You already know Oura just launched the Oura Ring 5 vs Ring 4 debate is now real. If you are wearing an Oura Ring 4 right now, you are probably wondering: should you actually upgrade?
I have compared both, and the short answer is: it depends. The Ring 5 is definitely better in a few areas. However, those improvements may not matter to everyone. Therefore, let us break down what changed, what stayed the same, and who should actually spend the money.
For everything about the Ring 5 launch – including release date, colors, and price – check out our full Oura Ring 5 launch guide.
What’s New in the Oura Ring 5 vs Ring 4 Comparison?
1. Rounder, More Comfortable Shape
The biggest physical change is the outer surface. While the Ring 4 had flatter edges, the Ring 5 uses a more rounded design. Consequently, it feels closer to a traditional jewelry ring. As a result, it feels smoother on your finger and catches less on clothing or blankets.
Honestly, I barely notice it during sleep now. That is a surprisingly big improvement for everyday comfort.
The curved edges also make the ring feel slightly less bulky during workouts and typing. On paper, that sounds minor. Nevertheless, in daily use, it is one of the most noticeable changes in this Oura Ring 5 vs Ring 4 comparison.
2. Larger Optical Sensors
Oura also made the sensors inside the ring larger. Additionally, the company added extra red and green LEDs. These improvements aim to boost heart rate accuracy during workouts and blood oxygen (SpO2) readings overnight.
In practice, workout heart rate tracking still is not perfect – no smart ring is perfect yet. However, the Ring 5 does feel slightly more stable compared to the Ring 4, especially during walks, cycling, and lighter workouts.
Sleep tracking accuracy, meanwhile, feels very similar between both rings.
3. New “Deep Rose” Color
Rose Gold is gone. Instead, Oura replaced it with a new “Deep Rose” finish – a darker bronze‑rose color that looks more subtle and less flashy.
Personally, I think it looks more premium than the older Rose Gold finish. Meanwhile, the standard Silver, Gold, and Stealth matte black colors are still available.
4. Same Battery Life and Same Charger
Battery life stays exactly the same at around 5–8 days depending on usage. The charging dock is also unchanged. Therefore, if you already own a spare Ring 4 charger, it will still work perfectly with the Ring 5.
Charging speed also feels nearly identical in everyday use.
5. Same Subscription and Same Price
The pricing situation remains unchanged. The Ring 5 still starts at 349,andOurastillrequiresthe5.99/month subscription for full insights and long‑term trends.
That means sleep breakdowns, HRV trends, stress tracking, long‑term health charts, and personalized recommendations still require the monthly membership.
For some users, that subscription is worth it. However, others may still prefer subscription‑free alternatives like the Samsung Galaxy Ring or Ultrahuman Ring Air.
What Stayed the Same in the Oura Ring 5 vs Ring 4?
Core Sensors
The core tracking experience is mostly unchanged. The Ring 5 still tracks heart rate, HRV, temperature, activity, sleep stages, and blood oxygen levels. However, there are still no major new health metrics like blood pressure monitoring.
App Experience
Similarly, the app experience feels almost identical. You still get the same Readiness, Sleep, and Activity scores. There is no major redesign or software overhaul. If you already use Oura daily, the Ring 5 software experience will feel immediately familiar.
Water Resistance and Sizing
Water resistance also stays the same at 100 meters. Showering, swimming, and everyday water exposure are still completely fine. The sizing kit remains unchanged as well. Therefore, if you already know your Ring 4 size, you can safely order the same size for the Ring 5.
Head‑to-Head: Oura Ring 5 vs Ring 4
| Feature | Oura Ring 4 | Oura Ring 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Outer shape | Flat edges | Curved, rounded |
| Comfort | Good | Better, especially during sleep |
| Sensor size | Standard | Larger with more LEDs |
| Heart rate accuracy | Decent | Slightly improved |
| Colors | Rose Gold | Deep Rose replaces Rose Gold |
| Battery life | 5–8 days | 5–8 days |
| Price | $349 | $349 |
| Subscription | $5.99/month | $5.99/month |
| Charger compatibility | Standard dock | Same charger works |
Is the Ring 5 More Accurate?
The answer is: slightly. During workouts, the Ring 5 appears a bit more stable when tracking heart rate. However, smart rings still struggle with intense exercise compared to chest straps or smartwatches.
For sleep tracking and recovery metrics, the difference feels much smaller. So, while the upgraded sensors are welcome, they do not completely transform the experience.
Should You Upgrade?
Upgrade if:
- Your Ring 4 feels uncomfortable during sleep
- You want the latest sensor hardware
- You care about slightly better workout tracking
- You really like the new Deep Rose finish
- You simply want the newest version available
Skip the upgrade if:
- Your Ring 4 already works well
- Comfort has never been an issue
- You are waiting for major new features like blood pressure tracking
- You are on a budget
- You dislike Oura’s subscription model
For many current Ring 4 owners, the differences may not feel large enough to justify spending another $349.
My Honest Opinion After Comparing Both
After comparing both rings, the Ring 5 clearly feels more refined. The rounded shape genuinely improves comfort, especially during sleep. Additionally, the slightly larger sensors do help with workout stability.
However, the overall experience is still very similar to the Ring 4.
So, if you are buying your first Oura ring, the Ring 5 is the obvious choice. Nevertheless, if your Ring 4 still works perfectly, waiting for a bigger future upgrade may be the smarter decision.
The Ring 6 will likely bring more meaningful changes like blood pressure monitoring or new health sensors. That is when upgrading may feel substantially more worthwhile.
For now, the Ring 5 feels more like a refinement than a revolution.
For all the specs, colors, and launch details, read our full Oura Ring 5 launch guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my Ring 4 charger with the Ring 5?
Yes. The Ring 5 uses the same charging dock and cable.
Does the Ring 5 track blood pressure?
No. Oura has filed patents related to blood pressure technology, but the feature is not available yet.
Is the subscription still required?
Yes. Full insights and long‑term trends still require the $5.99/month membership.
How much more accurate is the Ring 5?
Workout heart rate tracking feels slightly more stable. However, sleep tracking and recovery data are mostly similar to the Ring 4.
Should I sell my Ring 4 to buy a Ring 5?
Only if comfort or sensor accuracy matters a lot to you. Otherwise, the Ring 4 still remains a very capable smart ring in 2026.