Best Pulse Oximeter Reviews: Top 8 for 2020

Oxygen is essential in sustaining life. When your body starts losing considerable amounts of this highly reactive element, you (or the people around you, for that matter) need to spring into action or else face serious health repercussions. Oxygen saturation shouldn’t fall below 95%. This is why it can be a good idea to have a look at the Best Pulse Oximeter Reviews so you can find a good one to have around the house.

If allowed to go unchecked, brain damage or heart failure are bound to occur.

Due to the high level of urgency of maintaining the recommended oxygen saturation levels of patients, pulse oximeter units were introduced in hospitals in 1985 to help with treatment of pneumonia, neonatal blindness, and many other illnesses. Today, they continue to save countless lives on a daily basis, not just in hospitals but also in people’s day-to-day activities.

Preview	Name	Rating	Price	More Details
	CMS 50-DL Pulse Oximeter	4.3 / 5	$	More details! Click Here
	Finger Pulse SM-110 Oximeter	4.6 / 5	$	More details! Click Here
	Concord Emerald Fingertip Oximeter	4.6 / 5	$	More details! Click Here
	Easy@Home Fingertip Oximeter	4.8 / 5	$	More details! Click Here
	Acc U Rate SM-310 Premium Oximeter	4.8 / 5	$	More details! Click Here
	Santamedical SM-240 Pulse Oximeter	4.5 / 5	$	More details! Click Here
	Gurin GO-410 Finger Pulse Oximeter	4.8 / 5	$	More details! Click Here
	Innovo Wrist Color Pulse Oximeter	4.1 / 5	$$$	More details! Click Here

How Do Pulse Oximeters Work?

A pulse oximeter unit is a non-invasive device that monitors the amount of oxygen in our bloodstream. It sounds an audio signal as soon as oxygen saturation plummets to unhealthy levels.

Once they sound an alarm, a doctor or physician have as little as 3 minutes to prevent the patient from contracting brain damage or heart failure. It is for this reason that pulse’s were manufactured with high precision in mind. In fact, a pulse oximeter can detect as little as a 1% drop in oxygen saturation levels.

Why are they Necessary in Your Day-to-Day

Given the critical conditions of people with illnesses that may compromise the level of oxygen in their bloodstream, it is extremely important that they are provided a device that can sound an alarm when it detects the slightest sign of hydrogen starvation. Luckily for them, there are many excellent portable pulse oximeter units out in the market.

We have searched for the best pulse oximeters and review them here.

Best Pulse Oximeters Reviews for 2020

1. CMS 50-DL Pulse Oximeter

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The CMS 50-DL Pulse Oximeter works exactly like a professional-grade pulse oximeter, the only difference being that you can carry it inside your pocket. Even for its compact size, this it comes with a host of features that enhance user experience. With a processing display module as well as an SP02 and Pulse Rate bar graph in place, you can easily get all the necessary visuals required to determine whether your oxygen levels are in a healthy state.

Accuracy is always assured since the unit has interference resistance capacity against ambient light. The unit uses low-consumption AAA batteries and can be used for 40 straight hours.

• Compact and lightweight; comes with a soft carrying case (or an optional hard shell case for better protection)
• Each battery set can last up to 40 hours
• Accommodates a wide variety of finger sizes (from infants to adults)
• Battery low indicator and automatic power off

What’s to like about the CMS 50-DL

It’s difficult not to put your trust on this product especially when it’s being used by many professionals all over the country. The readings are always accurate and you can trust the digital readout to show every relevant data needed for diagnosis. One nurse who used this product even mentioned how fast the CMS 50-DL responds to changing conditions no matter how minute.

It’s lightweight and compact so it’s very easy to lug it around with you whenever you’re on the move. A parent with a sickly child requires to have this in his or her bag all the time.

