Ranking of the best smart smart rings for 2020

Technologies do not stand still, and lately there are more and more of them. Few users know what a smart ring is and walk around the shelves in stores with this product. This is done undeservedly, since this gadget greatly simplifies life in situations where it is impossible or inconvenient to use a smartphone or bank card, a fitness tracker.

This small device is made in the form of a classic ring, it differs from it only in its wide base. Such gadgets have a wide range of applications and can be used as an intercom key, a means of contactless payment, monitoring of the user's physical activity, and can perform other functions. There is a digital card inside the cavity, which ensures the implementation of the inherent functions and maintains communication with the smartphone. The device can work in tandem with a phone, as well as perform assigned tasks autonomously.

A clear advantage of the gadget in question, in comparison with others, is the ease of wearing. Since ancient times, people have worn rings on their fingers as an element of jewelry, and appreciated their ergonomics: a smart ring is difficult to lose, it does not take up much space and does not interfere with finger movement.

Large manufacturers of smart devices are not yet very active in the development and marketing of smart rings. This is due to the fact that gadgets of this type still have a number of disadvantages, due to which consumers are in no hurry to buy them:

• Thickness - due to the fact that the electronic filling needs to be placed inside the product, they have a wide protrusion and cause a feeling of tightness on the finger. The situation becomes more complicated when a screen is installed in the gadget - a large space is required to ensure its correct functioning.
• Shortcomings. Since eminent manufacturers practically do not pay attention to this area, devices are manufactured by small companies that strive to quickly release a product into circulation, without worrying about quality and stable work, since the image for these companies does not play any role.
• Unattractive appearance. As much as the manufacturers seek to decorate the smart ring, most of them look like cheap plastic jewelry, which is another major obstacle for buyers.
• Difficulty finding the right size. Since the device is small, it is difficult to provide for an adjustment depending on the thickness of the finger. Due to the fact that this parameter can vary widely, the manufacturer has to produce a large number of sizes of wearable electronics, which is why they incur additional manufacturing costs.

Functionality of smart rings

Each manufacturer strives to make the product unique, to lay down special functions in it. Depending on what the device is intended for, the following types of smart rings are distinguished:

• Means of payment (NFC-ring). The first copies with this function began to be produced back in 2013. A payment chip is embedded inside the product, similar to that used in plastic cards. The gadget allows you to pay for your purchase anywhere where PayPass is used. To accomplish this task, you just need to attach the device to the payment terminal. The device is configured and controlled using a special program (application) that is installed on the smartphone. Many Russian banks provide customers with the opportunity to use payment rings, among them Tinkoff, Sberbank, Alfa Bank, VTB, etc.
• Activity tracking tool - such gadgets have built-in standard sensors (gyroscope, accelerometer, etc.) that allow you to monitor the user's sleep, physical activity (number of steps taken, calories burned, pulse and heart rate). Some models also have a built-in module that allows you to receive notifications about calls and messages coming to your phone. Such rings do not have the ability to transmit signals to the phone, however, they allow the owner to hear the call in a noisy room, or when the phone is silent mode.
• A device from which you can make and receive calls, send messages and receive them. It should be noted that the functionality of such devices has not yet been finalized, and their technical characteristics do not allow performing the assigned tasks without interruption. Among the shortcomings of such models, we can note how much one copy costs (for the price, many of them are comparable to a good smartphone).
• The ability to control household appliances in a smart home, open an intercom, store passwords, etc.

How smart rings work

As previously mentioned, inside the product is a capsule that houses a chip and electronic brains. Using a Bluetooth connection, communication is carried out with a smartphone, as well as payment terminals. The connection range can be up to 100 meters in open areas. Information transfer is carried out using a special module. Gadgets can work autonomously, however, apart from making payments, almost no actions can be performed without the participation of a smartphone.

In order for the device to be operated without the help of a smartphone, a screen is installed in some of them. However, due to its small size, control with the help of the screen is inconvenient, the information on it is difficult to read, and the device itself becomes much wider than similar mechanisms without a screen.

New to smart rings is the use of gestures. This function is convenient when controlling household appliances, telephone (for example, you can drop the call, or turn off the alarm with one movement of your hand). With this function, you can turn on and off the light in the room, turn over the pages of an e-book, rewind films and presentations, etc.

Since most smart rings work in conjunction with a phone through an application, let's decide what characteristics a smartphone should have for the best interaction with a small “brother”. The best pair for a smart ring would be an Android phone equipped with an NFC module. According to buyers, with phones made in China, as well as Iphone, the smart ring may not work correctly.

How to choose the right size and where to buy

Similar to jewelry, smart rings are sized according to the inner circumference of the ring. Most models range in size from 7 (54mm) to 10 (62.8mm).

