Knowing the best pulse oximeter devices currently on the market can help you decide which is best for you so you can monitor your health in this time of uncertainty.
A pulse oximeter is a little device that’s placed on your finger, toe, or earlobe to monitor your vitals (pulse and blood oxygen levels). Although it’s been used for decades, COVID-19’s effect on lung capacity brought more awareness to the importance of tracking oxygen levels.
The pandemic has changed the use of these devices that were once used exclusively by doctors and other medical professionals. Now, many are choosing to monitor their health on their own in order to prevent unnecessary exposure at doctor’s offices and to give peace of mind.
Our Top 3 Recommendations
1. Nonin Connect 3245 Bluetooth Pulse Oximeter
Features
- Accurate
- Self-adjustable
- Two-year warranty
Price: From $215.00
2. Innovo Deluxe iP900AP Pulse Oximeter
Features
- Clinically-tested accuracy
- Sound alarm can be muted
- Warranty
Price: From $36.99
3. iHealth PO3 Air Pulse Oximeter
Features
- Clinically tested
- Hypoallergenic finger chamber
- One-year warranty
Price: From $59.99
Best Fingertip Pulse Oximeter for 2022
Beurer PO60 Bluetooth Digital Pulse Oximeter
Price from $59.99
Pros
- Accurate
- Easy to use
- Data transfer via Bluetooth
- Automatic shutdown
- Five-year warranty
Cons
- Syncing and connectivity problems are possible
The PO60 pulse oximeter accurately measures your heart rate and oxygen saturation levels, displaying the results in numbers and graphs on an LED display. Normal oxygen levels fall between 90% and 100% unless you have a lung or cardiovascular disease or anemia, and as such, it’s good to consult a doctor to get your baseline levels first, especially if you suffer from these conditions.
This painless, easy-to-use product has a self-adjusting pulse oximeter finger clamp that works best on different finger sizes and people of different ages. It suits people who want to track their pulse and arterial blood saturation at home, especially if they have heart conditions or pulmonary diseases.
Use it easily by placing it on your finger and pressing the button. You can adjust display brightness and view, and if you forget to switch it off, it will automatically shut down after 15 minutes of non-activity.
Memory storage of the device holds 100 data spaces for 100 instantaneous measurements. It isn’t the best pulse oximeter for continuously monitoring pulse and SpO2 rates, however, as it’s not designed for that purpose.
Beurer designs a lot of its products to be compatible with the Beurer HealthManager app. This device, too, can be connected to the smartphone app (or your PC) via Bluetooth so you can monitor how the data changes over time and import an unlimited number of readings.
Two AAA batteries are included, and the low battery indicator warns you when it’s low. PO60 also comes with a belt pouch and lanyard, so you can carry your best fingertip pulse oximeter with you wherever you go.
The only possible problems you can encounter with this device are connectivity and data syncing issues. That’s why you should check your phone compatibility beforehand by checking the list available on the website. If you’re experiencing further problems, feel free to contact their Florida-based customer service.
Nonin Connect 3245 Bluetooth Pulse Oximeter
Price from $215.00
Pros
- Accurate
- Self-adjustable
- Suitable for people with dark skin
- Two-year warranty
Cons
- The app isn’t available for Android
This American-made Nonin pulse oximeter is on the FDA-approved pulse oximeter list. It’s made with the same technology as pro-grade oximeters, but you can get it without a prescription.
It’s clinically tested and proven to be accurate up to +/-2 in the range of 70–100% SpO2, detecting the pulse range from 18 to 321 beats per minute with the accuracy of +/-3 in the range of 20–250 BPM.
Nonin’s pulse oximeters work on people with dark skin and low perfusion. Self-adjustment supports fingers from 8 to 25.4 mm (0.3–1.0 in) in thickness, meaning it fits fingers of all sizes, from children to adults, so it may be the best pulse oximeter for home use.
There is no On/Off button. Instead, placing the finger into the device automatically begins the reading. Inaccuracy caused by incorrect placement is impossible, as the CorrectCheck technology warns you if the finger isn’t placed correctly.
