Imagine a tiny device on your wrist that could silently watch over your heart. That’s the reality with modern smartwatches now capable of detecting Atrial Fibrillation, or AFib. This irregular heartbeat is a serious condition many people don’t even know they have until it causes major problems. For years, checking for AFib meant special doctor visits and bulky equipment. Now, your everyday watch promises a simpler solution.
But which smartwatch actually does the best job? The market is flooded with models boasting heart health features, leaving potential buyers confused. You want accuracy, ease of use, and reliability, but sorting through technical jargon feels overwhelming. Choosing the wrong one means missing vital health warnings or wasting money on features you don’t need.
This post cuts through the noise. We will break down the key technologies smartwatches use to spot AFib, compare the top contenders on the market, and explain what their readings actually mean for your health. Get ready to learn exactly which device offers the best peace of mind for your heart. Let’s dive into finding the best smartwatch guardian for your heart rhythm.
Top Smartwatch To Detect Afib Recommendations
No. 1
Fitbit Sense 2 Advanced Health and Fitness Smartwatch with Tools to Manage Stress and Sleep, ECG App, SpO2, 24/7 Heart Rate and GPS, Shadow Grey/Graphite, One Size (S & L Bands Included)
- Learn to manage stress, sleep better and live healthier with Sense 2—our most advanced health and fitness smartwatch.Human Interface Input: Touchscreen
- Manage stress and live healthier: all-day stress detection with cEDA and daily Stress Management Score, ECG app for atrial fibrillation assessment(1), irregular heart rhythm notifications(2), SpO2(3), health metrics dashboard(4), mindfulness content
- Measure and improve sleep quality: personalized Sleep Profile(5), daily sleep stages & Sleep Score, smart wake alarm and do not disturb mode
- Enhance activity: built-in GPS and workout intensity map, Daily Readiness Score(5), Active Zone Minutes, all-day activity tracking and 24/7 heart rate, 40+ exercise modes and automatic exercise tracking, water resistant to 50 meters
- Designed for all-day wear: on-wrist Bluetooth calls, texts and phone notifications(6), customizable clock faces, Fitbit Pay(7), Amazon Alexa built-in(8), Google Wallet & Maps (Google Maps on Android only, coming Spring 2023 to iOS), 6+ day battery(9)
No. 2
Fajocru Fall Detection Smart Watch for Seniors with GPS Tracking & HD Video Call – Family Alert System, 4G Standalone Safety Watch for Dementia/Alzheimer’s Caregivers (Retro, Black)
- 【Instant Fall Detection & Automatic Alerts】 Equipped with high-sensitivity sensors, it automatically sends location-based alerts to preset contacts when a fall is detected, providing additional safety for seniors and individuals with Alzheimer's.
- 【Designed for Ease & Clarity】 A simple interface with large text & icons, plus crystal-clear two-way video calling, making every conversation effortless and joyful.
- 【One-Touch Clear Voice Time Announcement 】 Equipped with a dedicated time-telling button. A single press triggers an extra-loud voice broadcast of the current hour and minute. With adjustable volume, it ensures clear and easy listening in any environment—whether in noisy settings or at home—making daily routines more convenient.
- 【Customizable Safe Zones 】Allows you to freely draw multiple safe areas on the map. The system sends real-time push notifications to your linked phone when the wearer enters or leaves a zone, enabling prec.
- 【Durable, Long-Lasting & Practical Daily Assistant】Features a large-capacity battery for extended endurance, water resistance, and integrates useful daily functions such as step counting, alarm clock, photo capture, and more—truly a reliable smart safety companion.
