In the last few years as technology has improved and become more accessible, many people have started to incorporate at-home EKGs, or personal EKGs, into their health routines. From individuals with heart conditions to athletes monitoring cardio fitness, people from every background have found peace of mind and a more proactive approach to managing their heart health by staying on top of their EKG data. There are various options on the market for individuals who want to track their heart health from home:
- Apple Watch
The Apple Watch® is a device worn on the wrist that tracks workouts, estimated calories burned, steps walked, and other metrics. According to Apple, “the ECG app on Apple Watch Series 4, Series 5, Series 6, or Series 7 generates an ECG that is similar to a single-lead (or Lead I) ECG.”1 The ECG app can check your recording for irregular rhythms, such as atrial fibrillation, low heart rate, and high heart rate.1 - Fitbit Sense and Charge 5
Fitbit devices are similar to Apple Watches in that they track various pieces of health data while users wear them throughout the day. Some Fitbit models, Sense and Charge 5, include EKG capabilities as well.2 Fitbit will generate EKG reports in the Fitbit app that outline results as either “Atrial Fibrillation,” “Normal Sinus Rhythm,” or “Inconclusive.” - KardiaMobile®
KardiaMobile® personal EKGs are designed specifically for the purpose of taking medical-grade EKGs. They are the most clinically validated personal EKG recording devices on the market and the #1 doctor-recommended personal EKG. There are two models of KardiaMobile devices: KardiaMobile, a single-lead (two electrodes) EKG, and KardiaMobile 6L, a six-lead (three electrodes) EKG. Both devices are FDA-cleared to detect up to six of the most common arrhythmias using the Kardia App, including atrial fibrillation, bradycardia, tachycardia, and premature ventricular contractions (PVCs). That’s more than any other personal EKG sensor in the world.
Additionally, KardiaMobile 6L is the only six-lead personal EKG, which provides a more in-depth view of your heart rhythm and may help your doctor identify cardiac arrhythmias such as atrial flutter and heart block.
It’s all about what you need
While all these devices share some qualities, like their app-powered user experience, not every personal EKG is quite the same. When picking the one that’s right for you and your lifestyle needs, keep these essential differences in mind.
Arrhythmia detection
While all three of these brands of at-home EKG devices can detect atrial fibrillation within a normal heart rate range, KardiaMobile and KardiaMobile 6L are the only personal EKG sensors that are FDA-cleared to detect six of the most common arrhythmias.
