Best blood pressure monitors in Australia

The best blood pressure monitors in Australia

• Best overall blood pressure monitor: Omron HEM 7121J Fully Automatic Digital Blood Pressure Monitor
• Best wrist blood pressure monitor: Omron Gold Wireless Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor
• Best fitness tracker with a blood pressure monitor: Popglory Smartwatch
• Best blood pressure arm cuff: Beurer BM57 Bluetooth Arm Blood Pressure Monitor
• Best portable blood pressure monitor: MEDca Portable Cuff Blood Pressure Monitor
• Best blood pressure monitor for iPhone users: Withings BPM Connect Wireless Blood Pressure Monitor

How did we pick this list?

For this list, we picked blood pressure monitors based on actual customer reviews and ratings on Amazon and key product features. For every category, we carefully chose parameters based on our research and determined products with the highest review score within those parameters.

Read more detail on our methodology below.

Why we chose it

We picked the Omron HEM 7121J Fully Automatic Digital Blood Pressure Monitor as the best overall blood pressure monitor available online. It has a rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from over 900 Amazon reviews.

A compact and fully automatic blood pressure monitor, this Omron model operates on an oscillometric principle to produce precise measurements and results. It has an easy one-touch operation and IntelliSense technology for controlled inflation. Apart from a quick deflation release valve, this can also detect an irregular heartbeat and has a body movement indicator. It is powered by 4 AAA batteries as well.

Customers gave positive feedback on the device's ease of use, accurate results and sturdy construction. It can easily detect even the slightest movement and irregular heartbeat, making it ideal for home use. Reviewers said that the cuff is durable and comfy. However, several others wished it had a memory function for better BP tracking. Its battery life is quite weak as well – one critic said the power drained after just a couple of weeks.

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Why we chose it

For the best wrist blood pressure monitor, we recommend Omron's Gold Wireless Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor. On Amazon, it has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

The Omron Gold Wireless Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor features the brand's Heart Zone Guidance to help guide your wrist to the proper position. It also has Ultra-Silent inflation for quiet measurement detection. Additionally, it can manage and track up to 100 readings for 2 users, but unlimited readings and users are possible using the Omron app. It has Bluetooth connectivity as well.

The general sentiment is that this is a fantastic option for multiple users. It's expensive at over $180, but it has heaps of helpful features, including a memory function to help you stay on top of your blood pressure. Customers said it provides accurate and consistent measurements, while others mentioned that the free app is easy to set up. One major con for some customers is the cumbersome operation – you need to position your wrist at a specific height (about 12 inches from your sitting position) before the device starts working.

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Why we chose it

With a rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars on Amazon, we selected the Popglory Smartwatch as the best fitness tracker with a blood pressure monitor.

This Popglory smartwatch can monitor blood pressure and blood oxygen, thanks to its advanced sensor. It comes with a companion app, HeroBand III, where you can store your data for easy tracking. The watch also has a responsive touchscreen and 7 sports modes for recording all of your daily activities, including steps, calorie intake and sleep status. It is compatible with iOs and Android smartphones as well.

According to most buyers, this is a great, budget-friendly smartwatch with lots of bells and whistles that even some pricier models don't have. This can also be used to monitor your calls and texts. Customers loved that a full charge lasts up to 10 days of active use. Some reviewers reported that its blood pressure measurement isn't as accurate as other products in the market, but this seems to be an isolated issue.

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Why we chose it

We chose the Beurer BM57 Bluetooth Arm Blood Pressure Monitor as the best arm cuff option available online. It has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars on Amazon.

This fully automatic blood pressure monitor features an extra-large display for easy reading and a universal upper arm cuff that fits most people. It has inflation technology for fast and convenient measurement and 2x60 memory spaces, so you can better monitor your BP. The company also claims it can detect arrhythmia and record the average measured values for the last 7 days. It can be connected via Bluetooth as well.

