Omron 7 Series BP652

Wrist-mounted blood pressure monitors don't have a reputation for performing well, but the Omron 7 Series BP652 is the highest-ranked among those tested in a recent independent test. Most users praise it as a comfortable, portable heart rate monitor that gives fast readings; however, others point out that learning to position the BP652 properly and master its many features requires a long learning curve. Small lights on the monitor turn blue once you've got it in the proper position, or orange if you haven't positioned it correctly; a buzzer can also be set to signal proper positioning.

The BP652 has a slightly higher percentage of accuracy complaints than comparable upper-arm monitors, perhaps because a wrist monitor requires an extra step to position it correctly over your heart. One user reports that Omron customer service said this model was not appropriate for those with diabetes or high blood pressure. (Calls to the company to verify this went unanswered.) Features on this model include 200-reading storage (100 per each of two user accounts), irregular heartbeat detection and advanced averaging. The wrist-size ComFit cuff can accommodate wrists from 5-1/4 inches to 8-1/2 inches (13 cm to 21 cm) in circumference.

ConsumerReports.org is the best source of expert feedback about the Omron BP652. Amazon.com offers about 180 user reviews, and Walmart.com and Drugstore.com offer a smaller sampling of diverging user perspectives.