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Devices to Measure Biometrics

To measure or track biometrics for Pacing and general illness management

Note: The statements here are from anecdotal reporting and user reviews, are general, and may not apply to all specific devices within each category.

Go back to “Biometrics, Measurement Devices and Tracking Apps"

Note that this is not a comprehensive list, but if you have a favourite not listed here, email feedback@mefm.bc.ca with why you like it and how it works.

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A general note on device accuracy

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While some devices may be more accurate than others, most devices are fairly consistent with themselves.

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This means you can compare different days’ results from the same device (to track changes and trends).

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But if you change devices, you can not reliably compare the measurements from the new device to the measurements from the old one.

Chest Strap

  • One of the most accurate device types for heart rate (compared to wrist, finger and smartphone devices)

  • Relatively inexpensive ($50-$150)

  • Always measures heart rate, and usually supports heart rate variability calculations

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Blue Line Stats.png

  • One of the least comfortable options to many people

  • Difficult to use continuously

  • Requires a linked device to store data

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Blue Line Stats.png

Wristband, smart watch or ring

  • May be less accurate than a chest strap, though these devices are improving all the time, and many users find them very acceptable for monitoring heart rate and other biometrics.

  • Wide range of costs, but usually quite expensive.

  • Some require a linked computer or smartphone (ex: Apple Watch)

  •  Apps that work with these sometimes require monthly membership fees

  • See here for a table comparing a few popular brands: Fitbit, Apple Watch, Garmin, Oura Ring, and Whoop.

Upcoming options of Note

Apple has just filed for patents for a ring that is expected to be quite good, but likely very expensive.

The Visible app is very popular and well-reviewed in the ME/CFS and Long COVID communities. They now offer Visible Plus that provides a wearable armband to add live-time and continuous monitoring for use with the app (and a membership). Visible Plus is being used to excellent reviews in the US now and is expected to be coming to Canada “soon.”

Smartphone

Smartphones sometimes work with other devices listed above to store data, track and create statistics on biometrics over time, and provide various apps with wide ranges of quality and functionality. However, Smart phones can also act as measurement devices themselves, such as for heart rate and heart rate variability.

  • The quality of the measurement is variable depending on the device and the app. For example, an app where you put your finger on the camera and light on the back of your phone is likely more reliable for heart rate than one that uses the camera to look at your face.

  • Smartphones as measurement devices can only take snapshots. As they are not worn, they do not provide continuous monitoring. Be sure you know what you want to measure and why before assuming your phone will or will not work for you.

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