When it comes to diagnosing sleep apnea, you have two main options: an in-lab polysomnography (PSG) or an at-home sleep test (HST). Both are clinically validated, but they differ in important ways.
In-Lab Sleep Study (PSG)
Pros:Gold standard for sleep disorder diagnosisCan detect a wider range of sleep disordersTechnician present to troubleshoot
Cons:Costs $1,500-$3,000 or moreRequires sleeping in an unfamiliar lab20+ sensors attached to your bodyLong wait times (often weeks to months)Results take 1-2 weeks
At-Home Sleep Test
Pros:Sleep in your own bedCosts $249-$500No wait time — order online, kit ships in 24 hoursResults in 48 hoursMore natural sleep data
Cons:Primarily designed for obstructive sleep apneaMay need follow-up lab study for complex cases
Who Should Choose What?
At-home testing is ideal for:Adults with suspected obstructive sleep apneaPeople who want fast, convenient resultsThose without access to a nearby sleep lab
In-lab testing may be needed for:Suspected central sleep apneaOther sleep disorders (narcolepsy, parasomnias)Patients with significant cardiac or pulmonary disease
For most people, an at-home sleep test is the best first step.