High blood pressure, or hypertension, impacts an estimated 1.3 billion people globally and is responsible for around 10 million deaths each year, as reported by the World Heart Federation. This condition affects the entire body and gradually damages blood vessels, making it the leading risk factor for mortality worldwide. While effective treatments exist, detecting and monitoring high blood pressure can be challenging.
Dr. Kazuomi Kario, a professor and chairman of cardiovascular medicine at Jichi Medical University, explored the potential of managing hypertension through wearable technology, such as smartwatches, in an article published in the Journal of the American Heart Association.
Recent research indicates that wearable devices are “validated and reliable,” performing well compared to traditional out-of-office blood pressure measurement methods. However, there are still limited options that possess the technology required for accurate blood pressure readings. Nonetheless, there are viable choices available.
What is the Best Blood Pressure Watch You Can Buy Right Now?
To help you find a smartwatch that effectively monitors blood pressure, we reviewed studies from medical professionals to evaluate the best options on the market. Our criteria focused on accuracy, data privacy, and price. The top blood pressure watch available in the U.S. market is the YHE BP Doctor Pro, notable for being one of the few wearables that measures blood pressure from the wrist. Keep reading to compare all the blood pressure watch options currently available.
The best blood pressure watches of 2024
1. YHE BP Doctor Pro—Best Blood Pressure Smartwatch Overall
The YHE BP Doctor Pro stands out in the market for its promise of medical-grade accuracy in blood pressure measurement. After several weeks of rigorous testing, it has proven to deliver on that promise. The watch features a patented inflatable air cuff that measures blood pressure fluctuations effectively, allowing users to monitor their health seamlessly.
Key Features and Functionality
One of the standout features of the YHE BP Doctor Pro is its ability to measure blood pressure at any time, making it an invaluable tool for those who need to keep a close eye on their cardiovascular health. In addition to blood pressure monitoring, this smartwatch offers a comprehensive suite of health-tracking features. It includes:
Activity Tracking: Whether you’re walking, running, or engaging in other forms of exercise, the watch tracks your activity levels throughout the day. This feature helps users set fitness goals and stay motivated. Personally, I found the step counter to be surprisingly accurate, which encouraged me to increase my daily activity.
Sleep Tracking: Understanding sleep patterns is crucial for overall health. The YHE BP Doctor Pro monitors your sleep quality, duration, and cycles, providing insights that can help improve your sleep habits. After using it for a few nights, I could identify patterns in my sleep that I had never noticed before, leading to better sleep hygiene.
Continuous Heart Rate Monitoring: The smartwatch continuously tracks your heart rate 24/7, giving you real-time insights into your cardiovascular health. I appreciated receiving alerts when my heart rate fluctuated unexpectedly, prompting me to take a moment to relax or adjust my activity.
Notifications and Alarms: Stay connected with message notifications and alarms that alert you to important events, ensuring you never miss a beat in your daily life. I found the notifications incredibly useful, especially when I was busy at work and couldn’t check my phone constantly.
Weather Updates: The watch also includes weather updates to help you plan your activities accordingly. This feature was particularly helpful on days when I planned to exercise outdoors, allowing me to avoid unexpected rain.
User Experience and Compatibility
The YHE BP Doctor Pro offers a user-friendly experience with its intuitive interface. Users can easily navigate through various features, and syncing data with the accompanying app is seamless. The app is compatible with both Android and iOS devices, allowing you to create a personalized health management plan that includes data for your entire family.
Technical Specifications
Blood Pressure Measurement: Inflatable cuff
Size: 5.31-8.66 inches (adjustable for various wrist sizes)
Weight: 2.12 oz (60.1 g)
Power Source: Rechargeable lithium-ion battery
Battery Life: Up to one week on a single charge
App Compatibility: Available for both iPhone and Android
2. Samsung Galaxy Watch 7—Best Blood Pressure Smartwatch for Most People
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 is a widely popular wearable device that offers the capability to measure blood pressure. With its built-in health monitor app, this smartwatch also provides ECG readings, making it a versatile tool for health-conscious users. However, it’s important to note that Samsung cautions users that the blood pressure function “cannot diagnose hypertension, other conditions, or check for signs of a heart attack.” It is not intended to replace traditional methods of diagnosis or treatment by a qualified healthcare professional. Personally, I think the Galaxy Watch 7 is an effective tool for keeping tabs on my health, offering a balance of functionality and style.
Key Features and Functionality
The Galaxy Watch 7 shows particular promise in monitoring existing health conditions. For instance, a study involving this watch found that blood pressure measurements were both reliable and accurate. It has even been used to help monitor blood pressure in patients with Parkinson’s Disease, demonstrating its practical applications in real-world scenarios.
