Imagine a health tracking technology so compact you can wear it on your finger. Smart rings are the latest in wearable tech that’s transforming how many users monitor health metrics, while adding convenience to their day-to-day. That’s why over the past few years, smart rings have risen in popularity, thanks to their blend of functionality and style. But what exactly are smart rings and why should you consider getting one?
Whether you’re new to this technology or curious to learn more, you’re in the right place. As this guide provides a close look at smart rings, you’ll learn about what they are, how they work, and the key features you might want to consider. Explore some popular brands, together with important considerations to help you determine whether they’re right for you.
What exactly are smart rings and what are they for?
A smart ring is a wearable tech you put on your finger like a regular ring. However, it does more than a simple piece of jewelry. With advanced sensors and technologies, you can track health metrics, receive notifications, and make contactless payments all in one device.
Like smartwatches, smart rings are known for their health and fitness features. They offer capabilities such as heart rate monitoring, activity tracking, and sleep analysis, all in a compact, stylish design. Some smart rings even track stress levels, recovery metrics, and body temperature, providing a holistic view of your health. They also offer practical features and connectivity. Popular smart rings connect to your smartphone via Bluetooth, allowing them to sync data, receive notifications, and interact with apps. They also incorporate Near Field Communication (NFC) technology for contactless payments and haptic feedback for discreet notifications.
Smart rings are a great everyday companion. Crafted from durable materials such as titanium, stainless steel, or ceramic to ensure longevity, many feature water resistance, making them suitable for daily use.
Key features and benefits of smart rings
1. Health tracking
For anyone seeking a compact yet comprehensive health and fitness companion, smart rings are an excellent choice for you. They monitor vital health metrics, including:
- Activity levels: Smart rings can track steps, calories burned, and activity intensity, helping you meet your fitness targets. Set daily movement goals and receive real-time feedback to keep you motivated throughout the day. Whether you’re aiming for weight loss, increased physical activity, or maintaining a healthy lifestyle, tracking your activity levels can help you with your fitness journey.
- Sleep patterns and quality: For those seeking better sleep, many smart rings analyze metrics like duration, REM cycles, and disturbances, offering actionable insights to improve rest. For example, individuals experiencing poor sleep can use this data to identify habits or patterns affecting their quality of rest and make adjustments, such as adopting better bedtime routines or avoiding late caffeine intake.
- Heart rate: Smart rings provide real-time monitoring to track performance during workouts. For instance, athletes can use this data to optimize training intensity. By measuring heart rate, you can assess how efficiently your body is working during exercise, detect early signs of overtraining, so you can make helpful changes to your workout accordingly.
- Blood oxygen levels: Useful for athletes or those living at high altitudes, tracking oxygen saturation can give insights into respiratory health. For example, climbers can monitor their oxygen levels to prevent hypoxia, while athletes can assess how their bodies adapt to intense training.
- Stress levels: Many smart rings offer stress-level monitoring by analyzing heart rate variability (HRV) and other physiological indicators. These insights can help you identify triggers, manage stress, and support a balanced lifestyle. Reflect on how understanding and managing your stress levels might contribute to your overall health and happiness.
2. Contactless payments
With near-field communication (NFC) technology, you can make secure, contactless payments simply by tapping your ring on a compatible terminal. Rushing through a crowded coffee shop? Easily pay for your latte without fumbling for your wallet or phone. This feature is especially valuable for frequent travellers, commuters, or anyone who appreciates quick and hassle-free transactions.
3. Receiving phone notifications
Stay updated with calls, messages, and app alerts through subtle vibrations or LED indicators. Receiving notifications makes it easy to stay connected without constantly checking your phone. Specific types of notifications and how they are delivered can vary depending on the smart ring. Check whether the ring supports the notifications you need.
4. Smart home control
Some smart rings enable you to control smart home devices with simple gestures or taps. Dim the lights while watching a movie. Adjust the thermostat without leaving your couch. When choosing a ring, assess its compatibility with your current smart home setup to ensure it integrates smoothly.
