Heart rate monitors are useful devices for monitoring or measuring pulse rate. With technological advancements, most of these gadgets come in small and wearable forms. Fitness enthusiasts can observe their workouts using a heart rate monitor. Keeping the pulse rate within a certain range while exercising can help you meet your fitness goals. Let’s look at the different types of heart rate monitors, the best options available, and their costs.

Types
The different types of heart rate monitors include:

• Chest-band devices
  Chest-band devices are one of the most common modern pulse trackers available. They have a strap to wrap around the chest. They use electrical sensors that measure tiny electrical impulses produced by the heart, similar to an ECG. Therefore, they are considered to provide more accurate heart rate readings. These devices respond to changes in pulse very quickly regardless of whether you are resting, running, or cycling.

• Wrist or forearm wearables
  Wrist or forearm wearables use optical heart-rate sensors that read the pulse at rest or walking. The sensors use LED light to track the pulse rate in the arteries. These wearables can be worn all day long, which helps provide more detailed heart rate tracking. They are, however, less reliable for high-intensity workouts.

• Smart rings
  Smart rings are sleek, wearable devices equipped with sensors that can measure your rate on the go. They have features similar to a fitness band or smartwatch. Smart rings need to be paired with an app to track their progress. They are, however, less reliable than other styles.

• Pulse oximeters
  A pulse oximeter is a small, clip-like device found mostly in pharmaceutical stores. It is attached to the fingertip and measures the oxygen saturation of blood and the heart rate in a non-invasive way. For personal use, there are portable, battery-powered pulse oximeters available.

• Smartwatches
  Smartwatches are convenient devices that also offer heart-tracking features. Though these are not as precise as chest-strap monitors, they are generally accurate.

Best options and design
The devices with more features often have a higher cost as they have quality sensors and provide accurate readings. Here are some of the best options for heart rate monitors:

• Garmin HRM-Pro
  This chest-strap device is one of the best heart rate monitors. Garmin-HRM Pro is suitable for land and water and can store up to 18 hours of data. Available for about $150, it is ideal for those serious about intensity training.

• Polar H9 heart rate sensor
  This budget-friendly chest-strap monitor is great for those who want some basic features along with compatibility with a wide array of third-party apps and devices. The cost of Polar H9 ranges between $50 to $100.

• Fitbit Luxe
  The Fitbit Luxe is a fitness tracker with a sleek minimal design, available in a price range between $100 and $150. Apart from heart rate, this model, like other Fitbit wearables, keeps track of steps, distance, and calories throughout the day. This device monitors both resting and active heart rates.

• Polar H10
  This waterproof chest strap device, available under $100, can accurately track heart rates and is a good option for athletes who want reliable readings. Some of the standout features of Polar H10 are that it can connect to two devices at a time, and its built-in memory can store data from a single workout.

• Wahoo Tickr Fit
  This armband, priced under $100, can be worn on the forearm or upper arm. Wahoo Tickr Fit uses optical heart rate technology to measure vital workout stats, including heart rate and calorie burn data, in real-time.

• Scosche Rhythm24
  Scosche Rhythm 24 is a waterproof armband heart rate monitor with a minimal one-button design. A standout feature of this device is its LED lights that indicate the heart rate zone eliminating the need to look at your phone. This armband is available for under $100.

• Oura Ring 3
  This lightweight titanium ring is one of the best devices for continuous heart rate monitoring. It is also a fitness and sleep tracker that provides insights into your health journey. Priced under $300, users have to purchase a monthly subscription to access its features.

• Apple Watch Series 8
  One of the most expensive smartwatches on the market, priced under $400, the Apple Watch Series 8 offers continuous heart rate monitoring. It can take reliable electrocardiograms (ECG), which is ideal for those with heart conditions. Other metrics that can be tracked include calories burned, steps, distance, blood oxygen levels, and menstrual cycle tracking.

Heart rate monitors can help you maximize your workout or training sessions by keeping a tab on your vitals. When buying this device, make sure you choose one that is accurate, easy to use, and comfortable to wear. Athletes should also ensure that the gadget is compatible with the equipment they are using and can be used to track a wide range of activities.