I tested the Tempur-Pedic Neck pillow for side sleepers and loved it — but this is what I'd buy instead this Black Friday

A great side-sleeping pillow is one that effectively bridges the gap between your ear and shoulder while you're lying on your side. As a combination sleeper who spends most of the night curled up in this position, a supportive and comfy pillow is one of my sleep must-haves.

The Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Neck is one of the best pillows for side sleepers, which has garnered over 7,000 reviews on Amazon. Based on my testing experience, I'll say it's an excellent pillow — but is it really for everyone?

If you're looking for a strong alternative to shop in the Black Friday bedding sales, I'd recommend the Nest Bedding Easy Breather Side Sleeper pillow, which currently tops our guide. But how do they differ? Scroll down to read the full comparison based on price, comfort, support and more...

Tempur-Neck vs Nest Bedding Easy Breather Side Sleeper pillow: Price & deals

• Easy Breather is now 25% off for Black Friday
• You can snag a 'buy one get one free' Tempur-Pedic pillow deal during major events
• Tempur-Pedic pillows do not include a sleep trial

First things first, both the Tempur-Neck and Easy Breather Side Sleeper pillows fall within the mid-range price category.

The Tempur-Neck is available to buy in three sizes (small, medium and large) starting from $99. It comes with a 5-year warranty and free shipping, but no sleep trial.

Tempur-Pedic sales are unpredictable, which means you need to keep your eyes peeled to snag its incredible 'buy one get one free' pillow offer. I've usually spotted these limited-time deals in and around the time of major sale events, and they are excellent value for money. Right now, though, the best deal you can get is a 'buy two and save' offer, getting you a pair of pillows starting at $169 in a small size.

Nest Bedding Easy Breather Side Sleeper pillow comes in a single standard size, priced at $124. Unlike Tempur-Pedic, the Easy Breather pillow includes a 30-night trial period, two-year warranty and free shipping.

We've seen it up to 20% off previously, but right now you can save up to 25% in Nest Bedding Black Friday sales, which drops the price of the side sleeper Easy Breather pillow to $93.

Considering the current deal and sleep-benefits package, Nest Bedding Easy Breather Side Sleeper is a great option to shop now.

Tempur-Neck vs Nest Bedding Easy Breather Side Sleeper pillow: Design & materials

• Tempur-Neck is made of a single block of firm Tempur foam
• Easy Breather offers a more plush feel with a foam and fiber fill
• Both have a curved design specifically targeting side sleepers

While both pillows feature a curved shape which caters to side-sleepers specifically, their designs and overall build are quite distinct.

The Tempur-Neck is essentially made from a single block of firm yet contouring Tempur-Mat foam, carved to hold up your neck while side or back-sleeping. It arrives expanded and ready-to-sleep, so you don't have to worry about setting it up or any off-gassing.

The Tempur Neck is covered in a soft-knit hypoallergenic polyester case which is both removable and machine-washable. The design is simple and effective and would best suit anyone who is looking for consistent support, all night long. It also effectively maintains its shape and support without any fluffing or re-adjustments.

If you're after more of a traditional foam feel, the Nest Bedding Easy Breather will fit the bill. It consists of a blend of 80% non-toxic CertiPUR-US certified memory foam and 20% cushioning polyester microfiber.

The ergonomic shape here is not made to raise your neck up, but rather helps it sink into foam and fiber plushness. Thanks to the fully-adjustable design, you can add in or remove the fill to achieve the desired level of firmness and overall feel.

What's more? Like the name suggests, the Easy Breather also focuses on promoting airflow and better breathability with a cool-to-the-touch top cover made from Nest Bedding's proprietary Icecore fabric, plus spandex and polyester.

Tempur-Neck vs Nest Bedding Easy Breather Side Sleeper pillow: Comfort & support

• Tempur-Neck offers instant pressure relief like your favorite spa day
• Easy Breather is softer, delivering a more cushioning feel
• It's ideal for those who prefer the traditional 'sink-in' foam comfort

If you're after a pillow which can ease the pressure points and soothe your neck muscles while offering consistent sturdy support, the Tempur-Neck is your pick.

During the Tempur-Neck pillow review period, I found the instant pressure relief work just like a spa message — soothing my tensed neck muscles. The firm foam contours to your form while side and back sleeping, following the natural curve of your neck.

The minimal movement and superior support is also another reason why we recommend it as an ideal choice for anyone who regularly struggles with neck pain or aches.

In our Nest Bedding Easy Breather Side Sleeper pillow review, our tester found it to offer plush cradling comfort and support in all positions. While you can take out fill and adjust it to match your preferences, the brand recommends that side sleepers use it as it is.

The materials and adjustable design are similar to our best pillow overall- the Coop Original Adjustable. Need more info on how these compare? Read my article on Coop Original vs Nest Bedding Easy Breather Side Sleeper Pillow.

Tempur-Neck vs Nest Bedding Easy Breather Side Sleeper pillow: which should you buy?

Buy the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Neck if...

✅ You need a simple supportive pillow: The Tempur-Neck is great if your priority is a super supportive pillow that cradles your neck while side or back sleeping.

✅ You struggle with neck pain: The subtle contouring, sturdy support and instant pressure relief work wonders to soothe your neck muscles. It can also minimize movements during the night, which can prevent any further stress or strain.

✅ You're looking for a low-maintenance pillow: The Tempur-Neck is as easy as it gets when it comes to a low-maintenance headrest, with a removable and machine-washable top cover and a design that requires no fluffing or re-adjustments.

Buy the Nest Bedding Easy Breather Side Sleeper pillow if...

✅ You prefer a plush pillow: The Easy Breather offers that traditional sink-in foam plushness for cozy sleep.

✅ You're prone to overheat: Unlike the Tempur-Neck with zero cooling credentials (unless you upgrade at extra cost), the Easy Breather uses breathable materials and scored 5 out of 5 for temperature control in our tests, making it an ideal choice for hot sleepers.

✅ You're a combination sleeper: If you're someone who alternates between side and stomach sleeping, the Easy Breather will definitely be a better choice thanks to its adjustable design.