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Cervical pillows are designed to specially align your spine and support the neck. Because of this, the designs usually feature an extra supportive structure around the neck area and then slightly less support for the head. This straightens the spine and helps for those that have chronic neck pain. However, these pillows come in multiple forms and are specialized to sleeping position. We'll go through the best options below.
Overall Score: 9.4/10
Material Quality: 9.5/10
Comfort: 9.3/10
Support: 9.4/10
Cooling: 8.9/10
Odor: 9.3/10
Price: $29-$129
Cervical pillows are designed to align the neck and spine and come in a variety of shapes and sizes to support those that have differing body shapes and sleeping styles. Those that are stomach sleepers and back sleepers will prefer a flatter pillow as too much neck support can misalign the spine. Those that are side sleepers or sleeping in multiple positions during the night, will need something more supportive. However, finding the right pillow can be a pain both in the neck and the wallet.
As chronic pain and sleeping trouble have grown, so too has the demand for cervical pillows and products designed to align the upper spine. However, with this demand has come problems with quality. Having a pillow that is too firm or too soft can aggravate painpoints rather than solving them. This is one of the reasons we recommend learning as much as you can about the height of pillows that you prefer and also buy direct from quality companies and not shady knockoff sellers.
We'll go through the top 5 cervical pillows below, rated highly by customers and highlight which sleeping styles will align best with each pillow:
The Outside: The Tempur Contour Side-to-Back pillow is specifically designed for back and side sleepers, who find themselves rolling over in the night between these positions. With raised edges, this pillow will gently support the neck for side sleepers and with a less supportive softer middle will align the spine for back sleeping. With a 100% polyester cover, this pillow will sleep dry and comfortable for most.
The Insides: The comfort material inside the pillow is high quality Tempur foam material that is softer in the center for back sleeping, while being more supportive and firmer around the edges for side sleeping. The dual positions may take some getting used to while sleeping, but ensures greater comfort for dual sleepers.
What Customers Say: These pillows get very good ratings from customers overall. The biggest complaint is that the dual support zones take some getting used to. However, the versatility of this design makes it the best for many sleepers and not just those in one sleeping position.
The Rating : 9.7 / 10
Get Your Tempur Side-to-Back Pillow
The Outside: The Tempur-Neck pillow is ideal for back sleepers that want a traditional cervical pillow design. These have been some of the longest running pillow designs available and are widely copied by other brands. The Tempur-Neck pillow has added support for the neck and less support for the head so the neck is always supported properly. The cover is made of 100% polyester for a dry, comfortable surface layer.
The Insides: The insides of the pillow are made of high quality Tempur material that has a luxury firm feel for added support without feeling too harsh. It conforms to the head and neck, and is best for back sleepers.
What Customers Say: This is one of the highest rated cervical pillows and has been the most popular for years. However, there are some complaints from those that are side sleepers about the support level.
The Rating : 9.6 / 10
The Outside: The BioPEDIC Contour pillow has a similar design to the Tempur-Neck pillow with added support for the neck and a cradle for the head. With a higher profile than other contour options, it works well for back sleeping, as some side sleepers reported that the pillow was too soft for adequate support. The top cover layer is made of a cotton blend that should sleep cool.
The Insides: The inside of the pillow is one contoured piece of memory foam that is soft to the touch. With an open cell design, it won't have the same issues with heat as more dense foams. However, it is softer and less supportive.
What Customers Say: Most customers love this pillow as it provides a contouring and conforming comfort that facilitates alignment without being too firm to jar the neck upward.
The Rating : 9.4 / 10
The Outside: The Alwyn Super Cooling pillow is great for those that are worried about heat retention, but still want a contouring pillow. With a slimmer design than other contouring pillows, it is best for stomach and smaller back sleepers. Its cover layer is polyester that whicks away moisture and keeps things dry on the top layer.
The Insides: The foam within has cooling in mind with open cell technology that provides a medium firmness without trapping heat. This enables the sleeper to sleep cool but also get the benefits of contouring that memory foam provides. This is ideal for those that need less support but still want a contoured pillow that supports the neck area.
What Customers Say: Most customers like this pillow, though it is best for those that need less support than others. Some side sleepers found it less supportive, which is why we recommend some of the other options for side sleepers.
