While the shift into health and wellness has been something we’ve keenly observed, another angle that adds to the conversation is the rise and accessibility of fitness trackers. At first, it was wearable tech devices like Apple Watches and Garmins giving us detailed reports on our sleep, heart health, step count, and more. And while this is important information, it doesn’t necessarily need to involve a screen. Especially after experts have mentioned the damage of continuous blue light exposure, a screenless health tracker might be the way to go for those looking for something subtle and discreet. That looks like screenless bands and rings that can be easily incorporated into an unassuming bracelet or ring stack. These are the pieces we’re looking to cop.
Google | Fitbit Air
The latest release by Google, the Fitbit Air is a lightweight band with a minimalistic, sleek design. Instead of the screen, you get a sensor at the back of the band, contacting the skin for health insights, which can then be accessed through the Google Health app. It helps to track sleep, heart rate, heart rhythm, and more. The slim design means that it doesn’t feel finicky on the wrist, making it comfortable enough to sleep in.
Oura | Ring 4
Out of all the smart rings out there, Oura comes with the most hype. And it’s well deserved because Oura packs a punch for being a subtle tracker. The design is timeless, and with plenty of options to choose from, it can match any kind of ring stack. The sensors are smooth and don’t hurt the skin, and the ring rarely needs to be charged, which means it rarely comes off. It features sleep tracking, blood-oxygen sensing, workout insights, 24/7 heart rate monitoring, stress levels, period cycling tracking, and more.
Whoop | 5.0
Another piece of wearable tech that deserves all its hype because of its subtle integration. Whoop’s design comes with five options—a CoreKnit version that’s built for durability and flex, a SuperKnit version for all day comfort, a SportFlex version with silicone to tackle sweat, a Navigator version designed for the outdoors, and a LeatherLuxe version with leather and metallic hardware that mimics the silhouette of a watch making it the most discreet option for everyday wear. Depending on the subscription model, the Whoop might come with different features but what they have in common is that the band tracks stress, recovery, sleep, HRV, blood pressure, women’s hormonal health, and more.
Samsung | Galaxy Ring
For Android users looking for a compatible smart ring, this is the best option on the market. Water resistant and made with titanium, the Galaxy Ring is sleek and comfortable on the finger, making it into a piece of jewellery that’s forgettable on the hand. Unlike other trackers in the market, this one needs no subscription and tracks sleep, movement, hormonal cycles, heart rate, and more. It also features AI for reports and health tips.
POLAR | Loop
Another subscription-free fitness tracker, this is also compatible with an iPhone, making it the ideal option for iOS users. Featuring a soft knit fabric, the band almost feels like a second skin, easily incorporating itself. However, the band is on the bigger side and, to the unassuming eye, looks like a watch just like the Whoop. It works to track sleep, heart rate, daily activity, and more.
RingConn | Gen 3
For those looking for a subscription-free smart ring, RingConn is the option to go. With a slimmer design compared to other smart rings, it genuinely feels like wearing jewellery rather than a piece of tech. The latest version, the Gen 3, comes with longer battery life, lasting up to 14 days, smart vibrational alerts, and heart health insights. It also does the usual job of tracking sleep, skin temperature, blood oxygen, and more. One feature that stands out is their sleep apnea tracker, which makes use of RingConn’s algorithm to track unusual patterns. While it may not be a clinical diagnosis, it definitely helps to bring such patterns to light!
The Gen 3 isn’t officially out yet, but pre-orders for the ring are available.
Amazfit | Helio Strap
For those in training looking for an accurate fitness tracker without the screens, say hello to Amazfit, which carries a smart band, a smart arm band, and a smart arm sleeve. We would recommend the smart band for the most versatility. Worn on the wrist like a watch, it accurately tracks performance, heart rate, sleep tracking, stress, and blood oxygen. The only con of this piece is that, design-wise, it only comes in black, restricting it to those who are looking for more colourful options.
Ultrahuman | Ring AIR
While not as slim on the finger, Ultrahuman makes it up by being a cost-efficient option compared to other smart rings. It doesn’t come with a subscription fee model, making its insights easier to access, while the design of the ring is smooth and comfortable on the skin. It tracks screentime, vitamin D level, circadian rhythm, step count, women’s health, sleep quality, and more.
