From on the wrist devices such as Fitbit to smaller rings from Oura, consumers are spoilt for choice. However, it can be hard to decide which one to go for, especially when trying them for the first time. Oura Ring vs Smartwatch? We took a look at the most frequently asked questions about the Oura Ring and have used Fitbit as a smartwatch example, so you can feel confident in choosing the device that works best for your needs.
How Do Oura Ring and Fitbit Devices Work?
In 2007, Fitbit was one of the first suppliers of fitness wearables globally. They can take a lot of responsibility for the ongoing popularity of these devices! Their devices are wrist-worn and come as fitness trackers or smartwatches. They offer in-depth and insightful tracking capabilities that focus on both health and wellbeing.
The Oura Ring is much newer to the smart scene. It was first launched in 2015 after a Kickstarter campaign was used to secure the initial funding. Since its inception, there have been two generations of Oura Rings released. The ring sits comfortably on your finger and provides tracking data about your movements and your sleep.
Does Oura Ring Have GPS Like Fitbit Devices?
Fitbit devices offer GPS either built-in to their devices or as a connected service that uses your phone. This capability helps you track your movements more accurately and provides you with a clear overview of where you have been and what you have done during the day.
The Oura Ring does not come with built-in GPS, nor does it work via connected services, meaning that you cannot use the device to track your exercise journeys. To be able to do this, you will need to purchase a separate device. However, this shouldn’t automatically put you off buying an Oura Ring. You may not need GPS if you are not an avid runner. The Oura Ring does come with a Find My Bluetooth Device capability to help you find it if you have misplaced it.
Do Oura Ring & Fitbit Have a Monthly Fee?
When you choose a fitness device, you can be sure that there will be some type of companion app that comes with it and provides you with greater insights and data to analyze. With the Fitbit, the basic app is free to download and use and gives you access to the standard data that you will need to check your progress and track your sleep. However, there is also the option to pay a monthly subscription fee to get Fitbit Premium, and this provides you with more workouts, meditations, challenges, and features that can help you get more from life.
The Oura Ring app is free to download and use, and there is no paid subscription offer, meaning that all the data you can access is free to see whenever you need it. The app is vital to making good use of your ring as the device does not have a screen for you to access.
Does Oura Ring Track Fitness Like Fitbit?
Fitbit devices are simple to use and require you to just strap them on and let them track your info and show you your results as your day progresses, making them a simple way to put your health and wellbeing at the top of your priority list.
The Oura Ring aims to do the same type of work for you and uses sensors to track your efforts and convert them into data to monitor your progress. It’s waterproof up to 100 meters and will also track your sleep, but it cannot track workouts in real-time and doesn’t come with an alarm feature. The most important thing to remember about the Oura Ring is that you will need to purchase one that fits you snugly to allow the sensors to work effectively – the good news is that it comes in a range of sizes. Furthermore, you will get a sizing kit to help you work out the best option before finalizing your ring choice.
What is More Accurate – Oura Ring or Fitbit?
Accuracy is often the most important factor for users when they are considering a new device, and this is an area in which Fitbit excels, especially in their GPS devices. The company is constantly working hard to improve its devices, and as a user, you can be sure that the data you get is as accurate as possible.
The Oura Ring does not provide as much data as the Fitbit, but users need to remember to get a ring that fits tightly to get the most accurate data readings. If your Oura Ring is loose, you cannot trust the information provided in the companion app, making it a pointless purchase.
How Good is the Oura Ring Battery?
The Oura Ring comes with a battery life of between four and seven days and takes around an hour and a half to charge fully for use. This means that you will probably get the working week completed without having to think about plugging in.
Fitbit devices are also good for around a week when fully charged, but if the device you choose has GPS and you use it a lot, then you can expect to see that battery life drop significantly.
Which Should I Buy – Oura Ring or Fitbit?
So, that concludes our look at the Oura Ring vs Smartwatch. To sum up, choosing to buy between Fitbit devices and Oura Ring options is a choice that comes down to whether you want something on your wrist or your hand! Fitbit devices come in a range of shapes and sizes, offering the smart features that many of us are looking for.
However, Oura Ring is much more discreet and comes in different design options to suit your style, allowing you to track without having to wear a smart device on your wrist. This is particularly good if you have a classic timepiece that you love and don’t want to take off!
We love both brands but if we had to choose between Oura Ring vs Smartwatch, we’d say Fitbit for function and Oura Ring for form
If you want a more detailed review of either of these devices, check out our comprehensive review of the Oura Ring and find out everything you need to know about the latest Fitbit Charge 5.
Follow us on social media to stay up to date with our latest articles
Last Updated on September 20, 2021
A top of the line copywriter with more than a decade of writing experience with many high-end and diverse multinational clients. Lots of experience and interest in writing about and implementing technology. Scott manages the creation of content for us as a freelancer service and even though he is based in the UK, his writers can adapt and cater to our audience which is mostly US based.
Currently living a rural life in South Yorkshire, United Kingdom and devoted to work. Owner of Anglo Content writing services.