The best fitness trackers of 2023: Expert tested

Don't like the look of a smartwatch, but want wellness insights? The 3rd-generation Oura Ring tracks exercise, sleep, and more while taking up a fraction of the real estate. Even though it's a bit thick, the high-quality titanium ring with PVD coating looks and feels more like an everyday accessory than a fitness tracker. 

ZDNET contributor Matt Miller even attested that despite the “raised sensor sections inside the ring, you cannot feel them pressing into the skin on your finger.” 

Review: Oura Ring 3: Unobtrusive 24/7 health tracking 

The ring is even subtle and sleek enough to wear at night. In fact, you're supposed to. Equipped with Sp02 sensors, the Oura Ring tracks heart rate variability (HRV) along with overall blood saturation levels during the night. 

The Oura ring brings a holistic health approach, assigning a “score” as insight into your recovery level and overall readiness. This data is then compiled to give users personalized recommendations on when to exercise or rest. 

“I think of the Oura as what happens overnight. It's more of a big level view of myself and my wellness, taking a step out and considering the consequences of what you've been doing for the past few weeks/days,” said Dr. Jason Fanning, an assistant professor at Wake Forest University who researches the use of commercial and research-grade activity monitors. 

As opposed to most smartwatches that provide immediate feedback, Oura's HRV metrics give a closer look at general patterns. According to Dr. Fanning, it provides accurate bodily insight outside of just calories burned: “The Oura is great if I'm thinking about what I'm doing at a global level; if I'm training too hard or too little, getting sick, if I've had too much alcohol — all those things show up and give an idea on how I'll be feeling.”

The Oura Ring also features bedtime guidance, period prediction, and an “automatic nap” prompt. The only downside? In addition to the $299 price tag and custom fitting process, you'll need a membership fee to access the full suite of features. Non-paying members only have access to sleep, readiness, and activity.