Two AAA batteries (good for approx. 2,200 spot checks) and the CD manual are included with the product., and there is an indicator if the battery is low.
The Bluetooth feature conveniently enables you to transfer data to the Apple Health app and free NoninConnect iOS app (check the compatibility on the website). Unfortunately, Android users should look for their best finger pulse oximeter elsewhere if they’re dead set on app connectivity.
NoninConnect 3245 is protected by a two-year warranty. It’s environmentally friendly and RoHS compliant without any toxic materials.
Oxiline Pulse 7 Pro
Price from $44.85
Pros
- Affordable
- Fast
- Accurate
- Long battery life
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- No app connectivity and sync features
- The screen doesn’t flip (it can’t be read from multiple positions)
Oxiline Pulse 7 Pro is one of the best pulse oximeters that are FDA-approved. In mere seconds, it accurately measures SpO2, pulse, and perfusion index. Perfusion index (PI) is a numerical representation of your pulse strength. This indicates if you should reposition your finger inside the device or warm your hands.
It shows all readouts in large red digits on a high-contrast black LED display. It’s important to mention that the display can’t be read from different angles, only from your position.
An affordable price makes this the best home pulse oximeter for those who don’t want to break their bank but still want the convenience of monitoring their pulse rate and oxygen levels at home.
An On/Off button can be used to turn the oximeter on or off, but it will shut down automatically after each use.
Pulse 7 Pro device comes with a lanyard, a user manual, and two AAA batteries. These two batteries have enough juice to last through continuous use over a six-month period, and the lanyard is super-convenient if you need to carry this little device with you.
This fingertip pulse oximeter carries a lifetime warranty and a 30-day money-back guarantee. The website accepts FSA and HSA payment funds and offers free shipping and fast delivery via FedEx. You may even get it in less than a day, for they ship the order placed before 4 PM the same day.
This device doesn’t connect to an app via Bluetooth, so you must resort to the old pen and paper method to track changes. The price, quality, and ease of use, however, make up for the lack of connectivity features. All in all, it’s probably the best FDA-approved pulse oximeter in this price range.
Innovo Deluxe iP900AP Pulse Oximeter
Price from $36.99
Pros
- Clinically-tested accuracy
- Sound alarm can be muted
- PI and plethysmograph readings
- Warranty
Cons
- Not suitable for kids under the age of 12
Meet one of the most advanced oximeters on the market. Clinically tested for accuracy, the Innovo oximeter also measures perfusion index (0.1–10%) in addition to heart rate and SpO2. It features a plethysmograph waveform reading with a visual (wave) representation of your heartbeat, which needs to be consistent for an accurate reading to occur.
Double reliability measures (PI, plethysmograph) make it one of the best-rated pulse oximeter devices on the market. The Deluxe version uses an improved sensor that corrects your small movements while using the device, thus improving reliability.
SpO2 measurement accuracy is +/-2% in the range of 35–100%, while pulse rate accuracy is +/-2 BPM in 25–250 BPM. All readouts are displayed on a multi-directional OLED display with six layout options and adjustable brightness.
This version has some more upgrades in contrast with the previous version. A sound alarm has been included in the Deluxe version of Innovo’s best pulse oximeter to beep whenever it detects a pulse and to warn you if your blood oxygen saturation and pulse rate aren’t within the manually set limits. If the constant beeping gets on your nerves, don’t worry, you can mute it.
Battery life is 40 hours, and two AAA batteries are included, as well as a lanyard. To get a warranty, fill the registration form available on the website, and send your warranty claim with proof of purchase to the e-mail address they provide.
You can also get Innovo’s best pulse oximeter on Amazon, though it often goes out of stock. Before you purchase this pulse oximeter, you must know two things: It’s not a medical device, so it should only be used for sport, aviation, or at-home spot checks, and it probably won’t work on tiny fingers as it’s not recommended for children below 12 years of age.
Wellue O2Ring
Price from $169.00
Pros
- Perfect for sleep apnea monitoring
- Exports data to a smart device
- Adjustable vibration alarm
- Rechargeable
- One-year warranty
Cons
- You may need to charge it every day
The O2 ring is one of the top-rated pulse oximeter devices for continuous monitoring of oxygen levels, heart rate, and body movements overnight with medical accuracy.
