- We’ve spent more than 2,000 hours researching and testing sleep products and more than 150 hours testing pillows specifically. We’ve also consulted more than 20 sleep experts to make our recommendations.
- Our testers evaluated more than 130 mattresses, tested more than 50 pillows, and recorded our findings on a 20-question standardized testing form to identify standout features and services, document any issues with each product, and describe our personal experience with each product.
- We pay close attention to specific considerations that were identified by respondents in our two sleep surveys, one of 600 general customers and another of 600 higher-weight sleepers (250 pounds or more). The considerations we identified include price, features, and sleeping position.
- Learn more about how we test the best pillows for neck pain.
Key takeaways
- The Luxome LAYR is our pick for the best pillow for neck pain overall because its customizable filling makes it suitable for sleepers of all styles and weights.
- Based on our research, people with neck pain need a medium-firm pillow with a medium-high loft (thickness) to ensure the neck and spine are supported in a neutral position.
- Pillows for people with neck pain can cost from $49–$329 or more, depending on size, construction, and materials.
Waking up with neck pain is no way to start your morning. Research shows that 20–70 percent of people will experience neck pain that interferes with their daily activities at some point in their life. Neck pain usually starts at the neck but can radiate down one or both arms or upward in the head. Because neck pain is so uncomfortable, it can prevent you from getting a good night’s rest.
If neck pain regularly interferes with your sleep, it can lead to sleep deficiency. Sleep deficiency is when you don’t get the recommended amount of sleep. Poor sleep conditions like an uncomfortable or unsupportive pillow can actually create neck pain or make existing neck pain worse.
“Finding the right pillow can be vital to getting a good night’s sleep,” says Alex Tauberg, a Pittsburgh-based chiropractor and strength and conditioning specialist. “This is especially true if you are someone with neck pain, whether it’s from arthritis or some other etiology (cause). Preference and comfort level are the two biggest factors for buying a pillow, but the variance in the firmness of the pillow is mostly a personal choice. As long as the pillow provides support for your head that keeps it in line with your neck, then firmness does not make or break a pillow.”
While an unsupportive pillow may trigger neck pain, it may also be the symptom of something more serious, like arthritis, disc degeneration, muscle inflammation, or trauma. Before you buy a new pillow, be sure to speak to your primary physician.
However, if you’re ready to find a better pillow, our Handbook Team evaluated the pillow market and tested a number of options to find the best pillows for neck pain. Keep reading to see our top picks.
5 best pillows for neck pain of 2024
- Luxome LAYR: Best overall pillow for neck pain
- Brooklinen Marlow Pillow: Best pillow for back sleepers with neck pain
- TEMPUR-Neck Pillow: Best firm pillow for neck pain
- TEMPUR-Cloud Adjustable Pillow: Best adjustable pillow for neck pain
- Cozy Earth Silk Pillow: Best pillow for stomach sleepers with neck pain
Luxome LAYR: Best overall pillow for neck pain
Why Luxome LAYR is our pick for best overall
We chose the Luxome LAYR as the best pillow for neck pain overall because it’s constructed from high-quality materials, suits different sleeping styles, and offers customizable firmness levels. Sleepers can choose from different combinations of materials to set their preferred firmness level and loft.
Who may want to use the Luxome LAYR: Sleepers with neck pain who change positions throughout the night and have difficulty choosing a firmness level should appreciate how customizable it is.
Who may want to avoid the Luxome LAYR: People on a budget may want something less expensive.
Luxome LAYR tester insights
This pillow comes with three different inserts that allow you to customize it to your preference: One insert contains 100 percent memory foam of two different thickness levels; the second has down alternative, and the third contains down alternative and shredded memory foam.
While testing the inserts, our testers say the pillow feels plush yet supportive with the down alternative. They also note that the down alternative and memory foam together feel more responsive and firm, which is good for people who like greater support from their pillow.