No. 3
Fitbit Sense 2 Advanced Health and Fitness Smartwatch with Tools to Manage Stress and Sleep, ECG App, SpO2, 24/7 Heart Rate and GPS, Lunar White/Platinum, One Size (S & L Bands Included)
- Learn to manage stress, sleep better and live healthier with Sense 2—our most advanced health and fitness smartwatch.Operating temperature : 14° to 113° F (-10° to 45° C)..Band material type : Silicone
- Manage stress and live healthier: all-day stress detection with cEDA and daily Stress Management Score, ECG app for atrial fibrillation assessment(1), irregular heart rhythm notifications(2), SpO2(3), health metrics dashboard(4), mindfulness content
- Measure and improve sleep quality: personalized Sleep Profile(5), daily sleep stages & Sleep Score, smart wake alarm and do not disturb mode
- Enhance activity: built-in GPS and workout intensity map, Daily Readiness Score(5), Active Zone Minutes, all-day activity tracking and 24/7 heart rate, 40+ exercise modes and automatic exercise tracking, water resistant to 50 meters
- Designed for all-day wear: on-wrist Bluetooth calls, texts and phone notifications(6), customizable clock faces, Fitbit Pay(7), Amazon Alexa built-in(8), Google Wallet & Maps (Google Maps on Android only, coming Spring 2023 to iOS), 6+ day battery(9)
No. 4
Fitbit Sense 2 Advanced Health and Fitness Smartwatch with Tools to Manage Stress and Sleep, ECG App, SpO2, 24/7 Heart Rate and GPS, Blue Mist/Pale Gold, One Size (S & L Bands Included)
- Learn to manage stress, sleep better and live healthier with Sense 2—our most advanced health and fitness smartwatch
- Manage stress and live healthier: all-day stress detection with cEDA and daily Stress Management Score, ECG app for atrial fibrillation assessment(1), irregular heart rhythm notifications(2), SpO2(3), health metrics dashboard(4), mindfulness content
- Measure and improve sleep quality: personalized Sleep Profile(5), daily sleep stages & Sleep Score, smart wake alarm and do not disturb mode
- Enhance activity: built-in GPS and workout intensity map, Daily Readiness Score(5), Active Zone Minutes, all-day activity tracking and 24/7 heart rate, 40+ exercise modes and automatic exercise tracking, water resistant to 50 meters
- Designed for all-day wear: on-wrist Bluetooth calls, texts and phone notifications(6), customizable clock faces, Fitbit Pay(7), Amazon Alexa built-in(8), Google Wallet & Maps (Google Maps on Android only, coming Spring 2023 to iOS), 6+ day battery(9)
No. 5
Audar E2 Senior Smartwatch with Fall Detection & SOS, 24/7 Heart Rate, Blood Pressure, SpO₂ & Temperature Monitoring, IoT AI Wellbeing Reports/Health History, Cloud Dashboard, No Cell Phone/App Needed
- REMOTE HEALTH MONITORING - Audar E2 features built-in sensors to track heart rate, blood pressure, blood oxygen and body temperature automatically on a customizable schedule for every 0.5, 1, 2 or 4 hours or manually. Charts for daily, weekly, monthly and yearly records can be viewed on Audar Health dashboard. Keep your wrist still during measurements and calibrate the device using a blood pressure cuff (not included) for maximum reliability.
- AI WELLBEING WEEKLY REPORTS - can be generated and viewed anywhere in the world on Audar Health dashboard. The reports are created using the wearers health data captured by Audar E2. An overview and trends within the weekly health profile may help identify unusual phenomenon that require continuous monitoring and further attention. 10 complementary reports are offered and each additional report will cost $1.85.
- EMERGENCY SOS AND FALL ALERT – the watch responds automatically to falls and sends messages initiated by the SOS panic button, with location generated instantly. Messages can be sent to designated on-line receivers and specified phones via SMS and call message. Public emergency numbers (999 or 911) cannot be used for alerts. SMS cost $1.40 for 4 messages and phone message is $1.40. Some landlines may not receive SMS.
- AUDAR HEALTH REMOTE PLATFORM – connects the watch in real-time with unlimited data. Measurement schedules and watch settings can be alerted remotely from any internet connected device and viewed by multiple carers in any locations. Vital signs deviations beyond set safety thresholds can be automatically sent as an alert to designated receivers. The wearer only needs to wear the watch for peace of mind of all of your family members.
- STAY CONNECTED ANYWHERE - Audar E2 has a built-in SIM that connects directly to low-cost IoT networks in 20+ counties without roaming charges and phone, App or Bluetooth required. The connectivity is included for the first year followed by a $35 fee per annum afterwards. The battery works up to 10 days assuming one measurement an hour and remains in standby up to 30 days. The watch is light, slim and waterproof with magnetic straps for easy fitting.
No. 6
Yihou Fall Detection Smart Watch for Seniors Fall Alert Watch with SOS Heart Rate Monitor Sleep Monitoring Pedometer for Android iOS Rosegold Silicone
- SOS Emergency Call, Quick Help Anytime：With one press, the watch connects to preset contacts for immediate help, offering peace of mind for elderly users and their families.
