Fitbit not tracking sleep: Fixing Charge, Versa, Sense problems
Activity trackers and smartwatches are a great option for those looking for insights into their sleep habits. But what if the Fitbit on your wrist is not tracking sleep properly? In this article we outline some common troubleshooting options and fixes. Sometimes it can be as simple as rebooting your wearable, adjusting how you wear the tracker to bed or making sure your Fitbit is charged.
Jump to
How do I get my Fitbit to track my sleep?
The limitations of sleep tracking
Type of sleep data you can expect from a Fitbit
Fitbit doesn’t track your sleep? Here’s what to do.
A workaround if only part of your sleep was recorded
Frequently asked questions
How do I get my Fitbit to track my sleep?
Fitbit is one of the most highly regarded wearable brands in the world, and its trackers do a truly useful service. You can draw upon data gathered by a Fitbit device to gauge your health and well-being, as well as monitor your sleep.
On the latter topic, people usually wonder… how does the Fitbit on my wrist figure out that I’m sleeping? How accurate is this information?
The San Francisco wearables manufacturer now offers quite a few different devices. But when it comes to sleep tracking, some are better than others. So it all depends on the model of Fitbit that you own. Some devices keep tabs on sleep cycles automatically while others require additional user input. In general, Fitbit compares well to the competition as far as sleep tracking abilities.
Manual sleep tracking (One, Zip)
If you’re still holding on to a Fitbit One, then your device uses manual sleep tracking. Once you are in bed and ready to go to sleep, press and hold the tracker’s button for several seconds. You will see a stopwatch begin to count, and the other tracker icons will blink, indicating that you are in sleep mode. When you wake up, hold the button down for several seconds to stop the sleep recording. Your tracker’s icons will stop blinking, indicating that you’ve exited sleep mode.
Essential reading: 10 gadgets for advanced sleep monitoring
A Fitbit Zip doesn’t track sleep. This means that you need to manually enter this information if you want it to show in your timeline. So you’ll need to type the information on time spent in bed through the website dashboard.
Automatic sleep tracking (Alta, Blaze, Charge, Flex, Inspire, Surge, Ionic, Versa, Sense series)
Those using the models listed above will be happy to know that sleep tracking is automatic. This means you don’t have to fiddle around with statistics nor worry about launching sleep mode when you go to bed. Although you can still do so if you suspect the automatic readings aren’t precise enough. Using manual mode provides you with one additional stat (time to fall asleep), but otherwise manual and automatic sleep metrics are the same.
By default, the device itself will automatically determine when you lie down based on the decreased rate of motion from the accelerometer. For models with a built-in heart rate sensor, the tracker will also factor in your heart rate data into this equation. Those tend to be more accurate.
When your Fitbit syncs in the morning you’ll see last night’s sleep stats on your dashboard.
The limitations of sleep tracking
Even though Fitbit is a brilliant gadget and really useful as a health tool, it does have certain limitations. For example, it won’t automatically keep track of naps shorter than one hour, since that’s the default resting period that will activate the automated readings. If you’re adept of short naps and you want to capture all your sleep stats, you will have to remember to activate sleep mode manually whenever you lie down.
Type of sleep data you can expect from a Fitbit
Sleep stages and more
For a long time, Fitbit devices had no way of detecting sleep cycles. They only gathered info on how long you slept, how many times you woke up and the number of times you were restless. There is a “sensitive” setting which causes your tracker to record nearly all movements as time spent restless or awake. The “normal” setting counts significant movements as being awake (such as rolling over).
A firmware update a couple of years ago brought the much anticipated sleep stages feature to a number of models. All fitness trackers with heart rate sensors apart from Charge HR and Surge are now able to tell you how much Light sleep, Deep sleep and REM sleep you are getting each night. That way you get an insight into your sleep patterns. Fitbit calculates values by combining accelerometer data, heart rate variability (the time between beats), and Fitbit’s proprietary algorithms.
Some models also feature a silent alarm function. Set up a wake-up time and the device on your wrist will nudge you out of bed by discreetly vibrating at the set time. That being said, if you are a heavy sleeper, iti s probably not a good idea just to rely on a vibrating alarm.
There are other useful features, too, such as personalized sleep goals. They are based on your sleep data which are there to help you achieve your optimal amount of sleep each night. This includes customized bedtime and wake-up targets to establish sleep consistency; reminders to stay on schedule, and a sleep schedule history to chart your progress.
Even more advanced features and measuring oxygen levels
A number of Fitbit devices have a built-in SpO2 sensor. This includes the Charge 3,4 & 5, Fitbit Versa range, Sense and Ionic. The sensor measures oxygen levels in the blood, providing information on how well the body distributes the gas from the lungs to all of its cells.
