# Long-term Subscription Obligations Aside, the Oura Ring Reigns Supreme
In the realm of wearable health technology, smart rings have surfaced as a modern and subtle substitute for standard smartwatches. Among the many choices on the market, the **Oura Ring** has persistently distinguished itself as the frontrunner in this specialized field. With the launch of the **Oura Ring 4**, the brand further cements its authority, even amidst emerging rivals like the **Samsung Galaxy Ring**. Although there are some limitations, such as the necessity for a monthly subscription to fully utilize its best features, the Oura Ring remains the preferred selection for individuals seeking precise health monitoring, exceptional design, and a fluid user experience.
## Oura Ring 4 vs. Samsung Galaxy Ring: A Brief Comparison
The Oura Ring 4 and Samsung Galaxy Ring are crafted to deliver 24/7 health monitoring in a compact, fashionable design. Nonetheless, despite the attention garnered by Samsung’s Galaxy Ring as a new entrant, it generally lags behind the Oura Ring 4 in several critical aspects.
### Oura Ring 4: Advantages and Disadvantages
**Advantages:**
– **Elegant, sturdy build**: The Oura Ring 4 boasts a fully flush titanium inner ring, ensuring both comfort and scratch resistance.
– **Enhanced sensor precision**: This ring excels in health monitoring, providing accurate data on heart rate, sleep quality, and activity levels.
– **Heart rate monitoring with workout detection**: The Oura Ring 4 automatically recognizes various exercises, including unique activities like dancing.
– **Exceptional battery longevity**: With the ability to last up to 10 days, the Oura Ring 4 surpasses most competitors.
– **Upgraded app functionality**: The revamped Oura app incorporates AI-driven features such as meal tracking and tailored health insights.
**Disadvantages:**
– **Monthly subscription needed**: Users must pay a $5.99 monthly fee to unlock the most valuable features.
– **Lacks a charging case**: Unlike the Galaxy Ring, the Oura Ring 4 does not come with a portable charging case.
– **Limited Android availability**: Features like “Find My Ring” are presently exclusive to iOS, although Android support is in the works.
– **No official protective covers**: Users need to handle their ring carefully, as protective covers are not available.
### Samsung Galaxy Ring: Advantages and Disadvantages
**Advantages:**
– **One-week battery life**: The Samsung Galaxy Ring offers a reliable battery life, lasting up to a week on a single charge.
– **Attractive design**: Samsung’s inaugural smart ring is visually appealing and comfortable to wear.
– **Automatic tracking for walking and running**: The Galaxy Ring automatically logs basic activities such as walking and running.
– **Integration with Samsung ecosystem**: Features like “Find My Ring” and AI-driven insights are accessible when connected to Samsung Galaxy devices.
**Disadvantages:**
– **Basic fitness tracking**: The Galaxy Ring’s health monitoring capabilities are limited and often inaccurate, particularly for more vigorous workouts.
– **No AFib detection**: Unlike many smartwatches, the Galaxy Ring does not feature advanced health monitoring such as atrial fibrillation (AFib) detection.
– **Limited gesture controls**: Gesture functionalities are only compatible with Galaxy phones and are somewhat restricted.
– **High cost**: At $399, the Galaxy Ring is pricier than numerous smartwatches, yet comes with fewer features.
– **Limited compatibility with other devices**: Many functionalities are exclusive to Samsung phones, which may deter users of different Android devices.
## Oura Ring 4 vs. Samsung Galaxy Ring: Price and Value
Regarding upfront pricing, the Oura Ring 4 is marginally less expensive than the Galaxy Ring, depending on the chosen finish. The Oura Ring 4 starts at $349 for Black and Silver finishes, while the Brushed Silver variant is priced at $399. In contrast, the Galaxy Ring is set at $399 for all finishes (Black, Silver, and Gold).
However, it is important to note that the Oura Ring 4 requires a monthly subscription of $5.99 to unlock its comprehensive features, inclusive of advanced health insights and AI tools. Over time, this subscription fee accumulates, making the Oura Ring a more costly long-term commitment compared to the Galaxy Ring, which does not necessitate a subscription.
Nevertheless, the Oura Ring’s superior accuracy in health tracking and added features justify the subscription cost for users who value in-depth health data.
## Design and Battery Performance
Both the Oura Ring 4 and Samsung Galaxy Ring are designed to resemble ordinary rings, albeit slightly bulkier than typical jewelry. Both rings are made from titanium, but the Oura Ring 4 benefits from a fully flush titanium interior, eliminating the discomfort that protruding sensors in the Galaxy Ring might cause.
