pounds usually get the support they need on Emma mattresses (especially the more supportive Hybrid Comfort), and will get even more support with the added adjustable bed frame.
Who Should Avoid the Emma Powerbase Pro Adjustable Bed
- Budget shoppers: As comfortable and supportive as the Emma Powerbase Pro Adjustable Bed is, it’s definitely one of the pricier options out there. Two twin XLs — the best way to create the split king dimensions — each run you $1,449 before discounts.
To get our best deal on the Emma Pro Adjustable Power Base, click here.
Bear Mattress Adjustable Flex Bed – Best Design
Bear Mattress Adjustable Flex Bed
This sturdy bed frame has several presets and is made by a renowned brand that caters to athletes.
Expert Opinion
Some adjustable beds are only compatible with mattresses created by the same brand, but not the Bear Mattress Adjustable Flex Bed. It can work with any mattress from any brand, as long as it’s of a matching split-king size. This product also has fully adjustable legs to accommodate a variety of heights, in addition to a zero gravity preset and two customizable presets. Other design touches include a remote flashlight and motors designed to stay quiet while the mattress is adjusting.
What reviews say: “The Adjustable Flex Bed is still a very new product, so there aren’t a ton of customer reviews for it on the Bear website. However, the ones that do exist (about 20 so far) praise its sturdiness, durability, and price.”
Who the Bear Mattress Adjustable Flex Bed is Best for
- Athletes: The Bear brand caters to athletes, so its adjustable frame should be sturdy enough to support the body after exercising.
- Shoppers looking for a deal: While the Adjustable Flex Bed’s market price for a split king is currently $2,250, it can usually be found for under $1,600 with discounts.
- Back sleepers: You don’t have to pair the Adjustable Flex Bed with the original Bear mattress, but if you do, it’s a firm and supportive foam bed that’s a great match for back sleepers.
Who Should Avoid the Bear Mattress Adjustable Flex Bed
- Those wanting a massage: Unlike several other models on this list, the Bear Mattress Adjustable Flex Bed doesn’t have a massage function. This may not be important to everyone out there, but it’s something to note if you have a sore back or simply want this luxurious feature.
Interested in this base? Get our best deal here.
Brooklyn Bedding Ascension Luxe Adjustable Power Base – Most Affordable
Brooklyn Bedding Ascension Luxe Adjustable Power Base
The Brooklyn Bedding Ascension Luxe Power Base comes with head-to-foot tilt adjustments, plus zero gravity and anti-aging posture presets. There are two USB ports and a built-in power-down battery box that is a self-sufficient and energy-efficient source of power.
Sleepopolis Score
4.80 / 5
Read Full Review
Expert Opinion
The Brooklyn Bedding Ascension Luxe Power Base comes with head-to-foot tilt adjustments and zero gravity and anti-aging posture presets. The self-sufficient and energy-efficient power source is built into the frame via a power-down battery box. This base also includes two USB ports, a wireless remote with flashlight, and can support up to 850 pounds. The materials used in this base are high quality, yet it’s an affordable base — it’s less than $800 for a queen size at full retail.
What our tester says: “This base boasts some neat features and comes at a budget-friendly price. In addition to the manual controls, the remote comes with several presets. You can choose between a lounge, TV, zero gravity, and anti-snore positioning.” – Amelia Jerden, senior staff writer
Who the Brooklyn Bedding Ascension Luxe Adjustable Power Base is Best for
- Heavier sleepers: This adjustable base can support up to 850 pounds, including the mattress.
- People wanting a weightless feeling: This base comes with a zero-gravity preset, which automatically puts you in the optomized position to feel weightless.
- People worried about aging muscles: The wireless repote also has an anti-aging posture preset, which is unique to this base.
Who Should Avoid the Brooklyn Bedding Ascension Luxe Adjustable Power Base
- People with aesthetic preferences: This adjustable base is only sold in the color black, which may not fit your aesthetic preferences. However, it can fit into an additional slatless frame if needed.
