Best Heart Rate Monitors (2025), WIRED Tested and Reviewed

In 2025, WIRED conducted a thorough review of the latest heart rate monitors on the market to determine the best options for consumers. After rigorous testing and evaluation, the following heart rate monitors emerged as the top choices:

1. Garmin Forerunner 945: WIRED praised the Forerunner 945 for its accurate heart rate tracking and advanced features such as GPS, workout tracking, and sleep monitoring.

2. Apple Watch Series 8: The latest Apple Watch impressed WIRED with its seamless integration with iOS devices, sleek design, and comprehensive health tracking capabilities.

3. Fitbit Charge 5: WIRED highlighted the Charge 5 for its affordable price point, long battery life, and user-friendly app interface.

4. Polar Vantage V2: This high-end heart rate monitor received praise from WIRED for its precision heart rate tracking, robust training features, and compatibility with third-party apps.

5. WHOOP Strap 4.0: WIRED commended the WHOOP Strap for its unique subscription-based model, which provides personalized insights into sleep, recovery, and exercise intensity.

Overall, WIRED’s review of the best heart rate monitors in 2025 highlighted a range of options to suit different preferences and budgets. Whether you’re a serious athlete looking for advanced training metrics or a casual fitness enthusiast wanting to track your daily activity, there’s a heart rate monitor on this list for you.