What is ECG used for?

An ECG is a test that monitors and records the heart’s electrical activity—i.e., heart rate, heart rate variability (HRV), and so on. It’s a very helpful test used to determine potential problems in a person’s heart, which can include:

• irregular heart rhythm or arrhythmia
• atrial fibrillation
• heart inflammation or myocarditis
• poor blood supply

An ECG can also help predict serious imminent problems, such as heart attacks, that could result from the above-mentioned cases.

How do smart rings with ECG work?

Usually, ECG tests require doctors or medical technicians to attach electrodes and wire leading to the patient’s chest, arms, and legs to measure heart rhythms. Since smart rings do not have these, they conduct ECG tests differently.

Smart rings with ECG are fitted with a slew of sensors that enable them to monitor vitals such as heart rate and HRV, along with other biometrics such as temperature. Through these sensors, these smart rings are able to provide users with an ECG literally within their fingertips.

5 Best Smart Rings with ECG

Tracking heart-related statistics isn’t the only thing they’re good at—they’re also designed to meet other needs as well. Here’s a quick look at the best smart rings with ECG:

1. Oura Ring

Despite adding a monthly subscription fee for advanced features, the Oura Ring is undoubtedly the most popular smart ring. Oura is currently selling the third-generation Oura Ring.

The Oura Ring uses infrared PPG sensors similar to those hospitals use to monitor patients’ heart rates. These sensors take samples 250 times per second for maximum accuracy. Oura says the measurements are 99.9% reliable and comparable to medical-grade ECGs.

ALSO READ: OURA RING TEST FOR 30 DAYS

The Oura Ring uses multiple LEDs to provide a more accurate reading than health-tracking smartwatches. It produces reliable measurements of users’ resting heart rate (RHR), HRV, and respiration rate. It also tracks users’ live heart rate, nighttime heart rate, and heart rate during workouts to give users better insight into their overall heart health.

If you are new to smart rings and want to use one to monitor your heart, the Oura Ring is a good first health-tracking device. The cheapest variant—a Heritage style Oura Ring in silver—costs $299. Buyers will need to pay more every month to enjoy all of the device’s advanced features.

GET OURA RING

2. Ultrahuman Ring Air

The Ultrahuman Ring Air is another popular smart ring among consumers, particularly those concerned with monitoring their heart health. Like the Oura Ring, this sleek-looking smart ring features an array of sensors, including PPG, which monitor vitals related to the user’s heart.

The Ultrahuman Ring Air uses its multiple sensors to measure heart rate, HRV, respiration, and more. While users shouldn’t rely on the device to be as accurate as medical-grade ECG equipment, it can be a reliable tool to measure vitals outside of sleep or workouts.

ALSO READ: ULTRAHUMAN RING AIR REVIEW

It’s worth noting that while the Ultrahuman Ring Air is designed to rival the Oura Ring 3, there are some important differences. First, it’s not as reliable when it comes to monitoring vitals during workouts. Second, sleep tracking is one of its major strengths. Third, it combines basic vitals with Ultrahuman’s metabolic fitness platform to provide additional insights into the users’ overall health.

Unlike Oura, Ultrahuman doesn’t charge monthly fees for advanced features. The good-looking smart ring costs $349 per piece, with all features unlocked. The Ultrahuman Ring Air comes from 5 through 14, which can accommodate more consumers.

GET ULTRAHUMAN RING AIR

3. Amazfit Helio Ring

Amazfit, a Chinese brand of smart devices, including smartwatches, entered the smart ring market with the Helio Ring—a fitness-focused wearable designed to track its users’ vitals regarding their physical activity. This device is less like the Oura Ring or the Ultrahuman Ring Air and more like the Whoop health tracker in the sense that it is aimed at measuring vitals related to recovery or other things.

The Amazfit Helio Ring features a slew of sensors and is able to measure heart rate, sleeping heart rate, blood oxygenation, and HRV with the help of the Zepp app (formerly the Amazfit app). Users will need to enable the heart tracking features in the app so that the Helio Ring will monitor these vitals. With this feature, users will be able to keep track of their heart health with just a few taps on the screen.

ALSO READ: BEST SMART RINGS YOU CAN GET NOW

That said, while the Helio Ring can be a standalone health device, it works best when it is paired with an Amazfit smartwatch. This allows users to get a better overall picture of their health, especially if they maintain an active lifestyle.

The Amazfit Helio Ring is a promising health-tracking device that could be the better choice for athletes and those who want to get fit.

GET AMAZFIT HELIO RING

4. Circul+

Of all the smart rings mentioned on this list, Circul+ is the only one designed to be a portable medical-grade ECG sensor. It’s not as stylish as the Oura Ring or Ultrahuman Ring Air, but what it lacks in style points it more than makes up for in reliability and accuracy in terms of vital measurements.

The Circul+ smart ring uses its patented Sensor Stabilization Technology to ensure that the device fits properly and that its slew of sensors, including a heart rate monitor and a blood pressure/ECG Lead 2 scannable, accurately take measurements. This is the only smart ring to claim medical-grade accuracy and FDA 510(k) cleared blood oxygenation testing.

ALSO READ: BEST SMART RING FOR SLEEP TRACKING

This smart ring can also provide accurate health readings regardless of the user’s skin tone. There’s no need to worry about LEDs making mistakes in measuring blood oxygen due to the user’s skin pigmentation. Doctors attest to the Circul+ smart ring’s accuracy and reliability, making it one of the most trustworthy consumer health devices available on the market today.

The Circul+ smart ring accommodates finger sizes from 8 to 16. It is sold for $299 per piece and comes with a charger.

GET CIRCUL+

5. Circular Ring

Last but not least, the Circular Ring offers another star for monitoring one’s health. The aptly named Circular Ring is a stylish health device with a replaceable outer shell (Pro variant). It tracks vitals such as heart rate, HRV, blood oxygen, and respiration. It also monitors biometrics during sleep and exercise and can act as a reliable stress management tool.

The Circular Ring uses a PPG sensor and two LED sensors to monitor heart statistics. It’s reliable and accurate in measuring heart rate and HRV, and its accuracy can be compared with that of other health trackers, such as smartwatches.

ALSO READ: CIRCULAR RING REVIEW

What’s great about the Circular Ring is that it monitors its users’ vitals and notifies them immediately if something is wrong. For example, if the user’s heart rate is too high, the device will alert them and provide recommendations or tips to relax and lower that heart rate to normal levels. Additionally, the Circular Ring helps users predict and manage stress.

While the Circular Ring is not as popular as the Oura Ring, it’s not as expensive. The device sells for $275, and users won’t have to pay a monthly fee for extra features. Everything becomes available with a one-time purchase. What’s more, since the outer shell is replaceable, the device can be customized to match the user’s look.

GET CIRCULAR RING

The Verdict: Which is the best smart ring with ECG?

All of the above smart rings feature the capability to monitor a user’s ECG. How should anyone choose what to get for themselves? Is the Oura Ring the smart ring with ECG?

For those who want an all-around smart ring that can measure accurate vitals and do not mind paying a monthly subscription, the Oura Ring is the best option. Those who want accurate measurements but do not want to pay extra to get more features should go for the Ultrahuman Ring Air or the Circular Ring.

Consumers who are hoping to have a smart ring to help them monitor their vitals while exercising have an option in the Amazfit Helio Ring and Circular Ring. These devices can do so much more than keep track of a person’s heart rate.

Those with a reliable, easy-to-use ECG tester that they can take anywhere have the Circul+ smart ring. This device monitors sleep as well, but it primarily works as an ECG worn around the user’s finger.

For the latest wearable tech news and updates, follow Smart Ring News on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn.

The post 5 Best Smart Rings with ECG first appeared on Smart Ring News.

Choosing the Best Alternative to Oura

Before diving into the list, we looked into a few things to help us justify what makes a wearable device a great alternative to the Oura Ring. This list is not limited to smart rings. We took into consideration smartwatches and fitness bands to keep your options wide open. Hence, health monitoring features are at the center of this list.

Purpose

The Oura Ring has a few different functionalities. Knowing what you want to use the ring for is critical for your decision. Is it for tracking sleep? Is it for monitoring the menstrual cycle? Is it for tracking blood oxygen levels?

Integrations

What type of third-party support does the smart ring have? In most health rings, third-party apps like Natural Cycles, Google Fit, and MyFitnessPal, among others. If you are looking for a particular app to use, make sure to check with the ring maker whether they support the app you’re looking for.