The Rating : 9.3 / 10
Get Your Alwyn Home Neck Pillow
The Outside: The Alwyn Memory Foam Contour pillow has a popular, flat design that is best for stomach and some back sleepers. Without as much support, the center area sinks well below the edges to cradle the head. This type of design is sought after when it comes to cervical pillows, but is really best when it comes to those that need much less support. The external cover is made of polyester so it stays dry throughout the night.
The Insides: The inside of the pillow is made of a contoured piece of memory foam that has a medium firmness feel, while not sleeping warm. It is flatter than other options so provides less support.
What Customers Say: Customers like these pillows overall, but many prefer the other designs mentioned above. These pillows are best suited for those with less support needs.
The Rating : 9.2 / 10
These pillows range from very flat, which is ideal for stomach sleepers that would not need much support to very fluffy, which is best for those that need greater support like side sleepers. Take a look at the above and match the pillow that works best for your sleeping position.
Anyone that has neck discomfort with their current pillow should consider cervical pillows as a helpful alternative. They do a better job maintaining their shape and providing long term support than other types of pillows.
I love it great value The Price is Right works perfectly with my cpap mask a real must have thanks Dan in Seattle
I think I like the traditional one ,this one is soso
I always slept wrong and would get painful kinks in my neck. My new tempur-pedic pillow has taken care of that. It provides cool comfort and the perfect support.
Bought this for my husband after he tried it in a store (it was the "demo" so had softened up) and he didn't like the new one because it was hard and forced his head into the groove & if you want to move to your side, you have to move the pillow as well... I tried to use it one night and didn't like it either. It sits on the floor in our room...with another rejected tempur pedic pillow. His old iComfort pillow is back in play. $250 later... I gave it 3 starts for quality of the materials. And in all honesty, we know we didn't give it a fair try, but only because it was so uncomfortable...we didn't want to go through "breaking it in".
Most of the times, I believe this is a good buy but sometimes I believe it caused the back pain. I am still under 60 days of the purchase and could not figure that out.
Snored my whole life. Got this pillow and now snoring is completely gone because it keeps neck straight and alligned with spine, unlike my old lumpy down pillow.
I own a Tempur Pedic mattress (10 years old) an I love it. I also own two 10 year old pillows - that are past their prime. I ordered the new pillow on line - without handling it in advance. This is a lesson learned - it is hard and not at all user friendly. However, I am optimistic that it will soften over time. Overall, I love the products!
Pillow is a bit hard but designed to support your sleep style
this is what I like, I love my new pillow, firm and support and comfortable. I definitely would recommend this to my friend.
I use this pillow every night and is good for my sleeping posture.
I use this pillow every night and even bring it with me when i travel. I do not have neck pain any longer
This is the pillow I've been searching for! I've had to change regular "firm" pillows every 4-6 months as they lose firmness (I eventually have to fold them in half, or sleep with my arm under the pillow) which results in neck/shoulder pain and poor sleep. This pillow, to me, is "the one"! I sleep on the neck roll side as I am a back/side sleeper. This pillow is firm and doesn't move! (and I don't have to sleep with my arm under it). I was skeptical at first, but I have felt relief from the tightness in my upper back and shoulders. This pillow does not heat up as my head is laying on it. And I couldn't pass this up for the price! Thank you Macy's!
After recent cervical surgery I needed more support from a pillow & tried many cheaper versions, then tempur-pedic had a sale to good to pass up. I sleep better now than before my surgery. Took some getting used to, but now I love it.
So comfortable I don't let anyone touch it but myself. I used to have my dogs use my pillow when I was out of the house and didn't mind. But now I put it away when I wake up so it doesn't get touched. Con, I wish I had a pillow case that fits firm. No big deal though.
Great for elevated rest and
Every night use, love it has made my sleep so much better. The longevity is impressive!!
The pillow is great overall but if the center was a little softer would be perfect.
This pillow encourages me to keep good posture when I sleep, which has really helped my upper back / neck tension significantly.
I bought this pillow to help me be more comfortable sleeping on my back after a bilateral mastectomy for breast cancer. I have never been a back sleeper, but have adapted with the help of the back/side sleeper pillow and the travel pillow. I'm sure my cloud lux breeze helps! These pillows are worth every cent!
I found this pillow to be too firm. Luckily the representative is allowing me to exchange the product as there is a 90 night trial period.
I have a lot of neck issues and this pillow is AMAZING!!!! It's really helped my neck out, and I notice I don't toss and turn as much in bed at night which is AWESOME. love this pillow and would highly recommend it!!!!