Customers gave positive feedback on the device's large display, accurate measurement and easy-to-use controls. The upper arm cuff is soft and breathable, while the Bluetooth connectivity helps transfer readings to any smartphone. Reviewers also said it's compact and lightweight, suitable for travel. The device is powered by 2 AA batteries. However, several customers found that you need to replace them at least once a month. Its mobile app is quite helpful, but buyers complained about its complex set-up.

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Why we chose it

For portability, we recommend MEDca's Portable Cuff Blood Pressure Monitor as the best one. On Amazon, it has a rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars.

MEDca's Portable Cuff Blood Pressure Monitor features a large backlit LCD screen for easy reading. It also has a memory function for storing up to 60 measurements. The manufacturer claims it has Spanish and English reading capabilities, providing accurate results in under a minute.

Apart from its compact size, customers praised the product's durable build, affordable pricing and accurate readings. It is easy to use, providing precise measurements within minutes. Customers also loved its memory function, allowing them to stay on top of their BP with date and time stamps for better monitoring. Others found the wrist cuff thin and scratchy, but this seems to be a minor concern.

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Why we chose it

Our pick for the best blood pressure monitor for iPhone users is Withings' BPM Connect Wireless Blood Pressure Monitor. It has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from more than 5,600 Amazon reviews.

This smart medical device provides accurate blood pressure and heart rate measurements. It also offers instant feedback both on the device and its companion app. The readings are colour-coded, making them simple and easy to understand. Apart from its slim design, this BP monitor has a rechargeable battery that only needs charging after 6 months of use.

Apart from its aesthetically pleasing design, customers gave positive feedback on the device's durable cuff, easy-to-read display and accurate readings. The LCD is large and well-lit, allowing you to use the device even in dark conditions. Several others loved that their measurements are instantly synced to their smartphones for on-the-go tracking. While setting up the app via Wi-Fi is quite a challenge, most customers said it's worth it.

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Amazon prices last updated on 19 December, 2024 at 04:00 ameBay prices last updated on 18 December, 2024 at 05:15 pm

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What is a blood pressure monitor?

A blood pressure monitor is a device used to measure the pressure of the blood in your blood vessels, aka your blood pressure. Your blood pressure will vary depending on the time of day, your activity level, your salt and liquid intake and any medications you may be taking.

Blood pressure is measured as systolic pressure over diastolic pressure. Systolic pressure is the pressure of your heartbeat and diastolic pressure is the pressure in between your heartbeats. According to the Heart Foundation, optimal blood pressure is 120/80 mmHg. A regular blood pressure reading of 139/89 mmHg or more is considered to be high blood pressure or hypertension. Uncontrolled high blood pressure is one of the biggest risk factors for heart disease and can lead to a stroke, heart attack or cardiovascular disease.

With regular monitoring, you can get a better understanding of what affects your blood pressure and be alert to changes before they lead to greater problems. Your doctor or another medical professional can tell you how regularly you should be monitoring your blood pressure.

Who should use a home blood pressure monitor?

While anyone can benefit from tracking their blood pressure, doctors typically recommend regular monitoring for the following groups:

• People who have been diagnosed with hypertension
• People who have high blood pressure
• People who have risk factors for high blood pressure
• Pregnant women with hypertension or preeclampsia
• Anyone who is taking blood pressure medication
• Those whose nerves cause their blood pressure to rise while at the doctor's office, making it difficult to get an accurate reading

If you are unsure if you should be monitoring your blood pressure regularly at home, ask your GP or another medical practitioner.

Types of blood pressure monitors

Blood pressure monitors are available in both automatic and manual models and are designed to be placed on the upper arm, wrist or finger.

Automatic vs manual

Automatic blood pressure monitors are generally easier to use than manual models as they inflate with just the touch of a button. Manual models require the user to inflate them by hand pumping a rubber bulb. Most people without medical training find the automatic models easier to use, but neither type is considered more accurate than the other, so choose whichever type you prefer.

