Rachael Ban

High blood pressure can cause stroke, heart attack, and dementia. Keeping track of our blood pressure is important, but testing can be inconvenient. It would be so much easier if smartwatches could track it, right?

At this time, few watches can track blood pressure accurately. These are the Omron Heart Guide and potentially also the ASUS Vivowatch BP and the new Samsung Galaxy watch 3 (but still no support for this feature in the US). Cheaper blood pressure watches claim to track it using purposely built sensors. They may not be as accurate but they just might do it for most people who need to track blood pressure on the go on top of other things.

You might wonder why Fitbit, Garmin etc., have not introduced blood pressure smartwatches. Well, as we’ll explore, this technology is very complex and difficult to get right. Omron and ASUS may have managed it, but they’ve had to scrimp on other features. Follow our list below for cheaper alternatives as well if measurement accuracy is not the top priority.

With that in mind, here are our top pick of current blood pressure watches that offer convenience and precision, depending on the product and price range.

1. YAMAY Fitness Tracker with Blood Pressure Monitor

YAMAY fitness tracker is a fully fledged activity tracker which monitors your heart rate and movement throughout the day. It could also motivate you to stay fit and active. The blood pressure and oxygen level monitor are not to be confused as a medical device and are there to help you with the monitoring and assist your health, but that’s it. Sleep tracking will analyze the way you sleep and the alarm clock is helpful too for most people. See the full review of 2020 Yamay blood pressure smartwatch.

Pros

• 1.3″ bright, high quality display, comes in 5 different colors.
• Activity tracking, sports tracking with 9 modes including walking, running, spinning, yoga and more.
• Features both heart rate tracking and blood pressure monitor.
• Up to 10 days battery life
• IP68 waterproofing – excellent for swimming.
• Good compatibility with both iPhone and Android
• Good price

Cons

• Accuracy can be improved
• Not enough sport modes compared to others

2. New MorePro Blood pressure monitor – 2021 Model (V100s)

Updated version of the popular watch, released in November 2020. This relatively cheaper alternative also measures your body temperature. Lot’s of positive reviews and a nice set of features. See our full review of MorePro blood pressure smartwatches. There’s a few models ranging from a simple bands to other larger 1.3″ square display with a slim design. This 2021 updated model has a nice 1.14″ LCD color screen and the battery lasts 7-10 days on a single, quick charge.

Pros

• 1.14″ bright, high quality display
• Activity tracking, sports tracking, body temperature tracking
• IP68 certified, excellent for swimming.
• Good battery life. Built in USB for charging
• App works well on both iPhone and Android
• Many color options

Cons

• Accuracy can be improved but may just be good enough for non medical purposes.
• Temperature and Blood pressure need to be enabled on the app first. (not really a problem)

3. Omron Heart Guide

Omron have been manufacturing cuff-style blood pressure monitors for decades. Last year, they introduced Heart Guide. Crucially, this is the first smartwatch to incorporate traditional cuff-style technology (oscillatory tech).

You can trust this device because it has FDA approval (unheard of in the smartwatch industry). As well as monitoring BP, this watch measures sleep and displays smartphone notifications.

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The biggest problem with this watch is its size. So, if you have slim wrists, the Heart Guide may feel heavy and obstructive.  But hey, it’s probably the most accurate blood pressure watch out there from a brand you can trust, and it’s now available on Amazon which means you can get it by tomorrow most likely…

How Does the Omron Heart Guide Work?

Remember we said that traditional BP monitoring uses an inflatable cuff? Well, Omron have incorporated an inflatable cuff into the wrist band of their watch.

So, how does it work? Well, the cuff inflates and places pressure on two arteries in the wrist. As the cuff deflates, BP can be measured.

However, it’s important to say that the BP tracking is not automatic. Instead, you have to tell the device that you want to measure your blood pressure. Once you do this, the watch asks you to place your wrist in front of your heart for 20-30 seconds.  

Then, the device syncs your BP readings to the HeartAdvisor App.

Pros

• You can check your BP from any location at any time, so the watch offers convenience.
• It tracks fitness and sleep, so you can monitor your overall health.
• While it is not as advanced as some smartwatches, it offers some good basic features (call and text alerts).
• Also, it has a reasonable battery life of 3+ days.