I have nothing but good things to say about Tempurpedic. This pillow is the best pillow I've ever used. I have a hard time falling asleep without it and actually purchased additional ones when we've stayed with family when visiting. Would highly recommend.
I suffer from back problems add this pillow along with my new temper-pedic bed have been so relieving. I wake up with less pain and less stiffness. I definitely suggest to buy the pillows.
Use for my main bed. Sometimes it's a bit too high to hold my neck completely. Also, my hair is curl outward after laying on this. Nevertheless, it's a good buy and I will repurchase in the future.
I got the back to side pillow and when i opened it, the smell was unbelievably strong. I left it in the window sill and after a week it was still unusable. I left it in the sun for over a month with the pillow case off and it was still too strong to put my head on. (i had no problem with my king mattresses!) After about 2 months, i started using it because the smell diminished and found that the pillow is wonderful. It has really helped my neck, back and snoring! I now recommend it but previously, was not a fan.
I need cervical spine (neck) support because I have lost most of my natural curve. This pillow supports my head properly lying on my back and on my side. I get a good nights sleep every night.
My husband and I both suffer from back and neck problems. I decided to try this pillow for the both of us with the purchase of our new bed. Neither one of us like it very much. You have to flip it from one side or the other depending on if you want the big or little neck support. Well, this depends on how you sleep, and I do not know of many people that sleep in the same position all night long. The pillow is also very flat, and I like a little more of an angle to my pillow.
I have a hard time sleeping, so am always on the lookout for anything that helps. My new TEMPUR-Contour Side-to-Back pillow helps keep me comfortable in one position for a good night's rest! Finally!!!! Thank you.
Was curious about this pillow for its dual purpose since I sleep on my back and on my side. I love the functionality it provides and the quality of Tempur-Pedic is always the best
I used to sleep on my side, which led to shoulder problems. I use the Tempur-Pedic to help me learn to sleep comfortably on my back.
I use this pillow daily and it solve the problem of my neck pain. Now I don't wake up with sore neck and I am happy with this product.
I sleep on my side and back, so this pillow is ideal for me. My neck and lower back feel much better since using this product.
I use it on my bed, so far it is doing a great job, it took a little time to get use to the pillow as I never had such a good pillow before ,but as each day goes buy doing a lot better and sleeping better.
This is my 2nd purchase of this pillow. Had the first one for 8 years. I didn't realize how far gone it was until I bought a new one. I'm guessing it held its form for a good 4-5 years.
Great quality and holds up well - but I wish the pillow had more height. It is a little flat for side-sleeping.
I bought and used this pillow every day. It is very comfortable sleeping on it, and I never had any sleeping problems using it. Definitely recommend to anyone who is looking for a perfect pillow.
I have had many neck pillows and this one is but far the best. I could have had two of these pillows if I didn't try the imitations first. Do yourself a favor and just get the original and best neck pillow
I've had the same Tempurpedic pillows for a really long time and just purchased a replacement set and couldn't be happier. They give my neck all the support it needs without being hard as a rock. The only thing that's slightly weird is their smell initially but that has faded pretty quickly.
My tempurpedic mattress is now 17 years old and I would love a new one, but alas can't afford it. The original investment in this mattress - the only expensive piece of furniture I own b/c sleep is SO important, was the best I ever made! I have been able to rest in spite all the arthritic joints in this bed like none other, and it's SUCH a delight to feel comfortable in bed!! I just LOVE it. I don't even like to travel anymore b/c I'm not abLe to sleep in other beds any longer. I tell everyone I know to get a tempur bed! I recently acquired a new tempurpedic pillow of a different format from my old one and I love this too :-)
I bought one of the first-generation TEMPUR-Pedic mattresses and neck pillows back in 1996. My memories are of one stinky but comfortable mattress and pillows. I couldn't sleep on the mattress for almost a week because of the strong and awful chemical odor. I had the windows open and walked on the mattress a couple times a day in an effort to get rid of the smell. It did finally subside, and I got around 12 wonderful and restful years of sleep on the mattress. I've since replaced it with another brand but kept the pillows, which finally wore out, and I replaced them with another pair of TEMPUR-Pedic neck pillows. Sadly, I was really disappointed when that familiar stench hit my nose as I opened the package. I had to hang them outside for a day to be able to breathe inside. It's been weeks now, and the smell has reduced but is still there. I can't wait for it to dissipate entirely, because I know what wonderful nights of sleep await me.
