Oura Ring 4: Slimmer Design, Superior Tracking, and Longer Battery Life
The Oura Ring 4 offers a slimmer design, improved comfort, and enhanced tracking accuracy with new algorithms and an expanded app. Available for $349.
Oura has just unveiled the 4th generation of its popular smart ring, bringing noteworthy updates to the already acclaimed fitness tracker. The Oura Ring 4 features a slimmer all-titanium design, recessed sensors for greater comfort, and new algorithms to improve measurement accuracy. These enhancements address both aesthetic and performance concerns, offering a refined experience for long-time fans and newcomers alike.
What's New in Oura Ring 4?
Slimmer, Sleeker Design
One of the most significant changes is the ring's design. Oura Ring 4 is slimmer and lighter, weighing between 3.3 and 5.2 grams depending on the size. The new recessed sensors eliminate the small but noticeable bumps on the inner surface, creating a smoother fit that enhances comfort during 24/7 wear. This update is particularly relevant for those who found earlier versions a bit clunky for activities like sleep or strenuous workouts.
Expanded Sizing and Durable Finish
Oura has expanded its sizing range from 8 to 12 options, now including a size 4 to better accommodate a growing female user base. The 4th-gen ring is also available in six colors, including a newly updated Black with a tungsten PVD coating for increased durability and a deeper black aesthetic. These tweaks help the ring fit seamlessly into everyday wear, whether you're at the gym or attending a formal event.
Smart Sensing Platform for Enhanced Accuracy
The Oura Ring 4’s most impressive upgrade is its Smart Sensing technology, which significantly improves the accuracy of various health metrics. New algorithms now increase the number of signal pathways from eight to 18, meaning the ring adapts better to finger movement and position throughout the day. This improvement is key for those who find themselves constantly shifting their ring or experiencing minor swelling.
The enhanced sensors also improve tracking for blood oxygen levels (SpO2), sleep metrics, and heart rate monitoring. In a recent Oura-run study, the Ring 4 showed a 120% improvement in signal quality for blood oxygen, and a 15% increase in accuracy for the Breathing Disturbance Index (BDI), which could be invaluable for people monitoring sleep apnea or other conditions.
Battery Life Boost
One of the more practical improvements is the ring's battery life. With up to eight days of usage on a single charge (compared to three days in the Gen3), Oura Ring 4 drastically reduces the need for frequent charging, allowing for more seamless data collection without interruptions. The redesigned charging base now includes a cover, adding protection and preventing accidental disconnections.
Upgraded App and Expanded Metrics
Alongside the new hardware, Oura is launching a redesigned app that simplifies how users interact with their data. The app divides information into three main sections: Today (daily metrics like readiness and sleep), Vitals (in-depth insights), and My Health (long-term trends). The new Timeline feature logs meals, workouts, and meditations throughout the day, offering a more comprehensive picture of your wellness.
Additionally, Oura continues to expand its women’s health tracking features, adding fertility insights and more precise menstrual cycle data. The app also introduces Daily Stress, which tracks how physical activity impacts stress levels, allowing users to overlay tags such as "alcohol" or "meditation" to see correlations.
Final Thoughts: A Worthy Upgrade?
At $349, Oura Ring 4 is priced similarly to its predecessor, though the price varies slightly by region. While the updates are mostly incremental rather than revolutionary, the improved comfort, accuracy, and battery life make it a solid upgrade for current users and a compelling option for new customers. Whether you’re tracking sleep, stress, or overall wellness, Oura Ring 4 continues to lead the market in discreet, high-precision wearables.