It measures data each second but records in four-second intervals and stores it in a built-in memory, or it can export data via Bluetooth to your phone, laptop, PC, or tablet. Built-in memory has four session spaces with about ten hours per each. All software and apps are free and Android/iOS compatible, and the website lists computer and phone requirements.
Many users find that this is the best pulse oximeter for a respiratory therapist-aided sleep study because you can save this data in CVS or PDF, print it, and share it with your doctor when you’re doing a home sleep study.
The data will clearly show how often your oxygen levels drop more than 4% in one night and how long it’s below 90%. In addition, you can see timecodes of when all of this happens. Of course, you can check your SpO2 and pulse rate anytime. Just tap the circle key on the device to reveal a column on the right that shows your pulse strength.
We found that this ring is the best pulse oximeter for sleep apnea monitoring. A silent vibration will turn on if this pulse ox detects irregular pulse (high or low) or low oxygen levels.
The vibration intensity is customizable for SpO2 and pulse rate separately (manually or on the smartphone), so it will only wake you up when needed. You can turn the alarm off completely. No beeping or buzzing sounds makes for a better sleep.
This FDA-registered O2Ring is made from non-slip silicone, and it’s exceptionally light, comfortable, and won’t hurt your finger. Users prefer this oximeter to traditional clip-style ones for style and comfort. If you ask us, it’s the best pulse oximeter in 2021 once everything’s considered.
It’s powered by a USB rechargeable lithium-polymer battery that holds a charge of 12 to 16 hours, so depending on how much you use it, you may need to charge it every day.
Wellue backs this sleek device with a one-year warranty, and the website also offers 10% off if you enter their code and 20% off if you join the newsletter. Additionally, Wellue will issue a refund within 30 days if you find this isn’t the best oximeter for home use.
iHealth PO3 Air Pulse Oximeter
Price from $59.99
Pros
- Clinically tested
- Hypoallergenic finger chamber
- App available for iOS and Android
- One-year warranty
Cons
- Possible pairing problems
iHealth’s PO3 is FDA-listed and clinically tested to meet US and EU standards, making it a well-known device in today’s age of telemedicine.
It’s a Bluetooth smart technology device that connects to a free app called MyVitals for iOS and Android. It stores data in the application and in the free and secure iHealth cloud, and when not connected, it stores up to 100 readings in its memory.
Its data monitoring makes it the best pulse oximeter for nurses and doctors participating in iHealth’s Remote Patient Monitoring program.
This pulse ox features an Advanced Accuracy algorithm that precisely spot-measures SpO2 (up to 99%), heart rate, plethysmograph, and PI, displaying them on the LED display. The MyVitals app enables you to see the plethysmograph and PI in real-time.
Some reviews stated issues with connectivity and syncing, and as such, make sure you check phone compatibility on the company website before you make your final purchase.
The PO3 may very well be the best pulse oximeter for COVID oxygen level monitoring, and it also comes with a hypoallergenic and latex-free medical-grade silicone “chamber” for your finger.
This pulse ox is powered by an integrated Lithium-ion battery that’s rechargeable with a micro USB charging cable. Instructions indicate that you should charge this oximeter before the first use, and after eight seconds of no activity, an automatic shutdown will ensure the device is off and the battery gets saved.
This is the best pulse oximeter if you’re someone who is regularly on the go, as it includes a lanyard, a start guide, and a user manual. Both documents are available to download, and having a lanyard to attach your device on is always handy, especially when you’re on the move.
iHealth is a pretty affordable brand and has incredible California-based customer support, and offers a one-year warranty.
How Does a Pulse Oximeter Work?
A pulse oximeter is a small device that attaches to your finger, toe, or earlobe and measures oxygen saturation. Oxygen saturation indicates the amount of oxygen the hemoglobin in your red blood cells absorbs and is measured in a percentage.