Cons

• Comparative to other watches, it is very expensive.
• It would not work as a running watch because it’s too bulky.
• This watch does not offer in-built GPS so you cannot track your routes.
• Despite huge interest in the product, it can be difficult to source in some parts of the world

4. DSmart V12c (Square Design, Blood Pressure)

This DSmart watch (using H4-V12c Hardware) uses a 1.4″ IPS square touchscreen, it’s waterproof and of course, it tracks your blood pressure. Quality Zinc-Alloy case and wide phone compatibility. It will monitor your sleep and can be work for 3-7 days without needing a charge. You can set your activity goals in the WoFit app and the watch will show you your daily achievements towards your goals.

PROS:

• Full touchscreen, square design
• Unisex design – more color options including grey and pink and purple
• Newer, more accurate sensors
• Relatively large screen with big text

Cons:

• No body temperature function
• 3-7 days on the battery is a bit disappointing but not too bad compared to Apple watch or the Apple Watch SE.

5. HalfSun Fitness Tracker

Another good blood pressure sensor watch alternative which does the job for many people. Lot’s of positive reviews and a nice set of features. For a complete review of the HalfSun blood pressure watch click here.

Pros

• Good Quality 1.3″ screen. IPS, Full Color HD
• Activity tracking with app integration
• Light and comfortable
• Automatic, continuous heart rate monitor
• Can track blood pressure automatically.

Cons

• Relies on phone for GPS
• Accuracy can be improved

6. Blumelody Fitness Tracker for Blood Pressure and Body Temperature

A newcomer into this segment, the Blumelody blood pressure monitor watch measures all the usual stuff, including your fitness, blood oxygen, heart rate and blood pressure. The added benefit here is the body temperature sensor which is something new and unique at this stage.

This watch is a bit simplistic in its approach with one touch button but not the touch screen you would normally see in more sophisticated or expensive models.

The watch tracks your blood oxygen, heart rate and blood pressure. Like all other watches in this category it will track your sleep and help you detect abnormalities in your sleep patterns.

The Bluemelody smartwatch has many features that will help your track and monitor your health and improve your lifestyle accordingly.

Pros

• Built in USB charging. (no need for cable)
• 5 days battery life and quick charging in one and a half hour.
• IP67 Waterproof
• Flexible band fits many different sizes.
• New model incorporating latest sensors

Cons

• New and potentially less reviews or feedback available.
• Too simple to handle. Not a lot of features or advanced touch screen like other models we like.
• Band type design may be more feminine than masculine.
• Not a well known brand (yet?)

7. DSmart Blood Pressure and Body Temperature

Another new tracker for 2021, this watch boasts a colorful screen, bluetooth 5.0 and a 1.14″ IPS screen. Longer batter life for up to 21 days, 6 Workout modes and updated health sensors. It’s the same hardware (V100s) as the Morepro new version which means it can also track your body temperature continuously and alert for changes. See the pros and cons on the Morepro version above.

8.Peakfun Smartwatch for Blood Pressure

A versatile fitness tracker with all the features you would expect, a 1.3″ IPS touchscreen and long battery life that can work up to 7 days. It will connect to your phone and track your activity all day and night with smart sleep monitoring. You can take it swimming as it’s IP67 waterproof. Watch faces can be customized. The screen is detailed and easy to read.

Pros

• Clear and bright, high pixel count (240 x 240) color touch screen
• A choice of two colors – black and pink
• Play music and connect to your headphones via Bluetooth
• Compatible with major phones
• Good value for money

Cons

• Blood pressure accuracy not proven
• Few sports modes compared to top brands
• Amazon reviews seem to be about headphones

9. DFG Smart Watch HRV

This new smartwatch and fitness tracker boasts a 1.54″ touchscreen and a battery life of 5-7 days. It connects with your phone GPS to track your activity, distance travelled and routes to give you the fuller picture.

