Oura Ring 4 and Circular Ring 2 Face Off in Smart Tech Showdown

The growing market for smart wearables sees a competitive clash between the Oura Ring 4 and the Circular Ring 2, both priced at $349. The Circular Ring 2, which offers a subscription-optional model, features an impressive battery life of up to eight days, ECG readings, and AFib detection. As testing continues, initial impressions of the Circular Ring 2 are positive, but comparisons with the Oura Ring 4 reveal distinct advantages and disadvantages across several categories.

Price Comparison

The pricing structure of these two smart rings presents a significant point of differentiation. The Oura Ring 4 requires a monthly subscription of $5.99 for access to its app, while the Circular Ring 2 allows users to utilize most features without ongoing fees. Early supporters of the Circular Ring 2 have expressed frustration over potential paywalled features for forthcoming tools like blood pressure and glucose monitoring. Circular maintains that these features were never part of the initial offering but rather “stretch goals” for the device. Currently, the anticipated costs for these features remain unknown, with projected availability set for late 2025 and early 2026.

Despite this uncertainty, the Circular Ring 2 emerges as a winner in the pricing category due to its core features being free for users.

Sizes and Finishes

In terms of sizing and design, the Oura Ring 4 offers a wider range, available in sizes 4 through 15 with various finishes including Gold, Rose Gold, Silver, Brushed Titanium, Black, and Stealth. The Circular Ring 2, in contrast, is available in sizes 6 through 14 and offers four color options: Gold, Rose Gold, Black, and Silver.

While Circular may have fewer options, its digital sizing process outperforms Oura’s traditional method, which involves mailing a kit of plastic dummy rings. The Circular Ring 2 can be sized conveniently through its app, making this aspect a draw between the two products.

Design and Durability

Both smart rings feature an exterior made from titanium, which contributes to their durability. However, initial observations suggest that the Circular Ring 2 may be more prone to scratches, even after a short period of wear. Comfort levels differ, with the recessed sensors of the Oura Ring 4 providing a more comfortable fit than the Circular Ring 2, which has protruding sensors that can leave indentations on the finger.

The Circular Ring 2 is rated IP68 for dust and moisture resistance, allowing wear during activities like showering. The Oura Ring 4 stands out with a water resistance rating of up to 50 meters, making it suitable for swimming.

Health Monitoring Features

Both rings come equipped with sensors for heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and body temperature, as well as accelerometers for movement tracking. The Oura Ring 4 is renowned for its holistic data accuracy, while the Circular Ring 2 shows promise with its data metrics.

Both applications provide insights into vital signs, sleep quality, and energy levels, along with women’s health tracking. Notably, the Circular Ring 2 distinguishes itself by offering ECG readings and the ability to detect AFib. Despite this advantage, the Oura Ring 4’s comprehensive data tracking and insights give it the edge in this category.

Fitness Tracking Capabilities

In terms of fitness features, the Oura Ring 4 excels with its ability to automatically detect and track over 40 different workout types, while the Circular Ring 2 can only identify basic activities like walking and running. Both rings require a smartphone for GPS data, but the Oura Ring 4’s superior tracking capabilities solidify its position as the better option for fitness enthusiasts.

Battery Life and Charging Options

Both devices market a battery life of up to eight days per charge. However, real-world testing suggests that the Oura Ring 4 typically lasts closer to six days, while preliminary observations indicate that the Circular Ring 2 may last around seven days. Additionally, the Circular Ring 2 includes a travel-friendly charging case that can recharge the device to full capacity in just 30 minutes, providing a significant advantage over its competitor.

Conclusion: Overall Assessment

While both the Oura Ring 4 and Circular Ring 2 are priced similarly at $349, the Oura Ring 4 ultimately presents a stronger case as the superior smart ring due to its durability, comprehensive wellness insights, and enhanced fitness tracking capabilities. Nonetheless, the Circular Ring 2 holds advantages in battery life and heart health monitoring, particularly with its ECG and AFib detection features. As the technology evolves, potential future updates could level the playing field between these two innovative devices.

For those in the market for smart rings, the Oura Ring 4 remains the leading choice, but the Circular Ring 2’s unique offerings warrant consideration as well.