out of 10
The short version
Lullwave Sleep Headband $99
The Lullwave is the most comfortable audio sleep headband we have tested, with a design side sleepers will love. Its tracking is a nice extra rather than the main event.
Best for side sleepers and light sleepers
What we like
- Flat speakers you cannot feel when lying on your side
- Blocks light well
- Machine washable
- 12-hour battery
Keep in mind
- Sleep tracking is basic
- Audio lacks bass
- Fabric can feel warm in summer
Key specs
- Battery
- 12 hours
- Charging
- USB-C
- Connection
- Bluetooth 5.2
- Washable
- Yes, with electronics removed
- Price
- $99
Sleep headphones have always involved a trade-off. Earbuds are uncomfortable for side sleepers, and most headbands have speakers bulky enough to feel like pebbles against your ear. The Lullwave’s speakers are under 5 mm thick, and after three weeks of nightly use, none of our testers could feel them.
Comfort
The band is made from a soft, stretchy knit that doubles as an eye mask. It stayed in place through the night for all three testers, including one who moves constantly. In warm weather it can feel a little hot.
Sound
Audio is designed for podcasts, white noise and soft music, and for those it works well. Bass is thin, but that is hardly a problem at 2 a.m.
Sleep tracking
The headband estimates sleep stages using motion. The data is broadly in line with what we saw from dedicated trackers, though far less detailed. Treat it as a bonus.
Final verdict
A side sleeper’s dream
If you want to fall asleep to audio without discomfort, the Lullwave is the best option we have tested.
