More than 43% of Pulse Oximeters available in the market today give improper readings with lower accuracy.
A Pulse Oximeter is a small, clip-like medical device that can be attached to your fingertip without causing any sort of pain.
It usually tells you the oxygen saturation levels along with your heart rate within a few seconds.
We researched a selection of pulse oximeter brands available in the market and created this best list.
Did You Know? Did you know that the pulse oximeter was invented by a brilliant Japanese bioengineer named Takuo Aoyagi back in the early 1970s? It took about a decade for this innovative technology to hit the market, with the first commercial oximeters making their debut in the early 1980s.
Get Accurate Readings: Top Pulse Oximeter Brands in the World 2023
How We Tested? We spend a lot of time researching modern hardware here at Electrons. We’ve resolutely determined our ratings based on accuracy, safety, design, innovation, display, battery life, and most importantly, reviews from consumers. Our impartial views tell you the truth about how the brands perform.
1. Zacurate
Zacurate is an international brand of best selling pulse oximeters. It is an affordable yet highly accurate option for those on a budget.
Zacurate pulse oximeters are manufactured according to the CE and FDA standards. They have fine-tuned their range of pulse oximeters by taking feedback from hundreds of product testers, thousands of customers, and dozens of conducted studies.
With the new upgraded internal hardware, the device accurately determines your SpO2 (blood oxygen saturation levels) within +/- 2% deviation. It provides SpO2 up to 100%, rather than capping the reading at 99% like most devices.
It provides a consistent reading under all light conditions, including indoor and outdoor settings, and displays the stats on an easy-to-read LED screen.
Zacurate pulse oximeters are designed to fit a wide variety of finger sizes and shapes. They are constructed with a high-quality grade silicone finger chamber that is hypoallergenic and latex-free.
It’s easy to use. Just clip it on to your finger and turn it on at the press of a button. And, in a few seconds, the large bright display gives you a readout of the blood oxygen saturation levels and heart rate. Batteries are included with the package, so you can use it right out of the box.
Some of the Pro models of Zacurate pulse oximeters have advanced functions like adjustable LED brightness, visual representation of heartbeat and the amount of blood flowing through your blood vessels, Bluetooth, alarms, and more.
Most of the Zacurate pulse oximeter comes with a 1-year manufacturer warranty. They have become one of the most popular brands of digital pulse oximeters on Amazon, Walmart, and other global markets.
2. Wellue
Coming in at number 2 on our list is another best pulse oximeter brand in the market, Wellue.
Wellue uses innovative technologies trusted by hospitals and clinics to manufacturing their medical equipment. They are dedicated to developing products with medical-grade accuracy that are consumer-friendly.
Wellue has introduced a wide range of pulse oximeters in the market, and they all have FDA approved accuracy.
The pulse oximeter manufactured by Wellue accurately records your SpO2 levels with just a 2% deviation from the normal oxygen reading range. The Pulse Rate and Pulse Strength measured by the device are very accurate too.
The OLED display is clear and bright. You will have absolutely no problems getting the readings from the device.
The light, compact, and sleek design of the pulse oximeter makes it easy to use and carry. The build quality is sturdy and should serve you for a long time.
Some models come with built-in Bluetooth and can work with your smartphone at no additional cost. The associated App on your phone automatically syncs data from the pulse oximeter. It gives you graphic reports and trends of blood oxygen saturation and heart rate.
The value on the screen will flash when abnormal SpO2 or pulse rate is detected. In some models, the device can even make beep sounds.
Most Wellue pulse oximeters come with batteries included for convenience. Furthermore, they all ship with a 1-year warranty.
3. Innovo
Innovo Medical is a US based company primarily involved in the design and manufacturing of Medical Products.
The company was born out of frustration with companies cutting corners in the name of corporate profit. Innovo believed that product safety and reliability, not corporate profit, should be the fundamental guiding principle in the making of all medical products.
All their products have been perfected over the years based on the Customers’ feedback. Well, the pulse oximeter is no different. Most of the models are FDA approved.
The Innovo pulse oximeter consistently beat other pulse oximeters in terms of accuracy and reliability during clinical tests.
The improved internal hardware and the new software upgrades have made the latest range of pulse oximeters from Innovo a lot better.
The Plethysmograph and Perfusion Index tells you if you are taking your SpO2 and Pulse Rate properly. No more second-guessing if the readings are reliable or why the pulse oximeter is not giving you a reading.
Innovo pulse oximeters are suitable for mountain climbers, skiers, bikers, aviators, or anyone interested in measuring their SpO2 and pulse rate while on the move.
