We reviewed 5 sleep gadgets. Which one is our #1 pick?

You’re tired. You’ve turned the lights down. And somehow, your brain is still going over tomorrow’s to-do list.

That’s when a simple wind-down routine can sound a lot more appealing than another complicated bedtime ritual.

We reviewed five gadgets that take different approaches to winding down. Some use sound or massage. Others use light or gentle electrical stimulation.

We compared their published features, setup, and recommended use with one question in mind. Which would be easiest to make part of an evening routine?

1. Pulsetto | Our #1 pick

A hands-free addition to your bedtime routine

What it is

Pulsetto is a neckband that delivers gentle electrical stimulation to both sides of the neck. You can adjust the intensity and choose from app programs including Sleep, Stress, and Focus.

What using it is like

Apply the gel, put the neckband on, and choose a program in the app. The 10-minute Sleep program gives you a dedicated window to wind down. The Stress program is a separate 4-minute session.

What stood out
Once the session starts, your hands are free. You can read a few pages or put on something quiet to listen to.

What to consider
It requires gel and the app. Follow Pulsetto’s safety instructions, including restrictions for people with a pacemaker or another active electronic implant.

2. Sensate

Gentle vibration paired with sound

What it is

A small device that rests on your chest and vibrates while the app plays a soundtrack.

What using it is like

Set it on your chest, choose a track, and settle in. If you already like listening to calming audio in the evening, Sensate adds a gentle vibration you can feel as you listen.

What stood out
Sound is part of the session from the start.

What to consider
It’s a better fit for a quiet pause than for moving around during your routine.

3. Therabody SmartGoggles

A blackout mask with heat and massage

What it is

Therabody’s second-generation SmartGoggles combine a blackout eye mask with heat, vibration, and compression massage around the eyes and temples.

What using it is like

Put the mask on, close your eyes, and choose a mode. You can adjust the heat and vibration depending on what feels comfortable.

What stood out
It combines a blackout mask and an eye massage in one device.

What to consider
The mask covers your eyes, so you’ll want to set aside time to sit back with it.

4. MitoPRO X 300 red light panel

A tabletop option you can use without wearing anything

What it is

A compact panel that emits red and near-infrared light. The 300 model comes with a tabletop stand and has controls on the panel itself.

What using it is like

Set the panel on a stable surface, choose a mode, and position yourself at the distance recommended in the instructions.

What stood out
There’s nothing to strap on or hold during a session.

What to consider
You’ll need a surface for the panel and room to position yourself in front of it.

5. Somnee Smart Sleep Headband

A dedicated pre-bed session with more setup

What it is

A headband that uses sensors to read brain activity and delivers personalized electrical stimulation during a 15-minute session.

What using it is like

Fit the headband, start the session, and sit back for a set amount of time before bed. It’s geared toward someone who likes a structured routine and is comfortable with a more technical setup.

What stood out
The session has a clear start and finish, with stimulation tailored using the headband’s sensors.

What to consider
The headband requires a Somnee membership and replacement electrodes.

Final word

If you’re looking for something you can work into the evening you already have, Pulsetto is our #1 pick.

The hands-free design, adjustable intensity, and dedicated Sleep program are what put it first for us. You can start a session while you read a few pages or listen to something quiet before bed.

Try Pulsetto for 30 days

Give Pulsetto a place in your bedtime routine. Your purchase is backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re unhappy with your purchase, request a return within 30 days of delivery. Original packaging is required, and return shipping costs may apply.

• Up to 50% off
• Sleep, Stress, and Focus programs included in the free app.
• Free worldwide shipping to eligible destinations.
• 2-year warranty.
• Rated 4.1 out of 5 on Trustpilot.
• Start with a 4-minute Stress session.
• Ben Greenfield has talked about using Pulsetto on his podcast, and Peter Diamandis has featured it in his morning routine.

Pulsetto is a general wellness product intended to support a healthy lifestyle. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition.