Sekonda Smart Ring Offers Health Tracking at £80 Without Subscriptions

Sekonda has entered the smart ring market with a device priced at just £80, positioning it as a significantly cheaper alternative to established competitors like Oura and Ultrahuman, which typically cost over £300. The primary selling point is the absence of a mandatory subscription, allowing users to access core features without ongoing monthly costs.

While the low price tag is attractive, the device comes with distinct trade-offs. According to a review by Woman & Home, the ring is noticeably chunkier than premium rivals, and its sleep tracking lacks the detailed depth found in higher-end models. However, it delivers reliable heart rate monitoring and basic health metrics that may suit users who prefer a simple, no-frills wearable.

Affordable entry into the wearable market

The Sekonda ring is designed to appeal to those who find the price and subscription models of leading brands prohibitive. It tracks essential data points including heart rate variability, stress levels, and blood oxygen saturation. The device includes a purpose-built app for monitoring these metrics, ensuring that users receive a comprehensive overview of their daily health without the financial commitment associated with premium services.

The hardware itself is a plastic ring with a metallic casing, available in gold or silver finishes. It weighs only 4 grams and offers a battery life of up to seven days on a single charge. The charging dock is a small, lightweight plastic case, which is practical for travel, though it lacks the premium feel of competitors' accessories.

Sensors track core health metrics

In terms of performance, the heart rate sensor is described as accurate and reliable. The ring automatically tracks movement throughout the day, although it does not auto-detect specific workouts. Users must manually select activities from a wide list, which includes diverse options like Zumba, wrestling, and strength training exercises such as burpees.

It is important to note that smart rings are generally not precise step counters. During testing, the Sekonda provided different readings compared to dedicated fitness watches and other smart rings. While it offers a general indication of activity, users seeking highly accurate step counts or detailed exercise analytics may find it limiting compared to traditional wrist-worn trackers.

Design trade-offs in comfort and size

The most significant physical drawback is the ring's thickness. Reviewers noted that it feels noticeably bulkier on the finger compared to slimmer competitors like the Oura Ring 5. This chunkiness can be distracting when fingers are brought together, making it less invisible than thinner alternatives. The sizing process also requires caution, as users are advised to use a sizing chart and test the fit for at least 48 hours before purchasing to ensure the correct size between 7 and 12.

Despite these physical compromises, the Sekonda ring offers a functional entry point into the smart ring category. It provides a solid suite of health features for a fraction of the market-leading price, making it a viable option for those prioritizing cost and basic monitoring over premium build quality and detailed sleep insights.