Polar A4 Pulse Heart Rate Monitor Watch

Suggested Retail Price: $39.95

Rating: 6/10

Top Features

• Checks pulse rate with the touch of a button
• Exercise file record
• Personalized target heart rate zone indicator
• Personalized calorie burn counter

Product Specs

• Displays heart rate, average heart rate, and exercise time
• Full clock and stopwatch function with calendar function
• Includes zippered black nylon carrying case
• 1 year average battery life
• 2 year limited warranty

Disadvantages

• Does not include chest strap transmitter belt
• Few extra features

Review

One of the most basic and least expensive Polar heart rate monitors is the Polar A4.  While most Polar models come loaded with extras, and may seem like a whole computer more than a heart rate monitor, the A4 is just a simple device to measure your pulse rate.  Though be aware that the additional purchase of a chest strap transmitter can make this model operate more like a conventional heart rate monitor.

A lot of people will probably be quite satisfied with the A4, despite its lack of extra.  If all you care about is accurately measuring your heart rate, this monitor will do the job just fine.  Unlike most models of heart rate monitor, this one works by pushing down on a button with your finger instead of wearing a chest transmitter strap.  This is very easy to do, and after a short wait it will clearly display your reading.  In addition to giving your pulse reading, the Polar A4 will also operate as a watch and stopwatch.  Also, it's one of the few monitors that comes with its own carrying case, which is great for travel.

In order to use the more advanced features of the A4, you'll need to buy a Polar transmitter belt, which is unfortunately not included.  Should you choose to buy one, you'll have to spend another $50 or so for it.  However, if you already own a transmitter from another Polar heart rate monitor, that will work as well.  With the transmitter belt, the A4 can operate more like a conventional heart rate monitor, and will give a continuous pulse reading.  It will also allow you to use the personalized heart rate zone indicator feature, as well as calculate your calorie expenditure.

If you decide to buy both the A4 heart rate monitor and the transmitter belt, this model will no longer seem like a great bargain, and it may be a better value to look at another model.  But if you don't need the transmitter, and don't plan on using it for intensive exercise or training, then the A4 is a much better value.  Additionally, some people may just prefer measuring their heart rate with the push of a button over using a chest strap, so they will find this model appealing.