Sleeping has been so hard for me, but after getting my new Tempur-Pedic mattress I have been able to rest like a baby. I'm so thankful that I made the call to order my Tempur-Pedic. If you are having trouble sleeping go ahead make the call you will be as pleasantly pleased as I am
The pillow is super comfy. It has helped my back and neck issues that I've had for a few years. I all supported when I sleep on my side. My only complaint is that it's a little short. Im petite so I had to get a small size. But the pillow is not very wide. As I have a king bed...I don't have a lot of space to move around
I really do enjoy this pillow. Not too warm, nor cold. it accompany you in your sleep and really make your neck rest.
I've alwahs been really picky with pillows. I just can't seem to sleep without my tempurpedic. If I travel somewhere and forget it, I'm screwed. It gives me just the right support so I don't need any other pillows for my head. This isn't my first and it won't be my last. 10/10 would buy again.
This pillow has chamged the way I sleep. Two years ago I had a brain tumor removed from behind my cerebellum. The surgery involved slicing into the back of my neck (6" long), detached muscles, etc. and during recovery until now, I have had a hard time sleeping. I was recommended to get this pillow for my bed and I am sure glad that I did. I got the larger size since I am 6'2" and it immediately took the pressure off of my neck. I no longer have to sleep propped up with two pillows and wake up refreshed again. If I had to do it all over again, I would quickly purchase these pillows again, amazing product!
I've tried other pillows that are supposed to help with neck pain and proper alignment and I always come back to my favorite TEMPUR NECK pillow. Whenever we travel, this pillow has to come with me.
This is my third Tempur-pedic neck pillow! I am replacing them every 10 years! I can't sleep without it! I literally have not slept without it a single night in 20 years! It goes with me everywhere I go!
I was skeptical before the purchase. I have used similar pillows from other companies before with no noticeable results. But this one works! My constant neck pain is gone now. I followed the size suggestions, and it is a perfect fit. Very happy with the purchase.
I was having pain in my neck & when i bought a new neck pillow to replace my older one the pain was greatly reduced .
Love the curvature to the pillow. Gives good neck support when I sleep. Wish it was a little higher and longer bc my neck is a little too long for it, but it still works great!
This pillow if firm and supports my head and neck. Great product.
I had one for a while it was time to replace it; i use it every day; drag it on planes as my personal item because I can't be without it even for a few days. :)
No more neck pain
This pillow was recommended to me by my physician about 20 years ago, so I got one and never looked back. I can't sleep without it.
Like sleeping on a cloud
Very posture oriented and the adjustable electrical controls are very good. Also the pillows that are very good.
Relaxing and soothing. It forms perfectly to the curves of your body. It relieves stress and puts you to sleep. I would love a temper pedic bed because all I have is temper pedic pillows and a hard bed.
I loved Tempurpedic pillows but purchased some recently and they were not as solid as the ones I had before. I need a firm pillow or my neck hurts. Disappointed that they appear to have reduced the firmness in the pillow.
I have an issue with snoring. I stack this pillow on top of a smaller flat pillow and they provide just enough elevation to eliminate it.
Bought one for myself and a slightly smaller one for fiancée. Both are smaller than I would have expected, but they both feel great, and are supportive in the right places. There's a funny smell when you first get them, but it mostly goes away if you leave them out for a few days before use. Happy with purchase overall
I bought a small pillow based on neck size. Not realizing that the entire pillow would be so small. There is support for my neck. But the rest of the pillow provides no support. Certainly nothing you can curl up with. And I had to search for pillowcases to fit. It would be nice if Tempupedic sold cases to fit.
I am 5'4"" and the small pillow is the perfect size. Very supportive yet soft and squishy. I'm so glad they make this pillowin a small!
Love this pillow! So soft and comfy! Just what I needed
Super comfortable and great quality!
Awesome pillows!!!
Substantial quality, free shipping and very fair price.
It is light weight but is what I need for a great night sleep
Pillows much too firm.
Nice enough pillows, not quite as firm as I had hoped but they are heavy and they get the job done. I wish I could find a super hard pillow, but... Pros: Nice enough Cons: Not terribly firm, my head sinks.
Bought for son and wife they love it..