What’s Not To Like

A few users have claimed that the oximeter feels fairly cheaply made, using plastics that don’t appear all that sturdy. This may be a result of the fairly low price of the unit and, from the reviews that have been put online thus far, the construction quality doesn’t appear the affect the accuracy or performance of the unit in any way as long as you are careful and use it as instructed.

Final Word

The exceptional accuracy offered by this product has led to it being used by professionals all over the world, with good reason. It currently carries a 4.3 out of 5 rating from more than 4,000 reviews and is an excellent choice for people who are shopping on a budget but still want a top quality product.

2. Finger Pulse Oximeter

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The Finger Pulse SM-110 Oximeter ticks all the right boxes in terms of establishing itself as one of the premiere home pulses currently available in the market. It has a myriad of features that help users monitor oxygen levels in their bloodstream. Using sophisticated signal processing methods, this pulse oximeter ensures that readings are always accurate. With two AAA alkaline batteries to depend on for power, the unit can work for as long as 30 hours.

It’s compact and lightweight, giving it the portability required for doing sports and outdoor activities. That portability is even more enhanced courtesy of the wrist/neck strap and storage case that come with the package.

• Fully-charged AA batteries can last for 30+ hours
• Intuitive and easy-to-use operation
• Comes with a one year warranty
• Comes with neck/wrist cord and storage case for greater portability

What’s to like about the Finger Pulse

As of this writing, it’s averaging a 4.6 rating from thousands of users. And it’s not surprising when you take into account the excellent value it offers considering the affordable price. It’s highly accurate, easy to use, portable, and can last for up to 30 hours.

Moreover, a handful of customer reviews commended the customer service department for their exemplary service, so you can rest-assured that any issue you may encounter will be addressed in the most professional manner.

What’s Not to Like

Though most are more than happy with the accuracy of the product, a minority of users have expressed concern about a slight delay in gaining readings from it. While this may be a slight issue in a professional environment, it should not be a problem for those using it at home, assuming a time-critical situation doesn’t arise.

Final Word

This oximeter boasts a 4.6 out of 5 rating from more than 3,000 reviews and it offers the perfect mix of reliability, portability and price. The slight delay in readings some users have reported is a small price to pay for such a quality product, plus if you do have issues the customer service offered by Santamedical is second to none.

3. Concord Emerald Fingertip Pulse Oximeter

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The Concord Emerald Fingertip is the perfect pulse oximeter for the sports enthusiast. It’s packed to brimming with features that will help you monitor your oxygen levels and pulse rate with the utmost comfort and effectiveness. Operating the unit is easy since you only have to use one button. It comes with many accessories (carrying case, a neck lanyard, a shock resistant protective rubber cover, and batteries) to accommodate your every need.

• Easy and intuitive One Button Operation
• Fast and accurate readings
• Accommodates a wide variety of finger sizes (pediatric to adult sizes)
• 2-Year Warranty

What’s to like about the Fingertip

For starters, this pulse oximeter is the number one choice of many cardiologists, internists, nurses, and casual users when it comes to monitoring a person’s oxygen and pulse rate. Given the accuracy and the fast response of the readings provided by this product, it’s not hard to see why.

It’s very well-constructed and has a rugged build well-suited for travel. Add the wide array of features that bolster the precision of the readings and you have a top-notch unit you can trust. The 2-year warranty is an added bonus that ensures you’re going to receive all the help you need in case of any issues with your purchase.

What’s Not To Like

While accuracy is a high point for this product, there are cases where the device is unable to provide the reading that customers would expect. This is particularly the case when using it on people who have cold fingers, or those suffering from peripheral vascular constriction. As such, if either of these is going to be an issue for you, it may be worth looking into another product.

Final Word

As long as the previously mentioned issues aren’t a cause for concern for you, this may be the best pulse oximeter available today. It carries a 4.6 out of 5 rating from more than 2,000 reviews and is regularly used at the professional level. The fact that it is well-built and capable of withstanding constant transportation is simply the icing on top of the cake.

