Oura Ring 5 Review: Still the Smart Ring to Beat
Setup remains straightforward, and pairing took just a few seconds. Oura has trimmed the size range: the Ring 5 comes in sizes 6 through 13
Setup remains straightforward, and pairing took just a few seconds. Oura has trimmed the size range: the Ring 5 comes in sizes 6 through 13, compared to the Ring 4’s 4 through 15. Existing Oura owners should still order the updated sizing kit before buying. Although I stuck with the same size as my Ring 4, the Ring 5 fit more snugly, and I could easily see some people needing to size up. Despite Oura’s hardware upgrades, I didn’t notice dramatic differences in the data itself. My overnight resting heart rate, heart rate variability, and activity tracking closely match what I was already seeing on the Ring 4.
That’s less of a criticism than it sounds, considering the Ring 4 was already among the smartest rings I’ve tested. That said, Oura attributes any accuracy improvements to LEDs that are four times more powerful, redesigned sensors that sit closer to your skin, and 12 independent signal pathways intended to improve readings across different finger shapes and skin tones. Battery life was also a modest improvement, averaging between six and nine days per charge. This slightly exceeds its predecessor’s five- to eight-day estimate. Oura also released a new portable Charging Case ($99), which stores enough power for roughly five full charges.
A physical button lets you check charging and pairing status, and it’s compatible with the new Locate feature, which lets you find both your ring and charging case in the Oura app. It’s a nice travel accessory, though not an essential purchase for most people. Smarter Insights The biggest changes are in the app, but earlier generations also benefit from the upgrades. Oura is increasingly positioning the Ring 5 as a proactive health platform powered by AI. Much of that strategy centers on Oura Advisor, the company’s large-language-model-powered assistant introduced last year, alongside new predictive health features that aim to tell you what’s happening in your body before you notice it yourself.
Oura also partnered with Counsel Health to expand Advisor beyond wellness coaching. Through the app, members can ask health questions, receive personalized guidance informed by their biometric data, and connect with licensed health care professionals without leaving the app.
The BriefWire