Which Device Is Most Suitable for Measuring Heart Rate Variability in the Field? A Comparative Evaluation of Two...

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Environmental Health
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Heart rate variability (HRV) monitoring is crucial for assessing physiological responses in occupational and environmental health research.
• Selecting appropriate HRV monitors impacts data accuracy and research feasibility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the Polar H10 and Bittium Faros™ HRV monitors.
• To evaluate their suitability for occupational and environmental health research based on data collection, storage, transfer, resource needs, and limitations.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature review was performed.
• In-depth device testing was conducted.
• Expert interviews were utilized to assess performance and usability.

Main Results:

• Polar H10 offers affordability and offline RR interval recording (up to 20 hours), requiring a smartwatch/app for extended storage.
• Bittium Faros™ is a certified ECG monitor recording full waveforms, supporting long measurements and automatic data transfer.
• Both devices use chest straps; proper placement is vital for data quality. Patch electrodes enhance stability but may cause skin irritation.

Conclusions:

• The study provides a detailed comparison of Polar H10 and Bittium Faros™.
• Key differences are highlighted to guide the selection of HRV monitors for epidemiological studies in occupational and environmental health.