In the quest for better sleep, technology continues to introduce innovative solutions. The Aura Smart Sleep Mask promises to improve your nightly rest with a blend of modern design and tech features. However, while it delivers on comfort and functionality, its price may make you think twice. Let’s dive into how this high-tech sleep mask works and whether it’s worth the investment.
A Tech-Infused Sleep Mask
After a tiring few days that involved long drives and sleepless nights, I decided to try out the Aura Smart Sleep Mask. Unlike most traditional sleep masks, the Aura Smart Sleep Mask doesn’t just block out light; it also aims to enhance your sleep with advanced features. Compared to more common sleep trackers like the Oura Ring, which focus on monitoring, this mask is designed to actively improve the quality of your sleep.
The mask syncs with the Aura app, offering a wide range of sleep content such as guided meditations and relaxing soundscapes. However, it comes with a catch: a subscription fee of $59.99 per year (about £45 / AU$90) after an initial one-week free trial. While the app offers a variety of content to help you fall asleep faster, this additional cost might not be for everyone.
Comfortable Design with Great Light Blocking
One of the first things I noticed when I put on the Aura Smart Sleep Mask was its lightweight and comfortable fit. The soft eye-cushion inserts make it feel like a premium product. Even though the mask has some hard plastic components, the cushioning ensures it doesn’t feel heavy or uncomfortable on the face. I was even able to sleep comfortably on my side without too much adjustment.
Its contoured design does an excellent job of blocking out nearly all ambient light. Apart from a tiny sliver of light near the bottom, the mask keeps things dark enough to encourage better sleep. This feature is especially beneficial for people who are sensitive to light while sleeping or who live in environments with a lot of ambient lighting.
Streaming Audio for a Relaxing Experience
The Aura Smart Sleep Mask sets itself apart with its built-in Bluetooth speakers, allowing users to stream their favorite sleep content directly through the mask. The Aura app offers a variety of ambient sounds and guided sleep meditations, but what makes this even more versatile is that you can use it with Spotify, Audible, or other apps. Whether you prefer a calming audiobook or a playlist of nature sounds, this mask has you covered.
The mask stores some preloaded sounds, such as rainfall and forest ambiance, which can be accessed in Zen mode. If you prefer using your own content, the seamless Bluetooth connection allows you to play anything from your phone directly through the mask’s ultra-thin speakers.
A Smart Wake-Up Feature: The Glow Bar
One of the most innovative features of the Aura Smart Sleep Mask is its Glow Bar. This built-in light bar simulates a sunrise, gradually increasing in brightness to wake you up in a calm, natural way. This feature works much like the best wake-up lights available on the market. It’s a far cry from being jolted awake by a loud alarm, offering a much gentler and more pleasant start to the day.
I found the Glow Bar to be highly effective. Instead of waking up groggy, I felt refreshed thanks to this gradual light simulation. If you’re someone who struggles with abrupt alarm clocks, this feature alone might make the Aura Smart Sleep Mask worth considering.
The Cost Factor: Is It Worth the Investment?
Now, for the big question: is the Aura Smart Sleep Mask worth its hefty price tag? At $229 (around £170 / AU$335), it’s undoubtedly an investment. On top of that, the ongoing $59.99 annual subscription for access to most of the Aura app’s content is an additional cost that potential buyers need to consider.
For some, the price may seem steep, especially when there are cheaper alternatives on the market, such as the Snoozeband or Musicozy. While I haven’t personally tested these alternatives, the Snoozeband Deluxe model is priced at $79.99 (about £59.99 / AU$120) and doesn’t come with a recurring subscription fee. This could be a more budget-friendly option for those hesitant about spending on a premium device like the Aura mask.
Final Thoughts: A Premium Experience for Premium Sleep
There’s no denying that the Aura Smart Sleep Mask delivers an excellent sleep experience. From its comfortable design to its Bluetooth-enabled audio streaming and the innovative Glow Bar for gentle wake-ups, the device offers several standout features that can enhance your nightly routine.
However, the steep price and ongoing subscription cost may not be justifiable for everyone. If you’re someone who values high-quality sleep and doesn’t mind spending extra for premium features, this mask could be a great fit. But for those looking for a more budget-conscious solution, exploring alternative options might be a better starting point.
Ultimately, the Aura Smart Sleep Mask is a solid choice for improving your sleep, but only if you’re willing to invest in its premium features and ongoing content subscription.
