Meditation is a personal practice that one does to hone in on their mindfulness. It trains your attention and awareness to achieve a certain mentality that will allow you to be emotionally calm and clear. So for today, we will be taking a closer look at our Muse S review and see if this is the wearable to help you with your meditation.
Unlike its predecessor, the Muse and the Muse 2, the S in the Muse S stands for sleep. Meaning, this particular wearable has now sleep-tracking sensors and functions that aim to help you sleep better at night. However, the guided meditations you receive from the Muse S are still pretty great.
Personally, it’s quite surprising, albeit impressive, that we have advanced into an age wherein technology now plays a hand in making your meditation sessions better. So let’s see how the Muse S fairs well and if it really does the job in making us more mindful. Read on to find out more about our Muse S review.
As you might already know, the Muse S headband is a brain-sensing headband that offers guidance for your meditation sessions as well as acting as a sleep tracker at night. The Muse S uses an electroencephalogram (EEG) and a number of other sensors to give you feedback regarding your meditation.
The Muse S is designed as a device that allows you to have an idea of how your meditations go and help you further improve them so you can have a more effective session. Moreover, this headband also efficiently monitors your sleeping patterns at night.
All you have to do is wrap the wearable around your head during the day before starting your meditations or overnight as you go to bed.
What does the Muse S do exactly?
Unlike an actual human coach that personally guides you through your meditations, the Muse S can sense what your brain is actually doing and will tell you about it as it’s happening. Using a pair of headphones or earphones is ideal so you can listen to audio cues in real-time regarding feedback from your meditation.
When it comes to sleep tracking, the Muse S will monitor your brain activity, your movements, heart rate, and body temperature through your skin overnight.
Once the Muse S has collected all that data from your sleeping patterns and meditation sessions, it will base everything from the collected information to continuously guide you through meditation sessions during the day along with suggestions to improve, then at night, it will provide you with detailed sleep monitoring.
How the Muse S feels like when in use.
While the headband itself feels really comfortable to wear due to the soft fabric material, it does take some time to get used to. After all, it’s not every day you wrap something around your forehead. However, it can be a rather unique alternative for anyone who might be uncomfortable with wearing a watch while they sleep.
Although personally, wearing a watch is much more preferable and I find it a lot more unobstructive. But to each their own.
In addition, the Muse S also connects to the Muse app installed on your phone via Bluetooth. You can use this to listen to soothing soundscapes or bedtime stories that can help ease you off to sleep.
Once morning arrives, you will find yourself waking to the Muse S already finished collecting the data from your sleeping patterns and habits, and is now readily available to be viewed on the dedicated application on your phone. The data itself is an extremely detailed breakdown of your overall sleep quality.
Features & Specifications
Product Dimensions: 2.99 x 6.34 x 7.68 inches
Manufacturer / Brand: Muse.
Sensor Type: Wearable.
Item Weight: 12.8 ounces.
Material: Fabric.
Wireless Communication Standard: Bluetooth
Connectivity: Bluetooth
Compatible Devices: Apple iOS 11 and higher (integrates with HealthKit sleep and meditation), Android 5 or higher, Huawei devices NOT supported.
Battery: 10 hours and uses Lithium Ion.
Colors: Grey.
Extra Special Features: Sleep (EEG + PPG + Accelerometer), Mind (EEG), Heart (PPG + Pulse Oximetry), Body (Accelerometer), and Breath (PPG + Gyroscope).
Come check out Muse’s preview of the Muse S in their Youtube channel below.
From being your aid to having better meditation sessions to capable sleep tracking abilities, let’s dive into the things we love about the Muse S.
Meditation Aiding
While the Muse S obviously wants to be a balance between achieving better meditation and sleeping habits, its meditation aid capabilities are where it truly shines the most.
As we live in such stressful times in the midst of an ongoing pandemic, it can actually be quite helpful to start developing and practising your mindfulness to ease ourselves from any stress. Staying calm and relaxed through meditation is a great way to do that.
And that’s what the Muse S is exactly for. It’s perfect for beginners who want to dip their toes in meditation without needing a human coach since we are all recommended to practice social distancing.
Moreover, the audio cues you receive during your meditating sessions are really handy in letting you have an idea of what your brain is going through at the moment. If the Muse S is sensing that your brain is particularly more active or stressed, it will send you the appropriate audio cues such as roaring thunder and waves or strong gusts of wind.
But if your brain is on the calmer side, you’ll get more soothing and tranquil sounds to accompany your current state. This way, you will get an idea of what works in your meditation sessions and what you need to adjust or change in order to avoid any stressful activity in your brain.
Sleep Tracking Features
Admittedly, the sleep tracking capabilities of the Muse S are not entirely too impressive. It’s something we have already seen in previous wearables like fitness trackers and smartwatches. But it’s still a great addition and something I welcome to an already terrific device that promotes a more mindful lifestyle.
What I did like with its sleep monitoring features is how it also uses the appropriate audio to help you doze off. As someone who struggles with sleeping regularly, this is something I really appreciate. You can choose between soothing and tranquil soundscapes or having bedtime stories told to you in a gentle manner.
Then in the morning, you can check the app to view the detailed results of your overall sleep quality and patterns. One thing to keep in mind though, the app does use a lot of your phone’s battery, so keeping it plugged in is highly recommended.
Design & Comfortability
When it comes to the comfort of use, you’ll have no worries with the Muse S. Unlike its predecessors, the Muse S was able to take away all the flaws the previous models had in terms of design and was able to perfect it in this particular unit.
The headband itself is made of really soft fabric and feels light and comfortable to wear all around. It will still take some time getting used to but once you’re there, it will just feel natural. The Muse S is also washable, just make sure to take out the removable pod that houses the battery before throwing it into the laundry.
Our Least Favorite Things
As for all products that we review, we are bound to find some things that we are not particularly fond of with the Muse S. So here are some of them.
It Still Uses A Micro-USB For Charging
At this time and age, who even uses micro-USBs anymore? People and other companies are now moving to use USB-C. So it was pretty disappointing to find that the Muse S still uses a micro-USB for charging. Especially now that this type of USB port is slowly becoming extinct.
It’s Fairly Expensive
Money might not be an object for some of you but this is still a pretty expensive piece of technology in my personal opinion. If you don’t mind spending a few hundred dollars on a brain-sensing headband, then by all means.
But I feel like you can get cheaper alternatives like a dedicated fitness tracker or smartwatch for improving your wellness.
In A Nutshell
Not that we have broken down what we loved and disliked about the Muse S, here’s a narrowed down list of the good and the bad with this particular brain-sensing headband.
Pros
Great wellness tools to increase one’s mindfulness
Impressive mediation guides during the day.
Helps you relax and get to sleep at night via relaxing soundscapes and bedtime stories.
Provides an in-depth breakdown of your sleep quality and stats.
Unique design.
Cons
The design can take some time getting used to especially if you’re wearing it to sleep.
Expensive.
Still uses a micro-USB for charging.
Final Verdict
Meditation is not for everyone. Some people are into it. Some are not. But if you’re someone who is willing to spend a few hundred bucks on a device that will help you increase your mindfulness and wellness, then this is a device you might want to consider.
Plus, the sleep tracking features on this wearable are not too bad either. As long as you don’t mind wearing a headband going to sleep.
Do you already own the Muse S? Or still planning and pondering on it? Feel free to share any of your insights, experiences, or suggestions in the comments section below. I would love to hear your thoughts about our Muse S review!
Affiliate Disclosure: I am grateful to be of service and to bring you content free of charge. In order to do this, please note that when you click links and purchase items, in most cases I receive referral commissions. Eventually, I may earn enough to buy a beer or two.
A good night’s rest after an incredibly long day is something every person on this planet needs. But sometimes, it can be terribly hard to get that good sleep. Some days, you don’t even get any shut-eye at all. But what exactly causes the good nights and the sleepless nights? One way to find that out is through the best sleep trackers 2021.
Overview
Most of you might not know, but we actually spend the third of our lives asleep. However, sleeping in itself can be quite a mystery. Questions like, how do we sleep, why do we sleep, what happens during our sleep, tend to pop out now and then.
Several years ago, we had very limited tools that can accurately track our sleeping patterns at night. Not to mention, the concept of tracking our sleep wasn’t so popular either. We just wake up either feeling refreshed and energized or terribly tired and in desperate need of a caffeine boost to perk us up.
