Which Smart Ring Reigns Supreme: Oura Ring 4 or Circular Ring 2?

The Circular Ring 2 is a subscription-optional smart ring that offers several advanced features, such as ECG readings and AFib detection, along with a battery life of up to eight days. In comparison, the Oura Ring 4, a leading smart ring, is known for its durability and comprehensive health insights, although it requires a monthly subscription. This article provides an in-depth comparison between the two devices across key categories, helping you decide which smart ring might be the best fit for your needs.

Last updated: 05 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• The Circular Ring 2 offers a subscription-free model for most features, unlike the Oura Ring 4, which requires a monthly fee.
• Both rings have a durable titanium exterior, but the Oura Ring 4 has better scratch resistance.
• The Oura Ring 4 excels in fitness tracking capabilities, automatically detecting a wider variety of workout types.
• Battery life is a strong point for the Circular Ring 2, which includes a travel-friendly charging case.
• Overall, while the Oura Ring 4 is more established, the Circular Ring 2 shows promise with its health features.

Price Comparison

When it comes to price, both the Oura Ring 4 and Circular Ring 2 start at $349 (£285). However, the Oura Ring 4 includes a mandatory subscription of £5.99 per month for access to its app and features. In contrast, the Circular Ring 2 is subscription-free for most of its available functions. This difference has drawn some criticism from early backers of the Circular Ring 2, especially regarding future features like blood pressure and glucose monitoring, which are likely to incur additional costs.

While these features were initially described as "stretch goals" rather than core offerings, there remains uncertainty about when they will become available and the potential costs associated. The Circular website currently indicates a timeline of late 2025 for blood pressure monitoring and early 2026 for blood glucose monitoring. Despite these uncertainties, the Circular Ring 2 wins this category due to its lack of ongoing subscription fees for most features.

Winner: Circular Ring 2

Sizes and Finishes

The Oura Ring 4 is available in sizes ranging from 4 to 15 and comes in multiple finishes, including Gold, Rose Gold, Silver, Brushed Titanium, Black, and Stealth. The Circular Ring 2, however, is offered in sizes 6 to 14 with options of Gold, Rose Gold, Black, or Silver.

Although the Circular Ring 2 provides fewer size and finish choices, its sizing process is considered superior. Customers can use the Circular app for digital sizing, while Oura sends a kit of plastic dummy rings for sizing, which may be less convenient. Given this, both rings are neck-and-neck in terms of sizing options.

Winner: Draw

Design and Durability

Both smart rings boast a titanium exterior, which contributes to their overall durability. However, early observations suggest that the Circular Ring 2 may be more prone to scratches after limited wear. Comfort is another factor to consider, as the Oura Ring 4 features recessed sensors that enhance wearability. In contrast, the Circular Ring 2 has protruding sensors, which may leave an indentation on the finger after prolonged use.

While the Circular Ring 2 is slightly heavier than the Oura Ring 4, the difference is minimal. In terms of water resistance, the Circular Ring 2 is rated IP68, allowing it to withstand moisture and dust. Users can wear it in the shower but not when swimming. Conversely, the Oura Ring 4 is rated for up to 50 meters of water resistance, making it suitable for swimming activities.

Winner: Oura Ring 4

Health Features

In terms of health tracking, both smart rings come equipped with heart rate, blood oxygen, and body temperature sensors, along with accelerometers to monitor movement. While the Oura Ring 4 is often viewed as the gold standard for holistic health data from smart rings, the Circular Ring 2 also shows promise in this area.

Both devices provide insights into vitals, sleep quality, and energy levels, as well as women's health tracking features. However, Oura offers more detailed insights and a broader range of tracked metrics. Still, the Circular Ring 2 stands out for its ability to perform ECG readings and detect AFib. Despite this unique capability, the Oura Ring 4 remains the winner due to its comprehensive approach to health data.

Winner: Oura Ring 4

Fitness Features

Fitness tracking is another area where the two smart rings differ significantly. The Circular Ring 2 provides a daily Energy Score akin to the Oura Ring's Readiness Score, but the Oura Ring 4 excels in activity tracking. Neither device has onboard GPS, meaning users must carry their smartphones during workouts for accurate location, pace, and distance data. However, the Oura Ring 4 can automatically detect and track up to 40 different workout types, while the Circular Ring 2 is limited to basic activities like walking and running.

This distinction gives the Oura Ring 4 a considerable advantage for fitness enthusiasts looking for comprehensive tracking capabilities.

Winner: Oura Ring 4

Battery Life

Both the Oura Ring 4 and Circular Ring 2 claim a battery life of up to eight days per charge. However, real-world testing indicates that the Oura Ring 4 typically lasts closer to six days. Initial impressions of the Circular Ring 2 suggest it may perform slightly better, lasting around seven days on a single charge.

Additionally, the Circular Ring 2 includes a travel-friendly charging case that can recharge the ring to 100% in just 30 minutes, providing an extra layer of convenience for users on the go. This feature is an advantage over the Oura Ring 4.

Winner: Circular Ring 2

Overall Winner

While both the Oura Ring 4 and Circular Ring 2 retail for the same initial price of $350 (£285), the Oura Ring 4 incurs additional costs over time due to the mandatory subscription. Despite this, the Oura Ring 4 is generally considered the superior smart ring, offering a more durable design, comprehensive wellness insights, better fitness tracking, and a wider range of sizes.

However, the Circular Ring 2 holds its ground with impressive battery life and advanced heart health monitoring features, such as ECG readings and AFib detection. It will be interesting to see if these features eventually make their way into future Oura models, such as a potential Oura Ring 5.

Overall Winner: Oura Ring 4

As smart technology continues to evolve, the battle between these two innovative devices will be intriguing to follow. Which features do you value most in a smart ring—subscription-free access or comprehensive fitness tracking? #SmartRings #WearableTech #HealthMonitoring

FAQs

What is the price difference between the Oura Ring 4 and Circular Ring 2?

Both the Oura Ring 4 and Circular Ring 2 are priced at $349 (£285). However, the Oura Ring requires a £5.99 monthly subscription for its app, while most features of the Circular Ring 2 are available without a subscription.

How does the sizing process work for each ring?

The Oura Ring 4 provides a physical kit of plastic dummy rings for sizing. In contrast, the Circular Ring 2 allows users to determine their size using the Circular app, offering a more convenient and modern approach.

Are both rings water-resistant?

The Circular Ring 2 has an IP68 rating, making it resistant to dust and moisture but not suitable for swimming. The Oura Ring 4 is water-resistant up to 50 meters, allowing it to be worn while swimming.

What health tracking features do these rings offer?

Both rings feature heart rate, blood oxygen, and body temperature sensors. The Circular Ring 2 also includes ECG readings and AFib detection, while the Oura Ring 4 provides more detailed wellness insights and a broader range of tracked metrics.

Which ring has better battery life?

Both rings advertise a battery life of up to eight days. However, in testing, the Oura Ring 4 typically lasts around six days, while the Circular Ring 2 shows potential for lasting up to seven days on a single charge.