Best wearable without a screen
People ask me which strap or screenless band to buy. When patients over 40 ask, I narrow it to the only two with an FDA cleared heart feature in the US.
From Dr. Kenny Civello, cardiologist and electrophysiologist
Reviewed October 2026. Prices as of that date.
All seven bands use the same basic sensors. The real difference is what the software promises and whether anyone has checked it. A recovery score can help you plan a workout. An FDA cleared rhythm alert can start a workup for AFib.
My picks
FDA cleared means the FDA reviewed that feature for that use. Wellness means it was not reviewed. How I choose
Fitbit Air
Checks for irregular rhythms in the background while you rest or sleep. No action needed.
- FDA clearedIrregular rhythm alerts for possible AFib
- WellnessSleep stages, blood oxygen during sleep, heart rate variability
Skip it if you want to record an ECG. It does not have one.
store.google.comWHOOP MG
Records a single lead ECG when you feel palpitations. Its passive AFib alerts are not available in the US, so you have to remember to record.
- FDA clearedSingle lead ECG with AFib detection
- WellnessBlood Pressure Insights
- WellnessRecovery, strain, and sleep scores
Skip it if you will not remember to take a recording when you feel symptoms.
whoop.comGarmin CIRQA, Polar Loop, and others
Solid for fitness, sleep, and recovery. None has an FDA cleared heart feature.
- Garmin CIRQA and Polar Loop focus on training and recovery
- Amazfit Helio Strap is the low cost option
- Speediance estimates body temperature trends
- WellnessHume Band 2.0 blood pressure trends
Skip it if you want a heart signal your doctor can act on.
Compare
| Band | Price | Subscription | FDA cleared heart feature in the US | Battery |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fitbit Air | $99.99 | None needed | Passive irregular rhythm alerts | up to 7 days |
| WHOOP MG | $359 a year | Required | On demand ECG. Passive alerts not in US | 14+ days |
| Amazfit Helio Strap | $99.99 | None | None | up to 10 days |
| Speediance Strap | $129 to $159 | None | None | up to 14 days |
| Garmin CIRQA | $199.99 | None | None | up to 10 days |
| Polar Loop | $199.99 | None | None | up to 8 days |
| Hume Band 2.0 | $249 | Optional | None. Blood pressure trend is wellness only | up to 14 days |
Know before you buy
After 40, value the medical features
AFib gets more common with age and can raise stroke risk up to five times. That is why I weigh an FDA cleared rhythm feature over recovery scores for patients over 40.
Blood pressure from a band is not ready
WHOOP and Hume show numbers or trends that look like blood pressure. Neither is FDA cleared. The 2025 national blood pressure guideline found no benefit from cuffless devices for diagnosing or managing high blood pressure. Use a validated cuff.
A false all clear is the risk
A band that shows a normal looking blood pressure can keep someone from seeing a doctor when they should.
An alert is worth acting on
An FDA cleared rhythm alert is reason enough to ask us about a full workup for AFib. See My watch says I have AFib.
Common questions
Is WHOOP MG worth it for the ECG?
Only if you will actually take a recording when you feel symptoms. In the US it will not alert you on its own.
Which band is best for training?
Garmin CIRQA and Polar Loop focus on training load and recovery. Any of the fitness bands is fine for that.
Should I get a watch instead?
A watch adds an ECG you can see and a screen for alerts. See the smartwatch guide.
More on wearables
My watch says I have AFibMy watch ECG says inconclusiveHow I choose the wearables I recommendFind the right wearableBest smartwatch for catching AFibBest smart ring for sleepBest home blood pressure monitorBest personal ECG without a smartwatchBest wearable for an older parentBest wearable for athletesMore on atrial fibrillation
Lowering your AFib riskHow AFib is treatedGetting ready for your ablationThis guide is general education for my patients. A wearable is not a diagnosis. Talk with your doctor about what your data means for you.
No affiliate links. I have not received payment from any company for these recommendations. See how I choose.
Sources: Jones DW, et al. 2025 AHA/ACC/Multisociety Guideline for the Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Management of High Blood Pressure in Adults. FDA 510(k) K212372 (Fitbit irregular rhythm notifications). WHOOP MG ECG clearance per WHOOP. Maker specifications as of October 2026.