Sleep technology comes in various forms, such as trackers, apps, and even smart beds. However, it’s important to understand that not all sleep tech addresses the same issues. Whether you want to improve your athletic performance or mask the sound of your partner’s snoring, it’s crucial to evaluate how a gadget aligns with your specific sleep goals before making a purchase.
One key factor to consider is how well a device fits into your lifestyle. For instance, if you find yourself taking off wrist-based sleep trackers in the middle of the night, it’s pointless to invest in such a gadget. In that case, you might want to explore non-invasive options like the Withings Sleep or the Google Nest Hub. The device you choose should excel at addressing the main issue it aims to solve, without trying to do too much at once.
Another important aspect is the value of the sleep tech. Since sleep gadgets can be expensive, it’s essential to feel like the investment was worth it. Additionally, comfort is crucial for good sleep, so the gadget should not disturb your sleep. If a tracker is too bulky or a smart mattress cover feels lumpy, it can hinder your sleep rather than enhance it.
Context is key when it comes to sleep data. If you opt for a sleep tracker, it should present your sleep data in a clear and meaningful way. The graphs and information should provide valuable insights, rather than being a jumbled mess. Furthermore, battery life is an important consideration. A sleep gadget should be able to last through the night without dying. If the device also serves as a fitness gadget or wearable, it should either have long battery life or support fast charging to ensure it doesn’t run out of power midway through the day.
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It’s important to note that sleep tracking accuracy should be taken with a grain of salt. While sleep tech has improved in recent years, these devices are not medical tools and cannot diagnose sleep disorders. They are meant to identify when something is off and provide insights. Understanding these limitations is crucial when using sleep gadgets.
Based on these considerations, two highly recommended devices are the Oura smart ring and the Google Pixel Watch. The Oura Ring stands out for its comfort and comprehensive sleep tracking capabilities. It offers features like quantified meditation sessions, daytime heart rate measurement, and recovery tracking. The Oura Ring provides valuable context for its data and has a battery life of up to a week.
On the other hand, the Google Pixel Watch offers access to Fitbit’s sleep tracking platform. With excellent sleep tracking capabilities, including sleep stages, it allows users to compare their sleep with others of the same age and sex. The Pixel Watch also provides a Daily Readiness Score based on long-term activity and sleep quality. It has additional features such as built-in GPS, silent alarms, contactless payment, and notifications.
Ultimately, the choice between these devices depends on individual preferences and needs. While the Oura Ring excels in comfort and comprehensive sleep tracking, the Google Pixel Watch combines sleep tracking with other practical features. Both devices offer valuable insights into sleep quality and can help users achieve their specific sleep goals.
