10 Best Smartwatches with Heart Rate Monitor Redditors Highly Recommend in 2024

Looking to accurately track your heart rate by using a smartwatch? With so many options on the market, it can be tough to decide which device best suits your needs and budget.

ProductBrandNamePrice
SAMSUNGSAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 6 ClassicCheck Price on Amazon
AppleApple Watch Series 8Check Price on Amazon
AppleApple Watch SE (2nd Gen)Check Price on Amazon
FitbitFitbit Charge 5Check Price on Amazon
AmazfitAmazfit Cheetah ProCheck Price on Amazon
GoogleGoogle Pixel WatchCheck Price on Amazon
Certified BrandsGarmin Fenix 7Check Price on Amazon
GarminGarmin Venu 2 PlusCheck Price on Amazon
FitbitFitbit Versa 4Check Price on Amazon
POLARPolar Pacer ProCheck Price on Amazon

* If you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. For more details, please visit our Privacy policy page.

That’s why we turned to Reddit to find out which smartwatches Redditors are loving for heart rate monitoring. After analyzing numerous Reddit threads asking for smartwatch recommendations, we compiled this list of the best smartwatches with heart rate monitoring that are getting high praise from Reddit users this year.

For each smartwatch, we’ll go over the key specs, pros and cons, and examine how well the heart rate monitoring feature works. We’ll also look at why Redditors specifically recommend these smartwatches for tracking heart rate during workouts and daily wear.

Let’s dive in and check out the top 10 best heart rate monitoring smartwatches Reddit users are loving!

1. Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic is a sleek and stylish smartwatch that provides comprehensive health tracking, including highly accurate heart rate monitoring. It makes the top of our list for Redditors seeking an attractive smartwatch with excellent heart rate capabilities.

Key Specs

  • Display: 1.5” AMOLED display with beautiful always-on mode
  • Battery Life: Up to 14 days in regular usage
  • Water Resistance: 50m water resistant
  • Sensors: BioTracker PPG sensor, electrical heart sensor for ECG
  • OS: Wear OS powered by Samsung

Pros

  • Classy, premium design that looks like a real watch
  • Bright, vivid display with always-on mode
  • Long battery life for a smartwatch
  • Robust health and fitness tracking features
  • ECG monitoring and fall detection available
  • Highly accurate optical heart rate sensor

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Lacks support for third-party apps

Heart Rate Monitoring

The Galaxy Watch 6 Classic uses a BioTracker PPG sensor to provide continuous heart rate monitoring features. Redditors consistently report that the optical heart rate sensor is very accurate during workouts and daily wear. The watch can also take on-demand ECG readings to detect atrial fibrillation.

Advanced sensors track heart rate variability and blood oxygen levels overnight. You can view your resting heart rate trends and high/low heart rate alerts in the Samsung Health app.

Overall, Reddit users looking for a smartwatch with excellent heart rate tracking capabilities are huge fans of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic. The highly precise BioTracker PPG sensor makes it one of the most recommended smartwatches for accurate heart rate monitoring.

2. Apple Watch Series 8

The Apple Watch Series 8 builds upon the comprehensive health and fitness tracking of previous Apple Watch models with new features like wrist temperature sensing and crash detection. It’s a top choice amongst Redditors seeking the best Apple smartwatch for tracking heart rate.

Key Specs

  • Display: Always-on LTPO OLED display
  • Battery Life: 18 hours
  • Water Resistance: 50m
  • Sensors: Electrical and optical heart sensors, SpO2 sensor, temperature sensor
  • OS: watchOS 9

Pros

  • Bright, responsive always-on display
  • Intuitive watchOS platform
  • Accurate heart rate monitoring
  • In-depth fitness and health tracking features
  • Crash detection provides alerts in emergencies
  • Seamless connectivity with other Apple devices

Cons

  • Expensive compared to competitors
  • Shorter battery life than rivals
  • Limited compatibility with Android

Heart Rate Monitoring

The Apple Watch Series 8 uses both electrical and optical heart rate sensors to enable accurate heart rate tracking during workouts and all-day wear. It can also take ECG readings to detect atrial fibrillation.

