Garmin HRM 200 Review: Accurate and Comfortable Heart Rate Monitor Facing Market Competition

The Garmin HRM 200 is an entry-level chest strap heart rate monitor priced at £79.99 / $79.99 / €89.99. The device features a redesigned broadcasting pod equipped with a front button and an LED indicator that displays pairing status and battery level. Powered by a CR2032 coin cell battery with a claimed one-year battery life, the HRM 200 incorporates a tool built into the strap buckle prongs to open the battery compartment, addressing regulations in the US and Australia. It is offered in two strap sizes (XS-S and M-XL), weighs 63 g with the M-XL strap, and carries a 3 ATM water resistance rating.

In terms of functionality, the monitor measures the heart's electrical signals using two electrode sensors located on the rear of the strap. It supports heart rate variability (HRV) tracking and can broadcast this data to compatible devices. Connectivity options include 3 low-power Bluetooth (BLE) connections and unlimited ANT+ connections. Pairing is initiated by holding the front button until the LED flashes orange, allowing it to connect to bike computers and smartwatches.

Testing demonstrated that the HRM 200 tracks accurately across various cycling intensities, providing consistent readings during high-effort efforts where optical sensors often struggle. Despite its comfort and accuracy, the monitor faces strong competition in the entry-level market from alternatives such as the Wahoo Trackr HRM (£79.99, rechargeable), Polar H10 (£86.50), 4iiii Viiiiva 2 (£64.99), and Magene H613 (£49). A notable drawback of the HRM 200 is its non-rechargeable battery design.