Cheap Heart Rate Monitor: Best 9 Gadgets for Fitness Enthusiasts

Looking for the best cheap heart rate monitor to track your heart rate? You’re in luck! In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the best cheap heart rate monitors that are perfect for fitness enthusiasts on a budget. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting your fitness journey, these affordable options will help you stay on top of your heart rate and make the most out of your workouts. We understand that finding a reliable heart rate monitor that doesn’t cost a fortune can be a challenge, which is why we’ve done the research for you. From wristbands to chest straps, we’ve included a variety of options that cater to different preferences. So, if you’re ready to take your fitness game to the next level without breaking the bank, keep reading to discover the best cheap heart rate monitors on the market.

How we test cheap fitness trackers?

The approach we take to testing affordable fitness trackers closely aligns with our testing methodology for higher-priced counterparts. During the evaluation period of approximately one week, we personally wear the device and thoroughly examine its diverse features. Our primary consideration is the comfort level offered by the device, as a fitness tracker intended for continuous wear should ideally be unobtrusive.

In the case of fitness trackers equipped with a heart rate monitor, we meticulously assess its accuracy by comparing it with other established trackers and relying on our own judgment. While heart rate monitors have generally achieved a high level of accuracy, the differentiating factor lies in their responsiveness to changes in heart rate.

During workout sessions, we evaluate the readability of a tracker’s display. If the numbers appear too small, they can be difficult to decipher when the arm and body are in motion. Similarly, if the controls are too diminutive, tasks like changing music or switching screens become cumbersome.

Finally, we verify the battery life claims put forth by the manufacturer. Although most claims are typically accurate, certain features such as GPS or music streaming can significantly impact battery life, leading to faster depletion.

Comparison and Features

 SizeWeightDisplayWater resistanceHeart rate monitorGPSSleep trackingSmartphone notificationsBattery life
Fitbit Inspire 31.5 x 0.7 x 0.5 inches3.5 ouncesAMOLED50 metersYesNoYesYes10 days
Fitbit Charge 4  1.57-inch OLED touchscreen50 metersYesYesYesYes7 days
Whoop 4.01.5 inches x 1 inch x 0.5 inches  Swim ProofYesNo Yes4-5 days  
Amazfit Bip1.28 inch (176 x 176)  5 feetYesYesYesYes45 days
Wyze Band4.4 x 3.3 x 1.3 inches2.6 ounces0.95-inch AMOLED touchscreen50 metersYesNoYesYes7 days
Xiaomi Mi Band 445 x 15 x 14 mm 0.95-inch (240 x 120) color AMOLED touch screen50 metersYesNoYesYes20 days
Huawei Band 3 Pro1.8 x 0.8 x 0.4 inches0.88 ounces0.95-inch AMOLED touchscreen50 metersYesYesYesYes12 days/7 hours with GPS
Garmin Vivofit 40.75 x 0.37 inches. Circumference: 5.83 to 8.46 inches (large), 4.80 to 7.40 inches (regular)0.96 ounces0.43 x 0.43 inches, 88 x 88 pixels50 metersNoNoYesNo1 year
Withings Move38mm, analog50 metersNoNoYesNo18 months

Best Cheap Heart Rate Monitor: 9 HRMs for Fitness Enthusiasts

1. Fitbit Inspire 3

The best cheap fitness tracker

fitbit inspire 3

The Fitbit Inspire 3 stands out as an exceptional budget-friendly fitness tracker due to its excellent performance in essential aspects: monitoring heart rate, accurately tracking workouts, and logging sleep stages. While it lacks built-in GPS functionality, which may be a minor disappointment, it compensates with an array of other features that make it a compelling choice. One noteworthy feature is Fitbit’s vibrant community of individuals dedicated to achieving and maintaining fitness goals, providing an inspiring environment for users. Engaging in challenges allows you to compete with friends, colleagues, and even strangers, adding an extra layer of motivation.

Priced at $100, the Fitbit Inspire 3 offers various enticing attributes, including Fitbit’s Active Zone Minutes metric, an impressive battery life of 10 days, intuitive touch controls, and a significant upgrade from its predecessor, the Fitbit Inspire 2—an attractive, vivid AMOLED screen. While the unit itself is only available in black, it is bundled with three distinct band colors: black, lilac, and morning glow. Moreover, the wristband comes in two sizes to accommodate different preferences: small and large.

