The Best Sleep Apps to Help You Get Some Shut-Eye, Tried and Tested

If you wake up tired or are concerned about thequality of your sleep, there are many apps to help.According toHannah Owens, LMSW, the best sleep tracker apps are the ones that help you understand patterns in yoursleep habits. These apps use input such as sound, heart rate, bedtime, and wake time togive you a snapshot of the duration and quality of your sleep.Tracking your sleep can bring awareness to how much or how little rest you get, prompting lifestyle changes to improve your sleep. A 2019 journal article even found that some sleep apps candetect sleep-wake stages(how often you wake up in the night) and sleep-related breathing disorders similar to clinical sleep studies.Still, it’s best to use sleep apps to gather additional information, not as a replacement for medical advice or a clinicalsleep study.Many apps use data from wearable devices such as an Apple Watch toprovide you with a “sleep score”(which tracks your sleep patterns) andcreate graphs that show changes over time.Some apps allow you to export your data to share it with your healthcare professional for follow-up. We looked at several sleep tracker apps to find the best ones and tried them all ourselves to see if they helped identify issues and improve sleep quality. We also consulted two licensed therapists—Amy Marschall, PsyD, and Hannah Owens—before compiling our top picks for the best sleep apps. Here are the ones we recommend.The 6 Best Sleep AppsBest Technology:OuraBest for Apple Watch:SleepWatchBest for Falling Asleep:CalmBest for Extra Features:PillowMost Versatile:Sleep CycleBest With Coaching:Sleep ResetBest Sleep Music Apps

The 6 Best Sleep AppsBest Technology:OuraBest for Apple Watch:SleepWatchBest for Falling Asleep:CalmBest for Extra Features:PillowMost Versatile:Sleep CycleBest With Coaching:Sleep Reset

Best Sleep Music Apps

The Best Sleep Apps to Help You Get Some Shut-Eye, Tried and TestedView AllThe Best Sleep Apps to Help You Get Some Shut-Eye, Tried and TestedOur Top PicksOuraSleepWatchCalmPillowSleep CycleSleep ResetSee More (3)Compare AppsHow to ChooseIs a Sleep App Right For You?Frequently Asked QuestionsMethodology

The Best Sleep Apps to Help You Get Some Shut-Eye, Tried and TestedView All

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The Best Sleep Apps to Help You Get Some Shut-Eye, Tried and Tested

Compare Apps

How to Choose

Is a Sleep App Right For You?

Frequently Asked Questions

Methodology

Best Technology:Oura

OuraSign Up Now

Oura

Oura Ring Gen3

Key Specs

Pricing:Starts at $299 for ring; $6 per month for membership (first month free)Operating System:iOS, AndroidApp Store Rating:4.6/5 (App Store), 4.4/5 (Google Play)

Why We Chose It

The Oura ring is a device you wear on your finger all day and night. This ring measures heart rate, movement, and temperature and relies on the variability of these measurements to identify the stages of sleep.A study suggests the Oura ring is 96% accurate when all of the data points it collects are recorded and used in combination with its sleep-tracking algorithm,which is why we chose it as best for technology. We also found the Oura app helpful because it gives an easy-to-read chart of different sleep stages each night and an overall sleep and readiness score each morning. It also highlights patterns and changes over time.

Pros & Cons

ProsUses multiple metrics to track your sleepSyncs with Apple HealthClear analysis of sleep patterns and easy-to-understand sleep scoreTracks patterns and changes in sleep over timeSmall and easy to wearBattery lasts for multiple daysUser-friendly app with resources to help improve sleepConsYou must use the app with the Oura ringPricey compared to other devicesNeed to remember to charge the ring

Uses multiple metrics to track your sleep

Syncs with Apple Health

Clear analysis of sleep patterns and easy-to-understand sleep score

Tracks patterns and changes in sleep over time

Small and easy to wear

Battery lasts for multiple days

User-friendly app with resources to help improve sleep

ConsYou must use the app with the Oura ringPricey compared to other devicesNeed to remember to charge the ring

You must use the app with the Oura ring

Pricey compared to other devices

Need to remember to charge the ring

Our Testing

We liked that the app uses our data to calculate a numeric “sleep score” and “readiness score” each morning, letting us know how well we slept and how well we recovered from the day before, which can help us set realistic goals for the day. We also liked that the ring is not intrusive or bulky like a watch or wristband, the battery lasts multiple days, and the ring charges in just a couple of hours. We also found it helpful to see the changes in our daily readiness score for the day, which helps us choose appropriate workouts based on the feedback and tips provided (for example, if we got worse sleep one night, maybe we don’t go as hard at the gym that day).

The Oura ring requires a monthly membership to access all data and insights on the app. This membership gives you unlimited sleep history tracking, charts to visualize your sleep patterns, a readiness score, and more. We liked that after a couple of weeks, the Oura app learned our sleep patterns and gave us personalized tips and reminders, like when to start winding down for bed to improve sleep quality. Overall, if you’re looking for a comprehensive sleep tracker app and wearable device, Oura has all the features to fully understand your sleep and recovery patterns.

