High blood pressure is among the leading causes of heart problems in the United States and has been attributed to other ailments, which include kidney disease and stroke. The problem is that most people don’t realize that they are suffering from hypertension until it’s too late.
Back in the days, taking vital signs such as high blood pressure readings was a preserve of medical practitioners as they had to use sophisticated tools. Thankfully, we now have simple, convenient blood pressure monitors that allow you to check your blood pressure levels right in the comfort of your home.
Research shows that self-monitoring of your blood pressure can help you control hypertension (high blood pressure) and hypotension (low blood pressure) better and diagnose the condition well before it reaches a dangerous level.
But remember, folks, this is your health, and this means you can’t settle on substandard monitors to keep track of your blood pressure readings. Thanks to our team, you don’t need to invest in hours of research finding the right one for your needs. Read through our reviews on the best high blood pressure monitors and get a good model that you can rely on.
Top 10 Blood Pressure Monitors Of 2020 Reviewed
1. Care Touch
Best Automatic Wrist Blood Pressure Cuff MonitorIf you are looking for the Best Automatic Wrist Blood Pressure Cuff Monitor, then Care Touch would be an ideal option for you. This compact BP monitor which comes with a memory function features an irregular heartbeat indicator that is displayed on the monitor with a symbol. With that being said, for visibility, a large (1.4” x 1.6”) LCD monitor which comes is also backlit displays all the readings for ease of access to results. The backlight does allow you to be able to view your results even in the dark.
If you like revisiting your history results, the memory function which comes with both date and time stamps gives the ability to store up to 60 days worth of data for future reference. What’s more, this unit is very efficient, giving you feedback within a matter of minutes after you initiate the test. One year warranty backs the device for quality assurance. This unit measures about 2.9 x 2.6 x .88 inches and weighs about 5 ounces.
Pros:
- Powers off automatically
- Memory function for up to 60 days of storage
- Clear and easy to ready display LCD monitor
Cons:
- Could be more accurate with the BP readings
- could be more durable
- could be cheaper for the value
2. Omron Series 10 (BP786/BP786N)
Blood Pressure Monitor DigitalThere’s no question that Omron’s Series 10 is the best of the best. It provides clear and accurate blood pressure results on an easy-to-read display. It is incredibly easy to use; just attach it on your arm, press start, and wait for the results.
Aside from measuring your blood pressure, this machine also checks for an irregular heartbeat. It can take accumulated readings within a 10-minute window to increase its accuracy, has free data storage, and is capable of sharing data wirelessly with your doctor.
Pros:
- Checks for an irregular heartbeat
- Wireless data (can be linked to the app)
- Accurate readings
Cons:
- May take a while to learn how to read the data-rich display
- Bulky
- Batteries not included
3. LotFancy Digital Arm Blood Pressure Monitor
Best Automatic Wrist Blood Pressure Cuff MonitorThis blood pressure monitor gives you a lot of bang for your buck. It allows you to store blood pressure data of up to 4 individuals.
The LCD display is extra large with a 6-level WHO indicator allowing you to immediately see the classification of your blood pressure level (normal, higher than normal, hypertension). You also get an irregular heartbeat indicator and an auto-shutoff feature. All this for less than $50.
Pros:
- Really affordable
- FDA-approved
- Large, easy-to-read screen
Cons:
- No main adapter
- Batteries not included
- Slow reading
4. Panasonic EW3109W Portable Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitor
Blood Pressure Monitor For TravelThis is the perfect blood pressure monitor for someone who’s always on the go. It’s lightweight, small, easy to use, and has a Digital Filter Sensor that blocks out any other noise except for your pulse to ensure accurate readings.
Pros:
- Portable
- User-friendly
- Digital Filter Sensor
Cons:
- Some users have complained about its accuracy compared to the doctor’s own readings
- No A/C adaptor
- Different cuff sizes need to be purchased separately
5. Balance Blood Pressure Monitor Kit
Blood Pressure Monitor For Large ArmsThis blood pressure is a popular choice among users for several reasons. It has a one-size-fits-all cuff which ensures that the device will be a comfortable fit for any individual. It can also be shared by numerous family members of varying sizes.
The device also detects irregular heartbeats. A hypertension indicator bar will let you know if the current reading is something you need to worry about. Best of all, the device comes with a storage case, a wall plug, and batteries!
