10 Best Pulse Oximeter 2024 – Review & Buyer’s Guide

The best pulse oximeter is a very useful tool. One that you can use to measure pulse rate along with oxygen level! And the device performs these two functions in a quick and most accurate manner. That’s the most striking aspect, isn’t it?

But here comes the problem. The retail market consists of all kinds of pulse oximeters. So how do you go about choosing the right one for your needs?

Well, to be honest, you don’t have to. Because I’ve already done that! I tested several high-ranking models currently available. And based on the results,

1. I shortlisted as many as 10 options for you. So it’s time to get to that part of the article!

Best Pulse Oximeter: 10 Top Picks

Photo credit: livestrong.com

So what you see below is a comparison table that gives you a basic idea of what lies ahead. And what lies ahead is a detailed review of each of the products mentioned in the table. Including both pros and cons!

Pulse Oximeter Name	Our rating	Type Of Oximeter	Display
Easy@Home Deluxe Easy@Home Deluxe	#1(Editor choice)	Finger Oximeter	4 display directions
SantamedicalDeluxe SM-110SantamedicalDeluxe SM-110	#2	Finger Oximeter	2 display directions
Innovo Deluxe Innovo Deluxe	#3	Finger Oximeter	6 display directions
CMS 50-DL CMS 50-DL	#4	Finger Oximeter	Only 1 display direction
Vive Precision Vive Precision	#5	Finger Oximeter	Only 1 display direction
iHealth Fingertip Pulse OximeteriHealth Fingertip Pulse Oximeter	#6	Finger Oximeter	Only 1 display direction
Nonin Medical GO2 Nonin Medical GO2	#7	Finger Oximeter	Only 1 display direction
Concord Sapphire Concord Sapphire	#8	Finger Oximeter	2 display directions
Zacurate Pro Series 500DL Zacurate Pro Series 500DL	#9	Finger Oximeter	Only 1 display direction
Santamedical Generation 2 OLED Santamedical Generation 2 OLED	#10	Finger Oximeter	4 display directions

1. Easy@Home Deluxe – The Best High-Quality Pulse Oximeter

The best pulse oximeter is a unit that delivers accurate results, right? But the device should also be durable, something that you can use for a long, long time.

In that case, allow me to discuss the features of the Easy@Home Deluxe Fingertip Pulse Oximeter. It gives you the opportunity to check your pulse rate along with SpO2 quickly. All you need to do is push a single button. And it provides the most accurate readings. These are present in the form of numbers.

Along with bar graph and waveform graph (known as Plethysmograph)! You should know that the graph offers visual indications. Of weak and irregular heartbeat! And also of incorrect readings!

On top of that, the bright OLED display rotates in 4 different directions. So you get many angles to view the results from. What’s more is that the Easy@HomeOximeter contains exceptional AAA batteries.

These two batteries last for as long as 30 hours despite continuous working. Then comes the automatic shut off technology. It turns off the unit if it has been inactive for even five seconds.

So you can rely on this FDA-approved pulse oximeter. For both performance and durability.

Measuring pulse and the level of oxygen in your blood is a quick and easy task. Especially when using the Easy@Home Deluxe Fingertip Pulse Oximeter. It fits both adults and children. And the readings that you get are accurate and visible from any angle.

Also, the quality of construction is equally remarkable. Not many oximeters have the ability to deliver this kind of long-lasting value.

Unfortunately, the device’s battery plate is a bit troublesome. It is prone to becoming loose or coming off more than you can imagine. So replacing those batteries might not be such a pleasant experience.

 

2. SantamedicalDeluxe SM-110 – The Best Pulse Oximeter for Athletes

Are you a sports enthusiast? If yes, then the ideal pick for you is the SantamedicalDeluxe SM-110 Finger Pulse Oximeter.

The device received an upgrade only recently to include advanced internal components. But first, you should know that it’s FDA and CE approved. So you can rely on the oximeter to check your pulse and level of blood oxygen. The little product offers accurate and fast results.

It shows you real-time readings for blood oxygen. Along with an invaluable pleth bar graph for the pulse rate! And the accuracy of both the readings is quite remarkable.

Apart from being suitable for complete finger sizes. The SantamedicalFinger PulseOximeter features a fantastic display. The two-way screen gives you the opportunity to view the results from both the sides.

