Smartwatch technology commonly uses photoplethysmography (PPG) sensors to measure heart rate. However, how do skin tone, movement, or device placement affect the data? What should be considered to achieve results close to clinical references with this method? Are alternatives to PPG worth considering, or is it just marketing hype?
Do smartwatches really measure heart rate accurately?
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PPG sensors measuring heart rate in fitness-focused watches like Fitbit or Nike Fuelband tend to align with statistical trends but can have an average error margin of around 5-10% when compared to clinical ECGs. Minor deviations can occur due to skin tone and movement, especially if the algorithm isn’t calibrated, similar to what’s seen in wristwatch users.
I also use a smartwatch (Amazfit Bip U Pro), and I've experienced irregularities in heart rate measurements depending on my skin tone. The readings were particularly off when I had darker skin or when my arm was moving. Tightening the wristband to improve sensor contact helped a bit, but while it doesn’t match clinical results, it’s good enough to track general trends. We’re stuck with PPG sensors for now since there’s nothing else available.