In this intriguing comparison, we explore the differences between two distinct wearable devices: the Fitbit Sense and the Oura Ring. While they serve similar health-tracking purposes, their designs and functionalities diverge significantly.

For years, I’ve been an avid smartwatch user, starting with the Pebble and transitioning through various models like the Apple Watch, Fitbits, Fossils, and the Galaxy Watch Active 2. My fascination with smartwatches stems from a childhood filled with spy gadgets and high-tech heroes, leading me to desire a watch that offers more than just timekeeping.

However, I’ve encountered several drawbacks with smartwatches. For instance, certain materials like silicone cause skin irritations, while Apple Watches can be distracting. Sleeping with a smartwatch can also be uncomfortable, especially since tracking my sleep is crucial. Moreover, I dislike wearables that require daily charging for sleep monitoring. Although I own several attractive traditional watches, they often remain unused because smartwatches have taken precedence in my daily life.

Then came the Oura Ring. This sleek device piqued my interest for its discreet design and health-monitoring capabilities. Initially, I hesitated to invest in one due to my preference against wearing rings and their hefty price tag. However, while shopping for the Fitbit Sense, I realized that the prices were comparable, prompting me to reconsider the Oura Ring.

My reluctance towards rings became more pronounced after getting married last year. Although I’m still adjusting to wearing one, the pandemic limited my outings, making it less of an issue. As life returns to normal, I’ll likely be expected to wear a ring regularly, and if I’m going to do that, I might as well invest in one that offers health insights.

The reason for this comparison lies in the shared sensors of both devices, which aim to monitor similar health metrics. The Fitbit Sense includes an oxygen sensor, heart-rate tracker, and a skin temperature sensor, while the Oura Ring features similar capabilities.

However, these devices approach health tracking differently; the Fitbit emphasizes fitness, while the Oura focuses on sleep. Thus, this comparison will delve into their similarities and differences.

Pricing Let's tackle the price first. Both devices are on the pricier side. The Fitbit Sense retails for around $329, although sales can drop the price to approximately $249. This purchase includes the watch itself, a magnetic charger, and a silicone band, with additional bands available for $29-$50. The Sense comes in two color options: graphite and soft gold.

The Oura Ring starts at $299 for silver or glossy black titanium but can reach $999 for a diamond-studded variant. It’s available in two shapes: Heritage and Balance, and each purchase includes a charging dock.

Fitbit’s packaging includes both small and large bands, while the Oura Ring requires you to choose a size for your intended finger. Oura recommends using a sizing kit to ensure a proper fit, which I neglected to do. I typically wear size 11 rings, but opted for size 12 for comfort.

For this review, I’m testing the graphite Sense and the glossy black Heritage Ring.

Winner: No clear winner yet; both devices are similarly priced, but their value remains to be seen.

Design If you're familiar with Fitbit’s Versa series, the Sense’s design will feel familiar. The device resembles a squircle, reminiscent of retro TV screens. The screen is slightly larger than earlier models, yet a noticeable bezel remains, though it often goes unnoticed due to a predominantly black interface.

The redesigned silicone band makes swapping out bands easier, using a snap-in mechanism instead of a cumbersome pin system. A notable upgrade is the magnetic puck charger, which replaces the awkward clamp charger of the Versa 2.

The Sense has also switched to a capacitive side button, which some users find less responsive. However, it allows for convenient access to features like Google Assistant and music controls.

The Oura Ring, contrastingly, has no screen and offers no feedback, merely appearing as a regular ring. Its titanium construction is surprisingly lightweight, feeling almost plastic-like. The inner ring houses the sensors, which can leave slight indentations on the finger after prolonged wear.

While the Oura Ring excels in minimalism, I sometimes wish it had some haptic feedback for reminders or alerts. Oura claims the battery lasts 4-7 days, while Fitbit advertises 6 days.

Winner: It’s challenging to declare a design winner, as both devices cater to different aesthetics. The Fitbit Sense feels more premium, but the Oura Ring offers a unique, discreet design.

Sensors and Interface On paper, the Fitbit Sense and Oura Ring appear evenly matched regarding sensors, both tracking heart rate, skin temperature variations, and activity. However, their methods differ significantly.

As a fitness tracker, the Fitbit Sense logs steps, workouts, sleep, and more, including blood oxygen levels during sleep. It provides extensive data, but I’ve noticed that notifications can sometimes feel generic and not tailored to my specific needs.

Conversely, the Oura Ring is not a traditional fitness tracker. It focuses on rest and recovery, making it a complementary device to other fitness gadgets. While it can track activity, it does so less frequently than the Fitbit.

For optimal performance, the Fitbit requires you to specify which wrist it's worn on, while the Oura Ring can be worn on any finger. Oura promotes the idea that finger-based sensors offer more accurate readings.

Winner: Fitbit Sense wins for its superior interface and ability to track more metrics actively.

The App Both wearables come with apps available on Android and iOS, syncing via Bluetooth. Fitbit's app offers a wealth of information, including detailed health metrics. However, some features require a premium subscription.

In contrast, the Oura app is free with no hidden costs. It presents a more streamlined approach, delivering sleep and readiness scores directly on the home screen. While it lacks the extensive metrics of Fitbit, it provides insights without overwhelming users.

Winner: Fitbit App triumphs due to its more comprehensive capabilities, though Oura offers simplicity.

Sleep Tracking The Oura Ring shines in sleep tracking, providing unobtrusive monitoring compared to the Fitbit Sense. Both devices track heart rate variability and skin temperature, but Oura’s insights are more actionable and less intrusive.

While Fitbit offers extensive graphs and data, Oura’s sleep scores are easier to interpret, making it more user-friendly.

Winner: Oura Ring wins for its comfort and insightful sleep tracking.

The Workout Fitbit reigns supreme in workout tracking, offering real-time heart rate monitoring and detailed activity logs. The Oura Ring does track activity but lacks heart rate data during exercise, making it less suitable for serious fitness enthusiasts.

Winner: Fitbit Sense is the clear victor for workout tracking capabilities.

Conclusion My rediscovery of traditional watches has led me to appreciate the Oura Ring, which focuses on sleep and health metrics without the constant need for a smartwatch. While I still value smartwatches for certain functionalities, the Oura Ring provides a comfortable alternative for health tracking.

For those prioritizing fitness tracking and continuous heart rate monitoring, the Fitbit Sense is undoubtedly the better option. Both devices excel in their respective areas, and the choice ultimately depends on individual needs—whether it's fitness tracking or restful monitoring. Whichever you choose, both devices offer a path to a healthier lifestyle.