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Whether you’re powering through a home spin workout or training for an endurance event, a Bluetooth heart rate monitor provides valuable information. An accurate monitor can keep you within the appropriate intensity range for each workout for maximum results.
Planning a water-based workout? Consider one of these best waterproof Fitbits for swimming.
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1. Scosche Rhythm+ 2.0 Waterproof Heart Rate Monitor
Pros:- ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity
- Works with most fitness equipment, including Peloton bikes
- Can be comfortably worn in three locations
Cons:- Band only comes in one size
- Looks a bit dated
- Some competitors have better battery life
The second-generation Scosche Rhythm+ 2.0 features several upgrades over the popular original model, including a more comfortable and flexible strap. Unlike the previous version, which could only be mounted on the forearm, you can attach the Rhythm+ to your triceps, biceps and forearm. Between its user-friendly design and accurate technology, this is our favorite Bluetooth heart rate monitor for athletes.
Advanced optical sensors provide accurate readings for all skin tones. These biometric sensors continuously monitor your heart rate during your favorite activities, including running, cycling and swimming. Yes, you can safely swim laps while wearing this waterproof fitness tracker.
An upgraded rechargeable battery provides up to 24 hours of use, which is nearly three times as much as the previous version. You’ll receive a compact charger and charging cord to recharge nearly anywhere during the day.
Bluetooth and ANT+ technology connects your Rhythm+ 2.0 to a wide range of fitness equipment, including a Peloton bike. This watch works with over 200 popular fitness apps, including Wahoo Fitness, Runkeeper, MapMyFitness and more. Its breathable band keeps you comfortable throughout tough sweat sessions. A 100-foot wireless range gives you the flexibility to move around without your device.
Chest straps often require moisture to properly adhere to your skin. Fortunately, you don’t need to worry about licking this armband heart rate monitor. It will properly monitor your heart rate as soon as you secure it in place.
Fitness watches aren’t necessarily the most stylish accessories, but Scosche’s award-winning Rhythm+ 2.0 bridges that gap with its sleek, modern profile. The bands only come in one size, but you can choose between several fun colors.
Find more Scosche Rhythm+ Heart Rate Monitor Armband information and reviews here.
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2. Polar Verity Sense Optical Heart Rate Sensor
Pros:- Tracks pool swimming workouts
- Integrated memory with up to 600 hours of workout data
- Has a strap clip for swimming goggles
Cons:- Doesn't offer 5 kHz transmission
- Lacks a battery indicator
- Average battery life
Use the Polar Verity Sense to record up to 600 hours of heart rate-based training. Bluetooth Low Energy and ANT+ connectivity ensure seamless connectivity with many of your favorite connected devices.
This optical heart rate sensor is highly versatile and slides onto your arm for fast and efficient monitoring. You can also attach it to your temple using the google strap clip when swimming. Use Verity Sense with the FORM smart goggles or your favorite swimming goggles. Once the Bluetooth heart rate monitor is properly secured you can track your distance, pace, heart rate and swimming turns during pool-based workouts.
With innovative training analysis tools via the accompanying app, including progress reports, you can efficiently track your workout data and fitness. Polar Flow allows you to automatically sync your workout data to popular apps such as TrainingPeaks and Strava.
Its soft textile material is comfortable against the skin and can be tossed in the washing machine as needed. You can detach the sensor holder if necessary.
With a water resistance rating of up to 50m, Polar Verity is as safe for swimming as many of the best waterproof smartwatches for swimming.
If you’re torn between the Polar Verity Sense and Polar OH1, here are some noteworthy differences. Verity Sense offers an extra eight hours of battery life, for a total of 20 hours per charge. The 150-meter broadcast range is also twice as long as the 75-meter range on the OH1. Polar’s Verity Sense has 16MB memory, which is 12MB more than the OH1.
Find more Polar Verity Sense Optical Heart Rate Sensor information and reviews here.
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3. Garmin HRM-Dual
Pros:- ANT+ and Bluetooth Low Energy technology
- Works with compatible fitness equipment
- Removable and washable heart rate module
Cons:- Doesn't work with the Garmin Connect app
- Connectivity is limited to Garmin devices
- Not compatible with most older GPS units
There’s nothing fancy or flashy about the Garmin HRM-Dual, which is what makes it so appealing for athletes seeking a basic and dependable heart rate monitor. It’s designed for your favorite indoor, outdoor and online workouts.