Like other electronic devices, rings can be bought in electronics stores, online stores, and banks. The most inexpensive devices can be ordered by mail from AliExpress.It should be noted that no one is responsible for the quality and reliability of the device. Of the advantages of such a purchase, one can single out a wide variety of modifications and an inexpensive price.

A good option would be to buy a payment gadget directly from the bank. In this case, the buyer receives several bonuses at once - the certainty that the purchased product is not a fake, an official guarantee, the opportunity to save money (some institutions offer gadgets as part of promotions at a reduced price, or even free of charge). The staff will also help you set up your device and tell you how to use it.

It is not recommended to buy a device in an online store without a live preview. There is a possibility not only to make a mistake with the size, but also to understand that the purchased product is not convenient, or does not suit a person in other parameters.

Rating of quality smart rings

Since a small number of manufacturers are engaged in the production of such electronics, many buyers face a difficult task - to find out what smart devices are, which device is better and where to buy it. In order to simplify your choice, we will conduct a review of the best gadgets of this type, based on advice and feedback from real buyers. For the convenience of choosing, we will divide the models into categories: budget, esoteric, payment, premium.

Budget models

NFC Smart Ring

The model in question is the most popular on the AliExpress platform. This is due, first of all, to the low cost of the product. On the site you can find a large number of different design options, even without specifying a specific brand. They are united by the following features: the product is made of stainless steel, it can be produced in various colors, there is a slight water resistance, does not require charging.

The product comes in a variety of sizes - with an inside diameter of 6 "to 13". The connection with the phone is made via the NFC function. The device does not have its own application, the manufacturer recommends downloading any universal one designed to work with the NFC module.

The main functions performed by the device are unlocking the screen, quickly launching the application, sending and reading information, using it as a virtual business card. The average price of a gadget from China is 200 rubles.

• the best price;
• does not require charging;
• suitable for any smartphone with an NFC module;
• there is water resistance.

• limited functionality;
• the seller does not provide any guarantees.

RFID RING

The material of manufacture of the model in question is ceramic, due to which it fits comfortably on the finger. It costs a little more than the previous modification, however, according to buyers, there is something to overpay for. The device is available in two versions - 125 kHz and 13.56 MHz. The first modification allows to carry out operations without direct contact with the reading element, the second must be removed from the finger and applied closely.

The device can be used to unlock the smartphone screen, open electronic locks, as a means of payment (according to customer reviews, this function may not work well with some terminals).

A dedicated replicator is required to program the product and can be ordered with the smart ring. Buyers note the good performance of the device, attractive design and low price (800 rubles).

• good functionality;
• low price for a device of this level;
• attractive appearance.

• does not work with all payment terminals;
• no native app;
• the 13.56 MHz modification requires direct contact to operate.

Esoteric model

Jackom r3

Another representative of Chinese smart rings. The product is perfect as a gift.This is due not only to its low cost, but also to its attractive appearance, beautiful packaging made of thick cardboard, and also, as the manufacturer claims, esoteric abilities. On the inside, germanium and a volcanic magnet are embedded in the model. The product itself is made of titanium alloy, tungsten and ceramic sputtered. The strength of the gadget is ensured by the hardening of the alloy at high temperatures.

For lovers of esotericism, the composition of the "energy" materials will be interesting. As already mentioned, several rocks are embedded inside the disc, one of which is the “stone of energy”, which is responsible for a positive effect on human health and biofield. The main objects to which the impact is directed are the circulatory system, as well as metabolic processes. According to the manufacturer, the stones embedded in the smart ring can clean the surrounding air from harmful contaminants and reduce the negative impact of electromagnetic fields.

A passive RFID board is responsible for communication with NFC devices. The gadget can be programmed as a key to an electronic lock, intercom, parking entrance. It is possible to use the device as a means of payment, however, this function is triggered every other time due to weak software and short response range.

Another cool feature is the creation of an electronic business card. In this case, when the ring touches the smartphone of any person, your electronic contact with all the necessary information is transmitted to him. There are three notches inside the disc. Externally, the device is made in unisex style, making it suitable for users of any gender.

A convenient function will also be the use of the device as a storage device. So, it can store passwords from sites and applications, e-mail. The rewriting possibilities are practically unlimited - up to 1 million times.

Users often use the smart ring as an unlocker for smartphones, tablets. It is possible to use the device as an element that launches any program (camera, notebook on the phone, etc.).

Buyers note good water permeability, so you can do housework, wash your hands without fear of damaging the electronics.

