Smartwatches have traditionally been the leading wearable for fitness tracking, but in recent years, the unsung hero known as the smart ring has started to make waves. These minimalist devices lack screens and offer a subtler way to monitor your health day-to-day, and thanks to our dedicated experts, weâre here to highlight which smart rings deserve your attention.
With the landscape of wearables constantly evolving, todayâs top smart rings serve as more than just companions to the best smartwatches. They stand as impressive fitness trackers in their own right, delivering vital metrics such as heart rate, step count, and blood oxygen levelsâcrucial for tracking your fitness progress.
In a similar vein to other fitness wearables, our tech team rigorously tests each smart ring, wearing them around the clock. By doing this, they gather firsthand insights on performance, comparing results against high-end tracking devices, including chest-worn heart rate monitors.
A smart ring retains its spot on our list only if it has consistently impressed our reviewers, guaranteeing that whichever model you choose is indeed a high-quality device.
Continue reading to explore our top selections from brands such as Oura, Samsung, Ultrahuman, RingConn, and more.
Top Smart Ring Reviews
1. Oura Ring 4 â Best Overall
Pros
- Extended battery duration
- Invaluable insights
- Extremely comfortable to wear
- Available in various colors
Cons
- Scratches easily
- Requires a subscription for full features
Price When Reviewed: From $349
Best Prices Today:
$349
$399
Despite the influx of competitors, the Oura Ring 4 stands out with an upgraded design, enhanced battery performance, and a companion app that exemplifies the art of presenting data. With the addition of a sleek ceramic option, itâs still the smart ring champion to beat.
The new model integrates titanium on the inner side, coupled with a refined sensor that eliminates the prominence found in the Ring Gen 3, enhancing comfort significantly.
Although it continues to track similar metrics to its predecessor and other smart rings, the accuracy in heart rate monitoring has improved, particularly when sensors arenât optimally positioned.
To fully utilize the companion app, a subscription is necessary, providing a wealth of glanceable stats and insights.
Who should consider Oura Ring 4?
This is perfect for those seeking a blend of fitness intelligence, durable battery life, and fashionable design.
Oura Ring 4: Additional Considerations
Ongoing subscription costs may accumulate over time.
Read our full Oura Ring 4 review
2. Samsung Galaxy Ring â Best Subscription-Free
Pros
- Chic and comfy
- Solid user experience
- Reliable core tracking
- Great charging case
Cons
- Inconsistent stress tracking
- Pricey
- Does not feel metallic
Price When Reviewed: $399.99
Best Prices Today:
$399.99
$399.99
Though there are numerous options available, no brand has truly perfected the smart ring yet â itâs still a work in progress. However, the Galaxy Ring is currently the best all-around option available.
As a first-generation product, Samsung has succeeded in delivering a solid overall experience. The aesthetics of the ring is appealing, and it exhibits greater durability than competitors, ensuring it retains its stylish appearance, despite not feeling like titanium.
Fitness tracking is predominantly reliable, though the stress monitoring can be sporadic. Battery life is impressive, backed by an outstanding charging case.
While it commands one of the highest price tags in the market, it abstains from any subscription fees.
Who should consider Samsung Galaxy Ring?
Ideal for individuals wanting a top-tier smart ring without subscription fees, particularly advantageous if you own a Galaxy Watch.
Samsung Galaxy Ring: Additional Considerations
Reports of long-term durability issues have surfaced.
Read our full Samsung Galaxy Ring review
3. RingConn Gen 2 â Best Battery Life
Pros
- Sleek and lightweight
- Exceptional battery longevity
- Reliable core tracking
- Cost-effective with no subscription
Cons
- Can get scratched easily
- Battery drains with sleep apnea monitoring
- Some features are still in beta
Price When Reviewed: $299
Best Prices Today:
If constant recharging of your tech is a hassle, RingConn Gen 2 is the smart ring for you.
It surpasses its competitors with a battery life of up to 12 days. Plus, the charging case can recharge the ring up to an astonishing 15-20 times.
