Oura Ring 3 vs RingConn: who wins the smart ring race?
Smart rings are definitely becoming all the rage. Samsung has just teased its upcoming smart ring, following a similar announcement by Zepp Health. The first is expected to launch this summer, the second in the spring. So if you are in the market for a smart ring and want one of these two, you will need to wait a bit longer. However, there are other great options on the market.
Essential reading: Top fitness trackers and health gadgets
These include the Oura Ring 3 and RingConn. The first is a pioneer in this space, on its third generation device ever since November 2021. The second is a new entrant having seen the light of day in early 2023.
How do these two smart rings compare? Read on to find out.
Key takeaways
While both rings focus on recovery-type metrics, the Oura Ring 3 excels in detailed sleep tracking and readiness assessment. This makes it a top choice for users prioritizing sleep optimization. The RingConn offers continuous health monitoring, including HRV, blood oxygen, and stress metrics. Price and subscription fees play a crucial role in the decision-making process, with the Oura Ring 3 being the premium option and the RingConn offering a much more cost-effective alternative.
View on manufacturer website (Oura Ring, RingConn). View Oura Ring on Amazon. For $10 off on RingConn, at checkout use discount code: BFD50EC113.
Jump to
Hardware
Technical specs
Features
Bottom line
Oura Ring 3 vs RingConn: Hardware
Look & feel
In the look and feel comparison of the Oura Ring 3 and RingConn, the build quality and design of both rings stand out for their elegance and simplicity. The Oura Ring 3 is often likened to a classic piece of jewelry, with its seamless design that subtly blends into everyday wear. Its resemblance to a traditional wedding band adds to its appeal for users seeking a discreet yet stylish wearable.
The RingConn, with its unique outer-square, inner-circle design, offers a minimalistic yet exclusive appearance. This design choice not only ensures comfort but also gives it a modern aesthetic that distinguishes it from more traditional ring designs. The slightly wider range of size options with RingConn indicates a commitment to accommodating a broader spectrum of users.
The width and thickness of the rings are nearly identical, with the Oura Ring at 7.9mm in width and 2.55mm in thickness. The RingConn is slightly slimmer at 7.8mm wide and marginally thicker at 2.6mm.
Both rings lack physical buttons, emphasizing their sleek and unobtrusive design. This feature is particularly appreciated by users who prefer their wearables to be as non-intrusive as possible.
Display, colour options, water resistance
The absence of a display screen on both rings is a deliberate design decision. It aligns with their focus on health tracking without the distractions of a digital display. This choice is well-received for maintaining a traditional, elegant appearance. It makes them more appealing to users who favor a more classic look over a tech-heavy appearance.
In terms of water resistance, the Oura Ring 3’s capability of withstanding depths of up to 100 meters is an advantage for users who engage in water-related activities. The RingConn also offering substantial water resistance. But it is slightly less robust in this aspect. Nevertheless, it still provides adequate protection for everyday use.
Color options for both rings are varied. The Oura Ring 3 offering a wider range of choices, including different finishes like Brushed Titanium and Rose Gold. The RingConn’s color palette, though more limited, is chosen to cater to a sense of sophistication and modern style.
Sensor technology
In terms of sensor technology, the Oura Ring 3 and RingConn both heavily focus on health and wellness tracking. The duo features infrared, red, and green sensors, primarily used for tracking physiological parameters like heart rate. Additionally, they both incorporate temperature sensors, which add another layer of health monitoring by tracking body temperature variations.
However, the rings do not support GPS connectivity, NFC, or music storage. This aligns with their design as compact, health-focused wearable devices rather than all-encompassing smart gadgets.
Battery life
Battery life is, of course, important. The Oura Ring 3 conjures up to 7 days on a single charge. It requires a charging time of approximately 20 to 80 minutes, depending on the battery level. The ring uses a compact charging dock with a USB-C connection. This long battery life is particularly impressive given the ring’s continuous tracking capabilities and its compact size. However, some users have reported variations in battery performance over time. This seems to be a common issue with rings.
The RingConn also boasts an impressive battery life of up to 7 days. It takes about 90 minutes to achieve a full charge. What sets RingConn apart is the inclusion of a portable charging case, which adds convenience for users on the go. This feature is particularly useful for maintaining the ring’s charge without needing to find a power outlet.
