Apps and tools for a calm, enjoyable life

Oura Ring

$299

Oura Ring is a sleek, smart ring that provides personalized insights into your sleep patterns and overall health by tracking your body's vital signs.

Our take

A discreet and stylish way to track your sleep and health.

Alright, so the Oura Ring is one of those things that make you go, "Do I really need another gadget in my life?" But honestly, it's not just any gadget. It's a sleek little ring that tracks your sleep, activity, and overall well-being. What really stands out is how it manages to pack all that tech into something that just looks like a regular ring. No bulky watches or extra screens to deal with. If you’re looking for something discreet, this is it. But the question is, does it really do what it promises?

When it comes to sleep tracking, the Oura Ring is pretty solid. It breaks down your sleep into deep, light, and REM stages, and gives you a score based on how well you slept. The insights can be eye-opening, especially if you’re the kind of person who has no idea why you're exhausted after a "full" night's sleep. But here's the kicker: it's only as good as your dedication to interpreting the data. If you're not going to bother looking at the details, it might just feel like another thing buzzing for your attention.

On the activity front, it's a bit of a mixed bag. The ring tracks your steps and calories burned, which is neat, but it's not going to be as comprehensive as a full-blown fitness tracker like a Fitbit or an Apple Watch. If hardcore fitness tracking is your thing, you might find the Oura a little lacking. It’s more about balance and recovery than counting every single step you take. So, if you’re more into holistic wellness than just numbers, this could still work for you.

Battery life is another big plus. The Oura Ring can go for about a week on a single charge, which is refreshing in a world where everything else seems to need a daily top-up. Charging it is pretty straightforward too, just pop it on a little dock. But remember, it’s a ring, so if you’re rough on your hands, you might find it gets scratched or dinged up over time. It’s durable, don’t get me wrong, but it’s still jewelry at the end of the day.

Overall, the Oura Ring is a cool piece of tech if you’re into keeping tabs on your sleep and general wellness without having to wear something on your wrist 24/7. It’s not perfect, and it’s definitely not for everyone. If you’re expecting it to revolutionize your health all by itself, you might want to adjust those expectations. But if you’re looking for a sleek, subtle way to get a better handle on how your lifestyle affects your sleep and recovery, it’s worth considering.

Subscription-based

$10.99/month

$59.99/year