Sensate and Apollo Neuro are two innovative wearable devices designed to combat stress. But how do these similar products stack up? This guide examines the key differences between Sensate and Apollo Neuro to determine which stress-reducing wearable is best for your needs.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Sensate | Apollo Neuro |
| Founded | 2020 | 2016 |
| Wearable Device | Wristband only | Wristband + neck device |
| Core Technology | BLAST bilateral stimulation | Proprietary vibrational algorithms |
| Main Benefit | Stress relief | Stress, sleep, focus, energy |
| Programs | 1 BLAST practice | Variety based on needs |
| App Integration | Sensate app only | Apollo + health/fitness apps |
| Cost | $189 one-time | $349 + $20/month membership |
| Credibility | Some initial research | Multiple published studies |
| Ratings | 4.2 stars on Indiegogo | 4.6 stars on App Store |
| Best For | Quick stress relief | Overall mental wellbeing improvement |
Overview of Sensate
Sensate is a wrist-worn wearable that uses subtle vibrations to calm the nervous system and alleviate stress. Launched via Kickstarter in 2021, Sensate raised over $2 million.
Sensate bands connect to a smartphone app to deliver soothing vibrations through practice of something called bilateral Alternating Stimulation Tactile (BLAST) therapy.
The integration of vibration and breathing exercises reduces stress hormone cortisol.
Overview of Apollo Neuro
Apollo Neuroscience created the Apollo Neuro wearable that sits on the back of your neck and wrist. Through gentle vibrations, Apollo helps your body relax by stimulating natural responses that counter “fight-or-flight” stress.
Apollo uses proprietary algorithms to support better focus, sleep, and energy. The Apollo app provides science-backed programs for stress relief, sleep, focus, and more.
Key Differences Between Sensate and Apollo Neuro
Both companies produce human wearable devices. Here are some differences between them:
- How the Devices Work
While both use the power of touch for stress reduction, Sensate and Apollo operate in different ways:
Sensate uses bilateral alternating vibrations that sync with your breathing along nerve pathways. This BLAST technique triggers a mirroring response between the left and right sides of the body which calms stress signals.
Apollo Neuro emits gentle vibrations at frequencies optimized to encourage relaxation, sleep, focus or energy based on underlying neuroscience. Algorithms ensure the vibrations remain dynamic.
Sensate focuses on one BLAST method while Apollo provides a wider range of programs to meet different needs. But both leverage the healing power of touch.
- Features and Capabilities
In terms of features, Apollo offers greater versatility while Sensate stays focused on core stress relief:
Sensate includes one primary practice that guides you through BLAST vibrational breathing exercise for stress relief through the Sensate app. Very straightforward.
Apollo Neuro offers programs tailored to needs like better sleep, focus, energy, anxiety relief, etc. The app provides variety from quick resets to immersive sessions with music integration.
So while Sensate directly targets stress reduction, Apollo provides a more expansive platform to improve wellbeing in multiple ways.
- Device Design and Wearability
These wearables are designed to be worn discreetly and comfortably on a daily basis:
Sensate is a slim wristband resembling a fitness tracker with soft, breathable mesh and an adjustable clasp. Lightweight and hardly noticeable. Recharges via USB.
Apollo Neuro has a silicone wristband plus a smaller device that adheres to the back of your neck with hydrogel adhesive patches. Also lightweight for 24/7 wear ability. Wired charging.
For the most minimalist form, Sensate integrates everything into one slim wristband. Apollo requires wearing two pieces. But both aim for a comfortable, discreet design.
- Supported Platforms and App Integrations
While designed as standalone devices, the wearables integrate with apps and platforms:
Sensate connects with the Sensate app for iOS and Android where you control vibration patterns and monitor usage. No third-party app integrations offered currently.
Apollo Neuro works with their full-featured iOS and Android app providing programs and analytics. Integrates with Apple Health, Fitbit, Garmin, and more to track lifestyle metrics.
Apollo enables you to sync vibration programs with fitness and health tracking for added insight into effects on sleep, activity, heart rate, etc.
