The 6 Best Blood Pressure Monitors, According to Cardiologists

Pros

• Holds readings for up to two people
• Large, well-lit display
• Includes six-year warranty
• Multiple consecutive readings for accuracy

Cons

• Might have more features than you need

“The best device on the market comes from Omron, which has been used in BP clinical trials and is widely considered the best,” says Allen J. Taylor M.D., the Chairman of Cardiology at MedStar Heart and Vascular Institute. And he isn’t the only one to endorse it—in fact, all our experts recommended this device from Omron for its accuracy and ease of use. Among its notable features is its three consecutive readings in two minutes of wear to give you the truest result possible. It also stores readings, allowing you to compare data between days and signaling when your average is off and can alert you of early A-Fib signs and irregular rhythms. You can read all its health data on the Omron app and easily share the monitor with a partner or family member, as it will hold information for two separate users.

Credit: Aile

Pros

• USB and battery-powered
• Lightweight
• Easy to use

Cons

• Some users say it could be more accurate

It takes 30 seconds to get an accurate reading from this monitor, that comes calibrated and ready-to-use right out of the box. The basic design and multiple user compatibility make it ideal for family use, and a color-coded key makes it easy to interpret your levels. “I definitely recommend, especially for the price,” a reviewer writes.

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Credit: iHealth

Pros

• App connectivity
• Battery powered
• Wide-range cuff size

Cons

• Some users report app glitching

Dr. Patwa recommends iHealth as a reputable brand for at-home blood pressure monitors, especially if you are looking for a budget option. At under $50, it’s still accurate and easy to read. Another useful feature? It’s battery-powered, which is convenient if you are a person who can’t be bothered with charging another at-home device, or if you need to travel with it regularly. Its functions are basic, but its app connectivity offers a deeper dive into your data, which includes flagging of any irregular heart rhythm that may arise.

Credit: Omron

Pros

• App and Alexa-enabled connectivity
• Advanced accuracy with multiple, consecutive readings
• Battery-powered
• Extra-large display is easy to read

Cons

• Only stores 30 readings for one user

If you don’t want to splurge for the Omron Platinum but would like most of its perks, the Omron Silver is the next best thing. It also averages your readings and alerts you when they’re off, and it’s known for its accuracy thanks to its multiple data points and 360-degree cuff inflation. It also offers app connectivity via Apple Health, Google Fit, and Alexa-enabled devices, so you can delve into your data no matter what kind of phone you have. Its extra-large display is easy to read, though, even if you don’t have time to connect to your app in that moment.

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Pros

• Best for those with larger bodies and extra large arms
• App-connected
• Large backlit display is easy to read
• Battery powered

Cons

• Not as in-depth data tracked as other monitors

When deciding which feature to prioritize on your blood pressure monitor, of top importance is “finding [one] with an appropriately sized cuff; a blood pressure cuff that is too small or too large can lead to inaccurate blood pressure measurements,” explains Hem Bhardwaj, M.D., Vice Chair for Operations and Quality for Cardiology, VCU Health Pauley Heart Center. For those with larger mid-to-upper arms, this can be a challenge, as most cuffs max out around 16-17 inches. This monitor, however, offers an extendable cuff that goes up to 22 inches, making sure that those with larger arms still receive the most accurate reading possible (and are comfortable while doing so!).

Pros

• Slim and lightweight build good for travel
• App-connected
• Rechargeable battery is long lasting, up to 6 months

Cons

• Screen not brightly enough lit for those with poor eyesight
• Unclear how many readings can be stored on device

When it comes to barriers of use, portability is often named as a problem. Many blood pressure monitors are too bulky or heavy to travel with regularly, or require charging and plugs. “A lightweight blood pressure monitor can be particularly beneficial for older adults,” says Dr. Bhardwaj. It can also be useful for “individuals with limited mobility or reduced hand strength, or those that travel frequently.” Our pros lauded this sleek model from Withings for its minimalist design that users find both lighter weight to use, as well as sleeker to store without compromising accuracy. In fact, it will even inform you if it thinks your reading is wrong, and is easy to read with color-coded feedback (though some users did complain that the screen was not brightly lit enough to read in broad daylight).

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Pros

• Includes batteries and drawstring storage bag
• Easy to use
• Stores data for up to two users

Cons

• Only stores 60 readings per user

Dr. Patwa recommends this monitor, which also has a 4.4-star rating from over 28,000 Amazon shoppers. It’s small enough to easily travel with, and can run on batteries or be plugged in to save power. “I have tried many monitors. Most were large and more expensive. This is accurate, saves data, has lighted screen which is great for night use, [and is] very easy to set up,” one user raves. “Worth more than I paid.”

Pros

• Large display
• Bright backlit screen
• Simple design

Cons

• No storage case

For a reasonable price, this monitor is battery-powered for portability, and features a large display screen for optimal visibility. In addition to checking and storing blood pressure levels, it also detects irregular heartbeats and it only takes the push of one button to get a reading started. One Amazon shopper wrote, “I have had several of these types of products and always struggle with finding my pulse or pressure. This one finds it, gives indication and is accurate. It has an incredible data tracking, with charts and trends to send to doctors to print to take with you if needed.”

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Credit: Beurer

Pros

• Large LED display
• App connected
• Stores data for up to four users
• Battery powered

Cons

• Some users find the pressure uncomfortable

“A large, well-lit display with clear numbers makes it easier to accurately read and record blood pressure measurements,” says Dr. Bhardwaj. “A simple, user-friendly display also encourages patients to check their blood pressure regularly, which is essential for long-term blood pressure management.” If an easy-to-read screen is important to you, this one boasts a well-lit display with extra-large numbers. It’s not just easy to read, though, it is also easy to use. Great for the whole family, this simple monitor stores up to 30 measurements at a time for four users. It also features app connectivity, and simple color risk indicator graphics that make interpreting each reading a breeze.

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