The funny thing was, we were okay with it and it didn’t matter to us much if we had trouble sleeping at night. We just went with it and started our days like it was nothing.
But thanks to our ever-advancing technology, sleep trackers have improved vastly in terms of the features it has and its built-in sensors in the most recent years.
If you’re unfamiliar with the concept of a sleep tracker, don’t worry! I’ll be giving you a thorough explanation of what a sleep tracker is, its benefits, why you need them, as well as our top recommendations and a quick buyer’s guide on what to look for in a sleep tracker all in this article.
So if you’re itching to find what a sleep tracker is all about, just read on to know more.
What is a sleep tracker?
Essentially, a sleep tracker is a device that can help you gain insight and information regarding your sleeping habits throughout the night.
It can provide you with significant data regarding your sleeping habits and patterns, the duration as well as the quality of your overall sleep, and the stages you go through by measuring things based on your heart rate, respiration rate, and movement as you sleep.
These trackers have sensors built-in that will help gather this specific information or data throughout the different cycles and stages of your sleep at night. You will be able to check your patterns whenever you’re in light, deep, and REM sleep.
Also, some more advanced sleep trackers in the market can monitor your snoring and other sounds you might be producing through the use of smart listening technology. Some may also include features that can detect ambient noise happening around you, air quality, your room temperature, light levels, and so much more.
Moreover, sleep trackers can also do a plethora of other things than just tracking your sleeping patterns. With technology highly advancing every single day, it’s not surprising that sleep trackers are trying to do the most for us now too.
Now, aside from patterns, sleep trackers can also provide us with very detailed stats and analytics about the quality of our sleep. Certain sleep trackers can record your data and save it in a dedicated app that you can access at any time.
In addition, these sleep trackers are also built in a way that can provide maximum comfort during your sleep. Some are designed as wearables around your wrist, and some are designed as sleep tracking pads or sensor strips that you can place underneath or on top of your mattress.
What are the benefits of a sleep tracker?
Sleep trackers come in with a lot of benefits and features that can be very helpful to someone who wants to find out more regarding how they are during their deep slumbers or the lack thereof.
As I have previously mentioned, sleep trackers are made to monitor your sleeping patterns, record the data, then provide you with significant and detailed analytics regarding the quality of your sleep.
So how does it help you?
The answer is simple. With knowledge comes power. And that particular saying is actually true. When you have the information regarding your sleeping habits and patterns, then that’s when you can start modifying and fixing it to further improve your sleep at night.
With such helpful data in your hands, you will know where and when to start changing certain habits that can help you sleep better. You will be able to point out what is causing you to sleep terribly at night, and more importantly, you can have an idea of whether it is time to visit a specialist to get the appropriate help and medicine you need.
Personally, I have always been someone who has had trouble sleeping at night regularly. So having a sleep tracker on hand became really helpful and useful in times of need. Being able to see my stats, I was able to pinpoint the things I need to change in my sleeping habits as well as my lifestyle to get my sleeping on track.
So if you’re someone like me and you find yourself having difficulty getting some decent shut-eye, perhaps it’s time to look into some sleep trackers and see if it will work for you.
Who needs sleep trackers?
Throughout recent years, sleep trackers have gained a lot of popularity. Especially within people who find themselves having trouble sleeping and would like to find out more about its causes.
Usually, when a certain product is released, it’s targeted at a particular market or audience. But the good thing about sleep trackers is that anyone can use them. Of course, people who want to have more insight into their sleeping habits or their health, in general, would be more inclined to invest in these devices.
Aside from that, people who don’t like or are simply wear of having to go through the formal process of medical examinations can also benefit from sleep trackers as these devices measure your sleeping analytics and statistics indirectly.
Meaning, sleep trackers rely on monitoring your physical signals during sleep which is a lot easier to detect unlike in medical examinations where they need to monitor your brain activity and eye movement. However, do keep in mind that sleep trackers are not meant to replace your regular checkups with your doctor.
They’re just a useful device to keep in handy for your sleep data so you don’t have to constantly check in with a specialist if there is no immediate concern.
All in all, it doesn’t matter whether you’re a fitness and wellness enthusiast, or a health nut, or just the average person who deals with sleep issues from time to time. You and anyone else in this world can definitely benefit a lot from using the best sleep trackers this 2021.
Our Top Recommendations
For this list, I was able to do some thorough research on the best sleep trackers of 2021 that are available today. Throughout my research, I found that these listed products will give you the best insight and information regarding your sleep and how you can make it better if you have been having trouble with getting your night’s rest.
1. Fitbit Sense
Overview
When it comes to fitness and wellness, Fitbit is probably the brand to go to. It comes as no surprise that all the best fitness trackers in the market are under Fitbit and the Sense is just a primary example of that.
If you’re looking for an all-in-one device that not only can track your sleep throughout the night, but also monitor your stress levels, then this is the sleep tracker you’re looking for.
Equipped with features that rival the likes of the Apple Watch Series and Samsung’s Galaxy Watches, the Fitbit Sense is packed with a plethora of useful tools that can help you improve your health and your overall lifestyle.
Like all of Fitbit’s products, the Sense also comes in with the basic features we all come to know and love plus a lot more additions and upgrades that can be pretty useful for monitoring our health.
Such features include an EDA scan app that monitors and measures your stress levels and tell you how to keep them under control, provide blood oxygen level readings, body temperature measurement, sleep monitoring, and as well as an FDA-cleared electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG).
As for sleep tracking, the Fitbit Sense helps in measuring your blood oxygen levels overnight as well as your body temperature and can actually spot any signs of potential sleep disorders such as sleep apnea.
In addition, once a potential problem has been detected, the Fitbit app can help you make a report which you can share with your doctor.
Features & Specifications
Product Dimensions: 1.59 x 1.59 x 0.49 inches
Manufacturer / Brand: Fitbit
Sensor Type: Wearable
Item Weight: 1.06 ounces
Material: Silicone.
Wireless Communication Standard: Bluetooth
Connectivity: GPS
Compatible Devices: Android, iOS
Battery: 1 Lithium Polymer batteries required. Can last up to 6+ days depending on usage.
Colors: Black, Carbon, Graphite. (bands are interchangeable for different other colors)
Extra Special Features: Weather Reports, Sleep Monitor, Reminders, Voice Assistant, Alexa, Phone, GPS, Heart Rate Monitor, etc.
Now if you’re an athlete or someone who loves to run and would like to be more mindful about your sleeping patterns and other health necessities, the Polar M430 is your best bet.
This wearable was designed specifically for runners and athletes in mind. But that’s not to say that non-sporty folks can’t use this particular tracker.
The Polar M430 is equipped with a built-in GPS that can help monitor and track your stats a lot more accurately as well as 24/7 health and activity tracking. This means that this wearable will continuously monitor your heart rate and it will also detect if you have fallen asleep based on your movements.
When it comes to sleep tracking, the Polar M430 doesn’t lag either. The Polar Sleep Plus technology in this device will analyze your sleeping habits, the duration of your sleep, and its overall quality so you will have an idea of how you can optimize your sleeping experience.
Not to mention, the Polar M430 can also point out if there were any disturbances or interruptions during your sleep and gives you a description of how well your sleep was.
So regardless if you’re an athlete or someone who just wants more insight about their sleeping habits, the Polar M430 definitely has a lot of fitness and wellness tools tool to offer that you can benefit from and take advantage of so you can further improve your lifestyle.
Features & Specifications
Product Dimensions: 9.65 x 1.5 x 0.47 inches
Manufacturer / Brand: Polar
Sensor Type: Wearable.
Item Weight: 0.2 kilograms
Material: Synthetic.
Wireless Communication Standard: Custome USB cable and Bluetooth.
Connectivity: GPS
Compatible Devices: Android and iOS.
Battery: 1 Lithium Polymer batteries required. Can last up to 5-14 days depending on usage.
Colors: Black.
Extra Special Features: Running program, running index, 24/7 heart rate monitoring, activity guide, fitness test, training and activity benefits, smart calories, training load, recovery status, and sleep plus technology.
Pros
Amazing sleep tracking features.
Great for runners and athletes who are goal-driven as well as the casual folk.
Integrated GPS for better health and fitness tracking accuracy.
Plethora of fitness and wellness features that anyone can use.
Unlike the first two devices mentioned in this list that you can wear around your wrist, the Wellue O2 Ring is a pulse oximeter you slip on your finger like a ring. Meaning, this device will measure the oxygen saturation in your blood while you sleep overnight.
