Popular Smart Rings
The Oura Ring, particularly the Gen 3 version, is currently the most well-known smart ring. It offers sophisticated sleep tracking, recovery guidance, and overall health monitoring, including stress and menstrual cycle tracking. One editor even reported that wearing an Oura Ring helped identify a pregnancy. Oura has also established partnerships with brands such as Equinox, Therabody, Strava, Natural Cycles, and Peloton. The ring is available at retailers like Best Buy and Amazon, and it offers Apple Watch integration for those who want to wear both devices concurrently.
The Samsung Galaxy Ring, launched this year, is another notable addition to the market. Early testing by Tom’s Guide has provided insights into how it compares with existing options like Oura. Other alternatives include the Ultrahuman Ring Air, which tracks sleep, recovery, movement, heart rate, and skin temperature, while being smaller and lighter than competitors. For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, the Amovan Smart Ring is available, although some users have noted variability in data accuracy.
The smart ring market is evolving quickly, with new entries such as the athlete-focused Helio Ring from Amazfit and rumors of an Apple smart ring. This growing competition indicates that additional advancements in functionality and design are likely in the near future.
Considerations Before Buying
Choosing the right size is critical for a smart ring, as a proper fit ensures accurate tracking and comfort. Brands typically provide sizing kits, but ring sizes are not universally standardized, so using the kit specific to the brand being purchased is essential.
Compatibility is another factor. For example, the Samsung Galaxy Ring requires Android 11 or later, so verifying that the device aligns with your operating system is important. Additionally, some smart rings may require a subscription to access full functionality. Oura, for instance, charges $5.99 per month for complete access to fitness metrics, while the Samsung Galaxy Ring does not require a subscription.
With the competition in the smart ring space increasing, ongoing developments in features, usability, and compatibility are expected to continue.
Conclusion
Smart rings provide a discreet and versatile way to monitor health, fitness, and notifications, combining the benefits of a smartwatch with a compact, finger-worn design. As more brands enter the market, options are expanding, and advancements in technology and tracking capabilities are expected to grow, making smart rings an increasingly appealing choice for those seeking a low-maintenance, all-in-one wearable.
