How to Choose a Blood Pressure Monitor (2022)
Your blood pressure varies throughout the day, and how you’re feeling or how you’ve exerted yourself also play a huge part.
Given that readings fluctuate so often, getting your blood pressure tested at your GP may not be as accurate as you think.
Having a blood pressure monitor that you can use at home is a good way to monitor your blood pressure on a regular basis. This is particularly important for those who have high or low blood pressure or other health conditions that may affect their blood pressure.
In fact, this 2010 research has shown that self-monitoring is beneficial because it resulted in lower numbers for both the systolic and diastolic readings.
Studies have also suggested that home monitoring can help to control and manage blood pressure.
Some people may also be able to diagnose high blood pressure timely through home monitoring. For those with hypertension and who are just beginning to take medication, using a blood pressure monitor can assist to determine if they are working and what to adjust as needed.
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How Do I Choose a Good Blood Pressure Monitor?
Today, you don’t need to run down to your doctor to get your blood pressure tested. Modern technology has made it affordable for you to gain access to the same type of high-quality blood pressure monitors that doctors use.
When you’re choosing a good blood pressure monitor that’s suitable for your use, there are things you should consider before making a choice.
Typically, blood pressure monitors come in 2 forms: with an upper arm cuff or wrist cuff. What type of monitor should you get?
Let’s find out.
1. Your Lifestyle
Do you foresee yourself taking measurements at home most of the time, or are you a frequent flyer who is always on the go?
If you’re going to measure at home, it may be a great idea to choose a traditional blood pressure monitor with big displays and buttons for easy use. For travellers, you can get a lightweight upper arm model instead, or a wrist blood pressure monitor that is smaller and more convenient.
2. The Shape and Size of Your Arm
Measure the circumference of your arm. While every individual’s measurement may vary, modern arm cuffs are prepared for fluctuations with sizes that fit most people.
You can use a simple measuring tape to do so accurately to avoid getting the wrong size and inaccurate readings.
For example, Omron’s blood pressure monitors come with cuffs that fit arm sizes of 22-32cm (8.7-12.6 inches) and 22-42cm (8.7-16.5 inches). This determines the type of monitor to get – if your arm is within these sizes, it is recommended to buy an upper arm blood pressure monitor.
If your arm is bigger than 42cm (16.5 inches), you may want to consider getting a wrist blood pressure monitor instead.
3. Underlying Conditions
Do you have an underlying condition that requires you to monitor your blood pressure regularly?
Some conditions like pregnancy, obesity, and diabetes may increase your risk of heart disease or other related health problems. Taking your blood pressure regularly can prevent unwanted situations from happening and even provide warning signs of potential problems.
Taking your blood pressure with a monitor that is clinically validated and tested is extremely important. This enables you to have accurate readings that you can rely on.
What Is the Most Accurate Omron Blood Pressure Monitor for Home Use?
Omron blood pressure monitors are the top choice of both health professionals and individuals as the world’s leading brand.
They offer a wide range of blood pressure monitors that you can pick from depending on your requirements. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular models:
1. Omron HEM 7120
The Omron HEM 7120 blood pressure monitor is a great idea for those who just need a fuss-free and basic measuring device.
It’s recommended for those who are wondering what the easiest blood pressure monitor for home use is!
How Accurate Is Omron HEM 7120?
It comes with features like the enhanced IntelliSense Technology that automatically exerts the right amount of pressure for a quick and precise result. This makes it great for hypertensive users and people with heart rhythm problems, or other heart disorders.
You can only refer back to the last measurement for this!
2. Omron HEM 7121
The Omron HEM 7121 is largely similar to the 7120, but it takes technology a step further with 30 measurements instead of just the last measurement.
It is by far one of the most popular models because of its affordability, accuracy, and reliability.
3. Omron HEM 7600T Smart Elite Tubeless BPM
Omron HEM 7600T uses the newest tubeless technology to give you an easy one-touch measurement experience.
This uniquely designed blood pressure monitor boasts the ultimate ease of use – simply snap it onto your upper arm quickly. You can also sync it to Omron Connect using the Bluetooth-enabled function to get a comprehensive view of your health!
4. Omron HEM 7361T
The Omron HEM 7361T is an advanced blood pressure monitor capable of measuring blood pressure and detecting atrial fibrillation (AFIB) at the same time.
Use the Dual Check feature to assess your risk of stroke in one go. Its dual user function is made specially for families, sending measurement data of 2 different people to your smartphone conveniently.
Early detection of AFIB is very important in preventing the risk of stroke by up to 68%. This blood pressure monitor allows you to detect it, if any, at home and at your convenience.