Budget

At $299, the Oura Ring is expensive for a tiny wearable, so it does not come as a surprise why many people would look for an alternative. We have a bunch of them on this list, or you can also check out the best Oura Ring dupes.

Here are the best Oura Ring alternatives that you can choose from:

1. Ultrahuman Ring Air

The Ultrahuman Ring Air works pretty much the same as the Oura Ring. Released in 2023, this health smart ring is capable of tracking sleep, heart rates, activities, recovery, stress, and blood oxygen. It also has a period prediction feature for women to plan or avoid pregnancy. If you’re wondering what makes one different from another, check out our Ultrahuman Ring Air vs. Oura Ring Review!

GET ULTRAHUMAN RING AIR!

2. Whoop

Whoop is a health and fitness band that provides personalized insights into your sleep, strain, and recovery. This wearable uses ambient temperature and electrodermal activity (EDA) to track your strain and recovery for stress management. Whoop monitors heart rate as well. Its activity tracking is pretty good, which Whoop approaches in a holistic way, covering intensity both physically and mentally. Whoop 4.0 works on a subscription basis, starting at $20 per month for 24 months. If you want to know how each device stacks up against each other, read our Whoop vs. Oura Ring Review!

GET WHOOP 4.0!

WHOOP 4.0 with 12 Month Subscription - Wearable Health,...

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3. Apple Watch Series 8

As one of the most equipped Apple Watches, the 2022 Apple Watch Series is an exceptional Oura Ring alternative. The Apple Watch Series 8 can track sleep, heart rate, and activities. It has an all-new body temperature-sensing ability to bolster women’s health. The Apple Watch 8 can track blood oxygen levels on command or continuously. It has a crash detection functionality that automatically connects to emergency responders in case of an emergency, plus fall detection and emergency SOS features. The Apple Watch 8 is crack, dust, and water-resistant. If you’re wondering what makes the watch different, check out our Oura Ring vs. Apple Watch Series 8 Review!

GET APPLE WATCH SERIES 8!

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4. Circular

Circular is a promising health and wellness smart ring that looks and functions a lot like the new generation of Oura, making it one of the best Oura Ring alternatives. Circular tracks sleep, activities, continuous heart rate, and blood oxygen level, and gives recovery insights. Even the actual minimalistic look and feather-light feel of the ring is essentially Oura. One major difference between Circular and Oura at this point is the price. Circular costs $277 or €278, while Oura costs $349 or €350. Check out our Oura vs. Circular Review to find which is better!

GET CIRCULAR!

5. Garmin Venu 3

The Venu 3 is one of the best Garmin smartwatches ever released and makes for a great alternative to the Oura Ring with all its similar set of health and fitness features. This Garmin watch tracks sleep, heart rate, respiration, hydration, and stress. And it also gives you recovery insights. The incident detection functionality is a useful emergency tool, especially for outdoor enthusiasts. The Venu 3 gives you over 25 indoor and GPS sports apps and preloaded workouts. Venu 3 starts at $450 or €448. If you’re curious about which one is better, read our Oura vs. Garmin Venu 3 Review!

GET GARMIN VENU 3!

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6.Fitbit Versa 4

Fitbit smartwatches and fitness trackers are some of the most advanced in terms of health and fitness. The Fitbit Versa 4 is a phenomenal Oura alternative, allowing you to manage stress and sleep better. The stress management functionality identifies patterns of stress and provides recommendations on what to do. It can also track blood oxygen levels, heart rate, and activities. The Fitbit Versa 4 costs $199. Wanna know the difference? Check out our Oura Ring vs. Fitbit Versa 4 Review!

GET FITBIT VERSA 4!

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7.Circul

Circul is a pulse oximeter ring designed to track blood oxygen (Sp02) level and heart rate continuously unlike the common finger pulse oximeter that only records at a time. Among all Oura Ring alternatives on this list, Circul works a little differently because you can only use it one mode at a time. In Sleep Mode, Circul tracks your blood oxygen, heart rate, oxygen desaturation index (ODI), and sleep stages. In Exercise Mode, the ring monitors your heart rate, steps, and calorie burn during workouts. Use Daytime Mode to keep tabs on your heart rate and blood oxygenation regularly. Cicul costs $199 or €197. If you want to see the two side by side, read our Oura vs. Circul Review!

GET CIRCUL!

BodiMetrics CIRCUL Waterproof Sleep & Fitness Ring

Buy on Amazon

8.Polar Ignite 3

Polar Ignite 3 is one of the best Oura alternatives with the same functionality profile as Oura, including sleep, activity, and recovery monitoring. The watch also has accurate heart rate tracking features. Activity tracking is where Polar shines the most as it has over 150 sports and activities, plus some workouts for you to choose from. The Polar Ignite 3 costs $330 or €329. If you’re curious which device is better, check out our Oura vs. Polar comparison!

GET POLAR IGNITE 3!

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9. RingConn

Released in January 2023, RingConn is one of the brand-new smart rings joining the health and wellness market. Developed by a Chinese health technology firm with headquarters in Delaware, RingConn is a fantastic Oura alternative able to track sleep, heart rates, blood oxygen, and activities. However, it does have a recovery monitoring mechanism like the Oura Ring.

GET RINGCONN HERE!

Remember to consider your utmost health and fitness needs when choosing the right wearable for you. Do you want one that can be a good remote extension of your smartphone? I highly recommend looking into the smartwatches mentioned. If you want to try out another ring, Circul is a great option. Or, you can wait for Circular or Evie Ring, the first smart ring designed to give women a better track of their health. And that’s it for our list of the Best Oura Ring Alternatives! Got questions? Drop them in the comments!

The post 9 Best Oura Ring Alternatives You Can Buy in 2024 first appeared on Smart Ring News.

Oura has dominated the smart ring market for almost a decade, and rightfully so, given it has been the most reliable and consistent device ever available. Over the past couple of years, despite the challenges in form factor, several brands have already made inroads into the smart ring market, including Ultrahuman and Ringconn. Fast forward to date, we’ve seen more familiar names like Samsung, Movano Health, and Amazfit joining the race.

The smart ring market, however, is not limited to health monitoring. There are smart rings that can be used for other purposes, including contactless payments, remote control, travel passes, and car access. 

Fortunately for you, there are now many impressive smart rings available. From sleep tracking to contactless payment and blood oxygen monitoring, we selected the best smart rings according to their functionalities. But before diving into the list, how do we choose the right smart rings?

Choosing the Best Smart Rings

When we created our list of the best smart rings, we first took into account a couple of things to make sure they serve you the ultimate way possible. Here are some criteria we considered:

Purpose

Smart rings are used for different purposes. Knowing what you want to use the ring for is critical for your decision. Is it for monitoring your health? If you need to be more specific, is it for sleep, blood oxygen, or period prediction? Is it for payment? Is it for your car?

Integrations

What type of third-party support does the smart ring have? In most health rings, third-party apps like Natural Cycles, Google Fit, and MyFitnessPal, among others. If you are looking for a particular app to use, make sure to check with the ring maker whether they support the app you’re looking for.

Budget

Cost is one of the things that set people back from getting a smart ring. Most NFC smart rings cost below $200, but health-tracking rings with more sophisticated sensors cost at least $200. For example, the price of the Oura Ring starts at $299, but there are Oura Ring dupes that you can buy for less than that.

After taking all these factors, here are our top picks for the best smart rings you can buy now:

1. Oura Ring – Best Smart Ring

Leading the smart ring market is Oura, a sleep tracker that gives you a 360-degree view of your nightly rest habits. These include factors like sleep stages (REM, light, and deep sleep), total sleep, restfulness, timing, sleep efficiency, latency, time in bed, and resting heart rate (RHR). You’ll be given a sleep score based on those factors, which you can view right through Oura’s mobile app.

Sleep tracking is only one of Oura’s main functions, though. It also tracks your activities and evaluates your readiness based on certain factors. Overall, Oura is pretty accurate, making it one of the best smart rings out there. I strongly recommend Oura for people with problematic sleeping habits just like me. I did a 30-day-long Oura User Test, so be sure to check how it stacked up as a smart ring.

The new version, Oura 3 was launched in 2021. This product adds several high-end sleep and fitness tracking functionalities, more advanced algorithms, and an updated app and membership subscription. Check our Oura 2 vs. Oura 3 comparison to see what’s new!

