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Knowing precise information — such as your current heart rate and calories burned — can make your workouts more meaningful. These top heart rate monitors stand out for a good reason, whether it’s because they’re compatible with your favorite fitness app or sync with the latest iPhone. Some monitors also track calories burned or distance covered. You’ll find a mix of well-known brands along with up-and-coming ones.

In the market for a Bluetooth heart rate monitor? You’ll want to seriously consider these models. Depending on what you’re looking for, you might opt for one that’s waterproof or machine washable, or that features an extended battery life. Some bands are designed to fit the chest while others slip seamlessly onto your wrist. Whether you’re interested in splurging a bit or are seeking a more affordable Bluetooth heart rate monitor, there’s a wide selection to choose from.

1. Scosche Rhythm+ Heart Rate Monitor Armband

The is one of the most stylish and best-performing heart rate monitors on the market today. If you have a hard time finding the right arm band for your wrist, you’ll love the included large and small straps. This is equipped with a direct chest strap replacement, which straps on easily and provides swift communication with any Bluetooth Smart device. Whether you already have a favorite fitness app or want to find one to match your fitness needs, the Rhythm+ works with many of the most popular apps on the market today.

Price: $79.00

Pros:

  • Long battery life
  • Compatible with most fitness apps
  • Available in many colors

Cons:

  • Pricey
  • Off button in awkward place
  • Adhesive material can lose effectiveness over time
A look at the best heart rate monitor watches on the market today.

2. Jarv Premium Bluetooth 4.0 Smart Heart Rate Monitor

If you’re looking for a that won’t burn through batteries, this Jarv model is a top choice. As an added bonus, you also don’t need a Bluetooth dongle to connect the device with your iPhone, iPad, or iPod. The Jarv does a little bit of everything, from tracking heart rate and distance to pace and average speed. You can use the heart rate monitor for a variety of activities, whether you’re heading out for a run, cycling, or walking.

Price: $24.95 (64 percent off MSRP)

Pros:

  • Multi-sport use
  • Good battery life
  • No Bluetooth dongle required

Cons:

  • Flimsy strap closure
  • Periodically loses heart rate during a workout
  • Band stretches over time
Modern style, a comfortable fit, and reliable performance makes these top five heart monitors stand out.

3. Polar H7 Bluetooth Smart Heart Rate Sensor

Polar is well-respected brand name in the world of fitness technology, and the H7 doesn’t disappoint. It’s a bit pricey, but the stands out for its reliability and consistent results. If you’re using a mobile training app, the will send accurate information to the app as quickly as possible. Another bonus is effortless communication between the monitor and compatible gym equipment thanks to GymLink. This monitor works with Android and iPhone devices.

Price: $49.14 – 62.65

Pros:

  • Android and iPhone compatible
  • Communicates with gym equipment
  • User-replaceable battery

Cons:

  • Pairing with device can be tricky
  • Sub-optimal Polar app (included)
  • Connectivity issues with some apps
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4. Wahoo TICKR Heart Rate Monitor for iPhone & Android

The Wahoo keeps you on top of your workouts with accurate heart rate monitoring and fitness tracking. You can even find out how many calories you’re burning while working out. Customers praise the Wahoo Fitness Burn & Burst training program — an 8-week program designed to help you burn fat while improving your performance. Dual technology compatibility lets the connect to GPS watches along with the latest iPhone and Android devices.

Price: $49.99

Pros:

  • Tracks fitness and calories burned
  • Includes training program
  • Dual technology compatibility

Cons:

  • Contacts need moisture to detect heart rate
  • Spotty connectivity issues
  • Chest strap a bit small for larger users
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5. Zephyr HxM BT Wireless Heart Rate Sensor

One feature that sets this Zephyr wireless apart from its competitors is the fact that it’s water resistant up to one meter. It’s also machine washable. The monitor pairs with Bluetooth to give you accurate information about your speed, heart rate, and distance. Both Android and Windows 8 phones pair nicely with this heart rate monitor. A rechargeable battery yields just over 24 hours of continuous use per charge. Another option is the  for iPhone and iPad devices.

