Best Affordable Pillows

The best affordable pillows combine high-quality materials and budget-friendly prices — and there are more options on the market today than you might think. Determining which is the right pillow for you involves considering aspects like adjustability, temperature regulation, durability, and support.

Although affordable pillows may have a lower price tag than luxury options, they can still be made with durable, high-quality materials that offer comfort and support without breaking the bank. A wide range of pillows are available at affordable prices, including down, down alternative, and memory foam options that come in different firmness levels and lofts.

When choosing a pillow, it’s important to take into account your sleeping position, body weight, and personal preferences. Different pillows have different strengths. For example, some pillows are designed to sleep cool, making them particularly useful for hot sleepers. Other pillows focus on adjustability, which makes them more versatile. These pillows might appeal to combination sleepers who change positions throughout the night and may need different kinds of support.

Based on our in-house testing, we’ll discuss our picks for the best affordable pillows, including their performance, what they’re made of, and how they feel. 

Product Details

Why It’s Best Overall

Due to its range of firmness levels, the Brooklinen Down Pillow provides optimal loft and support to a wide range of sleepers. Our tests showed that it molds easily while still retaining its overall shape, and the high-quality fill resists significant heat buildup.

How It Performed

The Brooklinen Down Pillow helped our testers maintain healthy spinal alignment across all sleeping positions. Our side sleepers preferred the Firm option, which has a dual core and higher feather ratio that kept them feeling properly supported. Our back sleepers found the Mid-Plush version provided a balance of support and comfort, while our testers who sleep on their stomach appreciated how the Plush pillow easily compressed. 

What It’s Made Of

The Brooklinen Down Pillow’s materials vary based on the firmness level. The Plush option consists of 100% Canadian white down clusters for a soft feel, while the Mid-Plush pillow contains an outer layer of down and an inner core of down and feathers for a supportive yet comfy feel. The Firm choice has a similar inner and outer core structure to the Mid-Plush option but contains more feathers and fewer clusters for greater support. Each version features a cotton sateen shell.

Despite the use of luxury fill, the Brooklinen Down Pillow is cost-effective for a wide range of budgets. The pillow is available in packs of one, two, or four, with additional savings the more you buy.

The SweetZzz Plant-Based Pillow combines a fluffy, medium feel with close contouring for a pillow that is comfortable for most sleeping positions. The pillow’s plant-based, natural fill is vegan-friendly and OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified, which means it is free of many common harmful substances. 

How It Performed

We found that the dual-layer system provided good support for most of our side sleepers, and our back sleepers appreciated the blend of a soft exterior and firmer interior. Stomach sleepers weighing less than 130 pounds also felt this pillow was comfortable, but those over 130 pounds found that the loft kept their head at an awkward angle.

The pillow’s two-chamber design and natural cotton cover also promote airflow, leaving the pillow cool to the touch. 

What It’s Made Of

The SweetZzz Plant-Based Pillow uses a plant-based down alternative fill inside a dual-layer structure. The outer layer is softer to provide more pressure relief. The inner layer is firmer and provides more support and contouring. A 100% cotton cover encases the pillow. 

For a pillow made with vegan materials and a high-quality construction, the Sweet Zzz Plant-Based Pillow has a competitive price-point. It also comes with free shipping in the contiguous U.S. and a one-year limited warranty.

Harnessing the pressure-relieving qualities of memory foam and the softness of down alternative microfibers, the Silk & Snow Pillow cradles the head while maintaining a plush feel. The pillow’s adjustable fill makes it a good option for anyone who wants to try different lofts or changes sleeping positions during the night.

How It Performed

We found that the Silk & Snow Pillow performed well for a variety of sleeping positions. Stomach and back sleepers can remove some fill to achieve good spinal alignment, while side sleepers can add fill to heighten the loft. 

Our tests showed that the shredded memory foam and cotton cover help promote temperature neutrality, keeping the pillow cool enough for hot sleepers or those who live in warmer climates. The cover can also be removed and machine-washed. 

