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3 Best Pulse Oximeters (Reviews and Buyer’s Guide)

Written by Dayna C
Last Updated :
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Doctors, nurses, respiratory therapists, and other healthcare professionals use pulse oximeters daily. Although pulse oximeters became available for personal purchase long ago, it took some time for people to start using them privately.

If you are thinking about purchasing this device, then it would be a good idea to check out the pulse oximeter reviews we are about to present in today’s article.

The thing is, the sheer number of options on the market may overwhelm you, making it hard to choose the right one.

We have decided to narrow the research to the best of the best available products.
That means, if you are looking for a pulse oximeter for home use, you will undoubtedly find one appropriate for your needs.

This post contains affiliate links. We earn a commission if you make a purchase at no extra cost to you.

Check this comparison table for a quick guide. Read the review for further details.

Best Pulse Oximeter Reviews

Reading through our best pulse oximeter reviews will help you significantly with finding the right product for you.
In case you may still have second thoughts, we prepared a buyer’s guide as well.

1. Fingertip Pulse Oximeter Pro Series 500 DL by Zacurate BUDGET PICK

Zacurate Pro Series

Among many expensive pulse oximeters on the market, you can choose the one that provides the best value and high accuracy – for a double lower price!

Zacurate Pro Series 500 DL Pulse Oximeter is definitely the product that ranks so high in the matter of value and affordability.

It will deliver fast and accurate oxygen saturation level results. This model is also durable and well-built, so you don’t have to be too careful with it.

For athletes like the Zacurate 500 DL comes with a lanyard. They can take the device with them while training and easily fit it where it is most suitable.

A hypoallergenic, latex-free silicon layer makes this oximeter seem sleek, while it protects it from the elements.

Zacurate gifts you the batteries with the 500 DL so that you can try it out the second you take your new oximeter out of the box.

Simply slip it on your finger (if you are a patient), and the large LED bright screen will display 100% accurate results – heart rate, pulse strength, and SpO2 results. You will get the results in only 10 seconds!
SMART (Self-Adjusting Spring System) accommodates any finger size, which means both adults and children can use it.

The 500 DL battery has a great life of 30 hours, which means it won’t require you to replace the batteries too often. Zacurate gives you a one-year warranty for this purchase.

Benefits

  • Accurate and reliable
  • Hypoallergenic silicone finger chamber
  • Bright LED display
  • Smart-Adjusting Spring System
  • Automatic shut down
  • 30 hours of battery life
  • 1-year warranty

Cons:

  • This is not a medical device

Zacurate Pro Series 500DL Fingertip Pulse Oximeter Blood Oxygen Saturation Monitor with Silicone Cover, Batteries and Lanyard (Royal Black)
221,275 Reviews
Zacurate Pro Series 500DL Fingertip Pulse Oximeter Blood Oxygen Saturation Monitor with Silicone Cover, Batteries and Lanyard (Royal Black)
  • ACCURATE AND RELIABLE - Accurately determines your SpO2 (blood oxygen saturation levels), pulse rate and pulse strength in 10 seconds and displays it conveniently on a large digital LED display.
  • FULL SPO2 VALUE - The ONLY LED pulse oximeter that can read and display SpO2 up to 100%.
  • SPORTS/HEALTH ENTHUSIASTS - For sports enthusiasts like mountain climbers, skiers, bikers, and anyone needing to monitor their SpO2 and pulse rate. The pulse oximeter LED display faces the user for an easy read.
  • ACCOMODATES WIDE RANGE OF FINGER SIZES - Finger chamber with SMART Spring System. Works for ages 12 and above.
  • LOADED WITH ACCESSORIES - Includes 2 x AAA BATTERIES, allowing the pulse oximeter to be used right out of the box; a SILICONE COVER to protect from dirt and physical damage; and a LANYARD for convenience. Comes with a 12-month WARRANTY and USA based technical phone support.

2. Fingertip Pulse Oximeter Generation 2 SM-165 by SantaMedical QUALITY PICK

Fingertip Pulse Oximeter

The SantaMedical pulse oximeter has a great design and amazing features, which makes it one of the best devices to buy at the moment. You will obtain a quick assessment of arterial hemoglobin levels and pulse rate and, what is most important – get accurate results.

The device itself is handy and portable. Its bright OLED back-lit display offers great reviews both indoors and outdoors, whether the environment is dark or light.

What is more, the display has a Pulse Rate bar module and integrated SpO2 probe. It turns off automatically and has a low battery level indicator. A single set of SM 165 batteries provides up to 30 hours of continuous operation on one set of batteries.