This device connects with a broader range of devices thanks to ANT+ and Bluetooth Low Energy technology. In fact, you can use it with your favorite Garmin device and training apps such as Zwift for bike trainer workouts and ANT+ and Bluetooth-compatible equipment at the gym.
The HRM-Dual features a soft, comfortable and adjustable strap along with a removable and washable heart rate module. With a battery life of roughly 3.5 years, you don’t have to worry about frequently replacing the battery.
If you’re looking for a running watch with music, Garmin has several options. Many watches have onboard storage so that you can conveniently download songs and podcasts to your wrist for phone-free entertainment.
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4. Wahoo TICKR FIT Heart Rate Monitor
Pros:- Connects to GPS watches, bike computers and smartphones
- Easily record and upload your workout data
- Compatible with popular fitness apps such as Zwift, Peloton and Runtastic
Cons:- Not designed to specifically track running or cycling workouts
- Only comes in one color
- Some may find the forearm positioning a bit awkward
Get personalized heart rate training with the highly accurate Wahoo TICKR FIT. This Bluetooth heart rate monitor is compatible with iPhone and Android devices. It’s also the first TICKR with a rechargeable battery, rather than the coin cell battery found in the others.
All TICKR products have an IPX7 waterproof rating, which means that they are waterproof up to five feet. Additionally, each model comes with LED lights and dual-band technology for Bluetooth and ANT+ compatibility.
The TICKR FIT comes with the latest optical heart rate technology for accurate heart rate monitoring and calories burned. The rechargeable battery lasts up to 30 hours per charge. You can use the monitor with several popular fitness apps, including Strava, Wahoo Fitness, Runkeeper, Cyclemeter and more. It’s equally suited for indoor rides and outdoor workouts. Pair this Wahoo watch with your favorite GPS cycle computer to gain valuable performance insight.
The TICKR FIT is designed to be worn on the forearm and comes with a comfortable adjustable band for land and water-based workouts. You can find the band in small and large sizes.
The TICKR is the most basic unit, and offers accurate heart rate monitoring and calories burned for the most efficient workouts.
If you’re looking for a few more features, including the ability to track indoor spinning workouts and analyze your runs based on cadence, contact time with the ground and vertical oscillation, consider the TICKR X.
The TICKR RUN is a running-specific device that also captures key running metrics and can be used for outdoor and indoor workouts.
Find more Wahoo TICKR FIT Heart Rate Monitor information and reviews here.
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5. Powr Labs Heart Rate Monitor
Pros:- Dual-band Bluetooth 4.0 and ANT+ technology
- Works with many compatible apps
- Unlimited battery replacements
Cons:- Only pairs with Google Fit in Bluetooth mode
- Sensor is a bit bulky
- Shouldn't be worn when swimming
If you’re tired of trying to find a heart rate monitor that’s compatible with your smartphone or another connected device, consider the Powr Labs Heart Rate Monitor. It’s broadly compatible with a wide range of fitness equipment, including Peloton and other cycling bikes.
This heart rate monitor has dual-band Bluetooth 4.0 and ANT+ technology for seamless connectivity to your smartphone or other GPS devices. The strap is adjustable from 26 to 38 inches, allowing the chest heart rate monitor to fit a wider range of athletes.
This Bluetooth heart rate monitor is compatible with many different apps, including Heart Graph, Map My Ride, Map My Run, Garmin, Zwift, Polar Beat, Wahoo and more. However, it is only compatible with Google Fit in Bluetooth mode. While the monitor is sweat and water-resistant, it’s not recommended for use when swimming.
Find more Powr Labs Heart Rate Monitor information and reviews here.
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6. Dash Bluetooth Heart Rate Monitor
Pros:- Compatible with many third party apps
- Comfortable and convenient clip attachment
- Has ANT+ and Bluetooth technology
Cons:- Battery compartment can be tough to open
- ANT+ connection isn't as fast as Bluetooth
- Not compatible with a handful of apps
Save money and get accurate heart rate readings with the Dash Bluetooth Heart Rate Monitor. As you exercise, built-in sensors provide accurate feedback so that you can determine your unique heart rate zones and work within your capabilities.
This Bluetooth and ANT+ heart rate monitor works with many popular apps, including Endomondo, Wahoo RunFit, Polar Beat, MapMyRide, Runtastic, Sports Tracker and more. You can use your iOS or Android device to connect to this heart rate monitor.