Get Oura Ring!

2. Ultrahuman Ring Air – Best Sleep Ring

One of the most advanced wearables on the market, the Ultrahuman Ring Air is one of the best smart rings you can get your hands on. Its continuous nudges to make better lifestyle choices based on your sleep, activities, and recovery trends is something beneficial to meet your fitness goals. It’s light and slim, so you get the optimal comfort you need from a health smart ring, whether you are running or sleeping.

Get Ultrahuman Ring Air!

3. Wellue O2Ring – Best Oxygen Monitor and Pulse Oximeter Ring

There are only a few smart rings that measure blood oxygen levels and heart rate and one that stands out is the Wellue O2Ring. Developed by medical technology maker Wellue, the ring is a medical-grade oxygen monitor that can continuously track your blood oxygen saturation, heart rate, and body movements. It’s used by several medical clinics across the U.S. The O2Ring sports an adjustable vibrator that goes off when your blood oxygen level drops below normal or when your heart rate beats in fits and starts. And of course, you can get a detailed health report through its mobile and desktop apps.

Wellue O2Ring Oxygen Monitor with Vibration Reminder...

$179.99

Buy on Amazon

Get Wellue O2Ring!

4. Femometer Ring – Best Smart Ring for Women

The first smart ring for women that was ever released, the Femometer Ring is a phenomenal wearable device that can track menstrual cycles. It’s mainly designed as a tool for planning or avoiding pregnancy, but it’s not just that. The smart ring approaches women’s health monitoring by keeping tabs on the user’s sleep, activities, heart rate zones, body temperature, and even recovery.

Get Femometer Ring!

5. Kimiss Car Key Ring- Best Smart Ring for Tesla

If you’re looking for a smart ring for your Tesla, whether you’re using Model 3, Model S, Model X, or Model Y, the Kimiss Car Key Ring is one of the most reliable rings you can get on the market. This ring made from carbon fiber is stylish and lightweight enough to be comfortably worn on any occasion. It’s also waterproof.

Get Kimiss Car Key Ring!

6. McLear RingPay – Best Contactless Payment Ring

McLear calls RingPay the original contactless payment ring being the first company to offer such functionality at points of sale. While I’m not sure about that, what’s certain is that it’s the most popular contactless payment ring on the market. You can easily connect your credit card or bank account through the RingPay mobile app as well as track your daily expenditure. RingPay can also be used as a travel pass. As a passive device, RingPay doesn’t have a battery, so it works 24/7/365.

The ring can be used at Visa-enabled POS terminals anywhere around the world. The kicker is, only U.K. residents with U.K. banks can use the ring at the moment. In Australia, a McLear-branded payment ring called Bankwest Halo is available for Bankwest depositors. The ring works pretty much the same as RingPay. Be sure to read this McLear RingPay Review to know more about this device. McLear RingPay costs £90.

Get McLear RingPay 2!

7. Token Ring – Best NFC Smart Ring

If you’re looking for a versatile NFC smart ring, Token is your best option on the market. Here’s why: Token is an all-in-one smart ring that can be used as a smart key to your car, office, or home, as a digital wallet, and for passwordless logins to your computer. It uses your fingerprint, so it’s really hard to be stolen or hacked.

The Token smart ring is the ultimate convenience you’re looking for in an access device. It isn’t the first NFC ring to have those functionalities, but it’s impressive knowing that it’s keeping up with the leading NFC-enabled rings, even surpassing some of them. Check out my Token Smart Ring Review to learn more about its performance and capabilities. The Token smart ring is available for $349.

Related: Best NFC Smart Rings

‍8. Nuanic (formerly Moodmetric) – Best Smart Ring for Stress Management

If you’re too caught up with the everyday happenings in your life, Nuanic (formerly Moodmetric) is the ring you need. This stress monitoring and management smart ring is designed to help you get a holistic approach to your stress levels using only the electric conductivity of your skin, otherwise known as electrodermal activity (EDA). With the help of its mobile app, you’ll be able to view the factors that are causing you stress as well as things that relieve it. The app also provides personalized insights and recommendations on how you can recover from stress. Overall, Nuanic is pretty impressive. Read this Moodmetric Review to find out more about the ring’s performance.

Get Nuanic!

9. Circul+

Circul has some good activity-tracking capabilities that health and fitness enthusiasts will enjoy. It can track your total calorie burn, steps, and workouts like walking, running, hiking, and biking. Like the O2Ring, Circul mainly functions as also an oxygen monitor and pulse oximeter. It also has an impressive sleep-tracking functionality that can give Oura users a run for their money. Check out this Oura vs. Circul Review to find out which one is better for you. The biggest downside Circul has is its protection or the lack thereof. It’s not waterproof, so if you want to do water activities, this ring isn’t the right one for you. Circul+ is the latest smart ring version introduced by Bodimetrics in cooperation with Prevention magazine.

BodiMetrics CIRCUL Waterproof Sleep & Fitness Ring

Buy on Amazon

Get Circul!

10. Wave for Work – Best Remote Control Ring

Wave for Work by Genki Instruments is a gesture-initiated smart ring that allows you to control computer applications as fast as 10 meters with just a click of a button. Hosting video calls on Zoom? Mute, unmute, or raise your hand. Presenting a slideshow? Click through your slides. Listening to Spotify? Play, pause, or skip songs. You can also customize shortcuts and tasks according to your most-used programs and actions. Wave for Work works wonders!

Although specifically designed for remote workers, Wave for Work can also be a perfect companion for anyone who wishes to bring their workflow to the tip of their fingers. The Wave for Work smart ring costs $99. The ring is a successor to Genki Instruments’ Wave MIDI controller ring designed for music producers, DJs, musicians, and more. Learn more about it in this Wave by Genki Review.

Get Wave for Work!

Which Is the Best Smart Ring?

To wrap this up, the smart ring market is booming with incredible products for any purpose. We still have a long way to go when it comes to technology. But moving forward, we can expect that more companies will jump on the bandwagon, and more smart rings will see the light of day that will take our breath away.

Remember, some smart rings have multiple functionalities. If you’re sitting on the fence about which one fits you best or which one you need, be sure to check out the Ultimate Smart Ring Buyer’s Guide to help you make an informed decision.

For the latest wearable tech news and updates, follow Smart Ring News on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

The post 10 Best Smart Rings You Can Get in 2024 first appeared on Smart Ring News.

The Apple Watch Series is one of the most popular wearable technologies that ever came out of Cupertino in the last 10 years. A lot of Apple fans use the smartwatch as a statement piece, but for health and fitness enthusiasts, there’s more to it than just being a treat to the spectator’s eyes. We use it day in, day out to track our steps, monitor our heart rate, and a host of other functionalities to help improve our health.

However, the device has evolved into a more useful health and fitness companion ever since the first Apple Watch was released in 2015. The most recent models have tons of advanced features incorporated into them, but they cost an arm and a leg. Having said that, you don’t really need to spend hundreds of dollars just to get the more expensive model. Here are the best Apple Watch models you can get to suit your needs and budget.

1. Apple Watch Series 9

Although there has been no major upgrade for the Apple Watch Series 9 except for the S8 chip, the smartwatch is a pretty robust option if you are switching from other brands or upgrading from the Apple Watch Series 7 and Apple’s older smartwatches. With the S8 chip, this smartwatch is faster and has way better overall performance than its predecessor This smartwatch introduces the double tap gesture which allows you to control your watch and smartphone using predetermined gestures.

Check out Apple Watch Series 9 on Amazon!

2. Apple Watch Ultra 2

If you’re looking for a durable outdoor smartwatch, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is one of the best options available. Designed for extreme sports and activities, the smartwatch has better health monitoring capabilities, especially when it comes to activity tracking and sleep monitoring. Its display has up to 3,000 knits, making it brighter and clearer under the bright sun. It’s certified to IPX6 standards, so it’s dust-resistant and water-resistant up to 100 meters. The smartwatch has also been tested to MIL-STD 810H1, which means it went through and surpassed over 30 testing situations, including extreme temperature, moisture, dust, and shock tests. The Apple Watch Ultra 2 has all the features of the Watch Series 9.

Check out Apple Watch Ultra 2 on Amazon!

