The best smart rings of 2026: Expert tested

What we like about it: The Oura Ring 5 has one thing every other smart ring on this list doesn't: a thin, discreet build. It's 40% smaller than the Oura Ring 4, and the size upgrade has made a tangible difference in my daily wear and comfort. It finally feels like a ring -- not a smart ring. Additionally, Oura tacks on one more day of battery life to the smart ring, so you'll spend one less day charging it.

Oura's strongest feature -- and the reason it was able to sidestep the smartwatch competition early on -- is sleep tracking. Oura measures heart rate, heart rate variability, blood oxygen, body temperature, and breathing rate to gather data on how you slept and recovered throughout the night. It can even detect when you're about to get sick simply by measuring these variables for a long enough period of time.

That's because, after weeks and months of wear, Oura begins to understand your personal biometric baseline. The technology can then assess and detect deviations. I've experienced this several times: Oura's Symptom Radar feature flags that I have major or minor signs of strain at least a day before I get sick with a fever or cough.

You can exercise with it, though it's not the most accurate when it comes to step tracking or calorie counting. It's a far better sleep tracker than it is an exercise companion. I deem it a wellness companion that gives you a good general idea about your health, but you might want to grab a smartwatch if you're intent on tracking calories or running pace to a tee.

Who it's for: If you've been deterred from buying the current selection of chunky smart rings because of their chunkier design, the Oura Ring 5 blends in naturally with other jewelry. This inconspicuous build keeps the technology discreet and long-time wear comfortable.

When I first wore the new smart ring, I noticed that I could finally keep my fingers together with the ring on thanks to its smaller size. This wasn't the case for the Oura Ring 4. I recommend the Oura Ring 5 to anyone willing to spend a little more than the previous generation for an unnoticeable health-tracking experience.

Who should look elsewhere: I like everything about the smart ring besides the cost. The Oura Ring 5 starts at $399, $50 more than the Oura Ring 4. Select finishes including Deep Rose, Gold, and Brushed Silver cost $499. Then, if you want access to all the datapoints Oura provides, you'll have to pay an annual $70 subscription.

Ther are more affordable and subscription-free options like RingConn's smart ring or the Samsung Galaxy Ring. In addition, the Oura Ring 4 price will inevitably get cut now that the fifth-generation has hit the market.