What are sleep tracking rings?

In the past few years, wearable sleep tracking technology has transformed the way we monitor our health. Convenient, affordable, and accurate trackers are becoming more and more accessible to people looking to diagnose or treat a sleep disorder. From logging sleep time and differentiating sleep phases to monitoring heart rate and tracking oxygen levels, these little devices can bring the reliability of a clinic to the comfort of your bedroom. 

One of the most popular and discreet sleep tracking wearables is so small you might even forget you’re wearing it. With a sleep tracking ring, you can monitor your vitals during the night (or day) without taping electrodes to yourself or wearing bulky equipment. While these rings may not be able to do everything a sleep study can, they pack a lot into a small package. So, what exactly are sleep tracking rings, and more importantly, what can they do?

What can sleep tracking rings measure?

Smart rings use the latest technology to track various biological metrics. They can track heart rate, blood oxygen levels, sleep duration, and more. Some models can even measure blood pressure and detect atrial fibrillation! Their ability to monitor and differentiate between light, deep, and REM sleep stages, paired with their oximetry capabilities, makes them a great tool for diagnosing sleep apnea and tracking treatment progress. While a sleep tracking ring alone isn’t enough for a diagnosis, it’s an accessible and reliable way to gather some key information about your sleep health.

How accurate are they?

You may think that smart devices were made for things like tracking steps, logging workouts, or setting alarms, but they are actually very accurate when it comes to tracking vitals. While just a decade ago, you would have had to spend a night (and your annual co-pay) at a clinic hooked up to big machines to track your sleep, today you can get nearly identical results from these little gadgets. In fact, one study found that smart rings track oxygen levels just as well as clinical-grade oximeters, and are comparable to polysomnography (the gold standard of sleep studies) when it comes to tracking sleep.

Is a sleep tracking ring right for you?

When it comes to sleep tests and the myriad of devices that can help you track sleep metrics, the best option will depend on your symptoms, medical history, and budget. If you suspect you may be suffering from a disorder like sleep apnea, a ring can be a good first step in gaining insight into your sleep patterns, but it isn’t holistic enough to measure other key indicators like airflow, brain activity, and more. However, if you’re thinking of pairing a smart ring with your sleep study, or using it to track your progress as you begin treatment, these devices can be a valuable addition when it comes to combating sleep apnea.

Wondering if sleep apnea is affecting you? Take a few seconds to check out the Dumbo Health Sleep Quiz, and with a few simple questions, you can begin your treatment journey today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do sleep tracking rings work for people who wake up frequently at night?
Yes. Rings can record multiple awakenings by detecting changes in movement, heart rate, and circulation. While they may not label every awakening correctly, they often highlight disrupted sleep patterns over time.

Can sleep tracking rings be used by people with medical conditions?
Rings can generally be worn safely by people with common medical conditions, but results may be affected if circulation is poor or if someone is taking medications that alter heart rate or blood flow. They should never replace a medical sleep evaluation.

Are sleep tracking rings suitable for shift workers?
They can be helpful for shift workers who want to understand how irregular schedules affect rest. Rings capture trends like shortened sleep duration and variable bedtimes, which are common in rotating shifts.

How long does the battery of a sleep tracking ring usually last?
Battery life varies by device but typically ranges from several days to a week. Longer-lasting batteries encourage consistent wear, which improves tracking reliability.

Do sleep tracking rings provide feedback beyond sleep data?
Many rings also measure daily activity, heart rate patterns, and recovery metrics. This additional information helps place sleep quality into a broader picture of overall health.

Wondering if sleep apnea is affecting you? Take a few seconds to check out the Dumbo Health Sleep Quiz, and with a few simple questions, you can begin your treatment journey today.