3. Apple Watch Series 8

Released in 2022, the Apple Watch Series 8 is still an impressive smartwatch that you can get. If the current Apple Watch does not fit your budget, you can still enjoy some important functionalities, including blood oxygen monitoring, sleep tracking, and fall detection, crash detection, and emergency SOS capabilities, among other things. Again, the difference between the Watch Series 9 and 8 lies in the chip and native features (double tap gesture, on-device Siri, etc.).

Check out Apple Watch Series 8 on Amazon!

4. Apple Watch Ultra (1st Generation)

If the Watch Ultra 2 is too expensive for a reliable outdoor smartwatch, consider looking into the first-generation Watch Ultra. Released in 2022, you are not missing out on a lot of important features with this device. Features like running form, heart rate zones, dual-frequency GPS, compass waypoints, and safety features like fall detection and crash detection are present with the Watch Ultra. The 36-hour batter life is even the same. The only difference the successor has is its brighter screen and S9 chip.

Check out Apple Watch Ultra on Amazon!

5. Apple Watch SE 2

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly Apple Watch, the Apple Watch SE 2 is a great option. This mid-range smartwatch has everything you need to stay up to date with your health. It can track your activities, sleep, and heart rate zones. Plus, it also has fall detection, crash detection, and emergency SOS capabilities to ensure your safety first. The watch is water-resistant up to 50 meters too.

Check out Apple Watch SE 2 on Amazon!

6. Apple Watch 7

The Apple Watch 7 is the latest smartwatch in the series released in September 2021, which has the most functionalities. A brand-new piece costs around $339 (~€333) which is a bit pricey for a piece of wearable tech. But if you have the budget, go for it. The Apple Watch 7 houses an electrocardiogram (ECG) for monitoring heart activities and a blood oxygen (Sp02) sensor. Its third-generation optical heart sensor allows for more accurate heart rate tracking, while the fall detection feature comes extra handy if you are active, especially in the outdoors.

Check Out Apple Watch 7 on Amazon!

7. Apple Watch 6

Released in September 2020, the Apple Watch 6 is pretty much like its successor, the Apple Watch 7. It rocks an ECG, a blood oxygen sensor, a third-generation optical heart sensor, and a fall detection capability into the bargain. The most notable difference is only the screen display. The price of Apple Watch 6 starts at $210 (~€206).

Check Out Apple Watch 6 on Amazon!

8. Apple Watch SE (1st Generation)

Debuted in September 2020, the Apple Watch SE is a more affordable smartwatch which retails for $188 (~€184), less than half the price of the Apple Watch 7. The Apple Watch SE is suitable for those who only need the core health and fitness and watch functionalities. It does not have the fall detection capability of the Apple Watch 6 and 7, their optical heart sensor as well as their bigger screen size. The Apple Watch SE does have the second-generation optical heart sensor and an electrical heart sensor. Not bad at all!

Check Out Apple Watch SE on Amazon!

9. Apple Watch 5

The Apple Watch 5 is a decent model released in September 2019. It has an ECG like the Apple Watch 6 and 7, fall detection ability as well as an electrical heart sensor. It’s using a second-generation optical heart sensor like the Apple Watch SE. This model retails for $279 (~€274).

Check out Apple Watch 5 on Amazon!

10. Apple Watch 4

The Apple Watch 4 is pretty much like its successor. Released in September 2018, the model is armed with an ECG, electrical sensor, a second-generation optical heart sensor, and the fall detection feature. The obvious difference lies in the electronics inside. You can get the Apple Watch 4 for $183 (~€180).

Check out Apple Watch 4 on Amazon!

Apple Watch Series Comparison Chart

This quick comparison chart shows the Apple Watch models head to head based on their health and activity features. After having found the model with the right combo of health tracking capability, you can move on choosing the most suitable display size, cellular connection, memory capacity, color, and so on.

One of the common health and fitness features you can find among all Apple Watch Series models mentioned above include the ability to send notifications when the user experiences low and high heart rates as well as irregular heart rhytms. Sleep tracking capabilities for Apple Watch 3 and later is available in watchOS 9, though very limited. They have GPS, altimeter, emergency SOS, and international emergency calling (except for the Apple Watch 3).

Overall, the health and fitness functionalities of the Apple Watch models don’t have much of a difference. The Apple Watch 6 and 7 have almost the same functionalities and sensors, while 4 and 5 share common things too. That said, you should consider looking at other things as well that make these models differ, including screen display and size, cellular capability, memory capacity, and more.

Apple Watch Alternatives

Apple Watch might be the most advanced and admired wearable for a health and fitness companion. However, it’s not a fit for every budget. There are more affordable , high-quality smartwatch alternatives though. One of them is Fitbit, the iconic brand that has been making great activity tracking wearables since 2009. Read our Fitbit comparison – it compares four Fitbit devices which we think cover the most user requirements with flying colors while retailing for less than Apple Watch!

Garmin has an endless portfolio of robust, high-quality, good looking watches, which could offer a perfect Apple Watch alternative for those outdoors savvy, active users. Our two recent blogs give a quick overview of five Garmin smartwatches and the best Garmin fitness trackers that have a ton of health, fitness, and activity features and could easily substitute an Apple Watch!

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The post Best Apple Watches 2024: Which Apple Smartwatch Has the Right Health and Fitness Features for You? first appeared on Smart Ring News.

Whoop is one of the most widely lauded wearables in health and fitness circles, and rightfully so. Its accuracy and execution of its features make it an impressive device, giving users a comprehensive and reliable picture of their health and fitness. However, Whoop is not for everyone. If you want to consider other health wearables, we rounded up the best Whoop alternatives you may look into.

Whoop 4.0 is a fitness strap designed mainly for tracking activities, sleep, strain, and recovery. It’s safe to say, it’s a practical device for athletes and fitness buffs to help them maximize their daily active performance.

After years of using Whoop, there are a few things that stood out to me that the product is really good at. First of all, the depth of data and insights the fitness tracker gave me are by far some of the most useful. Ultimately, this focus on data helped me make informed decisions when it comes to my training and recovery process.

ALSO READ: WHOOP 4.0 REVIEW: IS IT REALLY THE BEST FITNESS TRACKER?

Second, the actionable insights Whoop gave me were beyond the numbers and graphs on the app. Whether I needed more sleep or ways to recover fast, Whoop gave me all the bits and pieces of information that did me a huge favor. And did I mention Whoop has one of the most supportive communities I’ve been in?

Disadvantages of Whoop

Despite being a robust health and wellness tracker, Whoop does come with a bunch of limitations that many users (including me) found inconvenient.

Battery Life

Whoop’s battery can last you for up to 5 days. Considering it doesn’t have a screen, this might not be the best battery life a fitness strap can give.

No Screen

Depending on how you view screens for fitness tracking, the absence of a screen display may be something you are not into or accustomed to. Some users prefer no screens at all to let them focus on the task at hand, while others are not comfortable not seeing real-time data from their watch faces.

ALSO READ: BEST SMART RINGS FOR SLEEP TRACKING

Subscription

Whoop’s subscription-based model is also a deal-break for many where you pay $30 monthly for 1 year, $239 upfront for 1 year, or $399 upfront for 2 years. After that, you need to renew your membership; otherwise, you will lose your data. This does not sit well with a lot of people, and it’s understandable.

No Playlist/Music Support

Whoop has no means to support your favorite playlists, so if you are someone who thrives with music or podcasts in your ear while training, Whoop might not be the one for you.

ALSO READ: BEST SMART RINGS FOR PAYMENT

Choosing the Best Whoop Alternatives

Our top recommendations are not random by any means. We looked at the strengths and weaknesses of Whoop and ultimately figured out which wearable on the market can fill for its flaws and top (or at least match) what it currently does. Here are the criteria that we considered upon choosing the best alternatives to Whoop 4.0:

Features and Functionalities

Can it track activities, sleep, strain, and recovery? How good is it when it comes to executing these features and functionalities? We looked into data collection and accuracy when we came up with this list. Do note that form factors can have a difference in the way a device collects data.

ALSO READ: BEST SMART RINGS YOU CAN BUY

Form Factor

Speaking of form factor! Fitness trackers come in many forms—smartwatches, wristbands, and smart rings. The best alternatives to Whoop come in different forms. It’s also important to note that there are not a lot of alternatives that exactly look like Whoop. Therefore, you might need to explore wearable options outside of fitness straps.

Pricing

And of course, we are not wrapping this roundup without pricing considerations. It might not be the most important thing, but it’s also worth noting whether or not the Whoop alternatives are giving you the features you need for their price point.