Blood Pressure Measurement: The watch employs pulse wave analysis to estimate blood pressure, offering users a convenient way to monitor their health.
ECG Monitoring: Besides blood pressure, the Galaxy Watch 7 can take ECG readings, providing further insights into heart health. This dual functionality can be particularly beneficial for those with pre-existing conditions.
User-Friendly Interface: The watch features an intuitive interface that makes it easy to navigate through its various health-monitoring functions. Users can access their health data quickly and efficiently.
Notifications and Smart Features: Beyond health monitoring, the Galaxy Watch 7 also keeps you connected with notifications for calls, messages, and apps, making it a comprehensive smartwatch for daily use.
Technical Specifications
Blood Pressure Measurement: Pulse wave analysis
Size: Available in 40mm and 44mm models
Weight: 28.8 grams (40mm) and 33.8 grams (44mm)
Power Source: Rechargeable lithium-ion battery
Battery Life: Approximately three days on a single charge
App Compatibility: Galaxy Wearable app
3. Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra—Advanced Smartwatch for Fitness Enthusiasts
The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra stands out with its unique square design complemented by a round watch face, offering both style and functionality. This smartwatch is designed with the user in mind, featuring an innovative magnetic lug system and three buttons on one side. Its gesture support advanced running dynamics, and integrated wellness insights make it an appealing choice for fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals alike.
Key Features and Functionality
Similar to the Galaxy Watch 7, the Galaxy Watch Ultra measures blood pressure using the built-in health monitor app and sensors located on the back of the device. It employs advanced algorithms that work in concert with these sensors, requiring initial calibration with a traditional blood pressure cuff to ensure accuracy.
Blood Pressure Measurement: This feature utilizes pulse wave analysis and provides a convenient way to monitor your blood pressure on the go. While it’s important to note that the blood pressure function has not yet received FDA approval in the U.S., it is operational in over 50 countries, highlighting its global acceptance.
Wellness Insights: Samsung’s Galaxy AI delivers wellness insights that combine to create a daily performance score, guiding users towards optimal health, including tips for achieving healthy sleep levels.
Advanced Fitness Tracking: The Galaxy Watch Ultra is equipped with features that cater to serious athletes, including VO2 Max measurements and advanced running dynamics data. This can help you track your performance and improve your training regimen.
User Experience: The operating system is optimized for the round watch design, featuring a virtual rotating bezel for easy navigation. With fall detection, messaging, and phone call capabilities, it seamlessly integrates into your daily life.
Technical Specifications
Blood Pressure Measurement: Pulse wave analysis
Size: 47mm
Weight: 60.5 grams
Power Source: Rechargeable lithium-ion battery
Battery Life: Approximately three days on a single charge
App Compatibility: Galaxy Wearable app
4. FitVII Smartwatch—Best Budget-Friendly Blood Pressure Watch
In the evolving world of wearable technology, finding a reliable blood pressure smartwatch under $100 can be quite a challenge. Enter the FitVII Smartwatch, which stands out as a budget-friendly option without compromising on essential features. Priced at just $45 on Amazon, it boasts a solid 4-star rating from over 4,700 reviewers who praise its consistent readings and user-friendly app interface.
Key Features and Functionality
The FitVII Smartwatch is a versatile device that packs a lot of functionality into an affordable package. Here’s what you can expect:
Blood Pressure Measurement: Utilizing built-in sensors, the smartwatch provides readings that users have found to be consistent and reliable. While it may not have the advanced technology of higher-end models, it offers a great entry point for those looking to monitor their blood pressure.
Sleep Tracking: The watch analyzes your sleep patterns, distinguishing between deep and light sleep. This feature can provide valuable insights into your sleep quality, helping you make necessary adjustments for better rest.
Activity Tracking: FitVII tracks daily activity levels, motivating users to stay active throughout the day. Whether you’re walking, jogging, or engaging in other exercises, this smartwatch helps you keep tabs on your fitness goals.
Real-Time Weather Updates: Staying informed about the weather is easy with real-time updates displayed directly on the watch. This feature is convenient for outdoor enthusiasts planning their activities.
Health Monitoring: In addition to blood pressure, the FitVII Smartwatch tracks heart rate and blood oxygen levels, offering a comprehensive overview of your health metrics.
User-Friendly Display: The 1.7-inch HD screen provides a clear and vibrant display, making it easy to access your data and navigate through different features.
Long Battery Life: With a battery life ranging from 7 to 10 days on a single charge, you won’t have to worry about frequent recharging, allowing for continuous health monitoring.