Plans & Pricing

Free Trial:Yes, one monthMembership Required:No, you can use the app without the membership, but it is very limited in the data it provides. To get the most out of the device, you’ll need a membership.Total Costs:The Oura ring starts at $299. The app is free to download; membership costs $6 per month.

Best for Apple Watch:SleepWatch

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SleepWatch

Pricing:$5 per month or $40 per yearOperating System:iOSApp Store Rating:4.7/5

The SleepWatch app uses information including sound, thetime you go to bed, and data from the Apple Watch, like heart rate and movement, to track your sleep cycles. We chose SleepWatch as the best Apple Watch app because it seamlessly integrates with the watch and automatically collects data, so there is no need to remember to press start before you go to sleep. We also liked that it analyzes several metrics to give you an easy-to-understand snapshot of how well you slept.

ProsDesign is clear and user-friendlySleep graphs are easy to understandAll sleep metrics are clearly definedOffers white noise and nature sound capabilitiesTracks accumulated sleep debtIncludes sound trackerHas a helpful sleep education libraryConsSome analysis is very technical and difficult to understandComparison to other users is not always helpfulOnly available on the Apple Store

Design is clear and user-friendly

Sleep graphs are easy to understand

All sleep metrics are clearly defined

Offers white noise and nature sound capabilities

Tracks accumulated sleep debt

Includes sound tracker

Has a helpful sleep education library

ConsSome analysis is very technical and difficult to understandComparison to other users is not always helpfulOnly available on the Apple Store

Some analysis is very technical and difficult to understand

Comparison to other users is not always helpful

Only available on the Apple Store

All we needed to do was wear our Apple Watch to bed, and the app did the rest. One of our favorite aspects of the app was the white noise composer, as it allowed us to create a custom white noise mix. We found the number of insights slightly overwhelming, so we mainly focused on the length and quality of our sleep. One of the features that caught our attention was that it records any sounds throughout the night with the ability to play them back in the morning. Some users may not like this, but we found it helpful to hear how much or how little we snored or talked at night. The most valuable information we saw: reports on three-daysleep debt(when you get less than the recommended number of hours a night), sleeping and waking times, and how close we were to reaching our nightly sleep goal.

“Based on my sleep reports, SleepWatch gave me personalized recommendations, tips, and optimal bedtime reminders. For example, the app noticed that I went to bed at wildly different times each night and recommended that I set a consistent bedtime."—SleepWatch tester, who tried it for a month

—SleepWatch tester, who tried it for a month

Don’t have an Apple Watch? Don’t worry; you can also use the app without one. We also tested it without using the watch, and it was easy to start and stop sleep tracking and answer brief questions in the morning to compile our sleep report. There is also the option to track behaviors such as late-night eating oralcohol consumptionto help identify if certain behaviors impact the quality of your sleep. This is helpful if you are trying to determine what disrupts your sleep. We did find it frustrating that the app doesn’t necessarily tell you how to use the data to improve sleep and sometimes overloads you with information that isn’t particularly relevant to changing behaviors, like how you compare with others similar to you.

Free Trial:Yes, one weekMembership Required:No, but features are limited without a membershipTotal Costs:The premium membership is $5 per month or $40 per year, which gives you access to all the features on the app.

SleepWatch App Review

Best for Falling Asleep:Calm

Courtesy of iTunesSign Up Now

Courtesy of iTunes

Calm App

Pricing:$15 per month or $70 per yearOperating System:iOS, AndroidApp Store Rating:4.8/5 (App Store), 4.4/5 (Google Play)

We chose Calm as the best app for falling asleep because of its extensive library of sleep sounds, meditations, and sleep stories—all resources that put you in deep relaxation and help lull you to sleep. We liked that we could immediately access a limited amount of content with the free version and could sign up for a one-week trial of the premium membership to gain access to all the content and decide if it suited our needs.

ProsWide variety of contentUses talented voice actors, meditation leaders, and celebritiesAudio is crystal-clearSet reminders to come back to the appFlag your favorite contentDownload content for offline useSet sleep timersConsRefundmay not be possibleExpensive if you don’t use it consistentlyDoes not offer sleep insights like other apps

Wide variety of content

Uses talented voice actors, meditation leaders, and celebrities

Audio is crystal-clear

Set reminders to come back to the app

Flag your favorite content

Download content for offline use

Set sleep timers

ConsRefundmay not be possibleExpensive if you don’t use it consistentlyDoes not offer sleep insights like other apps

Refundmay not be possible

Expensive if you don’t use it consistently

Does not offer sleep insights like other apps

Ever lay awake at night with a million thoughts running through your head, unable to fall asleep? This is where sleep apps likeCalmcome in handy. The Calm app is designed to help you relax and decrease stress and anxiety, a common cause ofsleep disturbances. A 2021 study found that using Calm at night helped users fall asleep, stay asleep, and not wake up too early, largely due to its extensive collection of sleep stories, sounds and white noise, and sleep meditations.