Throughout our testing, we found the Fitbit Inspire 3 to be remarkably lightweight and comfortable for round-the-clock health tracking. The inclusion of a color screen adds a touch of elegance to the tracker, elevating its overall feel. Although it may not cater to everyone’s preferences, if you seek an affordable fitness tracker, the Inspire 3 is an excellent choice that won’t disappoint.

2. Fitbit Charge 4

The runner-up best cheap cheap heart rate monitor

Fitbit Charge 4

The Fitbit Charge 4 stands out as a significant milestone for Fitbit, being their first fitness tracker to include built-in GPS functionality. Additionally, it introduced a groundbreaking feature known as Active Zone Minutes, which provides a more comprehensive assessment of overall health compared to simply tracking step count. During our testing, we found the touchscreen interface to be highly user-friendly, allowing easy navigation while on the go. Furthermore, the device’s comfortable fit on the wrist was noteworthy. When using the GPS feature for activities like running and cycling, we were impressed by its accuracy.

In terms of battery life, the Fitbit Charge 4 offers a respectable duration of up to one week, although it decreases to five days when utilizing GPS. While it may not be the best battery life among fitness trackers, it remains commendable. The only aspect we found lacking was the absence of onboard music options, which would have allowed users to leave their phones behind. Nevertheless, considering its approximate price point of $100, the Fitbit Charge 4 proves to be an exceptionally remarkable piece of technology to have on your wrist.

3. Whoop 4.0

The best fitness tracker subscription

Cheap Heart Rate Monitor

Rather than a one-time purchase, the Whoop 4.0 operates on a subscription model. The monthly fee of $30 makes it technically less than $100. However, alternative subscription plans are available for 6 months ($288) and 12 months ($324), offering slightly discounted rates.

The Whoop 4.0 may not cater to everyone’s needs due to the absence of a screen and built-in GPS. If your primary goal is to track daily runs or bike rides, this tracker might not be the most suitable option for you. However, if your focus lies in gaining valuable insights regarding heart rate and recovery data, the Whoop 4.0 meets those requirements.

To truly derive value from the Whoop 4.0, consistent usage is key. This fitness tracker excels in providing comprehensive data, allowing users to deepen their understanding of their training routines. It proves particularly beneficial for individuals seeking to enhance their workouts by incorporating in-depth information or those aiming to adjust their training approach after experiencing overtraining injuries. When it comes to advanced tracking capabilities, the Whoop 4.0 ranks among the top options available in the market.

4. Amazfit Bip

A cheap fitness tracker with GPS

Cheap Heart Rate Monitor

The Amazfit Bip stands out as an exceptional and affordable fitness tracker option that includes GPS functionality. Featuring a user-friendly touchscreen and the ability to receive smartphone notifications, this watch boasts an impressive battery life and incorporates a built-in heart-rate monitor alongside GPS and GLONASS for precise workout monitoring.

It’s common knowledge that inexpensive heart-rate-tracking devices often lack accuracy. However, when we put the Amazfit Bip to the test, we were pleasantly surprised to discover that it performed nearly as well as our Garmin Forerunner, a highly regarded device renowned for its precision.

The Bip truly excels in its battery life capabilities. Remarkably, even without utilizing any of its smart features, the watch can last an astounding 45 days. Even when utilizing the heart-rate monitor and GPS for workout tracking, we were able to use the Bip for a remarkable two weeks before the battery level dropped below 50 percent. This level of endurance is truly remarkable for a fitness tracker, regardless of its price range.

5. Wyze Band

A dirt-cheap fitness tracker with Alexa built in

Cheap Heart Rate Monitor

Retailing at just $25, the Wyze Band stands out as an incredibly affordable yet highly capable fitness tracker available both in stores and online. Its compact design houses a vibrant AMOLED display, ensuring easy readability. Remarkably, this wearable device can last a complete week on a single charge, providing extended usage without interruptions. Additionally, it offers exceptional running metrics to enhance your fitness journey.

By utilizing the companion Wyze app, users of the Wyze Band can access a comprehensive record of their running activities, including average pace data, calories burned, running heart beats per minute (BPM), and total miles covered. Although it lacks metrics for various other workout types, it serves as an excellent choice for individuals engaged in regular walking, jogging, or running routines.