Comfortable to wear around the clock, the RingConn Gen 2 does, however, have a design that scratches easily, which is disappointing.
While it has solid core tracking and is one of the more affordable options (currently available via Kickstarter) without any subscription fees, its software experience isnât without issues, some features are still undergoing beta testing but expect improvements over time.
Who should consider RingConn Gen 2?
Ideal for those who prioritize battery life in a smart ring.
RingConn Gen 2: Additional Considerations
Its construction isnât as hardy as other smart rings.
Read our full RingConn Gen 2 review
4. RingConn Gen 2 Air â Best Budget
Pros
- Stylish slim design
- Good battery life
- Strong core tracking capabilities
- Budget-friendly with no subscription
Cons
- Data syncing can be slow
- Limited color options
- App requires further refinement
Price When Reviewed: $199
Best Prices Today:
$199
The RingConn Gen 2 Air captures everything commendable about the RingConn Gen 2 while making it even more budget-friendly.
It swaps out the titanium for a sleek stainless steel aesthetic and remains one of the most elegant smart rings on the market. With a battery life exceeding a week, it does forgo the handy charging case found with the pricier Gen 2.
Feature-wise, it lacks the new sleep apnea feature but still excels in tracking essentials like sleep, steps, and heart rate, and pairs with an AI-driven chatbot that delivers more personalized insights, albeit lacking the finesse of rival devices.
If youâre looking for cost-effective excellence in a smart ring without the burden of a subscription, this is the optimal choice.
Who should consider RingConn Gen 2 Air?
Those on a budget seeking excellent features without overspending.
RingConn Gen 2 Air: Additional Considerations
More vibrant color options are available in other smart rings.
Read our full RingConn Gen 2 Air review
5. Oura Ring Gen 3 â Best Previous-Gen
Pros
- Simple yet elegant design
- Outstanding software experience
- Focused on recovery metrics
Cons
- Prone to scratching
- Needs a paid subscription to access full potential
- Limited in workout tracking
Price When Reviewed: From $299
Best Prices Today:
Though the Ring 4 leads this list, Ouraâs Gen 3 model is still available and offers affordability for those not ready to invest in the latest model.
It boasts a wider variety of shapes and colors compared to competitors, catering to diverse preferences. Plus, the software experience ranks among the best, prioritizing recovery metrics over arbitrary targets.
However, like its successors, it also scratches easily, and a subscription service is necessary for full functionality.
Who should consider Oura Ring Gen 3?
Those looking for Ouraâs benefits but at a lower price point.
Oura Ring Gen 3: Additional Considerations
It has shown to accumulate scratches more readily than other tested rings.
Read our full Oura Ring Gen 3 review
6. Amazfit Helio Ring â Best Value
Pros
- Unique and eye-catching design
- Strong core tracking capabilities
- Revamped mobile app experience
- Budget-friendly pricing
Cons
- Only available in three sizes and one color
- A bit bulky
- Battery life diminishes with active tracking
Price When Reviewed: $199.99
Best Prices Today:
$199.99
The Amazfit Helio Ring is Zepp Healthâs first smart ring, entering a competitive market and emerging as one of the more economical choices, devoid of subscription costs.
However, sizing options are limited, available in just one color. While it might not be the slimmest, it holds up well against water, rated for depths up to 100 meters.
It can effectively monitor steps, sleep, stress, and heart rate, performing admirably in these areas. When paired with a compatible Amazfit smartwatch, it bridges data gaps during workouts, particularly for its main Readiness metric, which is neatly displayed in Zepp Healthâs new companion app.
The promised four days of battery life seems ambitious based on our tests, but if youâre after an affordable smart ring with fitting size, it is a strong contender.
Who should consider Amazfit Helio Ring?
Bargain-hunting smart ring enthusiasts.
Amazfit Helio Ring: Additional Considerations
Battery life isnât as impressive as competitive options, leading to more frequent recharges.