We really enjoyed using the Calm app before bed to help usunwind and relax. We started with soundscapes—think rain hitting the window or water running through a stream—and those were great, but we were even more impressed with all the other options the app offers. Calm also features various music playlists if you like tolisten to musicbefore bed. The songs seamlessly blend and are soothing and slow in tempo. We particularly enjoyed the collection of celebrity sleep stories to help lull us to sleep. Who knew listening to one of your favorite actors talk could be so relaxing? Lastly, the sleep meditations are similar to other apps, and we found them to be a great way todecrease stressbefore bed, especially after a busy day.

—Calm tester, who used a variety of soundscapes, music playlists, and sleep stories

Like other self-care apps, you get out of Calm what you put into it. We found it works best when used every night and can seem expensive if you aren’t using it regularly. Since our primary goal with this app was getting help falling asleep, we did not mind that it lacked many of the features of other apps on the list, like sleep tracking and noise recordings. So, if you aren’t interested in sleep data, using Calm to help you fall asleep may be a great option.

Free Trial:Yes, one weekMembership Required:No, but features are limited without a membershipTotal Costs:You can choose a membership plan of $15 per month, $70 per year, or $400 for a lifetime subscription. There’s also a family subscription option that’s $100 per year for up to six people.

Calm App Review

Best for Extra Features:Pillow

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Pillow

Pricing:Free; Pillow Premium is $10 per month and has a 1-week free trialOperating System:iOSApp Store Rating:4.4/5

We chose Pillow as the best app for extra features as it offers audio recordings, sleep trends, heart rate and oxygen saturation tracking, sleep sounds, a nap mode, bedtime reminders, and personalized insights and tips to improve your sleep. We liked the detailed reports it provided each morning, which gave us insight into far more than just what time we went to bed. Like some other apps on this list, it includes audio recordings, which we realize are helpful to understanding our quality of sleep but sometimes feel like an invasion of privacy.

ProsTime-stamped noise recordingsPersonalized insights and tips to improve your sleepSleep stages presented in a simple color-coded graphTracks lots of sleep metrics, including time asleep and restless sleepRelatively low cost for both monthly and annual subscriptionsSign-up process is easy and intuitiveData analysis page is clear and easy to understandConsOnly available on iOSBest results when paired with an Apple WatchMust activate the sleep session each night

Time-stamped noise recordings

Personalized insights and tips to improve your sleep

Sleep stages presented in a simple color-coded graph

Tracks lots of sleep metrics, including time asleep and restless sleep

Relatively low cost for both monthly and annual subscriptions

Sign-up process is easy and intuitive

Data analysis page is clear and easy to understand

ConsOnly available on iOSBest results when paired with an Apple WatchMust activate the sleep session each night

Only available on iOS

Best results when paired with an Apple Watch

Must activate the sleep session each night

“The sleep page shows total sleep time and a sleep stage analysis of how much time I spend awake, in R.E.M. sleep, in light sleep, and deep sleep."—Pillow tester, who used it with their Apple watch

“The sleep page shows total sleep time and a sleep stage analysis of how much time I spend awake, in R.E.M. sleep, in light sleep, and deep sleep.”

—Pillow tester, who used it with their Apple watch

One of the most significant drawbacks was that we had to start a sleep session each night manually and set an alarm to wake up in the morning. We found it challenging to remember to start the sleep session and didn’t enjoy having an alarm set for the weekends. We also ran into issues with our Apple Watch dying halfway through the night, which ended the sleep session early. Overall, Pillow offers helpful insights into sleep quality. However, having to wear an Apple Watch and start a sleep session every night might be cumbersome for some users.

Free Trial:Yes, one weekMembership Required:No, but features are limited without a membershipTotal Costs:Pillow does offer a free option with limited content, or you can get a Pillow Premium subscription for $10 per month. It also offers Premium Sleep Tracking for $39.99, a quarterly Premium subscription for 59.99, and an annual Premium subscription for $39.99.

Most Versatile:Sleep Cycle

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Sleep Cycle

Pricing:$10 per month or $40 per year; 1-week free trialOperating System:iOS, AndroidApp Store Rating:4.7/5 (App Store), 4.3/5 (Google Play)

We choseSleep Cycleas the most versatile app because it not only tracks sleep but also has an education library and quick, podcast-like recordings on various sleep-related topics. Sleep Cycle also has exercises for daytime relaxation to help prepare you for better sleep, which is something we had not considered before using the app. We also liked that it includes sleep sounds and stories to help lull us to sleep and uses sound recordings to track disturbances throughout the night.