On a scale of one to five, with one being the softest and five being the firmest, our testers rate the pillow’s firmness between two and four, depending on how the different layers are stacked. The website includes illustrations showing how to arrange the layers, so you can choose your firmness level more easily.
Because it’s so customizable, the Luxome LAYR should work for all sleep styles and weight categories.
From one of our Luxome LAYR testers:
“I love the customization offered with this pillow. This pillow allows anyone with it to get a custom sleeping experience to support their needs. There are so many combinations and different things you can do to the pillow to change the loft, firmness, and overall feel. If people are indecisive when it comes to their sleep position this is the pillow for them.”
Brooklinen Marlow Pillow: Best pillow for back sleepers with neck pain
Why the Brooklinen Marlow Pillow is our pick for best for back sleepers
We chose the Brooklinen Marlow Pillow as the best pillow for back sleepers with neck pain because it offers a medium-firm feel that our testers say provides great neck support. Typically, medium firmness works best for back sleepers and helps maintain a neutral spine more effectively.
Who may want to use the Brooklinen Marlow Pillow: The Brooklinen Marlow is ideal for back sleepers with neck pain because it offers a medium loft and firmness, which helps keep the neck and spine neutral in the back-sleeping position.
Who may want to avoid the Brooklinen Marlow Pillow: People who sleep on their stomachs and prefer a fluffy, down-like feel to their pillows will want to search for alternatives.
Brooklinen Marlow Pillow tester insights
This pillow comes with an adjustable zipper on each side (when zipped, it’s designed to be firmer, and when unzipped, it’s softer). But while our testers say the pillow is slightly firmer when it’s zipped compared to when it’s unzipped, they think the pillow has an overall medium feel in all zipper configurations. This is great for back sleepers because it provides just the right amount of contouring while offering the neck enough support. We also found the customizable loft (the thickness of the pillow) maintained a medium feel, zipped or unzipped, and provided comfort while lying on our back. While this pillow should also work great for side sleepers, full-time stomach sleepers may feel it’s too lofty.
From one of our Brooklinen Marlow Pillow testers:
“I like the plush feel but still found it supportive. Its medium loft makes it great for back sleeping.”
TEMPUR-Neck Pillow: Best firm pillow for neck pain
Why the TEMPUR-Neck Pillow is our pick for best firm
Tempur-Pedic is well known for its memory foam mattresses, and the TEMPUR-Neck Pillow utilizes that same memory foam technology to help support your neck while sleeping. The pillow is made from the brand’s proprietary TEMPUR-Material technology memory foam, which offers sleepers a firm sleep experience. The pillow has a sloped design that provides extra support to the head and neck in back and side sleeping positions.
Who may want to use the TEMPUR-Neck Pillow? Back and side sleepers who like firm memory foam should be happy with the support it provides.
Who may want to avoid the TEMPUR-Neck Pillow: Because of its sloped design, stomach sleepers may feel their head uncomfortably lifted and should look for other options.
TEMPUR-Neck Tester Insights
While our testers say the TEMPUR-Neck Pillow is a firm pillow, they still feel a decent amount of sinkage and contouring. When our testers rest on their side, they feel the pillow supports them well due to its high loft, which keeps their neck and spine in line. They also feel comfortable on their back, saying the sloped design helps keep their head at an even level while supporting their neck.
We recommend following the measurement guide on the Tempur-Pedic website to help you find the best pillow. It helps you choose a pillow based on your shoulder width for the best fit.
Our testers do not feel comfortable in the stomach position and say the pillow makes their neck crane upward. Typically, a softer pillow with a low loft is better for stomach sleepers to keep the neck and spine aligned.
From one of our TEMPUR-Neck testers:
“This pillow offers top-notch support, and the ergonomic shape helps provide contour. But I definitely wouldn’t use this pillow for stomach sleeping.”