What It’s Made Of

The Silk & Snow Pillow has a CertiPUR-US certified shredded memory foam core and a down alternative microfiber outer chamber. The pillow’s machine-washable outer shell is made from soft cotton. The entire pillow is OEKO-TEX certified, meaning it’s free of many common harmful chemicals. 

This pillow comes with a 100-night sleep trial, during which it can be returned for a full refund. Silk & Snow also provides a three-year limited warranty.

Thermoregulation is key to a good night’s rest, and your pillow can help or hurt this cause. The Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex Pillow is constructed with breathable core and cover materials to help ensure you stay cool and comfortable — even if the weather outside your bedroom is anything but. 

How It Performed

We personally tested both of the pillow’s profiles, and found the 5-inch model delivers ample cushioning for side sleepers. People who use this position often need extra padding between their head and downward-facing shoulder, which promotes even alignment and reduces pressure along the spine. Back sleepers on our team preferred the mid-range 4-inch profile instead. They could lie comfortably without too much elevation — a common source of neck strain for back sleepers.

Both versions of the pillow aced our temperature control tests. We’ve attributed this to the ventilated latex core and organic cotton cover, both designed to promote air circulation and maintain a comfortable temperature with minimal heat retention. Since the core is composed of solid latex, shape retention is another major strength and you should never need to fluff the pillow.

What It’s Made of

A Talalay latex core gives the pillow a light, responsive feel and produces a mellow bounce when you lay down your head. The material contours gently but won’t sink like memory foam. An organic cotton cover encases the latex. You may remove and machine wash the cover as needed, so the pillow is very easy to keep clean. Queen and king sizes are available.

In addition to its below-average price, the Talalay Latex Pillow qualifies for free ground shipping anywhere in the contiguous U.S. You’ll have 30 nights to test out the pillow before deciding whether to return it for a refund or keep it. Those who opt for the latter receive an additional three years of warranty coverage.

Side sleepers often benefit from thicker, denser pillows that fill the gap between their head and downward-facing shoulder, which in turn promotes proper alignment and reduces pressure buildup along the spine. The Quince Premium Down Alternative Pillow nicely checks all of these boxes. You can choose from two densities, and our tests show the medium/firm design is particularly well-attuned to side sleeping.

How It Performed

Our team tested both density options for the Premium Down Alternative Pillow, and the medium/firm design was most popular among our side sleepers. Some of the back sleepers on our team also preferred this density, but others experienced neck strain due to the higher profile and felt more comfortable on the soft/medium pillow instead. Stomach sleepers also enjoyed the soft/medium design more.

We found the down alternative clusters offer plenty of softness and moldability, but without the heat absorption that can occur with real down. You may need to fluff the pillow somewhat frequently to maintain a full shape. Also keep in mind the pillow may be too large for some household washing machines, especially those with agitators, in which case you’ll need a commercial appliance to clean it.

What It’s Made of

Plush, animal-free fiber fill gives the pillow a cloud-like feel reminiscent of designs you might encounter in a high-end hotel. The down alternative clusters are hypoallergenic and suitable to anyone who’s allergic to real down. A shell made of smooth cotton sateen encases the fill. Since the pillow may not be compatible with your washing machine, we recommend investing in a pillowcase or protector to ease the cleaning process.

Quince covers ground shipping costs for all U.S. orders. The company’s generous sleep trial allows you to sleep on the Premium Down Alternative Pillow for up to 365 nights before deciding whether to return it for a refund or keep it. Comparatively, most brands allow pillow returns up to 90 nights after the delivery date.

If you live with frequent or chronic neck pain, the pillow you use can make a world of difference. The Original Groove Pillow features an ergonomic shape specifically designed to support the neck, cradle the head, and promote even alignment. Solid foam infused with bamboo charcoal and a breathable scuba-knit cover also make the pillow a good option for people who tend to run hot.

