From tracking physical activities to relaying notifications from your phone, smartwatches can become an indispensable part of your life, but they aren't always convenient. Smart rings are a more convenient option with similar features. If you're looking for a new wearable and are wondering between a smartwatch and a smart ring, this guide will outline the differences between the two and give advice on which one to buy.
Comfort and convenience
Wearing a smartwatch is mostly comfortable, especially if you are used to wearing a watch. Most modern smartwatches are quite thin and light, so they don't feel bulky, unless you choose an Apple Watch Ultra or Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra.

It should be noted that smartwatches – although comfortable to wear during the day – can cause discomfort while sleeping. While you can take it off before bed, that means you won't have sleep tracking – a very important feature for many people.
Smart rings are extremely lightweight and minimalist, just like any other ring. They are a bit thicker than regular wedding rings, mainly to accommodate all the electronics and batteries. However, you will get used to the extra thickness after a day or two.

Due to its minimalist design, the smart ring does not affect your sleeping position. You don't feel uncomfortable when going to sleep, unlike smart watches. In fact, after a few days of wearing the smart ring, I completely forgot I was wearing it. That's how seamlessly it integrates into your life.
Features and accuracy
Both smartwatches and smart rings are essentially health tracking devices, so tracking metrics is important.

In terms of basic parameters, such as steps taken, calories burned and distance traveled, both smart rings and smart watches are similar. Smart rings are even capable of measuring heart rate and SpO2 levels, just like smart watches. There's also a sleep tracking function, completing the package.

Even for outdoor walking workouts, there's not much to differentiate these two devices. However, with more complex situations and sports, smart rings can be difficult. The Apple Watch can accurately track activity while playing badminton, but the ring cannot. Furthermore, most smartwatches have built-in GPS to track runs, while smart rings don't have that functionality due to their smaller size.

The accompanying apps for both the smartwatch and smart ring are similar in terms of data and functionality. You can get a good overview of your statistics, no matter what device you're using.
What else is missing?
In addition to features like GPS and a few workout modes mentioned above, the most obvious downside of the smart ring is the screen. Unlike smart watches that display the time and other relevant information, like weather, pending notifications, etc., smart rings perform no other function other than tracking metrics. health.

Speaking of notifications, that's the most important feature you'll miss. In fact, it's the first thing you'll notice when you switch completely to a smart ring, if you rely heavily on your smartwatch for all your call and text notifications throughout the day.
This actually makes many people wonder if brands could add a small haptic motor inside these rings to gently nudge your finger when you receive a notification.

Since there is obviously no display, the extra features that smartwatches have, like using apps, controlling music, answering calls, etc., are missing. A smart ring would be a poor choice if these functions are important to you.
Many people often play games on their smartwatches while in a boring meeting. They also use the onboard display to frame group photos and even use the watch as a remote shutter to take photos. All these features are not available with smart rings.
Battery life and charging
This is an aspect where the advantage is clearly in favor of smart rings. Despite its small form factor, the RIngconn smart ring can last about a week on a single charge. When the battery runs out, just leave it in the charging case for two hours and you can use it for another week.

On the other hand, the Apple Watch can last about 36 hours on a single charge. In short, you have to charge it every day. While that's not a big deal, this could be a negative for some people. Some smartwatches with limited functionality have better battery life, so this could also be an option.
Should I buy a smart watch or a smart ring?
First, let's address the fact that the core functionality both utilities provide is more or less the same. If your goal is to monitor your health and want a solution that isn't obtrusive, a smart ring is a great gadget.

A smart ring is much more minimalist and comfortable because it doesn't take up as much space on your arm as a smart watch. On the other hand, smartwatches definitely offer more functionality. If you play a lot of sports and want detailed statistics about them, then a smartwatch is clearly the way to go.
The smartwatch can also make calls, record your runs via built-in GPS, and is a great assistant to your smartphone, performing small tasks, like setting reminders and creating lists. to-do book. If you're looking for any of these functions, a smart ring won't be enough for you.

It is important to list your priorities and requirements. If you're just focused on tracking your sleep, heart rate, and gym workouts, and don't play sports or care about notifications, then a smart ring will be suitable.