What sets the Wyze Band apart from other affordable fitness trackers is its integration of Alexa. Being the sole device in its price range with Alexa built-in, the Wyze Band allows users to interact with their connected smart home devices by simply speaking into the band. Despite encountering a few connectivity issues during our review, we thoroughly enjoyed the convenience of controlling our smart lights with a touch of James Bond-style flair.

6. Xiaomi Mi Band 4

This cheap fitness tracker has a big, bright display

Cheap Heart Rate Monitor

If you’re seeking a vibrant and eye-catching display, the Xiaomi Mi Band 4 emerges as the ideal affordable fitness tracker to meet your needs. With its plethora of adorable and colorful designs available in the Mi Fit app, you can personalize the watch face to suit your style. Furthermore, the Mi Band 4 allows you to set up personalized alerts and conveniently control music playback directly from your smartphone.

In terms of fitness and sleep tracking, the Mi Band 4 delivers good performance, although it may not surpass the capabilities of most other inexpensive fitness trackers. Nevertheless, its noteworthy feature lies in its impressive 20-day battery life, which translates to a hassle-free charging experience occurring only once a month.

7. Huawei Band 3 Pro

One of the best cheap fitness trackers with GPS

Cheap Heart Rate Monitor

The Huawei Band 3 Pro appears to offer a comprehensive set of features for an affordable fitness tracker. With its vibrant OLED touchscreen, it provides an array of functionalities including heart rate monitoring, built-in GPS, and detailed sleep analysis. Moreover, it goes the extra mile by including swim-tracking capabilities and serving as a convenient remote shutter for smartphone cameras. The Band 3 Pro impressively manages to offer all these features at a budget-friendly price point of $70, making it a rare find in the market.

However, while the Band 3 Pro boasts numerous advantages, there are a few areas where improvements could be made. One such aspect is its bulky metal frame, which may not be suitable for individuals with smaller wrists. Additionally, the GPS functionality of the device tends to take an extended period to acquire a signal, causing inconvenience to users. Furthermore, the accuracy of the heart rate data provided by the Band 3 Pro may not be entirely reliable, leaving room for improvement in this area as well.

8. Garmin Vivofit 4

This basic fitness tracker lasts a year on a charge.

Garmin Vivofit 4

Garmin’s Vivofit 4 stands out as an affordable option among fitness trackers. Its primary focus lies in tracking steps and monitoring sleep, which satisfies the basic requirements for many users.

While lacking some advanced features such as a heart rate sensor, built-in GPS, touch screen, and phone notification capabilities, this economical fitness tracker excels at accurately capturing your daily movement. The accompanying Garmin app enhances its functionality by enabling users to set personalized goals, engage in friendly challenges with other Garmin users, and even display local weather information directly on the Vivofit 4. Notably, one impressive aspect of this tracker is its exceptional battery life, which can last up to a year on a single charge.

9. Withings Move

A basic fitness tracker that looks like a classic watch.

With a design resembling a classic analog timepiece, the Withings Move stands out among popular wearables. Its round display and traditional watch hands create a sophisticated appearance, while an embedded subdial on the watch face serves as a visual indicator of your progress towards daily activity goals.

Notably, this tracker does not include a heart rate sensor, and it lacks smartphone notifications, preventing users from responding to texts or receiving alerts. While its fitness-tracking capabilities are relatively basic, it does offer connected GPS functionality when paired with a phone during runs. In some cases, the connected GPS feature may encounter issues, but a simple process of unpairing and repairing the watch with your phone resolves the problem.

The Withings Move may not excel in advanced features; however, it compensates with an extraordinary battery life. Remarkably, this watch can operate for an impressive 18 months without requiring a recharge. In a landscape dominated by smartwatches and fitness trackers necessitating daily or frequent charging, the Move sets itself apart with its minimal maintenance requirements. The only time I found it necessary to remove the watch was during showers to give my skin a break after a run. If extended battery life is your primary concern, few fitness trackers can rival the Move’s longevity without compromising style, affordability, or portability.

Importance of Heart Rate Monitoring in Fitness

Heart rate monitoring is a vital aspect of any fitness routine. By measuring your heart rate during workouts, you can gain valuable insights into the intensity of your exercise, ensuring that you’re working at the right level to achieve your fitness goals. Monitoring your heart rate can also help you avoid overexertion, prevent injuries, and maximize the efficiency of your workouts. Whether you’re aiming to lose weight, improve cardiovascular health, or increase endurance, tracking your heart rate is an essential tool in achieving optimal results. With the right heart rate monitor, you can take control of your fitness journey and make each workout count.

