Polar FT1

The Polar FT1 gets good reviews among budget heart rate monitors that cost less than $100. It may lack some features found on pricier heart rate monitors, such as calorie tracking, fitness tests or customized training plans, but users say the Polar FT1 is a good value. It accurately displays average and maximum heart rates, in addition to manual target zones and a backlit display. A coded chest strap is another plus, because it prevents interference from other users or fitness equipment. Reviewers say the Polar FT1 is easy to use and many users like that it doesn't include a lot of unnecessary bells and whistles. However, the watch has one button for navigation, so the button must be pressed repeatedly to navigate the menu. Unlike some other Polar heart rate monitors, including the top-rated Polar FT60 (*Est. $180), the battery on the Polar FT1 is not user-replaceable. As a result, the heart rate monitor must be sent to an authorized service center for a battery replacement.

The best review of the Polar FT1 comes from Triathlon Plus magazine, which conducts a group test of budget heart rate monitors that also rates and compares the units. Shorter reviews at ThatsFit.com and the St. Petersburg Times are also helpful, but they're not as detailed. Amazon.com has a handful of user opinions.