ProsOverlay of audio recordings on the sleep cycle graphAble to identify a variety of different soundsTime-stamped sleep recordingsJournal to add notes in the morningShort educational recordings addressing sleep problemsSix different programs to choose fromIncludes breathwork exercisesConsLack of in-depth analysis of sleep compared to other appsNeed to manually start and stop sleep trackingPoor descriptions of different tracking metrics

Overlay of audio recordings on the sleep cycle graph

Able to identify a variety of different sounds

Time-stamped sleep recordings

Journal to add notes in the morning

Short educational recordings addressing sleep problems

Six different programs to choose from

Includes breathwork exercises

ConsLack of in-depth analysis of sleep compared to other appsNeed to manually start and stop sleep trackingPoor descriptions of different tracking metrics

Lack of in-depth analysis of sleep compared to other apps

Need to manually start and stop sleep tracking

Poor descriptions of different tracking metrics

“Sleep Cycle has exercises for daytime relaxation to help prepare you for better sleep, as well as tips and tricks for when sleep is being evasive at bedtime. Some of the tips are as simple as keeping your room cool and dark. Others include reprogramming your mind to stop negative thoughts at bedtime."—Sleep Cycle tester, who found it helpful for learning healthier sleep habits

—Sleep Cycle tester, who found it helpful for learning healthier sleep habits

We spent some time exploring the guidedmeditations, sleep stories,breathworkexercises, and educational portals. The quick and informative audio recordings, videos, and articles helped us better understand how and why improving sleep hygiene is essential. Scientists, doctors, and experts lead these tutorials, often offering valuable solutions to various sleep problems. We wouldn’t say this immediately changed our sleep habits, but it did bring more awareness to the parts of our daily routine that could use some work. What we liked most about the app is that no equipment or fitness wearables are needed; you only need to have your phone beside your bed.

Sleep Cycle must be turned on before going to bed, and since it uses sound analysis to identify sleep states, we did find that it picked up all the sounds in the room, which led to some errors. Starting and stopping the sleep timer manually can be problematic because it is hard to remember to do this every night. Overall, Sleep Cycle seemed to do a great job tracking sleep data throughout the night and is a versatile choice if you are interested in the science behind better sleep.

Free Trial:Yes, one weekMembership Required:No, but features are limited without a membershipTotal Costs:A Sleep Cycle premium subscription is $10 per month or $40 for one year

Best With Coaching:Sleep Reset

Pricing:Up to $29 for 7-day trial, then $300 for 8-week planOperating System:iOS, AndroidApp Store Rating:4.8/5 (App Store), 4.3/5 (Google Play)

In the past, we’ve found it hard to implement sleep recommendations on our own or stick with a program over time. That is why we tried the Sleep Reset app, as it comes with a one-on-one coach to help guide you through the program, provide personalized recommendations, and keep you accountable to the plan for the entire eight weeks.

ProsDaily lessons and sleep questionnaires24/7 access to text messaging with a personal coachCoach can make changes to the strategies used to improve sleepEight-week commitment is manageableCustomized experienceChoose how much you pay for week-long trialUses CBT-I strategies to improve sleepConsExpensiveProgram is intense, and takes work and dedicationApp can be glitchy

Daily lessons and sleep questionnaires

24/7 access to text messaging with a personal coach

Coach can make changes to the strategies used to improve sleep

Eight-week commitment is manageable

Customized experience

Choose how much you pay for week-long trial

Uses CBT-I strategies to improve sleep

ConsExpensiveProgram is intense, and takes work and dedicationApp can be glitchy

Expensive

Program is intense, and takes work and dedication

App can be glitchy

“I appreciate that I can send my coach a quick text message at any time of day to ask for clarification on a sleep strategy or advice for adjusting the program to better fit my needs."—Sleep Reset tester, who liked the personalized aspects of having a sleep coach

“I appreciate that I can send my coach a quick text message at any time of day to ask for clarification on a sleep strategy or advice for adjusting the program to better fit my needs.”

—Sleep Reset tester, who liked the personalized aspects of having a sleep coach

As we worked through the eight-week program, our coach provided different strategies to improve sleep, all related to the CBT-I principles. The personal coaching was invaluable as we could see this being challenging if we tried to do it independently. Each day we completed a check-in form detailing the quality and length of sleep from the night before and completed two or three lessons designed to educate us on sleep science principles. We enjoyed reading through these as they made sleep concepts easy to comprehend.

Although the plan is slightly intense, the app made it easy to complete the check-ins, message our coach, and stay motivated throughout the eight weeks. If you cannot go to an in-person clinic, this is a great way to take advantage of CBT-I treatment at home. However, it’s important to note that because you are working with a sleep coach and not a licensed therapist, this should not replace medical advice; rather, it should be a supplement to treatment or a first step to finding a treatment that works for you.