ALSO READ: FITBIT VERSA 4 REVIEW: IS IT WORTH BUYING?

Whoop Alternatives Quick Summary

Before we dive deeper, here’s a quick summary of the features and functionalities of our top picks for the best Whoop alternatives:

4 Best Alternatives to Whoop

From smart rings to smartwatches to a fitness strap, here are the best Whoop alternatives you may check out for yourself:

1. Fitbit Versa 4

If you’re looking for a brand that lives and breathes health monitoring, look no further than Fitbit. The Fitbit Versa 4 is one of their bestselling smartwatches released in 2023, boasting a sleek design which is worth noting if you are looking for a versatile wearable that you can wear during workouts and everyday use.

For $200, you get a midrange smartwatch that’s centered on activity tracking from a well-known health tech maker.  The Fitbit Versa 4 has over 40 exercise modes which allows you to see your real-time stats as well as real-time pace and distance if you are working out outdoors. Through the Fitbit app, you get a daily readiness score that’s based on your activities and recovery. With a premium membership, you get access to a collection of workout routines.

GET FITBIT VERSA 4

2. Ultrahuman Ring Air

One of the best smart rings available, the Ultrahuman Ring Air delivers comprehensive health monitoring functionalities for sleep, activities, stress, recovery, blood oxygen, and even blood sugar. The smart ring provides you with scores for sleep, activities, and recovery, so you get an idea of how good you are doing from the moment you wake up to the moment you work out until you fall asleep.

 If you want an in-depth look into the smart ring, check out our Ultrahuman Ring Air Review! And if you’re wondering which is the better fitness tracking device, check out our Ultrahuman Ring vs. Whoop Review!

GET ULTRAHUMAN RING AIR

3. Amazfit Helio Ring

The latest addition to the smart ring market courtesy of the global health tech brand, the Amazfit Helio Ring is designed for athletes who want to zero in on their sleep and recovery. Through the Zepp app, you get a recovery score and readiness insights to help you maximize your training performance.

What makes the Helio Ring a standout is its inclusion of important fitness data that you can see from Whoop, such VO2 max, training load, and training effect. While we don’t know yet how good its execution will be, Amazfit’s smart ring is showing to be a promising health wearable device. The Helio Ring is slated for release in March 2024.

PRE-ORDER AMAZFIT HELIO RING

4. Oura Ring

Probably the most popular smart ring on the market,  the Oura Ring is one of the best sleep tracking rings. Don’t be fooled though as the ring has robust technology, giving you accurate data and practical insights into your readiness. From heart rate variability (HRV) to blood oxygen level to sleep to activities, the Oura Ring has everything you need that makes it a worthy alternative to Whoop.

If you want to get to know the device on a deeper level, check out our Oura Ring Review! Or if you’re on the fence between the two, check out our Whoop vs. Oura Ring Review!

GET OURA RING

Which Is the Best Whoop Alternative?

Choosing between the best Whoop alternatives depends on your style and budget. Ultimately, it boils down to knowing what you need. Alternatively, you can use both a smart ring and Whoop to help you get a comprehensive look at your fitness data.

For the latest wearable tech news and updates, follow Smart Ring News on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

The post 4 Best Whoop Alternatives in 2024 first appeared on Smart Ring News.

If you’ve been looking for the best fitness tracker ring, know that this smart ring segment only has a few options. That, however, is not entirely bad news as the ones introduced are pretty impressive. Two of them, Circul and Oura are available for purchase while Circular can be pre-ordered with the first deliveries due in September 2021.

Fitness Tracking Rings Comparison Table

But, which is the best fitness ring for you? To give you an overview of the best fitness tracker rings, here’s a comparison of their main features:

How to Choose the Best Fitness Ring for You

Fitness tracker rings in the market are not one and the same. So, it’s important to know what you want to use the ring for to guide your buying decision. If you know what you are looking for, feel free to skip this part. Otherwise, here are some possible criteria to take into account.

RELATED: Best Apple Watch Based on Health and Activity Tracking Features!

Sensors and Functionalities

Sensors are the basic component of smart rings. Fitness rings, in particular, have at least an accelerometer that detects linear acceleration and a gyroscope to monitor rotational movements. What this means in simpler terms, these sensors can automatically detect a variety of physical activities such as walking and running, which are then used as the basis for tracking calorie burn. In addition, most fitness rings also come with an optical heart rate monitor (which is called ‘photoplethysmography’ (PPG)). PPG takes care of tracking your blood oxygen saturation level (SpO2) and heart rate.

The blinged-out fitness rings have some other sensors into the bargain. These may include a GPS tracker to monitor location, and an ECG sensor to detect cardiovascular problems, or others.

Some smart rings have multiple functionalities, so don’t be afraid to look for extra features that you think you might need apart from the mentioned functionalities. Whether it’s a stopwatch feature or remote control, it doesn’t hurt to look for that extra feature to help with your buying decision.

RELATED: Evie Ring is Designed to Give Women Better Track of their Health

Design

Smart rings are inherently lightweight. However, some may look bulkier than others, so take that into account. Depending on what you want your smart ring to use for, you might also want to consider the protection it has against elements like water, sweat, dust, and varying weather conditions. For instance, most fitness tracker rings are waterproof (e.g., Oura), while some are not (e.g., Circul). If you want a ring that you can take with you while swimming or diving, be sure to get an IP-rated ring.

Battery Life

Fitness tracker rings depend on batteries since they use electronic sensors. Most fitness rings will last for seven days between charges, while some may only last for a few days, which you may find inconvenient.

App, Integrations, and OS Support

Smart rings often come with a mobile app, which carries tracked data and, in most cases, personalized insights. This is true for most fitness tracker rings. But apart from the app itself, it’s also important to know what it integrates with. Does it sync with Apple Health or Google Health? Does it support other fitness apps?

Apart from apps and integrations, you should also consider the smart ring’s operating system support. Most devices use Bluetooth connections to share data with a smartphone, and in almost all cases, the ring maker provides apps for iOS and Android phones.

Price

Fitness tracker rings vary in cost. Prices range from less than $200 for a well-equipped fitness ring to $300 or more for a blinged-out one. Most users will find incredible choices with a set of features that match their needs for $200. The pricier options may include a blood oxygen sensor, a GPS tracker, and/or a heart rate monitor, which can be tailored for all sorts of fitness enthusiasts.

‍

Three Best Fitness Tracker Rings

Although there are only a few activity tracker smart rings in the market, they are definitely stellar. Here are three of them:

1. Oura

Activity tracking is only one of Oura’s three main functionalities, and it’s one of the best out there. I’ve been using Oura for a couple of months now; I must say it’s a feasible alternative to more common wrist-worn fitness trackers. This smart ring can track your total calorie burn, steps, and a host of activities like walking, running, and strength training.

What’s great about Oura’s activity tracker is it automatically detects activities, keeps track of their duration and equivalent calorie burn, and suggests adding them through the app to make sure you don’t miss any activities. But here’s the kicker — its suggestions are sometimes all over the place. For instance, it doesn’t know when I’m doing a treadmill walk or run or lifting weights. Fortunately, you can correct it.

Oura, however, does not show an active heart rate and distance covered (though calculates distance shown as ‘walking equivalency’), unlike other fitness trackers, which could be a problem for runners, bikers, and other fitness enthusiasts who wish to track these metrics.

Oura also tracks sleep and gives you readiness insights. The smart ring can be used as a birth control method. Oura works with other mobile apps like Apple Health for iOS devices, Google Fit for Android devices, Samsung Health for Samsung devices, HRV4Training, and Natural Cycles, among others.

The Oura Ring is available in silver, black, stealth, and gold finish starting from $299 / €245.

RELATED: Oura Ring Test: What’s the Verdict After Using It for 30 Days?

‍2.Circul

As a pulse oximeter smart ring, BodiMetrics’s Circul mainly functions as a blood oxygen and heart rate monitoring device. The ring, however, can also be used for fitness purposes as it’s capable of tracking a bunch of fitness-related metrics, including heart rate, steps, and calorie burn. The good thing about using Circul for those who want to use it for medical reasons is that they can keep a record of their data, whether they want to print, download, or share it with their family, caregivers, and physicians.