TEMPUR-Cloud Adjustable Pillow: Best adjustable pillow for neck pain
Why The TEMPUR-Cloud Adjustable Pillow is our pick for best adjustable pillow
We choose the TEMPUR-Cloud Adjustable Pillow as the best adjustable pillow because it contains three types of shredded memory foam that can be easily removed to adjust the loft. Sleepers can choose how much fill they want to remove and adapt the pillow to their preference. Because the memory foam is shredded, it also provides a more malleable feel so sleepers can “mold” the pillow in a way that feels most comfortable to them.
And although the Luxome LAYR is also adjustable, the adjustability of the TEMPUR-Cloud pillow stood out in one key area: The TEMPUR-Cloud offers three types of shredded memory foam in the same pillow, while the LAYR offers just one. Each type of TEMPUR-Cloud shredded foam does something different: one helps adapt to your body’s shape to relieve pressure, one is extra breathable and uses an open-cellular structure to promote natural airflow and keep the pillow cool, and one is higher density that provides extra support and resists getting flat over time.
Testers say they can feel a slight difference between the Luxome LAYR and the TEMPUR-Cloud, and note that, likely due to the different types of memory foam in one pillow, the TEMPUR-Cloud feels slightly more uniform and less bumpy.
Who may want to use the TEMPUR-Cloud Adjustable Pillow: Side and back sleepers who want an adjustable pillow and prefer a medium firmness level.
Who may want to avoid the TEMPUR-Cloud Adjustable Pillow: Stomach sleepers who need a low loft. While you can remove the fill, it would reduce the pillow’s effectiveness and worth.
TEMPUR-Cloud Adjustable Pillow tester insights
Our testers like the TEMPUR-Cloud Adjustable pillow’s medium firmness and appreciate the way the shredded foam allows their heads to sink into the pillow.
They particularly like how the shredded foam feels more malleable, which means the pillow molds itself around their heads in a cozy way. Despite the sinkage, the pillow still feels supportive and keeps their heads elevated, which is important for neck and spinal alignment.
The pillow has a high loft out of the box. However, you can change this by removing the shredded memory foam to suit your preference. Our testers say they find it comfortable in the side-sleeping position with this pillow at full loft.
Our testers recommend lowering the loft for back sleepers by removing some fill. In this position, our testers say the pillow provides a nice contour to the shape of the head and neck and keeps the spine in good alignment. Stomach sleepers can remove more fill, but our testers think they’d have to remove too much to sleep comfortably, which means it may not be worth the price.
From one of our TEMPUR-Cloud Adjustable Pillow testers:
“I think this is a great pillow for back and side sleepers. I love that it feels like it naturally aligns my body. The level of customization is great, making it malleable to my preferences.”
Cozy Earth Silk Pillow: Best cooling pillow for neck pain
Why the Cozy Earth Silk Pillow is our pick for the best pillow for stomach sleepers
The Cozy Earth Silk Pillow is a luxury pillow made with a bamboo viscose cover and 100 percent mulberry silk. It offers a soft interior and exterior and a low loft, making it perfect for stomach sleepers.
Who may want to use the Cozy Earth Silk Pillow: Stomach sleepers should find this pillow a suitable loft height, and those who tend to sleep hot may find it offers effective cooling.
Who may want to avoid the Cozy Earth Silk Pillow: People who prefer a firmer pillow and sleep on their side or back are unlikely to get the support they need from this pillow.
Cozy Earth Silk Pillow tester insights
Our testers say they immediately noticed how soft the pillow is, in firmness and the overall feel of the outer shell. They describe it as “super plush, fluffy, and moldable” and say the feel is similar to a down pillow but less puffy. One important thing to note is that the Cozy Earth Silk Pillow has a low loft and compresses easily. For this reason, our testers don’t feel comfortable in the side-sleeping position because their head sinks too deeply into the pillow for their neck to be supported.
While we typically recommend a higher loft for back sleepers, our testers do feel comfortable in this position. However, back sleepers who prefer a firmer feel may want to look elsewhere.
