Top 10 best heart rate monitors: key characteristics, recommendations for choosing, reviews

The heart rate monitor is considered an important attribute of professional athletes and people who monitor their health and shape. Exercise, jogging, fitness, or stationary bike exercise will be much more effective and safer if you have a heart rate monitor close at hand. Gadgets are also indispensable for the elderly and those with heart problems.

To facilitate the selection of a heart rate monitor, an overview of the most functional devices has been compiled. Among the models you can find both budget products and more expensive devices. When compiling the list, the purpose of the gadgets, their advantages and disadvantages, expert opinions and user reviews were taken into account.

Rating TOP 10 best heart rate monitors

Before compiling a list of the most popular heart rate monitors, a market analysis of the best devices was carried out. In the list, readers will be able to compare the most functional devices, study their key characteristics and choose the appropriate model. The top heart rate monitors looks like this:

Polar H10 M-XXL

Comfortable and high-quality heart rate monitor with chest indicator, which is characterized by accurate measurement. The device is presented in the form of a belt, which is fixed on the chest with a reliable buckle. It is considered one of the lightest heart rate monitors, its weight does not exceed 26 g. There is a certain amount of built-in memory under the body of the device. The manufacturer assures that the gadget will last for 30 hours of workout recording. With such a product, you can dive under water. The hull withstands maximum pressure at a depth of 30 m.

A feature of such a heart rate monitor will be support for data transfer using GymLink technology. In the process of its application, it is possible to make accurate heart rate measurements while swimming. This is also facilitated by the presence of a dense strap that does not move in water with sudden movements. The resulting information is stored in the Polar Beat and Flow apps, and the device is powered by a battery. It should be noted that in comparison with similar products, the operating period of this is much longer.

I have been using a high-quality device for about 6 months. I have never failed during the period of jogging. There are no traces of corrosion or other deposits on the product. I still have not changed the battery. The connection with the phone is not interrupted during the entire workout. Recommend.

Sigma PC 15.11

A reliable and stylish heart rate monitor that is suitable for anyone doing fitness, running exercises or just looking to lose weight. The device comes with an analogue external indicator that is firmly fixed to the chest. The device is made of hypoallergenic rubber with ventilation holes, which eliminates intense sweating. The gadget has a screen that is made of impact-resistant plastic. The diameter of the display is 2.6 cm, which, together with its convexity and large numbers, will simplify the perception of information.

The device offers 15 options, among which there is a determination of the maximum and average heart rate, a calorie counter, a determiner of the number of laps. There is also a workout manager to help you optimize your sports activities. It is possible to set the upper and lower heart rate thresholds, which helps to maintain the set pace. There is a backlight, which makes it possible to use the heart rate monitor even at night.The gadget is in close contact with the skin, which increases the accuracy of the readings. The kit also comes with a battery that will last for 1 year with constant use.

A quality heart rate monitor for those who go in for sports. The display is bright and informative, there is a stopwatch and other useful things for practice. For this price, I think the best option. I advise you to buy.

Beurer PM235

Comfortable and secure chest strap that is capable of monitoring your heart rate with ECG precision. At the same time, all information from the heart rate monitor without the use of any adapters will be transmitted to various fitness apps. Information can be easily displayed on the phone screen.

The device is capable of transmitting a signal in 2 forms: analog and using Bluetooth. Bluetooth low energy will be responsible for the transfer of such information. The gadget is compatible with Android 4.3 and iPhone 4s. The sound indicator will warn about exceeding the permissible loads and reaching the maximum heart rate. Power consumption and other characteristics will be displayed on the screen. The list of indications will depend on the application used. Also, the design provides for the option of an alarm clock and a stopwatch.

The device works perfectly with all devices. The device is compact enough and does not interfere with classes. I also note that the product simultaneously transmits data via Bluetooth and an analog channel. Recommend.

Wahoo TICKR

A fairly convenient and lightweight device that allows you to monitor your heart rate when doing fitness and sports. Has a stylish and eye-catching design, suitable for users of any gender and age. The body of the device is protected from moisture and dust penetration, which makes it optional for various sports. The CR2032 battery will provide the product for one year in daily use.