4. Easy@Home Fingertip Pulse Oximeter

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This Easy@Home Fingertip is an FDA-approved pulse oximeter offers a myriad of features that give users the added flexibility to ensure the easy and functional handling of the unit. It’s easy to use since you only have to use one button. Just place a fingertip into the chamber and you can results in just a few seconds. Graphs are presented in two ways (waveform graph and bar graph) to provide a more comprehensive assessment of each reading.

You can see results from every angle owing to the rotating bright OLED display.

• Finger chamber accommodates all sizes
• Automatically shuts down 5 seconds after finger removal
• Package includes carrying case, neck/wrist cord, batteries, and a user manual
• Lifetime Hassle Free Product Replacement Warranty

What’s to like about the Easy@Home

This pulse oximeter received overwhelmingly positive reviews, averaging a whopping 4.7 from customers who have used it. Not surprising at all considering the excellent value it provides. It has everything you’d expect from a top-notch pulse oximeter unit: competitive price, intuitive operation, accuracy, portability, clear display, and long battery life.

The rotating OLED Display also gives it a leg up on the competition.

What’s Not To Like

Despite the fact that the name implies that this oximeter should be extremely easy to use, a few users have experienced issues with the battery compartment, reporting that it is often difficult to remove. Some have also questioned its accuracy, stating that it should not be used on people who are engaging in any form of activity, as this skews the readings.

Final Word

This oximeter comes with a wide range of functionalities, making it a great choice for people who want to get the most out of their device. It currently boasts a 4.7 out of 5 rating, suggesting that most have been more than happy with the results that it provides. Just be wary of the battery cover issue that some have reported.

5. Acc U Rate Premium Pulse Oximeter

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When it comes to delivering precision, nothing tops the Acc U Rate SM-310 Premium White Pulse Oximeter, even when measuring at low blood perfusion. This pulse oximeter allows users to measure oxygen saturation levels and pulse rates in an instant. One button is all you need to operate its extensive functions.

Readings are always reliable courtesy of the much-loved plethysmograph.

You can also view the results of your measurements from any angle using the unit’s dual color OLED display. If you love playing sports and doing outdoor activities, this pulse oximeter is a reliable companion.

• Measures blood oxygen saturation levels and pulse rates in seconds
• Rotatable dual-color OLED display for easy viewing from any direction
• Improved sensor to facilitate measurements even at low blood perfusion
• Easy one button operation
• Low power alert (automatically shuts off after 8 seconds of idle time)

What’s to like about the Acc U Rate

As of this writing, this is the highest rated pulse oximeter unit with an average of 4.8 out of 5. While I’m not ready to declare the Acc U Rate SM-310 Premium White Pulse Oximeter as the best one in the current market, it makes a strong case to lay claim to that distinction. It has everything, for starters.

It’s easy to use, provides accurate readings (even at low blood perfusion), and uses a super convenient rotatable OLED display. The simple yet sleek design is easy on the eyes too.

What’s Not To Like

A few users have taken exception to the instruction manual, claiming that it contains too much technical jargon and that it appears to have been written for professionals only. A minority have also experienced issues in regards to accuracy, though this may be as a result of a rare manufacturing defect rather than being common across all devices.

Final Word

The OLED display and the fact that it provides accurate readings practically every time make this a very desirable product, as evidenced by the 4.8 out of 5 rating from more than 400 reviews that it currently carries. However, the instruction manual may be a barrier to entry for people who are new to oximeters, so it may not be the best choice for beginners.

6. Santamedical SM-240 Pulse Oximeter

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Santamedical return with another oximeter that places accuracy and convenience high on the agenda. This makes the SM-240 an excellent choice for people who have never used this type of device before, with the simple screen offering the vital details that you need without cluttering it up with useless information.

Better yet, it has been designed for use by people who lead an active lifestyle, as it is remarkably lightweight and offers extremely low power consumption. As such, you should be able to get as much as 30 hours of constant performance from the device before you need to change its batteries.

