Smart rings are becoming the go-to fitness trackers for many. Like any tech accessory, smart rings come in various sizes but are mostly circular. With more options entering the market, choosing the right one can be confusing. This guide will help demystify smart rings and show you how to find the one that best fulfills your needs.
Before we dive in, let’s get a basic understanding of what a smart ring is and what it can and cannot do.
A smart ring is a wearable that resembles a regular ring but includes smart capabilities, such as the ability to make wireless payments. Most smart rings offer functionalities like fitness tracking, which includes a step counter, heart rate monitoring, sports activity tracking, and notification alerts. Some rings can also be used as a smartphone camera shutter button.
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Also read | Can smart rings reshape wearable tech? Here’s what we think
The capabilities of a smart ring largely depend on its price, with the most advanced models costing as much as the latest smartwatches from Apple or Samsung.
Smart rings come in various styles, with some made from premium materials like titanium, others featuring a glass-like finish, and some made from plastic or polycarbonate. They are also available in multiple shades and designs, allowing users to accessorise them according to their outfits.
Smart rings with/without subscriptions
A smart ring offers similar features to a smartwatch without a display. (Representational Image/Pixabay)
Some smart rings, without an active subscription, are just like regular rings and don’t offer any additional value beyond aesthetics. On the other hand, some smart rings function as standalone devices without a subscription, but to get the most out of them, they need to be paired with an Android smartphone via a compatible app.
It’s also important to note that some smart rings are only compatible with either Android or iOS, while most are compatible with both.
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Make sure to get the size right
The Luna smart ring can deliver up to 7 days of battery life. (Image: Noise)
When selecting a smart ring, unlike a smartwatch or band that can be easily adjusted, it’s crucial to choose the right size for optimal fit and functionality. Many smart ring makers provide dummy ring kits to help determine the correct size, and despite the additional cost, we recommend using these kits.
Battery life is also a significant consideration when choosing a smart ring. Generally, the more features a smart ring has, the shorter its battery life, though there are exceptions.
With these factors in mind, let’s explore five unique smart rings worth considering in 2024:
HMDO smart ring
One of the most affordable smart ring (Image credit: HMDO)
Priced at Rs 5,999, this smart ring is one of the most affordable options available, offering features such as heart rate and SpO2 tracking. Despite its affordability, it boasts a ceramic build with a metal finish and is water and dust-resistant up to 5ATM. Additionally, it can control music on a paired smartphone and serve as a camera shutter button. However, being from an unknown brand, caution is advised.
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boAt Smartring Gen-1
Boat smart ring can be used to control music playback (Image credit: Boat)
The boAt Smartring Gen-1 is priced at Rs 8,999 and features a ceramic and metal build. This model includes smart touch controls and is water-resistant up to 5 ATM. Compatible with both Android and iOS devices, it tracks body temperature, SpO2, manages sleep, and serves as a menstrual cycle tracker. It offers slightly over 2 hours of battery life on a single charge and is available in multiple sizes.
aaboRing
aaboRing smart ring (Image credit: aaboRing)
Priced at Rs 13,250 and available in a glittering gold shade, this smart ring offers a premium look and feel. It is IP68-rated for water and dust resistance and is crafted from titanium, making it lightweight and durable. Depending on usage, the aaboRing can provide anywhere between four to seven days of battery life.
Ultrahuman Ring Air
The Ultrahuman Ring AIR is pictured here. (Image: Ultrahuman)
If you’re seeking a fitness-centric smart ring, consider the Ultrahuman Ring Air, priced at Rs 28,499, though it leans toward the expensive side. The ring boasts up to six days of battery life and includes fitness tracking features like moment index, sleep index, fitness score, and workout tracking. Available in ten sizes and over five shades, including Bionic Gold and Space Silver, it offers a variety of options to suit different preferences.
7 Ring
A payment-centric smart ring (Image credit: 7 Ring)
To purchase the 7 Ring smart ring, an invitation is required. Unlike other smart rings, it is specifically designed for digital payments. Priced at Rs 5,577, the 7 Ring functions like a digital card for contactless payments, requiring users to top up a prepaid wallet. Each order includes a complimentary ring size kit to ensure proper fit selection.
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Also read | Samsung’s first smart ring to debut at Mobile World Congress 2024: Report
While these are among the smart rings currently available in the Indian market, brands like Samsung are preparing to launch their own smart rings with AI features. Several other smartphone brands are also anticipated to introduce their own smart rings soon.