A characteristic feature of the gadget will be expanded RAM for recording readings. The model is compatible with various fitness applications installed on the phone and instantly displays information about the speed of movement, calories burned, heart rate. The heart rate monitor has a built-in memory for up to 16 hours of information that can be viewed in the app. At this time, movements are analyzed, pulsation is noted, recommendations are made in order to improve the training.

A simple device that is easy to use. The strap is comfortable, there are LED indicators. Supports almost all popular applications. The readings do not jump, the connection is not lost. Happy with the purchase.

Sigma PC 26.14

A compact and ergonomic device that is ideal for experienced athletes and for casual enthusiasts of an active lifestyle. The device is equipped with a comfortable strap, breathable and made of safe materials. The device can be operated by means of 5 ergonomic keys. Only one of them is often used for setting, and the rest are suitable for changing parameters and starting / ending workouts.

The heart rate monitor can accurately calculate your current, average and maximum heart rate. In addition, with the help of such a product, it is possible to calculate the calories burned. The gadget is not suitable for swimming, but there is a sufficient degree of moisture protection here, therefore, if the device is exposed to rain, it will not break. The power source is a battery, which will last for at least 1 year of operation, the set settings will be retained even if the battery is replaced.

Excellent heart rate monitor. Accurately measures the pulse throughout the entire training process. The device has good functionality, it is quite convenient to operate it. Power is supplied by batteries, they last about six months, they are easy to replace. I advise.

Suunto Smart Sensor

Convenient heart rate monitor that is compatible with Android and iOS OS and supports Bluetooth Smart. The product is distinguished by lightness and ease of use, does not cause inconvenience when wearing and is used at various temperature conditions. The device does not allow moisture to pass through, it is permissible to use it in the pool. The gadget has established itself as a device with long-term operation without additional battery power.

This product has a comfortable strap that does not interfere during workouts. At the same time, its length can be easily adjusted. Moisture protection here is implemented so that with the indicator you can go under water up to 30 m.But it should be taken into account that at a depth the tightness of the device to the body may be insufficient for accurate measurements, therefore such a model will not impress divers. The heart rate monitor is started and turned off using a smartphone.

Convenient device. Fits perfectly to the body, wear when jogging. The heart rate monitor is light enough, does not interfere at all. The smartphone automatically finds the device when it detects the heart rate monitor. I am satisfied with the purchase, I advise you to purchase.

Polar OH1

A lightweight and accurate heart rate monitor that is used to measure the heart rate on the forearm. The device is almost not felt during wearing, regardless of the user's activity. The product is equipped with a flexible and secure strap for attachment to the shoulder or forearm. All information will be transmitted to the phone screen or smart watch via ANT + channel or via Bluetooth. The gadget seamlessly syncs with PCs and smartphones to display workout readings.

It can be used in water, it is not afraid of moisture, but the inability to display readings online will become a nuance. All information about physical activity will be saved in the internal memory of the device.The integrated memory will allow you to work with the device for about 200 hours of training, while the product's charge will be kept for 12 hours. The set includes a clip for swimming goggles.

High quality sports bracelet. I would like to note the reliability of the measurements, the high quality of the material used. The device has a high degree of moisture protection. The instruction is in Russian.

Sigma iD.GO

A quality wrist heart rate monitor designed directly to track your workouts. The device is made in the form of a rectangular wristwatch, 4 colors are available for selection. The display will show the heart rate and the current time. The case and strap are made of lightweight and durable plastic that does not corrode. The complete set includes a chest analog indicator and an elastic strap.

The device is waterproof, it is possible to swim and dive to a depth of 30 m with it. The heart rate monitor can also be used when parachuting, while running, while cycling. The stopwatch option will be useful for runners and swimmers.

