Scosche Rhythm 1.9 is one of the most popular heart rate sensors on the market. Today, we want to find out if it’s worth the money.
Heart rate monitors help us to maintain the right intensity of exercise for the best results. Some of the heart rate sensors’ applications include giving real-time heart rate zone information, among other metrics.
This is the Scosche Rhythm 1.9 Armband Heart Rate Monitor Review. We’ll base our discussion on these crucial subtopics:
- About the Scosche brand
- Pros of the Scosche Rhythm 1.9
- Cons of the Scosche Rhythm 1.9
- Buyers guide on heart rate sensors.
- Benefits of using the Scosche Rhythm 1.9 heart rate sensor
- What others are saying about the Scosche Rhythm 1.9
- 3 alternatives to the Scosche Rhythm 1.9
Let’s begin!
About the “Scosche” Brand
Scosche Industries were founded in 1980 by Roger and Scotia “Scosche” Alves. The company started in Southern California as a car audio consultant. Since then, they have grown their product list to include car accessories, chargers, audio equipment, and fitness devices such as the Scosche Rhythm 24.
Scosche Rhythm 1.9 Review
Understanding your training zone may help you burn the most fat. A heart rate monitor is a device that lets you do just that.
Special Features (Pros) of the Scosche Rhythm 1.9
1. Technology
There’s no decency in talking about a gadget’s aesthetics before touching on its performance. So let’s start with the tracker’s working principle. We’ll divide this section into the following two categories based on the tech used in the Scosche rhythm 1.9:
2. Tracking
Heart rate monitors come in two basic configurations based on how they collect heart rate data- electrode type and optical type. Each has its own pros and cons, which are discussed later in this manuscript. The Scosche Rhythm 1.9 uses dual-tone LEDs to shine light into your bloodstream.
Light can get distorted when traveling through a changing medium, such as pumping blood- there are changes in oxygen levels, transparency, thickness, and speed regarding your heart rhythm.
It is such changes in wavelength and intensity that are converted into heart rate in beats per minute. Optical heart rate tracking technology advantages include high accuracy, quick turnaround time, flexibility in the wearing position, and many more.
Notice that, minus size constraints, you can technically wear this device anywhere a blood vessel is within reach. This is a significant plus against the electrode types, which must be near the heart.
Super easy to understand, right? Well, there’s more. There are 3 LEDs on board the device- 2 red and 1 green. They both work concurrently for redundancy purposes. First off, this improves the chances of getting readings each time. Secondly, it positively impacts the gadget’s accuracy.
And third, it accommodates people with different skin tones for consistent readings. This is especially important as different wavelengths penetrate different skin complexions differently. Next up, let’s talk about how the device delivers the data.
3. Communication
The Scosche rhythm 1.9 is compatible with both ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity technologies. It’s compatible with almost all devices from smartphones, tablets, PCs, gym equipment, sports, and smartwatches. So you don’t need to worry about your primary gadget.
In fact, you don’t need a smartwatch to access the data. With your phone, download an app that can read heart rate signals from the monitor. It could be a free app like Map My Fitness. You can also pair it with both Bluetooth and ANT+ devices simultaneously. SIMILARLY, you can also pair your Bluetooth headphones and the tracker.
Connectivity is almost instant, and the readings flow in real-time. The information could be twisted and summarized in many ways, including simple numerics, infographics, suggestions, and more. So what kind of info do you receive? To begin with, it can’t track cadence and pace.
But, you get your beats per minute, heart rate zones, calories burned, time, etc. The tracker is fluid up to a 100ft radius. It works well with other apps, including Strava and Peloton Digital.
4. Comfort and Fit
One of the chief reasons, I assume, for opting for an armband scanner in place of a chest strap is comfortable. It’s no question that chest straps may get a little too intrusive. Especially when we are working out at high intensities and that extra breath may squeeze your chest. Plus, it can’t wobble either, lest you’ll get an inaccurate assessment.
The entire thing is housed in a “unibody” brick. It’s centrally located and has a 2.5D curve to allow it to sit better on your forearm. You can rock it on near the wrist or elbow or somewhere midway. It doesn’t matter, as long as you get a snuggly fit, not too tight to avoid messing with its accuracy.
Not much to worry about here as the piece comes with two small and large straps. This allows for a snugglier fit about your arm size. The straps are breathable and fully adjustable. They are perforated all the way to improve airflow. The buckle mechanism is a velcro strap.
It offers micro-adjustments for the same reasons. Long periods of usage or sweat and water exposure don’t seem to affect its rigidity. The strap hardly leaves any footprint on the skin and does not irritate whatsoever. In any case, you can always swap them for a better watch strap.
5. Construction and Design
The Scosche Rhythm 1.9 looks as modern as you should expect for its price. The hardware is simple and clean. You’ll only find the Scosche name written on one of the belts. A Schosce logo is inscribed on the front panel, you know, to remind you that you are using a premium product.
