three of the best heart rate monitors

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Heart rate monitors measure your heart rate while working out, which may help you reach your target rate safely and efficiently without exceeding your maximum heart rate.

You can use heart rate data to adjust your intensity, maintain a pace, and boost your endurance. You may be able to sustain higher intensities for longer durations with a lower heart rate.

Some heart rate monitors only track your heart rate, while others give other metrics such as speed, distance, and breathing rate.

We have picked the best heart rate monitors, and we have some tips on how to choose the best one.

There are a number of factors to consider when buying a heart rate monitor. We considered a number of factors when rounding up the best heart rate monitors.

  • Functionality. Heart rate monitors can be worn as chest bands, armbands, or watches. We’ve included a range of options to help you find what works best for your needs.
  • Features. We included options for people looking for a basic heart rate monitor as well as athletes with specific needs. Plus, all these monitors have Bluetooth connectivity.
  • Price. We know that budgets can vary, which is why we included heart rate monitors at a variety of price points.
  • Customer reviews. We looked for options with high ratings and positive feedback.
  • Vetting. The heart rate monitors on our list have been vetted to ensure that they align with Healthline’s brand integrity standards and approach to well-being. You can read more about our vetting process.

A note on price

Devices with more features can cost more. The sensor quality and accuracy on higher priced heart rate monitors tend to be better.

Some devices require a monthly or yearly app subscription, so be sure to calculate cost accordingly.

Cost calculations

The general price ranges are indicated by dollar signs. Four dollar signs indicate a higher cost, whereas one dollar sign indicates the product is affordable.

The list prices range from $79 to $229, though this may vary depending on available discounts and where you shop.

The pricing guide.

  • $ = under $100
  • $$ = $100–$200
  • $$$ = over $200

Best overall heart rate monitor

Polar H10 Heart Rate Sensor

  • Price: $
  • Form: chest strap
  • Battery life: 400 hours

The H10 Heart Rate Sensor uses electrode sensors to track heart rate, making it an excellent option for serious athletes who want precise and reliable readings.

It’s also Healthline’s pick of the best heart rate monitor for the Peloton Bike.

You can transfer data from a single workout to the compatible app with the comfortable chest strap. The battery can last up to 400 hours.

“Some reviewers think that the sensor isn’t as accurate in the pool as it is in the water.”

Pros

  • Reliable heart rate tracking.
  • The training options are based on fitness level and goals.
  • The strap is machine-washable.

Cons

  • Some people have complaints about the internet.
  • Some reviews noted the short battery life.
  • It may be inaccurate when used underwater.
Shop now at Amazon

Best wrist heart rate monitor

Fitbit Luxe

  • Price: $$
  • Form: wrist fitness tracker
  • Battery life: 120 hours

If you want the features of a fitness tracker but prefer a less sporty style, the Fitbit Luxe is a great option.

“If you don’t want to wear a chest strap monitor and you want to wear a small device, it’s easy to wear. It’s a great option for swimmers.”

The device uses optical sensors to track heart rate and provides metrics.

It also measures sleep and stress levels and even lets you know if you’re better off swapping a workout for a recovery day.

The watch comes with a free 6-month subscription. After the trial, a membership costs $9.99 per month.

Pros

  • The battery lasts 5 days.
  • The design is lightweight and stylish.
  • Stress management tools are provided.

Cons

  • There was no built-in gps.
  • A small screen.
  • The monthly fee for the premium membership is $50.
Shop now at Amazon

Best armband heart rate monitor

Scosche Rhythm24 Waterproof Armband Heart Rate Monitor

  • Price: $
  • Form: armband
  • Battery life: 24 hours (continuous)

The Scosche Rhythm24 uses patented optical sensor technology to provide accurate heart rate data as well as running and cycling cadence.

The waterproof armband has a one-button design and a 24 hour battery.

It has a great feature that makes it stand out is the fact that it allows you to see your metrics without having to look at your phone.

Heart rate training zones are helpful because they let you know if you need to kick the intensity up a notch or tone it down if you’re pushing yourself too hard.

The internal memory of the armband can hold up to 13 hours of training time. You can use the RhythmSync app to store your data on hundreds of other platforms.

Pros

  • The battery life is 24 hours.
  • The indicator lights are powered by the light.
  • 5 different heart rate zones.

