Rating of the best NFC rings from Aliexpress: TOP 8 popular models in 2022

Smart rings, also called NFC rings, are the latest in a rapidly growing family of smart devices. Their main function is contactless payments. Which is not surprising, since NFC (Near-Field Communication) stands for contactless payment technology.

Unlike watches and fitness bracelets, smart rings have not yet reached the mass level. Famous brands timidly glance in their direction, but so far NFC rings exist mainly as startups of young progressive companies. Where can such companies sell their products if not on AliExpress? Therefore, the Chinese online hypermarket is the best place to buy a smart ring.

The NFC ring will work if the smartphone is equipped with an NFC module

Important! Any NFC ring will only work if the smartphone is equipped with an NFC module. If there is no such item in the settings, then the gadget simply cannot be “programmed”. Only those things that are not related to the mobile will work.

Rating of the best NFC rings from Aliexpress

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History of appearance

The first prototype of a ring with an NFS module was created back in 2012. A year later, the device was released by a UK developer, NFC Ring, which raised money for the project through crowdfunding on the Kickstarter platform. The organization still maintains a page on the portal, by visiting which it is possible to trace the stages of the project’s implementation.

In 2016, mass production was launched and the design of the ring was redesigned, which made it possible to look at the device not only as a means of payment, but also as a decoration. In addition to the patent, NFC Ring owns software for electronic devices.

Cheap NFC rings (up to 400 rubles) from AliExpress

SHOUMAN JWR341

This super-budget ring doesn’t even have the main function – contactless payment for purchases. More precisely, it exists, but it works crookedly and most often only with Chinese cards. But this is an ideal product for the first acquaintance with new technology. Many stores sell this ring in different colors, but the design is always the same. As well as the material of manufacture – stainless steel.

SHOUMAN JWR341

Possibilities:

• opening the intercom;
• virtual business card;
• unlocking a smartphone;
• quick launch of programs;
• price: 124 rub.

pros

• extremely low price;
• Suitable for all smartphones that have an NFC module installed;
• waterproof (but how much is a big question).

Minuses

• few functions;
• the seller does not guarantee that the ring will work as it should;
• Contactless payment does not work with most cards not issued in China.

SHOUMAN JWR820

Another NFC ring model from an unknown manufacturer is not as popular as the first. But in vain. This one has more functionality for the same money.

SHOUMAN JWR820

Possibilities:

• opening the intercom;
• electronic business card;
• contactless launch of applications;
• identification card (however, it is not entirely clear whether it works);
• locking and unlocking your phone;
• price: 115 rub.

pros

• many features for the price;
• ideal for first acquaintance with NFC rings;
• good design for technology lovers.

Minuses

• contactless payments almost don’t work - it’s impossible to link most cards not “originally” from China;
• some functions work every other time (a common problem with all cheap rings);
• There are no guarantees from the seller.

Woogge RG3095

A nice NFC ring that looks more expensive than it actually costs. However, this is a matter of taste - some will like the rhinestone in the very center of the product, but others will only be put off. As for the functions, the seller is tactfully silent about them, mentioning only the possibility of contactless payment. We can conclude that the set of “skills” the ring has is the most standard. Customer reviews are good, so we believe that NFC payments work.

Woogge RG3095

Possibilities:

• contactless payments;
• work with smartphone locking and applications;
• electronic business card;
• opening intercom and other combination locks;
• identification card;
• price: 203 rub.

pros

• good design;
• low price;
• NFC payment works fine;
• basic functionality like unlocking the phone and opening the intercom is also in place.

Minuses

• no description in the store - only photographs;
• For such a price, the ring is unlikely to be compatible with every terminal or intercom.

SmartLife PPR0035 from Pingpingdandan Store

From an unbranded smart ring, you don’t really expect it to actually work. But this model still works. Reviews from customers, including those from Russia, say: the NFC module was successfully configured, contactless payment is processed (albeit only once). You can't ask for more at this price.

SmartLife PPR0035 from Pingpingdandan Store

Possibilities:

• contactless payment;
• screen locking and unlocking;
• electronic business card;
• quick launch and closing of applications;
• notifications about incoming calls on the phone;
• price: 306 rub.

pros

• NFC really works;
• good design without unnecessary inscriptions;
• good water resistance;
• works faster than cheaper models;
• nice price - you won’t find a cheaper one with more or less stable payment.

Minuses

• there is no application;
• You have to get it very close for it to work.

Dangers and pitfalls of such a remedy

If the ring is lost, funds can be easily debited from a bank account or credit card until the client blocks access to them. But to block it, you will need to contact the organization’s branch, and this will take time. The accessory does not yet have a sufficiently high degree of protection compared to using a smartphone.