All you have to do to gain access to such convenience is press a button.

Overall, easy usability is a big part of the picture. As for the batteries, they offer an impressive 30-hour life. And that too with a useful automatic shut off component! So every little aspect is well taken care of. Especially when talking about performance!

The LED display of oximeters is among the most important parts, right? Without a bright display, you can’t use the device under low light conditions.

With that in mind, you’ll appreciate the display of the Santamedical Deluxe SM-110 Oximeter. From bright sunlight to dark surroundings, the tiny machine works exceptionally well in any setting.

Now for the downside, the spring closure of the finger is quite inadequate. While using, it might fall off your finger when inverted. So this can prove to be a nuisance during operation.

 

3. Innovo Deluxe – The Most Advanced Pulse Oximeter

If what you want is better features, look no further than this particular option. The Innovo Deluxe Fingertip Pulse Oximeter contains Perfusion Index and Plethysmograph.

These are the two most advanced components, which I’ll explain in a bit. So you can expect the device to show you proper readings for your pulse and blood oxygen. You get to view the results on a high-res OLED screen. Now, this is the kind of display you can turn in six different directions.

So as far as usage goes, there’s tons of versatility in that department. Moving on, it’s time to discuss the Perfusion Index and Plethysmograph. The latter displays your heartbeat in the form of visual representation. And the former shows numerical representation.

The type that measures the pulse strength! And the performance of both the features is not only accurate but consistent too. Furthermore, this best pulse oximeter offers an auditory alarm.

This you can use to receive notifications. Whenever your pulse andSpO2 levels appear beyond the limit! In all, the Innovo Deluxe Fingertip Pulse Oximeter offers the most advanced performance.

And you don’t even have to worry about usability. As the device is easy and convenient to operate!

Let me highlight the most beneficial features in here. The Innovooximeter allows you to set limits for pressure and SpO2. And if these limits are crossed, the alarm does an excellent job of warning you.

On top of that, there’s the Perfusion Index and Plethysmograph. These give you accurate readings. Then come the adjustable brightness and multi-directional screen. For maximum convenience!

What more could you have asked for, right!

Sadly, the quality of the product is not all that impressive. Upon testing, I found the unit to be cheap, design-wise. And that can interfere with durability.

 

4. CMS 50-DL – The Best Budget-Friendly Pulse Oximeter

For the best pulse oximeter with an affordable price tag, try the CMS 50-DL Pulse Oximeter. The FDA-approved machine is suitable for home, sports, and professional purposes.

So it comes as a big surprise to know that the unit is also budget-friendly. It provides an accurate, easy way for checking pulse and blood oxygen.

The bright, clear LED display presents the readings. In all types of environments, including bright sunlight and dark surroundings!

As for the battery life, you’ll be glad to know that the device automatically shuts off when not in use. All it takes is five seconds for the auto feature to take control.

Plus, the CMS 50-DL Pulse Oximeter is lightweight and compact. So carrying it around is not a tedious task at all. To sum it up, it’s quite a remarkable model with both basic and advanced features.

The on-the-go pulse and blood oxygen reading is the most appealing factor. And you can subject it to sports, professional, and home uses.

Allow me to use this section to highlight the AAA batteries of the device. It comes with two of them that run for as long as 40 hours. Despite continuous operation!

Plus, there’s the battery indicator to notify when it’s low. Also included is automatic shut off that contributes to further conserving power.

The major disappointment comes in the form of a reversed view in this case. The invaluable finger meter doesn’t face in your direction. And you might take some time to get used to that.

 

5. Vive Precision – The Most Accurate Pulse Oximeter

For accurate readings, nothing beats the Vive Precision Finger Pulse Oximeter. It gives you precise pulse rate along with blood oxygen levels. And that too in a matter of a few seconds!

The device is easy and convenient to use. Plus, it’s lightweight and portable. So it doesn’t matter if you’re a sports enthusiast or medical professional.

The product can deliver proper results. The single touch operation is another valuable characteristic responsible for success. On top of that, the spring system is self-adjusting.

That means this best pulse oximeter fits each finger size without pinching. Now let’s move on to the display.