The Cozy Earth Silk Pillow really shines in its support for stomach sleepers. Our testers say the pillow prevents the neck from craning upward and keeps it in alignment with the spine.
We also found this pillow the best for cooling. The bamboo it’s made from is known for its ability to regulate temperature and wick away moisture, preventing a hot, sweaty feel at night. The silk filling is also naturally breathable and helps air circulate throughout the pillow, preventing heat from building up and keeping things cool. Our testers say they’re impressed because they never feel the pillow heating up while resting on it.
From our tester
“This squishy, soft pillow compresses easily, keeping the neck in alignment with the spine while on my stomach.”
How we test and choose the best pillows for neck pain
The Handbook Team has researched 100+ pillows online and in person and hand-selected 50 pillows (and counting) of the best models to test. We’ve also interviewed recent pillow customers to understand the buying process and how their new pillows have impacted their sleep quality, physical health, and mental wellness.
Purchase mattress as mystery shoppers.
Set up mattress in testing lab.
Lie on mattress and rank firmness.
Lie on back, side, and stomach to find the best sleeping position.
Place 10-pound ball in mattress center and measure sinkage.
Find biggest pressure points using pressure map reading.
Evaluate cooling capabilities by recording temperature differences.
Drop 10-pound ball onto mattress to measure bounce score.
Test motion isolation.
Test edge support.
Calculate composite “family” scores.
First-hand testing experience
The Handbook Team hand-tests every pillow we review. We evaluate brands and models by recording our findings on a 20-question standardized testing form to identify standout features and services, document issues with each product, and describe our personal experience lying on each pillow.
For this review of the best pillows for neck pain, we focus on pillows that provide firm support to help cradle the neck while also offering different firmness levels to accommodate different sleep positions. For example, softer pillows are usually better for stomach sleepers so the pillow compresses enough under the sleeper’s body to keep their spine straight.
Surveys and interviews
We pay close attention to specific considerations that sleepers of all ages seek, as identified by respondents in our surveys of 1,200 total mattress owners.
For example, we discovered that most people sleep on their side and that 40 percent of side sleepers report neck pain. We use this information to prioritize certain criteria when selecting the best pillows for side sleepers.
Objective and honest ratings
We use information from our surveys and expert interviews to determine the most important features in our brand and pillow ratings.
Tips for relieving neck pain while sleeping
While neck pain can impact your daily life, ensuring you’re well-supported with a good mattress and pillow and practicing good sleep hygiene can help. As always, be sure to first consult your primary physician to rule out any underlying conditions that may be causing your neck pain.
- Try limiting stomach sleeping: Stomach sleeping requires you to twist your neck to the side, which can exacerbate pain and create tension in your neck. Sleeping on your back or your side helps keep your neck and spine in a neutral position and minimizes tension.
- Get the right mattress for you: If you’re not in the market for a new mattress, you can ensure it’s more supportive and pressure relieving through the placement of pillows or using a mattress topper. But if you’re interested in finding a better mattress, you’ll want to consider your body type and sleeping position.
- Make sure your pillow isn’t too high: If you’re sleeping on your side, you’ll want to make sure your pillow loft is right so your neck isn’t craning upward when you sleep. While side sleepers benefit from a higher loft than stomach or back sleepers, you don’t want your pillow to be too high. Make sure your pillow cradles your head and keeps it in line with your spine.
- Practice good sleep hygiene: Research shows that a lack of sleep may lead to increased musculoskeletal pain over time, so sleep is important to manage pain. Limiting your exposure to light before bedtime, reducing alcohol and caffeine intake, and meditating before bed can promote better sleep.
What to look for in a pillow for neck pain
When looking for a pillow to help manage neck pain, consider its firmness, loft (how high it is), materials it’s made from, and your sleep position to determine whether or not it’s right for you.
Pillow material
The material you choose will depend on the firmness level you’re looking for in a pillow. Materials like memory foam and latex can offer a firmer sleeping experience, while pillows made from down or a down alternative tend to be more “fluffy” and may cause your head to sink into the pillow.
