8 Best Heart Rate Monitors of 2024: Expert Reviews, Top Picks, and Buying Guide

Monitoring your heart rate is no longer just for elite athletes or medical professionals—today, it’s a vital tool for anyone serious about their health and fitness journey. But with the explosion of wearable technology, choosing the right heart rate monitor can be overwhelming. This guide, backed by cardiologists and fitness experts, highlights the best heart rate monitors for 2024, including rings, watches, chest straps, and more, to help you make an informed decision for your workout and wellness needs.

Why Use a Heart Rate Monitor?

Heart rate monitors give real-time feedback, helping you understand your training intensity, optimize workouts, recover better, and even manage stress. Whether you’re walking, running, strength training or monitoring your heart health, a reliable heart rate monitor ensures you’re getting the most out of every session. With advanced trackers now offering continuous heart rate, blood oxygen, sleep, and even ECG monitoring, finding the right tech can lead to safer, more productive exercise and smarter health routines.

How We Selected the Best Heart Rate Monitors

Our top picks were chosen based on recommendations from cardiologists, hands-on product testing, expert and verified user reviews, comfort, accuracy, and additional features. We considered a range of devices—smart rings, wearables, chest straps, and watches—to suit various lifestyles and budgets.

• Accuracy: Prioritized models with clinically validated sensors or positive real-world testing.
• Comfort and design: Selected options that are comfortable for daily or overnight wear.
• Battery life: Devices that charge quickly and last several days to months.
• Compatibility: Supports various platforms (iOS, Android, third-party fitness apps, etc.).
• Extra features: Such as blood oxygen, sleep tracking, ECG, or comprehensive fitness data.

Best Heart Rate Monitors: Our Top Picks for 2024

Below are detailed reviews of the best heart rate monitors available in 2024, along with their standout features and unique benefits.

1. PREVENTION circul+ Smart Ring by Prevention

• Type: Smart Ring
• Best for: All-in-one health tracking with high accuracy
• Battery life: 15 hours
• Price: $$$

The PREVENTION circul+ Smart Ring is a collaboration between Prevention and BodiMetrics, engineered for users who want precise health tracking in a discreet, comfortable form. Its distinguishing feature is being the only wearable pulse oximeter ring validated across all skin tones, providing continuous monitoring of heart rate, blood oxygen (SpO2), finger temperature, heart rate variability (HRV), and blood pressure. The ring also records a single-lead ECG. Its patented design ensures sensors remain in optimal contact with your finger, boosting measurement accuracy.

The Circul+ is available in three sizes and constructed from stainless steel and durable plastics. It elegantly bridges the gap between fitness accessory and medical-grade tool, making it suitable for tech-forward users, those monitoring chronic conditions, and anyone who dislikes wrist-worn devices.

• Pros:
  • Extensive health metrics tracked (heart rate, SpO2, blood pressure, ECG, temperature)
  • Modeled for comfort; fits most finger sizes
  • Continuous, accurate monitoring
• Cons:
  • Higher cost than most wrist-based or strap-based options
  • Shorter battery life due to its continuous monitoring

2. Oura Ring Generation 3

• Type: Smart Ring
• Best for: Sleep tracking with heart rate monitoring
• Battery life: 7 days
• Price: $$$

The Oura Ring Generation 3 is a stylish and comfortable alternative to wristwear, particularly lauded by experts for its exceptional sleep-tracking capabilities and discreet design. In addition to continuous heart rate and SpO2 monitoring, the Oura Ring offers temperature tracking, respiratory rate, and heart rate variability measurements.

Ideal for users who prioritize overnight monitoring or find wrist-worn devices cumbersome, the Oura Ring delivers a comprehensive health snapshot without compromising comfort or aesthetics. Its seven-day battery life also impresses for an advanced wearable.