How It Performed

We enjoy testing ergonomic pillows due to their pressure-relieving abilities, so the Original Groove Pillow was decidedly a hit among most of our team members. Side sleepers receive the cushioning they need to lie comfortably, while the pillow shouldn’t cause too much neck strain for back sleepers. If you use one — or both — of these positions, you should be able to use the pillow and wake up without stiffness or soreness.

Memory foam pillows tend to trap heat during our tests, but we found the Original Groove sleeps at a fairly comfortable temperature. A cooling infusion in the foam and breathable cover help regulate temperature, and most of our testers noticed minimal heat retention. Since the core contains solid foam, shape retention is a major strength of the pillow and you should never need to fluff it.

What It’s Made of

Solid memory foam infused with bamboo charcoal makes up the Original Groove Pillow’s core. This material is dense and adaptive, slowly responding to compression as you lay down your head and neck. The pillow’s ergonomic shape consists of a higher profile at the bottom for supporting the neck, and a small dip to accommodate your heat. 

A scuba-knit cover with mesh side vents encases the foam. You may remove and machine wash the cover as needed, though you’ll want to make sure the fabric is completely dry before reapplying. Otherwise you can permanently damage the foam, and fitting the cover over the pillow can be a hassle.

The Original Groove carries a below-average sticker price compared to other ergonomic memory foam pillows. You’ll also receive a 25% discount for purchasing two pillows. Groove ships worldwide to most destinations. Your order includes a 100-night trial. If you aren’t satisfied with the pillow, you may return it in its original packaging for a full refund within this time frame.

Equipped with a cooling cover and adjustable fill, the Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Cloud Adjustable Pillow can help prevent overheating while also promoting healthy spinal alignment for a wide variety of sleeping positions and body types. 

How It Performed

When it comes to spinal alignment, different types of sleepers need different kinds of support. For example, side sleepers usually need a thicker pillow that provides extra cushioning for the head and shoulders, while stomach sleepers usually need a pillow with a lower loft in order to avoid neck strain. Adjustable pillows allow the sleeper to make their own choices about things like loft and firmness, which is why the TEMPUR-Cloud Adjustable Pillow worked for so many of our testers.

We also found that the pillow’s materials and construction aided in its durability and ability to retain its shape. The fill and lining let our testers mold the pillow, folding it to achieve a higher loft or scrunching it up to attain a different shape. 

What It’s Made Of

The medium soft TEMPUR-Cloud Adjustable Pillow contains a blend of three proprietary shredded memory foams. Sleepers can add or remove fill through a zippered opening. A liner surrounds the fill, enabling sleepers to mold the pillow to meet their needs. The pillow’s removable, washable cover is made of 100% polyester and is treated with Surface Guard Technology, which is designed to prevent bacterial growth. 

This budget-friendly pillow comes with free shipping to the contiguous U.S. and a five-year limited warranty. Shoppers can also bundle multiple pillows for additional savings.

Types of Pillows

Like mattresses and bed sheets, pillows play a major role in sleep comfort. The main differentiator among pillows is the fill, which is the inner stuffing material. Fill is a significant determinant of how a pillow will feel, as well as how much it costs.

Polyfoam

Shorthand for polyurethane foam, polyfoam is a synthetic fill found in many affordable pillows. This spongy material compresses under pressure but then reverts back to its original shape when weight is removed. It quickly contours to the head and neck without feeling bouncy. However, some sleepers find that foam-based pillows retain more heat than other pillow types. 

Memory Foam

Originally developed by NASA as a shock-absorbing material, memory foam is a subtype of polyfoam that has been chemically altered to make it more elastic. Because of this property, memory foam does a good job of relieving pressure and absorbing body movements, though it has a tendency to sleep warm. 

Down

The soft insulating feathers in the underlayers of waterfowl such as ducks and geese are known as down. These feathers are used to make plush pillows with an all-natural fill. Long associated with higher-end pillows, down is appreciated for its soft and lofty texture. Many down pillows are mixed with less expensive quilled feathers, so check labels carefully to get clear on what you are buying.