Technical Specifications
Blood Pressure Measurement: Sensors
Size: 1.7 inches (display)
Weight: 1.2 oz (34.02 g)
Power Source: Rechargeable lithium-ion battery
Battery Life: 7+ days
App Compatibility: FitCloudPro App
5. Med-Watch Pro—Best Standalone Blood Pressure Watch
The Med-Watch Pro is an excellent choice for individuals seeking a blood pressure smartwatch that operates independently of a smartphone or app. This device allows you to store all your health data directly on the watch, providing convenience for those who prefer not to rely on additional technology. However, if you do wish to connect it to your smartphone, the DaFit app offers enhanced insights and personalized recommendations based on your health data.
Key Features and Functionality
The Med-Watch Pro employs advanced technology to ensure accurate health monitoring.
Blood Pressure Measurement: The Med-Watch Pro utilizes an optical sensor to measure blood pressure through a technique called photoplethysmography (PPG). This method involves emitting light into the skin and measuring light absorption changes to accurately calculate blood pressure. Impressively, it takes only 30 seconds or less to obtain a reading.
Comprehensive Health Tracking: Beyond blood pressure, this smartwatch tracks heart rate, blood oxygen levels, sleep patterns, daily steps, and more. This multifaceted approach to health monitoring makes it a valuable tool for anyone looking to keep tabs on their overall wellness.
User-Friendly Design: The watch features an adjustable strap that accommodates wrist sizes from 5.5 to 8.5 inches, ensuring a comfortable fit for various users.
Battery Life: With a rechargeable battery that lasts up to a week on a single charge, the Med-Watch Pro is designed for extended use, allowing you to focus on your health without the hassle of frequent recharging.
Data Management: While it functions effectively as a standalone device, the option to connect to the DaFit app provides added convenience for those who prefer to have their health data accessible on their smartphones. The app can help you analyze trends and gain deeper insights into your health over time.
Technical Specifications
Blood Pressure Measurement: Optical sensors
Size: Adjustable strap (5.5-8.5 inches)
Weight: Not specified
Power Source: Rechargeable battery
Battery Life: Up to a week
App Compatibility: DaFit app
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Blood Pressure Watch
As the market for blood pressure watches continues to develop, it’s essential to consider several key factors to ensure you select the device that is suitable for your needs. While there may not be as many options available as there are for general smartwatches, technology is evolving rapidly. Here are some essential factors to keep in mind:
Capability
When selecting a blood pressure watch, it’s crucial to understand how it measures blood pressure. For instance, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 and similar models require users to establish a baseline with a certified external monitor before using the watch to track changes. This means you must first enter your readings into the app, which then provides incremental measurements based on that baseline. In contrast, other models, like those with inflatable cuffs, can measure blood pressure directly. Personally, I appreciate devices that provide direct measurements, as they eliminate the extra steps and make it easier to monitor my health throughout the day.
Additional Functions
Some blood pressure watches, like the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 and Ultra, are fully-fledged smartwatches equipped with Google’s Wear OS, offering a wide range of features beyond blood pressure monitoring, such as fitness tracking, notifications, and more. However, other options may focus solely on blood pressure measurement and essential timekeeping. If you’re like me and enjoy having multiple functionalities in one device, opting for a smartwatch might be worthwhile. On the other hand, if your primary goal is strictly monitoring blood pressure, a specialized device could suffice.
Fit and Comfort
Comfort is paramount when it comes to a blood pressure watch. Accurate readings depend not only on the device’s technology but also on how well it fits your wrist. A poorly fitting watch can lead to inaccurate readings, so it’s crucial to find a comfortable model for extended wear. I’ve discovered that watches with adjustable straps and breathable materials make a significant difference, especially when I’m active on long days. Since you’ll want to take readings throughout the day, a watch that feels good on your wrist will enhance the overall experience.
User Interface and App Compatibility
A clear and intuitive user interface can significantly impact your experience with a blood pressure watch. Check if the watch features a user-friendly display and how easy it is to navigate through settings. I appreciate watches with straightforward navigation and easy access to my health data. Additionally, consider the compatibility of the accompanying app. A well-designed app can provide insights, track trends over time, and help you manage your health more effectively.
Battery Life
Battery life is another critical factor. Depending on how frequently you plan to use the watch and its features, a longer battery life can reduce the hassle of frequent recharging. Many blood pressure watches offer a battery life ranging from several days to a week, ideal for continuous monitoring. I’ve experienced the frustration of needing to charge my devices daily, so I always look for watches that can last at least a few days on a single charge.