This particular part of the unit is nothing but a vibrant, clear LED screen. It shows the pulse rate, blood oxygen, and Plethysmograph. Along with the battery life!

There’s the alarm too, which notifies you when the heartbeats become irregular. Or when the oxygen level falls below normal!

So you can rest assured knowing that the Vive Precision Oximeter is well equipped for the job.

The best part of this device is that it offers easy usability. You switch it on to achieve accurate readings. These are displayed clearly on that bright LED screen. It offers both Plethysmograph and bar graph for the pulse rate.

And there’s no need to worry about battery life either. The automatic shut off technology takes care of power-saving for you!

On the negative side, the Vive Precision Oximeter is incapable of consistent results. At least as far as accuracy goes. So that does count as a huge disappointment.

 

6. iHealth Fingertip Pulse Oximeter – The Best Pulse Oximeter with Bluetooth Connectivity

iHeart is a company that manufactures high-quality equipment. And there’s no reason to believe that the iHealth Fingertip Pulse Oximeter is any different.

This white wonder does more than measure oxygen saturation and heart rate. It even has the ability to transfer these measurements to the smartphone. Using Bluetooth technology!

Now that’s a first, isn’t it? The readings get stored for analysis in the software program. And you can also transfer them to the doctor in a timely and convenient manner. So this is why you pay more for this best pulse oximeter. The unit provides accurate, fast readings from the tablet or smartphone.

This way, you can share, track, and measure your pulse and blood oxygen. Right from the touchscreen itself!

Moving on, the iHealth Fingertip Pulse Oximeter contains lithium-ion rechargeable batteries. So if modern technology is what you prefer, you won’t find anything better than this.

And lastly, the device is light in weight. So carrying it around during activities is not such a complicated task.

All you need to do is clip the thing to the finger for precise readings. At any time and any place!

With the iHealth Fingertip Pulse Oximeter, you can store as many as 200 readings. Thanks to the addition of Bluetooth connectivity. As a result of which you can achieve deeper insights.

Based on your past and present blood oxygen graphs and charts! So now you know how and why this option has the upper hand.

Here comes the downside of the iHealth Fingertip Pulse Oximeter. When used in brightly lit settings, the screen is not easy to see.

7. Nonin Medical GO2 – The Best Pulse Oximeter for Doctors and Nurses

The Nonin Medical GO2 Fingertip Pulse Oximeter performs a single function. And that is to measure your blood oxygen accurately plus quickly.

By far, it is the best pulse oximeter for nurses and doctors. Let’s find out more! The first praiseworthy feature presents itself in the form of PureSAT technology.

This handles delivering superior accuracy. Even when oxygen saturation is low! In fact, such a technology makes the oximeter suitable for all skin tones. The pulse-by-pulse method of filtering is what it uses to get precise measurements.

The Nonin Medical GO2 Fingertip Pulse Oximeter is a portable and noninvasive device. The kind that’s easy and convenient to use at home.

The little machine provides an optimal level of pressure. So it can display accurate, fast readings of both your pulse and blood oxygen.

It has an auto on/off feature to add more convenience to the whole experience. And the bright, clear LCD screen is another important aspect that doesn’t disappoint. So with the Nonin Medical Oximeter, you have a lot to look forward to.

Every major and minor component of this particular pick works towards providing a better experience.

From the unit’s ability to deliver proper readings, thanks to the PureSAT technology.

To the size of the oximeter, which fits the fingers of children and adults. So you need not worry about design or performance.

But there is something that might let you down. It’s the amount of time the device takes to display those results. But if you’re a patient person, you’re in the clear.

 

8. Concord Sapphire – The Best Pulse Oximeter for Personal Uses

When it comes to excellent feature s, it doesn’t get any better than this. The Concord Sapphire Fingertip Pulse Oximeter offers a functionality that delivers accurate readings.

The device is the easiest to use with an extended battery life. So it’s safe for me to state that the equipment is suitable for all types of users. Including pilots, rock climbers, and also medical professionals!

You’ll be glad to know that the display is not difficult to read. Even in bright sunlight or darkness! The Concord Sapphire Fingertip Pulse Oximeter runs on AAA batteries.

