Introduction
Optical heart rate monitoring using photoplethysmography (PPG) technology has become a cornerstone in modern research. This non-invasive method measures blood volume changes in the skin to track heart rate and heart rate variability (HRV). PPG-based wearables are valued for their comfort, ease of use, and ability to collect continuous data, making them ideal for long-term and ambulatory studies.
This article reviews the top PPG wearables for research in 2025, focusing on their accuracy, usability, and compatibility with academic workflows.
How Optical Heart Rate Monitoring (PPG) Works
The Science Behind PPG
PPG sensors use light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and photodetectors to measure blood flow changes under the skin. Each heartbeat causes a pulse wave that alters blood volume, which the device detects to calculate heart rate and HRV.
Strengths of PPG in Research
PPG wearables offer significant advantages in research:
- They are lightweight, discreet, and easy to wear, reducing participant burden.
- They are cost-effective compared to ECG-based devices, allowing scalability for large studies.
- Their non-invasiveness makes them suitable for a wide range of applications, including sleep, physical activity, and stress studies.
Limitations of PPG
However, PPG technology has some challenges:
- It is prone to motion artifacts, especially during vigorous activities.
- Accuracy may vary under certain conditions, such as low lighting or diverse skin tones.
- Its precision may not match ECG-based methods in all scenarios.
Key Features to Look for in PPG Wearables for Research
- Accuracy and Signal Quality
Devices should minimize motion artifacts and deliver consistent readings in varied conditions, including physical activity and rest. - Raw Data Access
Access to raw, unprocessed data is critical for researchers needing detailed insights and customized analysis. - Participant Comfort and Design
Lightweight and comfortable wearables ensure participants can adhere to protocols in long-term studies. - Integration and Compatibility
Wearables with APIs and SDKs simplify data integration into research workflows, making them more adaptable. - Battery Life
Long battery life allows continuous monitoring without frequent recharging, especially important in multi-day studies.
Top Optical Heart Rate Wearables for Research in 2025
Fibion Helix
The Fibion Helix is a leading choice for research due to its patented optical sensor technology. It provides precise heart rate and HRV measurements and grants researchers access to raw data for advanced analysis. The device’s lightweight and comfortable design ensures participant compliance, while its integration capabilities through APIs and SDKs make it suitable for diverse research workflows.
Polar Verity Sense
Polar Verity Sense offers reliable PPG-based heart rate monitoring with an adjustable arm strap, making it a participant-friendly option. It is ideal for moderate-intensity activities and provides data that meets the needs of exercise physiology and clinical studies.
Garmin Venu 2 Plus
This multi-functional wearable combines optical heart rate monitoring with additional fitness and health tracking features. Its extended battery life and user-friendly design make it suitable for studies requiring continuous participant engagement.
Empatica E4
Empatica E4 is a research-grade wearable that includes PPG-based heart rate monitoring along with other metrics such as skin conductance and temperature. It is widely used in clinical and behavioral studies, offering a comprehensive dataset for researchers.
Whoop Strap 4.0
The Whoop Strap 4.0 tracks HRV and heart rate with a focus on recovery and readiness metrics. While it is user-friendly and comfortable, its consumer-oriented design and limited raw data access may reduce its utility for certain research applications.
Challenges of Using PPG Wearables in Research
Motion Artifacts: PPG devices can encounter signal distortions during movement. Advanced filtering algorithms and proper device placement are essential to address these challenges.
Skin Tone Variability: Skin tone can affect PPG accuracy due to variations in light absorption and reflection. Researchers should prioritize devices validated for diverse populations to ensure inclusivity.
Data Integration: Compatibility with research-specific software can be a barrier. Selecting devices with open APIs and robust technical support can streamline data workflows.
Conclusion
PPG-based wearables are transforming research by offering non-invasive, cost-effective, and participant-friendly options for heart rate monitoring. Devices like Fibion Helix excel in providing accurate data, raw data access, and seamless integration capabilities, making them ideal for academic research.
Call to Action
📅 If you want to learn more about Fibion Helix, do not hesitate to book a video call with our expert Dr. Miriam Cabrita, or ask for a quote.
Frequently asked questions:
How does photoplethysmography (PPG) measure heart rate? +
PPG uses light-emitting diodes and photodetectors to track changes in blood volume under the skin, corresponding to each heartbeat, to measure heart rate and HRV.
What are the advantages of PPG wearables for research? +
PPG wearables are lightweight, non-invasive, and cost-effective, making them ideal for long-term studies. They reduce participant burden and are scalable for large research projects.
What are the challenges of using PPG wearables in research? +
Motion artifacts and skin tone variability can affect accuracy. Devices with advanced filtering algorithms and validation for diverse populations address these issues.
Which PPG wearable offers the best integration for research workflows? +
The Fibion Helix provides advanced integration options through APIs and SDKs, making it highly adaptable for diverse research workflows.
What makes Fibion Helix a top choice for research in 2025? +
Fibion Helix offers precise heart rate and HRV measurements, access to raw data, and a comfortable design, making it ideal for long-term and ambulatory studies.
Can PPG wearables replace ECG-based devices in research? +
PPG wearables are excellent for non-invasive, long-term studies. However, ECG-based devices remain superior for clinical-grade accuracy and motion-intensive scenarios.
Disclaimer
The brand names and product names mentioned in this article, including Polar Verity Sense, Garmin Venu 2 Plus, Empatica E4, and Whoop Strap 4.0, along with their associated device models and software platforms, are trademarks of their respective owners. Our use of these names does not imply ownership, endorsement, or affiliation with these brands. This article is intended solely for informational purposes and provides an overview of these devices based on publicly available information.
We make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, regarding the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability of the information provided herein about these non-Fibion products. Specifications and features of these products are subject to change and may vary depending on product updates or other factors. For the most accurate and up-to-date specifications, please refer to the respective official websites of these brands. Any reliance you place on the information in this article is strictly at your own risk.
All trademarks and registered trademarks mentioned herein belong to their respective owners.