Smart rings have come a long way — flicking lights, tracking sleep, measuring recovery — all from a device you wear on your finger. With multiple generations from Oura and new entries like the Samsung Galaxy Ring, you might be wondering: which one should I buy?
In this comparison we’ll look at the Oura Ring Gen 3, its successor the Gen 4, and the Samsung Galaxy Ring. We’ll compare specs, compatibility, features, accuracy, cost and more — so you can decide which smart ring is right for you.
Side-by-Side Comparison: Gen 4 vs Gen 3 vs Galaxy Ring
Specs & Materials
- Oura Gen 4: Fully titanium external design, sizes 4-15, water resistance to 100 m/328 ft. (Oura Help)
- Oura Gen 3: Titanium exterior with epoxy interior, sizes 6-13. (Tom’s Guide)
- Samsung Galaxy Ring: Slimmer design — 7.0 mm wide, 2.6 mm thick and weight from ~2.3g depending on size. (Wareable)
Features & Sensor Upgrades
- Oura Gen 4 introduces their “Smart Sensing” platform with up to 18 signal pathways (vs ~8 in Gen 3) to improve accuracy in heart rate, SpO₂, temperature. (Tom’s Guide)
- Gen 3 still strong, proven, but fewer sensors / less recent hardware. (Gadget Flow)
- Samsung Galaxy Ring focuses on a sleek package for Android users primarily, though some reviewers point out it may sacrifice slightly in depth of analysis. (Garage Gym Reviews)
Battery Life & Performance
- Oura Gen 4: Up to ~8 days battery life claimed. (Wareable)
- Gen 3: Up to ~7 days battery life. (Wareable)
- Samsung Galaxy Ring: Also claims ~7 days, with combined charger case benefits for some users. (Cybernews)
Compatibility & Ecosystem
- Oura: Works with both iOS and Android.
- Samsung Galaxy Ring: Focused on Android ecosystem. (Garage Gym Reviews)
- Subscription model: Oura requires an active membership for full features; Samsung doesn’t require an additional monthly fee (in many cases) for core features. (Tech Advisor)
Price & Value
- Oura Gen 4: Starting around US $349 for base model. (Tech Advisor)
- Gen 3: Historically cheaper (depending on available retailers).
- Samsung Galaxy Ring: Pricing similar or slightly higher for some models; fewer finishes.
What Are the Real-World Differences?
Upgrade from Gen 3 → Gen 4
- Some users say the upgrade from Gen 3 to Gen 4 is incremental, not dramatic. (Reddit)
- If your Gen 3 is working well, you may not need Gen 4 unless you want the extra size range, slightly better sensors or premium finishes.
- One Reddit user said:
“Honestly: buy the gen 3 unless you need the new bigger or smaller sizes. There are no differences except Oura’s claims of better accuracy.” (Reddit)
Oura vs Samsung Galaxy Ring
- Design wise: Galaxy Ring is slimmer/lighter; Oura is bulkier but offers deeper health insights according to many reviews. (Wareable)
- If you are an iPhone user, Oura is the better choice (Samsung ring is Android-only).
- If you prioritize minimal size/weight and use Android, Samsung is compelling.
- Beware: there have been some reports about Samsung Galaxy Ring battery swelling issues (safety concerns). (Android Central)
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose Oura Ring Gen 4 if you:
- Want the latest hardware, best sensor platform (Gen 4)
- Use iOS or Android and want full ecosystem support
- Prioritize depth of health analytics, readiness, recovery, advanced data
- Don’t mind spending more and paying for membership (Oura subscription)
Choose Oura Ring Gen 3 if you:
- Want a strong smart ring but at lower cost
- Already use Oura’s ecosystem and are satisfied with your Gen 3 (no urgent need to upgrade)
- Want to avoid paying top price for marginal improvements
Choose Samsung Galaxy Ring if you:
- Use Android exclusively (Samsung ecosystem)
- Prefer a slimmer, lighter ring design
- Want fewer features or simpler analytics (or the core features are enough)
- Are comfortable with any potential trade-offs in sensor depth or future support
Current Pricing Snapshot
- Oura Ring Gen 4: Listed at approximately US $349 for Silver/Black, up to US $499 for Gold/Rose Gold. Cosmopolitan+1
- Oura Ring Gen 3: In Pakistan, one seller lists the Gen 3 Horizon Stealth Size 11 at PKR 134,999. Shophive Also globally it has seen deep discounts (refurbished/new) down to ~$100 in some auctions. eBay
- Samsung Galaxy Ring: Official US price is US $399.99. Samsung jp+1 In Pakistan the price is listed around PKR 100,899 for some variants. DiscountStore
Pros & Cons Summary
Oura Ring Gen 4
Pros: Latest sensors, full size range, strong ecosystem support.
Cons: Higher price, still bulkier than some competitors, subscription required.
Oura Ring Gen 3
Pros: Excellent mature product, lower cost, proven track record.
Cons: Slightly older hardware, fewer size options, less premium feel.
Samsung Galaxy Ring
Pros: Slim/compact design, Android-focused, strong value in many cases.
Cons: Android only, fewer finishes, less depth in analytics (according to some), recent safety concern reports.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use Oura Gen 4 without paying the subscription?
You can use basic features, but full insights, historical data and advanced metrics require the Oura Membership.
Q2: Is the Samsung Galaxy Ring compatible with iPhone?
No — it is primarily designed for Android devices. (Garage Gym Reviews)
Q3: If I have the Oura Gen 3, is it worth upgrading to Gen 4?
Only if you value the size range, marginal sensor improvements or new finishes. For many users, Gen 3 remains excellent.
Q4: Which ring tracks health most accurately?
Reviewers tend to favour Oura (especially Gen 4) for depth of health insights. (Android Central)
Q5: Are there safety concerns about any of these rings?
Yes — some users reported battery swelling with Galaxy Ring. While not widespread, it’s something to keep in mind. (Android Central)
Conclusion
If you’re looking for the best overall smart ring, the Oura Ring Gen 4 currently leads thanks to its upgraded sensors, materials and ecosystem support. If you want value, the Oura Gen 3 remains a very strong contender. If design and Android-compatibility are your top priorities, the Samsung Galaxy Ring is worth a look — but weigh trade-offs in analytics and platform support.Want to compare pricing, current deals and sizing kits? I can pull up a live comparison of Gen 3 vs Gen 4 vs Galaxy Ring (with best offers today) if you like!