Circul also tracks overnight sleep, including heart rate variability and the different sleep stages, just like Oura. But what separates Circul from Oura is the Circul’s continuous tracking capabilities with a higher sample interval. You get better accuracy but the tradeoff reflects in the battery life. The battery of Circul lasts 18 hours of continuous monitoring, which easily covers a full night’s sleep.

Another thing that’s unique about Circul is its adjustable sizing. No sizing kit will be given to buyers; you only have to choose between small, large, or extra large sizes.

Circul is a great fitness tracker ring for people who are also dealing with diseases that negatively affect their blood oxygen levels. The ring, however, is not meant to be submerged in water, which means swimmers, triathletes, and others won’t be able to use it.

Circul is available in black finish for $299 / €245.

RELATED: Oura vs. Circul: Which Is the Best Smart Ring to Detect COVID-19?

3.Circular

Circular is a health and wellness smart ring that monitors sleep and activities 24/7 and gives personalized recommendations through its mobile app. You can use it to monitor steps, calorie burn, and physical movements. If you need to track your heart rate, Circular has this functionality and a bunch of other heart rate metrics such as heart rate variability, heart training zones, and maximum heart rate.

Circular’s mobile app for Android and iOS devices allows users to access personalized insights into sleep, energy, and performance along with their real-time raw data. Circular is a great Oura ring alternative with Oura’s features and more. Apart from tracking sleep and a variety of heart rate metrics, the ring can also measure blood oxygen levels, something Oura cannot do. Check our Oura vs. Circular comparison to learn more!

Other features you may be able to enjoy with using Circular are smart alarms (automatic or manual wake-up time), alert notifications (push notifications from your phone), and Kira (an intelligent assistant accessible via app).

Circular is available for pre-order on Indiegogo starting at $240 / €198.

RELATED: Circular vs. Motiv: Which Is the Best Wellness Smart Ring?

In Conclusion

At the moment, you don’t really have an array of fitness tracker rings to choose from. Your actual options right now are Oura and Circul as Circular has yet to hit the shelves soon. Nonetheless, Circular seems promising based on its feature set, and without a doubt, it can compete with Oura and Circul once it’s out.

Between Oura and Circul, which one should you choose? If you want to get a stylish activity tracker smart ring that also monitors sleep, Oura is hands down the best option there is. If you are looking for an utilitarian health monitoring ring, which can also track activity and measure blood oxygen levels and heart rates, Circul is the way to go.

It’s important to know what you need first. Does a fitness tracker ring match your needs, or is it a smartwatch, or perhaps a smart bracelet that serves your fitness habits best? If you have that figured out, you should be able to choose which one fits your needs best.

Here are two fitness wearable comparisons you might want to see: 

‍Apple Watch vs. Oura Ring

Whoop vs. Oura Ring

The post Best Fitness Tracker Rings 2024: 3 Activity Tracker Rings to Hit Your Goals first appeared on Smart Ring News.

When it comes to health-tracking wearables, one that’s mainly designed for women is hard to come by. However, it’s a different case for the smart rings. Because of their form factor, smart rings can inherently be engineered to help women manage their health. In this guide, we rounded up the 3 Best Smart Rings for Women.

Smart rings for women are mainly used for period prediction, especially for couples who are trying to plan a pregnancy or for that matter avoid it. The majority of smart rings for women have all the functionalities of health smart rings, but they have a more robust body temperature sensor as a large part of it is monitoring it.

Do note that some smart rings for women require a third-party menstrual cycle tracking app, while others don’t. We included them on this list. Without further ado, here are the 3 Best Smart Rings for Women:

1. Femometer Ring

Developed by a New Jersey-based women’s health tech company of the same name, the Femometer Ring is the first fertility ring mainly designed for ovulation and period prediction with a bunch of other health-tracking functionalities. The smart ring continuously reads your basal body temperature (BBT) every minute (no need for manual input!), giving you 99% accuracy of your period predictions on your most fertile days. This is 50% more precise than a fitness tracker or menstrual cycle tracking app.

ALSO READ: BEST SMART RINGS FOR SLEEP TRACKING

Through the app, you can also see your ovulation changes in real-time and can give you the 7 most fertile days, increasing your chances of getting pregnant each cycle. And of course, the Femometer Ring can be used for a holistic approach to health and wellness with its sleep-tracking functionalities.

The Femometer Ring costs $149 and is available in pink/white color and 6-9 sizes.

GET FEMOMETER RING

2. Evie Ring

Produced by US-based health tech company Movano Health, the Evie Ring is a revolutionary health smart ring for women. One thing that’s worth mentioning first about this ring is its open design. Unlike most smart rings, the Evie Ring does not have a closed-loop body, enabling the ring to stretch up to 2 millimeters. Why is this important? Women’s knuckles can get a little larger due to changes in hormones during perimenopause and menopause, so this open design allows for a good, comfortable fit no matter what. In addition, finger size can also fluctuate with the seasons, hydration levels, and salt intake.

ALSO READ: BEST SMART RINGS FOR PAYMENT

Outside of menstrual cycle tracking, the Evie Ring can also track various health metrics such as heart rates, blood oxygen, activities, sleep cycles, and body temperature. Unlike health and wellness smart rings on the market, the Evie Ring is approved by the US FDA, so it’s considered a medical-grade wearable, meaning it passed the standards set for devices used in doctors’ offices and hospitals.

The Evie Ring costs $269. No premium subscription fee is necessary. It is available in silver, gold, and rose gold colors and sizes 5-12.

GET EVIE RING

3. Oura Ring

Oura has a different methodology when it comes to period prediction. With its robust body temperature tracking feature, the Oura Ring is only used for gathering data. This set of data is only usable for planning your pregnancy with the help of Natural Cycles, an FDA-approved birth control app. Oura might not be laser-focused on women’s health, but with its host of health-monitoring capabilities, women can use the smart ring to approach their ovulation from a better perspective.

ALSO READ: BEST SMART RINGS YOU CAN BUY

The Oura Ring starts at $299. It is available in two styles and in colors silver, black, stealth, gold, rose gold, and brushed titanium. Sizes available are 6-13.

GET OURA RING

I believe there are more smart rings that can be used for period predictions. But at this point, these three rings are honestly the only ones worth mentioning. Both the Ultrahuman Ring Air and Ringconn are expected to release menstrual cycle tracking features soon.

For the latest wearable tech news and updates, follow Smart Ring News on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

The post 3 Best Smart Rings for Women in 2024 first appeared on Smart Ring News.

You’ve heard some good things about the Oura Ring, but it might be too expensive for a ring. Or maybe you’re not quite sure whether it’s a worthy investment for such a tiny device. If you’re looking for alternatives to Oura, we rounded up the best Oura dupes so you can get your hands on what the most popular smart ring feels like.

Oura Ring is a Finnish health-tracking wearable that enables you to keep tabs on your sleep, activities, heart rate, body temperature, blood oxygen, period prediction, and recovery, among other things. Since it first came out in 2015, Oura dominated the health smart ring segment with Hollywood celebrities and world-class athletes being part of its cult following. Soon, we will be able to get a more powerful smart ring through the Oura Ring 4.

A few years later, competitors like Ultrahuman Ring Air, Ringconn, and Evie Ring surfaced and we got a bunch of options on the market. And we will soon get our hands on a few other players such as the Amazfit Helio Ring, Circular Ring, and Samsung Galaxy Ring.

For $349, diving head first into Oura Ring might not make sense total sense for you. But don’t worry because there are a bunch of smart rings available that you can try first to test the water. Here are our top picks for the best Oura Ring dupes:

1. Amovan Smart Ring

One of the most affordable health-tracking smart rings, Amovan boasts a bunch of features you will find in Oura Ring, including sleep monitoring,  activity tracking, and heart rate monitoring. Two things to take note—the smart ring does not have continuous heart rate tracking but instead checks it every 30 minutes, and it automatically records sleep from 10 PM to 8 AM. The Amovan Smart Ring costs $169.

GET AMOVAN SMART RING

2. Ultrahuman Ring Air

Not necessarily cheaper than the Oura Ring with a price point at $349, the Ultrahuman Ring Air is on this list because of its ongoing battle against Oura for “copying” the latter. Issues aside, this smart ring is a pretty good contender against Oura with all the health-tracking functionalities plus you get continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) into the bargain, which is something you won’t find in other smart rings or health wearables.