Almost all pulse oximeters ship with batteries included and hence are ready to use out of the box. Also, they all have a year’s warranty.
4. SantaMedical
SantaMedical develops monitoring devices for home use. Their products are well received among users across the globe.
Their pulse oximeters are clinically tested in terms of accuracy and reliability. They are found to be fast and absolutely reliable to use with a very small error margin.
Their devices allow for almost all sizes of fingers, from children to adults, due to the adjustable finger chamber design. Taking your oxygen and pulse readings with this digital oximeter is as simple as pressing a button.
The bright LED display allows clear readings at any time of the day, in the dark and bright light. It shows real-time Pulse Rate, Pulse Rate Bar, and SpO2 level.
Also, it features an auto shut-off 5 seconds after you remove your finger from the chamber.
Almost all pulse oximeters are shipped with batteries, a neck/wrist cord, and a user manual for your help.
SantaMedical pulse oximeters come with a no-hassle 1-year manufacturer warranty and friendly customer service.
5. mibest
The pulse oximeters from mibest have all the perks that will get the job done, plain and simple.
Not only does it function well, but the sleek design also looks nice for any medical professional or for someone who wished to use the device at home.
It is easy to use and has an efficient one-button operation. The precise sensor measures the arterial hemoglobin oxygen levels within a few seconds of pressing the button and displays the results along with a number of other parameters, including battery levels, waveform, and heart rate.
Besides, some higher-end models have various levels of adjustable brightness, a battery-low indicator, and other features.
Built with great quality material, mibest pulse oximeters are strong and durable. Further, it can be used as a pediatric pulse oximeter for kids and children as well as a blood oxygen monitor for adults.
It’s great for mountain climbers, bikers, trainers, aviators, and general sports enthusiasts to spot check SpO2 on the fly.
This portable oxygen saturation machine comes with an instruction manual, two batteries, a warranty, and a neck lanyard that is detachable and adjustable in length.
6. AccuMed
Next up on our list is the AccuMed. AccuMed is part of a generation of advanced high-quality health and at-home personal care products that are bridging the gap between innovation, ease of use, and affordability.
AccuMed pulse oximeters are, simply put, another solid option for anyone looking for a good pulse oximeter. They read accurate oxygen saturation and pulse rate in a few seconds.
They fit all finger sizes from kids above four years old to adults and come with a bright OLED/LED screen.
Some models have the auto-brightness adjustment feature that will set the optimal screen brightness levels no matter if you’re in a light or dark setting.
AccuMed pulse oximeters can be used at high altitudes, low altitudes, high temperatures, and low temperatures.
They also have a long battery life with more than 20+ hours of continuous operation. Changing out the battery is also fairly effortless. Besides, they automatically power off when not in use.
Weighing only a few grams, every AccuMed pulse oximeter comes in a convenient travel case that protects it from scratches when carried on its own or inside your backpack.
7. ChoiceMMed
ChoiceMMed is one of the largest manufacturers of medical equipment globally. The company provides qualified and reliable medical devices for homecare and professional needs.
The development of these high-tech devices is driven by using the latest inventions in medical technology and years of R&D.
The pulse oximeters from ChoiceMMed are of high quality and affordable. If you’re looking to not break the bank and yet get your hands on a top pulse oximeter brand, this is the obvious choice.
It stands out from the rest in terms of its accuracy and reliability. Not to mention, it has a clean look and design and is small enough to fit in any of your pockets.
It fits both kids and adults, giving it one of the broadest fit ranges on our list.
All pulse oximeters come with a durable protective pouch, instruction manual, batteries, neck lanyard, and warranty. You’ll be ready to use your portable oxygen sensor right out of the box.
8. LOOKEE
LOOKEE is a top brand health monitoring company. They are committed to helping millions of people to live healthier lives.
LOOKEE pulse oximeter takes accuracy very seriously and is FDA approved. Relying on cutting-edge technology, the device is perfect for spot-checking oxygen saturation levels and heart rate at any given time.
The highest quality medical-grade LED, and sensor gives you accurate readings with a low margin of error.
Taking a reading is easy. All you need to do is clip it on to your finger, press the button to turn it on, and wait. Within 10 seconds, you’ll have an accurate reading of your SpO2 and pulse rate levels.
The oximeter finger chamber with a smart spring system is optimally designed for a wide range of finger sizes from children around three years old to adults.
Some premium models will warn you with a beep sound and flashing display when your oxygen and Pulse Rate are beyond the threshold levels.
The accessories included with the package are batteries, a carry case, and a lanyard for your convenience.