The buyer is offered a choice of three colors - white outside and silver inside, black outside and silver inside, white outside and gold inside. Some sellers can find rare color options - monochrome black or white on all sides. The device does not use a battery, so the buyer should not worry about the constant charging of the gadget. This is ensured by a special self-charging system - the device absorbs electromagnetic waves, produces electricity from them and uses it for its work. The product is available in 6 sizes, from 54 to 70 mm. The average price is 1,100 rubles.

• light weight and compact size;
• esoteric properties;
• does not require charging, fully autonomous work;
• profitable price;
• it is possible to carry out payment transactions;
• versatile design, several colors to choose from.

• the connection with the phone is made automatically, which makes it difficult to work with some applications;
• according to many buyers, the payment functionality of the product is too limited, the smart ring practically does not work on most terminals.

Payment models

Pay ring

This ring was created jointly with the Joint Stock Company “Rosselkhozbank”. Interaction with the terminal is organized by contactless payment. The product is on sale in the Troika online store. The product is activated during a personal visit to a bank branch, where specialists offer a choice of three tariff plans for connection: "Individual", "Personal", or linking to a personal current account.

The payment instruments are made of ceramics, they are offered in various colors (black, white, gray), they can be smooth and perforated. The price for all modifications is the same and equals 4 500 rubles. According to the description provided on the manufacturer's website, it is possible to make rings from metals, including precious ones, according to individual sizes and taking into account other customer wishes. Despite the fact that this is a Russian-made device, it is not inferior in its characteristics to foreign counterparts. In order not to make mistakes when choosing the size, we recommend choosing a specific model in the manufacturer's office or in the bank office.

The company also offers products with the Troika transport attachment. Such decoration makes it possible to pay for travel in the Moscow metro, as well as in ground transport. The product is offered in three colors - black, white, pink and three sizes (17,19,21). The jewelry can be ordered online in the online store, or bought in the gift shops of the subway.

The popularity of models of this type is due to the ease of replenishing the account (with the help of a subway cashier, through bank terminals, electronics stores "Svyaznoy", "Euroset", using the mobile application "Moscow Metro").

The manufacturer's website has detailed instructions on how the device works. To pay for the fare, you need to bring the gadget to the payment terminal in such a way that the plane of the disk is parallel to the surface of the terminal, and hold your hand for a few seconds, after which the funds will be debited automatically. According to the manufacturer's recommendations, you should not wear a payment ring and other metal jewelry on one hand, as this can lead to incorrect operation.

When wearing jewelry, you do not have to worry about getting it wet, as it is sealed and has good water resistance. Contact of the device with aggressive powders and liquids is not allowed, this can lead to breakage. Also, do not leave the product near a source of strong electromagnetic waves. The manufacturer promises a 6 month warranty for the product.

• high availability (can be ordered via the Internet, bought at a bank, from a metro cashier);
• one of the most popular models of rings, especially among young people, on specialized forums you can find guides for solving most of the problems that arise with the device;
• high-quality materials that provide resistance to mechanical stress;
• it is possible to order an individual version of precious metals, in accordance with the preferences of the client;
• low price for electronics of this level.

• a small selection of colors.

Visa Payment Ring

Visa is trying to keep its finger on the pulse of new technologies, and therefore in 2016 developed its own product - Visa Payment Ring. Like the previous model, the device is tied to the client's current account, from which funds will be debited. The manufacturer assures that the product will withstand immersion in water to a depth of 50 meters. A feature of the model is the absence of a battery, so that the user does not have to think about recharging the device at the most inopportune moment.

An NFC sensor is built inside the ring, through which payment is made by analogy with contactless payment cards. The electronics are controlled by the Gemalto chip, which, according to the manufacturer's assurances, is completely protected from unauthorized withdrawal of funds.

The company is actively promoting its product, for example, at the Olympic competitions in 2016 and the World Cup in Russia, many athletes were provided with such rings for free use.

The user is authorized using a special electronic element - a token, which contains a certain set of electronic keys. The product is made of ceramics, treated in a special way to increase resistance to mechanical stress.The customer can choose from 20 women's and men's rings of various sizes.

• high-quality materials of manufacture;
• autonomous work;
• security of user data due to the use of a small working radius;
• fast connection, no failures;
• stylish design.

• is not available for sale, you can buy only at the bank.

Premium fitness model

Motiv ring

This device belongs to the category of fitness trackers rather than payment and slip rings. The main idea of ​​the gadget is tracking the user's physical activity. Some athletes complain that when wearing fitness bracelets or smart watches, their hand sweats, or a bulky strap clings to clothes, pieces of furniture, and unfastens at the most inopportune moment. Also, fitness trackers in the form of bracelets cannot be used for some sports, such as rock climbing.

The product was first presented to the public in 2017. After just one year, the developer released the second modification, which acquired additional functions. For correct operation, the manufacturer recommends wearing the smart ring on any finger other than the thumb and pinky.