The process of measuring oxygen saturation is entirely painless. The device shines two small lights (a red and an infrared one), and if your blood carries a lot of oxygen, it will absorb more IR light and let more red light pass through. If there’s not enough oxygen, blood cells appear bluer because they let IR light pass through.
How to Measure Oxygen Levels at Home?
Follow the instructions on how to prepare your body for testing (e.g., removing nail polish) and how long you need to keep the device on. Place the device on your finger, toe, or earlobe, and remove the device once you take the measurement.
Don’t use a pulse oximeter when you’re moving or running around. For the readings to be accurate, you must be completely still, having rested for at least five minutes.
Which Finger is Best for a Pulse Oximeter?
Medical technicians usually place the pulse oximeter on a patient’s index finger. A study done on 37 volunteers shows different results, however, on the most accurate place to measure.
The study showed that the best finger for the pulse oximetry test is the middle finger on your dominant hand. Alternatively, the dominant hand’s thumb was a close second. Left-handed people should put the pulse oximeter on their left middle finger or the left thumb.
Tips for Using and Taking Care of Your Fingertip Pulse Oximeter
- Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely
- Remove nail polish or a false nails from the finger you’re placing a pulse ox on
- Hold still while the reading is taking place
- Don’t trust smartphone apps that claim to measure your pulse and SpO2 by themselves
- Write down a baseline reading if you can
- If you have COVID, pay attention to other symptoms too, and be in contact with your doctor. Remember, even the best pulse oximeter can’t detect COVID on its own
- If you have henna or permanent tattoos on your fingers, you may not get an accurate reading
- Remove the batteries from your device if you’re not planning on using it until days later
- You can clean the LED sensor with a soft dry cloth and the casing and finger chamber with a slightly damp soft cloth or a cotton bud moistened with 70% Isopropyl alcohol. You should also disinfect the finger before placing the device on it
People Also Ask
It’s difficult to identify the most accurate pulse oximeter. The market is highly saturated, and most products use similar technologies that all carry a similar accuracy. There are two categories, however: prescription and over-the-counter.
Prescription pulse oximeters are hospital-grade and ensure quality and accuracy, as well as FDA approval. Over-the-counter products are a better option if you’re looking for affordability, casual use, or can’t get a prescription.
You can get a pulse oximeter from your local drugstore or online without a prescription. It’s noteworthy, however, that many OTC pulse oximeters on the market are not intended for use in medical settings but rather for sport and aviation.
Still, there are many devices that you can get without prescription that are listed on the FDA’s 510(k) list. These are very close to the accuracy of hospital oximeters and are accurate up to +/-2 or +/-3 digits when measuring your heart rate and blood oxygen levels.
While the competition was steep, Wellue’s O2 ring gets our best FDA-approved title. Not only does this device continuously monitor SpO2 and pulse rate, but it also monitors body movement through the night — perfect for sleep apnea monitoring.
It records data in four-second intervals, stores it in the integrated memory, or exports it via Bluetooth to your smart devices (iOS/Android/Windows). An adjustable vibration alarm warns you when your pulse is irregular, or SpO2 is low, preventing unwanted wakeups from beeping or alarms.
As a bonus, it’s rechargeable, comfortable to wear, and comes with a warranty.
The best way to choose a pulse oximeter is to go to the doctor and ask for a prescription or recommendation. In addition, your baseline levels can be tested, so when you do receive your device, you’ll know what your normal is.
Shopping for a retail version is also a good option, in which case reading reviews and establishing a price range will help make a good choice. If you need a sleep apnea monitoring device, make sure the device does continuous SpO2 monitoring.
Many top-rated US hospitals use Nonin and Masimo pulse oximeters which are clinically tested and FDA-certified. These devices use cutting-edge technology to monitor SpO2 and heart rate, minimizing the effect of movements, skin tone, and low perfusion on reading accuracy.
For example, Masimo’s Signal Extraction Technology (SET) separates the arterial signals from noise sources and improves readings even when patients have darker skin tone and low perfusion. Nonin has similar technology.
UK hospitals also use Nonin and Masimo products, indicating that it’s probably the best pulse oximeter available.