• Includes a simple screen that highlights your PR and SpO2% for quick readings.

• Only weighs 50g, including batteries, making it very easy to carry.

• Comes with a full, 1 year warranty.

• Designed to last, making it ideal for use by sporting enthusiasts.

• Can last for up to 30 hours using only 2 AAA batteries.

What’s To Like About the Santamedical SM-240 OLED Finger Pulse Oximeter

A lot of people have praised the product for its build quality, stating that it is extremely well made and capable of withstanding levels of use that many other oximeters can’t take. A lot of people have also taken the time to comment on how user-friendly the product is, particularly when compared to other models that try to offer a more professional design at a higher price.

What’s Not To Like

Much like the Easy@Home oximeter, there have been a few people who have experienced issues accessing the battery compartment, with some people going so far as to cause damage to the device. A minority have also questioned the accuracy of its readings, though others have tested it against professional equipment and received good results.

Final Word

This is the best pulse oximeter for people who are looking for something lightweight that is able to stand up to more rigorous use. It’s user-friendly design and the fact that it simply offers the vital information that you need has resulted in it garnering a much-deserved 4.5 out of 5 rating from a couple hundred reviews.

7. Gurin GO-410 Finger Pulse Oximeter

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The Gurin oximeter has been designed with the idea of offering extremely fast readouts that can be easily read, no matter where you are. The bright OLED screen lights up whenever a reading is being taken, so you should never have any problems determining what the device has to say.

Its portability means that it can be taken practically anywhere without any issues, making it ideal for professionals who need to obtain accurate readings on the go, in addition to offering a superb option for home users. It also comes with a handy wrist strap to ensure it stays close to you when you’re on the move, without the danger of it slipping out of your pocket.

• The product is approved by the FDA and is able to offer accurate pulse rate and SpO2% readings.

• The bright OLED display makes the results very easy to ready.

• Exceptionally portable, with a lightweight yet sturdy design.

• Comes with an automatic power-off function in order to conserve battery life when not in use.

• Comes with a 1 year warranty.

What’s To Like About the Gurin GO-410 Finger Pulse Oximeter

A lot of people have praised the ease of use of the device, with the one-button feature that it offers allowing it to quickly record a reading without having to fiddle around with the oximeter. A number are also happy with the padding used in the device, claiming that it makes it more comfortable than other oximeters.

What’s Not To Like

Negative feedback for the product has been fairly thin on the ground, though one user mentioned inaccurate readings and another claims that theirs took a long time to deliver a result. These may be manufacturing issues that would be covered by the 1 year warranty offered with the device, as few others appear to have suffered these issues.

Final Word

This may be the best pulse oximeter for people who have never used one before and simply want a device that is capable of providing an accurate reading without them having to do anything more than insert batteries and press a button. It currently boasts a 4.8 out of 5 rating from more than 60 reviews, but more cautious buyers may want to wait until it has more before they spend their money.

8. Innovo Wrist Color Pulse Oximeter

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Innovo has built something of a reputation when designing products with a medical use, which means that buyers should be confident that their pulse oximeter is capable of offering exactly what it claims to.

Featuring a built-in alarm that alerts the user if they have placed the oximeter incorrectly, the device is able to measure your pulse rate alongside a couple of other metrics. All of this information is presented on an LED screen that is very easy to read, so you can always be aware of the condition of your body when using it.

• The upgraded version comes with Innovo’sSnugFit probe for improved usage.
• Measures SpO2 and Pulse Rate with superb accuracy, particularly thanks to the use of the new probe.
• Comes with advanced software that allows you to analyze the data that the device records.
• Features alarms to let you know if the device is being worn incorrectly, of if measurements are below the expected levels.
• Comes with a lithium battery and charger as standard.