- Fall Detection with Automatic Alerts：If a fall is detected, the watch sends an alert to family contacts after a countdown, ensuring rapid response in emergencies.
- Remote Family Monitoring：Share health data like steps, heart rate, and sleep through the app, allowing family to care for elderly members anytime.
- Bluetooth Calling & Daily Reminders：Answer or dial calls directly on the watch, with added alarms, sedentary alerts, and notifications for daily convenience.
- Sleep & Heart Rate Tracking：Monitors sleep duration, stages, and heart rate around the clock, helping elderly users rest better and maintain health.
No. 7
Audar E2 Senior Smartwatch with Fall Detection & SOS, 24/7 Heart Rate, Blood Pressure, SpO₂ & Temperature Monitoring, IoT AI Wellbeing Reports/Health History, Cloud Dashboard, No Cell Phone/App Needed
- REMOTE HEALTH MONITORING - Audar E2 features built-in sensors to track heart rate, blood pressure, blood oxygen and body temperature automatically on a customizable schedule for every 0.5, 1, 2 or 4 hours or manually. Charts for daily, weekly, monthly and yearly records can be viewed on Audar Health dashboard. Keep your wrist still during measurements and calibrate the device using a blood pressure cuff (not included) for maximum reliability.
- AI WELLBEING WEEKLY REPORTS - can be generated and viewed anywhere in the world on Audar Health dashboard. The reports are created using the wearers health data captured by Audar E2. An overview and trends within the weekly health profile may help identify unusual phenomenon that require continuous monitoring and further attention. 10 complementary reports are offered and each additional report will cost $1.85.
- EMERGENCY SOS AND FALL ALERT – the watch responds automatically to falls and sends messages initiated by the SOS panic button, with location generated instantly. Messages can be sent to designated on-line receivers and specified phones via SMS and call message. Public emergency numbers (999 or 911) cannot be used for alerts. SMS cost $1.40 for 4 messages and phone message is $1.40. Some landlines may not receive SMS.
- AUDAR HEALTH REMOTE PLATFORM – connects the watch in real-time with unlimited data. Measurement schedules and watch settings can be alerted remotely from any internet connected device and viewed by multiple carers in any locations. Vital signs deviations beyond set safety thresholds can be automatically sent as an alert to designated receivers. The wearer only needs to wear the watch for peace of mind of all of your family members.
- STAY CONNECTED ANYWHERE - Audar E2 has a built-in SIM that connects directly to low-cost IoT networks in 20+ counties without roaming charges and phone, App or Bluetooth required. The connectivity is included for the first year followed by a $35 fee per annum afterwards. The battery works up to 10 days assuming one measurement an hour and remains in standby up to 30 days. The watch is light, slim and waterproof with magnetic straps for easy fitting.
No. 8
Yihou Fall Detection Smart Watch for Seniors Fall Alert Watch with GPS Track SOS Heart Rate Monitor Long Lasting Battery for Android iOS Black
- Fall Detection & SOS Assistance：Detects accidental falls and automatically contacts up to 3 emergency numbers in order until connected.
- Multi-Mode Accurate Positioning & Safe Zones：Supports GPS, AGPS, and LBS positioning for accurate indoor and outdoor tracking. Up to 3 safety zones can be set, with instant app alerts if the wearer leaves the designated area.
- Voice Chat, Call Answer & Speed Dial：Allows two-way voice messaging by holding the button to record and sending it to the app. Supports answering incoming calls and setting quick dial contacts for instant communication with family.
- 600mAh Large-Capacity Battery, Long Battery Life：Equipped with a 600mAh lithium battery and power-saving mode, the watch delivers longer use per charge, reducing charging frequency and adding daily convenience.
- Remote Management & Call Whitelist：Family members can remotely adjust settings, monitor battery status, and activate the whitelist to only allow calls from preset contacts, blocking unwanted numbers.
Your Guide to Choosing a Smartwatch That Detects AFib
Irregular heart rhythms, like Atrial Fibrillation (AFib), can be serious. A smartwatch that monitors your heart can offer peace of mind and early warnings. This guide helps you pick the right one.
Key Features to Look For
Not all smartwatches do the same heart checks. You need specific tools for AFib detection.
