Which Garmin Heart Rate Monitor (HRM) is Right For You?
Garmin’s HRM range moves the sensor closer to the heart for pro-level accuracy that smartwatches just can't rival. If you are looking for an accurate heart rate tracker, find your perfect match below!
Garmin HRM 200 Heart Rate Monitor: Best for cycling & general fitness
- Up to 1 year battery life: User-replaceable coin cell battery.
- Dual-Band Connectivity: Sync to your Edge and Zwift simultaneously (Supports up to 2 concurrent Bluetooth connections & unlimited ANT+).
- High-comfort adjustable strap: Fits chest sizes 25" to 42" (expandable with optional strap).
- Sweat & Rain Ready: 1 ATM water rating (splash/sweat resistant; not for swimming).
Garmin HRM 600 Heart Rate Monitor: Best for elite, group or multi-sports
- USB-C Rechargeable: Up to 2 months of battery life on a single charge.
- Device-Free Training: Records heart rate, calories, speed, and distance for team sports (Footy, Soccer, Martial Arts) without a watch.
- Pro Running Dynamics: Tracks vertical oscillation, ground contact time, and stride length.
- Swim-Ready & Adjustable: 5 ATM water rating (waterproof heart rate monitor). Fits chest sizes 25" to 42".
- Ultimate Connectivity: Supports up to 3 concurrent Bluetooth connections & unlimited ANT+.
Garmin HRM-Fit Heart Rate Monitor: Best for high-intensity female training
- Secure Clip-on Design: Attaches directly to the bottom band of medium and high-support sports bras. (Note: Not recommended for longline, front-zip, or light-support bras).
- Pro Running Dynamics: Captures the same elite data as the HRM 600 to help improve your form.
- Up to 1 year battery life: User-replaceable coin cell battery.
- Sweat-Proof Performance: 3 ATM water rating (safe for heavy sweating and washing, not designed for swimming).
At a Glance: Compare the Range
| Feature | Garmin HRM 200 | Garmin HRM 600 | Garmin HRM-Fit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Cycling / General Fitness | Elite Multi-sport / Team Sports | High-Intensity Female Training |
| Battery Type/Life | Coin Cell / Up to 1 Year | USB-C / Up to 2 Months | Coin Cell / Up to 1 Year |
| Running Dynamics | No | Yes | Yes |
| Device-Free Training | No | Yes (Full Activity Record) | No |
| Concurrent Bluetooth | Up to 2 devices | Up to 3 devices | Up to 3 devices |
| Water Rating | 1 ATM (Sweat/Splash) | 5 ATM (Swim-ready) | 3 ATM (Sweat-proof) |
| Sizing/Fit | 25" - 42" Chest | 25" - 42" Chest | Medium/High-Support Bras |
| Washable Strap | Yes | Yes (Detachable Module) | Yes (Clip-on Design) |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the battery last on a Garmin heart rate monitor?
How long does the battery last on a Garmin heart rate monitor?
The battery on the HRM 200 and HRM Fit models, which use coin cell batteries, will last up to 1 year. The battery on the HRM 600, USB-C rechargeable, will last up to 2 months.
Does the Garmin HRM 600 use a coin battery?
Does the Garmin HRM 600 use a coin battery?
No, the new Garmin HRM 600 features a USB-rechargeable battery that lasts up to 2 months on a single charge.
How do I know if my Garmin HRM 200 or 600 is turned on?
How do I know if my Garmin HRM 200 or 600 is turned on?
Both the HRM 200 and HRM 600 feature a new LED status light that flashes to indicate the monitor is awake, pairing, or has a low battery.
Does a Garmin heart rate monitor work with Zwift, Wahoo, Strava, or my iPhone?
Does a Garmin heart rate monitor work with Zwift, Wahoo, Strava, or my iPhone?
Yes. Dual Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity means all Garmin heart rate monitors will pair easily with non-Garmin head units, apps, smartphones, and smart trainers.
All of our Garmin heart rate monitors are Zwift and Strava compatible.
Can I swim with my Garmin HRM?
Can I swim with my Garmin HRM?
The HRM 600 is designed for swimming with a water rating of 5 ATM. The HRM 200 is not designed for swimming, with a 1 ATM rating, and can only tolerate light splashes or sweat. The HRM-Fit is rated 3 ATM, making it sweat-proof for your most intense sessions!
Which Garmin heart rate monitor is best for cycling?
Which Garmin heart rate monitor is best for cycling?
The HRM 200 is a great option if you are focusing solely on indoor/outdoor cycling.
If you are integrating sports such as swimming, then the HRM 600 is more suitable as it's swim-ready rather than just splash-proof.
For women who want the standard features of a heart rate monitor without a tight band around their ribs, the HRM-Fit is recommended.
Why do I need a chest strap if I have a Garmin smartwatch?
Why do I need a chest strap if I have a Garmin smartwatch?
While optical wrist sensors are fantastic for all-day tracking and steady-state cardio, a chest strap measures the electrical activity of your heart directly. This means zero lag during high-intensity interval training (HIIT), heavy weightlifting, or sudden sprints.
Do I need a Garmin watch to use these monitors?
Do I need a Garmin watch to use these monitors?
Not necessarily! All of these monitors feature Bluetooth connectivity, meaning they can pair directly with your smartphone, cycling computers, third-party apps like Strava and Zwift, and compatible gym equipment.
How do I clean my heart rate monitor?
How do I clean my heart rate monitor?
To prolong the life of your strap, we recommend rinsing it under warm water after every use. For the HRM 200 and 600, you should machine wash the strap (with the sensor module removed) after every 7 uses. The HRM-Fit should be hand-washed regularly.
Is the HRM-Fit only for women?
Is the HRM-Fit only for women?
The HRM-Fit clips onto medium-to-high support sports bras, making it purpose-built for women. This can make it more comfortable as it requires no tight band around the ribs.