9. CONTEC
CONTEC is a high-tech company founded in the year 1996 that focuses on the research, manufacture, and distribution of medical instruments.
They have established a modern and scientific system at their manufacturing facility. They own more than 100 patents, and most of their products have passed CE, FDA, and COS/VIOS certificates. Today, CONTEC products are available in over 130 countries and regions.
CONTEC pulse oximeter is equipped with Photoelectric Oxyhemoglobin Inspection Technology to rapidly detect changes in your blood oxygen. It also measures your pulse rate with good reliability.
This non-invasive portable oximeter is ideal for home as well as professional use. It provides a good reading in any light condition and is prone to fewer errors.
The power consumption of the device is low and can be operated continuously for 20+ hours. It will automatically be powered off when not used for a few seconds.
Some models allow the display mode to be changed and the brightness of the screen to be adjusted. All CONTEC pulse oximeters come with a warranty.
10. Beurer
Beurer is a German company that manufactures electrical devices for health and well-being. They offer a range of more than 500 products in various genres and have been in service for 100+ years now!
The simple design of the Beurer pulse oximeter displays results in an easy-to-read manner and makes it accessible for people of all ages to use.
Even though it feels light, the device is made of high-quality materials, so it should last for multiple years as long as you take good care of it.
Some Beurer models have lithium-ion batteries and can be charged via a USB cable. The USB can also be used for transferring data to your PC. Further, there are models with built-in Bluetooth for the transfer of measurements to your smartphone.
Most models come with adjustable display brightness and graphic pulse display. They also feature automatic switch-off, low battery indicator, strap, and pouch.
Beurer feels their pulse oximeters are particularly well suited for people with heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, bronchial asthma, and sleep apnoea or for sports at high altitudes such as mountain climbing, skiing, or aviation sports.
11. Concord
Coming in at number 11 is the Concord brand pulse oximeters. They are another great option for anyone who needs a high-quality and reliable pulse oximeter.
Concord is based out of the USA and is a worldwide distributor of pulse oximeters and health supplies. The company is built on service excellence, and they value their customers.
The Concord pulse oximeter provides everything that you need to keep an eye on your pulse rate and oxygen levels in a convenient, easy-to-use package.
This fingertip oxygen monitor is designed with ease of use in mind featuring a bright and large LED screen along with simple controls so that you can get accurate readings even in the dark or with poor eyesight.
The oximeter runs up to 30+ hours on a single set of AAA batteries and shuts off automatically after a few seconds to avoid unnecessary battery drain.
It has a low battery indicator so that you can replace the batteries ahead of time. It comes with everything you need, say batteries, carrying case, shock-resistant silicone cover, and neck/wrist lanyard.
Because most models of Concord pulse oximeters come with a 2-year warranty and money-back guarantee, you can purchase it with confidence.
12. Viatom
Viatom, as a company, specializes in R&D and production of home medical devices. Through their products, you can understand your health better and more conveniently.
Viatom offers different kinds of pulse oximeters. A ring type pulse oximeter monitors and tracks your sleep silently. It vibrates on detecting abnormal heart rate or low oxygen levels. It has a built-in rechargeable battery for overnight use and can sync real-time data with your smartphone via Bluetooth.
The wrist type pulse oximeter continuously tracks and records oxygen level, heart rate, and body movement. It consists of a smart vibrator that triggers by low oxygen levels and is best suitable for overnight monitoring.
The fingertip type pulse oximeter fits in your pocket and can be taken anywhere, anytime. It is easy to use, compact, and suitable for home as well as health-care facilities use. The OLED display is pretty solid, and the device automatically enters sleep mode after a few seconds of inactivity.
A premium model of fingertip pulse oximeter comes with built-in memory and Bluetooth support. It has self-setting alarm values based on individual health conditions. So, when the threshold is exceeded, an alert is issued.
Most pulse oximeter models from Viatom include batteries, a carry pouch to protect the device, and a lanyard for convenient carry.
13. Masimo
Masimo is a global medical technology company that develops and manufactures innovative noninvasive patient monitoring technologies, medical devices, and a wide array of sensors.
They are especially good at making high quality, medical-grade pulse oximeters. Masimo technology works inside monitoring devices from a host of manufacturers, including Philips, Atom, Mindray North America, GE Medical, Spacelabs, and Zoll. It is one of the best pulse oximeter brands in the world today.
Most pulse oximeters from Masimo can measure five key vital signs that include oxygen saturation, pulse rate, breathing rate, perfusion index, and pleth variability index.
They use proprietary technology to overcome the challenges of low perfusion and motion artifact that limit conventional pulse oximetry. This key advantage ensures that Masimo delivers truly accurate measurements, even during conditions that prove challenging.