Not only that, but it will also continuously monitor and track your heart rate and movements apart from pulse oximetry. This medical-grade oxygen monitor will helpfully alert you and send you gentle vibrations whenever it detects low oxygen levels or abnormal heart rates.
If you’re unaware, pulse oximetry can actually help identify potential sleeping disorders in a person such as sleep apnea.
This wearable can work both as a standalone device as it has its own built-in storage memory and an OLED touchscreen, then you can also sync this with the ViHealth app.
The ViHealth app will offer both real-time displays, as well as downloadable, detailed reports and analytics of your nightly, weekly, or long-term sleep data which you can opt to share with your doctor.
Additionally, the Wellue O2 Ring also works effectively with on-the-spot measurements or readings of your oxygen saturation levels and can also detect an array of potential problems like asthma, flu, and even symptoms of COVID-19.
Features & Specifications
Product Dimensions: 4.02 x 3.7 x 2.99 inches
Manufacturer / Brand: Viatomtech / Wellue
Sensor Type: Wearable
Item Weight: 4.2 ounces
Material: N/A
Wireless Communication Standard: Bluetooth
Connectivity: Bluetooth
Compatible Devices: Smartphones and desktops.
Battery: 1 Lithium Polymer batteries required. Can last up to 16 hours in a single charge.
Colors: Gray / Blue.
Extra Special Features: Overnight tracking, vibrating alarm, abnormal alerts, free apps for Android and iOS as well as desktops and laptops, built-in memory storage.
Pros
Unique design that will appeal to people who don’t want to wear a watch to sleep.
A simple, beginner-friendly product without too many complicated features.
Ergonomic.
Cons
Only focuss on heart rate and oxygen saturation levels.
Another sleep tracker in this list that’s built for athletes in mind is the Polar Vantage V2. This particular wearable is a multi-sports wristwatch that has integrated GPS to track your activities and health a lot more accurately.
If you’re a dedicated athlete or fitness enthusiast, you must already know that recovery is one of the most important things needed for you to get back on your feet and further improve your performance after an intense training session.
This is where the Polar Vantage V2 shines. This wearable has two distinct sleep tracker tools that will help you optimize your recovery: Recovery Pro and Nightly Recharge. So what’s the difference between the two? Let’s find out.
Recovery Pro measures and focuses on your sleep quality, your training load, stress levels, mental health, and the results of subjective questions. This helpful tool will also suggest ways for you to optimize and tweak your training goals and plans to get that right balance between your training and recovery.
Meanwhile, Nightly Recharge makes use of a combination of your sleep quality data as well as your automatic nervous system or better known as ANS.
This way, the ANS charge will look at how well your entire nervous system has calmed down during the first hour of your sleep. This will be based on factors such as heart rate, heart rate variability, and breathing rates.
Overall, the two scores you get from these sleep tracking tools will be compared to your baseline, and then the Polar Vantage V2 will use this information and results to give you a personalized recommendation regarding your exercise, sleep, and how to regulate your energy levels.
Features & Specifications
Product Dimensions: 1.85 x 1.85 x 0.51 inches
Manufacturer / Brand: Polar
Sensor Type: Wearable
Item Weight: 1.8 ounces
Material: Silicone and aluminum.
Wireless Communication Standard: Bluetooth
Connectivity: GPS
Compatible Devices: iOS and Android.
Battery: 1 Lithium Metal batteries required.
Colors: Black, grey, lime, and green. (bands can be customized and are interchangeable)
Extra Special Features: Advanced wrist-based heart rate, ultra-long battery life & built-in GPS, Training Load Pro and Recovery Pro, Running and cycling performance tests, Leg recovery test, Nightly Recharge and Sleep Tracking, FitSpark Daily Training Guide, music controls, weather, and phone notifications.
Pros
Great fitness tracking and recovery insights.
Comfortable and lightweight around the wrist.
Can easily connect with online sports communities for road running, swimming, cycling, cardio, triathlon (MyFitnessPal, Endomondo, Nike+ Run Club, Strava, TrainingPeaks, Adidas Running by Runtastic etc.)
If you’re the type who doesn’t like wearing anything around your wrists or fingers as you go to bed then the Withings Sleep Tracking Pad might be the one for you.
The Withings Sleep Tracking Pad is a fuss-free pad you can just slip under your mattress and it will automatically keep track of your sleeping quality, habits, and patterns overnight. This means you can just climb into bed and not have to worry about wearing anything like watches or rings for a sleep tracker.
Additionally, the Withings Sleep Tracking Pad also monitors a variety of other statistics as well. This includes your heart rate, your sleep stages or phases, the duration of your sleep, and if you snore during your sleep and how long did you snore.
This sleep tracking pad is great for anyone who wants an unobtrusive sleep tracker that they can just leave under their mattress overnight then check their sleep data in the morning in a dedicated easy-to-use application.
For those of you who don’t know, the Muse S headband is a brain-sensing sleep-tracking headband you wrap around your head overnight as you go to bed. This particular sleep tracker monitors brain activity, your movements, heart rate, and body temperature through your skin.
After collecting all that data, the Muse S will base everything from the collected information to guide you through meditation sessions during the day, then at night, it will provide you with detailed sleep tracking.
The headband itself feels comfortable to wear and can be a unique alternative for anyone who is uncomfortable with wearing a watch while they sleep. The Muse S also connects to the Muse app installed in your phone via Bluetooth and will ease you off to sleep through relaxing soundscapes and bedtime stories to help you doze off.
Once morning comes, you will find that the Muse S has collected the data from your sleeping patterns and habits and is now readily available to be viewed on the dedicated application on your phone. The data itself is an extremely detailed breakdown of your overall sleep quality.
Features & Specifications
Product Dimensions: 2.99 x 6.34 x 7.68 inches
Manufacturer / Brand: Muse
Sensor Type: Wearable
Item Weight: 12.8 ounces
Material: Fabric
Wireless Communication Standard: Bluetooth
Connectivity: Bluetooth
Compatible Devices: Apple iOS 11 and higher (integrates with HealthKit sleep and meditation), Android 5 or higher, Huawei devices NOT supported.
Battery: 10 hours and uses Lithium Ion.
Colors: Grey.
Extra Special Features: Sleep (EEG + PPG + Accelerometer), Mind (EEG), Heart (PPG + Pulse Oximetry), Body (Accelerometer), and Breath (PPG + Gyroscope).
Now that you have finished reading our top picks for the best sleep trackers 2021, here are some quick shopping tips and things you need to consider when looking for a sleep tracker before making any final purchases.
Sleep Detection Accuracy
One of the main things you need to research about particular sleep trackers is their accuracy when it comes to detecting your nocturnal activity during your sleep. Every manufacturer and brand out there has their own unique technology built into their devices that helps them track and monitor your sleeping patterns.
So it’s up to you to find out if a certain sleep tracker is accurate enough or not. One way to know this is if the tracker detects instantly whether you’re sleeping or fully awake.
The Data Quality It Provides
Another thing you need to focus on when choosing sleep trackers is the quality of data it provides you. How detailed do you want the resulting information to be? Do you want a full breakdown of your nocturnal activity? Do you want it to monitor your heart rate as well as your breathing and movements?
These are the questions you need to ask yourself and answer so you know which sleep tracker will fit your criteria. Additionally, it also helps a lot if the data the sleep tracker you have chosen is easy to read and understand.
Comfort Of Use
When it comes to sleep trackers, there’s a variety of types you will come across in the market. Some are made to be worn around the wrist, some are sensor strips placed under or above the mattress, and then there are the more uniquely designed sleep trackers such as headbands rings, and etc.
Whichever of these you prefer, I highly suggest taking into account its comfortability when in use. After all, these sleep trackers are in the business of helping you get better sleep.
Conclusion
To sum it all up, sleep trackers are very useful devices that can promote a healthier sleep hygiene and even improve your overall wellbeing. Most of you might not need the extra help sleep trackers can provide and that’s alright. At the end of the day, it’s up to you whether you want to invest in these devices or not.
However, if you’re constantly having sleep troubles at night, perhaps it’s time to start considering having a sleep tracker handy. This way, you can have an idea of what’s causing your sleeping difficulties, how you can prevent it and improve your bedtime habits, and if it is time to check in with a specialist to further evaluate your health.
Do you already own any of the sleep trackers listed above or still planning to buy one? Did your favorites make it to our list? Let me know all about your insights and experiences with sleep trackers or any suggestions or questions you might have in the comments section below. I would love to hear your thoughts!
The Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2 has always been a huge fan-favorite ever since its release. And for a lot of good reasons.
I’m sure just by reading the headline of this article you already know I absolutely love this portable speaker. I actually use it on the regular and I highly recommend this to anyone looking to buy a portable Bluetooth speaker. So I can fully attest to just how awesome this product performs.
This tiny yet powerful Bluetooth speaker promises big bass sound with its cylinder shape and 360-degree design. All the while, being almost indestructible with its IP67 rating.
Have I caught your attention yet? Curious as to how well this speaker performs? Then just keep scrolling to read my complete review of the Wonderboom 2.
For quite some time now, portable Bluetooth speakers have become so popular among the masses. I mean, what’s not to love? These devices are so easy to carry around they almost fit snugly in the palm of your hands, you can listen to and share music with anyone, and/or even start a party anytime and anywhere you choose.
And those are exactly the qualities the Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2 has to offer and more!
Manufactured by Ultimate Ears, they are a company that started way back in 1995 and initially produced what they claim as the “most kick-ass in-ear monitors the music industry had ever seen or heard”. I have not personally tested it yet myself (would love to, though) so that remains to be seen.
Some decades later, Ultimate Ears progressed to crafting portable Bluetooth speakers that are equipped with 360 degrees of sound with unparalleled quality and ruggedness in design. Then fast forward to where we are now, we have the Wonderboom 2, the latest iteration of their Wonderboom line.
Almost just like their other speakers in their lineup, the Wonderboom 2 also sports a 360-degree sound with impressive sound quality and rugged design.
But that’s pretty much where the similarities stop as the Wonderboom 2 had undergone upgrades, improvements, and tweaks that led it to be on top of everyone’s favorite list.
Aside from its top-tier design, the Wonderboom 2 is a portable Bluetooth speaker that can fit comfortably in the palm of your hands. It has a fabric loop on top so you can easily carry it or attach it to your bag by using a clip.
On its bottom, you’ll find the new “outdoor boost” button that enhances your listening experience to suit any outdoor environment you’re in. In addition, you also get a supposedly magic button. As interesting as that may sound, it’s actually just a button that can navigate and control your tracks.
Apart from the intuitive controls, the Wonderboom 2 uses a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that gives you up to 13 hours of playtime. And you only need to charge it for less than 3 hours to get a full battery.
Unfortunately to my disappointment, the Wonderboom 2 still uses a micro-USB port for charging. You can find this behind a waterproof cover on the speaker.
While IP67 is slowly becoming the standard for portable speakers, it’s still a pretty impressive feature to have for the Wonderboom 2 nonetheless. The Wonderboom 2 is 100% protected from accidental drops, dusts, sands, and can float to the surface of the water.
Features & Specifications
Dimensions: 3.68 x 3.68 x 4.02 inches
Item Weight: 15 ounces.
Bluetooth: Yes.
Wi-Fi: No.
Wireless Range: Mobile range for music playback is up to 100 ft (30 m).
Voice Assistance: No.
Speakerphone: No.
Battery-powered: Yes.
Battery Life: 13 hours of playtime with a single charge.
Waterproof: Yes.
Dust and Sandproof: Yes.
Floats On Water: Yes.
IP Rating: IP67.
Warranty: 2-year limited hardware warranty.
Special Features: Noise cancellation, outdoor boost mode, double stereo, and a magic button that can play, pause, and skip your music or any content you’re listening to.
Check out Ultimate Ears’ preview of the Wonderboom 2 below.
When it comes to sound quality, there is no doubt that Ultimate Ears is one of the leading brands to look for. This applies to their full lineup of speakers and earphones and the Wonderboom 2 is no exception. That’s why this portable Bluetooth speaker remains to be my top favorite.
The Wonderboom 2 provides a much richer bass that I find is an improvement from its predecessor. The sound you hear is detailed and cohesive enough as far as listening to my playlists goes. You can easily notice the crisp instrumentals and vocals which is really awesome if you enjoy listening to ASMR like me.
The overall experience is just spine tingling.
All in all, it’s a solid performance and what you could expect for a Bluetooth speaker at this price range.
Durability
Just like with the Wonderboom 2’s sound quality, this speaker’s durability is as tough as it gets. The rugged design helps with that a lot and you’re assured that this will last for many years to come.
With an IP67 rating, your device is completely protected against particles such as dust and sand. You also won’t have to worry about accidentally dropping this to a pool or any body of water as this will surely float for your convenience.
Outdoor Boost Button
The outdoor boost button is a welcome addition to the Wonderboom 2. This makes the speaker a lot more suitable for outdoor activities such as camping, picnics, or even pool or beach parties!
If you’re skeptical whether such a tiny device can power up a party, then you’ll be happy to know that the “double-up” feature lets you pair up your Wonderboom 2 with another one to level up any party or listening sessions with your friends.
Battery Life
Depending how you’re using the Wonderboom 2, the battery life can either be enough or mediocre for you.
Personally, 13 hours of playtime is more than enough for me as I only tend to use my speaker for music and ASMR listening. Plus, you only ever need to charge this for about less than 3 hours to get a full charge and you’re ready to go.
Overall Design And Colors
The Wonderboom 2 sports a really adorable design in my opinion. It’s a chunky, cylinder shape that is really pleasant to hold in your hands. It’s lightweight and you can also opt to use the fabric loop on top of the speaker to carry it around with you anywhere you go.
The rugged exterior also helps in making this portable speaker safely protected from rigorous outdoor activities.
While aesthetics might not be a very important factor to some of you, it’s still pretty nice to have multiple colorways to choose from and have an aesthetically pleasing accessory around with you.
Least Favorite Things
The Wonderboom 2 Still Doesn’t Support USB-C Types
This factor can be a big deal breaker for some of you. Admittedly, this is the biggest flaw the Wonderboom 2 has.
In an age where our devices are moving on to using USB-C as the industry standard, it’s really troublesome and quite disappointing that Ultimate Ears still decided to use a micro USB port to charge this device.
The only saving grace is that they at least included a charging cable so you don’t have to buy one for yourself.
No Other Physical Inputs
While it’s not my biggest concern with the Wonderboom 2, it might be for some of you. If your primary source of music or podcasts or any content you want to listen to is just through Bluetooth connectivity then you’ll be fine with this speaker.
But if you’re looking to plug in your AUX for any additional audio, then you’ll be quite disappointed.
In A Nutshell
Here’s a narrowed down list of the good and the bad with the Wonderboom 2.
Pros
Portable and nice, rugged design.
Reasonable mid-range price.
High-quality 360-sound.
IP67 makes it suitable for a ton of other activities outside of showering. It’s also drop-proof, sand-proof, dust-proof, and it floats on the surface of the water.
The outdoor listening button enhances the user’s experience when they’re using the speaker outside of their homes.
A lot of fun and vibrant colorways to choose from.
Cons
It does not support voice assistance. For some, this might not be a big deal but to people who rely on this, it’s a huge downside.
No physical inputs like an AUX slot.
You don’t get software updates from the Ultimate Ears app.
Still doesn’t use USB-C for charging.
Final Verdict
I’ve already mentioned how much I love this product and how much I use it so you already know what I’m going to say. For such a tiny, portable Bluetooth speaker to produce a deep, rich bass with powerful yet crisp sounds while also being life-proof should be enough to convince you that this is one of the best of the best.
Overall, it’s a fantastic portable Bluetooth speaker that delivers on its promises.
But does that mean you should go out and buy it too?
Not at all.
At the end of the day, it is still up to you whether the Wonderboom 2 fits your preference and what you are looking for. My review is just here to help you have options and have the means to weigh them for consideration. I only hope I was able to do those and have been a great help in your purchasing decisions.
But if you ask me, this is where you should put your money in.
Do you already own the Wonderboom 2? Let me know about your experiences in the comments section below. I’d love to have discussions with you!
Let me cut to the chase. The Seville Classics AirLIFT Workstation is a great and affordable standing desk converter that rises to the occasion. Whether for work or for leisure, it’s a solid unit that allows you to smoothly transition from sitting to standing without putting in a lot of effort.
If you’ve been working from home for quite a while now, chances are, you’ve been sitting while working for extended periods of time. Obviously, that’s not a good thing.
This gives us an option to alternate between standing and sitting which can highly improve our overall health and reduce the risk of heart-related diseases, weight gain, and bad posture.