Despite the use of the most durable materials for the production of a smart ring, it is possible to damage it. In this case, transactions using it will no longer take place. There have been cases where the chip stopped working at a payment terminal for no reason, which caused inconvenience to users.

The information seems disingenuous when manufacturers claim that it can be used and not removed under any conditions. Most materials are not resistant to sudden temperature changes and cannot withstand strong impacts.

The ring is subject to hacker attacks. Fraudsters have managed to develop special devices that allow them to read signals when traveling on public transport. And although many rings have a payment limit of 1,000 rubles without a PIN, the risk of incurring losses remains high.

How to choose an NFC ring?

First of all, the choice of ring depends on functionality. If these gadgets were produced by large brands, they could do everything at once - receive calls, measure calories... But indie companies do not have the resources for this, and their products (besides the main task - contactless payments) are focused on a small number of functions. Accordingly, you should choose a ring based on what “skill” the buyer wants to see in it.

Table. What characteristics should you pay attention to?

Price

It is worth understanding that in NFC rings, most of which were produced by amateurs using funds raised through crowdfunding, not all declared functions work successfully. And in cheap rings, which are a reaction from an unknown manufacturer to someone’s local success, it’s even worse.

"Smart" ring - a modern and convenient gadget

If the purchased gadget costs 200 rubles. The NFC module works normally - this can be considered great luck. Therefore, in order to really use contactless payment, you need rings at least from the middle price category.

Dimensions

Most of the rings (as well as other products on AliExpress) are made in China, and there, as you know, there is a different sizing chart for clothes and accessories. The locals have thinner fingers than ours. Therefore, the ring should be selected for one of the large fingers - the index or middle. Even if it turns out to be smaller than the size stated by the seller, it will certainly fit on the ring or at least the little finger.

Important! Reviews for the product help you not make a mistake with the size. Particular attention should be paid to photographs where the ring is worn on the hand.

Ring Size Chart

Smartphone app

Most of the more expensive rings have their own official applications. With the help of these programs it is convenient to manage the device and use its functionality to the fullest. Cheap rings do not provide such “luxury”, but you can always use the universal NFC Tools application - it also does a good job.

Useful stones and minerals

Developers often embed a useful stone into the ring to improve blood circulation, increase vigor, improve sleep quality... This is called a “health module”. If the seller of a ring for 100 rubles declares the presence of a module, then everything is clear - this is a hoax. But more expensive rings may already contain such stones. It is a very useful element for interested people.

Important! The best choice for this parameter is the Jakcom R3 ring, as its “energy stone” is visible in the photographs. This model definitely has it, and sellers have no opportunity to embellish it.

What are the pros and cons?

The main advantages of the NFC ring include the following aspects:

• A ring is a stylish accessory that is always at hand. Useful not only from a functional point of view, but also complements any style;
• there is no need to take a bank card with you;
• the presence of a security system that allows you to secure funds in the account;
• Resistant to moisture and mechanical stress, so you don’t have to take it off during sports or taking a shower;
• works autonomously and does not need charging;
• can be programmed independently at home;
• wide range of models and sizes.

Despite the wide functionality, there are a number of nuances:

• if there is no fingerprint function, an attacker can easily make purchases of up to 1000 rubles;
• no biometric security or PIN code.

Some banks, as a prerequisite for linking a card or account, require you to personally visit the branch with your passport and your card, which is inconvenient for many busy people.

Oura Ring

Buy now: ouraring.com | From $299

Not far behind the Motiv is this high-end, sleep tracking smart ring that raised a boatload of money on Kickstarter and became one of the few to actually ship to backers. The app uses data on how well you've slept and does something useful with it – Oura provides you with a simple, intuitive readiness score for the day.

Plus, it makes personalized suggestions and can show you trends over time. Oura comes in two models and ring sizes US6 – US13. In its second iteration, this smart ring is significantly slimmer and sleeker than its predecessor.

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It packs in multiple sensors, including infrared optical pulse measurement, a 3D accelerometer, gyroscope and body temperature sensors. These sensors focus on providing insights into three areas; Readiness, Sleep and Activity.

It's pricier than the Motiv, but it does offer some really attractive features packaged in stylish ring design.

Read this: Oura Ring 2022 review

What banks do they use?

Banks of the Russian Federation have been offering smart rings with the NFC function to their clients since 2022.

Tinkoff

Tinkoff Bank, trying to keep up with the times, does not provide its own version of the ring with NFC. But if you purchased the device yourself, you can link it to a Tinkoff plastic card or bank account to pay for purchases.

Rosselkhozbank

His clients use rings priced at four and a half thousand rubles and weighing five grams, developed together with the manufacturer Pay Ring. The banking product from Rosselkhozbank positions itself as a new form of payment card made from zirconium dioxide.

