If you’re looking for a smart wearable that you almost forget you’re wearing — yet that tracks sleep, recovery, heart-rate variability and more — then the Oura Ring Gen 4 (also called “Ring 4”) likely caught your eye. But with a premium price, subscription plan and new hardware claims, the big question is: Is the Oura Ring Gen 4 worth it?
In this guide we’ll walk through its key features, how it compares with prior models (and rivals), the real-world pros and cons, and whether it makes sense for you. By the end you should feel confident about whether to buy, upgrade or wait.
What’s New in the Oura Ring Gen 4?
Hardware & Design Upgrades
- The Ring 4 now uses a fully titanium build, with sizes from 4–15 (wider size range) and six finishes (Black, Silver, Brushed Silver, Stealth, Gold, Rose Gold). (techadvisor.com)
- Sensors are recessed, with interior height of ~0.3 mm (down from ~1.3 mm in Gen3) making it flatter against the finger. (moblifix.com)
- Battery life improved: up to 8 days in typical use. (tomsguide.com)
- New “Smart Sensing” platform: 18 signal pathways (vs 8 in Gen3) and adaptive algorithms for better accuracy under different conditions. (wareable.com)
Key Feature Upgrades
- Enhanced SpO₂ (blood oxygen) sensing: up to ~30% better accuracy claimed. (moblifix.com)
- Automatic Activity Detection (AAD): Ring automatically detects 40+ different activities (newer Gen4 app update) rather than relying only on sleep/recovery. (ouraring.com)
- Improved app and ecosystem: new interface (Today, Vitals, My Health tabs) and better integration with third-party apps. (ouraring.com)
Strengths: Where The Oura Ring Gen 4 Excels
Sleep & Recovery Metrics
- Reviews point out that Oura remains one of the best smart rings for sleep stage detection (deep, REM, light), restfulness, HRV, temperature trends. (moblifix.com)
- Readiness Score (composite of sleep, HRV, activity) gives actionable guidance: “Are you recovered/ready?” rather than just raw stats.
Durability & Wearability
- Reviewers found the Gen4 to hold up well in real-world use (gym, outdoor, swim) over months, with minimal damage. (livescience.com)
- Thanks to titanium build and flatter profile, it’s more comfortable than earlier models and more discrete.
Battery Life & Sizing Flexibility
- Up to ~8 days battery on a charge is strong for a wearable that tracks 24/7.
- Wider size range (4-15) and more finishes make it more accessible to more users.
Weaknesses: What to Consider Before Buying
Price & Subscription Model
- Price starts at around US $349 for base finishes, going higher in premium colours. (gadgets360.com)
- Requires the Oura Membership (subscription) to unlock full features and historical data.
- If you already own a Gen3 and are satisfied, the difference may be marginal for many users.
Fit & Performance Caveats
- Some reviewers find the ring still chunky or heavier than ideal for certain fingers or for sports where you clench fist often. (livescience.com)
- Accuracy is strong overall, but the ring is less suited for detailed workout metrics (e.g., GPS pace/cadence) compared to dedicated fitness watches. (moblifix.com)
Real-World Reports of Issues
- While many users report good experiences, there are reports of battery degradation, charging/connection problems or durability issues with some production lots. (reddit.com)
- Early adopters suggest waiting a few months or verifying warranty/support if you’re concerned about longevity.
Who Should Buy (or Upgrade) – And Who Should Wait
Good Candidate Profiles
You should strongly consider the Oura Ring Gen 4 if you:
- Prioritise sleep, recovery and readiness tracking more than workout metrics.
- Prefer a discreet wearable (ring) rather than a wrist device.
- Are buying new and don’t own Gen3 or earlier.
- Want premium build/materials and durable everyday wear.
May Want to Wait or Stick with Previous Version
You may want to hold off or keep your current ring if you:
- Already own a Gen 3 and feel its performance is sufficient. Many users feel the upgrade gives incremental rather than radical benefits. > “Honestly I cannot find a single reason to upgrade that would make the price worth it.” (reddit.com)
- Need advanced sport/fitness features (GPS pace, cadence) rather than general wellness.
- Are price-sensitive and can wait for discounts or improved firmware/hardware iterations.
- Are concerned about early reports of reliability issues; waiting for longer user data may be wise.
Verdict: Is it Worth It?
Yes — the Oura Ring Gen 4 is worth it if you align with its strengths: recovery, wellness tracking, sleek design and premium materials. It stands out among smart rings for those priorities.
But it’s not a no-brainer for all: if you have a well-functioning Gen3, or if workout metrics are your priority, the value is less compelling. The price plus subscription means you should go in knowing what you’ll use.
In short: For wellness-first users, yes — it’s a strong pick. For everyone else — consider your usage and whether the upgrade justifies cost.
FAQs: People Also Ask about Oura Ring Gen 4
1. Does the Oura Ring Gen 4 require a subscription?
Yes — to access full features (historical data, readiness insights, advanced metrics) you need the Oura Membership plan.
2. How long does the battery last on Gen 4 in real use?
Oura claims up to ~8 days. Independent users report close to that though some report less depending on usage/config. (livescience.com)
3. Is the Gen 4 much more accurate than Gen 3?
It offers noticeable upgrades (more sensor pathways, improved SpO₂, better signal). Whether you feel the difference depends on your use. (wareable.com)
4. Can I use Gen 4 for detailed workout metrics (GPS, pace, etc.)?
Not really — while it does Automatic Activity Detection, it’s not a full-blown sports watch. For deep workout analytics a dedicated watch may be better.
5. What about durability and materials?
Gen 4 uses titanium and recessed sensors for a flatter design. Many users report good durability, but there are occasional reports of battery or build issues. (livescience.com)
Conclusion & Call to Action
If you’re committed to monitoring sleep, recovery and overall readiness, and you want a wearable you’ll forget you’re wearing, then the Oura Ring Gen 4 is definitely worth it. Just ensure you’re comfortable with the cost and subscription model.
👉 Ready to take the plunge? Visit the official Oura store and see current models, sizes and subscriptions. Measure your ring size carefully, choose your finish, and start tracking your wellness like a pro.