But enough of that, let’s move on to the actual review of the Seville Classics AirLIFT Workstation and how this height adjustable desk riser can ergonomically improve your work space.
If you’ve been on the hunt for a reasonably priced standing desk converter that performs well and has a wide range of adjustable height settings, then you’re on the right page.
Seville Classics brings you their own variation of an adjustable desk riser with an “airLIFT” system which allows their users to manually adjust its height settings without any fuss.
If you’re not new or already familiar with the world of standing desks and height-adjustable desk risers, you know all too well how some units from other manufacturers can be a pain in the backside when having to adjust them. Some need quite the muscle to raise or lower. And some just need a lot of effort to be put in.
This can be especially disappointing since standing desk converters are supposed to bring us more comfort, not more work.
That’s why Seville Classic’s variant of a standing desk converter is such a refreshing change thanks to their unique airLIFT system.
Aside from that particular feature, Seville Classic’s standing desk converter also offers you a stable standing desk experience. You can easily adjust the height settings with no hassle at all in your preferred comfort level. If that’s not enough, it comes with a pretty affordable price tag too!
Features & Specifications
Size/Variant Of The Product Reviewed: 36 inches.
Product Weight: 50 lbs.
Dimensions: 35.4 inches x 35.8 inches x 19.7 inches
Surface Dimensions: 35.43 inches x 23.23 inches x 0.59 inches (thick)
Keyboard Tray Dimensions: 35.43 inches x 12.60 inches x 0.59 inches (thick)
Check out Seville Classics’ video about their Height Adjustable Stand Up Desk airLIFT Workstation below.
What I Love About The Seville Classics AirLIFT Workstation
AirLIFT Design
As I’ve already mentioned previously, the airLIFT system in Seville Classics’ standing desk converter is one of the main reasons this unit stands out amongst its competitors.
With the use of this unique mechanism, you can easily adjust the height settings of the standing desk converter according to your comfort level without having to use a lot of strength.
All you need to do is squeeze both airLIFT levers to raise your desk at your preferred height.
Additionally, due to the pneumatic height adjustment, the desk can move as quickly as you do. Giving you maximum efficiency especially when you need a lot of work done. The desk itself will adjust vertically inside its own footprint, which significantly takes up less space around your office.
Solid Performance
When it comes to performance, the Seville Classics’ airLIFT workstation doesn’t lag behind either.
Made with high-quality and a heavy-duty steel frame, this unit offers a great deal of durability and stability even when used in its maximum height settings. You’ll experience no wobbling, shaking, or sliding when you put it under its maximum weight capacity.
The 33-lb weight load limit is evenly distributed throughout the surface area which largely contributes to its impressive stability.
So whether you’re using it in a sitting position or standing, the desk feels very sturdy and is built to last for years.
Spacious Work Surface Area
Another noteworthy feature of this particular adjustable desk riser is its spacious work platform. It can conveniently accommodate dual-monitor systems or a monitor and laptop combination. Apart from that, you still get plenty of room to place other work equipment or peripherals you might need.
Speaking of peripherals, you also get a built-in slot for your smartphones or tablets on the desk itself. Which can be pretty handy. This is perfect for you if you constantly need to be near your phone or just need an additional gadget like a tablet on hand whether it be for personal or work purposes.
A Wide Range Of Height Adjustable Settings
Whether you’re taller or shorter, you’re going to absolutely love the wide range of adjustable height settings in the Seville Classics AirLIFT Workstation.
With the help of the airLIFT levers, you can easily adjust this desk riser from a mere 6.2 inches to 19.1 inches of height. That’s a lot of height!
So if you’re on the taller side of the spectrum, you won’t have to worry about leaning down or straining your back just to get to eye level with your monitors. In turn, you also get to improve your posture.
No Assembly Required
This unit is one of the few standing desk converters that gets delivered to your home already assembled.
So if you have no time to set up or assemble an adjustable desk riser on your own, this is a great desk to consider. It’s also suitable for people like me who are not as great at doing DIY stuff even when there’s an instruction manual to follow.
It’s a huge bonus to me that I can just take this unit out of the box and have it ready for use in a jiffy.
The first drawback of the Seville Classics AirLIFT Workstation is its keyboard tray.
Many standing desk converters from other manufacturers allow their keyboard trays to be versatile enough so you can tilt them in different directions and angles for maximum comfort. However, this unit does not do that which is fairly disappointing.
If it’s any consolation, the keyboard tray is detachable. So you’re free to get rid of it if it’s not in use so you can save up on workspace. Then just lock it back in if you’re going to use it again.
Too Tall For Sitting Height
Another disadvantage is that this standing desk converter can be quite uncomfortable when you’re using it at sitting height.
Taller people might not see this as a problem, but shorter people will definitely notice this. So take note of this before making any purchases.
The Good & The Bad
Here’s a narrowed down list of the pros and cons of the Seville Classics AirLIFT Workstation.
Pros
There’s a built-in slot for your smartphone and tablet.
Great warranty coverage. You get 3 years of warranty from the manufacturer, protecting you against original defects in material or workmanship under normal home or office use for the duration of the coverage period.
The airLIFT system allows for a smooth and seamless transition from sitting to standing while you work.
Different colors to choose from. If you’re tired of seeing the same, old black standing desk converters, this unit has a white and walnut variant.
Budget-friendly.
Cons
The sitting height can be too tall for people who have shorter heights.
The keyboard tray is not as adjustable. You can only detach it, but no tilting to different angles.
The keyboard tray’s surface area is also fairly small compared to other standing desk converters. It can only accommodate the standard keyboard size with little room left for your mouse.
Final Verdict
All in all, the Seville Classics AirLIFT Workstation works well and is perfectly suitable for anyone looking for a sturdy Z-lift standing desk converter you can manually adjust without a fuss.
In comparison to other competitors in its range, it stands out mainly because of the airLIFT mechanism. Which I find really reliable as I don’t have to exert a lot of effort in raising or lowering the desk whenever I need to adjust it.
Its main drawbacks, however, are its keyboard tray and that it is still pretty high even in a default sitting positing. The keyboard tray isn’t as versatile and you can only opt to detach it when not in use. So that lack of function takes away some points when it comes to being ergo-friendly.
Meanwhile the desk can seem pretty uncomfortable for shorter people when you’re using it while sitting down. Keep in mind, I’m only 160cm or 5’3 in feet. So I am pretty short and I’ve read reviews where people taller than me experiencing the same uncomfortability.
Though this disadvantage could also be possible due to using low-leveled chairs. But if you’re a lot taller, there shouldn’t be any problem at all.
Do you already own a Seville Classics AirLIFT Workstation? Let me know in the comments section below what you think and how your experiences are!
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 stands out in many ways amongst the several Android smartwatches in the market right now. It’s jam-packed with an array of impressive features. These upgraded features can help you keep track of your health while giving you an overall amazing user experience with the device.
Whether it be the fan-favorite rotating bezel, the newly added FDA-cleared electrocardiogram feature, advanced sleep-tracking, or its ability to track your blood oxygen levels, and so much more, what’s not to love?
To give you a better explanation, let’s dive right into the details with my dedicated review of the Galaxy Watch 3 below.
With a traditional design similar to your standard wristwatch, the Galaxy Watch 3 has all the functions you’ll ever need in a smartwatch. Which are typically for fitness and health tracking and quick access to your notifications when your phone is not on hand.
Speaking of fitness and health tracking, you’d be happy to know that the Galaxy Watch 3 had brought in impressive upgrades to its health tools to help you in that aspect.
Such tools are a SpO2 tracking app (this measures your blood oxygen saturation levels), a more advanced sleep tracker than its previous models, a blood pressure monitor, a menstrual cycle tracker, fall detection, an FDA-cleared ECG feature, and a whole lot more.
Apart from its great functionalities, one particular feature you might fall in love with is its rotating bezel. After removing it from previous designs, I’m happy that Samsung has re-implemented it in the Galaxy Watch 3. It’s pretty useful and a nice alternative to constantly swiping and poking against the screen to navigate your smartwatch.
Another great factor of the Galaxy Watch 3 is that it offers two sizes and three different colors to choose from. The two sizes you can pick are either the 41mm variant or the 45mm variant. So if you’re concerned with sizes, Samsung has got you covered.
While with the colors, you can either get Mystic Black, Mystic Silver, or Mystic Bronze.
