Yes, some smartwatches measure blood pressure, but not all of them

A growing number of smartwatches include blood pressure sensors, though the technology is still newer than heart rate or step tracking. Samsung, Apple, and several other manufacturers now offer models with built-in blood pressure measurement. The catch: these readings are not a replacement for a medical blood pressure cuff, and the accuracy varies depending on the watch model and how you use it.

Blood pressure measurement on a smartwatch works through sensors that detect how blood moves through your wrist. The watch records the force of blood pushing against artery walls and converts that into a systolic and diastolic reading. Some watches require you to hold still for 30 to 60 seconds while the sensor takes the measurement; others measure passively in the background during your normal day.

The main limitation is that smartwatch readings tend to be less precise than a traditional arm cuff, especially if you move during measurement or if the watch band is too loose. For that reason, doctors typically do not use smartwatch readings to diagnose high blood pressure or adjust medication. They are most useful for spotting trends over time or catching unusual spikes that might warrant a check with a proper cuff.

Key Takeaways

  • Samsung Galaxy Watch models, Apple Watch Series 9 and later, and certain Garmin and Fitbit watches include blood pressure sensors, though not every model in each brand's lineup has this feature.
  • Smartwatch blood pressure readings are less accurate than traditional arm cuffs and should not be used to diagnose or treat high blood pressure without confirmation from a medical device.
  • You must calibrate most blood pressure watches against a standard cuff at least once before the watch can measure accurately on its own.
  • Loose watch bands, movement during measurement, and skin tone can all affect the accuracy of a smartwatch blood pressure reading.

Which smartwatch brands offer blood pressure measurement

Samsung Galaxy Watch models with blood pressure capability include the Galaxy Watch 6, Galaxy Watch 6 Classic, Galaxy Watch 7, and Galaxy Watch Ultra. Samsung's app is called Samsung Health, and it stores your readings in a timeline you can review over weeks or months. The watch measures blood pressure on demand when you open the app and hold still.

Apple Watch Series 9 and the Apple Watch Ultra 2 added blood pressure measurement in late 2024. The feature is called Blood Pressure app and works similarly to Samsung's — you start a measurement and hold your arm still for about 30 seconds. Older Apple Watch models do not have this sensor.

Garmin watches with blood pressure include the Epix Gen 2, Fenix 7X, Fenix 8, and several Venu models. Garmin's blood pressure feature is called Pulse Ox and Blood Pressure, and it syncs to the Garmin Connect app. Fitbit offers blood pressure measurement on the Sense 2 and Charge 6 models, which sync to the Fitbit app.

Other brands like Withings and Omron make smartwatches or wristbands specifically designed for blood pressure tracking, though these are less common in mainstream retail. Always check the product specifications before buying, because even within a brand's lineup, not every watch model includes the sensor.

How to calibrate a smartwatch blood pressure sensor

Most smartwatches require calibration before they can measure blood pressure accurately. Calibration means taking a reading on your watch and comparing it to a reading from a standard medical blood pressure cuff at the same time. The watch then adjusts its algorithm based on the difference.

To calibrate, you will need access to a manual or automatic arm cuff — the kind you might use at home or find at a pharmacy. Take your blood pressure with the cuff on one arm while wearing the smartwatch on the other wrist. Record both numbers. Then open your smartwatch's blood pressure app and enter the cuff reading manually. The watch stores this data point and uses it to fine-tune future readings.

Calibration is most accurate when your blood pressure is stable and you are sitting down. Avoid calibrating right after exercise, caffeine, or stress. Some watches ask you to calibrate every few weeks or months, while others do it once and keep the calibration indefinitely. Check your watch's manual or app settings to see how often recalibration is recommended.

Factors that affect smartwatch blood pressure accuracy

A loose watch band is one of the biggest reasons for inaccurate readings. The sensors need firm contact with your skin to detect blood flow properly. If you can slide your finger under the band, it is too loose. Tighten it so the watch sits snugly but not so tight that it cuts off circulation or causes discomfort.

