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The best blood pressure monitors for accurate readings at home, tried and tested
Keep on top of your heart health with our expert-approved picks
Tested by Kim HawleyHealth and Fitness Tester
Approximately one in three adults in the UK suffers from high blood pressure (also known as hypertension), but 46% of people are unaware they have the condition because it can be symptomless.
“High blood pressure is directly linked to poor heart health and can have serious health consequences if left unmanaged,” explains Dr Pallavi Bradshaw, deputy chief medical officer at AXA Health. “It can lead to heart attacks, stroke, aneurysms and heart failure, and is also linked to cognitive decline, including an increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s as well as complications affecting the kidneys and eyesight.”
The risk of developing hypertension increases with age, so it’s important to keep an eye on your blood pressure as you get older. Your GP might also ask you to track it at home if you have a high reading. The best way to do this? Regular blood pressure readings using an at-home monitor.
“Taking readings at home in a relaxed environment helps provide a clear picture of your typical levels, which is more accurate than a one-off reading at the GP practice,” says Bradshaw. "It's a great preventative method for anyone over the age of 40, helping to spot hypertension and related issues early on."
The best blood pressure monitors for home use
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With a vast range of at-home models available to buy – from smart monitors with accompanying apps to simple, fuss-free cuffs – our Good Housekeeping Institute experts put a selection of clinically validated devices through rigorous testing. Clinically validated means they have all been third-party tested and proven to meet accuracy standards. They judged each model on clarity of instructions, design, ease of use and accuracy before awarding overall scores. You’ll find a full breakdown of how we test below our reviews, along with guidance on how to choose the right device for your needs.
If you’re concerned about your blood pressure, always seek guidance from your GP. “If you’re feeling dizzy, unwell or your readings are consistently high or low, don’t delay and seek medical advice,” says Dr Nikita Kanani, GP and chief strategy and innovation officer at Aneira Health.
Pros
- Clinically validated by the BIHS (British & Irish Hypertension Society)
- Suitable for diabetics and pregnant users
- Clear instructions
Cons
- Only allows one user
Score: 89/100
Our top-scoring blood pressure cuff scored highly for clear instructions and ease of use, making it a reliable pick if this is your first foray into at-home monitoring. The manual includes step-by-step guidance on how to operate the device along with tips for positioning and timing.
There are just a few responsive buttons to start readings, change settings and review previous measurements. The screen is large and easy to read (although it isn’t backlit) and the unit can store up to 250 measurements, which is about four months' worth if data if you’re measuring twice a day. It comes with batteries and a connection cable, all stored in a neat case – handy for travelling.
Performance-wise, the device scored highly for accuracy. It has a three-reading average mode – which is recommended by doctors – and has an atrial fibrillation (AFib) detection mode to identify irregular heartbeat patterns.
Key specifications
| Type | Arm cuff |
|---|---|
| Power source | 4 x AA batteries |
Pros
- Clinically validated by the BIHS
- Suitable for diabetics and pregnant users
- Zip-up case handy for travel
Cons
- Memory function slightly complicated
Score: 83/100
Another upper arm cuff from Microlife, this simple model is at the more affordable end of the spectrum. It doesn’t have AFib detection like our winner, but it can store up to 99 readings for two users and will alert you if it detects heart arrythmia. It also comes with a zip-up case that you can easily take with you on the go.
Though there aren’t any diagrams, our expert found the instructions easy to understand and follow. They also liked the traffic light system on the unit, which lets you know whether your blood pressure is okay, needs monitoring or is high and you should seek advice from your GP.
Like the model above, it has a ‘average’ mode that takes three consecutive measures in one click, providing an average reading for greater accuracy. It also has a ‘cuff fit check’ that will let you know if the cuff isn’t on properly.
Key specifications
| Type | Arm cuff |
|---|---|
| Power source | 4 x AA batteries |
Pros
- Clinically validated based on protocols by the ESH (European Society of Hypertension) and BIHS
- Compact, travel-friendly design
- Easier to wear on wrist than upper arm for some
Cons
- Only allows one user
- Instructions could be clearer
Score: 82/100
If you’d prefer a wrist-worn monitor, consider this one from the experts at Omron. It’s lighter and less bulky than a traditional upper arm cuff, and it promises accurate readings as it’s validated to international standards.
It's straightforward to use – simply place it on your wrist, raise it to heart level (there’s a useful sensor to ensure optimal positioning and improve reading reliability) and press the button to start measuring. Our experts found the wrist strap comfy and they were able to adjust it without assistance. It automatically inflates and displays blood pressure readings, as well as pulse rate and heartbeat irregularities if detected.
You can review your readings on the device itself (it has memory for up 60 readings) or on the accompanying app, but it can only store readings for one user. The screen is large and simple to read, although we would have preferred a backlit display for ultimate ease.