Read our full Amazfit Helio Ring review
7. Ultrahuman Ring Air â Best Comfort
Pros
- Very lightweight and comfortable
- Reliable tracking for fitness and sleep
- No subscription fees
- Handy notification features
Cons
- Can get scratched easily
- Not suited for intensive workout tracking
Price When Reviewed: $349
As one of the most balanced devices on the market, the Ultrahuman Ring Air offers an affordable design without any subscription fees, making it a compelling choice.
Its stylish design and comfortable fit are appealing, but like many, it does face issues with wear and tear.
It delivers strong basic tracking and includes a solid companion app that presents data in a user-friendly way, although it relies partially on third-party integrations for comprehensive tracking.
Battery life does fall short compared to some competitors, and it features a cradle instead of a more convenient charging case, which impacts its rankings.
Who should consider Ultrahuman Ring Air?
Individuals who prioritize comfort in their fitness tracking devices.
Ultrahuman Ring Air: Additional Considerations
Its durability may not withstand strenuous workouts effectively.
Read our full Ultrahuman Ring Air review
8. Circular Ring 2 â Best Advanced Tracking
Pros
- Comfortable for all-day wear
- Unmatched ECG sensor
- Comprehensive core tracking with multiple features
- No subscription required
Cons
- Syncing data can be slow
- The app could be more intuitive
- Future features require virtual currency
Price When Reviewed: From $379
Best Prices Today:
While we appreciated the affordability and lack of subscription with the Circular Ring Slim, it previously lacked critical features for serious use. Thankfully, the updated Circular Ring 2 addresses previous shortcomings, delivering an exceptional product that excels in various aspects.
Maintaining its subscription-free approach, itâs a major plus for those wishing to minimize expenses. Users donât feel as though they miss out on features, with the Ring 2 providing top-notch health and fitness tracking. It tracks multiple sports and significantly enhances sleep monitoring effectiveness, aiding in developing a proper circadian rhythm.
Notably, the Ring 2 becomes the first in the market to offer an ECG sensor. For anyone with heart irregularities, this can be crucial for identifying potential issues swiftly and seeking help. Its compact design promotes comfortable wear.
Despite a cluttered app experience, the hardwareâs performance more than compensates for it.
Who should consider Circular Ring 2?
Fitness enthusiasts in need of a comfortable smart ring featuring ECG capabilities.
Circular Ring 2: Additional Considerations
The appâs user interface requires improvements for enhanced user experience.
Read our full Circular Ring 2 review
Other Smart Rings Reviewed
This emerging market has seen limited offerings thus far, with only a handful making it to our testing lab. The prominent entry formerly eclipsed by a newer model is the Circular Ring Slim. While it had potential, its fitness tracking capabilities were inadequate for broad recommendations.
With the release of Circular Ring 2, it provides an enhanced option for those looking for advanced features without incurring subscription fees. As new brands enter the fray, this guide will remain updated to reflect any changes in ratings or offerings.
Mike Sawh
Smart Ring News That May Impact Your Purchase
Just when it seemed Samsungâs battery issues were behind them (remember the Galaxy Note 7?), a concerning situation has emerged with the Galaxy Ring. A user, who happened to be a tech YouTuber, experienced extreme swelling of the ringâs battery, necessitating medical assistance to remove it, which even affected his ability to board flights.
A trend of similar incidents has surfaced on Reddit, prompting caution for prospective buyers. Taking care of the ring involves avoiding exposure to high temperatures, sea water, and prolonged charging.
Samsung is actively investigating these reported cases, although the scale of the problem does not seem to warrant a recall at this time.
In other updates, Oura has unveiled an array of ceramic options in its Ring 4 series and now provides a purchased charging case to keep devices powered. This range of choices broadens consumer options, paired with the introduction of AI-enhanced Oura Advisor delivering tailored insights.
Are Better Smart Ring Deals Available?
As this sector is still evolving, promotions on smart rings are not very common. However, if deals do arise, our real-time deals system is designed to keep you informed. Prices are automatically monitored so you know which retailers offer the best deals.