Heart rate monitoring offers numerous benefits for fitness enthusiasts. Firstly, it provides real-time feedback on your exertion levels, allowing you to adjust your intensity accordingly. This is particularly useful for those looking to lose weight or improve cardiovascular fitness, as it helps you stay within the target heart rate zone for optimal fat burning and aerobic conditioning. Secondly, heart rate monitors enable you to set specific training zones based on your fitness goals. By tracking your heart rate during different types of workouts, such as cardio, strength training, or HIIT, you can ensure that you’re pushing yourself enough to see results, without overdoing it. Lastly, heart rate monitoring can help you track your progress over time. By comparing your heart rate data from different workouts, you can identify trends, gauge improvements, and set new goals for yourself.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Heart Rate Monitor on a Budget

When shopping for a cheap heart rate monitor, it’s important to keep a few key factors in mind to ensure you’re getting a reliable device that suits your needs. The first factor to consider is the type of heart rate monitor. There are two main types: wrist-based monitors and chest strap monitors. Wrist-based monitors are convenient and comfortable to wear, but they may not provide the same level of accuracy as chest strap monitors. On the other hand, chest strap monitors are more accurate, but some people find them uncomfortable or restrictive during workouts. Consider your personal preferences and comfort level when choosing between the two types.

Another factor to consider is the features offered by the heart rate monitor. While budget-friendly options may not have all the bells and whistles of high-end models, there are still some essential features to look for. These include accurate heart rate monitoring, compatibility with your smartphone or fitness tracker, water resistance, battery life, and ease of use. Decide which features are most important to you and prioritize them when comparing different models.

It’s also worth reading customer reviews and checking the reliability and durability of the heart rate monitor you’re considering. Look for feedback on accuracy, comfort, and overall performance to ensure you’re making a wise investment. Additionally, consider the warranty and customer support offered by the manufacturer. A reputable brand with good customer service can provide peace of mind and help resolve any issues that may arise.

Features to Look For in a Cheap Heart Rate Monitor:

When choosing a heart rate monitor on a budget, it’s important to prioritize the features that are most important to you. Here are some key features to consider:

  • Accuracy: Look for a heart rate monitor that provides accurate readings, especially during high-intensity workouts.
  • Compatibility: If you use a smartphone or fitness tracker, ensure that the heart rate monitor is compatible with your device. This will allow you to sync your data and track your progress easily.
  • Water Resistance: If you plan to use your heart rate monitor during water-based activities like swimming, look for a device that is water-resistant and can withstand immersion.
  • Battery Life: Consider the battery life of the heart rate monitor, especially if you engage in long workouts or outdoor activities. A longer battery life means less frequent charging.
  • Ease of Use: Choose a heart rate monitor with a user-friendly interface and intuitive controls. This will make it easier to navigate through the device’s features and settings.

Tips for Using a Cheap Heart Rate Monitor Effectively

To make the most out of your heart rate monitor, consider the following tips:

  • Know your target heart rate zones: Determine your target heart rate zones based on your fitness goals. This will help you optimize your workouts and ensure you’re working at the right intensity.
  • Warm up and cool down: Start each workout with a warm-up to gradually increase your heart rate. After your workout, cool down to gradually lower your heart rate.
  • Track and analyze your data: Take advantage of the syncing capabilities of your heart rate monitor to track and analyze your data. This will help you identify patterns, set new goals, and track your progress over time.
  • Experiment with different workouts: Use your heart rate monitor to try different types of workouts and see how your heart rate responds. This will help you find the activities that are most effective for you.
  • Listen to your body: While your heart rate monitor can provide valuable data, it’s important to listen to your body and adjust your intensity based on how you feel. If you’re feeling fatigued or experiencing any discomfort, take a break or reduce your intensity.