How We Choose These Blood Pressure Watches
When selecting the best blood pressure watches, we faced a unique challenge due to the limited available options. While the idea of a blood pressure watch has garnered interest, the execution across various models has been inconsistent. To navigate this landscape, we considered several key factors:
Commercial Availability
One of the first criteria we examined was the commercial availability of blood pressure features. For example, while the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 and Ultra are popular choices, they do not yet have FDA approval for blood pressure readings in the United States. This lack of approval means that consumers in the US cannot access this functionality, making it a less viable option for those seeking reliable blood pressure monitoring.
Accuracy
Accuracy is paramount when it comes to health monitoring devices. We scrutinized studies and medical research to evaluate the precision of various blood pressure watches. Our goal was to ensure that the watches we recommend deliver reliable readings, as inaccurate data can lead to mismanagement of health conditions. We focused on devices that have been validated in clinical settings, giving consumers confidence in their measurements.
Data Privacy
Given the sensitive nature of health information, data privacy was another critical factor in our selection process. We delved into each brand’s privacy protocols to understand how they handle users’ health data. Ensuring that consumers’ information is secure is vital, especially with the rise of digital health technologies. We prioritized brands that demonstrate a commitment to protecting user data, allowing consumers to use their devices with peace of mind.
Finally, we kept price in mind while making our final selections. The market for blood pressure watches is still emerging, and while many models are available, not all are reliable or focused on user privacy. We aimed to find a balance between affordability and quality, understanding that economical options may compromise accuracy or data security. Our selections include a range of price points to cater to different budgets while focusing on the best features.
Do Blood Pressure Watches Work?
The idea of a watch that measures blood pressure might sound like something straight out of a science fiction novel, but recent technological advances have made this a reality. Verified and tested blood pressure watches do indeed work, providing a convenient way to monitor your health. However, it’s essential to consult your doctor before integrating one into your health routine.
According to Dr. Paolo Bonato, an associate professor at Harvard Medical School, there are four critical areas to consider when evaluating the effectiveness of wearable health technology:
Wearable Sensors: The core technology behind blood pressure watches lies in their sensors. These devices utilize advanced technology to measure blood pressure through various methods, such as optical sensors or inflatable cuffs. Understanding the accuracy and reliability of these sensors is vital for assessing the overall effectiveness of the watch.
Wearable Systems: This refers to the overall architecture of the device, including how it integrates hardware and software. A well-designed system will allow for seamless data collection and user interaction, ensuring that measurements are easily accessible and understandable.
Signal Processing and Analysis Procedures: Effective signal processing is crucial for translating raw data into meaningful health information. This involves sophisticated algorithms that analyze the collected data to provide accurate blood pressure readings and insights. The quality of these processes directly impacts the reliability of the results.
Closed-Loop Systems: While primarily applicable to more advanced medical technologies, the concept of closed-loop systems is worth noting. These systems can adapt and respond to real-time data, which could potentially enhance the functionality of blood pressure watches in the future.
In summary, while blood pressure watches can be effective tools for monitoring your health, it’s essential to approach their use with informed caution. Ensure you converse with your healthcare provider to understand how these devices can fit into your overall health management strategy. As technology continues to improve, these wearable devices will likely become even more reliable and integral to personal health monitoring.
What Is Stroke Level Blood Pressure?
Stroke level blood pressure refers to a critical condition in which blood pressure readings reach dangerously high levels, significantly increasing the risk of a stroke or other serious cardiovascular events. According to Healthline, a hypertensive crisis is defined by a systolic reading above 180 mm Hg or a diastolic reading above 120 mm Hg. At this stage, immediate medical attention is crucial to prevent potentially life-threatening complications.
To provide some context, here’s a breakdown of the various blood pressure categories:
Healthy Blood Pressure: Less than 120/80 mm Hg
Elevated Blood Pressure: Systolic 120-129 mm Hg and diastolic less than 80 mm Hg
Hypertension Stage 1: Systolic 130-139 mm Hg or diastolic 80-89 mm Hg
Hypertension Stage 2: Systolic 140 mm Hg or higher or diastolic 90 mm Hg or higher
Hypertensive Crisis: Systolic above 180 mm Hg and/or diastolic above 120 mm Hg
It’s important to understand that hypertension often develops silently and may not present noticeable symptoms initially. This lack of immediate symptoms can make it easy to overlook the importance of regular blood pressure monitoring. Early detection and management are vital for preventing complications like stroke, heart attack, and kidney damage.
Maintaining awareness of your blood pressure levels is essential, especially if you have risk factors such as a family history of hypertension, obesity, or a sedentary lifestyle. Regular check-ups and lifestyle modifications can help manage and lower your blood pressure, reducing the risk of reaching those dangerous levels. If you or someone you know experiences a hypertensive crisis, seeking emergency medical assistance is critical.
