Pulse oximeters are useful devices for monitoring heart rates and oxygen saturation, especially for patients with underlying heart or chronic lung conditions.
While pulse oximeters designed for home use have been available for some time, their popularity has surged recently as more people prioritize wellness and seek convenient ways to monitor their health.
A pulse oximeter measures your blood oxygen level, which is particularly helpful if you have conditions like asthma, pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart failure, or anemia. These conditions can impact your blood oxygen levels.
Top pick
Zacurate Pro 500DL
Editor’s choice
Mibest Blod12
Best value
Wellue O2Ring
Below, you’ll find nine expert-approved pulse oximeters to consider, whether you’re shopping for yourself or for your loved ones.
1. Zacurate Pro Series 500DL
The Zacurate Pro Series 500DL comes with instructions, but you won’t need them—this oximeter is intuitive to operate and quick to read, earning it our top pick for ease of use. During our testing, we appreciated the wide range of adjustability the Zacurate offers, accommodating most finger sizes while fitting snugly in place.
We were impressed by the large, bright display with clear markings for blood oxygen and pulse readings, making them easy to differentiate.
Additionally, the magenta color is a refreshing departure from typical oximeters, making it easier to locate the device when needed. This straightforward device excels in accuracy and ease of use.
Operating it is incredibly simple: just turn on the power button and receive readings in seconds. It’s an ideal choice for anyone seeking a no-frills option without the need for extensive setup.
Pros:
- Accurate SpO2, pulse rate, and strength readings in 10 seconds
- Displays SpO2 up to 100% on large LED display
- Suitable for sports enthusiasts
- Accommodates wide range of finger sizes
- Includes batteries, silicone cover, lanyard, and 12-month warranty
Cons:
- Not FDA-approved for medical use
- LED display may not be as detailed as OLED
2. Mibest Blod12
The Insignia Pulse Oximeter scores high marks for fit, setup, and display, matching the performance of more expensive devices on this list, which is impressive given its lower price.
Once we added batteries, it quickly provided results on a clear, crisp LED display. The device also had a snug grip around our fingers and accommodated a variety of finger sizes.
Our testing revealed that the Insignia oximeter’s sensitivity could be a double-edged sword. Incorrect alignment or positioning of fingers led to inaccurate readings, which was frustrating. However, some users might see this sensitivity as a positive, indicating higher accuracy. Once properly positioned, the oximeter worked perfectly.
Overall, we believe this budget-friendly option will satisfy most users.
Pros:
- Accurate SpO2 readings up to 100%
- Large OLED display with multiple viewing options
- Easy one-button operation
- Suitable for sports and aviation use
Cons:
- Not FDA-approved for medical use
- Limited to spot-checking purposes
3. Wellue O2Ring
The Wellue Viatom stood out with its app connectivity and unique design. It excelled at detecting blood oxygen levels and provided tools for tracking and interpreting data. We were impressed by its innovative design, which slips over your upper finger like a ring instead of clipping onto your fingertip. The ring was comfortable to wear and vibrated when the reading was complete, displaying results on the ring and sending them to the app for review.
The ring-shaped oximeter features a flexible, silicon-like material that adjusts to different finger sizes, making it comfortable to wear on fingers of varying shapes. During our testing, we found the app to be user-friendly and informative, displaying real-time blood oxygen percentages and heart rates while saving readings for future reference. The app also includes a settings page where users can customize reminders to check blood oxygen levels, adjust the device’s vibration and screen brightness, and connect to Apple Health. Notably, the oximeter can be used independently of the app, as results appear on the display screen.
Although it is the most expensive option available, this oximeter is worth the investment if you struggle to interpret data from standard oximeters. It allows for long-term data analysis, which can be shared with healthcare providers. For some users, this feature justifies the extra cost.
Pros:
- Comfortable, adaptable ring sensor
- Detailed app and PC reports
- Marks unusual data
- Unlimited app storage
- Rechargeable, 16-hour battery life
Cons:
- Not FDA-approved
- Limited to specific finger sizes
4. Santamedical Gen 2
The Generation 2 Fingertip Pulse Oximeter is an entry-level device offered at an accessible price point. Designed for simplicity and ease of use, you can easily fit the device onto your finger to measure your blood oxygen level, pulse rate, and changes in blood flow. The readings for blood oxygen and pulse are displayed as numerical values, while blood flow is shown as a waveform on the screen.
This basic device operates on AAA batteries and provides essential information without additional features like smartphone connectivity. It’s important to note that it is not FDA-approved.
The SantaMedical Generation 2 Pulse Oximeter stands out as a budget-friendly option, featuring a unique auto shut-off function that activates after 10 seconds of inactivity. The oximeter is user-friendly with just one button for operation.
Overall, the Generation 2 Fingertip Pulse Oximeter is a practical choice for those seeking a straightforward, cost-effective device to monitor vital signs without the need for advanced features.
Pros:
- Easy to operate, as noted by reviewers
- Comes with a protective carrying case
- Large and bright display
Cons:
- Some users report varying readings
- Not FDA-approved
5. Innovo Deluxe iP900AP
Innovo’s iP900AP pulse oximeter, available in two models, has earned a spot on our list for its accuracy and reliability. According to Innovo, this fingertip oximeter consistently outperforms others in clinical tests, though it is not FDA-approved.
Reviewers praise the iP900AP for its accuracy, often comparing its readings to those from professional machines. The device provides reliable readings and ensures proper usage by guiding you through the process.
Both Innovo models feature visual and numeric readouts on an OLED display and are designed for fingertip use. If you don’t need an alarm feature, the Premium iP900AP may be the ideal choice for you.
Board-certified internist Christine Bishara, MD, recommends having a portable pulse oximeter as part of essential home medical equipment, like a thermometer. However, she advises patients to consult with their doctors about their specific medical conditions and the use of a home pulse oximeter before purchasing.
The Innovo iP900AP is a reliable and portable option for those seeking accurate pulse oximeter readings at home.
Pros:
- Easy to transport
- Ready to use right out of the box
- Accurate readings, according to reviews
Cons:
- Battery setup can be confusing
- Some reviewers note it is not very durable
What to Look for in a Pulse Oximeter
Ease of Use
Ensure the oximeter is straightforward to operate without complex setup. Readability should be clear to avoid confusion over results, especially if used by multiple individuals or for storing personal data.
Fit
The oximeter should comfortably fit various finger sizes, securing snugly for accurate readings without discomfort or falling off during use.
Accuracy
Prioritize accuracy in light transmission for reliable SpO2 readings. Higher cost doesn’t always guarantee better accuracy, so choose a device known for consistent readings.
Data Display
Opt for a device with a large, bright display, crucial for easy reading, especially for those with visual impairments. Consider models that assist in interpreting readings or consult healthcare professionals for guidance.
Portability
Choose a compact, portable oximeter that suits your lifestyle, whether for home use or travel. Accessories like carrying cases or lanyards can enhance convenience.
Type
Most pulse oximeters operate similarly, measuring oxygen saturation in red blood cells via light waves. Clip-on designs are common for home use, while hospital-grade oximeters may differ in attachment types. Smartwatches with oximetry capabilities offer streamlined monitoring options.
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