In addition to its comfortable strap, the tracker features an easy-on and off clip for your convenience. It’s designed for a wide range of body types.
The Bluetooth heart rate monitor also tracks calories burned. It’s ideal for running, outdoor rides on your electric mountain bike, and other activities.
Find more Dash Bluetooth Heart Rate Monitor information and reviews here.
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7. CooSpo ANT+ & Bluetooth Heart Rate Monitor
Pros:- LED light notifications when Bluetooth device is connected or disconnected
- Compatible with Zwift, Strava, Wahoo, Peloton and other popular apps
- Works with GPS bike computers and compatible smartwatches
Cons:- Limited setup instructions
- Only works with select devices
- Some complain that the strap can chafe with longer activities
Connect the Coospo Heart Rate Monitor to your favorite fitness equipment and apps, including Zwift, Peloton and MapMyRide. It also works with DDP Yoga for your next hot yoga workout.
You can use this Bluetooth 4.0 and ANT+ heart rate monitor for real-time monitoring transmission to help you track your heart rate during workouts. It easily pairs with most smartphones, third-party apps, bike computers and fitness equipment. You can also use it with compatible smartwatches from Garmin, Suunto and Polar, as well as your GPS bike computer.
An enhanced wireless circuit provides more dependable real-time monitoring transmission. This chest strap is waterproof and comes with an LED indicator light to let you know that your Bluetooth device is connected or disconnected. Voice notification also keeps you updated on the device status.
Find more CooSpo ANT+ & Bluetooth Heart Rate Monitor information and reviews here.
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8. Garmin HRM-Tri Heart Rate Monitor
Pros:- Stores and records up to 20 hours of swim time
- Tracks advanced running metrics
- Small and lightweight design
Cons:- Prone to sliding when swimming
- Lacks real-time data transmission in the water
- Some find the clasp uncomfortable
The Garmin HRM-Tri Heart Rate Monitor is specifically designed for triathletes and measures your heart rate as you swim, bike and run. However, the HRM-Run is designed solely for running.
If you’re interested in comparing the Garmin HRM-Run vs. Tri, both watches measure six advanced running dynamics metrics, including vertical oscillation and ratio, stride length, cadence, ground contact time and more. Both watches are small and lightweight and have an easily adjustable strap for your comfort.
The HRM-Tri has soft edges and covered seams for added comfort in and out of the water. This heart rate monitor keeps tabs on your open water and pool swimming workouts, while the HRM-Run is exclusively for use on land. Tri records and stores up to 20 hours of heart rate data as you swim so that you can better keep tabs on your workouts and progress. Once you exit the water the watch sends real-time data to the watch.
In terms of battery life, this watch uses a replaceable CR2032 battery. You can expect the battery to last up to 10 months assuming an average use of one hour per day.
Find more Garmin HRM-Tri Heart Rate Monitor information and reviews here.
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9. moofit ANT+ Heart Rate Monitor Chest Strap
Pros:- Works with popular fitness apps such as Zwift and Peloton
- Fabric won't slip as you exercise
- Breathable material feels comfortable during workouts
Cons:- Not recommended for swimming
- Lacks an "on" indicator
- Strap may stretch over time
Simultaneous Bluetooth and ANT+ ensure more reliable connectivity to your favorite fitness apps, equipment and smartwatches. Use this moofit heart rate monitor for accurate results for running, cycling and other land-based workouts. It’s not recommended for swimming.
As with its popular speed and cadence sensors for your bike, this fitness accessory is compatible with mainstream apps such as Zwift and Peloton. It also works with Wahoo Fitness, Rouvy and Polar Beat, among others.
This strap’s soft material feels comfortable against the skin and won’t slide as you move. It’s also fully adjustable between 25 and 37 inches to fit different body types.
Instead of a rechargeable battery, this monitor has a replaceable CR2032 battery that lasts up to 12 months. You can easily replace the lithium-ion battery when needed.
Find more moofit ANT+ Heart Rate Monitor Chest Strap information and reviews here.
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10. SUUNTO Smart Heart Rate Sensor
Pros:- Compatible with other Bluetooth Smart devices and smartwatches
- Estimated battery life is 500 hours
- Smaller and more comfortable design
Cons:- Some complaints of inconsistent readings
- Only comes in one size
- Doesn't immediately wirelessly transmit data when swimming
Suunto’s Smart Sensor features Bluetooth for swimming and land-based workouts. It’s small and light, so you won’t feel weighed down as you exericse.
