Oura Ring 5 Six-Week Review: Is the World's Smallest Smart Ring Worth the Upgrade?
After six weeks of testing, we dive into the Oura Ring 5. Discover the 3 things we love—including its tiny design—and 2 things Oura needs to fix.
The Evolution of the Smart Ring: A Six-Week Deep Dive
For those tracking their health, the transition from wrist-worn wearables to smart rings has been a game-changer in comfort and discretion. After wearing the Oura Ring 5 for six consecutive weeks, it is clear that Oura is doubling down on the philosophy that the best technology is the kind you forget you're wearing. As a fitness editor who has used Oura devices since the Generation 3 launch in 2021, the jump to the fifth iteration brings a mixture of impressive hardware refinements and a few lingering corporate frustrations.
The Highlights: 3 Things We Love
1. Unmatched Comfort and Minimalist Design
The most immediate and striking difference is the physical footprint. The Oura Ring 5 is 40% smaller than its predecessor, the Oura Ring 4. This isn't just a statistic; it's a tactile improvement. The ring "disappears" on the finger, reducing the bulk that often makes smart rings feel like chunky jewelry. For users seeking a fitness tracker that blends seamlessly into their professional and personal life, this design is a triumph.
Pro Tip on Sizing: Precision is key. Because fingers swell during the night and shrink in colder temperatures, we highly recommend using the sizing kit for a full 24-hour cycle. The ideal fit is snug enough to prevent the ring from spinning, but loose enough to avoid restricting circulation. A good rule of thumb from Oura: if you need a bit of water to help slide it off, it's likely the correct size.
2. Enhanced Battery Performance and Charging
Charging a dozen different devices can feel like a full-time job. Fortunately, the Oura Ring 5 eases this burden. The battery easily lasts about a week on a single charge, which is a significant relief for those who prefer "low power mode" living. Furthermore, the charging speed has been improved. The ability to top up the ring quickly before heading to bed ensures that users don't miss out on critical overnight sleep data.
3. Industrial-Grade Durability
One of the primary concerns with smart rings is the inevitable accumulation of scratches, especially for those who lift weights at the gym. Oura has implemented a new, more resilient coating on the Ring 5. After six weeks of daily wear and tear, the device remains remarkably pristine. The increased scratch resistance makes it a viable option for athletes and gym-goers who don't want to baby their hardware.
The Drawbacks: 2 Things That Need Improvement
1. The 'Software Plateau'
From a purely functional standpoint, there is very little software-driven incentive to upgrade if you already own an Oura Ring 4. Oura has been commendable in its commitment to older hardware, rolling out new features like Live Activity Tracking and advanced women's health metrics across multiple generations. While the Ring 5 hardware is superior, the digital experience is virtually identical to the Ring 4, meaning you are paying primarily for the smaller form factor.
2. The Lack of a Trade-In Ecosystem
Perhaps the biggest point of contention is Oura's lack of a formal trade-in scheme. While the company allows users to send old rings back for recycling, there is no financial credit offered toward the new model. For loyalists who have paid monthly subscriptions for years, the requirement to pay full price for a new ring just to get a smaller size feels like a missed opportunity for customer loyalty.
Final Verdict: Should You Upgrade?
The Oura Ring 5 is a masterclass in wearable ergonomics. If you are coming from an older Generation 3 device, the improvements in size, battery, and durability make this a compelling upgrade. However, if you currently own the Oura Ring 4 and aren't bothered by its size, the software parity suggests you can safely stick with your current device until a more significant functional leap occurs.
