As the world becomes more and more health-conscious, heart rate monitors have gained popularity as essential fitness tools. They allow users to track their heart rate during various activities such as running, cycling, and even swimming.
With numerous options available on the market, it can be confusing to find the perfect one to meet your needs.
In this article, we’ll look at the best heart rate monitors this year, breaking down the features of each and elaborating on their performance capabilities.
Table of Contents
Polar H10 Heart Rate Sensor: Best Overall Heart Monitor
- BUILT-IN MEMORY: Heart rate monitor stores 1 heart rate training session. Perfect for sports and activities where a wrist unit would be difficult to use.
- GoPro COMPATIBLE: Pair your H10 Polar heart rate sensor directly to the GoPro Hero 5 compatibility camera and overlay your heart rate data onto the recorded video.
- UPDATEABLE FIRMWARE: Heart rate monitor contains firmware updates that enhance the functionality.
- ENHANCED BATTERY LIFE: 400 hours of operation time on a user replaceable battery. Operating temperature – 10 °C to +50 °C / 14 °F to 122 °F
- COMFORTABLE FIT: Revised heart rate chest strap design provides the comfort and security needed when exercising.
As the upgraded version of the H9, the Polar H10 is designed for maximum precision and reliability. It is perfect for athletes participating in high-intensity workouts or extreme sports, as it offers enhanced accuracy and compatibility with gym equipment, smartwatches, and fitness apps.
One of the main improvements of the Polar H10 is its improved connectivity capabilities. With its Bluetooth and ANT+ support, you can easily connect to multiple devices simultaneously. This means you can use your phone, smartwatch, and gym equipment to monitor your heart rate without hassle.
Additionally, the H10 is waterproof up to 30 meters, making it suitable for swimmers and triathletes. You can wear it during your water workouts and easily track your heart rate.
The overall design and durability of the Polar H10 make it an attractive option for those who want versatile, robust, and reliable heart rate monitoring. The soft strap ensures that the device stays in place during intense workouts, and its battery life lasts up to 400 hours, so you don’t have to worry about recharging it frequently.
Furthermore, the Polar H10 is compatible with various fitness apps, including Polar Beat, Polar Flow, and Polar Club, making it a perfect choice for fitness enthusiasts who want to keep track of their progress.
Best Budget-Friendly Heart Rate Monitor: Polar H9
- POLAR PRESENTS A NEW AFFORDABLE HRM: When you’re looking for a reliable high quality heart rate monitor for your everyday sports, Polar H9 is a trusted choice of HR sensor that fulfills all your needs.
- GOLD STANDARD IN HEART RATE TRACKING: Built on decades of scientific research and development, recognized by both regular users and researchers around the globe, Polar is proud to be the Gold Standard in HR tracking.
- EXCELLENT CONNECTIVITY OPTIONS: Polar H9 connects to sports and smart watches (Polar, Garmin, Wahoo, Zwift, Peloton), activity trackers, gym equipment and other Bluetooth and ANT+ devices.
- NOW YOUR CARDIO WORKOUTS ARE MORE EFFECTIVE: From gym to indoor cycling via jogging and group exercise, track your heart rate and get an accurate calorie burn. Choose you size: XS-S: 20″ – 26″, M-XXL: 26” – 36”
- TURN YOUR PHONE INTO A FITNESS TRACKER: Enjoy endless connection possibilities to Polar Beat, Polar Club, Peloton, Nike+ Run Club and other popular fitness and training apps.
If you’re looking for a heart rate sensor that is both reliable and affordable, the Polar H9 is a perfect choice. This heart rate monitor is designed to cater to the needs of all types of athletes, from beginners to professionals.
The Polar H9 is equipped with Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity, so you can easily connect it to your smartphone, tablet, or other compatible devices. This makes it easy to track your heart rate data and monitor your progress over time.
Whether you’re running, cycling, or doing any other type of exercise, the Polar H9 can help you reach your fitness goals.
One of the standout features of the Polar H9 is its impressive battery life.
With up to 400 hours of operational time, you can use this heart rate monitor for weeks or months without worrying about charging or replacing the battery. This makes it an ideal choice for busy athletes who don’t have time to recharge their devices constantly.
