Top Sleep Tracking Wearables: Pros and Cons

Tracking your sleep can be a game-changer when it comes to improving your overall health and wellness. With so many wearables on the market, it can be hard to choose the right one. Below, we’ll break down four popular options—Whoop, Oura Ring, Apple Watch, and Garmin devices—so you can find the best fit for your sleep tracking needs.

1. Whoop

Pros:

• Provides in-depth recovery and sleep performance metrics.
• Continuous heart rate monitoring and strain measurement.
• Great for athletes focused on optimizing performance.

Cons:

• No display; requires app for all data.
• Monthly subscription fee.
• No watch-like features (notifications, apps).

2. Oura Ring

Pros:

• Comfortable, discreet design that fits like a regular ring.
• Tracks sleep stages (light, deep, REM) and readiness score.
• Long battery life (up to 7 days).

Cons:

• Limited fitness tracking compared to other wearables.
• No display—requires the app to view data.
• Expensive upfront cost.

3. Apple Watch

Pros:

• Multi-functional device with notifications, fitness tracking, and apps.
• Tracks basic sleep metrics (duration, heart rate).
• Large ecosystem of health and fitness apps.
• No subscription required

Cons:

• Limited advanced sleep tracking compared to other devices.
• Battery life is short (1-2 days), requiring regular charging.
• Heavier and bulkier to wear overnight.

4. Garmin Devices

Pros:

• Excellent for fitness enthusiasts, with a focus on advanced metrics (HRV, sleep stages).
• Long battery life (up to 2 weeks depending on the model).
• Great all-around device for fitness and sleep tracking.
• No subscription required

Cons:

• Some models can be bulky for sleep tracking.
• Sleep data might not be as detailed as Whoop or Oura.
• Higher price range for more advanced models.

Final Thoughts

Each of these devices has its strengths, and the right one for you depends on your priorities. Whoop and Oura Ring offer specialized sleep and recovery tracking, while Apple Watch and Garmin provide broader fitness and lifestyle features. Whichever you choose, tracking your sleep can help you make meaningful improvements to your overall health.