Smart Ring Review: Is Oura Ring 4 Worth It?

Are you wondering if the Oura Ring 4 lives up to the hype? This smart ring combines advanced health tracking with a sleek, minimalist design, making it a standout choice for anyone focused on wellness. It excels in areas like sleep monitoring, readiness tracking, and even cardiovascular health insights. With features tailored for women’s health and a user-friendly app, Oura offers a comprehensive tracking experience that’s hard to beat.

The smart ring market is booming, with a projected growth rate of over 24.1% annually from 2024 to 2032. While the Oura Ring 4 dominates in health tracking, luxury enthusiasts might find the 2024 NEW VERTU AI DIAMOND RING – SHADOW PAIR EDITION irresistible. This premium option blends cutting-edge health monitoring with exquisite craftsmanship, offering a unique alternative for those who value both technology and elegance. In this smart ring review, the Vertu AI Diamond Ring stands out for its seamless integration of luxury and advanced health features, making it a remarkable choice for discerning individuals.

Key Takeaways

• The Oura Ring 4 helps track health, like sleep and activity.

• Its slim design and light titanium make it comfy to wear.

• You can wear it all day, even while sleeping or exercising.

• It has better sensors to collect accurate data about your body.

• It tracks heart rate, sleep stages, and other health details well.

• The battery lasts up to six days, so you charge it less.

• You need a subscription to use all features, so plan for that cost.

Key Features of the Oura Ring 4

Advanced Health Tracking

Sleep monitoring and insights

If you're serious about improving your sleep, the Oura Ring 4 is a game-changer. It tracks everything from sleep duration to restfulness and efficiency, giving you a complete picture of your nightly habits. The ring also provides insights into your sleep stages, helping you understand how much time you spend in deep, light, and REM sleep. Plus, its symptom radar can detect potential illnesses by analyzing your sleep patterns alongside other health metrics. This makes it more than just a tracker—it’s a health tracking tool that keeps you informed and proactive.

Activity and readiness tracking

The Oura Ring 4 doesn’t just stop at sleep. It automatically tracks over 40 activities, from yoga to running, identifying your movement patterns with impressive accuracy. You’ll also love its readiness score, which combines data like heart rate variability and sleep quality to tell you how prepared your body is for the day. Whether you're planning a workout or just want to manage stress, this feature helps you make smarter decisions.

New Updates in the Oura Ring 4

Enhanced sensors for better accuracy

The Oura Ring 4 comes with enhanced sensors that take accuracy to the next level. Validated by research institutions, these sensors use Smart Sensing technology to provide personalized health tracking. They continuously collect biometric data, including resting heart rate and sleep stages, ensuring you get precise and actionable insights. This upgrade makes the Oura Ring 4 a standout choice for anyone looking for reliable health data.

Additional health metrics (e.g., blood oxygen levels, temperature tracking)

One of the most exciting upgrades is the addition of blood oxygen sensing and a temperature sensing feature. These metrics are crucial for monitoring your overall health and detecting early signs of illness. The ring also introduces stress tracking and meal logging, making it a more comprehensive health companion. Women’s health tracking has also been improved, offering features like cycle insights and pregnancy tracking.

App Integration and User Experience

Compatibility with smartphones and apps

The Oura Ring 4 seamlessly integrates with your smartphone, making it easy to access your data anytime. It’s compatible with both iOS and Android devices, ensuring a smooth user experience. The app syncs effortlessly, so you won’t have to worry about losing any important health data.

Insights and recommendations provided by the app

The Oura app doesn’t just display numbers—it gives you actionable recommendations. Whether it’s suggesting mindfulness exercises to manage stress or advising you to take it easy based on your readiness score, the app acts like a personal health coach. These insights make the Oura Ring 4 more than just a gadget; it’s a tool that helps you live better every day.

Performance and Accuracy

How Accurate is the Oura Ring 4?

Sleep tracking accuracy compared to competitors

When it comes to sleep tracking, the Oura Ring 4 sets a high standard. Its advanced sensors, including an 18-path multi-wavelength photoplethysmography subsystem, ensure precise data collection. You’ll find that it tracks sleep stages like deep, light, and REM with impressive accuracy. However, some users note that it occasionally underreports deep and REM sleep stages. Compared to other smart rings, like the Samsung Galaxy Ring, the Oura Ring 4 stands out for its reliability. While competitors may experience signal dropouts, the Oura Ring 4 consistently delivers dependable results, even in challenging conditions.