Oura Ring 3 vs RingConn: Technical specs
Here’s a detailed tech specs comparison table for the Oura Ring 3 and RingConn:
Specification | Oura Ring 3 | RingConn |
|---|---|---|
Release Date | November 2021 | January 2023 |
Case Material | Durable titanium, PVD Coating, Non-allergenic, non-metallic, seamless molding | Durable titanium, PVD Coating, Non-allergenic, non-metallic, seamless molding |
Physical Buttons | 0 | 0 |
Shape | Circular | Circular |
Size | Width: 7.9mm, Thickness: 2.55mm (8 size options) | Width: 7.8mm, Thickness: 2.6mm (9 size options) |
Display Type | None | None |
Resolution | n/a | n/a |
Screen Size | n/a | n/a |
Weight (without strap) | 4 to 6 grams (depending on ring size) | 3 to 5 grams (depending on ring size) |
Sensors | Infrared, Red and Green, temperature sensors | Infrared, Red and Green, temperature sensors |
Water-Resistance | Up to 100m/328 ft | IP68/5ATM dustproof and waterproof |
Positioning | None | None |
Built-in Speaker | No | No |
Microphone | No | No |
NFC | No | No |
Music Storage | No | No |
Connection | BLE, EMF-Safe and Allows Airplane Mode | BLE 5.2, EMF-Safe and Allows Airplane Mode |
Cellular Connectivity | No | No |
Battery Type | 15mAh – 22mAh (depending on ring size) | 15mAh – 22mAh (depending on ring size) |
Battery Life | Up to 7 days, Full charge in 20 to 80 minutes, Charging dock USB-C | Up to 7 days, Full charge in 90 minutes, portable charging case |
Operating System | Proprietary | Proprietary |
Colors | Heritage – classic, plateau design (Silver, Black, Stealth, Gold), Horizon – sleek, uninterrupted design (Silver, Black, Stealth, Brushed Titanium, Gold, Rose Gold) | Moonlit Silver, Midnight Black, Pale Gold |
Typical RRP | $300 – $549 (depending on finish) + $5.99 monthly subscription (first month membership free) | $279, no subscription |
Oura Ring 3 vs RingConn: Features
The quality and accuracy of health data on both devices is quite good. There is little difference there. But while both the Oura Ring 3 and RingConn excel in health monitoring, they have slightly different focal points.
The Oura Ring 3 is particularly celebrated for its detailed sleep tracking. It provides in-depth insights into various sleep stages, disturbances, and overall sleep quality. This paints a comprehensive picture of the user’s sleep patterns, which is vital for overall health. In contrast, while the RingConn also tracks sleep, it broadens its scope by including continuous monitoring of heart rate variability (HRV) and blood oxygen levels throughout the day. These are features that the Oura Ring offers only during sleep.
Regarding setup and user experience, the RingConn stands out for its straightforward and flawless process. On the other hand, some users have reported encountering connection issues with the Oura Ring 3, especially during initial setup or when switching phones. These users have found the customer support’s advice somewhat basic.
In terms of data presentation within their respective apps, the RingConn offers an extensive array of detailed information. It prides itself on the transparency of its data calculations and presentations. Conversely, the Oura Ring 3 opts for a more summarized approach. It provides more interpretations of data rather than the raw data itself. This difference caters to varying user preferences: RingConn appeals to those who favor in-depth data analysis, while the Oura Ring is more suited to users who prefer a simplified, summary-based presentation.
When it comes to fitness tracking, both rings adopt a relatively passive approach compared to traditional fitness wearables. The Oura Ring 3’s focus is on recovery metrics, advising users on the optimal times for physical activity based on their readiness score. This method prioritizes understanding the body’s preparedness for exertion over tracking specific exercises. Similarly, the RingConn emphasizes recovery statistics. But isalso incorporates stress metrics, offering a more comprehensive view of the body’s response to both physical and mental stressors.
It’s important to note that neither the Oura Ring 3 nor the RingConn is targeted towards hardcore sports enthusiasts. They do not feature the detailed sports tracking capabilities typical of specialized sports watches. However, both rings do provide basic activity tracking features. This includes step count and calories burned, which are sufficient for users seeking to maintain a general overview of their daily activity levels.
Oura Ring 3 vs RingConn: Price
The pricing strategy of these two smart rings diverges significantly. The Oura Ring 3 is positioned as a premium wearable device, and its price reflects this status. It typically ranges from $300 to $549, with the variation depending on the chosen finish and style. While the initial cost is on the higher side, it’s essential to note that the Oura Ring 3 also comes with an additional expense—an ongoing monthly subscription fee of $5.99. This subscription is required after the first month of usage. It grants users full access to the extensive features and data provided within the Oura app.
In contrast, the RingConn is designed to be a more budget-friendly option. It boasts a retail price of $279, making it a more affordable choice. Plus it does not impose any monthly subscription fees. Users can access all of the ring’s features and functionalities without the need for an additional ongoing expense. This cost-effective approach is particularly appealing to users who prioritize a one-time purchase without long-term subscription commitments.
Oura Ring 3 vs RingConn: Final thoughts
The Oura Ring 3 and RingConn emerge as formidable contenders in the realm of smart rings, each showcasing distinct strengths and unique selling points. The Oura Ring 3 stands out with its exceptional sleep tracking capabilities, elegant design, and the inclusion of a readiness score feature, aiding users in optimizing their physical activities. However, its premium pricing, coupled with an additional monthly subscription fee, may present a barrier for budget-conscious consumers.
Conversely, the RingConn offers an affordable alternative, boasting continuous HRV and blood oxygen monitoring, comprehensive stress metrics, and a transparent pricing structure. Its straightforward setup process and comprehensive data presentation appeal to those who place high value on detailed data analysis. Notably, both devices provide data of comparable quality and accuracy, ensuring that users can rely on the insights they receive, irrespective of their choice between the two.
View on manufacturer website (Oura Ring, RingConn). View Oura Ring on Amazon. For $10 off on RingConn, at checkout use discount code: BFD50EC113.
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