We think the blood pressure monitoring with this watch has currently got a few advantages over older models. Recording of BP can take place automatically (every 5 minutes) and sync with your phone app daily for convenience. You can also calibrate the blood pressure reading by entering professional grade equipment (e.g. using a blood pressure monitor) data into the app which is a nice feature that can improve the accuracy of the readings. Needless to sat, the watch is not a replacement for medical equipment but can be used for reference purposes.

Pros

• Big touchscreen – 1.54″ with big numbers
• Improved sensors
• Connectivity and app compatibility
• Night monitoring of blood oxygen and heart rate

Cons

• New brand and watch so not enough reviews
• strap design a bit dated
• No FDA approval, BP accuracy needs to be tested.

10. DoSmarter Fitness Watch

A fitness watch for all purposes with the added value of blood pressure monitoring. Designed to be worn by men and women alike. Waterproof and sporty – good for swimming but not designed to be worn during hot saunas or baths. This watch is light and relatively simple to use. This watch typically lasts 5 days between charges. We have mixed feelings about this watch as some customers experienced quality and accuracy issues with it.

All you health tracking can be shown and summarized in the app. Blood pressure can be turned to automatic mode. You are also able to fill in your profile details (age, height, etc) so that measurements are more accurate.

Pros

• Simple, all rounder
• Light and stylish
• Strap fits most sizes
• Good for swimming and sleep monitoring

Cons

• Blood pressure as an extra benefit but not a main feature
• Some bad reviews about quality of measurements and the product itself.

11. ASUS Vivowatch BP

The ASUS Vivowatch BP is another promising blood pressure watch. It does not have FDA approval, but it appears to deliver accurate results. Unlike the Heart Guide, it does not use oscillatory technology. Instead, it relies on sensors. Some people see this as an inferior technology, and this may explain why it has not achieved FDA approval.

One of the best things about this watch is the accompanying HealthConnect App. This app is very simple to use and provides great insights.

Availability

The ASUS Vivowatch BP is difficult to find if you live outside of the US or Canada. Worldwide roll-out is expected at the end of this year or early next year.

How Does It Work?

This watch does not have an inflatable cuff. Instead, it relies on sensor technology and sophisticated algorithms to predict blood pressure. So, how does this work?

Well, the Electricalgraphy (ECG) sensors measure heart rate. And the Photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor measures pulse. When combined, this information calculates your Pulse Transit Time (PTT). PPT can provide an estimate of blood pressure.

Unlike the Heart Guide, blood pressure estimates occur automatically so there’s no need to raise your arm.

Pros

• Since this watch relies on sensor technology, it can offer automatic blood pressure estimates.
• It offers 28-days of battery life, so you won’t have ‘charging anxiety’.
• It is small and discreet, so it is an ideal smartwatch for women.
• Compared to similar devices, this watch is reasonably priced.
• Finally, built-in GPS is an added bonus.

Cons

• It may be less reliable than the Omron Heart Guide because it does not have FDA backing.
• It is not compatible with all versions of Android, so check before purchasing.
• This watch was released in 2018 and although the software is updated regularly, it may be a bit dated.
• Presently, it is difficult to source in some parts of the world

12. Samsung Galaxy Watch 3

The new kid on the block, Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 was released on August 5, 2020. It a full featured watch with lots of app support and probably the best smartwatch on the market if you don’t fancy an Apple Watch. In terms of price it’s obviously more pricey than many watches in this review but you usually get what you pay for.

Build quality is good. Functionality is robust with sleep tracking, heart rate, blood oxygen, GPS and more. Built in ECG works well and is approved for use in the US. Alas, the blood pressure sensor and app are not yet functional for US customers. This actually prevents us from recommending this watch full heartedly at this time. Samsung are expecting the blood pressure monitoring function to be supported via the app in the coming months. So, if you have some faith in them, you might want to adopt this watch early and activate this important feature when the update is available.

Pros

• A smartwatch based on WearOS from Samsung
• Follow along workout videos on your TV in tandem with your watch
• Wireless charging
• Quality watch, good sensors, best in class apps
• Lots of customization options

Cons

• Works well in the Android family of things (less so with Apple)
• Not all features are available, including Blood Pressure (which is what we cover here)

Blood Pressure Technology

We’ve all had our blood pressure (BP) taken at some point in our lives. The traditional method for BP testing is the cuff method. This is also called the ‘oscillatory method’.

