Ever heard of a pulse oximeter?
We'd never heard of one either until our research showed many doctors recommend their use. A pulse oximeter is a small device that clips onto your finger and measures the blood oxygen saturation level in your blood. This information can be helpful for people with health concerns, athletes looking to learn more about individual performance, or you at home just looking to breathe easy.
If you are like many other people who don't like to go to the doctor, then using a pulse oximeter at home can help you personally stay on top of your health. They are not that expensive these days and are really easy to use. Just clip it on your fingertip and wait for the reading!
Read on to learn more about the benefits of using a pulse oximeter and where to pick one up. And once you've finished your review here, we hope you'll be ready to shop for an oximeter that best augments your personal health goals.
We hope you find a pulse oximeter that meets your personal requirements from our "Pick List," below! Our editors independently selected each brand and all opinions in this article are our own. Oh, and BTW — zBestGuide may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page if you decide to buy something (that's how we stay in business). Our reviews have been edited for length and clarity. Enjoy finding the perfect pulse oximeter for you and your family! ❤️👇
Pulse Oximeter- Our Selection Process
zBestGuide is here to help. We've used numerous “Best” Google searches to research and read multiple pulse oximeter reviews. We also examined the Amazon best-seller lists so that you don't have to. We've narrowed our selection down to 5 top-quality possibilities to meet various personal requirements; our "Pick List." If we can, we've added some useful tips and helpful hints so you can make the perfect buying decision for you. Ready, set... Go for it! 👇
zBG's Summary "Pick List:"
Zacurate Children's Digital Fingertip Pulse Oximeter
Zacurate Pro Series 500DL Fingertip Pulse Oximeter
CHOICEMMED Sky Blue Fingertip Pulse Oximeter
Roscoe Medical Fingertip Pulse Oximeter
Beurer PO30 Fingertip Pulse Oximeter
"Pick List" Details:
Zacurate Children's Digital Fingertip Pulse Oximeter
Product Details:
What More You Should Know
- Children's Pediatric Pulse Oximeter with an adorable animal theme – Specially designed for kids.
- Simple & easy one-button operation - Just put your finger into the chamber and measure your blood oxygen level (SpO2) and Pulse Rate in seconds.
- Includes a plethysmograph that indicates the amount of blood flow for additional accuracy.
- High-quality OLED screen display and rotatable multidirectional screen.
- Suitable for sport and/or aviation purposes - children age 2 and up. Comes with a free pouch-style carrying case, lanyard, and 2 AAA Batteries. This device is for Sports & Aviation use only and is not a medical tool.
Zacurate Pro Series 500DL Fingertip Pulse Oximeter
Product Details:
What More You Should Know
- ACCURATE AND RELIABLE - Accurately determine your SpO2 (blood oxygen saturation levels), pulse rate, and pulse strength in 10 seconds and display it conveniently on a large digital LED screen.
- FULL SPO2 VALUE - The ONLY LED pulse oximeter that can read and display up to 100% for SpO2.
- SPORT/HEALTH ENTHUSIASTS - For adult sports enthusiasts like mountain climbers, skiers, bikers, or anyone interested in measuring their SpO2 and pulse rate. SpO2 and Pulse Rate now face the user instead of away from the user for an easy read.
- ACCOMMODATES WIDE RANGE OF FINGER SIZES - Finger chamber with SMART Spring System. Works for ages 12 and above.
- LOADED WITH ACCESSORIES - 2X AAA BATTERIES included that will allow the pulse oximeter to be used right out of the box, a SILICON COVER to protect your pulse oximeter from dirt and physical damage, and a wrist cord for convenience. Comes with 12 months WARRANTY and USA-based technical phone support.
CHOICEMMED Sky Blue Fingertip Pulse Oximeter
Product Details:
What More You Should Know
- ACCURATE AND RELIABLE: ChoiceMMed oxygen meter fingertip pulse oximeter accurately determines your SpO2 in 10 seconds and can read and display up to 100% on a larger LED screen.