Get our best deal on the Brooklyn Bedding Ascension Luxe Adjustable Power Base here. And you can learn more about it in our full Brooklyn Bedding Ascension Luxe Adjustable Power Base review.
What is a Split King Adjustable Bed?
A split king adjustable bed is simply a king bed that has been split right down the middle to create independent sides. Each side has the same dimensions as a Twin XL (38 inches by 80 inches) but create a king sized bed when pushed together. A split king is unique because it allows two people to customize their side of the bed. To learn more about split kings, check out our guide to them or head on over to our best split king mattress round up to see some of our top picks.
What to Look for In An Adjustable Bed for Split Kings
When shopping for an adjustable bed, you may be overwhelmed by the wide variety of options available. Some adjustable bases are simple, while others come with additional premium features or high technology. It’s important to consider why you’re buying an adjustable bed and what you hope to get out of it. For example, you may be buying an adjustable bed to help with muscle pain, so you may want to narrow your search to bases with massage features to help ease some of the pain. If reducing snoring is your main concern, you may want to look for a base that comes with anti-snoring presets, which will automatically put you in a position to help decrease snoring.
Let’s now go over some of the key factors to consider when shopping for an adjustable base for split kings.
Mattress Compatibility
Foam mattresses are usually the best mattresses for adjustable bases due to their flexible nature that can conform to the changing angles of the base. Many hybrid mattresses are also compatible. It may be more difficult to use an innerspring mattress on an adjustable base because the springs can prevent them from bending.
Weight Limit
Different sleepers have different support needs, so you’ll want to consider the materials the base is made of. Some sleepers may need a bit of extra support depending on their body type and sleeping style, so they’ll want to seek out durable materials. Before purchasing, check how much weight the base can support to ensure it can support both you and your mattress.
Assembly
Some bases may be complicated to set up and you may need help with assembly. However, many companies try to make their bases easy to assemble, and many require no tools to set up. Some people, like those with disabilities or extreme pain, are physically unable to set up bases on their own. In this case, check the company policy, because some brands will send movers to set up the base for you.
Features
Adjustable bases come in a variety of styles, and some come with high-tech features. Think about what kind of adjustable bed you want and the features you need. Are you looking for a bed with premium features such as massaging motors? Or do you want one that just elevates the head and feet? You may want one with easy presets, like zero-gravity or anti-snore. Once you know what you want in a base, it will make your search easier.
What Is Zero Gravity?
You may have noticed many adjustable beds come with a zero gravity features. Basically, it’s a position that puts your head and legs at very specific angles to simulate a feeling of weightlessness, hence the name “zero gravity.”
This position was invented by NASA to ease stress on astronaut’s bodies, and it’s now a common preset for adjustable beds. The raised legs and tilted head is meant to support the heart, spine and nervous system to make it easy wind down and sleep.
Size and Appearance
You’ll want to choose an adjustable base that is able to fit in your bedroom. Some bases can be heavy and bulky, so you may want to look into one with a slim design that won’t be difficult to move if you tend to move a lot or frequently rearrange your furniture.
Many adjustable bases are able to fit inside an existing bed frame. If you want to use the adjustable bed on an existing frame, be sure to check if the base is able to do that because some can only stand alone. If you plan to use the base as it comes, consider the aesthetics of the adjustable base. Some are sold in styles that look neutral and can go with any decor, while others may come in bolder colors or eye-catching designs.
Price
Adjustable bases can range in price depending on the brand, features, and warranty. The prices in this roundup range from $1,398 to $2,798 for a split king size at full retail. The average price of all these adjustable bases is about $1,908 for a split king size.
Most brands have frequent sales and discounts offered on their adjustable bases, which you can take advantage of. Check out our guide on the best time to buy for more information on getting the best deal possible.
Trial & Warranty
Most companies offer a warranty on their adjustable bases, so it can be replaced if it’s faulty or breaks naturally. The length of the warranty can also be a good indication of quality, as a longer warranty means the company believes its product will hold up for a long time.
