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Smart Ring vs Smartwatch: Find the best wearable tech for you

Smart Ring vs Smartwatch: Which is best for me?

Whether you’re a fitness buff, a tech enthusiast, or simply looking for a convenient way to stay connected, choosing between the latest Galaxy Ring or smartwatch is no mean feat1. That’s why we’re here to guide you through the decision-making process - exploring the key features and benefits of both - so you can find the wearable tech that perfectly matches your lifestyle.

1. Compatible smartphone required. Requires Android 11 or above and the latest version of the Samsung Health app.

Galaxy Ring gives personalised, accurate, Galaxy AI-powered health experiences, wrapped up in a discreet, ultra-light package. It’s powerful, yet so subtle. This smart ring is ideal for health-conscious people who prefer the simpler life and to stay focused. Galaxy Ring gives personalised, accurate, Galaxy AI-powered health experiences, wrapped up in a discreet, ultra-light package. It’s powerful, yet so subtle. This smart ring is ideal for health-conscious people who prefer the simpler life and to stay focused.

What is a smart ring and what can it do?

The Samsung smart ring is a compact, wearable electronic device. It’s designed to fit comfortably on your finger and is equipped with various sensors to monitor health metrics such as heart rate, sleep patterns, and menstrual cycles. The Galaxy Rings can also track your daily activities, including steps taken and calories burned, similar to a fitness tracker or Galaxy smartwatch. It syncs with the Samsung Health app on your smartphone1, allowing you to view and analyse the information collected.

The Galaxy Ring utilises the AI technology to provide personalised insights and recommendations based on the data it collects. For example, you can discover how ready you are to tackle the day ahead with your Energy Score2. Analysing your sleep, heart rate, and previous activity, it will help you to decide if it’s time to lace up or rest up. And if you wake up with low motivation, innovative Wellness Tips2 give you motivational messages and training advice based on your activity with your very own personal coach2. With its discreet design and multi-day battery life3, the Galaxy Ring offers an unobtrusive way to stay connected to your health and wellness goals1.

Interested to find out more about Samsung’s first-ever smart ring? Check out our ‘Introducing the Galaxy Ring’ guide which delves into everything you need to know about our newest wearable tech.

  • 1. Compatible smartphone required. Requires Android 11 or above and the latest version of the Samsung Health app.
  • 2. Intended for general wellness and fitness purposes only. Requires smartphone operating on Android 11 or above and the latest version of the Samsung Health app. Samsung account login and Galaxy smartphone is required for certain AI features.
  • 3. Actual battery life varies depending on usage patterns and other factors. Battery life based on testing conducted with the size 12,13 Galaxy Ring. Battery life of the size 12,13 Galaxy Ring lasts up to 7 days on a single charge. Battery life varies by ring size.
  • 1. Compatible smartphone required. Requires Android 11 or above and the latest version of the Samsung Health app.
  • 2. Intended for general wellness and fitness purposes only. Requires smartphone operating on Android 11 or above and the latest version of the Samsung Health app. Samsung account login and Galaxy smartphone is required for certain AI features.
  • 3. Actual battery life varies depending on usage patterns and other factors. Battery life based on testing conducted with the size 12,13 Galaxy Ring. Battery life of the size 12,13 Galaxy Ring lasts up to 7 days on a single charge. Battery life varies by ring size.

What is a smartwatch and what can it do?

A smartwatch is also a wearable device that combines the functionality of a traditional watch with the advanced features of a smartphone. The latest Galaxy watches; the Galaxy Watch7 and Galaxy Watch Ultra, are at the forefront of this technology, offering a comprehensive range of health and fitness tracking capabilities. They are equipped with sensors that monitor vital signs like heart rate and blood pressure4, as well as sleep patterns and activity levels. They also provide features like mobile payments6, phone notifications, and access to apps, making them ideal for both personal health management and daily convenience.

The Galaxy Watch7 and Galaxy Watch Ultra are Samsung’s cutting-edge smartwatches with AI technology that keep on top of everyday activities to best prepare you for the day ahead. The Galaxy Energy Score compiles your key health data into one, easy to understand number. Galaxy AI also offers tailored, habit-changing suggestions in the form of Wellness Tips1 to help drive you towards your wellness goals. You can even challenge your previous walk or run times with Race2. And of course, all of your favourites are on board too, including Body Composition3, ECG, Blood Pressure4 and women’s health tracking5.