Price: $64.95 (41 percent off MSRP)

Pros:

  • Water resistant
  • Machine washable
  • Pairs with Android and Windows 8 phones

Cons:

  • Lacks battery life indicator
  • Connectors must be routinely cleaned
  • Limited Zephyr app
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6. Garmin vívofit 2 Bundle with Heart Rate Monitor

A move bar with an audible alert provides constant reminders when needed to stay active throughout the day. Not only is the display always on, you can also turn the backlight on at any time to keep track of your stats. The device pairs with the included heart rate monitor chest strap to give you precise feedback during workouts. You can expect to get at least a year of battery life out of this . If you don’t need the latest model, check out the . The is also available.

Price: $74.99 (42 percent off MSRP)

Pros:

  • Move bar with audible alert
  • Backlit display
  • Includes heart rate monitor

Cons:

  • No wake up alarm
  • Lacks vibrating alerts
  • Some consumers experience syncing issues
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7. Polar M400 GPS Sports Watch & Activity Tracker

You’ll get more than a typical GPS with this . For example, it offers 24/7 activity guidance and keeps track of everything from distance, pace, and altitude during a workout to the number of calories burned during the day along with daily goals. Other features include a step counter and inactivity alert that reminds you to get moving. This heart rate monitor also monitors sleep time and quality.

Price: $174.00 (30 percent off MSRP)

Pros:

  • 24/7 activity tracking
  • Monitors pace, distance, altitude
  • Includes inactivity alert

Cons:

  • No vibration alert
  • Can take awhile to sync
  • Audible alert could be louder
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8. Mio FUSE Heart Rate Sleep Activity Tracker

 

This can be used to monitor heart rate and sleep. You can also use it to track the total number of steps taken throughout the day as well as calories burned and distance covered. The device features a customizable display and heart rate zones that can be easily configured. It’s also waterproof up to 100 feet, meaning you can take it for a swim without worrying about water damage. The FUSE features vibration alerts while the comes with sound alerts. If you want a simpler device, consider the .

Price: $109.95 (26 percent off MSRP)

Pros:

  • Doesn’t require a chest strap
  • Band comes in several sizes
  • Comfortable wrist band

Cons:

  • A bit bulky, especially on smaller wrists
  • Lacks a countdown function
  • Doesn’t have sound alerts
If your exercise routine could use a boost, a Polar heart rate monitor can help set you on the right track. There are models for every budget.

9. Suunto Ambit3 Run Sports Watch

Features of this heart rate monitor and multi-activity watch include a calorie counter, training program, fitness test, and target heart rate zone. The GPS watch boasts visual route navigation and waypoint along with route planning. You’ll never feel out of touch during a workout as smartphone connectivity lets you easily see messages and calls. The Smart Sensor heart rate monitor keeps track of your heart rate whether you’re running, cycling, or even swimming.

Price: $184.29 – $350.00

Pros:

  • GPS
  • Smartphone connectivity
  • Monitors heart rate on land and in water

Cons:

  • Initial learning curve
  • A tad heavy
  • Charging mechanism could be better
Need a new heart rate monitor? These Garmin models offer a blend of reliability and durability. There's something for just about any budget.

10. Garmin fenix 3

If you want a workout watch with a stylish appearance, it’s hard to overlook the Garmin fenix 3. This watch boasts a high-resolution Chroma display that’s easy to read even in the sunlight. It also has an Exo antenna for speedier and more accurate positioning than you’d get exclusively from GPS. Other highlights include a rechargeable battery and wireless connectivity through designated WiFi hot spots.

Price: $549.99

Pros:

  • Stylish
  • Exo antenna for faster and more accurate positioning
  • Rechargeable battery

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • Accuracy and distance tracking not always accurate
  • May periodically lose connection with phone
Looking for a new treadmill? This list includes something for every budget and fitness level.
Heavy, Inc. is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by linking to Amazon. Our product recommendations are guided solely by our editors. We have no relationship with manufacturers.
Kate Halse is a contributor to Heavy.com. Feel free to email her with comments, suggestions, etc. at kate.halse@heavy.com. April 10, 2016 5:54 pm

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