GET ULTRAHUMAN RING AIR

3. Ringconn

One of the biggest selling points of Ringconn is its comprehensive approach at health monitoring at an affordable price—all for no subscription fee (apparently a direct dig at Oura). For $279, award-winning Ringconn provides you with a 24/7 heart rate and blood oxygen saturation monitoring, detailed sleep quality analysis, and all-day activity tracking.

GET RINGCONN

4. Femometer Ring

Designed for women, the Femometer Ring mainly tracks menstrual cycle which is a practical tool for planning or avoiding pregnancy. On top of period prediction, the Femometer Ring also takes health-tracking wholistically by tracking sleep, activities, heart rates, body temperature, and recovery. The Femometer Ring costs $149.

GET FEMOMETER RING

5. Omate Ice Ring

For smart ring enthusiasts in Europe, the Omate Ice Ring is an advanced option for a health wearable. Besides all the basic health monitoring functionalities, this smart ring has GPS enabled to give users a view of their distances and maps through the app. The Omate Ice Ring costs $199.

GET OMATE ICE RING

6. Rogbid Smart Ring

Although a fairly new device, the Rogbid Smart Ring is a worthy contender to Oura. For $129, it features typical functionalities of health-tracking smart rings for sleep, heart rate, blood oxygen, body temperature, and even menstrual cycle. It does have a slew of features outside health that allows you to capture photos and control music, and an emergency SOS function. The Rogbid Smart Ring costs $199.

GET ROGBID SMART RING

7. Noise Luna Ring

Available only in India, the Noise Luna Ring is one of the best health smart rings outside the US and Europe. Luna Ring can track more than 70 biometric signals, including sleep stages, sleep duration, continuous heart rate, resting heart rate, heart rate variability, and body temperature. Luna Ring also has a recovery monitoring system to gauge how stressed or well-rested your body is. Luna Ring costs 21,999 rupees or about $265.

GET NOISE LUNA RING

8. Boat Smart Ring

Another smart from India is the Boat Smart Ring, a versatile smart ring for monitoring sleep, fitness, heart rate, blood oxygen, body temperature, mentrual cycle, and recovery. It also has smart touch controls that allows you play or pause music, capture photos from your phone, and control other apps. The Boat Smart Ring costs 19,999 rupees or about $240.

GET BOAT SMART RING

9. Rollme R1

A new smart ring released in January 2024, Rollme R1 is a promising wearable that can track your sleep, activities, heart rate, body temperature, and blood oxygen levels. Rollme R1 can track nightly rest automatically set between 10 PM and 8 AM.  It also checks your heart rate and heart rate variability (HRV) every 30 minutes, but you have the option to measure them manually. Rollme R1 costs $229.

GET ROLLME R1

Gone are the days when we only had a few options when it comes to smart rings. Whether you are looking for Oura dupes or a health smart ring that’s its own identity, you can now choose from a selection of brands.

If you want to explore more smart rings, check out these guides:

• Best Smart Rings You Can Buy Now
• Best Smart Rings for Payment
• Best Sleep Tracking Rings
• Best Oura Alternatives

Got questions about smart rings? Drop them in the comments. We will get back to you!

For the latest wearable tech news and updates, follow Smart Ring News on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

The post Best Oura Dupes: Smart Rings That’s Not Oura Ring first appeared on Smart Ring News.

Which smartwatch is the best for activity tracking? In this guide, we selected the 5 Best Fitness Tracker Watches you can take into consideration based on your style, budget, and needs.

When it comes to activity tracking, smartwatches are the best wearable you can have to keep track of your activity progress. They have the facility to carry the most advanced sensors as well as a screen display for real-time activity tracking.

Fitness tracker watches measure metrics such as the number of steps, calorie burn, distance equivalency, flights taken, active heart rate, and more. These smartwatches usually come with other sensors for sleep and blood oxygen saturation as well as other health metrics like recovery monitoring and stress management.

Whether it’s Apple, Samsung, Fitbit, or Garmin, the fitness-tracking smartwatch segment has tons of options for you. Here are our topic picks for the best fitness tracker watches!

1. Garmin Venu 3 – Best Overall Fitness Tracker Watch

For people who want a laser-focused smartwatch for fitness, the Garmin Venu 3 is close to being perfect. This fitness-tracking smartwatch tracks steps, calorie burn, floors climbed, and more.

Its heart rate metrics include continuous heart rate, resting heart rate, and 24/7 heart rate. The ECG app detects signs of an irregular heart rhythm. The Garmin Venu 2 is also capable of tracking your VO2 max to measure your current fitness level and monitor changes over time.

Garmin Venu 3 lets you know how each workout impacts your body and how much your body needs to overcome them. The watch also records your rate of perceived exertion after every workout and tracks how long moderate and vigorous activities last.

To help you improve your fitness, the Garmin app comes with a variety of animated workouts for yoga, strength training, HIIT, and more as well as free access to Garmin Coach for adaptive 5K, 10K, and half-marathon training plans from experts. The Garmin Connect app enables you to create step-by-step workouts from more than 1,600 exercises and access them right on your smartwatch.

In addition, the ability to create your own interval workout and listen to guided audio prompts from your watch comes in handy for your walking or running sessions. You can also take advantage of Garmin’s integration with more than 30 sports apps to augment your fitness tracking goals.

For wheelchair users, Garmin’s unique ‘Wheelchair Mode’ functionality detects pushes, plus gives workouts designed for them.

Garmin Venu 3 Specs and Features

• 24/7 heart rate
• Resting heart rate
• Workout heart rate
• VO2 max
• Steps
• Calorie burn
• Flights climbed
• Sleep tracking
• Blood oxygen monitoring
• Cycle tracking
• Up to 14 days with regular use
• Water-resistant up to 50 meters

GET GARMIN VENU 3 HERE!

2. Fitbit Versa 4 – Best Fitness Tracker Watch for Lifestyle

If you are looking for a light, slim, and fashionable everyday smartwatch that has all the fitness tracking bells and whistles, look for the Fitbit Versa 4. This versatile smartwatch is popular for its heart monitoring feature that gives medical-grade heart monitors a run for their money. It tracks your 24/7 heart rate, resting heart rate, heart rate variability, workout heart rate, breathing rate, respiration rate, and more.

Fitbit Versa 4 has more than 40 exercise modes—from strength training to kayaking—and allows you to see your real-time stats directly on your watch. In addition, you get a daily readiness score to let you know if your body has recovered from your previous activities, ultimately helping you decide whether or not it’s a good day to work out or pause for a little bit.

If you subscribe to their premium membership, you get access to resources to help you become better at your workouts, whether it’s yoga, strength training, pilates, or HIIT. With it, you also get deeper insights into your sleep and access to a stress management score.

Fitbit Versa 4 Specs and Features

• 24/7 heart rate
• Resting heart rate
• Workout heart rate
• VO2 max
• Steps
• Calorie burn
• Flights climbed
• Sleep tracking
• Stress management
• Blood oxygen monitoring
• Menstrual cycle tracking
• Up to 6 days with regular use
• Water-resistant up to 50 meters

GET FITBIT VERSA 4 HERE!

3. Amazfit GTR 4 – Best Value Smartwatch for Activity Tracking

You don’t really have to choose the most expensive smartwatch to get all activity tracking functionalities. The Amazfit GTR 4 is living proof. It can track activities and different heart rate metrics, plus you get more than 150 sports modes. It can automatically detect 8 sports.

In addition, the Amazfit GTR 4 boasts a double-band positioning, which is a particularly practical feature for people who are into cycling, marathon, triathlon, hiking, and anything that requires accurate location tracking.

ALSO READ: FITBIT CHARGE 5 VS. OURA RING 3: WHICH IS MORE ADVANCED HEALTH AND FITNESS TRACKER?

Amazfit GTR 4 Specs and Features

• 24/7 heart rate
• Resting heart rate
• Workout heart rate
• VO2 max
• Steps
• Calorie burn
• Flights climbed
• Recovery monitoring
• Sleep monitoring
• Blood oxygen monitoring
• Up to 14 days with regular use
• Water-resistant up to 50 meters

GET AMAZFIT GTR 4 HERE!

4. Apple Watch Series 9

If you want to stay within Apple’s ecosystem, the Apple Watch Series 9 is a good device to have. It has all the basic functionalities you need for activity tracking, plus you get a seamless experience with your Apple devices.