The consumer is presented with four versions of the Saturn ring in black and matte and with two cut options. It is possible to link them to cards with Personal or Individual tariff plans. The gadget functions perfectly when exposed to moisture and during sports.

ICD

The cost of a ring from this bank is similar to the option discussed above, but the number of sizes is limited. The client is offered smooth, matte, black and white or black and blue striped products, as well as cut rings.

Other banks

You can’t buy such a ring at Sberbank; the project with Visa is closed. Obtaining a device is only possible at the financial institutions already discussed.

To ensure the secure binding of the ring, a separate account was opened in which a limited amount of money was kept by the bank. During the reporting period, the number of transactions was limited.

At Alfa Bank, the Alfa-Private client becomes the owner of a smart ring. The project is organized together with the VISA payment system.

The ring can be linked to a personal account or to Visa Alfa Miles Signature and Infinite cards. There is no need to charge or change the battery. The ceramic device can withstand falls and immersion in water up to fifty meters deep.

Belarus offers accessories for paying for purchases at Belagroprombank and MTBank. Oschadbank of Ukraine accepts pre-orders for smart rings; premium clients are entitled to such a service.

Purchasing methods

There are several options for purchasing a smart device. The payment ring is offered by banks; you can order it online or buy it on AliExpress.

Bank

Alfa Bank, MKB and Rosselkhozbank are engaged in independent sales. The device is provided free of charge in accordance with ongoing promotions or when issuing premium plastic cards.

The submitted application shall indicate the finger size. Bank employees insert the appropriate settings into the gadget they give out. You can check how they work right away by going shopping.

Online store

Internet shopping centers offer a large selection of rings that use contactless payment technology. The final cost is determined by the “filling” and functionality.

AliExpress

Let's continue our review of smart rings with products from Aliexpress. The selection of products is huge, prices start from 0.8 US dollars. The basis of the product line is products from the Jackom company.

The purchased goods are delivered to any locality. To choose a high-quality gadget, carefully check the seller based on customer reviews.

Tips for choosing

Most manufacturers offer smart rings in several options. The size range is the same as for jewelry, but not for Russian, but for American and Canadian. The smallest is 7 (54 millimeters), the largest is 12 (70 millimeters), the pitch is about 3 millimeters. To find out your ring size, you need to wrap a thread around your finger, measure its length with a ruler and divide the resulting number by 3.14.

Before purchasing the ring, you need to try it on. This is not a watch bracelet, which is much easier to customize. If the gadget dangles on your finger, it is better to refuse the purchase.

Buying a ring with NFC in Russia is still problematic. They are extremely rare in electronics stores. Searches will have to be conducted on foreign online trading platforms. The largest selection at an affordable price is offered by AliExpress, Gear Best, eBay, Amazon.

When choosing a gadget, you must first take into account the desired functionality. There are no universal rings yet; each model is made for specific tasks. Most of the companies that produce them are almost or completely unknown in Russia, so it is recommended to first find out at least something about the brand, study purchase reviews and technical specifications on the website.

Use Cases

We found out how a device with an NFC chip works. Now let's look at its capabilities.

Users of such a device will be able to:

• instantly pay, store and transfer data;
• open software-based locks of entrance doors and vehicles;
• daily monitor the state of your own body, the data of which is sent to the phone via activated Bluetooth;
• pay for public transport services. Some ring models are capable of recording ticket information for travel on public transport;
• control your phone, unlock it without entering a password, or activate this function;
• turn off the alarm clock on your smartphone using a smart ring;
• transmit contact information.

Scope of application

Initially, smart rings were created as an alternative to bank cards and smartphones with NFC technology. The sensor built into the body of the gadget guarantees a high level of security for operations. In addition to paying in stores, they can be used to purchase tickets for public transport. The principle of operation of the ring is the same as that of a contactless card.

Then the functionality of the gadget expanded to secure access control. Some models allow you to open and lock electronic locks in rooms and cars, turn lights on and off, and activate other functions in smart homes. In the future - a two-factor identification system (the key itself and its owner).

By connecting to a smartphone and computer using special applications, the rings can:

1. Send data to cloud storage.
2. Open accounts on social networks and other sites that require authorization.
3. Control the player and camera.
4. Notify the owner about incoming calls, messages, emails.

When giving a signal, the gadget vibrates or lights up. A completely exotic option is a ring that is also connected to a microphone. Then the decoration turns into a headset.

Not all gadget models have the ability to monitor the owner’s physical activity and biometric data. Such rings measure the number of steps, distance traveled, pulse, even the number of calories burned and monitor the quality of sleep. In addition to the NFC sensor, the case also includes a heart rate sensor, pedometer, and thermometer.