Samsung Galaxy Ring Outperforms Apple Watch in Health Insights
The recently launched Samsung Galaxy Ring is garnering attention for its impressive health tracking capabilities, surpassing even the popular Apple Watch in several key areas. Priced at $399, this smart ring offers a unique blend of comfort and functionality, making it an appealing choice for those invested in digital health. Unlike its main competitor, the Oura Ring, which requires a $5.99 monthly subscription, the Galaxy Ring operates without ongoing fees.
Smart wearable technologies are experiencing a surge in popularity, with innovative products like the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses and the highly anticipated Apple Vision Pro making headlines alongside Samsung’s latest offering. For the past decade, the smart ring market has largely been dominated by smaller companies like Oura and Motiv. Samsung, however, has made a significant entrance, elevating the smart ring category to new heights.
For approximately two weeks in early 2024, I tested a matte black size 10 Galaxy Ring, after previously using the Oura Horizon Stealth and the Motiv ring. My experience with the Galaxy Ring was notably positive, with its design and functionality standing out. The device feels mature and polished, a testament to Samsung’s commitment to learning from previous iterations of smart rings and smartwatches.
The Galaxy Ring tracks health metrics continuously, providing users with actionable insights via the Samsung Health app. One notable feature is the “Energy” score, which assesses overall wellness based on various metrics, primarily sleep quality and activity levels. For instance, when I noted an Energy score of 78, the app indicated that my previous day’s activity was insufficient, prompting me to increase my moderate-to-vigorous exercise from six minutes to a recommended range of 33 to 87 minutes. This guidance was instrumental in enhancing my energy levels during the testing period.
The stress tracking capabilities of the Galaxy Ring are equally impressive. Utilizing heart rate variability (HRV) data from its advanced optical bio-signal sensor, the device provides timely stress assessments. When stress levels spiked, the app offered guided breathing exercises, allowing for personalized stress management sessions. While the Apple Watch also features HRV tracking and mindfulness tools, it lacks the direct stress insights that the Galaxy Ring provides.
Samsung’s design choices also deserve commendation. The Galaxy Ring is slightly thinner and lighter than the Oura Ring, featuring a concave design that helps prevent scratches. It comes with a unique charging case that allows for wireless recharging on the go, a practical advantage over traditional dock chargers.
Despite its strengths, the Galaxy Ring has some limitations. The activity sensor has been known to overestimate step counts by approximately 10%, with initial testing showing discrepancies as high as 20% when compared to the Apple Watch and Oura Ring. Although this discrepancy improved over time, it remains a concern for users focused on precise fitness tracking.
Additionally, the Galaxy Ring currently supports Android devices, with optimal integration for Samsung smartphones and smartwatches. This limitation may deter potential users on iOS devices, who might consider alternatives like the Oura Ring or Ultrahuman Ring Air.
In summary, the Galaxy Ring stands out in the wearable technology landscape, particularly for users seeking actionable health insights without the distractions of a smartwatch. With features that support sleep tracking and stress management, it presents a compelling choice for health-conscious individuals. As the market continues to evolve, Samsung’s Galaxy Ring may well be the device that many have been waiting for.
As of August 1, 2025, comparisons with the Oura Ring reveal that while both devices have unique advantages, the Galaxy Ring’s subscription-free model and advanced health insights make it a noteworthy contender in the realm of smart wearables.