Free Trial:There’s a pay-what-you-can seven-day trial. Offers range from a free trial up to $29.Membership Required:YesTotal costs:$300 for the full eight-week plan (after the pay-what-you-can trial period)

Sleep Reset Review

Compare the Best Sleep Tracker AppsBest Sleep Tracker AppsSleep Tracking AppPricingOperating SystemApp Store RatingOuraBest TechnologyStarts at $299 for device; $6/month for premium membershipiOS, Android4.6/5 (App Store), 4.4/5 (Google Play)SleepWatchBest for Apple Watch$5/month or $40/yeariOS4.7/5CalmBest for Falling Asleep$15/month or $70/yeariOS, Android4.8/5 (App Store, 4.4/5 (Google Play)PillowBest for Extra Features$10/monthiOS4.4/5Sleep CycleMost Versatile$10/month or $40/yeariOS, Android4.7/5 (App Store), 4.3/5 (Google Play)Sleep ResetBest With CoachingUp to $29 for 1-week trial, then $300 for 8-week planiOS, Android4.8/5 (App Store), 4.3/5 (Google Play)Guide to Choosing a Sleep AppPrice:Sleep apps range from free to over $100 per month. It’s important to consider your budget and how often you are likely to use an app before purchasing.Platform:Some apps are for iOS or Android only, so make sure to check before deciding on a sleep app.Features:Consider what features and capabilities are most important to you. Are you most interested in tracking how long you sleep, or if you snore or talk at night? Or do you want resources to help you fall asleep? This will help narrow down what app is best for you.Equipment:Many apps can function without a wearable device, but others require an Apple Watch or other device to get the most out of the software. If you want to track heart rate or oxygen saturation, you will likely need an app that connects to a wearable device.Privacy policy:Amy Marschall, PsyD, clinical psychologist and subject matter expert, notes that “privacy is always a concern these days. Always read an app’s privacy policy before using it, especially sections about how they use your data and who they share it with.”Is a Sleep App Right For You?Sleep apps are not a replacement for medical care or a clinical sleep study. However, you can share results from a sleep app with your healthcare provider and work to develop a plan for better sleep.“If you’re having trouble sleeping, an app can help you track your sleep and identify variables that contribute to better sleep,” says Dr. Marschall. “You might notice you get better quality sleep when you go to bed at a certain time or that diet, caffeine, or alcohol intake impact your sleep quality, and make changes for better sleep.” Once you track your sleep for an extended period, you may be able to see common patterns.Frequently Asked QuestionsSleep apps can monitor your sleep using biometrics like heart rate, blood oxygen saturation, and respiratory rate, and use sound recordings or movement sensors to track how often you are restless throughout the night. They use this data to compile an easy-to-read analysis of how well you slept, and the different sleep stages. Sleep apps can also be used to help you relax before bed and fall asleep faster. They can be incredibly useful for people who want to know how many times they wake up during the night and why. AsHannah Owens, LMSW, suggests, “This awareness can help you develop healthier sleep hygiene habits.”There are many free or low-cost sleep-tracking apps available, and the paid options often provide a one-week free trial. Monthly fees generally range from $5 to $15.You don’t need a wearable device to use a sleep app, but many sleep-tracking apps function better with one. The most accurate sleep-tracking apps use data from your Apple Watch or another wearable device in order to include other metrics such as movement, heart rate, and more. A 2020 systematic review looking at the accuracy of estimating sleep onset with the use of wearable devices found that they do accurately measure sleep onset time compared to clinical sleep studies.With apps that do not use a wearable device, you must manually start a sleep session, which may be less precise.How We Tested and Reviewed Sleep AppsWe researched 13 sleep tracker apps available on multiple devices to find the best options. Our team tested 12 of these apps and provided us with testing insights. We included apps that had at least one of the following features: sounds or meditations to assist with falling asleep, tracking of sleep duration and quality, suggestions as to how to improve your sleep, and audio recording to identify disturbances throughout the night.8 Best Podcasts to Fall Asleep ToLuis Alvarez / Getty ImagesArticle SourcesVerywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Fino E, Mazzetti M.Monitoring healthy and disturbed sleep through smartphone applications: a review of experimental evidence.Sleep Breath. 2019;23(1):13-24. doi:10.1007/s11325-018-1661-3Guillodo E, Lemey C, Simonnet M, et al.Clinical applications of mobile health wearable–based sleep monitoring: Systematic review.JMIR MHealth UHealth. 2020;8(4):e10733. doi:10.2196/10733Altini M, Kinnunen H.The promise of sleep: A multi-sensor approach for accurate sleep stage detection using the Oura ring.Sensors (Basel). 2021;21(13):4302. doi:10.3390/s21134302Kuula L, Pesonen AK.Heart rate variability and Firstbeat method for detecting sleep stages in healthy young adults: Feasibility study.JMIR Mhealth Uhealth. 2021;9(2):e24704. doi:10.2196/24704Huberty J, Puzia ME, Larkey L, Vranceanu AM, Irwin MR.Can a meditation app help my sleep? A cross-sectional survey of Calm users.PLoS One. 2021;16(10):e0257518. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0257518Landsberg R, Friedman M, Ascher-Landsberg J.Treatment of hypoxemia in obstructive sleep apnea.Am J Rhinol. 2001;15(5):311-313.Worley SL.The extraordinary importance of sleep: The detrimental effects of inadequate sleep on health and public safety drive an explosion of sleep research.P T. 2018;43(12):758.Rossman J.Cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia: An effective and underutilized treatment for insomnia.Am J Lifestyle Med. 2019;13(6):544-547. doi:10.1177/1559827619867677Scott H, Lack L, Lovato N.A systematic review of the accuracy of sleep wearable devices for estimating sleep onset.Sleep Med Rev. 2020;49:101227. doi:10.1016/j.smrv.2019.101227

