Housing Insight

Difference Between 1 RK and 1 BHK Apartments

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Aakash Jain

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When choosing between a 1 RK and a 1 BHK apartment, it is important to understand the key differences in space, cost, and utility. A 1 RK flat is a compact unit with a single room and kitchen, making it affordable and ideal for individuals looking for short stays. 

In contrast, a 1 BHK offers a separate bedroom, living room, and kitchen, providing more space and privacy. This makes it more suitable for long-term living or small families. Your decision will depend on your budget, lifestyle needs, and plans.

What is a 1RK

Also known as a studio apartment, a 1 RK is a compact living space with a single main room and a separate kitchen. It follows a studio apartment-style layout, where the main room serves as the living area, bedroom, and dining space all in one.

Key Features of 1 RK Apartments:

  • Size

Typically, between 250 sq. ft. to 450 sq. ft., offering a space-efficient option. It is suitable for those who do not need a large living area but require ample usable space.

  • Layout

There is no separate bedroom; everything is in one room, with an attached bathroom and a separate kitchen. This design maximises the use of available space.

  • Occupancy

Ideal for single professionals, students, or couples seeking an affordable home. It provides a cosy environment for those with minimal space requirements.

  • Customisation

Curtains or partitions can be used to create separate areas for sleeping and living. Personal touches can be added to make the space feel more like home.

  • Price

Comparatively more budget-friendly than a 1 BHK, making it a popular choice for those with cost constraints. It offers an economical alternative without sacrificing essential amenities.

What is a 1 BHK

A 1 BHK apartment means a separate bedroom, living/dining area, and kitchen, providing more space, privacy, and utility compared to a 1 RK. It is often preferred by those looking for a long-term home with a more defined living space.

Key Features of 1 BHK Apartments:

  • Size

Typically ranging from 400 sq. ft. to 695 sq. ft., it offers more room to move around than a 1 RK. This extra space enhances overall comfort.

  • Layout

With distinct spaces for the bedroom, hall, and kitchen, it allows for sleeping, cooking, and entertaining separately. Some units may feature an attached or common bathroom. This layout promotes better organisation of daily activities.

  • Occupancy

Perfect for small families, couples, or individuals desiring more privacy. The separate spaces help maintain personal boundaries within the home.

  • Customisation

Offers greater flexibility for decorating and minor renovations due to the divided spaces. It allows residents to personalise the space according to their preferences.

  • Price

More expensive than a 1 RK, but the extra investment provides improved living comfort and space. The added space and privacy can make it a worthwhile investment in the long term.

1 RK vs 1 BHK - Key Differences

Here are the main distinguishing points between 1 BHKs and 1 RKs:

Feature

1 BHK

1 RK

Number of rooms

A living room, a bedroom, and a kitchen

1 room and 1 kitchen

Space

More spacious

Generally compact

Cost

Relatively higher cost

More affordable

Furniture placement

More options for furniture layout

Limited space for furniture arrangement

Living room

Separate from the bedroom

Combined with the bedroom

Kitchen

Separate kitchen space

Usually combined with living room/bedroom

Pros and Cons of 1 RK

A 1 RK apartment is a great choice for those prioritising affordability and minimalism. However, it may not suit individuals who need more space and privacy. Here are some pros and cons of a 1 RK: 

Aspect

Pros

Cons

Affordability

Lower rent and maintenance costs make it budget-friendly

Lower resale value compared to a 1 BHK

Low Maintenance

Easier to clean and manage due to its compact size

Limited space can feel cramped for long-term living

Ideal for Singles

Best suited for students, working professionals, and couples

Lack of privacy as the sleeping, dining, and living areas are combined

Better Rental Value

Lower rental cost makes it an affordable option in metro cities

Limited customisation for furniture and interior design

Efficient Space Usage

A compact layout ensures optimal space utilisation

No separate rooms for different functions

Pros and Cons of 1 BHK

When planning to buy a 1 BHK flat, consider the following pros and cons to make an informed decision for your dream home.