If you’d like, you can check out Samsung’s introduction to the Galaxy Watch 3 below!
Features & Specifications
Dimensions: 45 x 46.2 x 11.1 mm for the 45mm variant, 41 x 42.5 x 11.3 mm for the 41mm variant.
Despite its premium yet traditional aesthetic, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 effectively doubles as a fitness and health tracker due to its comprehensive health features. Almost rivaling Apple’s, Wear OS, and other dedicated fitness trackers in the market. In fact, it even almost has the same features as Samsung’s own Active Watch 2.
By far, the Galaxy Watch 3 has easily one of the most complete suites for general health and fitness-related monitoring you can find on a smartwatch.
To give you an insight, the Galaxy Watch 3 can track 40 different workouts, which includes both outdoor and indoor swimming. Seven of those workouts can be automatically detected and tracked.
In addition, this particular wearable is also equipped with better data analysis for running. The Galaxy Watch 3 gives you a breakdown of your form. This includes your asymmetry, foot contact time, flight time, regularity, vertical motion, and stiffness while you do your runs.
You also get a running coach, pretty much similar to the Active Watch 2. It can provide helpful real-time feedback about your form during your runs. To add to that, Vo2 Max is also a nice and fairly common way to measure your cardiorespiratory fitness. In other words, it can calculate your oxygen consumption during workouts.
A heart-shaped dashboard lets you know of your active minutes, calories burned and standing time to compare to your target goals. You can also customize what information you want to be displayed on your screen during your exercises.
As mentioned previously, the Galaxy Watch 3 now has an FDA-cleared ECG monitor. Essentially, this means you are now able to detect signs of atrial fibrillation.
Samsung was kind of late to have this feature since Apple was able to do this with their older models in their Apple Watch Series line, but it’s still a nice addition. Better late than never, right?
SpO2 Measurements
Being able to track your SpO2 levels is quite important these days. Especially now we’re living in the middle of an ongoing pandemic. People who have COVID-19 can experience shortness of breath and dips in their blood oxygen levels.
Thankfully, the Galaxy Watch 3 comes in with a built-in pulse oximeter so you can track your own blood oxygen levels in the comfort of your home. For it to work, you’ll have to keep your arm still on a flat surface and make sure that your wearable is correctly positioned around your wrist.
The test takes a few minutes before getting your results. It’s fairly easy and beats having to drive all the way to the hospital to check if something’s wrong.
In summary, this feature is quite useful to have at your disposal at any time of the day wherever you are.
Improved Sleep Monitoring
On the previous models of the Galaxy Watch, the built-in sleep monitoring app provides you with very little context about your sleeping habits.
Fortunately with the Galaxy Watch 3, Samsung has partnered with the National Sleep Institute to provide their users a better and more detailed insight on their REM cycle, a morning report on your quality of sleep, and very useful tips on how you can further improve your sleep.
Tizen 5.5 with One UI 2.0
After leaving Google’s platform, Wear OS, the Samsung Galaxy Watches has now its own operating system called Tizen. With the Galaxy Watch 3, it is in its latest form, One UI 2.0.
Without a doubt, Tizen works so much better than Wear OS in so many ways. It’s a lot faster and easier to use, providing an overall better user experience. Not to mention, it has a bit of tweaks with minor improvements and slicker animations in the Galaxy Watch 3 compared to other Samsung’s smartwatch units.
My only qualm is that it has a limited selection of third-party apps compared to its rival, Apple. But it does have offline local music support and offline Spotify support. And with the 8gb of internal memory, I can easily store my music on the go.
The Design
Out with the old chunky and thick aesthetic and in with the new slimmer and lighter design of the Galaxy Watch 3.
While the difference doesn’t seem much on paper, the feel of it around your wrist is a lot more noticeable and you’ll find yourself more comfortable with it too.
Personally, I find the Galaxy Watch 3 one of the most good-looking smartwatches in the market right now. I just love it when high-end gadgets such as this don’t particularly look like a piece of technology wrapped around your wrist or so in your face.
It’s subtle, it looks clean, and having more than 50,000 watch faces to choose from is an impressive option to have. Did I mention it also has interchangeable bands and straps? With so many customization options, you can freely experiment with it each and every day according to your liking.
Replaceable Batteries
While Samsung made no claims of using recycled materials on the Galaxy Watch 3, I truly appreciate that they made replaceable batteries on this unit. I’ve found so many wearables that have irreplaceable batteries that this particular feature is a breath of fresh air.
My Least Favorite Thing
Disappointing Battery Life
For such a premium product to be produced in this day and age, there is no excuse for this device to have such a mediocre battery life. Especially when the original Galaxy Watch could last up to 4 days of use. Meanwhile, the Galaxy Watch 3 only gets up to 2 days.
Sad to say, it’s quite disappointing. While 2 days of use is not that bad and other smartwatches’ battery lives have lasted for a lot less, it is just completely unfortunate we only get 2 days from Samsung’s latest model when they were able to pull off a longer lasting battery with the original.
Pros & Cons
To sum it all up, here’s a narrowed down list of the pros and cons of the Galaxy Watch 3.
Pros
A great alternative to the Apple Watch Series.
Premium design.
Rotating bezel.
Fast and solid performance.
Bright display.
Replaceable batteries.
Cons
Battery life is mediocre.
The 45mm variant is a little too big if you have smaller-sized or even average-sized wrists.
Final Verdict
All in all, I find that the Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 the best Android smartwatch you can buy in the market right now. There are definitely great alternatives in the market too. But if you’re looking for the best, this is the better pick.
There’s not a lot of smartwatches right now is as well-rounded as the Galaxy Watch 3. It’s perfectly suitable for any sort of lifestyle you might have, whether you’re a fitness junkie, a more casual health enthusiast, or just someone who likes having the convenience of a smartwatch, the Galaxy Watch 3 is for you.
To put it shortly, the Galaxy Watch 3 has a little bit of everything. And for the most part, Samsung delivered in a lot of those aspects well.
Do you already own a Samsung Galaxy Watch 3? Let me know about your experiences and insights with this device in the comments section below!
If you have ever found yourself feeling down or moody more than usual during the colder and darker months of the year, it is possible that you may have Seasonal Affective Disorder or better known as SAD. If that’s the case, then this article is made just for you. To help ease those symptoms, I’ve come up with a list of the Best SAD Light Therapy Lamps 2021.
Affiliate Disclosure: I am grateful to be of service and to bring you content free of charge. In order to do this, please note that when you click links and purchase items, in most cases I receive referral commissions. Eventually, I may earn enough to buy a beer or two.
For those who are not familiar, SAD is a type of depression that is related to the change of seasons. According to the American Psychiatric Association, people who experience these tend to have mood changes and symptoms akin to depression during the colder seasons when there is less sunlight, which usually improves on the arrival of spring.
SAD has also been linked to a biochemical imbalance in the brain which is caused by shorter hours of daylight and less sunlight during the winter. As the seasons change, people who have SAD experience a shift in their circadian rhythm (also known as our biological internal clocks) which causes disruption on their daily schedules or overall difficulty with keeping up on their daily activities.
Will a SAD Light Therapy Lamp help?
Now moving on to the main topic of our article, a SAD Light Therapy Lamp is known for easing those SAD symptoms. It helps to provide extra light to make up for those shortened daylight hours during the winter.
Don’t get me wrong, these lamps are not miracle workers. They’re not going to magically cure SAD and make it go away for good but it has been found effective in improving one’s mood according to the NHS.
So if you’re looking to combat those winter blues, then you might just find some of the best SAD Light Therapy Lamps of 2021 below.
1. Carex Day-Light Sky Bright Light Therapy Lamp
Made by Carex Health Brands, the Carex Day-Light Sky Bright Light Therapy Lamp is an LED lightbox made to combat a lot of sleeping concerns. Such as fatigue, low energy, and circadian sleep disorders.
It’s one of the largest SAD light therapy lamps in the market that delivers the recommended 10,000 LUX light therapy to keep your SAD at bay. You also get to have two brightness options: one set provides you high brightness with the 10,000 LUX for therapy sessions while the other light setting gives a softer light perfect for any kind of situation.
This particular lightbox has a glare-free and flicker-free LED. This evenly distributes light made of Hi-impact polycarbonate with the lens filtering 100% of harmful UV rays. This light therapy lamp also meets the standards for safe sun lamp therapy and full-spectrum light therapy.
What Makes The Day-Light Sky So Great?