The Polar H9 is also compatible with many popular fitness apps, including Strava, Nike Run Club, and Endomondo. This means you can easily sync your heart rate data with these apps and share your achievements with your community.
Overall, the Polar H9 is an excellent heart rate sensor that offers a range of features and benefits for athletes of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, this heart rate monitor can help you take your training to the next level and achieve your fitness goals.
Wahoo Tickr X Heart Rate Monitor: Best Heart Monitor For Runners
- CONNECT HEART RATE TO YOUR FAVORITE TRAINING APPS AND DEVICES – All the features of the regular TICKR + 50 Hours of onboard memory, Indoor cycling cadence, running analytics and Treadmill Mode when paired with the Wahoo Fitness App.
- HEART RATE, CALORIE, & TIME TRACKING – TICKR X measures vital workout metrics, including heart rate, calorie burn, and workout duration in real-time with the Wahoo Fitness app. These metrics can also be sent to compatible third-party apps that track these metrics.
- DUAL-BAND TECHNOLOGY – Equipped with ANT+ and bluetooth smart capabilities for a wireless connection to both smartphones and GPS devices at the same time or separately.
- VISIBLE CONNECTION – Two LED lights show connection status: searching (blue, slow blinking ), connecting (blue fast blinking), and reading heart rate (red blinking at current BPM).
- INTEGRATED CHEST STRAP DESIGN – The integrated sensor and strap design of the TICKR provides a secure connection and fit to prevent sliding and shifting while working out. At 1.7oz (48g) and 12.01mm thick, the TICKR is one of the lightest and slimmest heart rate monitor and strap combinations.
The Wahoo Tickr X Heart Rate Monitor is a top-of-the-line product with several impressive features.
First, it’s a sleek design that is stylish, and functional, with a comfortable strap that fits snugly around your chest while providing a decent amount of moisture-wicking properties.
But what sets the Tickr X apart is its advanced technology. With an internal memory that can store up to 50 hours of workout data, this heart rate monitor allows you to track your progress over time even if your smart devices are not within reach.
You can easily view your heart rate, calories burned, and other important metrics on the device and move your collected data to your smart devices anytime.
But the Tickr X goes beyond just basic tracking. It also features a Running Smoothness Index, which measures your running efficiency and provides insights on improving your form and performance.
This can be a game-changer for serious athletes who want to take their training to the next level.
The Running Smoothness Index tracks a runner’s Cadence, Ground Contact Time, and Vertical Oscillation which can be displayed in the Wahoo Fitness App.
In addition to its impressive features, the Tickr X is also highly compatible with a variety of fitness platforms. It also offers both Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity, making it easy to sync with your favorite apps and devices. This means you can easily track your progress and share your data with others, no matter what platform you prefer to use.
Overall, the Wahoo Tickr X Heart Rate Monitor is a must-have for anyone serious about their fitness goals. Its advanced features, sleek design, and compatibility with various platforms make it a standout product in the market.
Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting on your fitness journey, the Tickr X is sure to help you reach your goals and achieve your best possible performance.
Garmin HRM-Dual: The Best Option For Garmin Users
- HRM dual features a soft strap that is comfortable and adjustable
- Simply remove the heart rate module, and it’s washable, too
- Don’t worry about running out of juice
- The battery lasts for up to 3.5 years
The Garmin HRM-Dual is another excellent heart rate monitor designed for athletes who require consistent accuracy and performance.
This device offers dual transmission, meaning it can send heart rate data through both ANT+ and Bluetooth connections, allowing seamless integration with your favorite fitness devices and apps.
The HRM-Dual boasts a sturdy and comfortable strap, ensuring it remains in place during even the most intense workouts. We love that you can also easily wash the strap but simply removing the heart rate monitor module.
If you hate charging a heart rate monitor between uses or on a daily basis, the Garmin HRM-Dual has a battery that lasts up to 3.5 years, so you don’t have to worry about frequent charging.
The device is also water-resistant up to one meter, making it an excellent option for indoor and outdoor workouts, but not ideal for water sports enthusiasts.
The Garmin HRM-Dual is compatible with various Garmin devices, including the Forerunner and Fenix series, making it a perfect choice for Garmin users.