Key specifications
| Type | Wrist cuff |
|---|---|
| Power source | 2 x AAA batteries |
Pros
- Clinically validated based on protocols by the EHS
- Comfortable cuff
- AFib detection and grading to assess risk over time
Cons
- Doesn’t provide an average based on three readings
Score: 82/100
If you’re on a budget, this simple but effective model from A&D Medical offers excellent value for money.
Our experts appreciated how simple it was to set up (there are detailed printed instructions, but no digital manual) and liked the large, responsive button for initiating readings. These are presented clear on a large, easy-to-read screen, where you can also switch user profiles and view previous readings.
Our in-house team found it performed well in terms of accuracy and consistency. They rated the addition of irregular heartbeat detection, with a frequency grading system to keep track of irregularities over time. What’s more, it can store up to 60 readings for four users and switching between user profiles is a hassle-free process. If you’re after a simple device for multiple users and don’t want to spend lots, it’s a good option.
Key specifications
| Type | Arm cuff |
|---|---|
| Power source | 4 x AA batteries |
Pros
- Clinically validated by the BIHS
- Carry case included
- Very simple to use
Cons
- Only allows one user
- No dates on past readings
Score: 82/100
The battery-powered device is a pleasure to use, with one simple button for all the functions. There’s a small white circle that indicates where the cuff should sit on your artery and, once in place, you're ready to get started. It features a traffic light system to let you know where you are on the hypertensive scale – which our experts thought was helpful – and has irregular heartbeat and AFib detectors.
The device can store up to 60 readings for a single user and provides an average of all your past readings to help you understand your data. You can also scroll back through your readings one at a time, but these aren’t dated so make sure you keep track yourself.
Though there's no backlight, the display was a good size and we had no issues with readings. We also liked the addition of a carry case to keep things organised.
Key specifications
| Type | Arm cuff |
|---|---|
| Power source | 4 x AA batteries |
Pros
- Clinically validated based on protocols by the EHS
- Large, easy to-read text
- Compact design with storage bag included
Cons
- Only supports one user
- Doesn’t provide an average based on three readings
Score: 79/100
Another option from A&D Medical, this is a compact, affordable cuff that delivers quick, accurate readings. It scored highly for set up and ease of use – it takes moments to get started and there’s just one large button for inflating the device and viewing your results. The LCD display shows your blood pressure readings along with your pulse rate and features the World Health Organisation blood pressure classification indicator, a colour coded system to show whether your readings are normal, elevated or high. There’s also an irregular heartbeat symbol so you can keep an eye on pulse irregularities over time.
Its memory function stores up to 30 readings for a single user, and the device comes with a storage bag, which is useful for taking on trips. For those looking for a lightweight upper arm cuff for individual use, it’s worth considering.
Key specifications
| Type | Arm cuff |
|---|---|
| Power source | 4 x AA batteries |
Pros
- Clinically validated to ISO-81060-2 standards
- Discreet, travel friendly band
- Simple to set up and use
Cons
- Pricey
- Lengthy charging time
- Not for those who want a traditional cuff
Score: 79/100
Not your typical blood pressure cuff, this sleek black band looks more like a fitness tracker. It's been CE certified as a class IIa medical device in Europe, and has been validated to meet regulatory standards for accuracy in measuring blood pressure.
The device measures your blood pressure at optimal times throughout the day and night, without any action required from you, giving you a broad view of your blood pressure patterns with minimal fuss. It uses a photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor to collect data from your wrist and sends it through to the Hilo app, where the algorithm estimates your blood pressure using pulse wave analysis. It also comes with a cuff for monthly calibration to make sure the readings remain accurate.
Our experts rated the well-thought-out app, where you can compare day and night averages, review your monthly trends and share reports with your doctor. You can also pay £4.99 a month for a Hilo membership, which gives you deeper health insights and personalised feedback. The device itself is waterproof so you can wear it all day long, and the battery lasts up to 15 days.
If you’re not a fan of traditional cuffs and want a device that provides continuous monitoring, then the Hilo band could be right for you.
Key specifications
| Type | Wrist-worn bracelet |
|---|---|
| Power source | Rechargeable lithium-ion |
Pros
- Clinically validated to standards set by the EHS and AAMI (Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation)
- Smart, compact design
- Well-designed app, which is easy to use
Cons
- Instructions could be clearer
- Some issues with Bluetooth connectivity in testing
- Battery level not displayed on the screen
Score: 78/100
This upper arm cuff has Bluetooth capabilities and automatically syncs with the Omron Connect app, which stores unlimited readings for one user. In the app, there are graphs to view your trends over time, colour-coded blood pressure classification charts and exportable reports that you can share with healthcare providers. Our expert said connecting to Bluetooth was a bit of a faff, but once up and running, it was a cinch to use and interpret their data.