These levels fluctuate throughout the day. Healthy individuals typically register readings above 97%. Measurements should never fall below 95%, although levels above 92% are generally considered safe.
In the morning you’ll notice a graph called Estimated Oxygen Variation in the sleep section of the Fitbit app. If the line is green your blood oxygen is fine, orange indicates there may be a problem. There are also two horizontal lines which show the healthy range.
Finally, let’s not forget the Sleep Insights feature. This is essentially advice on ways to improve your sleep. Fitbit is using all your activity and diet statistics to discover trends and then dish up personalized guidance on how to improve sleep. The more you wear your tracker to bed, the more personalized insights you may receive.
Fitbit doesn’t track your sleep? Here’s what to do.
Time needed: 15 minutes.
These are the troubleshooting steps to utilize if the device on your wrist is not doing its job properly. Sometimes you might wake up in the morning and find that only half of your sleep session was recorded. Or the tracker might say you only had 2 hours of kip time when in reality you’ve had a good 8 hours. Or perhaps your sleep stages are not showing. Something has gone wrong and the Fitbit has not done what it is supposed to. It makes that night’s data pretty useless.
Incomplete data is a more common problem than not tracking sleep entirely, and it can affect any Fitbit. It doesn’t matter if it’s the recent crop such as Sense 2, Versa 4, Charge 5 – or an older device. It happens on occasion.
A good example is the Fitbit Inspire 2. A couple of years ago many users were complaining that the device would not track sleep – at all. We wrote a piece at the time on how to resolve. This was a major issue at the time.
- Reboot your wearable
First off, you should always try turning the wearable on and off – i.e. a soft restart. That reboots your device but keeps all your data on it. Think of it like switching a desktop computer on and off. This simple thing can resolve many problems and is something definitely worth trying out.
If you’re not sure how to do this, check out our guide on how to reset your Fitbit fitness tracker or smartwatch. - Adjust how you are wearing the tracker to bed
Make sure the wearable is positioned correctly on your wrist. For best results, it should be about 2-3 finger widths above your wrist bone.
If your data seems off, you may want to experiment with perhaps wearing the device a bit tighter or wearing it on your other wrist. If sleep stages are not showing it might be because the tracker was unable to get a consistent heart-rate reading or you wore it too loosely. It should be fairly snug against your wrist, but not tight.
- Try wearing the device on the other wrist
Strapping the wearable around your non-dominant wrist might increase accuracy. This is because the non-dominant hand tends to move less. Fewer movements point to more sleep time.
- Make sure you’ve had at least 3 hours of consecutive sleep
One thing to be aware of is that you need at least 3 consecutive hours of sleep in order for sleep stage info to be recorded. Shorter sleep sessions will record but without this type of info. In fact, the data will be quite limited. Fitbit keeps tabs on all naps that last more than an hour.
- Is the battery critically low?
There are a few other things you should check. Have a look at the battery symbol on your device. If your battery is critically low it is possible your wearable has switched off sleep tracking during the night to preserve battery. Pick up the charging cable and top up the wearable.
- Change sleep sensitivity
Few users know there’s a sleep sensitivity setting in the Fitbit app. Go to the Accounts tab and choose Advanced Settings. Tap on Sleep Sensitivity and choose from the available options.
The default option is the normal mode. This only counts significant movements as being awake, such as rolling over. The sensitive mode will result in your device recording nearly all movements as time spent restless or awake. Play around with this to see if it makes a difference. - Is the heart rate sensor enabled?
Next up you should check the hart rate setting. This should be set to “On” because Fitbit uses the sensor to figure out when you are asleep and for sleep stage info. Even if you think it’s on – double-check. You may have inadvertently switched it off.
The device on your wrist might record sleep even with the heart rate monitor off. But in this case you will not get any sleep stage info – just the basics. - Clean the sensors in the back
When was the last time you cleaned your Fitbit? Regularly doing this will not only reduce your chances of getting a rash from the strap. It will also ensure that the sensors on the back of the device work as intended. But don’t do this with chemicals! Rather, use a damp cloth and just wipe of away any dirt or grime that may have accumulated.
- Are you running the latest software?
Typically, it is good to be running on the latest version of the Fitbit iOS or Android smartphone app and the latest version of the firmware for your activity tracker or smartwatch.
For example, a while ago there was a bug which resulted in users only seeing simplified sleep data. The bug treated long sleep sessions as if they were naps! The issue appeared on both Android and iOS phones.
And yes, we know it can be a risk sometimes updating to the latest version of the software. But in the long run you are better off. Fitbit has been known to release buggy software updates but that’s the exception rather than the rule. - Ensure your Fitbit is synced to the Fitbit app
It is always good to regularly sync your Fitbit to the smartphone app. Not only will this flag up any potential software updates, but it will also clear the backlog of data that is stored on your device.