How to Incorporate Heart Rate Training into Your Fitness Routine,

Now that you have a reliable heart rate monitor, it’s time to incorporate heart rate training into your fitness routine. Here are some ways to do it:

  • Interval Training: Alternate between high-intensity and low-intensity intervals, aiming to reach and maintain your target heart rate during the high-intensity portions. This type of training can improve cardiovascular fitness and calorie burn.
  • Steady-State Cardio: Maintain your heart rate within a specific zone for an extended period, such as during a long-distance run or bike ride. This type of training helps improve endurance.
  • Strength Training: Use your heart rate monitor during strength training to ensure you’re working at an appropriate intensity. Short rest periods and compound exercises can elevate your heart rate and provide a cardiovascular benefit.
  • Group Fitness Classes: If you enjoy group fitness classes, such as Zumba or spinning, wear your heart rate monitor to track your exertion levels. This will help you stay within the recommended heart rate zones for the class.

Remember to consult with a fitness professional or trainer to determine the best heart rate training approach for your specific goals and fitness level.

Cheap Heart Rate Monitor: Maintenance and Care Tips

To ensure the longevity and performance of your heart rate monitor, follow these maintenance and care tips:

  • Clean regularly: Wipe down your heart rate monitor after each use to remove sweat and dirt. Use a soft cloth or a mild cleaning solution to clean the device gently.
  • Store properly: Store your heart rate monitor in a cool and dry place. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight, as this can damage the device.
  • Replace batteries: If your heart rate monitor uses replaceable batteries, make sure to replace them as needed. Low battery levels can affect the accuracy of the readings.
  • Check for firmware updates: Occasionally, check for firmware updates for your heart rate monitor. These updates can improve performance, fix bugs, and add new features.
  • Avoid extreme impacts: While heart rate monitors are generally durable, avoid subjecting them to extreme impacts or dropping them. This can cause internal damage and affect their accuracy.

By following these maintenance and care tips, you can ensure that your heart rate monitor remains in optimal condition and provides accurate readings for years to come.

Cheap Heart Rate Monitor: Final Thougths

Investing in a reliable heart rate monitor is a small price to pay for the valuable insights it provides. By monitoring your heart rate during workouts, you can ensure you’re working at the right intensity, track your progress, and make each workout count. So, don’t let a limited budget hold you back from achieving your fitness goals. Take advantage of the best cheap heart rate monitors for fitness enthusiasts and elevate your workouts to the next level. Start tracking your heart rate today and unlock your full potential.

FAQs

How to choose the best cheap fitness tracker for you

When in search of an affordable fitness tracker, it’s important to acknowledge the need for certain tradeoffs while ensuring that compromises are minimal. The finest inexpensive fitness trackers offer a wide range of features comparable to their more expensive counterparts. Here are key aspects to consider:

  1. Automatic workout tracking: It can be frustrating to forget pressing the Start button before commencing a run or bike ride. An excellent fitness tracker should possess the ability to automatically detect when you begin such activities and record them accordingly, ensuring you receive credit for your exercise.
  2. Heart rate monitor: This feature is essential unless you prefer wearing your fitness tracker as a pendant. A heart rate monitor not only provides valuable insights into your fitness progress but also offers a holistic view of your overall health. It enables you to gather data on your heart rate throughout the day, both during wakefulness and sleep.
  3. Satisfactory battery life: A reliable fitness tracker should maintain a charge for at least two days. This longevity is crucial for tracking various metrics, including sleep, as well as allowing you to keep the device on your wrist for extended periods.

By prioritizing these features, you can find an inexpensive fitness tracker that meets your needs without significant compromises.

What is a good inexpensive Fitbit?

If you’re in search of a top-notch Fitbit without breaking the bank, the Fitbit Inspire 3 emerges as an exceptional fitness tracker option. Featuring a vibrant AMOLED screen, precise battery life, and catering to individuals venturing into fitness for the first time, it avoids the burden of an ostentatious wrist gadget or a significant financial investment. For those who may be willing to stretch their budget, exploring previous-generation watches such as the Garmin Forerunner 255 and Garmin Forerunner 55 can be worthwhile, particularly since newer models have hit the market and these older models are likely to be available at discounted prices.

Is it worth buying a cheap fitness tracker?

If you’re aiming to gain comprehensive insights into your overall well-being, opting for an affordable fitness tracker can indeed be a worthwhile venture. These budget-friendly options typically offer basic functionalities such as step counting, distance tracking, and calorie estimation, all without breaking the bank. However, if you have specific requirements such as advanced metrics or if you’re engaged in marathon training, considering a slightly pricier device equipped with built-in GPS and heart rate monitoring capabilities might be a sensible choice.

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