Pros:
- Inexpensive
- Fairly accurate
- Versatile – you can use the wall plug or the batteries
Cons:
- Delicate connection tube
- Internal memory is erased whenever you change batteries
- Some customers have complained that the one-size-fits-all cuff is too large for petite users
6. A&D Medical UA-767F
Blood Pressure Monitor For TravelCompared to others on this list, the A&D Medical Blood Pressure Monitor is the best when it comes to the number of readings it can store per user. It can store up to 60 of the most recent readings per user (4 users in total) along with the time and date of each reading.
Other features of this device include an irregular heartbeat indicator and a Pressure Rating Indicator. The cuff fits comfortably on most people which makes it even more perfect for a whole family. Moreover, it has an excellent track record for churning out accurate readings.
Pros:
- Detects irregular heartbeats
- High memory capacity
- Cuff fits comfortably on users of varying sizes
Cons:
- Some users have complained that the device warns of an irregular heartbeat if you move around too much while using it
- Not the best device for beginners
- Some users have complained about inaccurate readings (too low)
7. Withings Wireless Blood Pressure Monitor
Blood Pressure Monitor With AppIf you’re more at ease using high-tech gadgets, you’ll definitely like the Withings Wireless Smart Blood Pressure Monitor. Instead of a device with an LCD display, the cuff wirelessly connects with the Withings Health Mate App (downloadable in the App Store and Google Play) where your blood pressure reading will be displayed and stored.
This makes it much easier for you to share your information with your doctor.
Pros:
- Wireless digital gadget
- Cuff fits most sizes
- Downloadable memory
Cons:
- Cannot detect irregular heartbeats
- More expensive than most blood pressure monitors
- May not be easy to use for elderly customers
8. Ozeri BP2M
Blood Pressure Monitor For WristIf you can’t find a cuff that fits your arms or you’d much prefer to get a reading from your wrist, then the Ozeri BP2M is a good choice. As a wrist cuff, this is one of the best in the market. Color-coded results will let you know immediately if your reading is normal, prehypertension, or hypertension.
It has a HUGE memory – able to hold 1197 blood pressure readings, 399 readings each for 3 users. It can also detect an irregular heartbeat and show you your average blood pressure reading at a push of a button.
Pros:
- Color-coded display
- Huge built-in memory
- Irregular heartbeat detector
Cons:
- Low batteries can sometimes result in inaccurate readings
- Short battery life
- Wrist cuffs aren’t as accurate as arm cuffs
9. GoWISE USA Digital Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitor
Best BP Monitor with Hypertension Risk IndicatorThis GoWise Blood Pressure Monitor is an excellent choice for someone looking for the Best BP Monitor, coupled with a Hypertension Risk Indicator. Not only will this device give you accurate readings for irregular heartbeat detection, but also notify you should you be at risk of hypertension. It comes in a compact white body with a wedge-like design to allow you to use the device with ease. This unit features an over-pressure protection feature to avoid hurting your arm while taking your pressure readings, unlike many other digital pressure monitors.
GoWISE USA BP monitor features a user-friendly, portable design that is approved by the FDA. It comes with a large monitor as well as touch-sensitive buttons allowing you to view your results without any challenges. This unit features a memory function for storing a limited amount of results and is powered by 4 (AA) batteries and measures 6.5 x 4.2 x 6 inches. It weighs about 1 pound.
Pros:
- User-friendly
- Very light and portable
- Features a memory function
Cons:
- Could be more durable
- Could be more consistent with the readings
- Could use a much longer cuff
10. Etekcity Blood Pressure Monitor
Best Rechargeable Blood Pressure MonitorEtekcity is one of the Best Rechargeable Blood Pressure Monitors in the market which comes with uses a Li-ion battery. This device uses a USB cable for charging it, saving you the trouble of rummaging through your storage for extra batteries. Another feature that makes this unit a must buy is the LED Display backed by voice broadcasting. The LED display will display all your blood pressure information clearly and visibly while the voice command will come in handy when you are not in a position to use the screen.
The uniqueness of this device is convenient. It comes with an irregular indicator for the pulse as well as a WHO indicator. It can also store up to 90 results for two different users simultaneously. Standard sized cuff which measures 8.6 – 16.5 inches and can fit just about any size of the upper arm comes included in the package. Furthermore, you’ll also find a one years warranty backed by a lifetime of customer support.