Explore our ‘Galaxy Watch7 vs Galaxy Watch Ultra’ guide to find out more about Samsung’s epic 2024 smartwatches.

  • 1. Intended for general wellness and fitness purposes only. Requires smartphone operating on Android 11 or above with Google Mobile Services and the latest version of the Samsung Health app. Samsung account login and Galaxy smartphone are required for certain AI features.
  • 2. Race is available for the outdoor running and outdoor cycling only. For comparative measurements, it is required to run on the same path as the pre-generated path.
  • 3. Do not measure your body composition if you are pregnant, have an implanted pacemaker or other implanted medical devices.
  • 4. Only to be used by 22 years+. For accurate BP readings, monthly calibration required by GP or BP monitor & arm cuff. Requires a Galaxy smartphone running Android 8.0 or above.
  • 5. Not intended for contraception. Intended for users 18 years+. Users should not interpret or take clinical action based on the predictions made without consultation of a qualified healthcare professional.
  • 6. Galaxy smartphone required.
  • 1. Intended for general wellness and fitness purposes only. Requires smartphone operating on Android 11 or above with Google Mobile Services and the latest version of the Samsung Health app. Samsung account login and Galaxy smartphone are required for certain AI features.
  • 2. Race is available for the outdoor running and outdoor cycling only. For comparative measurements, it is required to run on the same path as the pre-generated path.
  • 3. Do not measure your body composition if you are pregnant, have an implanted pacemaker or other implanted medical devices.
  • 4. Only to be used by 22 years+. For accurate BP readings, monthly calibration required by GP or BP monitor & arm cuff. Requires a Galaxy smartphone running Android 8.0 or above.
  • 5. Not intended for contraception. Intended for users 18 years+. Users should not interpret or take clinical action based on the predictions made without consultation of a qualified healthcare professional.
  • 6. Galaxy smartphone required.

Smart ring vs smartwatch: what are the key differences?

Choosing between a smartwatch or a smart ring comes down to personal preference and what you are looking for from your wearable tech. Both devices offer health and fitness tracking features, but they differ in their design and functionality. To help you decide we’ve listed some of the key differences below:

Design: The Galaxy Ring is small and worn on a finger, while Galaxy smartwatches are larger and worn on the wrist. Smart rings are designed to be discreet and blend in with jewellery, whereas a Samsung smartwatch matches your own style with more customisations available.

Comfort: Both devices are designed to be comfortable to wear during the day, but the Galaxy Ring can be more comfortable for sleeping, especially if you don’t like wearing a watch to bed.

Functionality: Smartwatches offer a broader range of features, including GPS tracking, music streaming, mobile payment options, voice assistants, and greater app integration.

Sensors: Galaxy smartwatches tend to have more advanced sensors compared to smart rings including, blood pressure1, heart rate, sleep, and body composition sensors.

Battery Life: Smart rings often have better battery life because of their smaller size and less power consumption2.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive set of features and don’t mind wearing something on your wrist, a Samsung smartwatch is a great choice. However, if you’re looking for a subtle accessory that tracks essential health metrics without being intrusive, the Galaxy Ring is a must.

  • 1. Only to be used by 22 years+. For accurate BP readings, monthly calibration required by GP or BP monitor & arm cuff. Requires a Galaxy smartphone running Android 8.0 or above.
  • 2. Actual battery life varies depending on usage patterns and other factors. Galaxy Ring battery life based on testing conducted with the size 12,13 Galaxy Ring. Battery life of the size 12,13 Galaxy Ring lasts up to 7 days on a single charge. Battery life varies by ring size.

Do the Galaxy Ring and Galaxy Watch smartwatch have the same features?

Our comprehensive table below highlights the key specs of Samsung’s latest wearable tech. From the adventure-ready Galaxy Watch Ultra, to the innovative Galaxy Ring each is designed to enhance your daily life with smart features and connectivity.

  • Display

  • Material

  • Dimension

  • Weight

  • Durability (1) Water resistance rating of 10 minutes at 100 meters under the ISO standard 22810. Rated IP68 for dust and water resistance, 1.5 meters in fresh water for up to 30 minutes. It is not suitable for diving or high-pressure water activities.

  • Battery (2) Battery life is based on results from internal lab tests for typical usage pattern scenarios conducted by Samsung. Actual battery life may vary depending on different usage patterns, device model or the battery manufacturer.