When making this list, I decided to place this at the top as it was my best pick for the best SAD Light Therapy Lamp for 2021 due to a number of things. It has great coverage, doesn’t overheat, is adjustable, and is much more affordable compared to the other SAD lamps you might find in this article. If you’re looking for light therapy lamps with more intensity in their brightness, there are definitely a lot of those in the market which will be covered in this list as well. But the Carex Day-Light Sky Bright Light Therapy Lamp is good for beginners and anyone who just started venturing into SAD lamps.
According to Carex, their Day-Light Sky Bright Light Therapy Lamp is best for people who feel mild to moderate symptoms of SAD such as sleep issues, fatigue, irregular mood swings, etc. This device can help relieve those symptoms, brightening up your mood and increasing your energy.
Impressive Coverage
Another impressive feature of the Day-Light Sky is its reach. This light therapy lamp is still 4 inches short of the recommended minimum distance for a comfortable session, only reaching 12 inches with its 10,000 LUX. But keep in mind that the lamps with the same 10,000 LUX have an average reach of 6 inches. Meanwhile, several other lamps only reach 2 inches.
Additionally, you can also still sit at a more comfortable distance from the Day-Light Sky. You’ll still benefit from light therapy without the maximum 10,000 LUX of light.
This is enough to put the Day-Light Sky’s performance on top of our Best SAD Light Therapy Lamps 2021.
So if you’re still a little iffy and a little unsure about light therapy lamps, this is a great SAD lamp to start with. So you can see for yourself if these kinds of lamps will improve your Seasonal Affective Disorder. It’s beginner-friendly, has great coverage, and has solid brightness.
Rating: 9.5 out of 10.
Where Can I Buy The Carex Day-Light Sky Bright Light Therapy Lamp?
Northern Light Technologies is probably one of the most preferred and popular brands when it comes to producing the best SAD light therapy lamps in the market. So it’s no surprise that their products will eventually find their way on my list.
Like the Carex Day-Light Sky, the Northern Light Technologies Boxelite has a 10,000 LUX of light that’s UV-blocked and powerful glare-free fluorescent bulbs that offer a bright and comfortable diffused light designed to mimic sunlight. Due to its large screen, the Boxelite’s 10,000 LUX of light is able to reach a distance of 14 inches, perfect for people who find the average 6 inches too close for comfort.
The Boxelite also comes in with a durable metal casing, a long, sturdy cable, and a stand in case you’d like to have it placed on a stand instead of a table.
Brighter Days Ahead With The Boxelite
With the Boxelite, you’re sure to feel immediate changes in your mood. Almost like you just stepped out of the house and had a walk in the sun. While it’s nothing drastic, the boost of spirit and energy is there. It became more and more noticeable the more the Boxelite was used. I would even describe the light therapy sessions akin to a face looking up onto the sun, just basking in its light.
It’s quite odd to think how artificial light can replicate sunlight and I agree. Nothing does beat the feeling of the actual warmth of sunlight. After all, we all need some Vitamin D to keep our bodies healthy. But the Boxelite is definitely as close as it gets. It provides an easy and quick fix for anyone who has SAD during the winter season.
Size Matters
I think my only gripe with the Boxelite is that it actually a lot bulkier and heavier than it looks especially in the pictures. It’s not a very huge difference, but keep in mind that’s it not the most portable device to carry around. The great thing about it though is how sturdy it feels.
Rating: 9 Out of 10.
Where Can I Buy The Northern Lights Technologies Boxelite?
A little different from the previous products mentioned here, the Lumie BodyClock Active 250 Wake-Up Light is a bedside alarm clock that simulates a natural and gradual sunrise. It’s perfect for people who have difficulty in sleeping or suffer from circadian sleep disorders.
This alarm clock helps you wake up naturally by simulating sunrise that gradually brightens over 15, 20, 30, 45, 60, or 90 minutes; completely customizable for you.
Rise and Shine Or Say Goodnight With The Lumie BodyClock
With the Lumie BodyClock, there’s a lot of exciting features that really make me look forward to starting my day then winding down once nighttime comes.
When setting the alarm for the morning, you can choose whether you’d like to wake up with a dawn chorus or a rooster’s call. There’s also the option of an FM radio and six other different sound effects. If you think you set your alarm a little too early or just simply not ready to wake up yet, you can easily tap the snooze button.
If you have trouble sleeping at night, the Lumie BodyClock includes a sunset feature that will help you unwind and be ready for bed. Aside from morning sounds, you also get nighttime sounds like wave sounds or white noises to help you lull to sleep. If you don’t like sleeping in total darkness, this clock also acts as a nightlight and has a convenient dimmable bedside lighting.
Benefits and Downsides
When it comes to a healthy lifestyle, a regular and healthy sleep schedule is often overlooked. Studies even show that it is one of the most common yet frequently overlooked health problems. People with sleep disorders or who suffer from wakefulness are often hindered, having their health adversely affected.
This kind of thing gets even worse once the winter season is here. As the colder season arrives, many people feel less productive and lacking in energy as the months bring shorter hours of sunlight, which is a natural signal for our bodies to know that it’s time to wake up.
If you’re one of these people, the Lumie BodyClock into your lifestyle might just be what you need. While you’re asleep, the Lumie BodyClock gradually lights up, mimicking the sunrise, and prompts your body to reduce the production of sleep hormones such as melatonin and increase the levels of hormones like cortisol that help you wake up and start your day.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a SAD lamp with more intensity in light, the Lumie BodyClock might not work for you as it only ranges in illuminance from 100 to 300 LUX. It’s best to pair it with a SAD Lamp that has around 10,000 LUX of light for optimum effects.
Rating: 8 out of 10.
Where Can I Buy The Lumie BodyClock Active 250 Wake-Up Light?
A personal favorite of mine is the Northern Lights 10000 LUX Light Therapy Desk Lamp. It’s also another impressive product from Northern Lights Technologies.
As a huge bookworm, I genuinely appreciate how this Light Therapy Lamp is shaped perfectly for a desk lamp. Whenever the colder season arrives, I’d always feel less energetic in doing things and that includes reading. But with this particular light therapy lamp, I can easily go on for hours with my nose between several books as it compensates for the lack of sunlight.
Powerful and Well-Built
One feature of the Northern Lights 10,000 LUX Light Therapy Desk Lamp that really stands out is how it can reach up to 18 inches of distance with its 10000 LUX of light, surpassing every other light therapy lamp in this list and giving you enough comfortable space from the desk lamp itself.
Aside from providing bright, therapeutic light, this desk lamp runs on electronically powered ballasts which assure reliable performance with guaranteed no flickers and no hums as well as having UV-blocking. Its adjustable design also allows you to customize the height and the angle at which the light will be shining. It’s easy to rotate around and change the light’s direction as it is not one shape, unlike other SAD lamps, giving me more freedom to move around without losing my light.
While the desk lamp can be quite heavy, it compensates for how well-made and sturdy it feels. It will provide long term performance without having to change or make any replacements whatsoever for the years to come. Since it’s built like an actual desk lamp, it’s safe to say it’ll be staying on my table where I’ll be doing most of my work so I will always have access to my light whenever I please.
Rating: 8.5 out of 10.
Where Can I Buy The Northern Lights 10,000 LUX Light Therapy Desk Lamp?
If you prefer floor lamps over SAD lamps that you have to sit on your desk then the Flamingo 10,000 LUX Bright Light Therapy Floor Lamp might be perfect for you.
The Flamingo Light Therapy Floor Lamp stands at 4-feet tall and just as the name suggests, offers a 10,000 LUX that are full spectrum with protective UV coating. Personally, I think it’s perfect for placing in the living room to replace your standard floor lamp. It will almost feel like you have sunlight right in the comfort of your home.
Portability + Maximum Comfort
The Flamingo Bright Light Therapy Floor Lamp is definitely a stand-out in this list due to its unique design. Among the sea of desk lamps, you get this free-standing and somewhat portable floor lamp. But I find that’s what makes this light therapy lamp so great.
Having this type of light therapy lamp means it’s much more versatile and easier to carry around. Despite it being taller, the long neck of the Flamingo bright light therapy floor lamp makes it convenient to move around the house without having to worry about the body accidentally burning me. Usually, with desk lamps or other lights you have to place on your desk, they get too hot to carry from room to room but you don’t experience the same problem with the Flamingo. Just be careful in handling it so the head doesn’t hit any hard, solid surfaces!
