Garmin · Heart rate strap & armband
Garmin HRM 600
Best Garmin strap if you use the new metrics; otherwise Polar H10 is the value play.
Our scores
Device scale, not comparable with watch scores: sensor accuracy (HR/HRV/sleep) 30%, battery 15%, recovery & sleep insights 25%, comfort/build 15%, value 15% (subscription cost counts against value). How we score
| Overall | 7.2 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Sensor accuracy (HR/HRV/sleep) | 9 |
| Battery | 8.5 |
| Recovery & sleep insights | 5 |
| Comfort / build | 7.5 |
| Value (incl. subscription) | 6 |
Device scale: sensor accuracy 9.0, battery 8.5, recovery & sleep insights 5.0, comfort/build 7.5, value 6.0. Excellent HR reference; pricey versus Polar H10.
Meta-review
Consensus strengths
- Accurate chest HR with dual protocol broadcast
- On-strap storage and new running economy hooks
- Secure channel options for newer Garmins
Consensus weaknesses
- Expensive for a strap
- Some new metrics are watch-locked upsells
- Overkill if you only need basic HR
Who it's for
Garmin athletes chasing optical-HR upgrades for intervals and economy metrics.
Verdict
Best Garmin strap if you use the new metrics; otherwise Polar H10 is the value play.
Key specs
| Type | Heart rate strap & armband |
|---|---|
| Sensors | — |
| Battery (claimed) | Unlocks Running Economy / Step Speed Loss on FR970 |
| Subscription | No subscription |
| GPS | None |
| Weight | — |
| Water rating | — |
| Works with | — |
| Price | From $169.99 |
What outside reviewers say: Running dynamics and watch-free recording; HRV/recording accuracy questioned vs H10.
Outside reviews we verified
- the5krunner — Garmin HRM 600 review - Polar H10 still wins on HRV
- Wareable — Garmin HRM 600 review: An unbeatable option for data obsessives | Wareable
- Cyclingnews — Garmin HRM 600 review: A powerhouse of a heart rate monitor, but perhaps lost on just cyclists | Cyclingnews
Garmin HRM 600 comparisons
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Frequently asked
What is our Garmin HRM 600 score?
Garmin HRM 600 scores 7.2/10 overall on our device scale (sensor accuracy 9, battery 8.5, recovery & sleep insights 5, comfort / build 7.5, value 6). Device scale: sensor accuracy 9.0, battery 8.5, recovery & sleep insights 5.0, comfort/build 7.5, value 6.0. Excellent HR reference; pricey versus Polar H10.
How much does Garmin HRM 600 cost?
List price starts around $169.99 USD. Confirm on the maker or retailer page.
Who is Garmin HRM 600 for?
Garmin athletes chasing optical-HR upgrades for intervals and economy metrics.
What are alternatives to Garmin HRM 600?
Close alternatives on this site include Polar H10, COROS Heart Rate Monitor, Polar Verity Sense, Garmin Index Sleep Monitor, Garmin Vivosmart 5.