Pillow Top vs Memory Foam Mattresses: Which is Best for You?

Whether you’re tired of waking up feeling stiff and sore, sick of rolling into the dreaded “middle dip,” or just fancy an upgrade for your sleep sanctuary, a new mattress could be just what you need to get your sleep back on track. 

But should you choose pillow top or memory foam? 

They both sound comfy. And by all accounts, they both are comfy. But what’s the difference between pillow top and memory foam? And which one is the right fit for your sleep needs? 

In order to help you decide whether your sleep preferences align better with a pillow top mattress or a memory foam one, we need to dive into the pros and cons of each mattress type. In this guide, we’ll do just that. Scroll on to discover which mattress type will be a best fit for you. 

What is a pillow top mattress? 

A pillow top mattress is essentially a standard mattress with an extra, pillowy layer sewn onto the top. Picture a soft, lofty pad that looks like a giant cushion stitched into your bed — that’s the “pillow top.” But it’s not detachable like a mattress topper; it’s part of the mattress itself. 

The top mattress layer is usually made out of a combination of soft materials like wool, cotton, latex, or polyfoam, and it gives the mattress a plush, luxurious feel from day one. 

How does a pillow top mattress feel? 

If you’re trying to imagine what a pillow top mattress might feel like, think hotel bed and you’ll be on the right track. The pillow top is generally cushy and cloud-like. But thanks to the springs or hybrid base layer, it will retain the responsive firmness of the material hard at work underneath the fluffy, pillow-like layer on the top. 

Pillow-topped mattresses are great for most types of sleepers. But overall, we’d recommend them for: 

• Hot sleepers (pillow top mattresses provide better airflow than traditional memory foam – more on this later) 

• Anyone who appreciates the responsive support of a traditional mattress, but requires comfort too 

Pillow top mattress pros: 

• Instant plush comfort 

• Often more affordable than premium memory foam options 

Pillow top mattress cons: 

• The pillow top can compress over time 

• May not offer enough support for people with chronic pain 

What is a memory foam mattress? 

Memory foam is a pressure-relieving material that softens in response to your body heat and weight, then slowly bounces back when you get up. It’s the material that gives you that distinctive “hugged” feeling when you lie down. 

This techy sleep surface first popped up in NASA designs, and it’s now a go-to for anyone on the lookout for a contouring, pain-relieving mattress. 

What does a memory foam mattress feel like? 

Imagine lying on a mattress that gently moulds to every inch of your body, absorbing pressure like a sponge. No responsive springs providing resistance, just sumptuous melt-in comfort. 

Memory foam mattress are great for all types of sleepers really. But they’re especially good for anyone that needs additional relief from their pressure points. As such, we’d recommend a memory foam mattress for: 

• People suffering from back or shoulder pain 

• Light sleepers who don’t want to feel every movement their partner makes 

Memory foam mattress pros: 

• Excellent pressure relief and spinal alignment 

• No motion transfer (ideal for couples) 

• Durable and long-lasting when made with quality foam 

Memory foam mattress cons: 

• Can retain heat (although modern designs now feature cooling layers) 

• Some people find the “hugging” sensation too soft or restrictive 

• Takes a bit longer to return to shape when you move 

Which one’s right for you? 

Here’s a quick breakdown: 

Feature	Pillow Top	Memory Foam
Feel	Soft, plush, springy	Contouring, “hugging”, less bounce
Best for	Back/stomach sleepers, sleepers who crave comfort	Side sleepers, pain relief
Motion isolation	Ultimately depends on the mattress materials below the pillow top*.	Excellent
Heat retention	Low	Moderate to high. Better with cooling technology
Longevity	Moderate (pillow top mattress component only)	High when made using quality foam
Price range	Usually more budget-friendly	Varies. Can be pricier when considering high quality foam.

 

*Pillow top mattresses with pocket springs great motion isolation. So, if you're craving the superior comfort of a pillow top mattress and looking for a mattress that minimises partner disturbance, look for a pillow top pocket sprung mattress like our Simply memory foam pocket sprung pillowtop mattress.  

Pillow top vs memory foam mattress FAQs

Still not quite sure? Hopefully these FAQs will clear things up further. 

Do pillow top mattresses sag quickly? 

They can — especially cheaper models. That extra top layer is comfy but can flatten over time. But, the main section of the mattress will remain supportive and comfortable to sleep on long afterwards. If you’re planning on buying a pillow top mattress, look for high-quality materials and a good guarantee. At Bensons, our pillow top mattresses come with a minimum 5-year warranty. 

Is memory foam too hot for UK summers? 

Not necessarily. Memory foam has a bit of a reputation for being too hot. But that is thanks to the traditional memory foam which did tend to trap heat. Memory foam has evolved a lot in recent history and many modern versions include cooling gel layers, breathable covers, or open-cell foam to help regulate body temperature. 

Can I flip a pillow top mattress? 

No. The majority of pillow top mattresses are single-sided. You can (and should) rotate it 180 degrees every few months to help promote even wear. 

Is memory foam good for bad backs? 

Absolutely. It’s designed to contour and support your spine, making it a popular choice for people with lower back pain or joint issues. Just make sure you choose the right firmness level for your preferred sleep position. 

Which one lasts longer? 

High-density memory foam tends to outlast pillow tops, but durability really depends on the quality of the mattress overall. Always check warranty periods and customer reviews if you’re buying online. 

Memory foam vs pillow top mattresses: final thoughts 

Whether you’re a memory foam fan or prefer a plush pillow top, the best mattress is the one that supports your sleep style and preferences. A pillow top might be perfect if you love a soft feel with springy support. On the other hand, memory foam could be your dream come true if you want pressure relief and that cosy, sink-in sensation. 

Still unsure? Our advice: lie down on both. Your body will know. 

And if you need a hand, we’re always here to help. Give us a shout, visit your local store, or explore our range online — your perfect mattress might just be a click away.