  • Device Compatibility

  • Sensors

  • Connectivity

  • Memory

  • Operating System

  • -
  • Titanium
  • 7.0 x 2.6mm (based on size 6)
  • 2.4g (based on size 6)
  • 10ATM + IP68
  • 18-23.5mAh (typical)
  • Smartphones running Android 11 or above
  • Accel, Temperature, PPG
  • BT 5.4
  • -
  • -
  • 1.47” (480x480), 327PPI
    1.31" (432x432), 330PPI 2,000nits
  • Armour Aluminium
  • 44.4 x 44.4 x 9.7t
    40.4 x 40.4 x 9.7t
  • (40mm) 28.9g
    (44mm) 33.8g
  • 5ATM/ IP68/ MIL-STD-810H
  • 300mAh / 425mAh (typical) + WPC Faster Wireless Charging
  • Compatible with smartphones running Android 11 or above with Google Mobile Services (GMS) and RAM 1.5GB or above
  • Accel (32G), Gyro, Baro, Ambient Light, Compass, Temperature
  • BT 5.3/ WiFi 2.4GHz & 5GHz/ NFC/ LTE/ Dual GPS (L1+L5)
  • RAM 2.0GB + 32GB (Storage)
  • Wear OS Powered by Samsung (One UI Watch 6)
  • 1.47” (480x480), 327PPI 3,000nits (OPR100%, TBD)
  • Titanium (Grade 4)
  • 47.4 x 47.4 x 12.1t (15.8t)
  • 94g
  • 10ATM + IP68 + MIL-STD 810H
  • 590mAh (typical) + WPC Faster Wireless Charging
  • Compatible with smartphones running Android 11 or above with Google Mobile Services (GMS) and RAM 1.5GB or above
  • Accel (32G), Gyro, Baro, Ambient Light, Compass, Temperature
  • BT 5.3/ WiFi 2.4GHz & 5GHz/ NFC/ LTE/ Dual GPS (L1+L5)
  • RAM 2.0GB + 32GB (Storage)
  • Wear OS Powered by Samsung (One UI Watch 6)

Smart ring vs smartwatch: Which is best for fitness & health tracking?

When it comes to health and fitness tracking, both smart rings and smartwatches have their advantages. For example, the Galaxy Ring has advanced health and fitness sensors that can track your activity, sleep and heart rate just like a smartwatch does. You’ll also find premium fitness features such as Auto Workout Detection, which is always on the lookout for those daily steps to make sure all your activity is logged and sent directly to the Samsung Health app on your Galaxy smartphone. Wellness Tips4 provides motivational messages and training tips based on your activity levels, and Energy Score offers tailored insights when to push it to the limit or when it’s time to put your feet up. It’s also easy to wear all day without being obtrusive, in fact it’s just like having another piece of jewellery. Unlike a smartwatch, there’s no display so you will need to check your Samsung smartphone to access your health metrics, and it does not offer the same compatibility with fitness apps as a Galaxy watch.

In comparison, Samsung smartwatches, like the new Galaxy Watch7, offer a comprehensive set of wellness features including, blood pressure monitoring1, heart health tracking1, body composition analysis2, menstrual cycle predictions3 and coaching4. They can accurately track over 90 different activities ensuring all your health and fitness goals are fully supported. The adventure-ready Galaxy Watch Ultra even has a customisable Quick Button which provides a quick and precise way of logging lap times, ending workouts or pausing timers. Their integration within the Samsung Galaxy Ecosystem also means you can enjoy seamless connectivity and a unified approach to managing your health. If you’re looking for the most advanced and inclusive fitness and health monitoring features, we recommend a Samsung smartwatch.