- Effectiveness and User Reviews
Both Sensate and Apollo Neuro have garnered positive feedback, but effectiveness varies:
- Sensate earned 4.2 out of 5 stars on Indiegogo from backers who praise its ability to provide quick relaxation during stressful times. Less change to overall stress levels.
- Apollo Neuro is rated 4.6 out of 5 on the App Store with users reporting significant improvement in sleep quality, focus, anxiety levels, and more. Life-changing for some.
While Sensate effectively offers in-the-moment calming, Apollo Neuro seems to make a more profound impact on stress, sleep, and mental health with continued use according to reviews.
- Pricing and Plans
The wearables are priced differently:
- Sensate costs $189 for one wristband via Indiegogo preorder. Unknown final retail pricing. No subscription, all features included.
- Apollo Neuro charges $349 for a starter bundle with both devices. A membership of $20/month or $200/year unlocks full app capabilities and customized programs.
For upfront cost alone, Sensate is more affordable. But Apollo provides more value through evolving app features and the membership option works out to only $5/week.
- Credibility of Companies
As newer players in wearables, both companies seem legitimate yet Apollo Neuro has more proof:
- Sensate was founded in 2020 by two product designers and has so far only offered preorders through Kickstarter. But they partnered with researchers to test their BLAST protocol.
- Apollo Neuroscience was founded in 2016 by neuroscientists with clinical research backgrounds. They have published studies and secured $8.5 million in funding to date.
Apollo Neuro has more scientific credibility and financial backing behind their stress-reducing wearable product thus far. But Sensate shows initial promise.
FAQ About Sensate and Apollo Neuro
Some of Apollo Neuro’s main competitors in wearable stress relief and wellness include:
Muse – Headband using meditation and breathing exercises to reduce stress. Spire – Clip tracker to monitor stress; provides breathing prompting. Bellabeat – Leaf tracker monitors stress; vibrational cues guide breathing. Feel – Wristband uses specific protocols to improve mood and focus.
Mindset – Headphones play audio tones for meditation and focus states. Apollo Neuro is set apart by their neuroscience-based vibrational approach and focus on both hardware and software. Most competitors use singular guided meditation programs rather than proprietary algorithms.
The most similar device to Sensate is probably a Muse meditation headband. Like Sensate, it is a wearable that uses the integration of vibration cues with breathing exercises to promote relaxation and stress reduction. Both Sensate and Muse aim to calm the mind and body by making you more aware of your breathing patterns. Muse focuses purely on meditative practice while Sensate uses its unique BLAST bilateral stimulation method. But they employ similar concepts into wearable form factors.
Yes, Apollo Neuro is backed by significant research validating the efficacy of their vibrational approach to stress relief and improved sleep, focus, and energy. Clinical studies published in peer-reviewed journals have demonstrated Apollo Neuro’s technology decreases cortisol, heart rate, and negative affect while boosting parasympathetic “rest-and-digest” activity and control of emotional responses. Their protocols leverage the body’s natural physiological responses for measurable benefits confirmed by trials. Ongoing research aims to further prove effectiveness.
For those primarily interested in convenient, in-the-moment stress relief, Sensate is likely worth it. Users find the bilateral alternating vibrations integrated with breathing exercises effective for quickly inducing a relaxed state during stressful times or anxiety provoking activities. The device nicely combines wearable technology with proven breathing techniques for on-demand calm. While more research on long-term stress reduction benefits is needed, Sensate does provide an accessible way to find brief respite from stress when you need it most. For that specific purpose, many find the $189 investment worth the cost.
Final Thought
To recap the key differences:
- Apollo Neuro provides more diverse programs and capabilities beyond just stress relief.
- Sensate purely focuses on in-the-moment stress alleviation at a lower price.
- Apollo Neuro has more science and testing validating the technology.
- Sensate offers a simpler, sleeker wrist-only design.
- App integration and evolving features favor Apollo Neuro.
- Apollo Neuro costs more upfront but offers optional membership.
For reducing daily stress and anxiety, Sensate provides an affordable option using unique BLAST technology. But Apollo Neuro seems more versatile and clinically-proven for better focus, sleep, energy and overall wellbeing. Look at your specific needs and budget. Both employ thoughtful touch-based experiences, but Apollo Neuro edges out as the leader in effectiveness and features.