The 9 best pillows of 2023, tested by experts

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There are few pleasures as great in life as laying your head down on a soft, fluffy, enveloping pillow after a long day. That said, the best pillow is highly personal and will depend on your preferred sleep position, individual anatomy, and specific sleep concerns. 

We tested 26 different pillows and and spoke to several sleep experts for this guide. Our top pick is the Coop Sleep Goods Original Pillow, which we think will appeal to the largest variety of sleepers because of its customizable fill. For a budget option, we recommend the Beckham Hotel Collection Gel Pillows, which come in a two-pack and net out to about $30 a pillow.

Whatever you choose, the sleep experts we spoke to recommend picking your pillow with the same care and research you would devote to selecting the best mattress for your room. "A good pillow is absolutely a top priority," said Rebecca Robbins, sleep researcher, author, and instructor in medicine at Harvard Medical School and associate scientist at the Brigham and Women's Hospital. "No matter your budget, I really encourage people to splurge and invest in these products because they will help."

Find out more about how Insider Reviews tests and reviews home products.

The best pillows for every type of sleeper: 

Best overall: Coop Sleep Goods Original Pillow - See at Amazon
The Coop Sleep Goods Original Pillow offers thoughtful features like adjustable fill, a washable pillow cover, and an unparalleled 100-night trial that make it the best choice for most people.

Best budget: Beckham Hotel Collection Gel Pillow (Set of 2) - See at Amazon
The Beckham Hotel Collection Gel Pillows are an inexpensive option that still offers a comfortable, supportive night's sleep.

Best for side sleepers: Casper Original Pillow - See at Amazon
The Casper Original Pillow offers the loft and support that side sleepers need but with the soft and fluffy feel of a down alternative. 

Best for back sleepers: The Saatva Latex Pillow - See at Saatva
Luxuriously plush, the Saatva Latex Pillow offers an ultra-comfortable, hotel-like experience and is particularly well-suited to back sleepers.

Best for stomach sleepers: Parachute Down-Alternative Pillow, Soft - See at Parachute
Soft but not too thin, the Parachute Down-Alternative Pillow has the perfect loft for stomach sleepers who want just a bit of cushion.

Best for neck pain: Layla Kapok Pillow - See at Amazon
With its customizable fill, the Layla Kapok Pillow offers neck pain sufferers both support and comfort.

Best buckwheat: Turmerry Sobakawa Buckwheat Pillow - See at Turmerry
While sleeping on buckwheat hulls can take some getting used to, the Turmerry Sobakawa Buckwheat Pillow offers an adjustable, hypoallergenic, and sustainable option that works for all sleeping styles. 

Best down: Brooklinen Down Pillow - See at Brooklinen
The mid-plush Brooklinen Down Pillow conforms well to different sleeping positions, making it the ideal pillow for people who shift throughout the night. It feels as good as pillows double its price.

Best cooling: Leesa Hybrid Pillow - See at Leesa 
The Leesa Hybrid Pillow's cooling gel side provides cooling, while the quilted side offers a more traditional pillow experience for nights when you don't need as much support.