Compare the Best Sleep Tracker Apps

Best Sleep Tracker AppsSleep Tracking AppPricingOperating SystemApp Store RatingOuraBest TechnologyStarts at $299 for device; $6/month for premium membershipiOS, Android4.6/5 (App Store), 4.4/5 (Google Play)SleepWatchBest for Apple Watch$5/month or $40/yeariOS4.7/5CalmBest for Falling Asleep$15/month or $70/yeariOS, Android4.8/5 (App Store, 4.4/5 (Google Play)PillowBest for Extra Features$10/monthiOS4.4/5Sleep CycleMost Versatile$10/month or $40/yeariOS, Android4.7/5 (App Store), 4.3/5 (Google Play)Sleep ResetBest With CoachingUp to $29 for 1-week trial, then $300 for 8-week planiOS, Android4.8/5 (App Store), 4.3/5 (Google Play)Guide to Choosing a Sleep AppPrice:Sleep apps range from free to over $100 per month. It’s important to consider your budget and how often you are likely to use an app before purchasing.Platform:Some apps are for iOS or Android only, so make sure to check before deciding on a sleep app.Features:Consider what features and capabilities are most important to you. Are you most interested in tracking how long you sleep, or if you snore or talk at night? Or do you want resources to help you fall asleep? This will help narrow down what app is best for you.Equipment:Many apps can function without a wearable device, but others require an Apple Watch or other device to get the most out of the software. If you want to track heart rate or oxygen saturation, you will likely need an app that connects to a wearable device.Privacy policy:Amy Marschall, PsyD, clinical psychologist and subject matter expert, notes that “privacy is always a concern these days. Always read an app’s privacy policy before using it, especially sections about how they use your data and who they share it with.”Is a Sleep App Right For You?Sleep apps are not a replacement for medical care or a clinical sleep study. However, you can share results from a sleep app with your healthcare provider and work to develop a plan for better sleep.“If you’re having trouble sleeping, an app can help you track your sleep and identify variables that contribute to better sleep,” says Dr. Marschall. “You might notice you get better quality sleep when you go to bed at a certain time or that diet, caffeine, or alcohol intake impact your sleep quality, and make changes for better sleep.” Once you track your sleep for an extended period, you may be able to see common patterns.Frequently Asked QuestionsSleep apps can monitor your sleep using biometrics like heart rate, blood oxygen saturation, and respiratory rate, and use sound recordings or movement sensors to track how often you are restless throughout the night. They use this data to compile an easy-to-read analysis of how well you slept, and the different sleep stages. Sleep apps can also be used to help you relax before bed and fall asleep faster. They can be incredibly useful for people who want to know how many times they wake up during the night and why. AsHannah Owens, LMSW, suggests, “This awareness can help you develop healthier sleep hygiene habits.”There are many free or low-cost sleep-tracking apps available, and the paid options often provide a one-week free trial. Monthly fees generally range from $5 to $15.You don’t need a wearable device to use a sleep app, but many sleep-tracking apps function better with one. The most accurate sleep-tracking apps use data from your Apple Watch or another wearable device in order to include other metrics such as movement, heart rate, and more. A 2020 systematic review looking at the accuracy of estimating sleep onset with the use of wearable devices found that they do accurately measure sleep onset time compared to clinical sleep studies.With apps that do not use a wearable device, you must manually start a sleep session, which may be less precise.How We Tested and Reviewed Sleep AppsWe researched 13 sleep tracker apps available on multiple devices to find the best options. Our team tested 12 of these apps and provided us with testing insights. We included apps that had at least one of the following features: sounds or meditations to assist with falling asleep, tracking of sleep duration and quality, suggestions as to how to improve your sleep, and audio recording to identify disturbances throughout the night.8 Best Podcasts to Fall Asleep To

Guide to Choosing a Sleep App

Sleep apps are not a replacement for medical care or a clinical sleep study. However, you can share results from a sleep app with your healthcare provider and work to develop a plan for better sleep.

“If you’re having trouble sleeping, an app can help you track your sleep and identify variables that contribute to better sleep,” says Dr. Marschall. “You might notice you get better quality sleep when you go to bed at a certain time or that diet, caffeine, or alcohol intake impact your sleep quality, and make changes for better sleep.” Once you track your sleep for an extended period, you may be able to see common patterns.