Super comfortable husband keeps stealing mine haha
Love this pillow! The SensorPedic memory foam pillow is the only pillow I have been buying for years. I had neck pain that would not go away with the standard foam pillows. The contour is what I needed...No More Neck Pain! Both my daughter and I change out our pillows every couple of years. It always feel Great to get New Pillows and we always purchase the SensorPedic! We love the iCool technology system...this lets the pillow breathe and the pillow stays cool and comfortable even in Summer. We highly recommend this pillow. 5 stars!
My husband and I both love these pillows! When we bough our new house and needed new pillows, I really wanted a great quality contour pillow, but didn't want to pay a fortune for them- problem solved!
Absolutely love these pillows. They are so comfy!
so very comfortable,just what i needed..!
Great pillow for support and easing morning backaches.
Very comfortable and soft. My only issue is that I needed it to be a bit firmer.
Very nice memory foam pillows. Indented feature makes for comfortable sleep.
good for guest or spare bedroom. Pros: good product for money Cons: not firm enough for me
Sleeping has been much more relaxing since receiving these pillows. I would definitely purchase again
We have had this type of pillows over the past few years. We really like these pillows.
This is a great memory foam pillow. I am pleased with it and it is just what I expected. I rate this four stars.
Just what the doctor ordered, but at a price I was willing to pay without ever having tried this type of pillow
Great! Comfy good quality Still using it,,,,, Want to get more
Love this pillow, it feels like cold water which for me is great. I have a lot of migraines and neck tension, this pillow has helped me get a better nights rest. Worth the price 100%
I have neck problems and need this type of pillow to keep my neck in alignment for less pain and better sleep. This one had a really funny plastic smell when I first started using it, but it has either dissipated of I have gotten use to it. Edit: it did not stay cool in the summer as advertised bur seems to be doing it on cooler night now which means i will be hating it in Janaury when I would want a warm cozy pillow. i guess it is a good thing i didn't throw my old one away
They arrived today, resting on them I can already feel the difference on my back. They are actually very cool! (Literally and figuratively!)
These are pretty small pillows. I guess they might be fine for some folks, wish I had seen them in person.
Great support for my neck
Gel side is continually cool, but entire pillow had a strong chemical gas smell for weeks- airing it outside helped to alleviate the odor
Very comfortable with good neck support... husband is begging for one now!
Perfect. Most comfortable pillow ever.
So comfortable and love the temperature
Love it recommend to everyone with neck problems and also back
This pillow is very comfortable, but the cooling feature doesn't work.
Does what it says it does and stays cool through the night. Pillow has some give to it so it conforms to your neck without feeling rock hard. On night three with it and haven’t had any issues falling asleep yet!
My fiancé is a hot sleeper and this seems to help him cool down a little!
This really is cool.(no pun intended) And comfortable ..recommended
Keeps my neck from hurting when I wake up.
Love it. I have been using a contoured pillow for years. This rates right up there with the best.
You get a great nice sleep with this soft and comfy pillow.
Feels great, not sure on the cooling effect.
Great pillow for the price!
Great pillow...great pricing...fast delivery
Amazing!!
What a great deal. And amazing quality.
For people who like firm memory foam pillows, it's perfect. It was a bit too firm for me, however I really, really like that it has the shoulder indent for side sleepers and the head indent. If it had a thicker profile, it could have possibly worked. 5 stars for it being a quality memory foam contour pillow.
A lot more firm than I am used to but woke up without a sore neck in forever.
It’s good. It was what I expected. However, I’m still looking for the right pillow to aid in neck back issues.
More firm than I wanted but good quality
I really gave this pillow a good go, but it's really too firm. I went back to a down pillow.
best night sleep had in long time..
It's more firm than I usually prefer (and I like firm), but I really like the divot and the support the pillow provides.
Great quality, size and shape.
Oh wow! Fits neck & head for perfect support! Love it, better than expected.
Very nice pillow.
The pillow sides and back are not as high as I thought they would be, it is very hard, it doesn't feel like memory foam. Label says 100% polyester. Pillow color is tan not white, the pictures shown must have fitted covers on them. It should have come with a fitted cover. So far it is somewhat comfortable I definitely wouldn't buy this pillow again.
*All metrics regarding customer sentiment are based on aggregated public review content, including reviews that have been submitted to this site and elsewhere that have been evaluated by our data science team. While we strive to provide useful metrics for the benefit of shoppers, we cannot certify their accuracy at any given time due to potentially incomplete and inaccurate data sources.
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