Best Running Heart Rate Monitors of 2026

Arlen Smith Avatar
Arlen Smith
Last Updated: Jan 13, 2026

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Running heart rate monitors are an essential tool for any runner looking to track their performance and improve their fitness levels. These devices come in a variety of styles and designs, from wrist-worn monitors to chest straps that measure heart rate and other metrics. Many running heart rate monitors also offer features such as GPS tracking, distance tracking, and calorie counting to provide a comprehensive view of the user's workout. Whether training for a race or simply trying to stay in shape, a running heart rate monitor can be a valuable asset in achieving fitness goals.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Garmin HRM 600 Heart Rate Monitor Cover #TOP 1
Garmin HRM 600 Heart Rate Monitor
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Scosche Rhythm R+2.0 Cover #TOP 2
Scosche Rhythm R+2.0
ftb score rating icon 9.7
COOSPO Bluetooth Heart Rate Monitor with Dual Mode Connection Cover #TOP 3
COOSPO Bluetooth Heart Rate Monitor with Dual Mode Connection
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 5 Running Heart Rate Monitors

#TOP 1

Garmin HRM 600 Heart Rate Monitor

010-13383-00
Black
M-XL
Garmin HRM 600 Heart Rate Monitor Cover
Garmin® HRM 600 Premium Heart Rate Monitor, Accurate Heart Rate and HRV Data, Running Dynamics, Stand-Alone Activity Recording, M-XL

The Garmin HRM 600 Monitor delivers precise real-time heart rate and heart rate variability data, helping you track your fitness accurately when paired with compatible Garmin devices and apps. Its comfortable, machine-washable strap comes in two sizes, ensuring a perfect fit for different body types, so you can wear it without discomfort during workouts. The monitor also provides detailed running insights like step speed loss, stride length, and ground contact time balance, which can help you improve your running form and performance. Plus, if you’re engaged in activities where wearing a watch isn’t practical, like team sports, this device records your workout data and syncs it to the Garmin Connect app, keeping all your stats in one place.

What We Like
Accurate heart rate tracking
Rechargeable battery
Detachable sensor module
Seamless device connectivity
Comfortable fit
#TOP 2

Scosche Rhythm R+2.0

Rhythm+ 2.0
Black
11.5 x 1.5 x 0.5"
Scosche Rhythm R+2.0 Cover
Scosche Rhythm+ 2.0 Heart Rate Monitor Armband for Running, Cycling, Exercise & Recovery with Bluetooth, ANT+, Optical Sensor for HRV & RRi Data, IP68 Waterproof Fitness Tracker with 24hr Battery Life

The Scosche Rhythm R+2.0 is a waterproof and dustproof armband that allows for hyper accurate workout heart rate monitoring. With its integrated optical sensor and built-in accelerometer, you can track your heart rate in real-time and monitor the intensity of your workout. This helps ensure that you are keeping your heart rate within your target zone. The armband also features an extended battery life, lasting up to 24 hours on a full charge, and a low battery indicator light to help you track battery life. Made with durable and waterproof materials, it is perfect for swimming, running outdoors, and other intense workouts. The Scosche Rhythm R+2.0 is compatible with all major fitness apps, exercise equipment, and sporting equipment, thanks to its ANT+ and Bluetooth support. Its adjustable and comfortable design allows for a secure fit on your upper forearms, biceps, or triceps, so you can focus on your workout without worrying about the band slipping off. Backed by Scosche's 1 Year Exchange Warranty and Lifetime Tech Support, the Scosche Rhythm R+2.0 is a reliable and versatile heart rate monitor.

What We Like
Exceptional accuracy
Comfortable fit
Fast charging
Durable construction
Affordable price
#TOP 3

COOSPO Bluetooth Heart Rate Monitor with Dual Mode Connection

H808S
Black
1 Count (Pack of 1)
COOSPO Bluetooth Heart Rate Monitor with Dual Mode Connection Cover
COOSPO Bluetooth Heart Rate Monitor Chest Strap H808S, ANT+ BLE HR Monitor Chest, HRM IP67 Waterproof, Use for Running Cycling Gym and Other Sports

COOSPO Heart Rate Monitor is a wireless device that has LED light and beep reminding feature, with a comfortable adjustable chest strap. It is compatible with third-party apps such as Peloton, Strava, Wahoo Fitness, Polar Beat, DDP yoga, and other fitness devices. The heart rate monitor is also compatible with gym equipment and sports watches. It provides accurate heart rate data and has a battery life of 300 hours.

What We Like
Durable and reliable
Easy to set up and connect
IP67 waterproof rating

COOSPO HW9 Armband Heart Rate Monitor

Small
COOSPO HW9 Armband Heart Rate Monitor Cover
COOSPO HW9 Heart Rate Monitor Bluetooth ANT+ Armband with Accurate HR Zones/Calories Burned Data, HRM Optical Sensor for Fitness Training/Cycling/Running,Compatible with Peloton,DDP Yoga,Wahoo APP

The COOSPO HW9 Heart Rate Monitor is a versatile and convenient armband that uses optical heart rate technology to provide accurate heart rate and calorie burn data. With a monitoring error of just ±1BPM, you can trust that your heart rate readings are reliable. The armband also features a 5-color LED indicator light for heart rate zone training, allowing you to optimize your intensity levels at the right time. It supports heart rate variability (HRV) function, and the soft, breathable, and adjustable band ensures comfort during all types of training and exercise. With Bluetooth 5.0 and ANT+ connectivity, you can easily connect the HW9 to GPS bike computers, fitness devices, and running watches. The COOSPO HW9 Armband Heart Rate Monitor is compatible with over 200 apps, including popular ones like Wahoo Fitness, Strava, and Zwift. With a rechargeable battery that provides up to 35 hours of usage, fast charging, and a magnetic charger, this heart rate monitor is a reliable and long-lasting fitness companion.