Pillow firmness
The firmness you choose depends on your sleeping position. While a medium or firm pillow is best for people who sleep on their back or side, these won’t work for stomach sleepers who need something that compresses more easily to keep the spine in alignment.
Pillow position
How you position your pillow will depend on your sleep position. If you sleep on your back, you’ll want to make sure the bottom of your pillow meets the top of your shoulder blades so there’s no gap. For side sleeping, make sure the bottom of your pillow meets your shoulder so your neck doesn’t dip. For stomach sleeping, your head should be almost flat, so there’s no strain on your neck.
Our final verdict
For sleepers dealing with neck pain, we chose the Luxome LAYR as the best pillow overall for its high-quality construction, customizable loft and firmness, and the fact that it works great for all sleep positions. We also recommend the Brooklinen Marlow Pillow, TEMPUR-Neck Pillow, TEMPUR-Cloud Adjustable Pillow, and Cozy Earth Silk Pillow, so you can find one that’s right for you. Overall, we found the best pillows for neck pain are all supportive and help keep the neck and spine in a neutral position to avoid strain.
Finding ways to sleep comfortably with neck pain can improve your overall sleep quality and potentially help decrease pain. Because neck pain can be worsened by poor sleep and other underlying conditions, it’s important to consult your primary physician before drawing any conclusions.
Compare the best pillows for neck pain of 2024
| Fill material | Down alternative, gel-infused shredded memory foam | Gel-infused foam and polyester fiber | Memory foam | Shredded memory foam | Long-strand mulberry silk |
| Outer cover material | Bamboo viscose | 100 percent cotton with sateen weave | Polyester knit | Polyester knit | Bamboo viscose |
| Our firmness rating | Soft, medium, firm | Medium | Firm | Medium | Soft |
| Loft | Adjustable | Adjustable | Medium | Adjustable | Low |
| Sizes available | Standard, king | Standard, king | Small, medium, large | King, queen | Standard, king |
| Cost | $120, $150 | $49, $69 | $119, $129, $159 | $69, $89 | $254, $297 |
| Trial period | 30 nights | 365 nights | None | None | 100 nights |
Frequently asked questions
It depends on your sleeping position. Medium to firm pillows can help prevent the neck from craning down and causing strain for back and side sleepers, while stomach sleepers need a soft pillow that’s easily compressed.
It’s generally recommended that you replace your pillow every one to two years. Pillows can compress, leading to a lower loft. They also collect dirt, oil, and dead skin cells.
Memory foam pillows with a medium-to-high firmness are ideal for neck pain since they provide both contouring and the right amount of support.
- Sinnott, P. L., Dally, S. K., Trafton, J., Goulet, J. L., & Wagner, T. H. (2017). Trends in diagnosis of painful neck and back conditions, 2002 to 2011. Medicine, 96(20), e6691. Link
- Neck pain. American Association of Neurological Surgeons. (April 26, 2024). Link
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. What are sleep deprivation and deficiency? (n.d.). National Heart Lung and Blood Institute. Link
- U.S. National Library of Medicine. Neck pain: Medlineplus medical encyclopedia. (n.d.). Link
- Pang, J. C., Tsang, S. M., & Fu, A. C. (2021). The effects of pillow designs on neck pain, waking symptoms, neck disability, sleep quality and spinal alignment in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clinical Biomechanics, 85, 105353. Link
- Stomach sleeping may be the cause of your chronic neck pain. A Family Chiropractic Clinic & Integrated Pain Relief. (n.d.). https://chirodenton.com/stomach-sleeping Say “goodnight” to neck pain. Harvard Health. (2022, February 2). Link
- Yabe, Y., Hagiwara, Y., Sekiguchi, T. et al. Sleep disturbance is associated with neck pain: a 3-year longitudinal study after the Great East Japan Earthquake. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 23, 459 (2022). Link