The 6 Best Pulse Oximeters of 2024, Lab-Tested and Expert-Approved

Our Testing Process

With the supervision of medical professionals, the Health team tested 10 pulse oximeters in our Lab to see how easily and accurately they could measure our oxygen saturation. We evaluated each device for the following factors, which we determined to be the most important when choosing between pulse oximeters available for at-home use:

• Reading consistency and Accuracy: All of our testers were asked to abstain from wearing any nail polish on their fingers (it can interfere with test results), and hand warmers were provided to improve the accuracy of test results. We performed several tests. First, a medical professional measured our blood oxygen levels, and then we compared those results to the readings given by each pulse oximeter to see how close the readings were. We also repeated our testing on both hands five minutes apart and performed repeated tests before and after 30 seconds of vigorous exercise. 
• Setup and Ease of Use: We evaluated each device to see how ready it was to use right out of the box and how quickly and easily the display with our results could be read. As for fit, we considered how accommodating the device would be to many different sizes of fingers and whether we had any discomfort while using it, such as pinching or chafing.
• Data display: We considered how clearly our results were displayed and how easy it was to interpret them. We considered whether the device could store our data over time and whether it came with instructions for understanding readings and telling one type of reading (such as oxygenation) apart from another (like blood pressure or heart rate). For devices with app connectivity, we also assessed how our data was transmitted and recorded in the app and whether it could be shared with healthcare providers. 
• Portability: We noted its size, weight, and travel options, such as whether it comes with a storage case or lanyard for easy carrying.

The Experts

We consulted with a team of experts for their professional opinions to provide the most accurate information on using and purchasing a pulse oximeter.

• Thomas Yadegar, M.D., medical director of the intensive care unit at Providence Cedars-Sinai Tarzana Medical Center
• Luis Javier Peña-Hernández, MD, a lung health specialist at the Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Disorders Institute of South Florida
• David Portugal, M.D., Cardiologist at Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital.

What to Look for in a Pulse Oximeter

Ease of Use 

Any oximeter you choose should be easy to use. You may not have the time or ability to fiddle with devices that require a lot of setup or constant adjustments on your finger. The oximeter should also be easy to read and interpret, so you’re not left scratching your head over your results. You should also consider whether more than one person will need to use the oximeter and whether you need the device to store or record information for one person. You don’t have to opt for a super high-tech option, but your pulse oximeter should be of good enough quality to reliably provide the results you need. 

Fit 

Your pulse oximeter should fit well on your finger to increase the likelihood of accurate results. This means it should be able to open wide enough to fit your finger, close snugly (but not too tightly), and you should be able to leave it in place for as long as needed to get a reading. If your oximeter can’t accommodate your finger size, falls off while you’re waiting for a reading, or is otherwise uncomfortable while you’re using it, it might not be the right fit for you.

Accuracy 

Accuracy is the most important feature when choosing a pulse oximeter, so features highlighting whether light transmission is sufficient may be a helpful indicator of better accuracy.  Less expensive pulse oximeters do not necessarily correlate to less accuracy—so you should look for a device that’s accurate and easy to use, above all else.  

While you won’t usually be able to check your oximeter’s readings against a professional’s, you can test your device's accuracy and reading consistency in other ways. Try taking a reading, waiting one minute, and then taking another with the same finger (without moving around between readings). If the reading is the same or close to it, then that indicates that the oximeter gives you fairly consistent readings each time you use it. 

Also, according to Dr. Portugal, pulse oximeters are quite accurate for measuring heart rate. He adds that the only issue that may come up is if you have an irregular heartbeat or premature heartbeat. Sometimes, that can temporarily throw off the monitor and make it hard to obtain an accurate pulse rate on the spot.

Data display 

It is crucial for you to select a device that features a large and clear display, especially if you have any visual impairment. The bigger and brighter the display, the easier it will be for you to read. Additionally, you may want to consider a device that helps you understand how to interpret your readings. However, a healthcare professional can assist you with this, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions that might impact your readings.

At sea level, for an average person with no other health conditions, an oxygen saturation below 95% is likely abnormal, says cardiologist David Portugal, M.D., of Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital. A saturation below 90% would be considered significantly abnormal and could be a sign of a heart or lung condition.

If app connectivity is important for your oximeter, make sure to choose a device that can connect to either its designated app or the app of your choice. Many oximeters do not have this capability. Additionally, ensure that the app will display and record the information you desire, including blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygenation.

Portability 

At-home oximeters are usually small and portable, so you can easily carry them around in your pocket or purse. However, it's important to consider where you'll need to use it. You may also want to think about whether you prefer a carrying case or lanyard to keep track of your device, and make sure it's not too big or heavy to transport easily.

Type

According to Dr. Portugal, pulse oximeters are the same in basic terms: They use light waves to measure the oxygen concentration in the hemoglobin in red blood cells. The only difference, he says, is how it’s attached to the body: The most standard pulse oximeter you will likely find online or at the pharmacy is a clip-on device, whereas, in the hospital, disposable, adhesive-type oximeters are more common. If you want to streamline your devices, you may also be able to purchase a smartwatch that can serve as a pulse oximeter, Dr. Portugal notes, so you don’t need to keep track of multiple devices.

Who We Are

Sarah Bradley has been a freelance writer since 2017, tackling health commerce articles, product reviews, and shopping guides on everything from dry skin moisturizers and wart removers to menstrual cups and toothbrushes for braces. She personally tests products, so she knows what makes a good product stand out from a great one (and really, really wants to tell you about it).