What We Like
Accurate heart rate and calorie tracking
5-color LED indicator for heart rate zone training
Comfortable and adjustable armband
#TOP 5

moofit HR8 Heart Rate Monitor Chest Strap, Low Energy Real-Time Heart Rate Data Bluetooth 5.0/ANT+, Longer Communication Range, IP67 Waterproof

black
moofit HR8 Heart Rate Monitor Chest Strap, Low Energy Real-Time Heart Rate Data Bluetooth 5.0/ANT+, Longer Communication Range, IP67 Waterproof Cover
moofit HR8 Heart Rate Monitor Chest Strap, Low Energy Real-Time Heart Rate Data Bluetooth 5.0/ANT+, Longer Communication Range, IP67 Waterproof, Compatible with iOS/Android Apps, Gym Equipment, Black

Features
Bluetooth5.0 & ANT+ Dual Mode - HR8 Has Integrated With Bluetooth 5.0 & ANT+ Technology And Connects To Various Fitness Equipment, Fitness Apps, And Sports Watch, With A Stable Transmission. ANT+: Wahoo, IGPSPORT, Bryton, Black Bird. Bluetooth 5.0: CoospoRide, Onelap, Strava, Kinomap, Wahoo Fitness, TrainerRoad, Rouvy, Fulgaz, Openrider, Elite HRV.
Premium Heart Rate Monitor - Newly Designed Moofit HR8 Heart Rate Monitor With A Chest Strap Provides Low Energy, Stronger Algorithms, And Longer Communication Distance. Accuracy Up To ±1 Bpm Is
Versatility - Package Dimensions: 9.3 L X 4.2 H X 5.1 W (centimeters), Package Weight: 66g. IP67 Sweatproof Waterproof, Lightweight Heart Rate Monitor HR8 Suitable For All Sports Such As Cycling, Fitness, Soccer, Running, Etc. Best Choice For Fitness Enthusiasts! But Is Not Recommended For Swimming.
Replaceable Battery - The Heart Rate Monitor Comes With A Replaceable Battery CR2032, Low Energy Technology, Replaceable Battery Can Be Continued Use For Up To 500hrs.
Moofit Replacement Straps - HR8 Comes With A Breathable Chest Strap, Improved Electrodes, And An Easy-To-Use Buckle, And The Length Is Adjustable From 63.5 Cm To 132 Cm. Comfortable And Interference-Free, Stays Put When You're On The Move.
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best heart rate monitor for running?

The 5 Best Heart Rate Monitors For Runners. Shop Wahoo TICKR X on Amazon. Wahoo TICKR X on Back Country.Shop Wahoo TICKR Fit on Amazon. Shop Wahoo TICKR Fit on Back Country.Shop Jabra Elite Sport Earbuds on Amazon. Shop Jabra Elite Sport Earbuds on Jabra.Shop Frontier X At Fourth Frontier.Shop Forerunner 245 Music on Amazon.

2. Is a heart rate monitor worth it for running?

Heart rate monitors are by no means an essential tool for fitness or even competition. "A heart rate monitor isn't necessary for anyone," says running coach Matt Fitzgerald, author of The New Rules of Marathon and Half-Marathon Nutrition.

3. Which heart rate monitor is the most accurate?

Best Overall: POLAR H10 Heart Rate Monitor With built-in memory, precise readings, extra-long battery life of 400 hours, and Bluetooth and ANT+ compatibility with apps, watches, and cardio machines, it has everything you need. It's perfect for runners, cyclists, swimmers, and other fitness enthusiasts.

4. Do elite runners use heart rate monitors?

No heart rate monitor, no lactate testing, no altitude room. "I always just go out there and run," he says. "I want to be able to go anywhere and train non-stop, full time without having to worry about when I have to be in an altitude tent or something like that.”

Editor's Notes

During our running heart rate monitor research, we found 24 running heart rate monitor products and shortlisted 5 quality products. We collected and analyzed 84,988 customer reviews through our big data system to write the running heart rate monitors list. We found that most customers choose running heart rate monitors with an average price of $91.05.

The running heart rate monitors are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of running heart rate monitors, including Garmin, Scosche, CooSpo, moofit. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 67 consumers with an average rating of 4.3.

Written by
Arlen Smith Avatar

Arlen Smith is a writer and a surfer who lives in Los Angeles, he runs a popular blog that focuses on surfing skills and popular surf spots around the world. He enjoys the sun, the beach and the feeling of surfing. His expertise ranges from categories such as climbing, swimming, boating and outdoor sports.