Both pillows are designed to have a similar feel, the major difference however lies in the material of the filling. Goose down pillows are plump and fluffy pillows and filled with the under-feathers (or down) of goose while down alternative pillows are filled with hollow fibre to mimic the fluffiness of down pillows. Down alternative pillows are a perfect choice for those prone to allergies as some sleepers may react to down. They are also a less pricier option than goose down.