Best smartwatch for catching AFib
The right watch depends mostly on your phone. Every pick here has an FDA cleared ECG or AFib alert. Here is what each one can and cannot do.
From Dr. Kenny Civello, cardiologist and electrophysiologist
Reviewed October 2026. Prices as of that date.
Apple Watch only works with iPhone. Pixel Watch and Galaxy Watch only work with Android, and Galaxy Watch heart features need a Samsung phone. Withings works with both.
My picks
FDA cleared means the FDA reviewed that feature for that use. Wellness means it was not reviewed. How I choose
Apple Watch Series 12
The most studied watch for AFib. The Apple Heart Study followed more than 400,000 people.
- FDA clearedECG app
- FDA clearedIrregular rhythm alerts
- FDA clearedAFib History, for people already diagnosed with AFib
Skip it if you have an Android phone, or a pacemaker or ICD. The ECG app is not designed for paced rhythms.
apple.comGoogle Pixel Watch 5
Strong AFib evidence from the Fitbit Heart Study, plus an alert if your pulse stops.
- FDA clearedECG app
- FDA clearedIrregular rhythm alerts
- FDA clearedLoss of Pulse Detection, which can call 911
- WellnessBlood pressure trends
Skip it if you have an iPhone.
store.google.comSamsung Galaxy Watch 9
A good choice if you already have a Samsung Galaxy phone.
- FDA clearedECG app
- FDA clearedIrregular rhythm alerts
- WellnessBlood pressure readings, which need cuff calibration
Skip it if your phone is not a Samsung Galaxy. The ECG and rhythm alerts will not work.
samsung.comWithings ScanWatch 2
Looks like a regular watch and goes about a month between charges.
- FDA clearedECG with AFib detection, according to Withings
- WellnessTemperature trends
Skip it if you want to see the ECG tracing on your wrist. It shows on your phone.
withings.comCompare
| Watch | Phone | FDA cleared heart features | Price | Subscription |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Watch Series 12 | iPhone | ECG, rhythm alerts, AFib History | about $399 | None |
| Apple Watch SE 3 | iPhone | Rhythm alerts only. No ECG | about $249 | None |
| Google Pixel Watch 5 | Android | ECG, rhythm alerts, Loss of Pulse Detection | $399 to $529 | Optional |
| Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 | Samsung Galaxy phone | ECG, rhythm alerts | $380 to $460 | None |
| Withings ScanWatch 2 | iPhone or Android | ECG with AFib detection | about $370 | Optional |
Know before you buy
Alerts are not a diagnosis
An alert means check, not panic. See My watch says I have AFib.
The cheaper Apple Watch has no ECG
Apple Watch SE 3 has rhythm alerts but cannot record an ECG to confirm them.
AFib History is for people already diagnosed
It tracks how much time you spend in AFib. Rhythm alerts turn off when it is on.
Blood pressure on a watch
Samsung and Google show blood pressure estimates that are not FDA cleared. Apple hypertension alerts are cleared for some models, and Apple says clearance for Series 12 is still in process in some regions.
Inconclusive readings happen
Extra beats, fast rates, and pacemakers can confuse the app. See My watch ECG says inconclusive.
Prefer a band without a screen?
Fitbit Air has the same kind of FDA cleared rhythm alerts in a $100 band. See Best wearable without a screen.
Common questions
Should I buy a watch just to check for AFib?
If you have symptoms like a racing or irregular heartbeat, or a higher risk of AFib, a watch can help catch episodes and record them. If you feel fine and have no risk factors, it is optional.
I already have AFib. Which watch should I get?
Any pick here works. Apple Watch adds AFib History, which tracks how much time you spend in AFib. Bring your recordings to your visits.
Does skin tone or a tattoo affect accuracy?
The ECG uses electrical signals and should not be affected by skin tone. The rhythm alerts use light, and wrist tattoos can block it. Large studies have not reported results by skin tone.
More on wearables
My watch says I have AFibMy watch ECG says inconclusiveHow I choose the wearables I recommendFind the right wearableBest smart ring for sleepBest home blood pressure monitorBest personal ECG without a smartwatchBest wearable for an older parentBest wearable for athletesBest wearable without a screenMore 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: Perez MV, et al. Large-scale assessment of a smartwatch to identify atrial fibrillation (Apple Heart Study). N Engl J Med. 2019. Lubitz SA, et al. Detection of atrial fibrillation in a large population using wearable devices: the Fitbit Heart Study. Circulation. 2022. FDA De Novo DEN180044 and DEN180042, 510(k) K213971, K200948, K212372, K242967, K201168, K230292. Maker specifications as of October 2026.