In recent times, smart rings have seen increasing discounts during significant retail events like Black Friday and Amazon Prime Day. If you can hold off, you might score tremendous savings during such occasions.
While premier smart rings tend to be costly, if youâre on a tighter budget, consider exploring our best budget smartwatches, which might meet your needs without the focus on a ring.
Our Smart Ring Testing Methodology
To provide an in-depth overview of each smart ring we review, we subject every model to extensive testing under the same rigorous conditions as the latest smartwatches. Each is worn for a minimum of a week, often much longer, and analyzed through various workouts, compared against reliable devices such as chest-worn heart rate monitors.
Why Trust Tech Advisor for Smart Ring Reviews?
Tech Advisor has been at the forefront of smartwatch technology since the inception of the first Apple Watch, cultivating a deep understanding of how wearable tech has evolved. As the smart ring rises in popularity, our legacy adds valuable insight, ensuring you receive trustworthy advice for every purchasing decision.
Author of This Article
Chris Martin, Tech Advisorâs Managing Editor, is discerning about the fitness wearables he endorses. Rejecting flashy marketing, he focuses on the genuine value of each item, ensuring only those smart rings that meet high standards make this list, supported by Mike Sawh, our freelance wearable expert and marathon enthusiast.
How to Select the Optimal Smart Ring
Without the visual display typical of smartwatches, smart rings require a different evaluation, hinging primarily on health or fitness tracking interests. For avid fitness individuals, rings should be durable and resistant to scratches, particularly important for weight training scenarios.
Mike Sawh
Conversely, if monitoring sleep quality is your priority, opt for a smart ring that promises accurate data and durable battery life to avoid interruptions overnight.
Consider whether ongoing subscriptions are required, as these can accumulate into significant costs, making it a factor to weigh for budget-conscious individuals.
For additional insights, please check our detailed reviews of each smart ring that piques your interest.
FAQ
1.
What is the purpose of a smart ring?
The core aim of a smart ring is to replicate the functionality of a smartwatch or fitness tracker on your finger.
These devices are equipped with sensors that can track various metrics, including steps, heart rate, sleep quality, and even stress and blood oxygen levels.
A smart ring serves as an inconspicuous, lightweight means of collecting data on your daily activities, freeing your wrist for a standard watch.
Alternatively, they can be used alongside a smartwatch; in Samsungâs case, the Galaxy Ring can enhance tracking accuracy and increase battery longevity by up to 30%.
2.
Is a smart ring worth the investment?
The value of a smart ring hinges on several factors. Primarily, consider whether you want a fitness tracker on your finger that often costs more than many smartwatches.
Is there a specific design that appeals to you, given that aesthetics play a significant role?
Lastly, are you okay with the absence of a display, necessitating reliance on a companion app for insights?
Typically, smart rings also boast longer battery life than many smartwatches, needing charges less frequently, approximately once a week.
However, due to their compact nature, smart rings may not offer the extensive data tracking capabilities or automatic activity recognition often found in smartwatches.
3.
What are the drawbacks of smart rings?
As with any product, smart rings also have their downsides, namely their higher price point compared to most smartwatches. Some models include subscription fees, which add to long-term costs.
Purchasing the correct size is crucial, which can complicate the buying process, though many brands offer free sizing kits. Accurate sizing is pivotal for precise tracking and user comfort.
The absence of a display limits functionality since users must consult their smartphones for information, although select models may vibrate for alerts.
Furthermore, most smart rings lack NFC capability for contactless payments, which is commonly available on smartwatches.
4.
Which finger is suitable for wearing a smart ring?
Generally, you can choose any finger, but most manufacturers advise against the thumb.
Itâs recommended to wear your smart ring on your non-dominant hand, with the index finger often cited as the best choice for optimal tracking. This placement is particularly beneficial for models like the Galaxy Ring which utilizes pinch gestures as part of its features.
Positioning it on your index finger also helps avoid interference with wedding rings, should you wear one.
