As the wearable technology market continues to evolve, smart rings are gaining popularity as a discreet and stylish alternative to traditional fitness trackers. With a growing number of options available, choosing the best smart ring for tracking sleep and health can be overwhelming. In a recent review, Victoria Song, a senior reporter at The Verge, put six smart rings to the test, highlighting the top picks and industry insights in this emerging gadget category.

According to Song, the Oura Ring 4 stands out as the best smart ring for most people, offering a combination of reliability, accuracy, and experience. With a Verge Score of 9, the Oura Ring 4 boasts a slimmer design, expanded auto workout detection, and better battery life. While it requires a subscription to access all features, Oura's dedication to research and scientific developments sets it apart from competitors.

However, for those who are opposed to subscriptions, alternative options are available. The Samsung Galaxy Ring, with a Verge Score of 7, offers excellent hardware, long battery life, and a slim, lightweight design. Although it's an Android-only device with some accuracy issues, it's a promising first-gen device with ecosystem-centric ideas. The Ultrahuman Ring Air, priced at $349, provides a fitness-focused experience without a subscription, offering "Power Plugs" as add-on features. Meanwhile, the RingConn Gen 2 Air, at $199, offers a more affordable option with AI features and basic health and sleep tracking.

The smart ring market is still in its early stages, with many experimental ideas and newcomer tech brands emerging. While these devices are primarily health trackers, they lack smart alarms and push notifications, making them best suited for casual athletes or wellness-minded individuals. Hardcore athletes may find smartwatches or fitness trackers more suitable, while weightlifters may encounter issues with scratching against equipment.

When choosing a smart ring, factors such as sizing, design, durability, charging, and battery life are crucial. Song's review highlights the importance of experiential testing and benchmarks, including daily wear, waterproofing, and comparison to a smartwatch and smart bed to gauge sleep and health tracking accuracy.

As the smart ring market continues to evolve, it's essential to consider the implications of this emerging technology. With more competitors entering the scene, the industry is expected to see further innovation and refinement. For now, the Oura Ring 4 remains the top pick, but alternatives like the Samsung Galaxy Ring, Ultrahuman Ring Air, and RingConn Gen 2 Air offer promising options for those seeking a stylish and discreet way to track their sleep and health.

Ultimately, the best smart ring for tracking sleep and health depends on individual needs and preferences. By understanding the current state of the market and the top picks available, consumers can make informed decisions and stay ahead of the curve in this rapidly evolving gadget category.