The unit itself also stores 30 readings for one user, displaying blood pressure numbers and irregular heartbeat alerts on the neat display. It’s very simple to use (just press the start button to get going) and the clever device can pick up on factors that might cause a false reading like talking or body movements. The large cuff is designed to fit a wide range of body types comfortably and, thanks to the brand’s IntelliSense technology, it inflates to the optimal level for each user, preventing discomfort caused by over-inflation.
Note, it doesn’t take three consecutive readings to produce an average, so you’ll have to do this yourself if that’s a priority.
Key specifications
| Type | Upper arm |
|---|---|
| Power source | 4 x AA batteries |
Withings BPM Connect
Pros
- Clinically validated to standards set by the ESH and BIHS, and FDA cleared
- Sleek, portable design
- Helpful instructions
Cons
- Pricey
- Awkward to see the screen
Score: 78/100
Developed by cardiologists, this compact cuff from Withings is a good pick if you want to take measurements when you’re away from home. It doesn’t have a separate monitor or come with a bulky unit; instead, you view your readings directly on the cuff itself or via the accompanying Withings app. You can either use Bluetooth or connect over WiFi, so you don’t need to have your phone handy when taking measurements.
According to our tester, it’s easy to use from the start. They had no issues during the set-up process and appreciated the one ergonomic button for switching the device on, toggling through the users (it can support up to eight people) and confirming options. In the app, everything is presented clearly, with weekly, monthly and yearly trends available, and you can easily share full reports with your doctor. You can also share your blood pressure and heart rate metrics with apps like Apple Health.
Other plus points? It lets you take three consecutive measurements and calculates the average for greater accuracy, and there’s a colour-coded indicator on the screen to help you understand your readings quickly. It is on the pricier side and its techy features might not work for everyone.
Key specifications
| Type | Upper arm |
|---|---|
| Power source | Rechargeable battery |
How we test blood pressure monitors
Our in-house experts trialled a range of devices from popular brands that were all clinically validated, assessing each product based on a range of factors including usefulness of instructions, ease of use and, of course, accuracy.
First, they checked how clear the instructions were to read and how simple they were to follow. Devices with detailed information on how to measure blood pressure and interpret readings scored extra points.
Once set up, they assessed how straightforward the devices were to use, considering battery placement, charging and any accompanying apps.
Crucially, they analysed the accuracy of each device, following brand guidelines and taking three consecutive readings to ensure consistency. With digital devices, they also checked how quickly readings were exported to accompanying apps, how many users could be stored and whether accessing past data was easy.
Once all the testing was complete, our experts collated the feedback and awarded each product an overall score.
Why trust the Good Housekeeping Institute
With over 100 years of testing under our belts, we’ve got plenty of experience to draw on when it comes to analysing new launches, whether it’s the latest beauty releases, parenting essentials or tech buys.
Our senior sleep and wellness tester, Kim Hawley, looks after all our health reviews. She designs strict protocols to make sure we’re judging each product fairly and analysing them against their claims. Kim holds a level 4 personal training qualification and has over 20 years’ experience working in leading health clubs across the UK.
Our sleep and wellness editor, Priyankaa Joshi, transforms Kim’s findings into easy-to-read, honest reviews so you can make an informed design on your purchase. Priyankaa has over six years’ experience in health and wellness journalism, during which time she has interviewed multiple experts and written about hundreds of products, from the best treadmills to the best pelvic floor trainers.
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Features to consider when shopping for a blood pressure monitor
According to Bradshaw and Kanani, there are a range of factors to keep in mind when choosing the best blood pressure monitor for your individual needs.
Clinical validation: “Accuracy is key, so make sure to choose a monitor that’s been clinically validated by a reputable organisation such as the British and Irish Hypertension Society,” says Bradshaw.
Other validation issuing bodies including the EHS (European Society of Hypertension) and the AAMI (Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation).
All of the blood pressure monitors we tested have been clinically validated to international standards.
Type: Most medical professionals, including Bradshaw and Kanani, generally recommend upper arm monitors because they’re thought to be more reliable than wrist or finger models. That said, if you don’t get on with traditional upper arm models, look for wrist-worn devices with clinical validation.
These days, there are also an increasing number of wearable blood pressure monitors, like the Hilo Bracelet, which continuously monitor blood pressure 24 hours a day, providing a convenient way of managing hypertension on the go.
Comfort: If you’re testing twice daily, you want a device that feels comfortable against the skin. Most cuffs are adjustable to ensure a proper fit, but it’s a good idea to check the size so you don’t end up with a design that’s too big or too small for you.
Ease of use: The process of measuring your blood pressure at home should be as straightforward as possible, ensuring accurate readings and preventing stress. “Consider models with a one-button operation and a clear, easy-to-read display,” advises Bradshaw.