When it comes to using the SantaMedical oximeter, it is plain and simple, but that is exactly what we are looking for—a hassle-free design. You want to get accurate and fast results, and you will—in just a few seconds. After you press the “on” button, you will see a few parameters on the display: battery level, heart rate, and waveform.

All of this—in four directions, as the display will adjust to any angle you turn. To add protection and mobility, the seller gives you a carrying case with a belt loop and accompanying neck cord so those concerned with damage can sit back and relax.

On the other hand, durable case construction is hypoallergenic and prevents dermatological reactions as well.
This oximeter operates according to a one-button design and has a self-adjusting finger clamp. Adults and children, but not infants, can use the SantaMedical device. It is lightweight, and you can carry it with you wherever you go.

The overall impression is the SantaMedical 2-SM 165 is an extremely durable and accurate oximeter, perfect for in-home and sports use. In case you are not content with the SantaMedical oximeter, the seller will give your money back 100%.

Benefits

  • 4 directions and 6 models LED display
  • One-button design
  • Portable size
  • Auto power off
  • Waveform results
  • 30+ hours of monitoring
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Money-back guarantee

Cons:

  • Instructions don’t make it clear how to replace the battery
  • Some of the customers would prefer if this oximeter had an alarm setting

Santamedical Generation 2 Fingertip Pulse Oximeter Oximetry Blood Oxygen Saturation Monitor with Batteries and Lanyard
12,149 Reviews
Santamedical Generation 2 Fingertip Pulse Oximeter Oximetry Blood Oxygen Saturation Monitor with Batteries and Lanyard
  • VERY ACCURATE READINGS - Our pulse oximeter has been clinically tested and consistently beat other pulse oximeter in terms of accuracy and reliability, it is found to be a fast and absolutely reliable gadget to use. It is ideal for the oxygen and pulse readings, and have a very small error margin.
  • FAST AND EASY OXIMETER READINGS - Taking your oxygen and pulse readings with this digital oximeter is as simple as pressing a button. It uses patented technology and can show readings in four different directions with 6 display. Taking the SpO2 readings (blood oxygen saturation levels) at convenience of your home or outdoor
  • BRIGHT & COMPACT - Bright OLED display allows clear reading in dark, inside home or in bright sunlight. Oxygen saturation monitor shows real time Pulse Rate, Pulse Rate Bar and SpO2 level. Light Weight, Easy to carry & Accommodates wide range of finger sizes.
  • LIGHT, COMPACT & LONG BATTERY LIFE- Light and compact, accommodates wide range of finger sizes, long battery life, automatic power off after 10 seconds.
  • You Get: Fingertip Pulse Oximeter, Neck/Wrist Cord, User Manual, 2-AAA Batteries, plus our no-hassle 1 year warranty and friendly customer service.

3. Concorde Pulse Oximeter

Bluetooth Fingertip Pulse Oximeter


Whether you need frequent oxygen saturation monitoring from the comfort of your home and for medical purposes or you are an athlete or a mountain climber, the Concord pulse oximeter is the best choice for you.
This device can be your travel companion whenever you are on the go, as it comes in a small size and a soft carrying case.

Turn it on with a single touch of a button and check your blood oxygen saturation, pulse strength, and pulse rate. You need to look no further, as the Concord oximeter includes everything you need – batteries, neck lanyard, foam-padded box, and shock-resistant protective cover.

What customers really like about this device is its 2-way rotating display. On the other hand, you can be fully confident about its battery life, as the display turns off automatically once you remove your finger, which saves batteries.

A low battery indicator will notify you before the batteries wear off. This oximeter is suitable for children (7 years and up) and adults. The manufacturer offers a 2-year warranty and excellent customer service and support.

Benefits

  • Easy-to-use
  • Comes with a protective silicone cover
  • Uses 2-AAA batteries
  • Runs up to 30 hours with a single battery set
  • Low-battery indicator
  • 2-year warranty Reversible display

Cons:

  • There is no data recording option
  • Some of the customers rated it as a bit slow