Additionally, the device is compatible with various fitness apps, including Strava, MyFitnessPal, and Endomondo, making it a versatile heart rate monitor for all fitness enthusiasts.
Peloton Heart Rate Band: Best Option For Peloton Machine And App Owners
- UNIVERSAL CONNECTIVITY – Designed to connect seamlessly to any Peloton product. The Peloton heart rate monitor uses Bluetooth wireless technology to give you in-moment progress updates and connects to your phone, tablet, and other fitness apps.
- INTERACTIVE HEART RATE TRACKING – One of the most interactive Peloton accessories with band vibrations and easy-to-read rainbow LED lights that show your heart rate zone at a glance, so you can optimize your intensity levels at the right time.
- COMFORTABLE FIT – The Peloton heart rate monitor is designed with a flexible forearm strap and hook and loop closures that allow you to adjust the positioning for maximum comfort.
- RECHARGEABLE BATTERY – Provides up to 10 hours of battery with fast-charge and a magnetic charger that correctly orients the Peloton heart rate monitor for seamless charging.
- SWEATPROOF DESIGN – IP67 waterproof—meaning the Peloton heart rate band can be submerged in up to one meter of water for up to 30 minutes. This makes it easy to clean in your sink and sweatproof for even your toughest workouts.
Designed primarily for the Peloton fitness platform users, the Peloton Heart Rate Band easily syncs with the Peloton app and provides accurate, real-time heart rate data.
Its sleek, minimalist design makes it comfortable to wear during workouts, with an easily adjustable strap for a secure fit.
While it may not offer the advanced features of other heart rate monitors, this band is perfect for Peloton users or those who want a simple yet efficient gadget for tracking their progress.
Our favorite part of this strap is the light-up LED that changes colors based on a user’s heart rate zone. This feature makes it easy to quickly glance at the monitor during an intense workout to understand the intensity of your cardiovascular state at any time.
The heart rate monitors long-lasting battery life which holds a 10-hour change, and Bluetooth connectivity makes it an excellent choice for keeping tabs on your heart rate during your favorite fitness classes.
The Peloton Heart Rate Band is compatible with various Peloton devices, including the Peloton Bike, Bike+, Tread, and Row, making it a perfect choice for Peloton users.
Additionally, the device is compatible with various fitness apps, including Apple Health and Google Fit, making it a versatile heart rate monitor for all fitness enthusiasts.
Check out our full Peloton Heart Rate band review for more info.
Polar OH1: Best Alternative To Polar Chest Straps
- Convenient – Embrace the freedom of Polar OH1’s unmatched diversity for use in countless different sports. This optical heart rate sensor offers an easy-to-use alternative to heart rate chest straps
- Versatile – pair it with your favorite smart phone, iPhone or Galaxy app, your Polar watch or other training device or broadcast your heart rate data in a group environment
- Built-in memory – store up to 200 hours of training data
- Updatable – heart rate monitor contains firmware updates that enhances its functionality
- Rechargeable – heart rate monitor lets you enjoy 12 hours of operating time on its rechargeable battery
The Polar OH1 is a versatile, optical heart rate monitor with accurate measurements that is designed to be worn on the upper or lower arm. The Polar OH1 features a comfortable, adjustable strap and six LED optical sensors, ensuring accurate heart rate measurement during workouts.
With its waterproof design and impressive 12-hour battery life, the Polar OH1 stands out as an excellent option for all types of athletes.
We love that this heart rate monitor can be worn during intense water workouts while easily tracking your heart rate.
This heart rate monitor is compatible with Bluetooth and ANT+ devices, and its updatable firmware makes it a strong competitor among the best of the year.
The Polar OH1 is compatible with various fitness apps, including Polar Beat, Polar Flow, and Polar Club, making it a perfect choice for fitness enthusiasts who want to keep track of their progress.
Additionally, the device is compatible with various gym equipment, including treadmills, ellipticals, and rowing machines, making it a versatile heart rate monitor for all fitness enthusiasts.