Aspect

Pros

Cons

Space and Comfort

Separate bedrooms, living room, and kitchen offer more space

Requires more maintenance and cleaning due to the larger area

Privacy

Provides better privacy with distinct rooms

May not be suitable for budget-conscious singles or students

Customisation

Offers flexibility in interior design and furniture layout

Requires a higher initial investment

Resale and Rental Value

Higher resale value and rental demand compared to a 1 RK

More expensive in prime city locations

Suitability

Ideal for long-term stays and for couples and small families

Higher rent, maintenance, and utility bills than a 1 RK

Factors to Consider When Choosing Between RK and BHK

When choosing between a 1 RK and a 1 BHK apartment, consider these key factors:

  • Budget

Select an option that aligns with your financial capacity and affordability. Review all hidden costs, such as maintenance and utilities, to get a clear picture. Account for future financial flexibility when making a decision.

  • Space Needs

Evaluate based on lifestyle, family size, and future needs. A 1 BHK may provide extra space for personal belongings or guests, while a 1 RK offers a more compact living experience. Consider how the space will evolve as your needs change over time.

  • Location & Amenities

Ensure the apartment is close to workplaces, schools, and essential services. Research the neighbourhood’s safety, accessibility, and potential for growth. Proximity to public transport or major roads can make a significant difference in daily convenience.

  • Long-term Goals

Consider investment potential, resale value, and possible lifestyle changes. A 1 BHK could have better long-term value due to its larger size and wider appeal. Think about how the apartment will suit you in the years to come, particularly with future family or work adjustments.

Conclusion

Choosing between a 1 RK and 1 BHK apartment depends on your budget, space requirements, and lifestyle. A 1 RK is ideal for singles, students, or budget-conscious individuals seeking a compact and affordable living space. Conversely, a 1 BHK provides more privacy, comfort, and flexibility, making it suitable for couples or small families planning for long-term living.

Evaluate your financial situation, space needs, and future plans carefully to select the best option that suits your lifestyle. What could come in handy when making this decision is a financing solution like a home loan. This way, you need not worry about making upfront payments, and simply repay your loan in EMIs.

FAQs on RK vs BHK

1 RK and 1 BHK Apartments
What is the full form of RK?

RK stands for Room and Kitchen. A 1 RK apartment includes a single room for living and sleeping, a separate kitchen, and a bathroom.

BHK stands for bedroom, hall, and kitchen. A 1 BHK apartment consists of one bedroom, a living/dining area, a kitchen, and a bathroom.

A 1 RK apartment typically ranges between 250 sq. ft. to 450 sq. ft., depending on the location and layout.

A 1 BHK apartment usually ranges between 400 sq. ft. to 695 sq. ft., depending on the design and location.

The main difference between 1 BHK and 1 RK is the number of rooms and space:

  • 1 BHK (Bedroom, Hall, Kitchen) has a separate bedroom, living/dining area, and kitchen, providing more space and privacy.

  • 1 RK (Room, Kitchen) has a single room that combines the living and sleeping areas with a separate kitchen, making it more compact and affordable.

A 1 RK apartment is a compact living space with one room and a kitchen. The single room serves as the living area, bedroom, and dining space. This term is commonly used in the Indian real estate market.

RK stands for Room and Kitchen. Unlike a BHK (Bedroom, Hall, Kitchen) unit, an RK apartment has only one room that serves as the living, sleeping, and dining area, along with a separate kitchen.

Yes, a 1 RK apartment includes a bathroom. It typically has one main room (which serves as the living, bedroom, and dining area), a separate kitchen, and an attached bathroom.

The full form of RK in real estate is Room and Kitchen. It refers to a small apartment with a single room that serves as the living and sleeping area, along with a separate kitchen and a bathroom.

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Hi! I’m Aakash Jain
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Aakash is a seasoned marketing and finance professional with over five years of experience. With a unique blend of financial expertise and creative flair, he excels in crafting succinct, user-friendly content that empowers readers to make well-informed choices. Specialising in articles, blogs, and website pages for loan products, Aakash is dedicated to simplifying complex concepts and delivering valuable insights that resonate with diverse audiences.

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