Accurate Heart Rate Monitoring
- Continuous Tracking: The watch should check your heart rate all day, not just when you ask it to.
- High Accuracy: Look for watches that use advanced optical sensors. This helps them catch fast or slow beats accurately.
Electrocardiogram (ECG) Capability
This is the most important feature for AFib. An ECG measures the heart’s electrical signals.
- On-Demand ECG: The watch must let you take a reading when you feel symptoms. You place your fingers on the watch casing for about 30 seconds.
- FDA Clearance/Approval: Check if the ECG function is cleared by health organizations like the FDA. This means the technology is reliable for checking AFib.
Irregular Rhythm Notifications (IRN)
This feature works in the background. It alerts you if your heart rate pattern suggests AFib, even when you are resting or sleeping.
Important Materials and Build Quality
The materials affect comfort and how long the watch lasts.
Watch Case and Display
- Durable Metals: Aluminum or stainless steel cases offer good protection against bumps.
- Strong Glass: Sapphire crystal or Gorilla Glass protects the screen from scratches. A clear screen makes reading your heart data easy.
Comfortable Straps
Since the watch needs to be worn constantly for good data, comfort matters.
- Skin-Friendly Materials: Silicone or fluoroelastomer straps are great for workouts and daily wear. They resist sweat well.
- Secure Fit: The strap must hold the back sensors firmly against your skin for the best signal.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality is about accuracy and how well the watch works with your phone.
Improving Factors (What Makes It Better)
- Long Battery Life: If the battery dies quickly, you miss readings. Look for watches that last at least a full day, preferably longer.
- Reliable App Ecosystem: The companion app must clearly show your heart data trends. Good charts help you and your doctor understand the results.
- Water Resistance: High water resistance (like 5 ATM) means you can wear it while swimming, ensuring continuous monitoring.
Reducing Factors (What Makes It Worse)
- Poor Sensor Contact: If the watch is too bulky or the strap is stiff, it might shift on your wrist, leading to inaccurate readings.
- Confusing Software: If the alerts are hard to understand or the ECG process is complicated, people often stop using the feature.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about when and how you will use the watch.
Daily Wear and Comfort
A good AFib smartwatch should blend into your life. It should be light enough to wear while sleeping. If it feels heavy or bulky, you will take it off.
Actionable Data
The watch should do more than just record data. It should help you act.
- Symptom Logging: Can you easily tag when you felt dizzy or short of breath alongside the ECG reading? This helps doctors connect feelings to heart activity.
- Sharing Data: The watch must allow you to easily export or share PDF reports of your heart history with your healthcare provider.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About AFib Smartwatches
Q: Can a smartwatch diagnose AFib?
A: No. Smartwatches can only detect signs of irregular heart rhythms that might be AFib. Only a doctor can give a formal diagnosis after reviewing the data.
Q: How often should I take an ECG reading?
A: If you feel symptoms, take a reading right away. For general checks, use the on-demand feature daily, or rely on the automatic background monitoring.
Q: Are these watches as good as a doctor’s monitor?
A: They are very good for screening and tracking, but a clinical-grade monitor provides more detailed readings. The watch is a great first step.
Q: What is the difference between heart rate monitoring and ECG?
A: Heart rate monitoring tracks beats per minute. ECG measures the electrical activity that causes the beats, which is necessary to confirm AFib.
Q: Do I need a smartphone to use the AFib features?
A: Yes. You need a smartphone to set up the watch, view detailed reports, and share data with your doctor.
Q: Will the watch wake me up if it detects an issue at night?
A: Many models have a ‘Sleep Mode’ that silences non-critical alerts, but high-priority AFib alerts can often be set to override this.
Q: How long does the battery last on watches with constant heart monitoring?
A: Battery life varies widely. Models focusing heavily on health often last 1 to 4 days before needing a charge.
Q: What does ‘FDA Cleared’ mean for an ECG watch?
A: It means the US Food and Drug Administration reviewed the technology and found it safe and effective for its stated purpose: detecting AFib signals.
Q: Can the watch detect other heart problems besides AFib?
A: Some watches can detect very slow heart rates (bradycardia) or very fast rates (tachycardia), but their primary cleared feature is usually AFib detection.
Q: What should I do if my watch constantly alerts me to an irregular rhythm?
A: Do not panic. Take several readings to confirm. Then, immediately schedule an appointment with your doctor and bring the watch data with you.