Top crowdfunded smart rings you should know about

Crowdfunding sites have emerged as the springboard for some of the market’s most inventive smart rings. But what are the most funded products in this category? We update this article from time to time to bring you rankings of the top smart rings on Kickstarter or Indiegogo.

Crowdfunding is a method of raising capital through the collective effort of a large number of individuals, typically via the internet. Platforms such as Indiegogo and Kickstarter serve as intermediaries, connecting innovators with potential backers. These platforms have various types of campaigns, such as fixed-length and open-ended, allowing creators to set their own fundraising goals and timelines. They have become essential tools for startups and individual creators to validate their product ideas, gain visibility, and secure initial funding.

Essential reading: Top fitness trackers and health gadgets

Smart rings have seen a significant uptick in consumer interest over the past few years. While Oura has been a pioneer in this space the market has expanded to include more budget-friendly options. These offerings come with functionalities ranging from fitness tracking to contactless payments, making them versatile gadgets for the modern user. We even saw the entrance of big smartwatch brands in recent months with the Samsung Galaxy Ring and Amazfit Helio.

Deciphering the chart

The crowdfunding landscape for smart rings shows a range of success stories. In fact, it has become somewhat of a tradition for new companies in this space to make a market entry via this route. But there are also some not so successful projects. It’s always a risk investing in these types of campaigns.

RingConn Gen 2 has taken over the lead as the most funded smart ring. With 31 days to go in the Kickstarter campaign, it has raised nearly $2.2 million dollars. By the end, it might top $3 or $4 million. A testament to the quality of the first generation product.

Velia Ring (previously Iris ring) is in second place, just short of the funds raised so far by RingConn. Following them are Ring One, RingConn Gen 1, Oura Ring and Ultrahuman Ring Air.

Below is the chart showing the leaders. It shows not only the market’s appetite for smart rings but also the strategic approaches taken by different companies to secure funding. Some of the 2024 newcomers worth a mention include Vera Ring, Kuura Ring, Ringo, Circul Ring and Wizpr Ring.

The chart was posted in a Reddit group called r/SmartRings. Check them out. Its a very active community, a great place to get some advice.

Top players

RingConn Gen 2

We recently published our RingConn Gen 2 review. The device improves on the first generation device in a number of different ways. What stands out for us is the awesome battery life. You can expect over 10 days on a single charge. No other ring comes close to that sort of battery life.

Other improvements include a smaller form-factor and well as some improvements in sensor accuracy. Also, the Gen 2 ring is capable of monitoring Sleep Apnea in conjunction with the smartphone app.

Velia Ring

The Velia Smart Ring is expected to make its debut towards the end of 2024, following some production delays. The gadget distinguishes itself from the competition by offering the capability of tracking blood pressure from the finger. To remind, there are no smart rings currently with the ability to monitor blood pressure from the finger.

Created by a Swiss-based company, this smart ring also features a slimmer design than its competitors and provides a wide array of other vital tracking functionalities, such as heart rate, heart rate variability, blood oxygen levels, and respiration.

RingOne

RingOne from Muse is another device which claims to be able to track blood ability to take blood pressure measurements. It also has NFC payment compatibility which works through a unique Turn Wheel interface. This allows users to switch between workout mode or payment mode with ease.

A bit worrying is that company has been making promises for months now that it has or is about to start shipping the ring to backers. There is quite a fiery Facebook group with pretty angry customers. So far none of them have received the device. One to watch.

RingConn Gen 1

RingConn Gen stands out in the smart ring market for its focus on recovery statistics, offering a high degree of accuracy in metrics such as resting heart rate and heart rate variability. As noted in our hands-on review, its sleek design and hassle-free setup make it a user-friendly choice for a broad consumer base. The accompanying smartphone app, although dense with information, is lauded for the detailed insights it provides.

Ultrahuman Ring Air

The Ultrahuman Ring Air is another solid offering that provides a comprehensive and educational approach to health and wellness. Its app stands out for its ability to provide actionable insights, going beyond mere data display to offer a deeper understanding of metrics like heart rate variability, resting heart rate, and sleep. Innovative features such as the circadian clock and stimulant restriction window further enrich the user experience. The device’s lightweight and comfortable design, coupled with its impressive battery life, allows for continuous wear without discomfort.

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