Choosing the right blood pressure monitor can feel overwhelming, especially with so many models and features available. This guide breaks down everything you need to know—so you can confidently pick the best monitor for your health and lifestyle.
Why Monitor Your Blood Pressure at Home?
Using a home blood pressure monitor is one of the simplest and most effective ways to stay on top of your heart health. Whether you're managing high blood pressure (hypertension), monitoring your levels during pregnancy, or just keeping tabs for preventative care, having a monitor at home makes it easy to track your numbers daily or weekly—without visiting a doctor’s office.
Doctors often recommend home monitoring to:
- Detect early signs of hypertension or heart conditions
- Track how well your medication or lifestyle changes are working
- Prevent “white coat syndrome” by getting readings in a calm, everyday setting
- Help patients with conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, or a family history of heart issues
Consistent readings from a reliable at-home device give you and your healthcare provider a better picture of your long-term health.
Tip: Track your blood pressure at the same time each day, ideally in the morning before eating or taking medication. Consistency helps spot trends.
Upper Arm vs. Wrist Blood Pressure Monitors
When shopping for a home blood pressure monitor, one of the first decisions is whether to go with an upper arm model or a wrist monitor. Both types are available over-the-counter, but they differ in terms of accuracy, comfort, and convenience.
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Upper Arm Monitors | - More accurate readings - Recommended by doctors - Often come with adjustable or wide-range cuffs |
- Slightly bulkier - Requires table or arm support for best results |
| Wrist Monitors | - Lightweight and portable - Easy to travel with |
- Less accurate unless positioned exactly at heart level - More sensitive to body movement |
Our Recommendation: For most people, especially those monitoring for medical reasons, an upper arm blood pressure monitor is the best choice. They’re more reliable, easier to use consistently, and preferred by healthcare professionals.
Tip: If using a wrist monitor, always hold it at heart level. Even small shifts in position can throw off your readings.
Key Features to Look For in a Home Blood Pressure Monitor
Not all blood pressure monitors are created equal. While any FDA-cleared model can provide basic readings, the right features can make monitoring easier, more accurate, and more useful for long-term health tracking.
- Cuff Fit & Comfort: A proper cuff fit is critical for accurate readings. Look for monitors with wide-range or adjustable cuffs, especially if you have a larger or smaller arm size than average.
- One-Touch Operation: Many of the best models offer simple, one-button readings—ideal for older adults or anyone who wants a stress-free experience.
- Memory Storage: Some devices save up to 100–200 readings, and even support multiple users—great for couples or families sharing a monitor.
- Bluetooth or App Connectivity: A Bluetooth blood pressure monitor syncs readings to your phone so you can share results with your doctor or track trends over time.
- Irregular Heartbeat Detection: Some monitors can detect signs of arrhythmia during measurement. This is useful for catching early warning signs of heart rhythm issues.
- HSA/FSA Eligibility: Most blood pressure monitors are FSA/HSA eligible. If you have a health savings account, you can use it to purchase your monitor tax-free.
Top Blood Pressure Monitors We Recommend
Whether you’re looking for clinical-level accuracy, wireless syncing, or a great budget-friendly option, here are some of the best blood pressure monitors our customers trust the most.
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BodyTrace Blood Pressure Monitor (BT106)
A cellular-enabled monitor that uses LTE to transmit readings to our Impilo RPM app. Includes 1 year of free app access for remote monitoring and health tracking. Ideal for patients, caregivers, and RPM programs. Requires smartphone setup.
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Welch Allyn Home Series 1700
Trusted by hospitals and clinics nationwide, this upper arm monitor uses SureBP® technology to deliver fast, accurate readings—even while inflating. Designed by a medical-grade brand for professional accuracy at home.
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Omron 3 Series (BP7150)
One of the best value monitors available, this FDA-cleared device delivers consistent accuracy with a simple one-touch interface. Great for daily use and budget-conscious shoppers who still want Omron’s trusted performance.
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Garmin Index BPM
Sleek, smart, and beautifully designed, Garmin’s upper arm monitor seamlessly integrates with the Garmin Connect app. Perfect for those already tracking fitness or health data with Garmin devices.
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Smart Meter iBloodPressure Monitor (SMBP802)
This connected monitor transmits readings via cellular directly to our RPM platform. Designed for remote health programs and caregivers who need consistent, hassle-free data access.
🛍️ Browse All Blood Pressure Monitors →
Tips for Getting Accurate Blood Pressure Readings
Even with the best monitor, your blood pressure readings can vary if you're not following proper technique. Here are a few simple steps to help ensure consistency and accuracy at home:
- Rest before measuring: Sit calmly for 5 minutes before taking a reading. Avoid talking, eating, or moving around.
- Correct cuff placement: Wrap the cuff directly on your bare upper arm, about an inch above the elbow. The tubing should run down the center of your arm.
- Support your arm: Keep your arm at heart level, resting on a table or cushion. A hanging arm can result in artificially high readings.
- Feet flat, back supported: Sit upright in a chair with both feet flat on the floor. Don’t cross your legs or slump.
- Avoid caffeine, nicotine, or exercise: Wait at least 30 minutes after any of these before taking your reading—they can cause temporary spikes.
- Measure at the same time daily: Morning readings (before medication or meals) are ideal for spotting trends over time.
Tip: Take two or three readings, one minute apart, and average them for the most accurate result.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I check my blood pressure?
If you’ve been diagnosed with hypertension or are monitoring a chronic condition, it’s best to take readings once or twice per day—ideally in the morning and evening. If you're monitoring casually or for prevention, 2–3 times per week is often enough.
Are wrist monitors accurate?
They can be accurate, but only when used properly. Wrist monitors are more sensitive to arm position and body movement. For best results, hold the monitor at heart level and follow all usage instructions carefully.
Do I need a prescription to buy a blood pressure monitor?
No—blood pressure monitors are FDA-cleared but sold over-the-counter. You can purchase one directly without a prescription.
Are these monitors HSA/FSA eligible?
Yes! Most blood pressure monitors are HSA/FSA eligible. You can use your HSA or FSA card at checkout or request reimbursement with your receipt.
What affects blood pressure readings?
Stress, caffeine, medications, recent activity, and poor posture can all affect your readings. For the most reliable results, follow a consistent routine and measure at the same time each day.