![Our pick for the best sleep tracker that can also track workouts, the Whoop 4.0, displayed in front of a blue background.](https://cdn.thewirecutter.com/wp-content/media/2023/11/sleeptrackingwearables-2048px-4251.jpg?auto=webp&quality=75&width=1024)
Who is he talking to : This model is a good choice for people who want to track both their sleep and workouts and don’t mind entering a lot of data into the app.
How it works: This screenless, discreet woven tracking bracelet uses photoplethysmography (PPG, used to detect blood volume levels) and LEDs to illuminate your skin. The Whoop device then translates differences in light (absorption and reflection) into changes in blood flow, which allows heart rate and heart rate variability to be calculated. The Whoop Strap also uses an accelerometer to track movement. The Whoop device’s accelerometer, PPG and “brand algorithm” allow the tracker to determine your sleep stages.
It offers accurate sleep and heart rate data. The Whoop 4.0’s heart rate tracking is closely aligned with the heart rate sensor we used for comparison, but not as closely as the Oura Ring’s.
Our testers reported that the Whoop 4.0 was also accurate as a sleep tracker. “I’ve tried almost every fitness machine,” said our most physically active tester. “Whoop was the best at sleep tracking.” Compared to other trackers, the Whoop device detected the exact time our tester went to bed and woke up more frequently. This same tester noted that one morning, even though she had eight hours of sleep according to her clock, she still felt tired. The Whoop app confirmed that she was lacking REM sleep and needed more recovery.
In a cry validation studythe device correctly captured the time spent in the different stages 64% of the time, compared to a polysomnography test.
It offers in-depth activity and recovery tracking. The Whoop system tracks more fitness-related metrics than the Oura Ring. Each morning you receive a “recovery score,” which aims to show how ready you are to take on another day or another workout. Whoop asks you to directly enter your exercise sessions, such as cycling or jogging; it then measures the tension exerted by the activity, via heart rate detection, to formulate recommendations, often in minute detail. For example, the app might tell you that you were in “Zone 3” during a workout, meaning you reached 70-80% of your maximum heart rate. Our testers said such data helped them know, in real time, whether they were making progress in their fitness or if they were overdoing it.
It is comfortable and versatile to wear. Our testers found the lightweight, woven Whoop bracelet to be comfortable to wear all day and while sleeping. (In fact, I often forgot to take it off before jumping in the shower.) While not as discreet as the Oura Ring, the Whoop Strap blends into outfits more easily than the Apple Watch Series 8, more voluminous. Some testers liked that they could wear it on their biceps during workouts while collecting data.
Flaws but not dealbreakers
It takes a lot of work. The Whoop app requires you to keep a daily log on a multitude of factors, including how much alcohol or caffeine you consumed or what type of activity you do (jogging or cycling, for example). You cannot unsubscribe; The Whoop app will not process your daily scores until you do so. Some of our testers found that requiring a daily log kept them up to date with their habits and helped the Whoop system provide better analytics. But others found it expensive and preferred the Oura Ring’s more passive interface.
It’s not particularly elegant. Even though the Whoop band comes in many colors and patterns, it looks more like an athletic band than a stylish accessory.
The interface can be intimidating. The Whoop app’s interface isn’t as accessible as other sleep trackers we’ve tested, and its language takes some getting used to. Its application focuses more on performance and recovery, rather than energy and rest, and is peppered with terms such as “stress”, “effort” and “impact analysis”, so its use can seem more like a personal trainer than an encouragement. gym buddy.
It’s also harder to access tips in the Whoop app than in the Oura app. For example, if your REM and deep sleep make up less than 35% of your total time in bed, the app suggests you consult a Whoop Coach (powered by AI) to learn how to improve instead of freely offering suggestions .
It offers the most expensive subscription plan. Whoop doesn’t charge for its bracelet, but to use it you must sign up for an annual subscription of $239 (or $399 for two years).
- Subscription cost: $239 (one year), $399 (two years)
- Battery life: up to five days
- Water resistance: water resistant for up to two hours in up to 32 feet of water
- Guarantee: lifetime
- Confidentiality: Whoop never sells your personal data. All data captured in the device and app is encrypted. For more details, read more on the Whoop Privacy Policy.