In addition, this floor lamp is also pretty easy to assemble as long as you follow the instructions provided. It’s just a matter of screwing all the parts together. It’s fool-proof and before you know it, you’ll have the Flamingo with you all over the house. Additionally, I find the Flamingo can also double as a great home decor to my home.
According to the manufacturers, it’s best to start with 2 minutes of exposure a day when using the lamp. Try out different distances first until you establish which you’ll be comfortable with. Then gradually over the course of a 2-week period, you can lengthen your exposure and shorten your distance with the floor light until you reach your desired light therapy minutes.
Rating: 8.5 out of 10.
Where Can I Get The Flamingo 10,000 LUX Bright Light Therapy Floor Lamp?
If portability is your main priority in finding the perfect SAD light therapy lamp, then I will highly recommend you check out the Philips GoLite BLU Energy Light Therapy Lamp. It has a five (5) light intensity settings to choose from and uses a UV-free light making it completely safe for your eyes and skin.
I have to say it’s one of my favorites from this list as well. I find the blue light coming from this tiny light therapy lamp really great in improving my mood during the colder months of the year. More importantly, it’s tiny enough that I can put it and carry anywhere I’m comfortable. Imagine it’s like having a mini sun in your backpack!
No More Winter Blues With the Philips GoLite BLU Energy Light Therapy Lamp
Normally, the standard for SAD light therapy lamps to be effective they have to have 10,000 LUX of light in order to mimic the natural sunlight. However, the GoLite BLU only produces 200 LUX of light. For some, this is a huge con. Which is understandable. The point of getting a light therapy lamp is to compensate for the lack of sunlight during the winter season. So if you’re looking for light therapy lamp with more intensity, then the GoLite BLU might not work for you.
On the other hand, I find the blue light so efficient in improving my mood that I don’t mind the lowered brightness in this tiny device. To me, it mimics a sunny blue sky more than the actual sunlight other light therapy lamps go for.
According to a study, people who received blue light therapy has been found to have a significant improvement on the depression scale. There were also improvements found in sleep disturbance, fatigue, concentration, restlessness, and irritability. While it’s not a cure-all, I can certainly say I feel more or less the same effects and improvements upon using the Philips GoLite BLU Energy Light Therapy Lamp.
Rating: 7.5 out of 10.
Where Can I Buy The Philips GoLite BLU Energy Light Therapy Lamp?
If I were to pick the best-looking light therapy lamp from this list, the Sunrise Sensations DayBright Light Therapy Lamp would be my top choice. Besides looking stylish, this is also a solid pick for a great SAD light therapy lamp.
The DayBright Light Therapy Lamp has everything you need: 10,000 LUX of light that’s warm, fully adjustable, and remote-controlled, and UV-free LED technology that gives full-spectrum light with optimal effect on your circadian rhythm.
When Style and Functionality Collide
Aside from DayBright Light Therapy Lamp’s unique shape, being made of natural and sustainable rubberwood makes it stand out so much more from the rest of this list. The design itself compliments any part of the house it could be placed in, giving it a more modern feel and your room an instant upgrade.
The remote control is another stand-out feature of the DayBright Light Therapy Lamp, allowing you to adjust the brightness and the color warmth settings depending on your comfort level. The remote also allows you to toggle easily between presets to match the sunlight throughout the day.
I’ve seen reviews wherein the remote can be quite unresponsive but Sunrise Sensations’ warranty lets you replace this easily.
So if you’re looking to relieve yourself of those winter blues and at the same time want to add a stylish piece in your room, the Sunrise Sensations DayBright Light Therapy Lamp is the perfect pick to make a statement.
Rating: 8.5 out of 10.
Where Can I Buy The Sunrise Sensations DayBright Light Therapy Lamp?
If you’re looking for something out-of-the-box and want to expand your choices from the traditional light therapy lamps, perhaps the Luminette-3 would be something more in your league.
The Luminette-3 claims to be the world’s first light therapy glasses, which I do find quite innovative. It’s comfortable to wear, easy to bring anywhere, and because of the patented illumination system, the Luminette-3 provides ideal exposure without hindering your sight. So if you wear glasses or contact lenses you don’t have to worry about the Luminette-3 affecting your vision or your comfort.
Works Just As Good As Your Traditional Light Therapy Lamps
While wearing the Luminette-3 may take some time getting used to, I find there’s you get a lot of benefits that you can’t find in a traditional SAD lamp.
The Luminette-3 emits a blue-enriched white light, equivalent to the standard 10,000 LUX lamps in the market. You also get 3 intensity settings for maximum comfortability throughout the day. You also get 10 sessions in one full charge with the Luminette-3 shutting down automatically after each 30-minute session. This makes sure that you don’t over exceed the recommended wear time for these light therapy glasses.
According to European standards, if possible risks are your concern, the Luminette-3 has been certified “zero-risk” and has been safely used by over 100,000 people since 2006.
Being able to move around and having the flexibility to not change my routine throughout the day is one of the best things about the Luminette-3. I don’t have to dedicate 30 minutes or so of my time just sitting around on my couch or bed waiting to feel the effects of my light therapy lamps. With the Luminette-3, I can easily do both tasks simultaneously. I can work or engage in my favorite hobbies while I get my mood lifted with the Luminette-3.
The only downside of these light therapy glasses is that it requires regular charging. It can be troublesome especially if you’re in serious need of light therapy during that exact moment. So it’s best to make sure that your Luminette-3 is always charged and running.
If you’re someone with an active lifestyle, the Luminette-3 might just be the one for you.
As my article comes to a conclusion, keep in mind that there’s a lot that goes into when one is considering buying a SAD light therapy lamp. So here are some brief pointers:
Types Of Light
Remember that the purpose of looking for a SAD light therapy lamp is to replace the sunlight you’re lacking during the winter season. That being said, knowing what type of light you need is perhaps the most important feature you need to look for when looking for SAD light therapy lamps. From my research, standard lamps carry 10,000 LUX of light to mimic natural sunlight. Aside from that, the light of your SAD lamp should be either full or broad spectrum. Another type of light is blue light, which is said to be the most significant area of the spectrum as it helps the improvement of one’s mood. But keep in mind, blue light tends to be smaller and more effective at a lower brightness.
courtesy of Carex Health Brands
Price
It’s no surprise that affordability is one of the main deciding factors for us consumers when it comes to making a purchase. A lot of SAD Light Therapy Lamps don’t come in cheap either especially if we’re looking for something of great quality and great for its value. When we’re investing a lot of money on a SAD lamp, we want to make sure we get our money’s worth and that it does its work in improving our overall mood and health. At the same time, you also have to put into consideration that some light therapy lamps that are on the pricier end can last a lot more in the long run than the cheaper ones in the market as their materials might be sturdier and perform longer or better.
Comfortability
One of the main reasons we look for light therapy lamps is to provide us better comfort during the winter seasons where our Seasonal Affective Disorders are on an all-time high. So making sure that we get a light therapy lamp that gives us the exact comfort we need is important. You have to take into account how many inches can you distance yourself from the lamp without losing too much light. Does the light get too hot? Are the lights flicker-free? Are the lights adjustable for any situation? Ask yourself these questions before adding the device to your cart.
Portability
SAD light therapy lamps come in all shapes and sizes, so make it a priority to know which size and weight of the light therapy lamp you’re comfortable with, especially if you plan on carrying it with you around the house.
Warranty
When purchasing a SAD lamp, make sure to check on a manufacturer’s site thoroughly how their warranty and even customer service is like. Some companies can have great products but severely lack when it comes to their warranties. Some companies can be quite unresponsive which makes replacing defective products such a hassle. So make sure to check that you’ll be taken care of in the event you get a product you’re unsatisfied with.
Conclusion
To a lot of people, SAD is a very serious issue that heavily impacts their productivity, relationships, and their whole life in general. So these SAD lamps really do play an important role in improving their health and helping them function properly again.
To sum it up, finding the best SAD light therapy lamps will have a significant and positive effect on people that experience Seasonal Affective Disorder during the colder seasons, and these light therapy devices greatly relieve them of their symptoms.
If you’re one of them, you no longer have to endure those cold and dark winter days once you’ve got yourself a light therapy lamp. Remember that it all comes down to your preference and what works for you. A certain light therapy lamp might work for you but not for another. So I hope my list has given you plenty of options on which SAD lamp to go for.
If you already own a SAD light therapy lamp, let me know about your insight and experiences below.