5. Durable design
Designed for daily use, many smart rings are built to withstand the rigours of active lifestyles. Many are water-resistant and scratch-proof, ensuring they remain functional and stylish. Outdoor adventurers can wear their ring during hikes or swims without worrying about damage, while busy professionals can rely on its strength through hectic schedules.
Why are smart rings gaining popularity?
The growing focus on health and wellness has propelled the demand for wearable devices—and smart rings are no exception. They offer a sleek and unobtrusive way to stay on top of your fitness goals while also providing practical features. Many brands specializing in wearable technology, including those known for fitness trackers and smartwatches, have begun adding smart rings to their product lines, recognizing their growing appeal. This expansion offers consumers a wider range of options, allowing them to find a smart ring tailored to their specific needs and preferences.
When compared to smartwatches, smart rings stand out for their minimalist design and lightweight feel. While they may lack the larger displays of smartwatches, they complement these devices by focusing on essential features and serving as a discreet alternative.
Deciding between a smart ring or smartwatch? Read the article comparing the two to help you determine which is right for you.
What are the popular smart ring brands?
Here are some leading smart ring brands and what makes them stand out:
Oura
Tracking over 30 biometrics, the Oura Ring specializes in sleep monitoring with detailed insights into different sleep stages all night. It also monitors activity levels, heart rate, temperature trends, recovery status, and women’s health making it a comprehensive tool for overall wellness.
Samsung
Excellent choice for Galaxy smartphone users, the Samsung Galaxy Ring seamlessly integrates with the Samsung ecosystem. With insights into your overall energy levels based on key health metrics, receive daily Energy Score so you can gauge your readiness to take on the day.
Ultrahuman
Analyzing your sleep, activity, and recovery trends, the Ultrahuman smart ring features Phase Response Curve (PRC) to show how stimuli like light and exercise affect your body’s circadian rhythm, so you can improve your daily routines for better health.
Things to consider before buying a smart ring
Ready to get the smart ring that’s right for you? Explore the top considerations to ensure you find a smart ring that meets your needs. Know your priorities and select a device that aligns with your goals and lifestyle.
- Compatibility: Ensure the smart ring is compatible with your smartphone and other devices to maximize its functionality. Compatibility is crucial because it determines whether you can fully utilize the ring’s features, such as syncing health data or using it for payments. Check if the ring supports your operating system (e.g., iOS or Android) and integrates with your existing apps and devices.
- Health features: If fitness and health monitoring are your priorities, focus on rings with advanced sensors and analytics. Look for features like heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, activity tracking, and stress level analysis. Some smart rings also provide temperature monitoring or blood oxygen level measurement, which can give deeper insights into your overall well-being. Choosing a ring with accurate health tracking can make it a valuable tool for improving your lifestyle.
- Practical features: Check for NFC for contactless payments. Explore models that offer smart home integration or gesture controls. Understanding your key requirements will help you avoid paying for features you don’t need.
- Design: Choose a design that matches your style and comfort preferences. Consider the material, size, and weight of the ring, as these factors affect wearability. Rings made of titanium or ceramic are both durable and stylish, while lightweight models are more comfortable for all-day use. Selecting a design that fits your aesthetic ensures you’ll enjoy wearing it daily.
- Price considerations: Smart rings are available at various price points. Set a budget and compare models to find one that offers the best value for your needs. Consider the balance between cost and functionality: higher-priced rings often include advanced features like detailed health metrics or superior durability. However, mid-range options may still meet your requirements without breaking the bank. By identifying what features you value most, you can make a cost-effective decision.
Find the smart ring that’s right for you
Smart rings are a standout addition to the wearable technology landscape, offering a unique blend of health tracking and practical features you can use every day. Though compact size and lightweight form, they offer a powerful tool for monitoring fitness metrics, sleep patterns, and overall wellness—appealing to those who value discreet technology.
Ready to explore your options? Check out the selection of smart rings and sizing kits at Best Buy Canada.
This article was drafted using AI technology and then reviewed, fact-checked, and revised by a member of our editorial team.