The model under consideration allows you to track the heart rate and pulse, count the number of steps and distance traveled, the number of calories burned, track the quality of the workouts and monitor sleep.

The product of the American company supports smartphones based on Android and iOS. The gadget is available in two colors - dark gray or rose gold. The solid color is diluted by a strip of LED that lights up when charging or synchronizing with a smartphone. The jewelry is made of titanium, which provides high strength and resistance to damage, including falling from a height. The developer designed it in such a way that a person could wear it constantly. Despite the fact that the filling of the device takes up a lot of space, the manufacturer tried to make the ring as ergonomic as possible, it is slightly wider and thicker in size than the wedding ring.

The package includes a magnetic charger that can be connected to a computer or a power bank. The charging process is carried out using the transmission of magnetic waves; the adapter can be inserted into a special keychain. Since this is a premium brand, the manufacturer thinks about the comfort of the user, and before ordering the product, he sets up a batch of fitting rings so that the buyer can choose the most convenient option for himself.

According to user reviews, it is recommended to remove the product before exercising in the gym, since when exposed to hard objects (horizontal bar, bar), it is scratched, which affects the appearance. It is also inconvenient to carry heavy bags with a smart ring, as it digs into the skin of the hands and causes discomfort. Another disadvantage of using the gadget is that during physical activity, the device rotates, while the sensor that tracks the heart rate is displaced relative to the required location, which is why the data is not read correctly, or measurements are not taken at all.

The device can work autonomously by connecting to the application once every few days. This does not require direct contact, you can turn the ring three times around the axis, and synchronization will occur automatically.

The smartphone app is somewhat different from those that monitor the activity of fitness trackers. So, for example, it is impossible to immediately know the number of steps taken, since the counting unit includes two components: the number of heartbeats and the amount of physical activity. In order to view the distance traveled, you need to go to a separate tab. Despite the fact that this smart ring is produced by one of the best manufacturers of wearable electronics, the branded application does not have much functionality.

According to users, data reading is performed accurately and correctly, the device almost never makes mistakes. However, due to the lack of a GPS function in the device, it is impossible to find out some of the specific data needed by athletes - cadence, running pace, etc.

Since the device performs a large number of tasks, it cannot function without a full battery like previous models. The smart ring uses a small battery, which, according to the manufacturer, should be enough for three days of use. Nevertheless, according to customer reviews, with great physical exertion and constant monitoring of the state of the body, the battery is discharged in less than 1 day.

A feature of the smart ring, in comparison with standard fitness trackers, is the absence of reminders about physical activity, which the latter “love” so much. This device is more suitable for professional athletes who independently monitor the amount of physical activity and do not need stimulation. The cost of the model is about $ 200 equivalent.

• wide functionality;
• ergonomic design and attractive appearance;
• high-quality components to ensure smooth operation;
• high resistance to damage;
• can be used as a two-factor authentication tool when entering sites.

• high price;
• short battery life (no more than three days).

Headset ring

ORII Smart Ring

This ring is completely different in its functionality from all those described above. Its task is to replace the smartphone with the tangential direct functionality of the latter. You need to answer a call, read a message or read a reminder - ORII Smart Ring will help you with this without having to take out the main gadget.

To transmit sound, the device uses bone conduction technology, so it is not necessary to bring the device directly to the ear opening, applying to the soft part of the ear will be enough.

The device supports Google Assistant and Siri, is equipped with a pair of noise canceling microphones and an indicator that changes color depending on the type of notification.

Alerts can be configured in a branded application.

The functionality of the device assumes the presence of its own battery with a capacity of 50 mAh, which is enough for 60 minutes of talk. In standby mode, the ring will live for almost two days.

The cost of the ORII Smart Ring is about 20,000 rubles.

• Stylish design;
• Replacing the headset in its classic form;
• Convenient indicator;
• Waterproof IPX7.

• It is not payment.

Conclusion

Ordinary people (not athletes), when they hear about smart rings, have little idea of ​​what it is and what they are for. This is due to the fact that companies are not too interested in the development of this area, considering it unpromising.

Due to the wide variety of functions that these devices can perform, before going to the store, you need to decide what you want to get from the device. In this article, we examined the features of choosing such gadgets, focusing on what you need to pay attention to when buying. We recommend choosing a smart ring with a must-visit, with a fitting, and after trying to wear it for at least a few minutes in order to understand whether it is right for you.

The most budgetary options will be of interest to young people and people who often come across electronic locking mechanisms. More expensive options will be a good alternative to payment cards. Athletes will be interested in more expensive models, which are practically not inferior in functionality to eminent fitness trackers, but they are much more convenient in daily use and do not interfere with sleep. We hope that our article will help you make the right choice.