Redditors praise the heart rate data as consistent with dedicated chest straps. You can view your heart rate trends, zones, and recovery stats in the Apple Health app. The Series 8 also tracks heart rate variability overnight for insights on sleep and recovery.

If you’re searching for the best Apple Watch for heart health monitoring, the Series 8 is a leading choice according to Reddit users. The combination of electrical and optical heart rate sensors provides reliable, precise data.

3. Apple Watch SE (2022)

For those seeking an affordable Apple Watch option with solid heart rate tracking, Redditors widely recommend the Apple Watch SE (2022). It delivers core Apple Watch features like heart rate monitoring for less.

Key Specs

  • Display: LTPO OLED Retina display
  • Battery Life: 18 hours
  • Water Resistance: 50m
  • Sensors: Optical heart rate sensor, accelerometer, gyroscope
  • OS: watchOS 9

Pros

  • More affordable Apple Watch option
  • Bright, responsive display
  • Provides core Apple Watch features
  • Accurate heart rate tracking
  • In-depth fitness tracking capabilities
  • Great for notifications and communication

Cons

  • Lacks always-on display
  • No advanced health sensors like ECG
  • Less storage than Apple Watch Series 8

Heart Rate Monitoring

Like the Series 8, the Apple Watch SE uses an optical heart rate sensor on the back of the watch to track your heart rate throughout the day and during workouts.

According to Redditors, the optical sensor provides accurate heart rate data that closely matches dedicated chest straps. While the SE doesn’t have the ECG app of the Series 8, it still enables heart rate tracking and high/low heart rate alerts.

If you want reliable heart rate monitoring at a lower cost, the Apple Watch SE (2022) is a smart choice according to Reddit users. The optical heart rate sensor accuracy punches above its price point.

4. Amazfit Cheetah Pro

Seeking a sports-centric smartwatch for tracking running metrics like heart rate? Reddit users recommend the feature-packed Amazfit Cheetah Pro.

Key Specs

  • Display: 1.45” AMOLED display
  • Battery Life: Up to 14 days
  • Water Resistance: 5 ATM
  • Sensors: PPG optical sensor, 3-axis accelerometer
  • OS: Zepp OS

Pros

  • Built for runners with advanced metrics
  • Lightweight yet durable design
  • Long battery life for a sporty smartwatch
  • Accurate GPS with dual-band positioning
  • In-depth training analysis and features
  • Affordable price point

Cons

  • Not as stylish looking for all situations
  • Limited app ecosystem
  • Geo-restriction for some advertised features

Heart Rate Monitoring

The Amazfit Cheetah Pro uses a BioTracker PPG sensor to deliver continuous heart rate monitoring for workout intensity and cardiac health.

Reddit reviews consistently praise the heart rate accuracy of the Cheetah Pro for tracking heart rate zones during running and interval training. You can view your workout heart rate data and alerts for any unusually high/low readings in the Zepp app.

For runners and endurance athletes seeking reliable heart rate tracking in a sports-first smartwatch, Redditors recommend checking out the affordable Amazfit Cheetah Pro.

5. Google Pixel Watch

Google entered the smartwatch market this year with the Google Pixel Watch. This sleek, circular smartwatch integrates Google’s Wear OS software and Fitbit’s health tracking capabilities.

Key Specs

  • Display: 1.2” always-on AMOLED display
  • Battery Life: 24 hours
  • Water Resistance: 50 meters
  • Sensors: Optical heart rate sensor, SpO2 sensor
  • OS: Wear OS + Fitbit

Pros

  • Attractive, minimalist design
  • Bright always-on display
  • Deep Fitbit health tracking integration
  • Accurate heart rate monitoring
  • Built-in Google Assistant and apps
  • Seamless pairing with Android phones

Cons

  • Expensive starting price
  • Battery life lags rivals
  • Limited third-party app selection
  • Fitbit paywalls some advanced health data

Heart Rate Monitoring

The Pixel Watch uses an optical heart rate sensor to track your heart rate 24/7 as well as during workouts. Thanks to Fitbit’s algorithm, Reddit users report accurate heart rate tracking comparable to a chest strap.