HealthTree Bluetooth Pulse Oximeter Fingertip, Blood Oxygen Saturation Monitor and Heart Rate Monitor with Free APP, for Apple and Android, 2 X AAA Batteries, Lanyard
3,022 Reviews
HealthTree Bluetooth Pulse Oximeter Fingertip, Blood Oxygen Saturation Monitor and Heart Rate Monitor with Free APP, for Apple and Android, 2 X AAA Batteries, Lanyard
  • 💚【Reading Accurately And Reliable】This Bluetooth oximeter Accurately measures your blood oxygen saturation levels(SpO2 ), pulse rate, pulse strength and pulse waveform and display them conveniently on a large OLED screen. Please note that there is a protective film on the screen, you can tear off the protective film before use to better see the screen Numerical value!
  • 💚【Warnings for Abnormal Readings】When you measuring, if O2 level value or pulse rate value exceeds the preset limit, the value which exceeds limit will flash on the screen. Keep an eye on your SpO2 and PR.
  • 💚【Free APP for Android and iOS】Use App at no additional cost. Record and store a reading up to 10 hours continuously. (ONLY record when APP is running) View real time data, graphic report and trends of blood oxygen saturation and heart rate. Bluetooth oximeter will self switch off when a finger is removed from the unit for more than 10 seconds. Great for saving the battery life.
  • 💚【Easy To Use】Bluetooth pulse oximeter can perform all operations with one button. simply clip it on to your finger and turn it on at the press of a button. This bluetooth oximeter lightweight and small size means it can be easily carried in your pocket. Easy to carry. Monitor your health everytime and everywhere.
  • 💚【You will get】1x bluetooth pulse oximeter , 2 x AAA batteries, 1x lanyard, 1x user manual. Comes with 1 YEAR WARRANTY. NOTE: this item for sports and aviation use only, not for medical use.

Pulse Oximeter – Buyer’s Guide

Buying a pulse oximeter may seem like entering a labyrinth, as there are so many devices on the market.
Yet, if you identify your needs correctly and clearly state what you are looking for, you will simplify the process.

A pulse oximeter gives you the option to check on the current heart rate status, blood flow, and oxygen saturation levels. Your case will help you identify the type of oximeter your condition requires.

For example, you can find a device for recreational tracking, sports training, or sleep analysis. As you can see, we did a couple of pulse oximeter reviews to help you pick the right one among the wide range of products on the market.

In case you need an extra solution for eventual dilemmas, here is how you can ensure that you are purchasing the product you need.

We will tell you what the most important features are to look for in a pulse oximeter so that you can eliminate the ones that don’t seem to align with your needs and make the best possible purchasing decision.

Which Things to Consider When Buying a Pulse Oximeter

pulse_oximeter_on_finger.jpeg
Accuracy and Speed
Probably the most important features of a pulse oximeter are accuracy and speed. You certainly want to purchase a device that is reliable and provides accurate readings each time you use it. That is why you should look for a reliable brand in the first place.

Oximeters come in a couple of variants, of which we already mentioned finger pulse oximeters. Some other types that are proven to be accurate are:

  • Handheld oximeters (the most commonly used in hospitals),
  • Wrist-worn sensors,
  • Tabletop sensors,
  • Fetal oximeters (made for children’s use).

All of them are designed to monitor blood oxygen saturation levels as well as pulse rates and are highly accurate.
Additional features
pulse_oximeter_connected_to_smart_phone.jpeg
You will definitely find it useful to get a pulse oximeter with additional features that provide you with readings that are more detailed. Some of these features include:

  • Data recording,
  • Mobility,
  • Extended battery life,
  • Alarms,
  • Sensors.

A device with audible alarms is excellent for identifying eventual health abnormalities. It will help you detect the concert at a glance so that you can take the necessary measurements. The history saves feature gives you the option to compare and keep track of previous readings. You will easily notice the improvement if you can liken recordings from the previous period to the most recent results.

As you are making an investment, you will probably expect to get a quality device for the money spent.
Aim for an oximeter that shuts off automatically after a certain inactive period. Automatic battery preservation mode will also extend the battery life of the device. Customers, especially sportsmen, really appreciate the device’s mobility.

You can keep a record of the oxygen levels while on the go, depending on your needs. In the end, you want a device that is durable and will suit your needs best without breaking the budget.
Price
woman_measuring_pulse.jpeg
As we mentioned, it is also important to find a device that is reasonably priced and provides adequate and accurate readings.

Some of the factors that form the price are brand, material, additional features, and accuracy. The great thing is that you don’t have to spend a significant amount for a decent oximeter. Be careful about warranties and return policies, as these indicate you are working with a reliable brand.

What Is a Pulse Oximeter and What Is Its Purpose

caregiver_with_pulse_oximeter.jpeg
A pulse oximeter measures the proportion of oxygen saturation (SpO2) in the blood, pulse strength, and pulse rate quickly and accurately.

