Smart rings are gaining popularity as a discreet alternative to traditional fitness trackers. While their emergence presents new options, potential buyers should note that the current selection may lack the level of reliability found in more established gadget categories like smartwatches or headphones.
At present, most smart rings serve primarily as health trackers, featuring capabilities suited for sleep monitoring. However, they typically do not offer smart alarms or push notifications, limiting their appeal to casual athletes or wellness-focused individuals. In contrast, serious fitness enthusiasts might find smartwatches or fitness trackers more suitable, while smart rings may serve as supplementary devices. Additionally, smart rings can pose challenges for weightlifters since they may scratch against gym equipment.
Factors to consider when evaluating smart rings include sizing, design, durability, battery performance, and app functionality. Smart rings must accommodate finger swelling and change in temperature, and users should inquire about size ranges and return policies. Versatile and aesthetically pleasing designs are also desirable since many consumers expect smart rings to dual function as jewelry. Durability is essential to prevent scratches from everyday wear, and battery life is particularly important for applications like sleep tracking. Finally, the accompanying apps must be easy to update and sync with larger health platforms.
Regarding available products, the Oura Ring 4 is currently highlighted as the best smart ring option for most users due to its comprehensive features, though it requires a subscription for full access. Alternatives include the Samsung Galaxy Ring, which offers excellent hardware, albeit with some first-generation quirks, and the Ultrahuman Ring Air, which is noted for its comfort and fitness-centric design without a subscription. The RingConn Gen 2 Air is a budget-friendly option featuring good battery life.
With the smart ring market still evolving, questions remain about how new entrants will stack up against established products and how they will cater to user needs moving forward.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/tech/647901/best-smart-rings