Excellent heart rate monitor. The build quality is high, the heart rate is accurate, and the plastic doesn't stink. The bracelet sits comfortably on the hand, does not interfere with strength and functional training. Of the auxiliary functions, I will single out the presence of a stopwatch. I advise.

Wahoo TICKR X

A handy device that monitors the work of the heart during exercise. The product also sends information via ANT + and Bluetooth to any device, be it an Android / iOS smartphone or a fitness tracker. The product has a built-in memory for up to 16 hours of information that can be viewed in the application. The gadget can save data on calories burned, heart rate, training duration and other information.

IPX7 rated case helps keep the product from water and sweat. A CR2032 battery will keep your device running for a year in daily use. The heart rate monitor records physical activity and intensity of training, builds programs to eliminate injuries. A replaceable battery is included in the package.

A good running heart rate monitor with accurate measurements and useful extras. The pulse shows correctly, the data is quickly determined even in interval training. I am happy with the purchase, I like it in everything.

Beurer PM25

An ergonomic heart rate monitor designed for fitness and sports. Such a device guarantees accurate heart rate measurement. The transfer of information from the sensor occurs in analog mode. The heart rate limits for training will be customizable. An acoustic signal sounds when you go outside the training zone.

In addition to monitoring the heart rate, the product shows the average and maximum heart rate, the period of being below or above the training area. The gadget also calculates energy expenditure and fat burning. The product is waterproof to a depth of 30 m. It can be used while swimming, but without transmitting heart rate readings. The design provides a stopwatch and a countdown timer.

Reliable heart rate monitor for the price. I use it to control my heart rate while running on a treadmill. For the year I have never let down. I will highlight the presence of a stopwatch. The backlight is bright enough. Recommend.

Top Heart Rate Monitor Manufacturers

It is difficult enough to find an affordable and high quality heart rate monitor to monitor your heart rate. To choose a high-quality device, you should buy products from well-known brands that have gained popularity. According to user reviews, the most popular brands are:

• Polar. Finnish brand, a leader in the production of quality electronics, especially heart monitors. For more than 30 years under this brand, heart rate monitors have been produced, for the manufacture of which all experience in sports, physiology and electronics was used.
• Suunto. A brand from Finland that produces quality heart rate monitors. The production is focused on the manufacture of sports equipment and measuring devices for tourists and divers.
• Sigma SPORT. A company from Germany that has gained popularity among consumers. The developer has been releasing heart rate monitors for a long time, and the latest models support Bluetooth and are compatible with the iPhone.
• Beurer. The company from Germany, which is deservedly considered one of the leaders in the production of goods for health and sports. Her models are distinguished by high quality and affordable prices.
• Wahoo Fitness. An American brand that makes equipment for athletes, including cycling computers and functional heart rate monitors. Models differ in quality and ease of use.
• Garmin. A trade mark from the USA that specializes in the production of high-quality and technologically advanced automotive, aviation, marine, tourist and sports equipment. The products are quite popular in the USA and abroad.
• Puma. A well-known company that enjoys great popularity among consumers. In addition to high-quality sportswear, the developer produces functional models of heart rate monitors at an affordable price.

Tips for choosing a heart rate monitor

Before purchasing a suitable heart rate monitor, you should familiarize yourself with the selection criteria for your devices. The most important parameters:

• View. There are sports and medical heart rate monitors. The former are intended to control the heart rate in athletes, they are used in domestic conditions. In medical institutions, pulse oximeters are used, which measure 2 indicators - heart rate and blood oxygen concentration.
• The type of information transfer. Analog heart rate monitors operate through their own communication channel, while digital ones use Bluetooth.
• Heart rate sensor. Many devices are equipped with an outdoor sensor, also called a chest strap. It is located in the area of ​​the ribs and transmits data to the smartphone using a radio signal. Less informative, but more practical is the internal sensor.It supplies heart rate information using sensors.
• Place of wearing. There are models with wrist, chest and finger fastening. The first digits display the data provided by the sensor. The chest heart rate monitor has a wide strap that attaches to your ribs. The finger-mounted device has compact dimensions, low weight, and wide functionality.