A workaround if only part of your sleep has been recorded
There is a workaround if you find your nightly sleep data is incomplete. It is a manual solution that is not ideal – but may be better than doing nothing.
You can edit the sleep log in the smartphone app by tapping the 3 dots in the upper right corner of each sleep session. This gives you the option to edit or delete the line.
So let’s say you have two separate sleep sessions for the night. You could delete the first one and edit the start of the second one to coincide with when you actually went to bed. It’s a good way of merging two or more half-night segments.
The sleep stage info will be a bit messed up but the length of the sleep session will be correct. You might even find that sleep stage info has been deleted entirely for that night.
As always, if all else fails you should contact Fitbit’s Customer Support team. If your wearable has completely stopped tracking sleep you may be experiencing another issue. Or the device may be faulty.
Frequently asked questions
How does Fitbit figure out that I’m sleeping?
Fitbits track movement, heart rate and other information to determine when a person is in a state of sleep. Furthermore, the devices employ algorithms to analyse the data in order to determine the various stages of sleep. In the Fitbit app, users can also manually set a sleep period, which helps the device track sleep more accurately.
Why isn’t my Fitbit tracking my sleep?
There could be a variety of reasons for this. Have a look at the troubleshooting list above. We list the 10 main causes and fixes. Go through them one at a time until you resolve the issue. There is always the chance that your device is faulty, in which case you should contact Fitbit Support.
How effective is Fitbit in tracking sleep?
In a nutshell, they’re pretty good. Fitbits, for example, can track naps, unlike some other brands.
As with all such devices, studies have shown that Fitbits can accurately track the duration of sleep, but may not be as accurate at tracking the different stages of sleep (such as light, deep, and REM sleep). It is also worth noting that Fitbit devices are not medical-grade sleep trackers. Which means you should not use the data to diagnose or treat sleep disorders.
Which Fitbits track sleep?
Most Fitbit devices are able to track sleep, including the Charge, Versa, Sense, and Ionic. If you are buying a new Fitbit, have no worries – it can track sleep. And this will be automatic, unlike the earlier Fitbit devices which use manual sleep tracking.
Can Fitbit detect Sleep Apnea?
Fitbit devices cannot detect sleep apnea because they are primarily intended to track sleep duration and quality. Sleep apnea is a serious medical condition that requires professional diagnosis and treatment. If you suspect you have sleep apnea, you should see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment. Having said that, some Fitbits can track blood oxygen throughout the night. You can use these readings as an indicator of possible health conditions.
Which Fitbit is best for sleep tracking?
The latest devices in the Fitbit Sense, Charge, and Versa range are the best sleep trackers because they include advanced features such as Sleep Score and sleep stage tracking, which provide a more detailed analysis of your sleep patterns. The Inspire is also a viable option, but it lacks some of these advanced features. Ultimately, the best Fitbit for sleep tracking will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
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Versa 2 does not have a sleep sensitivity setting under advanced settings and it is updated. Like very many in the Fibit Community I wish I had not wasted my money.
I agree with you. Paid over £130 for my Versa lite and for 3 nights this week it has not recorded my sleep. I think they are trying to cram too many “things” into it. I’d fancied buying the scales too but I read a lot of problems on the forum. I’m not even going there!!!!!!!!!!! Lol. Rainy day and I’ve spent all morning on this so far! Not a happy bunny. E.M.
Absolutely the same experience. Was also thinking about buying the scales but no point. Received my Versa for my birthday in late August. Have altered the sleep sensitivity but still no stats, two nights running sometimes. I suspect that if you get up in the night For personal comfort reasons or to tend to small children, then go back to bed, it fails to record either time of sleep. Also if I wear the band all day, my wrist skin sweats and the skin rubs off in places. It’s only useful for counting footsteps and it’s a clunky object to wear. I feel like I’ve been “tagged”!
I’ve had luck with deleting the sleep log and manually adding it. That seems to do the trick amd seems accurate.
Hope that helps
Yes, it does have a “sleep sensitivity” setting in the Versa 2. See above to get there. What I can’t do is get the watch to record sleep time anytime before 12:00 am of that day..
Having the same exact issue please help
Agree, It was a waste of money. It does not track heart rate or sleep after 1 yr. Faulty Crappy product. Out of warranty.
Versa 2 won’t track sleep properly. 1.5 – 2 hrs each night not showing asleep. Can’t see sleep sensitivity in advanced settings. Any suggestions?
My Fitbit inspire stopped tracking sleep and activity shortly after 1 month of purchase.
I have done all the tests, resetting and sensitivities. Customer service is doing nothing.