Tip: If you’re a parent or someone with irregular sleep patterns, the Oura Ring 4’s ability to adapt to unique situations makes it a great choice.

Heart rate and activity tracking reliability

The Oura Ring 4 excels in heart rate and activity tracking. Its Smart Sensing technology ensures continuous and accurate monitoring of your resting heart rate and activity levels. Users have praised its improved sensor pathways, which enhance accuracy for individuals with darker skin tones—a significant upgrade from earlier models. While the ring is highly reliable, some users report occasional misinterpretation of everyday movements as exercise. Despite this, the Oura Ring 4 remains one of the most accurate options for tracking your daily health metrics.

Real-World Performance

User feedback on daily use

In real-world use, the Oura Ring 4 shines. Its lightweight titanium body and re-engineered sensors make it incredibly comfortable to wear. Many users say they forget they’re even wearing it! The app provides a wealth of data, from readiness scores to stress levels, all presented in an easy-to-understand format. You’ll also appreciate the personalized advice it offers, helping you make informed decisions about your health. However, some users have noted minor inaccuracies in activity tracking, particularly when it comes to distinguishing between casual movements and workouts.

Consistency of data over time

The Oura Ring 4 is built for consistency. Its upgraded sensors ensure there are no gaps in data collection, a common issue in earlier versions. Over time, you’ll notice that the ring maintains its accuracy, providing reliable insights day after day. The extended battery life—lasting nearly six days—means you won’t have to worry about frequent charging, allowing you to focus on your health without interruptions.

Comfort and Design

Wearability and Fit

Ring sizes and customization options

Finding the right fit for your Oura Ring 4 is simple. The brand offers a sizing kit to help you choose the perfect size before committing to the final product. This ensures the ring feels snug but not restrictive, making it ideal for all-day wear. You can also pick from multiple sizes, so whether you have slender fingers or larger hands, there’s an option for you. Customization doesn’t stop there. You can select from various finishes and colors, allowing you to match the ring to your personal style.

Comfort during sleep and daily activities

Wearing the Oura Ring 4 feels natural, even during sleep. Its lightweight titanium build ensures you barely notice it, whether you’re tossing and turning at night or typing away during the day. The smooth inner surface prevents irritation, making it a great choice for sensitive skin. Plus, the ring’s durability means you can wear it during workouts, showers, or even while swimming without worrying about damage. It’s a wearable designed to blend seamlessly into your lifestyle.

Aesthetic Appeal

Design options and materials

The Oura Ring 4 stands out with its brushed finish and modern design. Unlike traditional rings with rounded edges, this one features squared-off sides and sharper lines, giving it a contemporary look. It’s like wearing a sleek wedding band that doubles as a health tracker. You can choose from materials like silver, black, or gold finishes, each adding a touch of elegance to your outfit. Whether you’re at a formal event or hitting the gym, the Oura Ring 4 complements any setting.

How it compares to traditional rings or other wearables

When compared to traditional rings, the Oura Ring 4’s design feels more futuristic. Its brushed finish and squared edges make it look less like jewelry and more like a tech accessory. However, it’s bulkier than some competitors, like the Samsung Galaxy Ring, which is thinner and lighter. The Galaxy Ring also features a concave design that resists scratches better. In terms of size, the Oura Ring 4 measures 7.9mm wide and 2.88mm thick, making it slightly less sleek. Despite this, its modern aesthetic and functionality make it a standout choice in the wearable market.

Battery Life and Durability

Battery Performance

How long the battery lasts on a single charge

When it comes to battery life, the Oura Ring 4 doesn’t disappoint. On average, you can expect it to last just under six days with regular use. If you turn off features like SpO2 tracking, the ring can stretch to about 6.5 days, leaving you with 25% battery after six days and 19% the following morning. This is a noticeable improvement over the Gen 3 model, which typically lasts around five days.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the battery life based on user reviews:

This extended battery life means fewer interruptions for charging, letting you focus on your health goals without constant reminders to plug in.

Charging time and ease of use

Charging the Oura Ring 4 is quick and hassle-free. It uses a wireless charging dock that’s compact and easy to carry. You can fully charge the ring in about 80 minutes, making it convenient to top up while you’re getting ready for the day. The dock’s magnetic alignment ensures the ring stays in place during charging, so you don’t have to worry about misalignment or interruptions.

Tip: Charge your ring during short breaks or while showering to keep it ready for action without disrupting your routine.