Frequently Asked QuestionsSleep apps can monitor your sleep using biometrics like heart rate, blood oxygen saturation, and respiratory rate, and use sound recordings or movement sensors to track how often you are restless throughout the night. They use this data to compile an easy-to-read analysis of how well you slept, and the different sleep stages. Sleep apps can also be used to help you relax before bed and fall asleep faster. They can be incredibly useful for people who want to know how many times they wake up during the night and why. AsHannah Owens, LMSW, suggests, “This awareness can help you develop healthier sleep hygiene habits.”There are many free or low-cost sleep-tracking apps available, and the paid options often provide a one-week free trial. Monthly fees generally range from $5 to $15.You don’t need a wearable device to use a sleep app, but many sleep-tracking apps function better with one. The most accurate sleep-tracking apps use data from your Apple Watch or another wearable device in order to include other metrics such as movement, heart rate, and more. A 2020 systematic review looking at the accuracy of estimating sleep onset with the use of wearable devices found that they do accurately measure sleep onset time compared to clinical sleep studies.With apps that do not use a wearable device, you must manually start a sleep session, which may be less precise.

Sleep apps can monitor your sleep using biometrics like heart rate, blood oxygen saturation, and respiratory rate, and use sound recordings or movement sensors to track how often you are restless throughout the night. They use this data to compile an easy-to-read analysis of how well you slept, and the different sleep stages. Sleep apps can also be used to help you relax before bed and fall asleep faster. They can be incredibly useful for people who want to know how many times they wake up during the night and why. AsHannah Owens, LMSW, suggests, “This awareness can help you develop healthier sleep hygiene habits.”

There are many free or low-cost sleep-tracking apps available, and the paid options often provide a one-week free trial. Monthly fees generally range from $5 to $15.

You don’t need a wearable device to use a sleep app, but many sleep-tracking apps function better with one. The most accurate sleep-tracking apps use data from your Apple Watch or another wearable device in order to include other metrics such as movement, heart rate, and more. A 2020 systematic review looking at the accuracy of estimating sleep onset with the use of wearable devices found that they do accurately measure sleep onset time compared to clinical sleep studies.With apps that do not use a wearable device, you must manually start a sleep session, which may be less precise.

How We Tested and Reviewed Sleep Apps

We researched 13 sleep tracker apps available on multiple devices to find the best options. Our team tested 12 of these apps and provided us with testing insights. We included apps that had at least one of the following features: sounds or meditations to assist with falling asleep, tracking of sleep duration and quality, suggestions as to how to improve your sleep, and audio recording to identify disturbances throughout the night.

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Article SourcesVerywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Fino E, Mazzetti M.Monitoring healthy and disturbed sleep through smartphone applications: a review of experimental evidence.Sleep Breath. 2019;23(1):13-24. doi:10.1007/s11325-018-1661-3Guillodo E, Lemey C, Simonnet M, et al.Clinical applications of mobile health wearable–based sleep monitoring: Systematic review.JMIR MHealth UHealth. 2020;8(4):e10733. doi:10.2196/10733Altini M, Kinnunen H.The promise of sleep: A multi-sensor approach for accurate sleep stage detection using the Oura ring.Sensors (Basel). 2021;21(13):4302. doi:10.3390/s21134302Kuula L, Pesonen AK.Heart rate variability and Firstbeat method for detecting sleep stages in healthy young adults: Feasibility study.JMIR Mhealth Uhealth. 2021;9(2):e24704. doi:10.2196/24704Huberty J, Puzia ME, Larkey L, Vranceanu AM, Irwin MR.Can a meditation app help my sleep? A cross-sectional survey of Calm users.PLoS One. 2021;16(10):e0257518. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0257518Landsberg R, Friedman M, Ascher-Landsberg J.Treatment of hypoxemia in obstructive sleep apnea.Am J Rhinol. 2001;15(5):311-313.Worley SL.The extraordinary importance of sleep: The detrimental effects of inadequate sleep on health and public safety drive an explosion of sleep research.P T. 2018;43(12):758.Rossman J.Cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia: An effective and underutilized treatment for insomnia.Am J Lifestyle Med. 2019;13(6):544-547. doi:10.1177/1559827619867677Scott H, Lack L, Lovato N.A systematic review of the accuracy of sleep wearable devices for estimating sleep onset.Sleep Med Rev. 2020;49:101227. doi:10.1016/j.smrv.2019.101227