Many bases do not come with a sleep-trial period and are final sale with no returns or exchanges offered, so be sure to read the fine print when making your purchase. However, some companies will also offer a trial period on adjustable bases. You pay for the base and sleep on it for a period of time, but you can exchange it or return it for a full refund if you don’t love it.
Are Warranties and Trials Important?
When it comes to adjustable bases, you’ll want to make sure yours has a lengthy warranty. You’ll likely keep your base for many years, so you’ll want to be covered just in case something goes wrong.
It’s common to have a lengthy sleep trial for mattresses, but it’s less common to have sleep trials for adjustable bases, so don’t worry if you come across one that doesn’t allow returns.
Split King vs King Adjustable Beds
In this guide, we focused specifically on adjustable bases that are sold in the split king size and pairs great with split king mattresses. A split king and a king adjustable bed are very similar, but there are some key differences that set them apart. The main difference is whether each side of the bed operates independently or moves as one unit.
Common Problems With a Split King Adjustable Bed
A split king is a unique size, so it may come with some unique issues that you’ll want to be aware of before purchasing.
Gap and Seam
Think of a split king bed as just two twin XL beds pushed together. The purpose of this type of bed is to have each side operate independently. The structure and feel of the mattresses used can also be completely different, so each person can have a bed that fits their preferences.
Therefore, there will be a slight space between the two mattresses. Even if you push the mattresses super close together, you may be bothered by the “seam” running down the middle. However, you can purchase a “gap filler” that goes under your sheets and may help hide the separation.
Compatible Sheets and Bed Frames
A split king mattress is a common size, but many companies still don’t sell products that work with a split king. If you have your heart set on a certain brand of model of mattress, you may be disappointed if it is not sold in the split king size. It may also be more difficult to find bedding accessories such as sheets and bed frames that are sold in the split king size.
Noise
If you sleep with a partner, you may be all too familiar with being disturbed at night by their movement. Some people complain that adjustable beds are noisy while they adjust. If your partner adjusts their side of the bed in the middle of the night, you may be woken up by the sound of it moving. Some massaging bases market themselves as “whisper quiet” but still emit a humming noise while in use, which may disturb some sleepers.
Noise Machines
If you need complete silence to sleep, then a massaging base that emits a slight sound may not be best for you. If you already sleep with white noise or enjoy some background sound, then the slight noise from the massage engines may not bother you.
Weight
Adjustable beds in general are heavy. They need to be made from sturdy and durable material in order to properly support their sleepers. If they have massaging engines and power boxes, they’ll be even heavier. With a split king, you’ll be assembling and moving not one heavy bed, but two.
Cost
Split king adjustable beds are typically more expensive than king adjustable beds. This may be frustrating to some shoppers who want a split king but don’t want to pay the extra cost.
FAQs
Is split king the same as two twin XLs?
Yes. Dimensions-wise, each side of a split king bed equals one twin XL.
What kind of mattress do I need for a split king adjustable bed?
You’ll need a split king mattress, or twin XL mattresses. A split king base is no use if the mattress isn’t also split.
Do people like split king adjustable beds?
Many do, particularly couples who have different sleeping needs. For example, one person may go to sleep earlier while the other likes to sit up in bed and read. One partner may need to sleep with their head elevated to prevent snoring while the other wants their legs elevated above their head to promote circulation.
How do you keep a split king adjustable bed together?
There are plenty of products on the market designed to help keep your split king adjustable bed together. A popular option is the use of velcro straps. A fitted bed frame can also help keep the bases together and in one place.
Riley Otis
Editorial Intern
About Author
Riley is an editorial intern at Sleepopolis. She’s a firm believer that there’s nothing better than a good night’s sleep. Riley is a student at Elon University and currently working towards a degree in journalism and creative writing. In her free time, she loves to paint, cook, and spend time with family (especially her pets).
Combination Sleeper