  • 1. Only to be used by 22 years+. For accurate BP readings, monthly calibration required by GP or BP monitor & arm cuff. Requires a Galaxy smartphone running Android 8.0 or above.
  • 2. Do not measure your body composition if you are pregnant, have an implanted pacemaker or other implanted medical device.
  • 3. Not intended for contraception. Intended for users 18 years+. Users should not interpret or take clinical action based on the predictions made without consultation of a qualified healthcare professional.
  • 4. Intended for general wellness and fitness purposes only. Requires smartphone operating on Android 11 or above with Google Mobile Services and the latest version of the Samsung Health app. Samsung account login and Galaxy smartphone are required for certain AI features.
  • 1. Only to be used by 22 years+. For accurate BP readings, monthly calibration required by GP or BP monitor & arm cuff. Requires a Galaxy smartphone running Android 8.0 or above.
  • 2. Do not measure your body composition if you are pregnant, have an implanted pacemaker or other implanted medical device.
  • 3. Not intended for contraception. Intended for users 18 years+. Users should not interpret or take clinical action based on the predictions made without consultation of a qualified healthcare professional.
  • 4. Intended for general wellness and fitness purposes only. Requires smartphone operating on Android 11 or above with Google Mobile Services and the latest version of the Samsung Health app. Samsung account login and Galaxy smartphone are required for certain AI features.

Smart ring vs smartwatch: Which is best for sleep tracking?

The Galaxy Ring, with its ability to last up to 7 days on a single charge, makes it a convenient and unobtrusive way to monitor your sleep patterns. It’s designed to record your sleep quality across a range of metrics including heart rate and skin temperature. Sleep Coaching1 then analyses your overnight habits to build an accurate picture of your sleep health, giving you comprehensive insights into your rest patterns. There’s even a handy Double Pinch feature which lets you switch off your phone’s alarm when it’s out of reach, so you can get a few more moments of rest without the hassle of getting up.

The latest Galaxy smartwatches harness the power of AI to give you personalised Wellness Tips1 and an Energy Score1 based on your activity levels and quality of sleep. The advanced sensors and algorithms analyse a range of metrics such as heart rate, respiratory rate, and movement to provide you with detailed insights into your sleep quality ensuring that you have a clear understanding of your sleep patterns and how they affect your overall health. With the Galaxy smartwatch, you can set sleep goals and track your progress over time, receiving actionable advice to improve your rest.

1. Intended for general wellness and fitness purposes only. Requires smartphone operating on Android 11 or above and the latest version of the Samsung Health app. Samsung account login and Galaxy smartphone is required for certain AI features.

1. Intended for general wellness and fitness purposes only. Requires smartphone operating on Android 11 or above and the latest version of the Samsung Health app. Samsung account login and Galaxy smartphone is required for certain AI features.

Smart ring vs smartwatch: Which has the best battery life?

The Galaxy Ring and the latest Galaxy smartwatches have impressive battery life. For instance, the Galaxy Watch Ultra has a super-powerful 590mAh battery which can last up to 48 hours in Exercise Power Saving mode. And with Faster Wireless Charging it’s quicker than ever to keep your wearable tech powered throughout the day. But when it comes to the best? The Galaxy Ring can last up to a whopping 7 days on a single charge1 making it the ultimate choice if you’re seeking uninterrupted connectivity. With such an impressive battery life you can stay connected while enjoying the freedom of an active lifestyle.

1. Battery life is based on results from internal lab tests for typical usage pattern scenarios conducted by Samsung. Actual battery life may vary depending on different usage patterns, device model or the battery manufacturer.

There are three scenarios. First scenario, a person is tying their hair whislt wearing a Galaxy Ring. Second scenario, another person is typing on their Galaxy Book keyboard with their finger that is wearing the Galaxy Ring. Third scenario shows a handshake involving one hand wearing the Galaxy Ring. There are three scenarios. First scenario, a person is tying their hair whislt wearing a Galaxy Ring. Second scenario, another person is typing on their Galaxy Book keyboard with their finger that is wearing the Galaxy Ring. Third scenario shows a handshake involving one hand wearing the Galaxy Ring.

1. Battery life is based on results from internal lab tests for typical usage pattern scenarios conducted by Samsung. Actual battery life may vary depending on different usage patterns, device model or the battery manufacturer.

How to choose the best wearable tech for you

Samsung’s wearable tech is meticulously designed to fit seamlessly into your lifestyle. Whether you opt for the discreet elegance of the Galaxy Ring or the comprehensive functionality of a Galaxy watch, each is designed to provide a personalised health and fitness experience. And, at Samsung UK you’ll find everything you need to style it your way too. From rugged sports bands to contemporary stainless steel options, you have the perfect match for any occasion. And when it comes to measuring up for the smart ring, we have the Galaxy Ring Sizing Kit ready and waiting. All that’s left to do is to embrace the technology that best suits your life and enjoy the benefits of staying connected in style.

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