What’s To Like About The Innovo Wrist Color Pulse Oximeter

A lot of users were delighted with the clarity offered by the bright LED screen, which makes it all the easier to review results. The quality of the new SnugFit system has also been praised, with most people stating that the device will stay on your finger all night, no matter how much you toss and turn in your sleep.

What’s Not To Like

A few users have reported issues with the technical side of things, with some experiencing issues with the USB cable or in getting it to pair with Bluetooth devices. A couple of users have also made reference to the quality of instructions provided, claiming that they are a little below par.

Final Word

With a 4.1 out of 5 rating, this may be the best pulse oximeter as long as it is used correctly. A few people have experienced issues with the instructions, so be wary of this. However, assuming you attach it to your finger is required, it is capable of offering superbly accurate readings.

Choosing from the Best Pulse Oximeter Reviews

When choosing the best pulse oximeter you need to take accuracy, ease of use and portability into account. Considering all of these factors, there can be no better choice than the Gurin GO-410 Finger Pulse Oximeter, which offers all of this at a very affordable price.

The Acc U Rate Premium Pulse Oximeter comes in a very close second, offering the same level of quality as the Gurin model, but coming with a set of instructions that appear to have been written more for professionals than home users. Alternatively, if you are looking for an oximeter that can take a bit of a beating, or want one that will provide accurate results when you are exercising, the Santamedical SM-240 OLED Finger Pulse Oximeter is also an excellent choice.

Staying Safe at Home: Correct Usage of Pulse Oximetry Tools

Lack of oxygen in the body can be an incredibly dangerous situation, leading to brain damage, heart failure and even death. Anytime oxygen saturation levels in the body drop below 95%, serious deterioration of bodily systems is likely to occur.

Pulse oximetry is one of the most important tools that health care providers use to keep your oxygen levels in a safe range, and they’re also available for use within the home. Here’s a quick overview of how to use them correctly.

Types of pulse oximetry devices

There are a variety of fingertip devices on the market that will measure your blood’s oxygen level, each of which have pros and cons. One of the units that is trusted by professionals around the country is the CMS 50-DL, a lightweight and inexpensive option with a variety of features including long battery life, an intuitive and easy to read display and it also comes with a neck or wrist cord and storage case.

It can be a bit slower than some other options, but the pros seem to far outweigh the cons on this particular product. Similar products include the Fingertip Pulse Oximeter from Easy@Home, and the Concord Emerald Fingertip Pulse Oximeter.

More Accurate Options

More accurate options can be a little more pricey, but the Acc U Rate Premium Pulse Oximeter delivers, with the ability to measure both pulse rates and oxygen saturation in an instant–with one-button simplicity. A rotatable OLED display allows for operation from all angles, a bonus for sports enthusiasts who need to watch their oxygen levels.

What can throw off readings?

Pulse oximetry is generally measured on a fingertip, and there are a variety of factors which can give you inaccurate or misleading readings. In general, to use the units you will place your palm out, insert your index finger into the measurement unit, and wait a moment to receive accurate pulse rate and oxygen level readings.

Tracking your daily oxygen levels is always encouraged so you can see what your normal range is. The use of nail polish and artificial nails can seriously impact the functionality as accuracy depends on measuring a good blood flow through the tissues. Cold fingers can also impact the readings, providing a reduced, low or abnormal reading so it is recommended that you rub your hands together to warm them up or wash them under warm water before attempting to take a reading.

Another factor that reduces the blood flow to your fingers and other extremities is smoking. Since the pulse oximeter is measuring the absorption of specific wavelengths of light, not only can smoking reduce your oxygen levels but it can also color the fingertips causing irregular results.

Patients with hypotension, hypovolaemia or hypothermia may also have poor results based on the level of their condition. Cardiac arrhythmias can also cause inaccurate measurements, as well as intravenous dyes, and tourniquets or pressure cuffs above the site of the measurement.

A final factor that could obstruct accurate results is the presence of dried blood, which could diffuse light which hits it, or having the sensor dislodged before accurate results are calculated.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1472779/