The watch also provides heart rate variability data overnight along with blood oxygen tracking. You’ll get a comprehensive picture of your heart health with the Pixel Watch according to Redditors.

For Android users who want a stylish smartwatch with excellent heart rate features backed by Fitbit’s expertise, the Google Pixel Watch hits the mark.

6. Garmin Fenix 7

Garmin’s rugged Fenix 7 multisport GPS watch is designed to thrive outdoors with features like multi-band GPS and solar charging. It’s a favorite on Reddit for hikers, bikers, and runners needing accurate heart rate data.

Key Specs

  • Display: 1.3” sunlight-visible display with solar option
  • Battery Life: Up to 5 weeks with solar
  • Water Resistance: 10 ATM
  • Sensors: Garmin Elevate optical heart rate; compatible with chest straps
  • OS: Garmin

Pros

  • Rugged, outdoor-ready design
  • Excellent battery life with solar charging
  • Robust fitness tracking features
  • Accurate GPS and mapping
  • Syncs with other Garmin gear and apps

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Large size may overhang smaller wrists
  • Garmin Connect app lacks polish of competitors

Heart Rate Monitoring

The Fenix 7 uses Garmin’s Elevate optical heart rate sensor technology, which Reddit users find consistently accurate for workout intensity and all-day tracking. You can also pair it with a chest strap for more precise data.

In addition to tracking heart rate zones, the watch also monitors performance metrics like VO2 max and training load. Garmin’s Body Battery energy monitoring feature and advanced sleep tracking also give insights into your health.

For hikers, bikers, and runners looking for a rugged heart rate monitoring outdoor watch, the Garmin Fenix 7 wins big praise on Reddit. The Elevate sensor, chest strap support, and in-depth performance data make it a top pick.

7. Fitbit Charge 5

Don’t need a full-featured smartwatch? Redditors seeking a dedicated fitness band that nails the basics recommend the Fitbit Charge 5. It provides advanced health tracking in a slim profile.

Key Specs

  • Display: Thin AMOLED touchscreen display
  • Battery Life: 7 days
  • Water Resistance: 50m
  • Sensors: Optical heart rate monitor, SpO2 sensor
  • OS: Fitbit OS

Pros

  • Slender, lightweight tracker design
  • Bright AMOLED display
  • Long battery life
  • Accurate heart rate tracking
  • In-depth sleep and activity data
  • Excellent value for the price

Cons

  • Not a full-featured smartwatch
  • Can’t store music offline
  • Small touchscreen display

Heart Rate Monitoring

With Fitbit’s excellent heart rate algorithms powering the show, Redditors report accurate optical heart rate tracking from the Charge 5 both day and night. You can view your resting heart rate over time along with heart rate zone data from workouts.

The Charge 5 also provides blood oxygen monitoring, sleep stage tracking, stress management tools, and fitness readiness metrics – giving you an in-depth look at your health.

If you want stellar heart rate tracking in a slim and lightweight design, the Charge 5 ticks all the boxes according to Reddit users. The advanced health insights punch far above its price point.

8. Garmin Venu 2 Plus

The Garmin Venu 2 Plus packs full smartwatch capabilities like a microphone and onboard voice assistant alongside Garmin’s excellent health tracking. It earns high praise from Redditors seeking robust fitness stats.

Key Specs

  • Display: 1.3” AMOLED touchscreen display
  • Battery Life: Up to 9 days in smartwatch mode
  • Water Resistance: 50m
  • Sensors: Garmin Elevate heart rate sensor, SpO2
  • OS: Garmin

Pros

  • Slimmer design with bright AMOLED display
  • Built-in microphone for voice control
  • Accurate heart rate monitoring
  • In-depth health, fitness, and sleep tracking
  • Garmin’s excellent training tools and insights
  • Syncs with other Garmin products

Cons

  • Expensive price tag
  • Touchscreen isn’t optimized for outdoor use
  • Voice control has some limitations

Heart Rate Monitoring

The Venu 2 Plus uses Garmin’s Elevate optical heart rate technology to track heart rate during activities and overnight. Reddit users consistently report accurate results from the sensor both indoors and outdoors.