The two batteries work for as long as 30 hours. Despite continuous operation! What’s more is the addition of the automatic shutdown feature. If the oximeter remains inactive for eight seconds, it will turn off on its own.

This is useful for preventing battery drain, isn’t it? So just like this, the Concord Sapphire Fingertip Pulse Oximeter performs exceptionally well. And you can expect the thing to deliver consistently accurate results each time.

So that’s a huge plus point!

Let me bring to your attention that this particular model makes use of advanced technology.

That is how it can monitor your pulse and SpO2 in the most precise manner. And the large, clear LED display presents those readings even under bright or low light.

The part that might discourage you from buying the product is this. The Concord Sapphire Fingertip Pulse Oximeter is not as sensitive as it should be.

What I mean to say is that it won’t give you readings if your hands are cold. They have to be warm enough for the thing to work properly. So a little more sensitivity would have been better!

 

9. Zacurate Pro Series 500DL – Another Best Affordable Pulse Oximeter

For a combination of high precision and budget-friendly price tag, look no further. The Zacurate Pro Series 500DL Oximeter is among the best in that category. But let me break it down for you!

The black beast may not present data in the form of graphs and bars. But it does an excellent job of displaying accurate, adequate results. The precise readings that the oximeter delivers are what make it such a popular option. That and the fact that many health professionals also use the device!

The Zacurate Pro Series 500DL Fingertip Pulse Oximeter fits children and adults. But the part that seems the most compelling is the anti-motion feature.

Unlike most other models on the list and current market, this one is not motion sensitive. And that is useful if you’re an athlete. Because it means you can use the device during exercise.

In all, the Zacurate Pro Series 500DL Fingertip Pulse Oximeter offers great value. So there’s no reason to doubt the performance level of the product.

ThePro Series 500DL Oximeter is created to make up for the failure of the CMS 50DL. The latter is a slow device. One that is pretty bad at providing accurate readings.

It was even extremely sensitive to motion. No wonder the manufacturer has paid attention to every detail in the improved version!

But there is one drawback that tends to cause a certain amount of trouble. And that is the weak battery life of this particular model. It tends to drain even with minimal use.

 

10. Santamedical Generation 2 – The Bonus Pick

The Santamedical Generation 2 OLED Fingertip Pulse Oximeter is an upgraded option. So that means you should expect nothing short of exceptional performance.

Needless to say, it measures your pulse rate along with SpO2 accurately and quickly. The useful finger clamp is self-adjusting. This means the device is perfect for all fingers sizes. Including children’s too!

As for the invaluable LED display, the screen is bright enough. So you can view real-time readings in the most convenient manner.

The Santamedical Finger Pulse Oximeter offers both wave and bar graph for the pulse rate. Plus, you can rotate the display in four different directions. All you have to do is press a single button.

What about the batteries? The two AAA batteries last for as long as 30 hours. Even when subjected to continuous use! Additionally, the unit includes auto power off.

Along with a battery indicator! So power-saving is also a part of the picture. What more do you need from the best pulse oximeter, right!

Did you know that the Santamedical Generation 2 OLED Oximeter features an adequate construction? It is designed using plastic with medical grade properties.

On top of that, the unit is portable and lightweight. This means the manufacturer has done an excellent job at providing you with a high-quality product. Upon testing, I came across a major drawback.

To get the oximeter to give me a reading, I had to position my finger in various ways. So this might turn out to be quite a nuisance to deal with.

 

Best Pulse Oximeter: Buyer’s Guide

It’s only in the recent years that the pulse oximeter device has become popular. Especially for home applications! It was quite prominent in the ‘80s. But now the useful tool has a more affordable price tag.

So what is the best pulse oximeter? It is a non-invasive, simple electronic piece of equipment that measures two things. The oxygen level in the body and your pulse rate!

You place the sensor either on the fingertip or earlobe. This sensor sends out 2 light streams; one red and the other infrared. And these lights get absorbed by both your deoxygenated blood and oxygenated blood.

Then, depending on the amount of hemoglobin absorption at the 2 different wavelengths in the bloodstream, the oximeter measures your oxygen level.

It goes without saying that our oxygen saturation varies. Common factors that tend to deliver inaccurate results are as follows.

• Weak pulse

• Cold hands

• Acrylic nails/fingernail polish

• Hand movements, etc.