If you wear the sensor when swimming, the data will be stored during the workout then wirelessly transferred to the accompanying app or watch. The monitor is water-resistant up to 98 feet.
Once the sensor is paired with the app, you can analyze your performance and work on any necessary improvements. Not only is this monitor compatible with other Bluetooth Smart devices, it also works with a variety of smartwatches to help you track your training. The estimated battery life is roughly 500 hours.
Find more SUUNTO Smart Heart Rate Sensor information and reviews here.
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11. Polar H10 Heart Rate Monitor
Pros:- High-quality ECG measurements
- Works with most popular third-party apps
- Compatible with most smartwatches and sports watches
Cons:- Only stores data for one exercise
- Some wish the band was more comfortable
- Doesn’t work with some pieces of gym equipment
Polar is a well-respected brand name in the world of fitness technology, and it’s safe to say the H10 heart rate monitor lives up to lofty expectations. An updated design, featuring Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity, makes this heart rate monitor stand out from the rest.
The Polar H10 Heart Rate Sensor stands out for its improved electrodes and accurate heart rate monitoring along with a soft, comfortable material. Silicone dots prevent the material from slipping.
You can use the Polar H10 with popular fitness apps as well as gym equipment and other Bluetooth devices. It’s compatible with most of your favorite fitness watches, including sports and smartwatches from Apple, Suunto, Polar, Garmin and more. You can also use it with fitness apps such as Nike, Strava, and Polar Beat.
Built-in memory allows you to store heart rate data from a single training session. You can also transfer data to the Polar app. As an added bonus, you can keep the Polar sensor fresh with software updates. The Polar H10 doesn’t have the same functionality as a waterproof smartwatch, but it reliably transmits heart rate data in the water.
Find more Polar H10 Heart Rate Monitor information and reviews here.
What's the Best Heart Rate Monitor for Apple Watch?
Generally speaking, most Bluetooth heart rate monitor straps on the market today should be compatible with the Apple Watch. However, devices using older Bluetooth technology or purely ANT+ connectivity might not work. Many users report having the most success with devices that support Bluetooth 4.0 or Bluetooth Low Energy technology.
Our list includes Bluetooth Low Energy monitors such as the Garmin HRM-Dual, Kinetic Dual Band Heart Rate Monitor, Scosche Rhythm+ and the Wahoo TICKR.
The Powr Labs Heart Rate Monitor has Bluetooth 4.0 technology, as does the TACX Bluetooth Heart Rate Monitor.
What's the Best Heart Rate Monitor for Cycling?
The Kinetic Dual Band Heart Strap has ANT+ and Bluetooth Smart technology and will pair with most Garmin computers as well as popular cycling apps such as TrainerRoad, Rouvy, Kinetic Fit, Zwift, Cyclemeter and more.
The TACX Bluetooth Heart Rate Monitor also has dual Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity and works with many cycling devices such as head units and computers.
If you're a Garmin fan, consider the Garmin HRM-Dual monitor, which connects with most newer Garmin devices along with Zwift and other popular cycling apps.
What's the Best Wrist Heart Rate Monitor?
If you're not a fan of wearing a chest strap to monitor your heart rate, there are plenty of alternatives on the market. One option is the Polar Vantage M, which offers purely wrist-based heart rate monitoring.
Several bands sit a little farther up on your arm. We recommend the Wahoo TICKR FIT, Polar OH1 and the Scosche Rhythm+ band.
Which Is the Best Chest Strap Heart Rate Monitor?
If you're training for a marathon or have been instructed by a medical professional to keep a close watch on your heart rate during exercise, you'll want to go with the most accurate Bluetooth monitor chest strap.
A research study conducted at the Cleveland Clinic demonstrated that among the 50 volunteers included in the study, chest strap monitors continued to provide more accurate readings during workouts.
According to Dr. Marc Gillinov, Chairman of the Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery in the Sydell and Arnold Miller Family Heart, Vascular & Thoracic Institute, chest strap monitors measure the heart's electrical activity, wrist-based monitors only measure the blood volume in the tissue.
We've rounded up plenty of the best heart rate monitor chest straps for your consideration, including the Garmin HRM-Dual, Powr Labs heart rate monitor, Garmin HRM-Tri, Tacx Bluetooth heart rate monitor and the Polar 10.
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