Samsung Galaxy Ring hands-on review: Watch me use 'double tap' to take selfies
Samsung Galaxy Ring hands-on review: a tech expert's experience with the new health-focused wearable.
The Samsung Galaxy Ring wants to topple the Oura Ring from its throne — and I am here for it. Without even diving into specs, the Korea-based tech giant already has the edge. Why? No monthly subscription fee.
Yeah, you read that correctly. Let me say it slower so that it can really sink in: no. subscription. fee. period.
Samsung knew better. We're all drowning in subscription fees. From the cornucopia of mid streaming services like Netflix and Hulu to Spotify and Apple Music, we are tired. A health-focused ring is intriguing, but throw in the words "You have to pay this monthly," and I'll do a quick about face. Peace out!
On top of not wanting to suck me dry every 30 days, the Samsung Galaxy Ring has a bewitching charm, especially the gold one. I spent about two hours with the Samsung Galaxy Ring — here's what I think of it.
Samsung Galaxy Ring hands-on review
The Samsung Galaxy Ring samples I tried on were, unfortunately, too big for me.
Sized at 8 and 11, the Galaxy Ring models were far too loose, making it difficult to discern whether the Galaxy Ring would be enough comfortable for all-day wear, including sleep, as Samsung claims.
However, I couldn't help but gravitate toward the Titanium Gold model; this one is visually enchanting. (The Galaxy Ring also comes in Titanium Black and Titanium Silver.)
Look at it.
I mean, just look at it.
It feels as glossy as it looks. It's pleasantly smooth and polished, providing a satisfyingly slick sensation while holding it. It's so lustrous, I could see my own reflection on it. The gold finish on this ring looks regal and elegant while simultaneously giving "I'm the main character" energy with its gleaming appearance.
Choosing the perfect size
If you're concerned about possibly getting an ill-fitting Galaxy Ring, Samsung addresses this concern by providing a complimentary sizing kit upon purchase.
The Samsung Galaxy Ring comes with nine sizes: 5, 6, 7, 8, 9. 10, 11, 12, 13. For what's worth, the circumference of my finger is slightly above five centimeters, and after testing some sizes in the kit, I'm officially a size 6.
Samsung doesn't adhere to the standard sizing conventions typically used for rings. However, in my experience, my usual ring size (i.e., a 6) translated perfectly to the Samsung Galaxy Ring.
Smart design
The Samsung Galaxy Ring doesn't have a flat surface. It's concave, with a tangible dip inward. Now, why would Samsung design its first ring this way? Because, according to the tech giant, it helps increase scratch resistance. A concave design, with much of its body curving and sloping, will be a lot harder to scratch and damage.
The Samsung Galaxy Ring consists of Titanium Grade 5, a type of titanium alloy known for its durability and strength, as well as its resistance to corrosion. It's also quite lightweight, making it a popular choice for jewelry.
Personally, I didn't like the Titanium Black model. Like the Titanium Silver variant, it has a matte finish, which isn't my thing. However, for those who prefer a minimalist, low-luster look, go for Titanium Black and Titanium Silver.
What can the Galaxy Ring do for you?
If you look closely, you can spot the myriad of sensors packed inside the Galaxy Ring.
Some sensors featured on the Galaxy Ring include a photodiode sensor to monitor heart rate fluctuations, an infrared sensor that measures blood-oxygen levels, accelerometers for workout detection, and more.
But the question is, what, exactly, can the Galaxy Ring do for you health-wise? It can track the following:
sleep
physical capacity and activity
heart rate
menstrual cycle
steps
stress
medication
blood-oxygen level
food-and-water intake
It's also worth noting that the Galaxy Ring sends alerts if your heart rate is too high or too low — something the Oura Ring does not do. Speaking of the heart, the Galaxy Ring can deliver information about beats per minute with the Live Heart Rate Check feature.
Unfortunately, I had a short time with the Galaxy Ring, so of course, I can't tell you how well these health-tracking features work. (That will change once I get my hands on a review unit.) However, even when you get the Galaxy Ring, you'll still want to give the Galaxy Ring some time to get to "know" you, particularly with the Galaxy AI-powered features that underpin it.
For example, Energy Score is a Galaxy AI feature that generates a score that represents your current health based on certain metrics, including your sleeping habits and physical activity. There's also a Wellness Tips feature that rolls out suggestions and recommendations based on the health data it has collected about you. As such, the more you use the Galaxy Ring, the better it should be.
It doubles as a remote
Similar to how one can use an Apple Watch to trigger the shutter button on their iPhone, you can use the Galaxy Ring to take pictures on any Galaxy phone running One UI 6.1.1 or above.
You can wear the ring on any finger. And after a quick set up and two intentional taps, I was able to trigger the shutter button on the Galaxy Z Flip 6. I checked the most recent shot, and there I was — my selfie in all of its double-tap glory.
Samsung says you can use the double tap feature to shoot video and snooze an alarm, too.
The latter is underrated. Imagine never needing to look at a screen to quiet an alarm. All you need to do is use a subtle gesture and roll right back to sleep.
Samsung Galaxy Ring charging
I got a chance to check out the Galaxy Ring's adorable charging station, too. It's a slightly translucent ring box with a USB-C port for charging.
You can't place the Galaxy Ring inside the box any ol' way. It has to be situated on the charging pad in a specific manner. However, with practice, you'll get the hang of it (like I did). Samsung says the Galaxy Ring lasts seven hours on a single charge, similar to the Oura Ring.
Samsung Galaxy Ring price and availability
The Samsung Galaxy Ring is $399.99 for all three finishes. Honestly, I'm surprised the gold one isn't pricier because it's so much better looking, but I'll keep my mouth shut. I don't want Samsung to get any ideas. Preorders kick off on July 10.