With Workout Mode, you can see your workout metrics right on your watch and customize them accordingly. These metrics include heart rate zones and customized intervals in a single view. Turning the digital crown revealed other metrics like segments and splits, elevation, and activity rings.

One of the things I love about the Apple Watch Series 9 is the Live Activity feature, which lets you see your current activity on your iPhone. And of course, the Apple Watch Series 9 comes with nifty emergency features for people who go hard, including fall detection, crash detection, and emergency SOS.

ALSO READ: OURA RING 3 VS. APPLE WATCH SERIES 9: WHICH IS BEST FOR SLEEP TRACKING?

Apple Watch Series 9 Specs and Features

• 24/7 heart rate
• Resting heart rate
• Workout heart rate
• VO2 max
• Steps
• Calorie burn
• Flights climbed
• Sleep tracking
• Blood oxygen monitoring
• Cycle tracking
• Up to 18 hours with regular use
• IP6x (Water-resistant up to 100m/Swim and dive-proof up to 50m)

GET APPLE WATCH SERIES 9 HERE!

5. Amazfit Cheetah Pro

If you are looking for a high-performance fitness tracker watch but don’t mind the technical air of classic watches, look for the Amazfit Cheetah Pro. Although it’s marketed as a running smartwatch, you can definitely take advantage of its robust specifications and sensors for your overall fitness. Like the Amazfit GTR 4, this smartwatch features a double-band positioning on top of the basic health monitoring functionalities.

ALSO READ: FITBIT CHARGE 5 VS. OURA RING 3: WHICH IS MORE ADVANCED HEALTH AND FITNESS TRACKER?

Amazfit GTR 4 Specs and Features

• 24/7 heart rate
• Resting heart rate
• Workout heart rate
• VO2 max
• Steps
• Calorie burn
• Flights climbed
• Sleep tracking
• Recovery monitoring
• Sleep monitoring
• Blood oxygen monitoring
• Up to 14 days with regular use
• Water-resistant up to 50 meters

GET AMAZFIT GTR 4 HERE!

That ends our list of the best fitness tracker watches! You have so many options available on the market. Nevertheless, choosing the best smartwatch for activity tracking should be based on your style, budget, and needs.

If you want to explore more smartwatches and fitness trackers, check out these guides:

• Best Heart Monitor Watches
• Best Smartwatches for Sleep Tracking
• Best Apple Watches
• Best Garmin Smartwatches
• Best Garmin Fitness Trackers
• Best Amazfit Smartwatches
• Best Fitbit Smartwatches and Fitness Trackers

For the latest wearable tech news and updates, follow Smart Ring News on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

The post Best Fitness Tracker Watches: What Is the Best Smartwatch to Track Activity? first appeared on Smart Ring News.

Smartwatches are the best way to keep track of your heart rate. Whether you want to monitor your workout heart rate or irregular heartbeat, smartwatches got you covered. In this guide, we selected our top picks for the Best Heart Monitor Watches in 2023!

Heart rate tracking is one of the first health metrics used in smartwatches, which is still the best wearable for this purpose. Smartwatches use a photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor, green LED, or red LED or a combination of all to get a precise of one’s heart rate. With its screen display, smartwatches are more convenient compared to other form factors when it comes to monitoring your heart rates since you get to see your heart rate, whether it gets below or above your normal range.

There are dozens of smartwatches on the market. However, not all brands are able to hit the nail right on the head when it comes to heart rate tracking. To give you an idea of which one you should consider, here’s our list of the best smartwatches for heart rate tracking:

1. Apple Watch Series 9 – Best Overall Heart Monitor Watch

If you want a reliable heart rate monitor watch and at the same time stay within the Apple ecosystem, the Apple Watch Series 9 is the best smartwatch for you. Apple’s latest flagship smartwatch uses a third-generation optical heart rate sensor that supports a range of 30 to 120 beats per minute. Its LED lights flash hundreds of times per second, allowing the smartwatch to count the number of times the heart beats each minute with accuracy.

Using the ECG app, you can get an ECG like that of a single-lead electrocardiogram. In addition, the Apple Watch Series 9 also sends irregular rhythm notifications when your heart rate goes abnormally low or high through the Heart Rate app. And, of course, you get basic metrics like resting heart rate (during sleep) and heart rate variability (for recovery monitoring).

ALSO READ: OURA RING 3 VS. APPLE WATCH SERIES 9: WHICH IS BEST FOR SLEEP TRACKING?

Apple Watch Series 9 Specs and Features

• Heart rate tracking
• Sleep tracking
• Activity tracking
• Blood oxygen monitoring
• Menstrual cycle tracking
• Up to 18 hours with regular use
• IP6x (Water-resistant up to 100m/Swim and dive-proof up to 50m)

GET APPLE WATCH SERIES 9 HERE!

2. Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 – Best Heart Monitor Watch for Workouts

For workout enthusiasts, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 is a godsend. On top of the basic metrics such as resting heart rate and heart rate variability, this smartwatch allows you to create a personalized heart rate zone based on your activities, which comes in handy when monitoring whether you go below or above what is normal.

Through its optical heart rate and electrical heart signal, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 also allows you to record your heart rate during workouts and measure it every 10 minutes when you are at rest. Compared to other smartwatches and heart monitors, Samsung’s smartwatch returns pretty accurate data. And best of all, the Galaxy Watch 6 can continuously monitor your heart rhythm.

ALSO READ: OURA RING 3 VS. SAMSUNG GALAXY WATCH 6: IS OURA BETTER THAN SAMSUNG GALAXY WATCH?

Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Specs and Features

• Heart rate tracking
• Sleep tracking
• Activity tracking
• Blood oxygen monitoring
• Menstrual cycle tracking
• Up to 30 hours with regular use
• IP68 and 5 ATM (water-resistant up to 50 meters)

GET SAMSUNG GALAXY WATCH 6 HERE!

3. Fitbit Versa 4

One of the most reliable heart monitor watches is the Fitbit Versa 4. Although it’s a very versatile wearable, its heart monitoring ability is close to medical-grade standards. It lets you track your heart rate during workouts and provides continuous heart rate monitoring. It also measures your resting heart rate, heart rate variability, breathing rate, respiration rate, and more. You have the option to personalize your heart rate zone too.

ALSO READ: FITBIT CHARGE 5 VS. OURA RING 3: WHICH IS MORE ADVANCED HEALTH AND FITNESS TRACKER?

Fitbit Versa 4 Specs and Features

• Heart rate tracking
• Sleep tracking
• Activity tracking
• Blood oxygen monitoring
• Menstrual cycle tracking
• Up to 6 days with regular use
• 5 ATM (water-resistant up to 50 meters)

GET FITBIT VERSA 4 HERE!

4. Google Pixel Watch 2

The Google Pixel Watch 2 is one of the most well-designed smartwatches available. Outside its stunning design, this smartwatch also has one of the most advanced smartwatches released in 2023. It boasts the multi-path heart rate sensor, replacing Google’s old heart rate sensor. This in particular is useful for tracking your heart rate during rigorous activities.

Using the continuous electrodermal activity (cEDA) sensor in combination with heart rates, the Pixel Watch 2 is capable of detecting the user’s stress levels through sweat. For detected stressors, the user will be asked to record their current mood so the Google Pixel Watch app can give recommendations on what to do, whether to go for a walk or do breathing exercises.

ALSO READ: OURA RING VS. GARMIN FENIX 7: WHICH MULTISPORTS WEARABLE WINS?

Google Pixel Watch 2 Specs and Features

• Heart rate tracking
• Sleep tracking
• Activity tracking
• Blood oxygen monitoring
• Menstrual cycle tracking
• Up to 6 days with regular use
• IP68 and 5 ATM (water-resistant up to 50 meters)

GET GOOGLE PIXEL WATCH 2 HERE!

That wraps up our list of the best smartwatches for heart rate monitoring. The smartwatch market is packed with options, but these are some of the best you can take into consideration. hope this list has helped you find the one that you need.

If you want to explore the more smartwatches and fitness trackers, check out these guides:

• Best Smartwatches for Sleep Tracking
• Best Apple Watches
• Best Garmin Smartwatches
• Best Garmin Fitness Trackers
• Best Amazfit Smartwatches
• Best Fitbit Smartwatches and Fitness Trackers

For the latest wearable tech news and updates, follow Smart Ring News on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

The post Best Heart Monitor Watches: Which Smartwatch Is Best for Heart Rate Tracking? first appeared on Smart Ring News.