How to Measure Ring Size with Your Phone: A Step-by-Step Guide
Your phone can be a surprisingly accurate ring sizing tool. Whether you have an existing ring to measure or need to estimate your finger size, your smartphone screen provides a calibrated surface for precise measurement. This guide walks you through two proven methods to get your perfect ring size in just minutes.
Last updated: February 2026
What You'll Need
- • An iPhone with the Ring Sizer app installed (free on App Store) — for the most accurate method
- • An existing ring that fits the finger you want to measure — preferred method for app-based sizing
- • OR: a piece of string/paper strip and a ruler — backup method if you don't have a ring to measure
- • Good lighting and a flat surface — ensures accurate measurement
Method 1: Using the Ring Sizer App (Most Accurate)
The Ring Sizer app uses smartphone screen calibration technology to measure your ring size with sub-millimeter accuracy. This is the most reliable method for phone-based measurement.
Download the Ring Sizer App from the App Store
Visit the App Store and search for "Ring Sizer" (App ID: 6739887211). The app is completely free with no hidden charges. Download and install it on your iPhone.
Open the App and Select "Measure with Ring"
Launch the Ring Sizer app and tap the "Measure with Ring" option. The app will ask for permission to use your camera and access calibration data for your specific iPhone model.
Place Your Ring Flat on the Phone Screen
Take an existing ring that fits the finger you're measuring. Gently lay it flat on your phone screen, positioning it so the app can see the inner edge clearly. The inner diameter of the ring is what determines your ring size.
Adjust the On-Screen Circle to Match the Ring's Inner Edge
The app displays a circle that you can resize with your finger. Adjust this circle until it perfectly aligns with the inner edge of your physical ring. Take your time with this step—precision here ensures accuracy.
Read Your Size in Your Preferred System
The app instantly displays your ring size in multiple formats: US sizes, UK sizes, EU sizes, and millimeter diameter. Choose the system you need for your purchase.
Verify by Repeating the Measurement 2-3 Times
Lift your ring off the screen, reposition it, and measure again. Repeat this process two to three times. Your measurements should be consistent. If you get slightly different readings, take the middle value as your most accurate size.
Pro Tip: Make sure your phone screen is clean before measuring—dust or smudges can interfere with the measurement. Also ensure the ring sits completely flat on the screen with no gaps between the ring and the display surface. Position yourself in a well-lit room, but avoid direct sunlight on your phone screen, which can create glare.
Method 2: String Method with Phone Ruler (Alternative Verification)
If you don't have an existing ring to measure or want to verify your app-based measurement, the string method is reliable and requires only household items. This is the ideal backup method for Android users or anyone without the app.
Cut a Thin Strip of Paper or Use Non-Stretchy String
Tear or cut a narrow strip from a sheet of paper, or gather a piece of non-stretchy string like dental floss or thin cotton string. The material should be flexible enough to wrap around your finger but not stretchy, as stretchy materials will give inaccurate measurements.
Wrap It Snugly Around the Base of the Finger
Wrap the string or paper strip around the base of the finger you're sizing. The key is "snug but not tight"—it should fit comfortably without leaving a mark or feeling constrictive. This is different from the way you'd wear a ring: measure at the widest part of the base, not over the knuckle.
Mark Where the Paper/String Overlaps
Hold the string or paper in place with one hand and use a pen to mark where the ends overlap. This overlap point is your circumference measurement.
Measure the Length in Millimeters Using a Ruler
Lay the string or paper on a ruler and measure from the starting point to your mark in millimeters. This is your ring circumference. For best results, use a metric ruler for precision.
Convert Your Circumference to Ring Size
Use a ring size conversion chart to match your circumference measurement to a ring size. For example, 52mm circumference typically equals US size 6, UK L, or EU size 52. You can also divide your circumference by 3.14159 to get the diameter in millimeters, then reference a size chart.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠ Wrapping too tightly: The string should be snug, not constrictive. A tight wrap will give you a size that's too small and won't fit comfortably when you wear the ring.
- ⚠ Measuring over the knuckle: Measure at the finger's widest point below the knuckle, not across the knuckle joint, which is larger and will skew your measurement.
Troubleshooting Inconsistent Measurements
Getting different measurements each time? Use this troubleshooting guide to identify and fix the problem.
Different sizes each measurement?
Solution: This is normal with manual measuring. Repeat your measurement three times and take the middle reading as your official size. If all three readings differ by more than half a size, ensure you're measuring correctly—consistent inconsistency points to technique issues.
Ring slides around on the phone screen?
Solution: Clean your phone screen with a soft cloth to remove dust and oils. Press the ring flat against the screen with gentle downward pressure. Measure in a well-lit room without glare. If your phone case is raised, you may need to remove it temporarily to get a flat surface.
Your measurement falls between two sizes?