App connectivity and smart features: Some devices are able to sync to Bluetooth and can store unlimited readings within an app. These are worth considering if you’re technologically advanced, and can be especially helpful when it comes to sharing reports with your doctor. They also provide graphs and trends over time to help you keep on top of your health.
Also consider extra features like AFib detection and irregular heartbeat alerts, which can flag potential issues early on.
What does a blood pressure monitor do?
A blood pressure monitor is a device that allows you to measure your blood pressure outside of a clinical setting. “It typically consists of an inflatable cuff that goes around your upper arm or wrist and a digital screen which displays your results,” says Kanani.
“It works by temporarily stopping blood flow in your artery and then measuring how hard your heart is working to pump blood as the cuff deflates.”
Who should take their blood pressure at home?
While at-home monitors are recommended for individuals diagnosed with high or low blood pressure, Bradshaw says they can be useful for many others, too.
“Older adults, particularly those over 60, may benefit from regular monitoring as blood pressure tends to increase with age,” she explains. “Pregnant women are also advised to keep an eye on their blood pressure, as conditions like gestational hypertension and preeclampsia can develop.”
Additionally, they can be beneficial for those with conditions including diabetes, kidney disease and heart disease, as well as those taking medication that can affect blood pressure like beta blockers.
Note that you shouldn't use them to diagnose yourself – results should always be shared and discussed with a medical professional.
What does your blood pressure reading mean?
Kakani explains that the result is shown as two numbers, for example 120/80 mmHg. The top number (systolic) reflects the pressure when your heart beats while the bottom number (diastolic) indicates the pressure when your heart rests between beats.
- Normal is generally considered to be between 90/60 mmHg and 120/80 mmHg.
- Consistent readings above 135/85mmHg may indicate high blood pressure. You should contact your GP if this is the case.
“It’s important to note that one high reading isn’t usually a concern. It’s the trend over time that matters,” stresses Kakani.
How do you take your blood pressure at home?
Here, Kanani provides a step-by-step guide for taking your blood pressure at home using an upper arm cuff:
- Rest quietly for five minutes before taking a reading
- Sit upright with your feet flat on the ground and your arms supported at heart level
- Place the cuff on bare skin, about two to three centimetres above the elbow crease
- Don’t talk, move or cross your legs during the reading
- Take two readings, one minute apart, and record both
- Do this at the same time each day for consistency
“Keep a diary or use an app to track your results and share these with your doctor,” she adds.
When should you take your blood pressure?
“Ideally, twice a day – once in the morning before breakfast and medication, and then again in the evening,” advises Kanani. “Try to measure it at the same time each day, and avoid caffeine, alcohol and exercise for at least 30 minutes beforehand.”
The verdict on blood pressure monitors
Our winner, the Microlife Watch BP Home A Blood Pressure Monitor, is easy to use and provides accurate readings. It also has additional features like an AFib detection mode and has been clinically validated by the BIHS.
If you're on a budget, the A&D Medical UA-767F Upper Arm Monitor is a reliable choice for under £40. It has a large, clear screen, one main button to keep things simple and it can store readings for up to four users.
If you're after a travel-friendly device, the Withings BP Connect Blood Pressure Monitor is as compact as they come. It connects to WiFi, has a user-friendly app for monitoring your stats and can be stored in your handbag or rucksack easily.
Priyankaa is our sleep and wellness expert, specialising in expert-tested reviews and roundups on the latest health and fitness products. From walking boots to running machines, Priyankaa has written about hundreds of products and is passionate about providing in-depth, unbiased reviews. Plus, as an avid runner and gymgoer, she knows exactly what to look for when finding the right gymwear, fitness tracker or earphones.
Priyankaa has an MA in Magazine Journalism from Cardiff University and over five years’ experience in health and fitness journalism. Priyankaa has written for Stylist’s Strong Women Training Club, where she regularly wrote about diversity in the fitness industry, nutrition tips, training advice and her experience completing various fitness challenges. She has also written for a variety of publications including Business Insider, Glamour, Bustle, Metro, HuffPost UK, gal-dem and more. Outside of work, Priyankaa can usually be found trying out a new gym class, seeking out London's best eats or watching a Spanish TV show in a bid to keep up her language skills.
Kim Hawley is our health and fitness product tester. Her career in fitness has spanned over 30 years. Prior to joining the Good Housekeeping Institute, she worked as a personal trainer, writer and fitness instructor for some of London’s most prestigious health clubs, including The Harbour Club, David Lloyd and The Chelsea Club. Passionate about women’s health and fitness, especially in pre/post menopause, she is also a Level 4 PT and holds a professional nutritional qualification. Kim is responsible for rigorously testing everything from cross trainers to smart watches.
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