This page contains information on home ECG monitors, you can find out more about clinical Electrocardiogram (ECG) tests here.  

If you’re looking for a way to monitor your heart, it can be difficult to know where to start. You might have seen smartwatches, rings or portable ECG devices advertised, all claiming to offer insights into your heart health. This guide explains the different types of heart monitors available, what they can and can’t do, and helps you decide which option may be right for you. 

Understanding the different types of heart monitors 
 

There are a few different ways to monitor your heart, and each serves a different purpose. Understanding the differences can help set clear expectations: 
 
Fitness trackers and smartwatches: Devices such as watches or rings can track heart rate trends and activity over time. Some also offer a basic, single‑lead ECG feature. They’re useful for spotting general patterns, but readings can be affected by movement, and not all devices are clinically validated. 
 
Portable ECG monitors: Handheld devices like KardiaMobile are clinically validated and designed to record a medical‑grade ECG when you activate them. They're particularly useful for detecting irregularities with your heart rate and rhythm when you are having symptoms such as palpitations. 

Home blood pressure and ECG monitors: These combine blood pressure measurement with ECG recording. They use clinically validated ECG technology but are designed for use at home rather than on the go. 
 
Clinical ECG tests: These are performed in healthcare settings or prescribed by a doctor. They often involve multiple electrodes attached to your body and provide the most detailed and comprehensive assessment. 

Quick comparison 

Our heart monitors 

KardiaMobile ECG monitors (single‑lead and 6‑lead) 

KardiaMobile devices are small, portable ECG monitors that connect to a smartphone app. Both the single‑lead and 6‑lead versions are clinically approved and designed to record a 30‑second ECG when you place your fingers on the sensors. 

The key difference is the number of leads recorded. A single‑lead ECG gives a simple snapshot of heart rhythm, while a 6‑lead ECG provides more detailed information that can be useful for people who need to share regular readings with their doctor. 

Best for: quick checks, peace of mind, and detecting symptoms such as palpitations when they occur. 

Pros:

 • Small and portable 
• Quick 30‑second readings 
• Clinically validated 
• Easy to share results 

Things to consider:

• Requires a smartphone and app 
• You need to stop and activate the device to take a reading 

Omron Complete Blood Pressure Monitor + ECG 

The Omron Complete combines a clinically approved blood pressure monitor with ECG recording in one device. It’s designed for home use and allows you to monitor blood pressure and heart rhythm during the same session. 

Best for: people managing blood pressure alongside heart data (rate & rhythm) monitoring at home. 

Pros:

• Measures blood pressure and records ECG 
• Clinically validated 
• Stores and syncs readings 
• Designed for regular home use 

Things to consider:

• Larger device 
• Less portable than handheld ECG monitors 

Choosing the right heart monitor 

The right heart monitor depends on what you want to track and how often. Portable ECG monitors are ideal for occasional symptoms, while combined blood pressure and ECG devices suit regular home monitoring. 

Home heart monitors can support your understanding of your heart health, but they don’t replace medical advice. If you experience symptoms such as chest pain, dizziness or shortness of breath, always seek medical help. 

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 If you’d like more information or help in choosing the right portable ECG monitor, get in touch with our expert team. We’re here to help.