the best smart rings for tracking sleep Smart rings are gaining traction as innovative health and wellness trackers, but the options available can be both exciting and overwhelming for potential buyers.
the best smart rings for tracking sleep
Understanding Smart Rings
Smart rings are compact wearable devices designed primarily for health tracking. Unlike traditional smartwatches, these rings offer a more discreet option for users who want to monitor their health metrics without the bulk of a larger device. As this category continues to evolve, it has attracted a variety of brands, some well-known and others emerging, leading to a diverse array of products on the market.
While the technology behind smart rings is improving, it is essential to note that this is still a niche market. Many devices may not yet offer the reliability and trustworthiness that consumers expect from more established categories like smartwatches or fitness trackers. This means that while there are some excellent options available, potential buyers should approach their choices with a discerning eye.
The Best Smart Ring for Most People
Oura Ring 4
The standout in the smart ring category is undoubtedly the Oura Ring 4. This device has undergone significant upgrades, including a new all-titanium design, enhanced battery life, and improved accuracy thanks to a refined sensor algorithm.
Score: 9
- Pros: More sizes, slimmer design, expanded auto workout detection, redesigned app, better battery life
- Cons: Subscription required to access all features, lack of a charging case
Priced at $349, the Oura Ring 4 remains a top choice for most users. While the subscription model may deter some, with a relatively low fee of $5.99 per month, the value it provides in terms of hardware quality, feature set, and user experience is hard to overlook. Oura has set a high standard in the smart ring space, influencing many competitors that have emerged in recent years.
The transition from the Oura Ring Gen 3 to the Oura Ring 4 has been primarily software-driven, with minor hardware tweaks. The new algorithms offer improved heart rate and blood oxygen monitoring, along with better automatic activity detection. The app has also been revamped to reduce clutter, making it easier for users to navigate their health data.
One of the more innovative features introduced is the Health Panels, which allow users to schedule blood tests at local Quest Diagnostics locations for $99. This feature provides insights into approximately 50 biomarkers related to cardiovascular and metabolic health, further enhancing the ring’s utility.
In addition to the metal versions, Oura has launched colorful ceramic options, starting at $499. While these ceramic rings are more durable due to their zirconia ceramic exterior, they are also thicker and heavier, which may affect comfort during prolonged wear.
Having tested multiple iterations of the Oura Ring since 2018, it is evident that the company has consistently improved accuracy, design, and comfort. The ongoing communication regarding research and scientific developments adds to the brand’s credibility in this emerging category.
Honorable Mentions
For those who find subscriptions a dealbreaker, there are several noteworthy alternatives to the Oura Ring.
Samsung Galaxy Ring
The Samsung Galaxy Ring is another strong contender, priced at $399.99. This device excels in hardware quality, featuring a sleek and lightweight design that is comfortable to wear.
Score: 7
- Pros: Excellent hardware, long battery life, slim design
- Cons: Android-only compatibility, accuracy can be inconsistent
While the Galaxy Ring does not require a subscription, unlocking its full potential can be costly, especially if users want to integrate it with other Samsung devices. The ring is best utilized within the Samsung ecosystem, particularly for users of the Galaxy Watch 8 or Ultra, as it offers extended battery life and additional features when paired with these devices.
However, as a first-generation product, the Galaxy Ring does exhibit some quirks, particularly in sleep tracking accuracy. Samsung’s AI-powered health features are still in development, leading to mixed results for users.
Ultrahuman Ring Air
Another alternative is the Ultrahuman Ring Air, which retails for $349. This device competes closely with the Oura Ring in terms of comfort and design but falls slightly short in accuracy.
The Ultrahuman Ring Air focuses more on fitness than wellness, offering features like smart alarms and cycle tracking without a subscription model. Instead, it uses “PowerPlugs,” which are add-on features that can be free or come with an additional fee, such as a planned atrial fibrillation detection feature costing $24 per year.
RingConn Gen 2 Air
Lastly, the RingConn Gen 2 Air is an entry-level option priced at $199. This device is the most affordable smart ring tested, offering a sleek design and improved comfort compared to its predecessor.
The RingConn Gen 2 Air provides broad accuracy in tracking health metrics and boasts impressive battery life, lasting around eight to nine days on a single charge. While the app integrates AI features, the effectiveness varies.
What’s Coming Next
The smart ring market is poised for further innovation, with several new products on the horizon. One notable entry is the Stream Ring from Sandbar, a company founded by former Meta employees. Available for preorder at $249 for silver and $349 for gold, this ring features a black resin band interior and an exterior button for capturing voice notes. It also includes a personalized AI chatbot and promises all-day battery life, with a tentative release set for summer 2026.
Additionally, Pebble is entering the smart ring space with the Index 01, available for preorder at $75 ahead of its March 2026 launch. Unlike other smart rings focused on health tracking, the Index 01 is designed for capturing voice notes, setting timers, and creating reminders. The battery is said to last a couple of years but is not rechargeable, meaning users will need to replace the ring once the battery dies.
Conclusion
As the smart ring market continues to evolve, consumers have a growing selection of devices to choose from. The Oura Ring 4 remains the top recommendation for most users due to its combination of reliability, accuracy, and extensive features. However, alternatives like the Samsung Galaxy Ring, Ultrahuman Ring Air, and RingConn Gen 2 Air offer viable options for those seeking different functionalities or pricing structures.
With new entrants like the Stream Ring and Pebble’s Index 01 on the horizon, the future of smart rings looks promising, potentially expanding their capabilities and appeal to a broader audience.
Source: Original report
Was this helpful?
Last Modified: December 11, 2025 at 11:45 am
2 views