Build Quality and Durability

Materials used and resistance to wear and tear

The Oura Ring 4 is built to last. Made from durable titanium, it resists scratches and maintains its sleek appearance even with daily wear. The interior is non-allergenic, making it safe for sensitive skin. Whether you’re typing, exercising, or going about your day, the ring holds up well against wear and tear. Its lightweight design also ensures it doesn’t feel bulky or uncomfortable.

Water resistance and suitability for different environments

You’ll love the Oura Ring 4’s water resistance. It’s rated to withstand depths of up to 100 meters, so you can wear it while swimming, showering, or even diving without worry. This makes it a versatile choice for active lifestyles and ensures it performs well in various environments. Whether you’re sweating it out at the gym or relaxing by the pool, the ring stays reliable and functional.

Note: The combination of premium materials and robust water resistance makes the Oura Ring 4 a dependable companion for everyday use.

Price and Value

Cost of the Oura Ring 4

Price breakdown and subscription fees

The Oura Ring 4 offers a range of pricing options to suit different preferences:

• Base models in silver and black start at $349.

• A brushed silver and stealth finish costs $399.

• Premium finishes like gold and rose gold are priced at $499.

To unlock the full potential of the ring, you’ll need a membership. The first month is free, but after that, it’s $5.99 per month or $69.99 annually. Without a subscription, you’ll only have access to basic features, which limits the ring’s functionality.

How it compares to other wearables in the same price range

When comparing the Oura Ring 4 to other fitness trackers and smart rings, its price and subscription model stand out. Here’s a quick look:

While the Oura Ring 4 is on the higher end of the price spectrum, its advanced health tracking features and sleek design justify the cost for many users. However, the subscription fee may be a drawback for those looking for a one-time purchase option.

Is It Worth the Investment?

Value for money based on features and performance

The Oura Ring 4 delivers exceptional value for its price. Its advanced sensors, detailed sleep tracking, and readiness score make it a standout among fitness trackers. The addition of blood oxygen and temperature tracking further enhances its appeal. While the subscription fee adds to the overall cost, the insights and recommendations provided by the app make it a worthwhile investment for those serious about their health.

Who would benefit most from the Oura Ring 4?

If you’re someone who prioritizes health and wellness, the Oura Ring 4 is a great fit. It’s perfect for individuals who want detailed insights into their sleep, activity, and overall readiness. Athletes, busy professionals, and even parents juggling hectic schedules can benefit from its personalized recommendations. However, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or prefer wearables without subscription fees, you might want to explore alternatives.

Comparison to Competitors

Oura Ring 4 vs. Other Smart Rings

Key differences in features and design

When comparing the Oura Ring 4 to other smart rings, you’ll notice some clear distinctions. Here’s a quick breakdown:

The Oura Ring 4 stands out for its advanced health tracking and sleek design. However, its subscription model and slightly bulkier build might not appeal to everyone.

Strengths and weaknesses compared to alternatives

Here’s how the Oura Ring 4 stacks up against its competitors:

• Strengths of Oura Ring 4:

  • Highly accurate sleep tracking.

  • Excellent health insights, including stress tracking.

  • Extensive app integrations and improved sensor accuracy.

• Weaknesses of Oura Ring 4:

  • Shorter battery life compared to some competitors.

  • Slightly less comfortable design.

Other smart rings, like the Samsung Galaxy Ring, offer better battery life and a more comfortable fit. However, they often lack the comprehensive health insights that Oura provides.

Oura Ring 4 vs. Vertu's 2024 NEW VERTU AI DIAMOND RING – SHADOW PAIR EDITION

Luxury and craftsmanship in smart rings

If you’re looking for a blend of luxury and technology, the Vertu AI Diamond Ring is in a league of its own. Crafted with materials like 18K gold, diamonds, and turquoise, it’s more than just a wearable—it’s a statement piece. While the Oura Ring 4 focuses on functionality, Vertu’s ring combines exquisite craftsmanship with cutting-edge health tracking.

Advanced health tracking and unique features of Vertu's ring

The Vertu AI Diamond Ring offers features like non-invasive blood glucose monitoring and 24/7 sensorless heart rate tracking. It also includes a pivoting design for added elegance. While Oura excels in app integration and readiness tracking, Vertu’s ring appeals to those who value both health insights and high-end design.

Oura Ring 4 vs. Smartwatches

Advantages of a ring over a watch

The Oura Ring 4 offers several advantages over traditional smartwatches. Its compact design makes it less intrusive, and its titanium build ensures durability. With up to 8 days of battery life, it outlasts many smartwatches. Plus, it tracks sleep and cardiovascular health with impressive accuracy.