Sync it to Omron Connect using Bluetooth to sync your data effortlessly.
5. Omron JPN500
The Omron JPN500 is made in Japan and features a unique look.
It has most of the other features of Omron blood pressure monitors to give users a fuss-free and accurate monitoring experience.
6. Omron HEM 7130L Deluxe
Omron HEM 7130L is a deluxe model that also comes with a wide-range soft cuff.
It enables users to take their blood pressure with ease. Apart from the usual outstanding features, it can also show the average of the last 3 readings within 10 minutes for a better assessment of your health.
7. Omron HEM 6161
The Omron HEM 6161 blood pressure monitor is a wrist monitor that is ideal for those who are constantly outdoors.
It is a basic model that is similar to the 7120 upper arm blood pressure monitor. The pre-formed cuff makes it easy to strap on and go with accurate measurements.
How Do I Choose My Omron Blood Pressure Monitor?
Many people, especially first-time buyers, are confused about the different choices of Omron blood pressure monitors available.
It can be difficult to choose the suitable one for your personal use if you’re not familiar with the different functions offered by each model.
Take a look at the comparison charts below for a better understanding!
| Model | Range | Type | Features | Cuff Size | Memory | Contents in Box |
| HEM 7120 | Basic | Upper Arm | – Hypertension Indicator – Enhanced IntelliSense Technology – Irregular Heartbeat Detection – Body Movement Detection | 22 – 32CM | Last Reading | 1x BPM 1x Cuff 4x AA Batteries |
| HEM 7121 | Standard (Value) | Upper Arm | – Hypertension Indicator – Enhanced IntelliSense Technology – Irregular Heartbeat Detection – Body Movement Detection | 22 – 32CM | 30 Measurements | 1x BPM 1x Cuff 4x AA Batteries |
| HEM 7600T | Premium | Upper Arm | – Tubeless Technology – Enhanced IntelliSense Technology – IntelliWrap Cuff – Irregular Heartbeat Detection – Body Movement Detection – Bluetooth Connectivity | 22 – 32CM | 100 Measurements | 1x BPM 1x Cuff 4x AA Batteries |
| HEM 7361T | Extra Premium | Upper Arm | – Dual Check: Detects Blood Pressure and Atrial Fibrillation (AFIB) Together – Hypertension Indicator – Average for Last 3 Readings in 10 Minutes – Enhanced IntelliSense Technology – IntelliWrap Cuff – Irregular Heartbeat Detection – Body Movement Detection – Bluetooth Connectivity | 22 – 32CM | 2 Users x 100 Measurements | 1x BPM 1x Storage Case 1x Cuff 4x AA Batteries |
| JPN500 | Premium | Upper Arm | – Made in Japan – Hypertension Indicator – Enhanced IntelliSense Technology – IntelliWrap Cuff – Irregular Heartbeat Detection – Body Movement Detection – Bluetooth Connectivity | 22 – 32CM | 60 Measurements | 1x BPM 1x Cuff 4x AA Batteries |
| HEM 7130L | Deluxe | Upper Arm | – Blood Pressure Level Indicator – Average for Last 3 Readings in 10 Minutes – Wide Range Cuff – Enhanced IntelliSense Technology – IntelliWrap Cuff – Irregular Heartbeat Detection – Body Movement Detection – Bluetooth Connectivity | 22 – 42CM | 60 Measurements | 1x BPM 1x Storage Case 1x Cuff 4x AA Batteries |
| HEM 6161 | Basic | Wrist Monitor | – Pre-formed Cuff – Hypertension Indicator – Enhanced IntelliSense Technology – Irregular Heartbeat Detection | 13.5 – 21.5CM | 30 Measurements | 1x BPM 1x Storage Case 4x AA Batteries |
How Do I Know If My Omron Blood Pressure Monitor Is Accurate?
Many people wonder how accurate home BP monitors, like the Omron upper arm monitors, are.
All Omron blood pressure monitors are clinically proven to be accurate.
In fact, they are clinically validated to be within the following:
- Blood pressure: within +/- 3 mgHg or 2 percent
- Pulse: within +/- 5 percent of reading
These meet or exceed the requirements set out by the Association of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI)’s standards.
Where Can I Buy My Omron Blood Pressure Monitor?
Ready to buy your own Omron blood pressure monitor?
You can find them sold at local pharmacies like Watsons, Guardian, and Unity. They are not sold at local supermarkets like Giant, NTUC FairPrice, Cold Storage, or even smaller supermarkets like Jasons.
However, you can buy your Omron blood pressure monitor on SeniorCare and enjoy it being delivered straight to your doorstep for convenience.