In other words, it calculates the proportion of how well parts of the body (arms and legs are furthest from the heart) to which arterial blood flows are supplied with oxygen. People with COPD or respiratory health issues find this noninvasive electronic device extremely useful.

The use of a pulse oximeter is simple and easy. This device most commonly comes in the form of an ear clip or a finger clip, but you can find other varieties for different patient’s needs. You would place the device on a fingertip or an earlobe to conduct the measurement.

The device then measures the absorption of hemoglobin in the patient’s blood and calculates how much oxygen is in his/her blood. It is a small device that gives you the measurement within seconds. Oxygen saturation normally fluctuates during the day.

Readings above 92% are safe, while the optimal oxygen level should reach 97% or higher. Some of the common factors that may result in inaccurate results are cold hands, hand movements, weak pulse, and fingernail polish.

Serious athletes and mountain climbers monitor oxygen levels during workouts. Wearing a pulse oximeter is definitely not necessary during a workout, but it is useful for measuring oxygen levels in case of oxygen reduction at higher altitudes or during strenuous workouts.

However, it is highly recommended to use a pulse oximeter in case a patient is recovering from surgery or a recent illness, as well as for ones with certain medical conditions such as heart attack, heart failure, pneumonia, asthma, lung cancer, or COPD.

What is more, the main reason for having the insight into oxygen levels is the safety concern. In case a person has low levels of oxygen saturation, that may be hazardous for his/her health and indicate serious pulmonary issues.

Conclusion

Some of the pulse oximeters we mentioned in this article are intended for medical use, while the others have their use in the non-medical sector. It doesn’t matter if you are a professional, as all of them are easy to use and provide a great way to track vital measurements.

Our pulse oximeter reviews list should give you a clear idea of what is the best product for you. We wanted to give you insight into the best pulse oximeters on the market that provide a great number of features, are durable, accurate, and affordable.

OUR CHOICE

After our thorough research and pulse oximeter reviews, we can conclude that the Fingertip Pulse Oximeter Generation 2 SM-165 by SantaMedical is the best overall pick.

This device is intended for medical purposes as well for athletes, pilots, and mountain climbers.
If you choose this oximeter, you can be completely confident about the quality you get for the price.

This pulse oximeter comes with numerous features and provides an accurate and quick checkup of the oxygen saturation in your blood. With 30+ monitoring hours, 6 models display, waveform results, and hypoallergenic properties, the 2 SM-165 pulse oximeter by Santa Medical beats the competition and wins first place.

Santamedical Generation 2 Fingertip Pulse Oximeter Oximetry Blood Oxygen Saturation Monitor with Batteries and Lanyard
12,149 Reviews
Santamedical Generation 2 Fingertip Pulse Oximeter Oximetry Blood Oxygen Saturation Monitor with Batteries and Lanyard
  • VERY ACCURATE READINGS - Our pulse oximeter has been clinically tested and consistently beat other pulse oximeter in terms of accuracy and reliability, it is found to be a fast and absolutely reliable gadget to use. It is ideal for the oxygen and pulse readings, and have a very small error margin.
  • FAST AND EASY OXIMETER READINGS - Taking your oxygen and pulse readings with this digital oximeter is as simple as pressing a button. It uses patented technology and can show readings in four different directions with 6 display. Taking the SpO2 readings (blood oxygen saturation levels) at convenience of your home or outdoor
  • BRIGHT & COMPACT - Bright OLED display allows clear reading in dark, inside home or in bright sunlight. Oxygen saturation monitor shows real time Pulse Rate, Pulse Rate Bar and SpO2 level. Light Weight, Easy to carry & Accommodates wide range of finger sizes.
  • LIGHT, COMPACT & LONG BATTERY LIFE- Light and compact, accommodates wide range of finger sizes, long battery life, automatic power off after 10 seconds.
  • You Get: Fingertip Pulse Oximeter, Neck/Wrist Cord, User Manual, 2-AAA Batteries, plus our no-hassle 1 year warranty and friendly customer service.

What is your favorite best pulse oximeter? Please share with us below.

About Author

Dayna C
Dayna has an incredible passion for helping others and a background as an in-home caregiver for the elderly. She left the field temporarily three years ago to stay at home with her twins, but found that she really missed working with senior citizens. She launched LoAids as a way to help not just her own loved ones and former clients, but ALL seniors live life to the fullest in their golden years. Follow her on LINKEDIN and TWITTER. Read her LATEST POSTS. Learn more about her HERE.

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