Movement during measurement throws off the reading. Most watches ask you to sit still and keep your arm relaxed at heart level while the sensor works. If you move, talk, or shift your arm, the watch may abort the measurement or return a reading that is not reliable. Set aside 30 to 60 seconds in a quiet moment to take the measurement.

Skin tone and tattoos can also affect sensor performance. Darker skin tones sometimes produce less reliable readings because the optical sensors have a harder time detecting blood flow through darker pigment. Tattoos, especially on the wrist where the watch sits, can block the sensor's light. If you have either of these factors, your readings may be less consistent, and calibration becomes even more important.

Temperature matters too. Cold hands reduce blood flow to the wrist, which can make readings less accurate. Warm your wrists before measuring, and avoid taking readings when ready after being outside in cold weather.

How smartwatch blood pressure readings compare to medical cuffs

Clinical studies show that smartwatch blood pressure sensors are generally accurate within 5 to 10 millimeters of mercury (mmHg) when conditions are ideal. A medical arm cuff is typically accurate within 3 mmHg. That difference sounds small, but it matters when a doctor is deciding whether to start or adjust blood pressure medication.

The FDA does not regulate smartwatch blood pressure sensors the way it does medical devices, so there is no single standard for accuracy across brands. Samsung, Apple, and Garmin have published research showing their sensors perform reasonably well, but real-world accuracy depends heavily on how you use the watch. A perfectly calibrated watch in the hands of someone who holds still and keeps the band tight will be more accurate than the same watch used carelessly.

For this reason, smartwatch blood pressure readings are best used as a screening tool or a way to track trends, not as a diagnostic tool. If your smartwatch shows a high reading, follow up with a manual cuff or visit your doctor. If you are on blood pressure medication, your doctor will want to see readings from a standard cuff, not just your watch.

When to use a smartwatch blood pressure feature and when to use a regular cuff

Use your smartwatch blood pressure sensor when you want to check your pressure throughout the day and spot patterns. If you notice your pressure spikes at certain times or after certain activities, that information is useful to share with your doctor. The convenience of having a sensor on your wrist means you are more likely to check regularly, which can help you notice changes.

Use a standard arm cuff when your doctor asks you to monitor your blood pressure, when you are starting or changing blood pressure medication, or when you want a reading you can trust completely. Arm cuffs are still the gold standard, and they are inexpensive — you can buy a good one for $30 to $60. Many pharmacies also offer free blood pressure checks if you do not want to buy your own.

If you have high blood pressure or a heart condition, talk to your doctor about whether a smartwatch sensor is appropriate for your situation. Some doctors find the trend data useful; others prefer you stick to a standard cuff. Your doctor knows your health history and can advise whether the smartwatch reading is a helpful addition to your routine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to recalibrate my smartwatch blood pressure sensor?

Most manufacturers recommend recalibrating every few weeks or months, though some watches only need calibration once. Check your watch's app or manual for the specific schedule. If you notice your readings seem off or your watch prompts you to recalibrate, do it against a standard cuff to keep the sensor accurate.

Can I use my smartwatch blood pressure reading to diagnose high blood pressure?

No. Smartwatch readings are not precise enough for diagnosis. If your watch shows consistently high readings, see a doctor and bring a reading from a standard arm cuff. Your doctor will use the cuff reading to make any decisions about your health or medication.

What if my smartwatch blood pressure reading is very different from my arm cuff reading?

Check that your watch band is tight, you were sitting still during the measurement, and you calibrated recently. If the readings still do not match, recalibrate against the arm cuff. If the difference persists after recalibration, the watch sensor may not be reliable for you, and you should rely on the arm cuff instead.

Does skin tone affect smartwatch blood pressure accuracy?

Yes. Darker skin tones can reduce the accuracy of optical sensors because the light has a harder time detecting blood flow. If you have darker skin, calibration is especially important, and you may want to rely more on a standard cuff for critical readings.

Can I use my smartwatch blood pressure reading to adjust my medication?

No. Never adjust blood pressure medication based on a smartwatch reading alone. Always consult your doctor, and bring readings from a standard arm cuff. Your doctor needs reliable data to make safe changes to your medication.