Please help not tracking sleep or heartbeat
Should I sleep with fitbit on my wrist
Does it cause cancer
Is it safe
Of course, it safe!
You wont have cancer easily cos of wearing fitbit or any smartwatch.
I have had a similar issue with my versa but it was after about a year and a half. I have done everything Fitbit have suggested but still nothing. I think one of the sensors is broken but Fitbit won’t accept liability and give me another watch.
I stopped buying Fitbit product directly from their website because they make returning the product a nightmare! I like the fitbit product and just bought my 6th fitbit from Kohls. This way if it sucks (like some of their products) I can return to the store, rather than fitbit, without issued. Fitbit outsources their IT dept and they are horrible!!!!
For a Versa 2.
To put on sensitive. Go to your account. Then after the wording ‘ + Set Up a Device’ There is a Settings heading. Choose the first one of that list ‘ Activity & Wellness’, then choose the last option ‘Sleep’ and scroll to the bottom of that page and chose ‘Sleep Sensitivity’ and chose ‘Sensitive’. Good luck. Hope that works.
Exact same thing for me. If I go to bed around 10pm and wake up at 7am, It does not count the sleep from 10-12 pm at all. It starts working again around 1:45am.
I’m having the same exact problem.
Like everyone apparently
Just to redress balance a bit it’s working great for me for 2 years now and 5 years overall for Fitbit.
I have the Fitbit Versa and I had to call Fitbit many times because the sleep tracking is always off on my watch they make me reset it it works for a while and then does it again. I have had issues from the beginning whwn I purchased it I called Fitbut have numerous csse numbers all when its was under warranty they never offered to replace my watch they just waste my time resetting it now I want a replacement and they wont give it to me because after a year of complaining now its out of warranty and they won’t do anything for me. I was in warranty with all my calls.
I hate this company
I have a 4 and it never records my asleep. At best it starts around 1am or 2 am. Sometimes, but till 4 and sometime but at all. It’s very frustrating. All I really get accurately after my steps. I’m interesting in my sleep. I bought a new one due this reason. I’ve contacted Fitbit butt never get a resolution. Disappointed.
Alot of negative comments, but I have to say I have had my fitbit for almost a year now and have had zero issues. Tracks my sleep just fine.
My first Versa worked great. I got all my sleep analytics (I have premium membership). Now I have a Versa 2 and I get sleep analytics about twice month. I get my sleep schedule every night, but no analytics. I’ve tried all suggestions, contacted support, etc. No change. I have decided to cancel my premium membership since I got it just for the analytics. I think there is a problem with the sleep feature that the company is not able to fix, since I see so many others with the same complaint. This is so disappointing, I won’t be buying another Fitbit.
I have a Versa 2 and it will not track my sleep. I am very disappointed because that was a feature I was really interested in. Not sure if tracking steps is enough to put up with such a clumpy watch.
I have a fitbit and it too doesn’t track my sleep any more. I’m so disappointed because that was mostly why i bought it. Is there a different watch that works better i can buy next time. Never recommend this watch.
Just bought an Inspire 2 and I’m having the same issue with the wristlet not logging sleep and sleep score although it’s picked up by the app on the phone. Highly disappointed to see that this particular issue goes back to at least 2019 in several different models. I’ve tried changing to sensitive sleep mode, rebooting (several times), it’s “on wrist”, reinstalled the app, and turned on location settings. Interesting that over the course of 2 full years that the issue hasn’t been resolved.
I have a Versa 3. The battery died after 3 months but FitBit replaced it within 4 days. However, the original Versa 3 had stopped recording the sleep before 12 am and was dropping about 2 hrs of sleep a night. I figured it was due to the battery problem. But the new Versa 3 is doing the same thing, nothing before 12 am. I love Fitbit and have had earlier models which all worked well, so I am very disappointed with this very expensive purchase.
I too have an Inspire 2 and it has not given sleep stages or a sleep score since I got it – only basic sleep stages. I’ve contacted support and scoured the help forums for a solution – nothing has worked. After 10 days I got a replacement, but still have he same issue. It’s frustrating as the Inspire 2 claims to have just the right features for me.
What I find most frustrating is that the Fitbit support team simply keep saying the same thing by trotting out what is already written in the help guide. They have the worst tech support I’ve ever experienced!
Clearly from the number of issues identified on various fora there is a flaw with Fitbits algorithms which needs to be addressed. I hope things will improve now that Google has taken over!
My daughter has a Garmin – seems much better. I wish I’d bought one of those instead.
I have a versa 3 and I can’t find the sleep sensitivity setting anywhere. Can y’all be a bit more specific in where to find this? I see no advanced settings.
Don’t buy the Sense 2 either. It’s junk. Look out Garmin! Here I come!