You can view your heart rate data, zones, stress levels, and health metrics in the Garmin Connect app. While the touchscreen isn’t ideal for outdoor use, the Venu 2 Plus still provides stellar heart rate monitoring for indoor and open-air workouts according to Redditors.

9. Fitbit Versa 4

The Fitbit Versa 4 brings advanced fitness tracking like heart rate variability along with new features such as onboard GPS in a compact design. It’s a versatile fitness smartwatch option that Reddit users love.

Key Specs

  • Display: 1.19” AMOLED display
  • Battery Life: 6+ days
  • Water Resistance: 50m
  • Sensors: GPS, optical heart rate monitor, SpO2
  • OS: Fitbit OS

Pros

  • Bright, colorful AMOLED display
  • Built-in GPS for tracking outdoor activity
  • Accurate heart rate monitoring technology
  • Six days of battery life
  • Premium design that’s comfortable to wear 24/7

Cons

  • Battery drains quickly with GPS
  • No third-party app support
  • Voice assistant needs work

Heart Rate Monitoring

Thanks to Fitbit’s excellent proprietary algorithms, the Versa 4 provides accurate heart rate tracking during exercise and daily wear according to Reddit reviews. You can track heart rate zones, view trends over time, and keep tabs on abnormal high/low rates.

The addition of GPS makes the Versa 4 appealing for Redditors who want accurate heart rate data for outdoor activities. Altogether, it’s a compelling fitness-focused smartwatch option with great heart rate monitoring tech.

10. Polar Pacer Pro

The Polar Pacer Pro running watch stands out for its lightweight design, fitness tracking prowess, and Polar’s excellent wrist-based heart rate algorithm. It’s a top choice on Reddit for runners.

Key Specs

  • Display: 1.2” 240 x 240 color memory LCD display
  • Battery Life: Up to 7 days in smartwatch mode
  • Water Resistance: 30m
  • Sensors: Precision Prime heart rate technology, accelerometer, gyroscope
  • OS: Polar proprietary OS

Pros

  • Extremely lightweight and comfortable
  • Accurate GPS tracking and navigation
  • Excellent wrist-based heart rate accuracy
  • Detailed running metrics and performance analysis
  • Easy integration with other Polar products

Cons

  • Touchscreen isn’t optimized for use mid-run
  • Can’t load offline music or apps
  • Polar Flow app is dense and lacks polish

Heart Rate Monitoring

Polar uses its Precision Prime technology to deliver accurate optical heart rate monitoring without a chest strap needed. Redditors consistently praise how the Pacer Pro provides precise tracking of different heart rate zones during intense interval sessions and long runs.

The watch also takes overnight heart rate variability measurements to gauge workout readiness. Any runner looking for superb wrist-based heart rate tracking will be impressed by the Polar Pacer Pro according to Reddit users.

ProductBrandNamePrice
SAMSUNGSAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 6 ClassicCheck Price on Amazon
AppleApple Watch Series 8Check Price on Amazon
AppleApple Watch SE (2nd Gen)Check Price on Amazon
FitbitFitbit Charge 5Check Price on Amazon
AmazfitAmazfit Cheetah ProCheck Price on Amazon
GoogleGoogle Pixel WatchCheck Price on Amazon
Certified BrandsGarmin Fenix 7Check Price on Amazon
GarminGarmin Venu 2 PlusCheck Price on Amazon
FitbitFitbit Versa 4Check Price on Amazon
POLARPolar Pacer ProCheck Price on Amazon

* If you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. For more details, please visit our Privacy policy page.

Which Smartwatch Should I Buy?

When searching for your next smartwatch, there are now so many options available with detailed heart rate tracking capabilities. Hopefully this breakdown of the best heart rate monitoring smartwatches recommended by Reddit users provides a helpful starting point in your search!

From versatile picks like the Apple Watch Series 8 to dedicated sports watches like the Amazfit Cheetah Pro and Garmin Fenix 7, these devices provide the high-accuracy sensors and tracking features Redditors love. No matter your budget or needs, this list covers top choices that deliver reliable heart rate data to help optimize your workouts and overall health.