The high-resolution display is pretty good and does a fine job. Some models come with a touchpad interface in order to provide easy access to settings and device features.
The flexible finger chamber easily conforms to most finger shapes with enhanced comfort. It enables the secure application of fingers to minimize external interference.
Most Masimo pulse oximeters come with Bluetooth support and advanced customization options with data sharing that syncs directly to your smartphone.
Masimo is trusted by care providers around the world to monitor millions of patients each year. So for doctors, physicians, or those who run their own practice, it may be the best choice.
14. Salter
For over 250 years, Salter is the UK’s leading brand and has been manufacturing precision technology for the home.
The pulse oximeters from this company have been of very high quality and precision. The device gently clips on to the end of your finger,and takes both blood oxygenation readings, and checks your heart rate at the same time.
The readings for both are then displayed on a large, easy-to-read screen, which also shows battery life, pulse strength, and other pertinent information.
The simple one-button operation makes this device the perfect choice for people of all ages. It is especially useful for people suffering from respiratory conditions such as bronchitis, asthma, and emphysema.
The compact and lightweight design makes Salter pulse oximeters easy to carry during your travels.
To save batteries and last for many months, the device is equipped with an automatic power-off function. All models available in the market seem to have a great customer opinion.
15. Omron
Omron is a Japanese electronics company established in the year 1933. It has supported the field of medicine with innovative solutions and advanced technologies.
Omron’s pulse oximeter is another good option that you can buy. It is popular in the market because of its small size and reliable results.
It measures the percentage of oxygen in your blood by tracking the amount of light transmitted or reflected.
Besides using it at home, it can even be used for clinical purposes and is suitable for both adults and children.
The bright LED display that provides a comfortable viewing experience works well in both light and dark situations. Some models have brightness adjustment, auto-rotation display, and can keep a recording of the last reading.
Interestingly, there is an alarm feature built-in most models of Omron pulse oximeters. They are also very durable, so you won’t need to continuously worry about damaging or breaking them.
They have lower power consumption and will automatically turn off when not in use. The cavity can easily fit in fingers of almost all sizes making the device suitable for nearly everyone.
What are the Normal Ranges for a Pulse Oximeter?
Heart Rate – The heart rate or pulse is different in different people, and thus the normal range is anywhere between 60 to 100 beats per minute.
Oxygen Saturation or SpO2 – The normal range is between 94 to 100 percent. Anything below 90 is referred to as hypoxemia, and the patient should be immediately taken to the doctor. However, don’t panic.
How to Use a Pulse Oximeter?
Using a pulse oximeter is quite simple.
You just clip it on one of your fingers and turn it on.
Within seconds, the large bright display gives you a readout of the blood oxygen saturation levels and heart rate.
Which Finger is Best Suited for taking Accurate Readings using Pulse Oximeter?
Accuracy is often the primary concern in measuring oxygen saturation levels using a pulse oximeter.
Interestingly, a few years back, a study observed how clipping each finger affected the results.
The verdict was that the middle finger of the right hand gives the best accuracy.
However, most people using a pulse oximeter today just randomly clip it to their index finger and take readings.
What things affect the Accuracy of a Pulse Oximeter?
Nail Polish – The light from the pulse oximeter cannot adequately penetrate the finger with nail polish and hence gives you erratic results. One should also not use fake nails while using a pulse oximeter. Further, make sure your nails are not very long.
Cold Hands – A cold hand usually reduces the accuracy of the pulse oximeter readings. It is suggested to warm up your fingers a few minutes before using the device.
Movement – To get reliable readings, try to minimize your movement and remain stationary. Also, keep your finger below the level of your heart.
What are the Risks of using a Pulse Oximeter?
Thankfully, there aren’t any risks or dangers of using a pulse oximeter.
The only concern is making sure that the device is giving an accurate reading.
So, feel free to use it any number of times in a day and on anyone without a worry.
Buy only the Best!
We hope this article has helped you in making an informed decision. If yes, please share it with your friends and family so that it benefits more people.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you read in this article.
Did You Know?
Did you know that there are smartphone apps claiming to measure oxygen saturation using just the phone’s built-in camera and flash? While these apps are convenient, they may not be as accurate as dedicated pulse oximeters. It’s crucial to exercise caution and skepticism when relying on them for medical purposes.
Author:Nik is an experienced author with 14 years in software and tech, holding an IT Engineering degree and a Data Science Master's from Liverpool University. Disclaimer: This website's content is created by humans and refined by AI for better grammar, flow, and clarity.
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