Enjoy discreet activity tracking and NFC functionality with …

Smart rings have been around for some years, but they kind of started on the wrong foot. Eager startups tried inventing novel gesture control systems that looked mighty impressive in professionally shot YouTube videos, but absolutely flopped in practice. Circle forward to 2017, and makers of smart rings have sobered up their approach – build token wearable functionality like activity tracking and NFC connectivity into the discreet form factor enabled by the jewel. Not everyone wants rings, of course, but if a smartwatch or smart wristband don’t do it either, you may at least consider a smart ring for the convenience and functionality it has to offer. We have rounded up five of the better products out there, and we hope you will find them interesting!

ŌURA Ring

The ŌURA ring measures and analyses your body to learn about you and your lifestyle. For example, it helps you understand how well you have slept and recharged. The captured data is visualized inside the ŌURA app, which provides personalized recommendations while showcasing trends, details, and changes over time. ŌURA rings are available in eight sizes – US6 to US13. A free ring sizer kit will be sent before choosing your size.

Build material	Unknown
Needs charging?	Yes
NFC?	No
Activity tracking?	Yes

Stargaze Black Onyx

With the Black Onyx, you can accurately track steps, distance, and burned calories. Use the Ringly app to create goals and view progress, or receive customized phone alerts with subtle vibration patterns and light. What’s more, the ring can sync with over a hundred productivity, wellness, and messaging apps. The gadget itself is water-resistant, too, so don’t worry about getting it wet!

Build material	Stainless Steel & Cushion-cut Black Onyx (Gemstone)
Needs charging?	Yes
NFC?	No
Activity tracking?	Yes

Lycos Life Smart NFC Ring

The Life Smart ring features a Personal Security Manager with advanced options for mobile device security. There’s a Wireless Tap to Transfer Function (T2T), along with the ability to unlock your phone without a password – just tap the ring. The wearable is water-resistant at up to 1 meter depth, for 30 minutes. With this gadget, you can securely and seamlessly log in to your favorite apps and websites on your phone, while enjoying an additional level of security with fingerprints and passcodes.

Build material	Unknown
Needs charging?	Unknown
NFC?	Yes
Activity tracking?	No

NFC Ring

Take your NFC-enabled Android phone out of your pocket, slide your hand on the back, and the NFC Ring will unlock it. The wearable has two special NFC tag inlays – one for public information and one for more sensitive stuff. For example, having an NFC-enabled door lock means your NFC Ring will be able to interact with it. You can also use your NFC Ring to share Wi-Fi information, links to websites and pictures, contact information, and anything else you want to transfer securely to other devices. The NFC Ring can be used to start apps with custom settings as well, making it even easier to use your smartphone. The NFC Ring is water-resistant up to a depth of 50m and never needs charging.

Build material	Varies
Needs charging?	Unknown
NFC?	Yes
Activity tracking?	No

Motiv Ring

Coming soon to the market, the Motiv Ring is a powerful and discreet wearable with a 3-axis accelerometer, an optical heart rate sensor, and a lithium ion battery (good for 3-5 days) that charges in under 90 mins. The Motiv Ring measures active minutes, heart rate, and calories burned while differentiating between various activity types and tracking sleep duration. Available in 7 sizes, the ring is sold in Slate Gray and Rose Gold.

Build material	Unknown
Needs charging?	Yes
NFC?	No
Activity tracking?	Yes