Down Alternative

Down alternative pillows may appeal to people who appreciate the feel of down but want to avoid materials derived from animals. The specific materials used may include cotton, microfiber, or polyester, but all are manufactured to mimic the feeling of down. They are typically priced below comparable down pillows.

Latex

Derived from the sap of rubber trees, natural latex is lightly contouring and moderately springy. When used in pillows, it can either be shredded or inserted as a solid latex core. Solid latex pillows tend to be firmer and more supportive, while shredded latex is generally softer and more breathable.

Polyester

Polyester is a synthetic fiber used as pillow fill in many affordable models. Sleepers often appreciate that most polyester-filled pillows are machine-washable and tend to be soft and breathable. However, they are generally less durable than other pillow types.

Buckwheat

Buckwheat pillows are filled with the hard outer casing of buckwheat seeds, making them a viable alternative for sleepers who want natural fill with a firmer feel. They are also a good choice for people with changing thickness preferences, as many models have zippered designs that let you add or remove the buckwheat hulls to achieve your ideal pillow height.

What Can Affect the Price of a Pillow?

Pillows come in a wide range of prices that reflect materials, craftsmanship, and brand. However, it is possible to find a good pillow at any price-point. An affordable pillow, when paired with an affordable mattress, can contribute to a quality night’s sleep that doesn’t require a large budget.

• Type of pillow: Down, latex, and memory foam pillows tend to have a higher average price-point than polyester and other down alternatives. That said, each of these pillow types comes in a wide range of prices.
• Quality of materials: Higher-quality materials often lead to a higher price-point, but the initial investment will often result in a pillow that lasts longer. In addition to the fill material, pillow covers also vary in materials, thread count, and durability.
• Size: Most pillows are sold in standardized sizes that correspond with standardized pillowcase sizes. The most common sizes are standard (20 by 26 inches), queen (20 by 30 inches), and king (20 by 36 inches). Some individuals use body pillows, which typically measure at least 48 inches long. Price usually increases with the size of the pillow.
• Manufacturer: Pillow brands may cater to different segments of the sleep market, which can influence the prices they charge. Some manufacturers also offer perks like free shipping or extended warranties, which may affect pillow pricing.

What to Look For in a Pillow

We advise considering a few major pillow characteristics and how they relate to your individual needs and comfort. A good value pillow is one that meets your needs while remaining inside your budget.

Loft

Loft describes the height of a pillow when it rests on the bed without any weight on top. Side sleepers tend to prefer a pillow with a high loft that provides adequate support under the neck. Back sleepers often gravitate toward a medium loft. Most stomach sleepers prefer a low-loft pillow to provide a thin layer of comfort between their head and the mattress. Some back sleepers who are prone to snoring appreciate a high-loft pillow to keep their head upright.

Firmness Level

Firmness describes the rigidity and support a pillow has when someone rests on it. While stomach sleepers generally prefer a soft pillow and side sleepers a firmer one, back sleepers often find their ideal firmness level is somewhere in the middle. Those with a heavier head often find that a firmer pillow helps them maintain comfortable head and neck alignment.

Fill

Fill is the material inside the pillow that gives it its loft, firmness, and other characteristics. Some pillows are designed to let you add or remove fill to adjust the loft and firmness.

Pressure Relief

Pillows that gently contour to the head and neck, such as memory foam and down pillows, are often lauded for their ability to relieve pressure in the neck. However, a pillow also needs to have appropriate firmness and loft to deliver sufficient pressure relief, particularly for sleepers prone to neck pain.

Cooling Properties

Those who sleep hot may want to focus on a pillow’s cooling qualities. Breathable fill materials such as polyester, down, and latex are known for promoting temperature neutrality. While foam pillows tend to trap more heat, some foams include a cooling gel designed to help with temperature regulation.

Price

Pillow pricing varies, especially based on the fill and material quality. For example, pillows made of down alternative, polyester, or polyfoam tend to have lower price-points than latex, memory foam, or down.