Cons

  • There are reports of issues with the internet.
  • Only handwash.
  • Some people think the device breaks easily.
Shop now at Amazon

Best heart rate monitor for swimming

Polar Verity Sense Optical Heart Rate Sensor

  • Price: $
  • Form: armband
  • Battery life: 20 hours

The Polar Verity Sense Optical Heart Rate Sensor comes with an innovative clip that allows you to attach the monitor to your goggles while swimming.

It also has a swim mode that tracks heart rate, pace, and distance.

The device has an optical sensor and a battery that lasts 20 hours.

It also allows you to record your data even if you are offline. The device has 16 megabytes of internal memory, which can be used to save up to 600 hours of workouts.

Pros

  • The design is comfortable and nonirritating.
  • The 20-hour battery is rechargeable.
  • can hold up to 600 hours of workout data

Cons

  • “Doesn’t show percentage”
  • “It’s difficult to use under long sleeves.”
Shop now at Amazon

Best heart rate monitor for running

Garmin HRM-Pro Heart Rate Monitor

  • Price: $$
  • Form: chest strap
  • Battery life: 12 months

The Garmin HRM-Pro uses an electrode pad sensor to track heart rate and provides detailed running metrics, including stride length, vertical ratio, and ground contact time.

The lightweight chest strap is used to send heart rate data.

If you are offline, the monitor will save up to 18 hours of data. This feature is useful during certain activities.

The HRM-Pro can connect to third-party fitness apps and equipment and transfer workout data to the Garmin app.

Pros

  • Provides metrics for running.
  • connects to many devices
  • Offline workouts are saved.

Cons

  • Only handwash.
  • replaceable battery is used
Shop now at Amazon

Best heart rate monitor for cycling

CooSpo H808S Chest Strap Heart Rate Monitor

  • Price: $
  • Form: chest strap
  • Battery life: 300 hours

The H808S Chest Strap Heart Rate Monitor has an indicator light that shows when the wireless is on and when it will detect your heart rate, giving you real-time data while you work out.

It is compatible with ANT+ and is easy to use. The monitor can be used with the CooSpoRide app, which records data from your rides and can automatically sync to the Strava running and cycling app.

The lightweight strap is a cinch to adjust and comfortable enough for long rides.

Pros

  • Good value.
  • It is lightweight and comfortable.
  • accurate readings

Cons

  • Reports say that the battery dies quickly.
  • The device stopped working after a few months.
  • Not waterproof, but CooSpo expects to add this feature soon.
Shop now at Amazon

Best multisport heart rate monitor

Suunto Smart Heart Rate Belt

  • Price: $
  • Form: chest strap
  • Battery life: 500 hours

The smart heart rate belt uses sensors to provide precise heart rate measurements.

The device has a recording feature and an internal memory function that saves up to 3.5 hours of fitness data, which syncs to compatible Suunto watches. It can also connect to third-party fitness apps and smartwatches like the Apple Watch.

“Even if you don’t have a watch, the belt can record data. It is a great choice for people who participate in activities that are not comfortable to wear watches.”

The battery lasts just shy of 21 days.

Pros

  • water-resistant
  • The design is small and lightweight.
  • Machine-washable.

Cons

  • The internal memory feature is required for the compatible watch.
  • There are reports of poor customer service.
Shop now at Amazon

Best smartwatch for heart rate monitoring

Fitbit Versa 3

  • Price: $$$
  • Form: wrist smartwatch
  • Battery life: 144 hours (12 hours with continuous GPS use)

The Fitbit Versa 3 monitors your heart rate and notifies you if you go above or below your heart rate target zone.

You can set up reminders to remind you to stay on schedule, and it tracks stress levels, steps, and sleep data.

You can see your workout metrics over time to check your progress.

“The watch has built-in gps and offers guided breathing sessions. The device allows you to answer calls and receive texts, and it connects to both Amazon’s and Google’s assistants.”

The free 6-month subscription to the premium service of the Fitbit is the same as the one offered for the Versa 3.

Pros

  • Tracks workout, sleep, and stress metrics.
  • There is a gps tracking service.
  • 6 days of battery life.

Cons

  • There are some complaints of issues with sync.
  • “There are reports that the side button doesn’t work.”
  • The monthly fee for the premium membership is $50.
Shop now at Amazon

Most comfortable heart rate monitor

Wahoo TICKR X Heart Rate Monitor

  • Price: $
  • Form: chest strap
  • Battery life: 500 hours

The Wahoo TICKR X uses integrated electrode sensors to track heart rate, indoor cycling cadence, treadmill distance, and pace.

Running data can be used to improve your form and technique.

