Quick answer
Pick an automatic upper-arm cuff that's been clinically validated, in the right cuff size for your arm. That matters more than the brand or price.Upper arm, automatic
The American Heart Association recommends an automatic upper-arm monitor for home use.
Clinically validated
Check the U.S. validated device list at validatebp.org. Many monitors on sale have never been tested for accuracy.
The right cuff size
Measure around the middle of your upper arm and match the cuff range on the box. A cuff that's too small gives falsely high readings.
Wrist monitors
Only if an upper-arm cuff doesn't fit you. Keep your wrist at heart level, because wrist readings change with position.
Smartwatches and phone apps
Most don't measure blood pressure accurately. Some watches can alert you to possible high blood pressure over time but don't give a reading, so confirm with a cuff. Apps that read blood pressure from a fingertip or camera aren't accurate.
Check it against your clinic
Bring your monitor to your next appointment and compare a reading with the clinic's.
Nice to have
Memory for past readings, or syncing to Apple Health, makes keeping a log for your doctor easier.
Questions people also ask
Sources
- American Heart Association (Monitoring your blood pressure at home)
- Shimbo et al., Hypertension (2020, AHA scientific statement)
- US Blood Pressure Validated Device Listing (validatebp.org).
General information, not medical advice.