All articles tagged with #heart rate accuracy
Apple’s new Series 12 and Ultra 4 feature a redesigned optical heart rate sensor that closes the accuracy gap with Garmin. Independent testing shows the new sensor is significantly better than previous Apple models but still trails chest straps. The update also introduces a new Readiness score and more frequent health data sampling.
DC Rainmaker’s in-depth Cirqa review tests both wrist and bicep placements against Whoop 5.0, Fitbit Air, Amazfit Helio and Polar Loop across cycling, running, strength and sleep. The verdict is that heart-rate accuracy is generally solid but can falter in certain cold outdoor intervals; automatic workout detection has improved but Garmin still lags behind competitors in some scenarios. Sleep and daily activity metrics are broadly comparable to rivals, with bicep placement delivering higher workout HR fidelity and wrist placement better for sleep. Overall Cirqa is competitive and capable, but there are gaps in HR continuity and auto-detection to address.