You can use the internal memory to record up to 50 hours of training data, which can be uploaded to fitness apps.

The monitor has a battery life of about 21 days.

Several customers say the extra-wide chest strap is very comfortable. Reviewers often forget they are wearing it.

Pros

  • Excellent customer service.
  • When the data is not available, it is kept when offline.
  • The band is lightweight.

Cons

  • There are some complaints of inaccurate or erratic readings.
  • Some reviews mention issues with the internet.
Shop now at Amazon

There are many great heart rate monitors. It is important to think about which metrics you are interested in and what type of monitor you need to find one that is right for you.

For example, some monitors only keep an eye on heart rate, while others offer additional fitness metrics, such as stride length, cadence, or blood pressure.

Hats and earbuds are options for heart rate monitors, unlike a chest band, armband, or watch.

The most accurate chest straps use a tight pressure against your body.

In contrast, armbands and watches use optical sensors, which may be less precise but offer greater convenience and are more comfortable for all-day wear.

You should think about any additional features you might need. Some of the monitors on our list offer features for swimmers or cyclists, such as water resistance, gps navigation, and internal memory for offline workouts.

If you want to pair your data with your phone, you will want a monitor with ANT+ capabilities.

If you have subscription fees, make sure to factor them into your budget.

Here is a quick look at how our picks compare.

Price Form Battery life Metrics tracked
Polar H10 Heart Rate Sensor $ chest strap 400 hours • heart rate
Fitbit Luxe $$ wrist fitness tracker 120 hours • heart rate
• breathing rate
• steps
• calories burned
• sleep and stress levels
• skin temperature
Scosche Rhythm24 Waterproof Armband Heart Rate Monitor $ armband 24 hours (continuous) • heart rate
• running cadence and distance
• cycling cadence
Polar Verity Sense Optical Heart Rate Sensor $ armband 20 hours • heart rate
• swimming distance and pace
Garmin HRM-Pro Heart Rate Monitor $$ chest strap 12 months • cadence
• calories burned
• heart rate
• running dynamics
• steps
• stride
CooSpo H808S Chest Strap Heart Rate Monitor $ chest strap 300 hours • heart rate
Suunto Smart Heart Rate Belt $ chest strap 500 hours • heart rate
Fitbit Versa 3 $$$ watch 144 hours (12 hours with continuous GPS use) • heart rate
• breathing rate
• steps
• distance
• calories burned
• skin temperature
• sleep and stress levels
Wahoo TICKR X Heart Rate Monitor $ chest strap 500 hours • heart rate
• indoor cycling cadence
• treadmill distance and pace
• vertical oscillation
• ground contact time

What is the best way to track heart rate?

The best way to track your heart rate is with a chest strap heart rate monitor, because this type of monitor provides the most accurate results (1).

Wearable devices such as an armband, watch, or wrist fitness tracker can be used. Other options include machines for exercising and blood pressure machines.

While you can manually measure your heart rate by taking your pulse, a wearable device will provide more accurate results and allow you to track your heart rate over a set period or during an activity.

Some devices give you additional metrics that can help you understand your health.

Are wrist heart rate monitors accurate?

Wrist heart rate monitors are not as accurate as chest strap heart rate monitors, but they can still give you a good idea of your heart rate.

The optical sensors used in wrist-worn heart rate monitors can be affected by different types of movement, so the accuracy of your heart rate readings may depend on what kind of exercise you’re doing (1, 2).

A chest strap is a better option if you need highly accurate heart rate data.

Wrist heart rate monitors are more comfortable to wear throughout the day and can often have additional features such as a screen that displays the time, your heart rate, steps, and more.

What is a good resting heart rate?

According to the American Heart Association, a typical resting heart rate for adults is between 60 and 100 beats per minute (3).

Your resting heart rate is your heart rate when you are seated or lying down and are in a calm, relaxed state. A low resting heart rate is ideal and often associated with low blood pressure, a low body weight, and good physical fitness (3).

Older adults may have a higher resting heart rate, while children and people who are active or physically fit may have a lower resting heart rate. Their heart can keep a steady beat with less effort.

Other factors, such as medications, medical conditions, body size, and temperature, can also influence your resting heart rate.

Heart rate monitors can help you improve your fitness level and reach your goals by using optical sensors.

Some products only offer heart rate tracking, but others offer more detailed metrics and insights into other aspects of your health, such as mood, stress, and sleep.

Be sure to consider your budget and intended use when choosing a heart rate monitor, as there are many options.