The way in which technology has evolved has allowed, in addition to miniaturizing large devices, improving the quality of life for many users. This has been achieved basically thanks to the fact that many devices are designed for a health-related use, so, with the help of innovation, many have become interested in aspects to which they previously did not pay attention. That is why we can find a large number of blood pressure monitors on the market.
What are the differences between heart rate and blood pressure?
It is a term that is on everyone’s lips. With the appearance of the famous smart bracelets, many have felt a certain interest in pulse control, however, it is a completely different term from another also widely used: blood pressure . The first one is in charge of reporting the number of beats per minute our heart produces, while the second one talks about the pressure that exists in the arteries at two different times: when the heart pumps (systolic pressure) and when it stops pumping being at rest (diastolic pressure).
Both data are very important, but while smart bracelets are able to count pulsations thanks to their integrated sensors, there are other devices that help us calculate blood pressure, and they are none other than blood pressure monitors .
What types of sphygmomanometers exist?
Blood pressure can be easily calculated in two localized areas of the body, in the arm and in the wrist, so the models that we will find on the market will differ mainly due to this characteristic. They all work the same way, so you won’t find differences for that aspect. The only thing that will limit the use of one model or another is the circumference of the arm, since in people with a circumference greater than 47 centimeters they will find more facilities in a wrist model, which cover circumferences of almost 22 centimeters.
Where you could see improvements are in the additional functionalities, such as connectivity or ease of use, so we are going to leave you with some of the best models that you can find on the market.
Withings BPM Core
Type: Arm | Features: Blood pressure, electrocardiogram, digital stethoscope | Connectivity: Wifi and Bluetooth
This intelligent digital blood pressure monitor is characterized by offering a very careful design, although its main identity is the connectivity it offers. Thanks to an application for Android and iOS we will be able to perform measurements of heart rate, blood pressure and even electrocardiograms. To make matters worse, it also includes a digital stethoscope with which to detect most common heart valve diseases.
The best
- Design
- Connectivity and Withings ecosystem
- The most complete on the market
Worst
- Price
OMRON Healthcare X7
Type: Arm | Features: Blood pressure, detection of atrial fibrillation | Connectivity: Bluetooth
One of the brands with the most presence on the market of blood pressure monitors is OMRON. This company has numerous certifications from many healthcare organizations, making them highly reliable and recommended products. How could it be otherwise, they have a smart version to connect with our mobile phone, the Healthcare X7, a very complete model.
The best
- Design
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Atrial fibrillation detection
- Easy-to-read large number display
Worst
- The control module is kind of big
- Cables can disturb
OMRON EVOLV
Type: Arm | Features: Blood pressure | Connectivity: Bluetooth
This is OMRON’s most advanced model, as it simplifies the product into an all-in-one design that eliminates additional accessories, tubes and cables. In addition, it has quite interesting technologies with automatic inflation according to the person, and the detection of irregular heartbeats.
The best
- All-in-one design
- Simplicity of use
- Without cables
- Start working at the touch of a button
Worst
- The price
Withings BPM Connect
Type: Arm | Features: Blood pressure | Connectivity: Bluetooth
Another Withings model is the BPM Connect, a simpler version of the BPM Core that lacks as many sensors as its big brother, but is focused on delivering blood pressure data clearly and effectively. Like other models of the brand, it has the requirements of European standards for medical equipment, making it a reliable model for all kinds of uses.
The best
- Compact and portable design
- 6-month battery life
- Easy to use
Worst
- Somewhat more expensive than other similar models
Braun iCheck 7
Type: Wrist | Features: Blood pressure | Connectivity: Bluetooth
This doll model attracts attention for its small size and minimalist design. It has a single button with which to do the reading and a screen in which to see the values quickly, although we can connect it to our mobile phone to see everything in more detail. Represents the values with colors according to the WHO recommendations.
The best
- Compact and portable design
- Quick readings
- Very easy to use
Worst
- Small screen that makes you depend on the mobile application
KooGeek sphygmomanometer
Type: Arm | Features: Blood pressure | Connectivity: Bluetooth and wifi
Koogeek is a brand that has accessories of all kinds, especially those dedicated to computers and laptops. Considering that, you may be surprised to see this model of digital blood pressure monitor in its catalog, but the truth is that it has the certification of the US FDA and the EC regulations of the European Community. Its appearance is reminiscent of an iPod mini, so it may make more than one smile.
The best
- Economic price
- Stores profiles of up to 16 users
- Easy to use
Worst
- Build quality
- Display technology