Tom Hale, Oura’s CEO, highlights the ring’s advancements in comfort and personalization, making it a strong alternative to bulkier wearables. You’ll also appreciate its ability to track 40 different workouts and sync with apps like Strava.

Limitations of the Oura Ring compared to smartwatches

That said, the Oura Ring 4 has its limitations. Its exercise tracking is basic compared to smartwatches, which offer detailed metrics for running and other activities. If you’re looking for precise step counts or calorie burn, a smartwatch might be a better fit.

Note: The Oura Ring 4 excels in health tracking but falls short in areas like advanced exercise metrics, where smartwatches dominate.

Pros and Cons of the Oura Ring 4

Pros

Advanced health tracking features

The Oura Ring 4 shines when it comes to health tracking. It offers detailed insights into your sleep, activity, and readiness levels. You’ll appreciate how it tracks over 40 activities and provides personalized recommendations based on your data. The addition of blood oxygen and temperature tracking makes it a powerful tool for monitoring your overall well-being. If staying on top of your health is a priority, this ring delivers.

Sleek and comfortable design

You’ll love how the Oura Ring 4 feels on your finger. Its lightweight titanium build ensures it’s comfortable enough to wear all day and even while you sleep. The smooth interior prevents irritation, making it a great choice for sensitive skin. Plus, its modern design means it looks good whether you’re at the gym or a formal event. It’s a wearable that blends style with functionality.

Long battery life

The battery life of the Oura Ring 4 is another big win. It lasts up to six days on a single charge, so you won’t have to worry about constant recharging. The wireless charging dock makes it easy to top up quickly. This extended battery life lets you focus on your health goals without interruptions.

Cons

High price point

The Oura Ring 4 isn’t cheap. With prices ranging from $349 to $499, it’s a significant investment. While its features justify the cost for many, the price might feel steep if you’re on a budget. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, you might need to explore alternatives.

Limited display and interaction compared to smartwatches

Unlike smartwatches, the Oura Ring 4 doesn’t have a screen. This means you’ll need to rely on the app to view your data. While the app is user-friendly, some users might miss the convenience of checking stats directly on the device. If you prefer a wearable with more interactive features, a smartwatch might be a better fit.

Subscription fees (if applicable)

The subscription model is a common complaint among Oura users. Many feel that essential features, like detailed health insights, should be included with the device purchase. Paying $5.99 per month or $69.99 annually can feel like a barrier, especially when these features are considered basic by some. If you’re not a fan of ongoing fees, this might be a drawback.

Tip: If you’re considering the Oura Ring 4, factor in the subscription cost to see if it fits your budget.

So, is the Oura Ring 4 worth it? Absolutely, especially if you’re serious about health tracking. It offers a sleek titanium design, long battery life, and compatibility with both iOS and Android. You’ll love its ability to monitor heart rate, sleep stages, and even menstrual cycles with impressive accuracy. These features make it a standout in the smart ring market.

If you’re looking for something more luxurious, the 2024 NEW VERTU AI DIAMOND RING – SHADOW PAIR EDITION is a stunning alternative. It combines advanced health tracking with exquisite craftsmanship, making it perfect for those who value both technology and elegance. Whether you choose Oura or Vertu, you’re investing in cutting-edge innovation.

FAQ

What makes the Oura Ring 4 different from other smart rings?

The Oura Ring 4 stands out with its advanced health tracking, including sleep stages, blood oxygen levels, and temperature monitoring. Its sleek titanium design and personalized insights through the app make it a unique choice for health-conscious users.

Can you wear the Oura Ring 4 while swimming?

Yes, you can! The Oura Ring 4 is water-resistant up to 100 meters. Whether you’re swimming, showering, or caught in the rain, the ring stays functional and reliable.

How does the Vertu AI Diamond Ring compare to the Oura Ring 4?

The Vertu AI Diamond Ring combines luxury materials like 18K gold and diamonds with advanced health features like non-invasive blood glucose monitoring. It’s perfect if you want a blend of elegance and cutting-edge technology.

Do you need a subscription for the Oura Ring 4?

Yes, to unlock its full potential, you’ll need a subscription. It costs $5.99 per month or $69.99 annually. Without it, you’ll only access basic features, which limits its functionality.

Who should consider buying the Vertu AI Diamond Ring?

If you value luxury and functionality, the Vertu AI Diamond Ring is for you. It’s ideal for those who want a stylish accessory that also tracks health metrics like heart rate, sleep, and blood glucose levels.

Tip: Think about your priorities—health tracking, luxury, or both—before making a decision.