Upper arm vs wrist vs finger cuffs

	Pros	Cons
Upper arm cuff	The most accurate type as it is easy to keep the cuff at heart height The only type of cuff recommended by the Heart Foundation	Can be difficult to put on one-handed
Wrist cuff	Easy to put on without help Smaller and more portable than arm cuffs	Not recommended by the Heart Foundation Generally considered to be less accurate than upper arm cuffs Difficult to keep the cuff at heart level
Finger cuff	Very easy to put on Small enough to fit in your pocket	Not recommended by the Heart Foundation Difficult to get accurate readings Not widely available in Australia

There are also a few companies who have developed apps to read blood pressure. They work by picking up your heartbeat when you place your smartphone near your heart, but they are widely considered to be inaccurate.

How to compare blood pressure monitors

Look for a device that is easy for you to use and fits comfortably on your arm. While cuffs are adjustable within a certain range, you should still check that it fits properly to make sure you can get accurate readings.

When looking for a blood pressure monitor, consider the following:

Are blood pressure monitors covered by health insurance?

It depends on the health insurance provider. Generally, blood pressure monitors are only covered under comprehensive extras policies. For more information, check out our comparison of health insurers who cover blood pressure monitors.

8 tips to help you get accurate blood pressure readings

1. Make sure you know exactly how to use your device. If you are unsure if you are using it correctly, bring it to your doctor and ask them to watch your technique.
2. Consistency is key. Try to measure your blood pressure at the same time and in the same conditions each day.
3. Try to be relaxed and undistracted when taking a reading.
4. If you are taking a seated reading, make sure to sit still with your legs uncrossed, your feet flat on the floor and your back supported.
5. If you are taking a standing blood pressure reading, wait at least two minutes after you stand up before taking the reading.
6. Don't use your blood pressure cuff on top of your clothing.
7. No matter what type of cuff you are using, the cuff should remain at heart level for the duration of the reading.
8. Remember to write down the readings if they are not automatically stored in your device. If anything of note happened prior to a reading, write it down so you can mention it to your doctor.

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Frequently asked questions

• Are smart watch blood pressure monitors accurate?

  Most experts recommend using a monitor that measures blood pressure in the upper arm instead of the wrist. However, wrist models like smart watches can still give accurate readings when used properly.

• How do I properly monitor my blood pressure?

  Have your doctor check your device for accuracy before using it. Let the doctor watch you use the blood pressure monitor to see if you're doing it correctly.

  As for readings, do it twice a day – in the morning before eating or medicating and at night. Remember not to measure your blood pressure the moment you wake up. You should avoid caffeine, tobacco and alcohol for at least 30 minutes before taking a measurement.

  Always use the same arm, wrist or finger when taking a reading. The monitor should also be placed on bare skin and not over your clothes to avoid inaccurate reading.

• Does an incorrect cuff fit cause reading errors on my blood pressure monitor?

  A monitor with a large cuff can cause a reading error. A tight fit also causes inaccuracy. According to the Mayo Clinic, the inflatable part of your cuff monitor should cover around 40% of your upper arm's circumference. The cuff should also cover 80% of the area from elbow to shoulder.

• Is a manual blood pressure monitor better than digital?

  Manual blood pressure monitors use a cuff that wraps around the patient arm or wrist, a rubber squeeze bulb and a gauge to read blood pressure. The measurement can be seen on a manual blood pressure monitor's dial as the needle moves and the cuff rises or falls due to pressure. The device is very accurate, but the operation is quite difficult for home use.

  On the other hand, digital monitors are much easier to operate at home. They also have a cuff that wraps around the arm or wrist and a rubber squeeze ball. Several models automatically inflate using button controls. Digital units have a screen that shows the readout. The device is also quite accurate, but reading errors are more frequent if the patient moves when using it.

• How often should I calibrate my blood pressure monitor?

  It's recommended to calibrate your home blood pressure at least once a year. Some models only require calibration every 2 years, while others don't need this at all. Check with your manufacturer's guide for instructions.

*Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, National Health Survey 2014/15
**Source: Finder, Coronary Heart Disease Report 2017