- EASY TO USE: Our pulse monitor is easy to use and has an efficient One Button Operation. The SPO2 Sensor will spot-check and display in real-time SpO2, PR, and Pulse bar graphs which is great for checking your pulse signal strength.
- OUT OF BOX READY: Our portable oxygen saturation machine comes with a durable protective pouch (with loop for belt), an Instruction manual, 2 AAA alkaline batteries, Neck lanyard (detachable and adjustable length) you'll be ready to use your portable oxygen sensor right out of the box.
- COMPACT AND LONG BATTERY LIFE: The oxygen saturation fingertip monitor is lightweight, easy to carry, and accommodates a wide range of fingers with soft wraps that won't stick. 40 hours battery life and automatic power off in 8 seconds.
- SPORT ENTHUSIASTS: This device is not intended for medical use. It's great for mountain climbers, bikers, trainers, aviators, and general sports enthusiasts to inspect SpO2 on the fly.
Roscoe Medical Fingertip Pulse Oximeter
Product Details:
What More You Should Know
- 10 SECOND PULSE & OXYGEN METER CHECK. The Roscoe Medical Pulse Oximeter Fingertip is a compact heart rate monitor and oxygen monitor that checks pulse rate & blood oxygen saturation levels (SpO2) quickly & accurately.
- GREAT FOR PHYSICALLY ACTIVE PEOPLE. The fingertip oximeter is perfect for runners, cyclists, & high performers looking to track their heart rate and SpO2 pulse oximeter level after engaging in sporting activities. Perfect for children too.
- ALL AGES | ALL FINGER SIZES. Our simple & ergonomic blood oxygen monitor accommodates all finger sizes, so both kids and adults can use it. A perfect blood oxygen saturation monitor for all ages.
- EASY-TO-READ DISPLAY. The Roscoe Medical Pulse Oximeter comes with a big digital LED display that shows your o2 saturation monitor readings in large, easy-to-read digits. There’s also a battery life indicator.
- BATTERIES & LANYARD. This oxygen monitor fingertip reader/checker comes with 2 triple-A batteries & a wrist lanyard. Also, this oxygen meter has a 12-month warranty against defects.
Beurer PO30 Fingertip Pulse Oximeter
Product Details:
What More You Should Know
- OXIMETER AND PULSE: Measure your blood oxygen saturation levels and heart rate in one small device – a wrist cord, protective storage bag, and batteries are included so you can use PO30 right away.
- COLOR DISPLAY: Our bright color display allows for easy viewing of your SpO2 and pulse data – the measurements are shown largely and clearly on the tool in real-time.
- SMALL AND PORTABLE: Our device is only 2 and a half inches long and weighs less than 2 ounces – the perfect size to take on the go for medical use, athletic use, or at high altitudes.
- AUTO-ROTATE DISPLAY: The data screen will rotate depending on the orientation of the device to clearly show your data from any angle – auto shut-off feature for this oxygen meter fingertip pulse oximeter.
- EASY TO USE: Place your finger into the fingertip oximeter and results are shown in seconds – stay on top of your health to monitor oxygen levels and heart rate data for heart problems, pulmonary diseases like asthma, during exercise, or while pregnant.
Pulse Oximeters- FAQs
It can be hard to find the best pulse oximeter for your needs.
Not all pulse oximeters are created equal. With all of the different brands and models on the market, it can be hard to determine which one is right for you.
We have done the research for you. Our team has reviewed a number of different brands and options to find several of the best models available.
Are cheap pulse oximeters accurate?
There is a lot of variability in the accuracy of different pulse oximeters. Consumer Reports did a study on the precision of different models and found that there was a lot of variability within and between models.
Interestingly, they also found that some less expensive models were just as accurate as more expensive models. So it really depends on which model you buy. It's important to do your research and read reviews before purchasing one to make sure you get an accurate one.
How long should I keep my finger in the oximeter?
Most people should aim to keep their finger in the oximeter for a minimum of 10 seconds. However, it is also important to make sure that you are not keeping your finger in the oximeter for too long, as this can artificially increase your blood oxygen levels.
What is a dangerously low oxygen level?