Pros:
- Features quick and easy results
- Features audible results for the who have impaired hearing
- Excellent customer support
Cons:
- Could be more efficient in accuracy levels
- takes long to give feedback
- could be cheaper for the quality
Some blood pressure monitors that you also might want to check out are the Omron 5 Series BP742N Blood Pressure Monitor, the Omron 3 Series Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor (Model BP629), the QardioArm Wireless Blood Pressure Monitor, and LifeSource Pro Blood Pressure Monitor with XL Cuff (UA-789AC). These have also received good reviews but we just didn’t have the time to test them out.
Choosing The Best Blood Pressure Monitors – The Ultimate Buying Guide
High blood pressure is a silent killer. One out of three Americans has high blood pressure according to the CDC. One way to help keep track of your blood pressure is to have a reliable blood pressure monitor at home. But which one do you buy? While there are several popular devices in the market, it doesn’t mean that these will suit your needs perfectly.
So, how do you find out? We’ve got just the guide to help you.
Types of Blood Pressure Monitors
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Arm Monitors
The cuffs are wrapped around the upper arm. These can be manual or digital with an automatically inflating cuff or one that is manually inflated. Arm monitors are believed to be more accurate than wrist monitors. However, the fit and the placing of the cuff still needs to be correct in order to ensure accurate readings.
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Wrist Monitors
Unlike arm monitors, these are fully automatic. However, it is extremely sensitive to positioning. You need to position your wrist across your chest at heart level. Even just a few inches from the correct position can alter the reading. Fortunately, really good models use sounds and lights to enable you to find the correct position.
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Digital Monitors
These are blood pressure monitors that make use of electricity (either A/C adapter or batteries) and have self-inflating cuffs.
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Manual Monitors
These are the old-fashioned monitors, a.k.a. Sphygmomanometer. If calibrated correctly, this type of blood pressure monitor is highly accurate. And these do not require a source of electricity. Just good ole muscle.
To choose a blood pressure monitor that suits you, you’ll need to answer the following questions:
Does the Cuff Fit?
Most arm monitors have adjustable cuffs. The A&D Medical UA-767F has a cuff that fits most users. Manufacturers also often offer various cuff sizes but these may be sold separately like with the Panasonic EW3109W Portable Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitor. Keep in mind that the wrong cuff size can give you inaccurate results.
How Easy is it To Use?
You need to make sure that the device is intuitive or at least the manual is easy to understand. If you’re into high-tech gadgets, you may find it more convenient to use a blood pressure monitor that syncs with an app such as the Withings Wireless Monitor.
If the device is for an elderly loved one, something simple that can be used with a push of a button would be more their style. You need to also look at the display where the result will be shown. Is it large and easy to read? How many stats are shown? The Omron Series 10 (BP786/BP786N) has a large display and the best in the market. But the data-rich display can take a while to get used to.
What Features do You Need?
Some blood pressure monitors come with an irregular heartbeat detector and/or a high-risk indicator. Some have the capability of performing multiple readings and providing you with an average.
How Accurate is it?
While our picks have excellent reviews on the accuracy, it is important to take note that wrong placement of the cuff can result in consistently inaccurate readings that some users have complained about.
How Much does it Cost?
Most of the models in our top 10 list are under $100 in Amazon. Naturally, some are more affordable than others such as the LotFancy Digital Arm Blood Pressure Monitor and the GoWISE USA Digital Upper Arm Monitor.
And if you really can’t choose, why don’t you ask your doctor for a recommendation? Remember, the most important thing about a blood pressure monitor is accuracy and how easy it is to use at home. You want to keep an eye on the status of your heart. Everything else can be secondary.
Conclusion
BP monitors come handily in making sure you keep tabs with your health that way you can take necessary measures should you realize any unusual heart activity. However, there being so many of these devices in the market, it is straightforward to land on a faulty or even worse, a counterfeit monitor. That’s why we have comprehensively researched on the ten best portable BP monitors for your consideration.
If you pay attention to the essential features like the accessibility of the readings, memory function, portability and most importantly the accuracy level of the unit. Which of the 10 BP monitors works best for you?