If you’re a healthy person, you can expect a reading above 97 percent. It should never be less than 95 percent.

Now let’s talk about the benefits of using the best pulse oximeter.

Professional athletes and mountain climbers wear the device more than anybody else. The former requires it to track oxygen levels while performing the strenuous workout. And the latter use it to keep oxygen levels in check due to high-altitude climbing.

But the most important benefit relates to medical conditions, right?

When recovering from surgery or injury, the tool can be very useful. If you have a condition that affects your blood oxygen, then you need a device like this.

These conditions include heart failure, heart attack, lung cancer, anemia, pneumonia, and asthma. Along with COPD (chronic obtrusive pulmonary disease)!

Now that you know enough about what a pulse oximeter is and does, it’s time to move on. Let’s discuss the different types of models you get to choose from.

Different Types of Pulse Oximeters

Finger Oximeter

The finger oximeter is a portable device perfect for home applications. It has an alligator-shaped clip that you can attach to your finger or earlobe. And the thing passes infrared light through your veins.

To display deoxygenated and oxygenated blood cells. (Normal blood oxygen levels) But remember that the tool doesn’t show accurate readings if your finger or hand is cold.

Handheld Oximeter

Medical institutions and hospitals use the handheld version. Even home users find these types of pulse oximeters valuable.

The device consists of a cable that attaches the screen and the clip together. And the infrared does an excellent job of delivering accurate results. For proper diagnosis! You can even clip the tool to the toe during emergencies.

Wrist Oximeter

You wear it around your wrist; that’s the only difference. It provides the same accurate readings as any finger oximeter.

Fetal Oximeter

When you want to check your baby’s health during normal delivery, this is the pulse oximeter to use. The probe of the device is what you place on your baby’s head.

This gives the readings from the skull by passing light rays. The probe also helps in informing the doctor beforehand about potential complications. During the baby’s journey through that birth canal!

This way, a medical professional can be well prepared to take necessary steps if required.

Pediatric Oximeter

Such a device is suitable for the small fingers and toes of a baby. You can even wrap it around his/her ankles.

Veterinary Oximeter

Now, this is something that you can use for pets. You’re most likely to spot a veterinary oximeter at a veterinarian’s clinic. Vets use it to keep pets healthy.

Various Features of Pulse Oximeters

Photo credit: vivehealth.com

If you wish to make a well-informed decision, you should know all about the features of the best pulse oximeter. So without wasting any time, let’s get to the point right away!

1. Accuracy

A device that offers high levels of accuracy is more like it. Some models on the current market come with warning lights. These lights state when and if there’s an error leading to inaccuracy.

So whatever you do, don’t disregard the accuracy feature. Otherwise, you’ll end up using a malfunctioning pulse oximeter. One that delivers wrong readings! And this means faulty interpretation.

2. Alarms

Allow me to point out that oximeters with an invaluable alarm system are not only beneficial. But necessary too! What it does is warn you whenever the oxygen supply is minimal.

Such pulse oximeters are perfect for users with zero medical background. So are you unable to differentiate between various levels of oxygen saturation? If so, you’d be better off with an alarm.

3. Readability

The display screen is the component that shows the results, correct? So in terms of readability, take into account factors like text color, screen size, and clarity. The goal is to pick a device that you can read easily without straining your eyes.

4. Durability

When it comes to durability, you immediately think of warranty. Am I right? In this case, don’t forget to buy a product with warranty. It’s the only way you can rest assured knowing that the best pulse oximeter offers long-lasting value.

Wrapping It Up

My Choice: CMS 50-DL Pulse OximeterCMS 50-DL Pulse Oximeter

Choosing an oximeter is an important decision. Especially if you wish to keep a strict check on your pulse rate along with blood oxygen. But with asthma or other pulmonary conditions, the selection process becomes more crucial. In that case, let me declare the ultimate winner. It’s the CMS 50-DL Pulse Oximeter. Suitable for both personal and medical uses!

The FDA-approved, portable device presents accurate, quick readings. Usability and durability are factors that work towards providing a satisfying experience. Plus, the product has an affordable price tag. So you don’t need to spend big bucks to get your fingers on a top-quality, high-performing oximeter.

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