Scosche Rhythm 24: Best For Use With Hundreds Of Apps
- COMPREHENSIVE FITNESS TRACKING: The Scosche heart rate monitor doesn’t just measure heart rate; it records vital workout metrics like steps, calories burned, HRV, aerobic/anaerobic threshold, and more. Ideal for fitness enthusiasts and athletes.
- EXPANSIVE WORKOUT MEMORY: R24 boasts built-in memory for up to 13 hours of workout data. Seamlessly transfer using rapid ANT+ FIT file technology, 3x faster than Bluetooth. Ideal for data-hungry athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
- LONG-LASTING POWER: Rhythm 24 features an enduring rechargeable lithium-ion battery, ensuring you have 24 hours of continuous use on one charge. A must-have for fitness enthusiasts, athletes, and health-conscious individuals.
- OUTSTANDING DURABILITY & IP68 WATERPROOF RATING: R24 is tough and waterproof with an IP68 rating, perfect for intense workouts. Swim, run, or train outdoors without compromising its performance. Rely on Scosche quality for long-lasting performance.
- VERSATILE COMPATIBILITY: Connect seamlessly to popular fitness apps, gym equipment, and wearables via ANT+ and Bluetooth. From the home to gym or outdoor activities, trust Scosche for accurate and convenient heart rate monitoring.
Scosche Rhythm24 is a robust and versatile heart rate monitor worn on the arm, calf, or even clipped onto clothing. Its 24-hour battery life and advanced heart rate technology ensure accurate and reliable data tracking during various activities and sports.
Featuring a waterproof design and straightforward syncing process, the Scosche Rhythm24 easily connects to your favorite fitness apps, including Strava, Runkeeper, and MapMyRun. It also offers multi-color LED lights indicating your heart rate zone during exercise, helping you stay within your target range and optimize your workouts.
The Scosche Rhythm24 is compatible with various fitness apps, making it a perfect choice for fitness enthusiasts who want to keep track of their progress. Additionally, the device is compatible with various gym equipment, including treadmills, ellipticals, and rowing machines, making it a versatile heart rate monitor for all fitness enthusiasts.
Wahoo Tickr Fit
- CONNECT HEART RATE TO YOUR FAVORITE TRAINING APPS AND DEVICES – Proven technology delivers accurate heart rate and calories to the Wahoo Fitness and other popular training apps
- HEART RATE, CALORIE, & TIME TRACKING – TICKR FIT measures vital workout metrics, including heart rate, calorie burn, and workout duration in real-time with the Wahoo Fitness app. These metrics can also be sent to compatible third-party apps that track these metrics
- DUAL-BAND TECHNOLOGY – Equipped with ANT+ and bluetooth smart capabilities for a wireless connection to both smartphones and GPS devices
- VISIBLE CONNECTION – One LED light shows visual confirmation of the TICKR connection status via Bluetooth and / or ANT+: searching for a connections, connecting, and reading heart rate
- ADVANCED PERFORMANCE MATERIAL STRAP – Designed to fit comfortably around your arm, yet fit securely during intense activity. Two adjustable bands included (Small and large)
The Wahoo Tickr Fit is a highly accurate, forearm-worn heart rate monitor that features optical sensors and Bluetooth/ANT+ connectivity. Its sleek, comfortable design ensures a secure fit during your workouts, minimizing any potential interruptions.
With up to 30 hours of battery life and the ability to integrate with over 50 smartphone apps, the Wahoo Tickr Fit is perfect for athletes looking for a simple yet effective way to track their heart rate.
Its IPX7 water resistance makes it suitable for various environments and activities, from running to cycling, ensuring you’re covered no matter your workout routine.
The Wahoo Tickr Fit is compatible with various fitness apps, including Wahoo Fitness, Strava, and Runkeeper, making it a perfect choice for fitness enthusiasts who want to keep track of their progress.
Additionally, the device is compatible with various gym equipment, including treadmills, ellipticals, and rowing machines, making it a versatile heart rate monitor for all fitness enthusiasts.
As the fitness world continues to evolve, so does the need for reliable and accurate heart rate monitoring.
Whether you’re a professional athlete, fitness enthusiast, or just starting in your health journey, the best heart rate monitors of the year will help you make informed decisions about your workouts, optimize your training, and ultimately achieve your fitness goals.