• Pros:
  • Unobtrusive, ideal for sleep
  • Longer battery life for a smart ring
  • Tracks broad health metrics (activity, readiness, sleep cycles)
• Cons:
  • Pricier option
  • No on-device display (data viewed via app)

3. Samsung Electronics Galaxy Watch 4

• Type: Smart Watch
• Best for: Android users seeking a feature-rich smartwatch
• Battery life: Up to 40 hours
• Price: $$

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 remains a highly-rated all-around smartwatch that delivers accurate wrist-based heart rate monitoring, along with advanced features like ECG recording, blood oxygen monitoring, body composition analysis, robust workout tracking, and seamless smartphone integration. The refined design, rotating bezel, and vibrant display make it a pleasure to wear for both fitness and daily life. While the battery life isn’t as long as some chest straps or rings, it’s an excellent choice for Android users seeking comprehensive wellness tracking and smart features.

• Pros:
  • Comprehensive health tracking, including ECG and SpO2
  • Sleek, high-contrast AMOLED display
  • Comfortable for all-day wear
• Cons:
  • Battery may need daily charging under heavy use
  • Most features require connection to Android (less seamless with iOS)

4. Fitbit Luxe Fitness and Wellness Tracker

• Type: Fitness Band
• Best for: Sleek, everyday wearability and basic heart rate monitoring
• Battery life: 5 days
• Price: $

The Fitbit Luxe offers accurate heart rate tracking in a slender, jewelry-inspired form. It’s perfect for style-conscious users who want reliable activity, sleep, and wellness data without a bulky or sporty look. While it doesn’t offer ECG or blood pressure features, Luxe excels in comfort, automatic workout detection, and light sleep insights, making it great for daily use, step counting, and overall activity monitoring.

• Pros:
  • Ultra-thin, stylish profile
  • Auto workout detection and sleep tracking
  • Affordable price point
• Cons:
  • Screen is small for notifications or workout metrics
  • Heart rate readings may skip during intense movement

5. POLAR H9 Heart Rate Sensor

• Type: Chest Strap
• Best for: Fitness enthusiasts demanding top accuracy
• Battery life: 400 hours
• Price: $$

The POLAR H9 is a classic chest-strap heart rate monitor renowned for its accuracy and compatibility with popular smartwatches and fitness apps via Bluetooth and ANT+. The soft, machine-washable strap enhances comfort, and the device’s long battery life means fewer interruptions to your workout routine. For high-intensity interval training, cycling, and running, chest straps like the H9 remain the gold standard for real-time, gap-free heart rate data.

• Pros:
  • Industry-leading heart rate accuracy
  • Pairs easily with watches and apps
  • Long-lasting battery (replaceable)
• Cons:
  • Requires chest placement; not ideal for overnight or continuous wear
  • Relies on lithium batteries

6. Garmin HRM-PRO Premium Heart Rate Strap

• Type: Chest Strap
• Best for: Athletes and runners needing advanced metrics
• Battery life: 1 year
• Price: $$$

The Garmin HRM-PRO combines pinpoint heart rate accuracy with advanced running dynamics, such as stride length, vertical ratio, and ground contact time. Its lightweight profile and reliable connectivity to Bluetooth Smart technology make it a favorite among serious runners and triathletes. It’s also durable for intense sessions, and the replaceable battery lasts up to a year.

• Pros:
  • Expert-recommended for reliability
  • Delivers detailed running analytics
  • Broad device and app compatibility
• Cons:
  • Requires a chest strap, which may be less comfortable for some
  • Not designed for sleep tracking or casual all-day use

7. Apple Watch Series 9

• Type: Smart Watch
• Best for: Apple users seeking seamless integration
• Battery life: Up to 18 hours
• Price: $$$

Apple Watch Series 9 builds on its predecessor’s fitness reputation with continuous heart rate monitoring, ECG, blood oxygen readings, fall detection, and activity tracking—all deeply integrated with iOS. The vivid display, intuitive interface, and endless band customization make it a health accessory as much as a tech fashion statement. While battery life requires daily charging, its depth of health features and usability for iPhone users is unmatched.

