Sleep-tracking devices have limits, experts warn users

Wearable devices can provide helpful data, but shouldn't be viewed as definitive measures of sleep health

Jan. 28, 2026 at 9:39am

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As the sleep-tracking device market continues to grow, experts caution that the data from these wearables should be viewed as trends over time rather than precise measurements. While the devices can accurately detect when someone is asleep, they have limitations in determining sleep stages. Experts advise users not to get overly fixated on granular sleep metrics and instead focus on developing good "sleep hygiene" habits. However, the devices can still be useful in highlighting patterns and identifying issues with one's biological clock.

Why it matters

With the sleep-tracking device market expected to double in revenue by 2030, it's important for users to understand the limitations of the technology and not rely too heavily on the data. Overanalyzing sleep metrics can lead to anxiety and an unhealthy fixation, a condition known as "orthosomnia." Experts say the devices should complement, not replace, professional medical advice when it comes to addressing sleep problems.

The details

Major sleep-tracking device brands have developed highly accurate algorithms for determining when someone is asleep, but they are less reliable for estimating sleep stages like REM and non-REM sleep. Experts say in-lab sleep studies are still the best way to definitively measure those sleep components. Doctors also caution patients against getting too focused on granular sleep data points, as individual sleep needs vary based on factors like age and genetics. Instead, the devices are most helpful for identifying overall trends and patterns that can inform better sleep habits.

  • The U.S. sleep-tracking devices market generated about $5 billion in revenue in 2023.
  • The sleep-tracking devices market is expected to double in revenue by 2030, according to market research firm Grand View Research.

The players

Kate Stoye

An Atlanta-area middle school teacher who uses an Oura Ring sleep-tracking device and has made lifestyle changes based on the data, such as giving up alcohol.

Dr. Chantale Branson

A neurologist and professor at the Morehouse School of Medicine who frequently sees patients fixated on granular sleep data from their wearable devices.

Dr. Daniel Forger

A professor who takes a more favorable view of sleep-tracking devices, saying they can help keep the overlooked issue of sleep health in focus.

Mai Barreneche

An advertising professional in New York City who became "obsessed" with her nightly sleep scores from an Oura Ring, leading to anxiety, before ultimately deciding to stop wearing the device.

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What they’re saying

“If you really want to know definitively how much non-REM sleep you're having versus REM sleep, that's where the in-lab studies really excel.”

— Dr. Daniel Forger, Professor

“We would have believed them with or without the device and worked on trying to figure out why they can't sleep — and that is what the wearables do not do.”

— Dr. Chantale Branson, Neurologist and Professor

“Seeing if your biological clock is in sync is a huge benefit because even if you're giving yourself the right amount of time, if you're sleeping at the wrong times, the sleep won't be as efficient.”

— Dr. Daniel Forger, Professor

“I don't see much reason to drink if I know that it's going to affect how I feel.”

— Kate Stoye, Middle School Teacher

“I remember I would go to bed thinking about the score I was going to get in the morning.”

— Mai Barreneche, Advertising Professional

What’s next

Emerging research suggests sleep-tracking devices could one day be designed to help detect infections before symptoms appear and flag sleep pattern changes that may signal the onset of depression or an increased risk of relapse.

The takeaway

While sleep-tracking devices can provide helpful data and encourage better sleep habits, experts caution users not to become overly fixated on the granular metrics. The devices should be viewed as tools to identify trends over time, not definitive measures of one's sleep health. Maintaining good "sleep hygiene" is more important than chasing a perfect sleep score.