A dangerously low oxygen level is defined as a PO2 of less than 60 mmHg. When the PO2 falls below this threshold, the body's cells can no longer produce enough energy to function properly and begin to die. This can lead to a number of serious health complications, including heart attack, stroke, organ failure, and even death. Treatment for dangerously low oxygen levels typically involves supplemental oxygen therapy and/or mechanical ventilation.
Are all pulse oximeters the same?
No. Not all pulse oximeters are the same. There are three main types of pulse oximeters:
1) Spot-check or finger pulse oximeters - these are small, portable devices that measure oxygen saturation and heart rate by clipping onto a fingertip.
2) Handheld Pulse Oximeters - these larger devices are used to measure oxygen saturation and heart rate in a clinical setting.
3) Non-invasive Pulse Oximeters - these devices attach to a patient's forehead and measure oxygen saturation and heart rate.
What are three conditions that can give a false pulse oximetry reading?
Three conditions that can give a false pulse oximetry reading are incorrect sensor placement, low peripheral perfusion, and motion artifacts.
Incorrect sensor placement can occur if the sensor is not properly attached to the patient's skin or if it is covered by hair. Low peripheral perfusion can occur when there is decreased blood flow to the extremities, such as in hypothermia, shock, or generalized sepsis. Motion artifacts can be caused by the movement of the patient or the sensor.
What oxygen levels are too low with COVID?
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on the individual's health and overall oxygen requirements. However, in general, a level of oxygen saturation below 90% can be dangerous, especially for those with respiratory issues.
Are wrist pulse oximeters accurate?
There is a lot of variation in accuracy between different wrist pulse oximeters. Some are very accurate, while others are not as accurate.
One of the main factors that affect the exactness of a wrist pulse oximeter is the position of the probe on the wrist. If the probe is not in the correct position, then it will not give an accurate reading.
Another factor that can affect precision is skin pigmentation. Darker skin tones can produce inaccurate readings with some pulse oximeters.
How can I raise my oxygen levels quickly?
There are a few things you can do to raise your oxygen levels quickly. One is to exercise vigorously. This will increase your lung capacity and allow you to take in more oxygen. Another is to breathe deeply and slowly. This will help the oxygen enter your bloodstream more quickly. Finally, you can try using an oxygen concentrator or an oxygen mask. This will help you get more oxygen into your system immediately.
How can I check my oxygen levels without an oximeter?
There are a few ways to measure your oxygen levels without an oximeter. One way is to look at the color of your urine. Healthy urine should be pale yellow or straw-colored. If your urine is darker, it could mean that you're not getting enough oxygen.
Why does my pulse jump around on a pulse oximeter?
There are a few things that can cause your pulse rate to jump around on a pulse oximeter. One possibility is that the sensor is not properly placed on your fingertip. If the sensor isn't touching your finger properly, it won't be able to accurately measure your pulse. Another possibility is that you are experiencing cardiac arrhythmia, which is an abnormal heartbeat. If you are experiencing cardiac arrhythmia, the pulsing of your blood will cause your heart rate to jump around on the pulse oximeter screen. Finally, if you are very nervous or anxious, this can also make your pulse jump around on the screen.
What is the normal oxygen level by age?
There is no "normal" oxygen level by age. In fact, the normal oxygen level for any given person depends on a number of factors, including age, sex, height, weight, and activity level. For example, a sedentary 80-year-old woman is likely to have a different "normal" oxygen level than an active 20-year-old man.
That said, the average healthy adult typically has an oxygen saturation level somewhere between 95% and 98%. Anything below 92% generally indicates that you need more oxygen in your blood. If your oxygen saturation falls below 88%, it may be a sign that you're developing serious health problems.
May we say in conclusion...
So, what is the best pulse oximeter for home use? That’s a personal choice, right? However, we’ve scoured Amazon, Google Shopping, and other buyer reviews to find several quality options to choose from. We hope our "Pick List" has been valuable in helping you to find what you were looking for.
Tap the buttons above to “Check Prices” on our recommendations!
Thanks for spending time with zBestGuide and happy shopping! 👇