• Pros:
  • Comprehensive health and safety features
  • Smooth sync with iPhone and Apple Health
  • Apps for every activity—fitness, meditation, sleep
• Cons:
  • Battery needs charging daily or overnight
  • Best experience limited to Apple device owners

8. Garmin Vivosmart 5

• Type: Fitness Tracker
• Best for: Simple, small, all-day wear
• Battery life: 7 days
• Price: $

Garmin’s Vivosmart 5 stands out for users seeking a streamlined, wrist-based tracker that’s light, slim, and easy to wear 24/7. In addition to continuous heart rate, it offers blood oxygen and sleep monitoring. It’s straightforward, affordable, and widely compatible—great for users new to fitness wearables or anyone seeking something less tech-heavy than a smartwatch.

• Pros:
  • Small, discreet design
  • Tracks basic fitness and health stats
  • Accessible price
• Cons:
  • Limited smart features compared to watches
  • Screen may be hard to read under strong sunlight

Comparison Table: At a Glance

How to Choose the Right Heart Rate Monitor

• Preferred tracking style: Choose between rings, wristbands/watch, and chest straps based on comfort and data needs.
• Health metrics needed: Opt for devices providing the features you’ll actually use (e.g., ECG, SpO2, HRV, GPS).
• Compatibility: Ensure it syncs with your phone or fitness platform.
• Battery life: Consider how often you’re ready to charge or replace batteries.
• Budget: Options range from affordable bands to investment-grade smart rings and watches.
• Intended use: For training, choose accuracy-first chest straps. For healthy lifestyle, rings and trackers offer convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Are heart rate monitors accurate?

A: Chest strap monitors such as the POLAR H9 and Garmin HRM-PRO are regarded as the gold standard for heart rate accuracy. Wrist and ring-based monitors are excellent for everyday health tracking but may show slight discrepancies during high movement workouts or if not fitted properly.

Q: Can you use a heart rate monitor for medical diagnosis?

A: Most heart rate monitors are not certified medical devices and should not replace professional medical equipment or medical advice. However, devices like the PREVENTION circul+ Smart Ring offer features validated for accuracy and can help monitor trends that you can discuss with your healthcare provider.

Q: Chest strap vs. wrist vs. ring—what’s best for me?

• Chest straps: Best for exercise accuracy—favored by athletes and those needing reliable, real-time workout metrics.
• Wrist-based: Comfortable, easy for all-day wear, with smartwatch and fitness tracker integration—great for casual and moderate fitness users.
• Rings: Discrete, comfortable for sleep and long-term wear—ideal for health tracking without a wrist device.

Q: How often should I charge my heart rate monitor?

A: Battery life varies from daily charging (Apple Watch) to up to a week (Oura Ring, Garmin Vivosmart 5), or months to a year for chest straps (POLAR H9, Garmin HRM-PRO). Choose what best suits your charging preferences.

Q: Do you need a smartphone for heart rate monitors?

A: Most modern heart rate monitors pair with smartphones for data display and analysis. Some smartwatches offer limited on-device viewing, while chest straps often require a watch or phone for real-time visualization.

Expert Tips for Getting the Most from Your Heart Rate Monitor

• Ensure any strap (chest or wrist) is snug but not constricting for the most accurate sensor readings.
• Periodic cleaning (machine-washable straps, wiping down rings/watches) maintains comfort and sensor accuracy.
• Check for software updates to your device for the latest features and bug fixes.
• Consult your doctor before relying on heart rate monitors to manage existing medical conditions.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best heart rate monitor for your needs is a personal decision, balancing comfort, accuracy, and features. Whether you prefer a sleek smart ring, a fashion-forward watch, or the steadfast precision of a chest strap, today’s devices offer health insights that help you train smarter and live healthier. Always consult reviews, assess feature priorities, and find a model that inspires you to move, monitor, and thrive.

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medha deb

 

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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