FAQ: Best Smartwatches for Heart Rate Tracking

1. What other health and fitness features can I expect from these smartwatches?

Aside from heart rate tracking, many of these smartwatches offer a wide range of health and fitness functionalities. These may include activity tracking, which monitors various physical activities such as walking, running, cycling, and more. Fitness trackers often provide data on steps taken, distance covered, calories burned, and even ground contact time during activities like running or walking. Some advanced models might even incorporate features like blood oxygen saturation monitoring, blood pressure monitoring, and electrocardiogram (EKG) capabilities to assess your heart’s rhythm and detect irregular heart rhythms.

2. Can I connect the smartwatch to my smartphone or companion apps?

Yes, most smartwatches come with Bluetooth connectivity, enabling seamless pairing with your smartphone or companion apps. This connection allows you to receive notifications, calls, messages, and app alerts directly on your wrist. Additionally, you can synchronize health and fitness data with these companion apps, providing you with a comprehensive overview of your progress and performance over time.

3. How accurate is the heart rate monitoring feature on these smartwatches?

The accuracy of heart rate monitoring varies among different models and brands. However, some of the best heart rate monitor watches employ advanced sensor technology to provide relatively accurate readings during various activities and daily wear. Keep in mind that factors like wrist size, skin tone, and motion during exercises may affect the accuracy of the readings.

4. Can these smartwatches track menstrual cycles?

Yes, some smartwatches have evolved to include menstrual cycle tracking as part of their health monitoring capabilities. This feature allows users to log and monitor their menstrual cycles, providing valuable insights into hormonal patterns, fertility, and overall health.

5. How long does the battery last on these smartwatches?

Battery life is an essential consideration when choosing a smartwatch. The duration varies depending on the model and usage patterns. While some smartwatches can last several days on a single charge, others may require daily charging, especially if you use features like continuous heart rate monitoring and GPS tracking frequently. Keep in mind that battery life tends to decrease when using more power-intensive functionalities.

6. Do these smartwatches support voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Siri?

Yes, many smartwatches offer voice assistant integration, allowing users to interact with popular voice assistants like Amazon Alexa (for Amazon devices) or Siri (for iPhone users). With voice commands, you can set reminders, control smart home devices, ask questions, and perform various tasks without touching the screen.

7. Can I use the smartwatch as an activity tracker even without a smartphone?

Absolutely! While most smartwatches complement smartphone functionalities, they can also function as standalone activity trackers. Even without a smartphone nearby, they can record and store data, such as steps taken, calories burned, and stride length during workouts or daily activities.

Reddit Sources

  1. Continuous Google Fit Tracking on WearOS Smartwatches
  2. Best Watch for Heart Rate Tracking Post-COVID
  3. Semi-Smart Watches with Heart Rate Tracking
  4. Comparison of Garmin Watches for Heart Rate Monitoring
  5. Smartwatches and Fitness Trackers: A Clarification
  6. Affordable Heart Rate Monitor Smartwatch
  7. Choosing a Smartwatch to Monitor Heart Rate
  8. Best Fitness Tracker for Gym-Goers
  9. Seeking Advice on Buying a New Fitness Tracker
  10. Top Smartwatches in 2024
  11. Best Smartwatch in 2024 for General Use
  12. Fitness Trackers and Smartwatches: A Comparison
  13. Best Fitness Tracker and Recovery Tracker
  14. Choosing the Best Smartwatch in 2024
  15. The Best Smartwatches to Buy in 2024
  16. Recommendations for Fitness Trackers
  17. The State of Smartwatches in 2024
  18. Top Fitness Trackers of 2023 According to Reddit
  19. Comparison of Two Smartwatches for 2023
  20. Top 5 Fitness Trackers of 2023
  21. Best Smart Watch in 2024: Android Wear
  22. Best Smartwatch for OnePlus Users in 2024
  23. Scientist’s Test on 50 Smartwatches
  24. Top Smartwatches in 2022: Luxury

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