Article Sources

Verywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Fino E, Mazzetti M.Monitoring healthy and disturbed sleep through smartphone applications: a review of experimental evidence.Sleep Breath. 2019;23(1):13-24. doi:10.1007/s11325-018-1661-3Guillodo E, Lemey C, Simonnet M, et al.Clinical applications of mobile health wearable–based sleep monitoring: Systematic review.JMIR MHealth UHealth. 2020;8(4):e10733. doi:10.2196/10733Altini M, Kinnunen H.The promise of sleep: A multi-sensor approach for accurate sleep stage detection using the Oura ring.Sensors (Basel). 2021;21(13):4302. doi:10.3390/s21134302Kuula L, Pesonen AK.Heart rate variability and Firstbeat method for detecting sleep stages in healthy young adults: Feasibility study.JMIR Mhealth Uhealth. 2021;9(2):e24704. doi:10.2196/24704Huberty J, Puzia ME, Larkey L, Vranceanu AM, Irwin MR.Can a meditation app help my sleep? A cross-sectional survey of Calm users.PLoS One. 2021;16(10):e0257518. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0257518Landsberg R, Friedman M, Ascher-Landsberg J.Treatment of hypoxemia in obstructive sleep apnea.Am J Rhinol. 2001;15(5):311-313.Worley SL.The extraordinary importance of sleep: The detrimental effects of inadequate sleep on health and public safety drive an explosion of sleep research.P T. 2018;43(12):758.Rossman J.Cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia: An effective and underutilized treatment for insomnia.Am J Lifestyle Med. 2019;13(6):544-547. doi:10.1177/1559827619867677Scott H, Lack L, Lovato N.A systematic review of the accuracy of sleep wearable devices for estimating sleep onset.Sleep Med Rev. 2020;49:101227. doi:10.1016/j.smrv.2019.101227

Fino E, Mazzetti M.Monitoring healthy and disturbed sleep through smartphone applications: a review of experimental evidence.Sleep Breath. 2019;23(1):13-24. doi:10.1007/s11325-018-1661-3Guillodo E, Lemey C, Simonnet M, et al.Clinical applications of mobile health wearable–based sleep monitoring: Systematic review.JMIR MHealth UHealth. 2020;8(4):e10733. doi:10.2196/10733Altini M, Kinnunen H.The promise of sleep: A multi-sensor approach for accurate sleep stage detection using the Oura ring.Sensors (Basel). 2021;21(13):4302. doi:10.3390/s21134302Kuula L, Pesonen AK.Heart rate variability and Firstbeat method for detecting sleep stages in healthy young adults: Feasibility study.JMIR Mhealth Uhealth. 2021;9(2):e24704. doi:10.2196/24704Huberty J, Puzia ME, Larkey L, Vranceanu AM, Irwin MR.Can a meditation app help my sleep? A cross-sectional survey of Calm users.PLoS One. 2021;16(10):e0257518. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0257518Landsberg R, Friedman M, Ascher-Landsberg J.Treatment of hypoxemia in obstructive sleep apnea.Am J Rhinol. 2001;15(5):311-313.Worley SL.The extraordinary importance of sleep: The detrimental effects of inadequate sleep on health and public safety drive an explosion of sleep research.P T. 2018;43(12):758.Rossman J.Cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia: An effective and underutilized treatment for insomnia.Am J Lifestyle Med. 2019;13(6):544-547. doi:10.1177/1559827619867677Scott H, Lack L, Lovato N.A systematic review of the accuracy of sleep wearable devices for estimating sleep onset.Sleep Med Rev. 2020;49:101227. doi:10.1016/j.smrv.2019.101227

Fino E, Mazzetti M.Monitoring healthy and disturbed sleep through smartphone applications: a review of experimental evidence.Sleep Breath. 2019;23(1):13-24. doi:10.1007/s11325-018-1661-3

Guillodo E, Lemey C, Simonnet M, et al.Clinical applications of mobile health wearable–based sleep monitoring: Systematic review.JMIR MHealth UHealth. 2020;8(4):e10733. doi:10.2196/10733

Altini M, Kinnunen H.The promise of sleep: A multi-sensor approach for accurate sleep stage detection using the Oura ring.Sensors (Basel). 2021;21(13):4302. doi:10.3390/s21134302

Kuula L, Pesonen AK.Heart rate variability and Firstbeat method for detecting sleep stages in healthy young adults: Feasibility study.JMIR Mhealth Uhealth. 2021;9(2):e24704. doi:10.2196/24704

Huberty J, Puzia ME, Larkey L, Vranceanu AM, Irwin MR.Can a meditation app help my sleep? A cross-sectional survey of Calm users.PLoS One. 2021;16(10):e0257518. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0257518

Landsberg R, Friedman M, Ascher-Landsberg J.Treatment of hypoxemia in obstructive sleep apnea.Am J Rhinol. 2001;15(5):311-313.

Worley SL.The extraordinary importance of sleep: The detrimental effects of inadequate sleep on health and public safety drive an explosion of sleep research.P T. 2018;43(12):758.

Rossman J.Cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia: An effective and underutilized treatment for insomnia.Am J Lifestyle Med. 2019;13(6):544-547. doi:10.1177/1559827619867677

Scott H, Lack L, Lovato N.A systematic review of the accuracy of sleep wearable devices for estimating sleep onset.Sleep Med Rev. 2020;49:101227. doi:10.1016/j.smrv.2019.101227

Hannah Owens, LMSW

Amanda Tust

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