Solution: Choose the larger size if you prefer wider band rings or thicker bands, as these will feel tighter. Choose the smaller size if you prefer thinner bands or delicate rings. If you're buying an engagement ring, consider comfort fit rings which are slightly roomier, and size up if between sizes.
Your finger seems different sizes at different times?
Solution: This is completely normal. Fingers swell during the day due to temperature changes, activity level, and hydration. Always measure in the evening at room temperature when your fingers are at their largest. This ensures your ring will fit comfortably throughout the day.
No existing ring to measure?
Solution: Use the string method to measure your finger directly, then cross-check your result with the Ring Sizer app using a friend's ring or by visiting a jewelry store to confirm. This two-method approach gives you confidence in your measurement.
When Phone Measurement Is Most and Least Reliable
Understanding the reliability of different measurement methods helps you choose the best approach for your situation.
✓ Most Reliable
Measuring a well-fitting existing ring on the Ring Sizer app screen. Phone screen calibration automatically adjusts for your specific iPhone model, achieving sub-millimeter accuracy.
✓ Very Reliable
String method done carefully at the right time of day (evening), with careful attention to wrapping technique and measurement precision.
⚠ Less Reliable
Guessing from a ring that doesn't fit well. If the reference ring is too tight or too loose, your measurement will be inaccurate. Only use rings that fit the finger comfortably.
Important Notes on Calibration: The Ring Sizer app's calibration specifically accounts for different iPhone models and screen technologies (LCD vs OLED, different screen sizes, etc.). This automatic calibration is why app-based measurement is more accurate than using a generic ruler or caliper directly on your screen.
For High-Stakes Purchases: If you're buying an engagement ring or other expensive jewelry (over $1000), we recommend combining phone measurement with an in-person visit to a jewelry store. A jeweler can confirm your size using professional sizing tools and ensure the ring fits perfectly before purchase.
Converting Your Phone Measurement to Any System
Once you have your measurement in millimeters or one sizing system, you can convert to any other system used worldwide. Here's a quick reference to get you started:
Example: 16.5mm diameter equals
- • US Ring Size: 6
- • UK Ring Size: L½
- • EU Ring Size: 52
- • Diameter: 16.5mm
- • Circumference: 52mm
Conversion Formulas
- Circumference to Diameter: Divide circumference by 3.14159 (π)
- Diameter to Circumference: Multiply diameter by 3.14159 (π)
- US to UK: Use our conversion tool at US to UK Ring Size Converter
- EU to US: Use our converter at EU to US Ring Size Converter
Need help converting? Browse our comprehensive ring size chart with all major sizing systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is measuring ring size on a phone?
Within 0.25-0.5 size when using an app with screen calibration. The Ring Sizer app calibrates to each iPhone model for sub-millimeter accuracy. This level of precision is typically accurate enough for purchasing rings online. The Ring Sizer app achieves accuracy comparable to professional jewelry store sizing tools because it accounts for your phone's specific screen technology and resolution.
Can I measure ring size without an existing ring?
Yes, use the string or paper method around your finger, then check the circumference against a size chart. While this method works, having an existing well-fitting ring to measure with the app is more reliable because you're measuring a known object rather than estimating finger dimensions. If you don't have a ring, ask a friend or family member if you can borrow one that fits a similar size finger.
Does this work on Android phones?
The Ring Sizer app is currently iOS-only. Android users can use the string method and reference our ring size chart for conversion. We're working to bring the Ring Sizer app to Android in the future. In the meantime, the string method is equally reliable when done correctly.
Should I measure my ring size in the morning or evening?
Evening is better. Fingers swell slightly during the day and are at their largest in late afternoon or evening, typically about 0.5-1 size larger than in the morning. Measuring when your fingers are at their largest ensures your ring will fit comfortably throughout the day. Avoid measuring first thing in the morning or after exposure to cold, as your fingers will be slightly smaller.
Ready to Find Your Perfect Ring Size?
Download the Ring Sizer app and measure your ring size in seconds.
Download on App StoreRelated Guides & Tools
How to Measure Your Ring Size at Home
Complete home measurement techniques including detailed guides.
Ring Size Chart
Complete ring size reference for all major sizing systems.
US to UK Ring Size Converter
Convert between US and UK ring sizing systems instantly.
EU to US Ring Size Converter
Quickly convert European ring sizes to US sizes.
Ring Size Definition
Understanding ring sizing terminology and standards.
Comfort Fit Rings
Learn about comfort fit ring sizing and how it affects fit.
US Ring Sizes
Complete guide to United States ring sizing standards.
UK Ring Sizes
Understanding UK ring sizing conventions and standards.
More Resources
- Letter to Number Ring Size Converter — Convert letter-based UK sizes to numeric equivalents
- US vs UK Ring Sizes — Detailed comparison of sizing systems
- Complete Ring Size Guide — Comprehensive overview of all sizing information