Oura Ring 5 vs. Oura Ring 4: I compared both smart rings for health tracking - you should buy this one

2026-06-26 · Source: News and Advice on the World's Latest Innovations | ZDNET · Field: Technology & Digital — Internet of Things (IoT) & Connected Devices, Medical Devices & Health Technology, Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning · Depth: Fundamental Awareness, short

Summary

Oura has released its Oura Ring 5, a redesigned smart ring that is 40% smaller, thinner, and more comfortable than its predecessor, the Oura Ring 4. Priced at \$399, the Oura Ring 5 is \$50 more expensive than the Oura Ring 4, which starts at \$349. Key upgrades for the Oura Ring 5 include an extended battery life of six to nine days, compared to the Oura Ring 4's five to eight days, and enhanced durability with a scratch-resistant vapor deposition coating and an upgraded IP68 rating. Its dimensions are 6.09 mm wide and 2.28 mm thick, weighing 2-2.69g, while the Oura Ring 4 is 7.99 mm wide and 2.88 mm thick, weighing 3.3-5.2g. The Oura Ring 5 is available in sizes six to 13, whereas the Oura Ring 4 offers a broader range from four to 15. Notably, both rings receive the same software updates, including new features like Health Radar for nighttime breathing and sleep blood pressure, and partnerships with ResMed and Counsel Health for medical AI tools and GLP-1 Insights.

Key takeaway

For individuals prioritizing a discreet, comfortable smart ring with extended battery life and enhanced durability, you should consider the Oura Ring 5, despite its higher \$399 price. If a broader size range (sizes four to 15) or a lower entry cost of \$349 is more critical, the Oura Ring 4 remains a viable option, as it receives the same health tracking software updates, including new AI-powered medical tools.

Key insights

The Oura Ring 5 offers a smaller, more durable design and longer battery life, while software features remain consistent with the Oura Ring 4.

Principles

• Design evolution prioritizes comfort and discretion.
• Software parity maintains feature access across generations.
• Durability enhancements improve device longevity.

Method

The article compares specifications and features of Oura Ring 5 and Oura Ring 4 to guide purchasing decisions based on design, battery, durability, size, and cost.

In practice

• Opt for Oura Ring 5 for smaller form factor.
• Choose Oura Ring 4 for broader size range.
• Consider Oura Ring 4 for cost savings.

Topics

• Smart Rings
• Wearable Technology
• Health Tracking
• Oura Ring 5
• Oura Ring 4
• Product Comparison
• Biometric Monitoring

Best for: General Interest, AI Product Manager, Product Manager

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by News and Advice on the World's Latest Innovations | ZDNET.