How does this technology work? Well, the cuff is placed around your upper arm. It inflates until enough pressure is exerted on your arteries to stop blood flow. As the cuff deflates, the device measures how quickly blood returns to your arteries. Testing the upper arm is more accurate than testing the wrist or finger because it’s closer to the heart.

So, you can see why a ‘blood pressure smartwatch’ is a big ask. Two companies have managed it, though. The Omron Heart Guide uses traditional oscillatory technology. In contrast, the ASUS Vivowatch BP as well as all the other blood pressure smartwatches in this review rely on sensors and algorithms.

What Is Blood Pressure?

Your blood pressure reading signifies how easy it is for blood to flow around your body. Basically, the higher your blood pressure, the harder it is for blood to flow. For the most part, high blood pressure is caused by blocked, narrowed or damaged arteries.

High blood pressure (or hypertension) can lead to blood clots. As a result, clots can cause dementia, heart attack, kidney disease and stroke.

Do I Need to Track My Blood Pressure?

Interestingly, studies show that monitoring blood pressure at home helps to empower stroke victims.

But we should all keep on eye on our blood pressure – even fitness junkies. This is because studies show that exercising doesn’t necessarily protect us from high blood pressure. So, it’s not just senior citizens and stroke survivors that should track their BP – it’s everyone.

What Causes High Blood Pressure?

High blood pressure is not fully understood but the following factors play a role:

• Eating too much salt
• Being inactive
• Stress
• Consuming meat and dairy
• Smoking  

As mentioned, anyone can benefit from BP tracking. But if your lifestyle is unhealthy, you may find BP tracking particularly useful.

The Benefits of Blood Pressure Watches

The main issue with conventional blood pressure testing is that it’s inconvenient. Usually, you have to see a doctor or pharmacist to get your blood pressure taken. Having said that, you can buy home-testing kits. But these don’t store your data, so you may end up losing it. In contrast, blood pressure fitness trackers are:

• Portable and convenient so you never miss a BP reading.
• They record and store your BP data in the app, so it’s easier to review with your doctor.
• You’re less likely to forget to take your BP. As a result, you’ll catch potential problems earlier.
• You can measure BP at various points throughout the day. As a result, you’ll get a better understanding of how your lifestyle affects your BP.

Do I Really Need to Track Blood Pressure?

Blood pressure fitness trackers show great potential, but they are not perfect. To be specific, the Omron Heart Guide is expensive and bulky. At the same time, the ASUS is difficult to source and does not have FDA approval. Cheaper alternatives may offer some solution but may not be exactly what you need. So, are blood pressure watches worth the money?

Well, it depends on how important BP tracking is to you. Certainly, you could overlook these snags if BP tracking is high on your list of priorities. People living with chronic stress or illness will probably benefit from one of these watches. Tracking your blood pressure can be quite useful for some. But if this doesn’t apply to you; a BP fitness tracker may be unnecessary.

In fact, many people believe that cheaper fitness trackers are sufficient for tracking health. To be specific, most mid-range trackers measure resting heart rate (RHR). RHR gives a good indication of overall cardiovascular health. Although, as mentioned, people with a good RHR aren’t necessarily immune to high blood pressure.

Ask yourself how important BP monitoring is. If it’s fairly low on your list of requirements, other fitness trackers offer better a better fit for purpose.

The likes of the Fitbit Sense is a fantastic alternative. Designed for those who are conscious of all areas of their health; physical and mental, the Fitbit Sense offers sleep scores, advanced heart health and stress monitoring. Additionally, it offers solutions to any extreme responses it picks up from your body to help bring you back to normal. Fitbit is a good choice for health tracking even though it may not offer blood pressure monitoring as of yet. The new Apple Watch 6 could also work well in these circumstances but again – no blood pressure tracking in this very popular smartwatch.

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Last but not least, there’s the option of getting an upper arm blood pressure monitor that is both portable and accurate for when you need it. For some this is the best solution as you could get the best of both worlds: a branded fitness tracker from the like of Apple, Fitbit or Garmin and a blood pressure monitor from the likes of Omron.

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