The Oura Ring has become synonymous with discreet health and sleep tracking. Now, with the Oura Ring 4 Ceramic, the company is doubling down on aesthetics. This isn’t just a wearable; it’s designed to blend into your everyday jewelry, prioritizing both function and fashion.
Why this matters: Most smart rings prioritize technology over form. The Oura Ring 4 Ceramic is an attempt to bridge that gap, offering a device that looks as good as it performs. This speaks to a broader trend in wearables: consumers want health data without sacrificing style.
First Impressions: A Ring, Not a Gadget
The Oura Ring 4 Ceramic is the first in the lineup to ditch the metallic finish, opting for a zirconia ceramic build. This material is more wear-resistant, according to Oura, and delivers a softer, more jewelry-like feel. Available in four colors – Midnight (dark blue), Cloud (white), Tide (light teal), and Petal (light pink) – it’s priced at $500, a $150 premium over the standard Ring 4. Sizes range from 4 to 15.
The Midnight color tested here appears almost black in certain lighting, offering a subtle, understated look. It’s thicker than the titanium version (3.51 mm vs 2.88 mm) and heavier (5.1-8.1 grams vs 3.3-5.2 grams), but the difference is barely noticeable. The ceramic feels warmer and less slippery than titanium, which can sometimes feel “sticky” but quickly becomes natural.
Key takeaway: The ceramic ring doesn’t look like tech. It’s a deliberate choice, appealing to users who want health data without shouting it from their wrist.
Durability: Ceramic vs. Reality
Oura warns that the ceramic can scuff against softer metals, like cookware or dumbbells. The included Polishing Pad (not provided in the review unit) can address minor scratches. Wearing it on your non-dominant hand is recommended, though real-world use often defies such caution.
After three weeks of testing, including travel, meetings, and occasional clumsy moments, the ring remained unscathed. Despite brushing against rusty railings and forgetting to remove it during dishwashing, no visible damage occurred. Water resistance up to 100 meters allows for showering or dishwashing, though Oura advises against contact with softer metals.
Why it matters: Ceramic is durable, but not indestructible. Scuffs are possible, but the ring holds up surprisingly well to everyday wear and tear.
Performance: The Familiar Oura Experience
Beyond aesthetics, the Ceramic ring delivers the same core functionality as the standard Ring 4. This includes sleep tracking, heart rate monitoring, readiness score calculation, and stress level analysis. The Oura app provides detailed insights into recovery, activity, and overall health.
Battery life remains consistent at five to eight days, depending on usage. The readiness score, a key metric, combines short-term and long-term data to assess daily preparedness.
Takeaway: The Ceramic ring isn’t just about looks. It retains the accurate and insightful health tracking that made the Oura Ring popular in the first place.
The Verdict: Style, Substance, and a Premium Price
The Oura Ring 4 Ceramic is a compelling option for users who prioritize aesthetics alongside health tracking. It delivers the same reliable data as the standard Ring 4, but with a more refined and jewelry-like design.
Is it worth the extra $150? If you value style and are willing to pay a premium, the Ceramic ring is a standout choice. If you’re primarily focused on functionality, the standard Ring 4 remains a solid option.
Ultimately, the Oura Ring 4 Ceramic proves that health tracking doesn’t have to be clunky or conspicuous. It’s a subtle, stylish, and effective way to monitor your well-being without sacrificing personal style
