The Oura Ring Generation 4 is best for users who prioritize sleep tracking and overall health insights and prefer a discreet, screen-less device. The Garmin Forerunner 965 is the superior choice for serious athletes and triathletes who need accurate GPS tracking and comprehensive fitness data on a vibrant display.
| Attribute | Oura Ring Generation 4 | Garmin Forerunner 965 |
|---|---|---|
| Activity Tracking Accuracy | Detects movements like walking, providing data on time, duration, calories burned, steps, and heart rate. Most accurate with walking, may need confirmation for other exercises. Step tracking is on par with other devices but may overestimate slightly. | Generally accurate, GPS accuracy within +/- 0.05 miles. Step tracking is generally accurate, though some users have noted occasional inconsistencies indoors. |
| Sleep Monitoring Quality | Top-notch sleep tracker, providing a sleep score based on sleep duration and time spent in specific sleep stages. Tracks sleep duration, efficiency, latency, restfulness, time spent in different sleep stages, heart rate variability, blood oxygen saturation, breathing regularity and resting heart rate. Detects deep sleep segments and aligns well with perceived sleep quality. | Provides an easy-to-digest sleep score each morning, incorporating helpful statistics. However, sleep stage accuracy can vary. |
| Heart Rate Monitoring Precision | More sensitive sensors for heart rate, HRV, and respiration rate compared to Oura Ring 3. Claims 99.9% reliability in measuring resting heart rate compared to a medical-grade ECG. Accurately measures heart rate during sleep and daily activities, but may be less reliable during intense cardio exercise. | Generally impressive, with a difference of +/-0.76 BPM compared to chest-worn monitors in tests. However, some reviews note occasional errors during sports activities. |
| GPS Accuracy | No GPS functionality. | Multi-band GPS that is highly accurate and performs well in various environments, though tall buildings can still pose a challenge. |
| Battery Life (typical use) | Up to 8 days on a single charge. Blood oxygen sensing and frequent syncing can reduce battery life. Charging from 0 to 100% takes around 80 minutes. | Up to 23 days in smartwatch mode. 31 hours with GPS use. Enabling the always-on display reduces battery life to around 6-7 days. |
| Water Resistance Rating | Water-resistant up to 100 meters (328 feet). Suitable for swimming, showering, and snorkeling, but not for scuba diving or prolonged submersion. | 5 ATM, suitable for surface swimming and depths up to 50 meters. |
| Display Type and Clarity | Does not have a display screen. Users interact with the device through the Oura app on a connected smartphone. | 1.4-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 454 x 454 pixels. Offers vibrant colors, excellent clarity, and good visibility in various lighting conditions. |
| Smartphone Compatibility | Compatible with both Android and iOS devices. | Compatible with both Android and iOS devices. Mirrors smartphone notifications, but users cannot reply to messages from the watch. |
| Durability and Build Quality | Made of titanium, making it durable and resistant to scratches. The interior is non-allergenic. Some users have reported signs of wear and tear after a few months of use. | Features a titanium bezel and Corning Gorilla Glass 3 DX. Lightweight and feels durable, though some users recommend a screen protector for added protection. |
| Data Analysis and Reporting | Provides detailed data analysis and insights into various health metrics via the Oura app. Offers personalized recommendations based on sleep, activity, and stress levels. Provides a Readiness Score. | Provides a wide array of health metrics and features for in-depth data analysis. The Garmin Connect app offers insightful health and fitness scores, including training readiness, sleep insights, and more. |
| Comfort and Fit | Designed to be comfortable for 24/7 wear. Thinner and lighter than the Oura Ring 3, with recessed sensors for a smoother feel. Sizing can be tricky; using the Oura sizing kit is recommended. | Lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear, including during workouts and sleep. Comes with a silicone strap that is easily adjustable. |
| Price | Starts at $349. A monthly subscription is required for full access to features. | $599. Justified for serious athletes and triathletes. |