All joinery works are done to absolute perfection. The brick feels solid, and you may even wonder how they managed to place everything inside. Anyways, the LED light doesn’t leak, and the bulbs remain cool during operation- some monitors actually burn your skin, for reals. Anyways, the straps are super easy to install and adjust.
Over to usability, and it’s as simple as it gets. You only have one button to run everything. Long press it, and the device turn on. It’s usually ready to pair with available ANT+ and Bluetooth devices. Once paired, it may light blue, purple, or red to indicate low, medium, and high heart rate zones, respectively.
The specific values and ranges are set by the user depending on their physique. Long-press the device to turn it off after use.
6. Durability and Battery Life
What’s fitness gear if it can’t last, now that you are paying high dollars for it? The good news is the Scosche Rhythm 1.9 is made of chrome and vanadium steel. These are long-lasting materials that rightly complement the already durable straps. The sealed construction is what aids the unit get an IP67 waterproofing certification.
It can be submerged up to 1M deep. All the while, you can transmit data to, say, a compatible smartwatch if worn on the same arm. This may not be possible for phones due to the low power Bluetooth signal used. Unless, of course, you have the phone with you and nearby.
The Scosche Rhythm 1.9 uses a rechargeable battery that juices up in 2 hours. It powers the device, on active mode, for 8 hours. This means that you can use a single charge more than once. The battery can serve you for years while maintaining a good charge retention capacity.
I consider this to be the better option than the coin cell alternative, which may require periodic replacements.
7. Approval Rating
Of course, the customer is king! Scosche Rhythm 1.9 is a huge success in the tracking industry. It enjoys a score of more than 4.5 stars across all platforms. Most users admit to having made a good decision buying the tracker. There’s a lot to like, as previously discussed in detail. However, we have a few extras.
Let’s start with the free return policy that may get you a replacement or refund on the watch within 30 days of purchase. Next up, the watch is covered by a 1-year warranty, which you may never need. Black, blue, grey, green, and pink are the color options to choose from. You are likely to find one you like and which complements your style.
All you need is in the box- a USB charging cable, manual and extra straps. A soft version of the manual and start-up guide is also available online for free. This makes it a complete package.
Drawbacks (Cons) of the Scosche Rhythm 1.9
The bands are a little clunky and may become a sweat magnet. However, this also depends on how you buckle, set, and clean the straps.
Scosche Rhythm 1.9 Heart Rate Monitor Buyer’s Guide
1. Price
The price of a great product is likely to Evoque mixed feelings amongst buyers. However, it’s only reflective of the hardware and software experience you are likely to rip from the purchase. In heart rate monitors, the narrative remains fairly consistent. Note that the aesthetic appearance of a heart rate monitor only contributes a small portion of its value.
With many players on the market, the hardware looks almost identical across most manufacturers. The real question is accuracy, which is determined by the quality of sensors onboard the device, which brings the cost up. If you are going to rely on the readings, they better be correct. Otherwise, your whole formula is compromised.
2. Strap
When it comes to the belt, I consider its size, ventilation, color, and fit. Real quick, it should be thick enough not to tear easily. It should also be long enough to go round your arm. A breathable fabric could be used in place of the more common perforated iteration. This ensures that the band retains its color and smell.
Speaking of color, there should be at least two options. There should be two sizes available- small and large. In case you fall into either category.
3. Battery Life
You have two varieties here- coin cell or rechargeable batteries. The former lasts much longer but will eventually require replacement. If you don’t mind the time and cost, it’s a viable option. The other more common and personal bias is the rechargeable battery you get to use as you’d like.
Anything from 6-8 hours on a single charge is great. But as you saw earlier, you may find models that run for well over 24 hours. The charging cable should be preferably micro USB or USB-C. For convenience reasons.
4. Interfacing
I don’t know any consumer heart rate sensor that can natively process the data and summarize it in a meaningful format. Therefore, you should access the readings from as many devices and as easily as possible.
Bluetooth and ANT+ are the two most common forms of wireless communication supported by most market sensors.
Dual-band mode may be supported to allow you to pair more than two pieces of equipment at once. Check that the app you intend to use with the monitor can accurately read and interpret the information as it comes. This may enhance the speed, accuracy, and reliability of the sensor.
The pairing process should be simple, as is the case with many devices. Typically one or two buttons max perform all possible operations. An LED status indicator light as well as a heart rate zone flag light would be great. They help you understand the device.
5. Accuracy
A heart rate monitor should be accurate. Meaning, it should give readings as close and in sync with the heart as it can process the incoming signals.
Remember that, by design, electrode heart rate sensors are more accurate than their optical counterparts. However, the difference is hardly noticeable, thanks to the improvement in technology.
It should also adapt well to temperature, grip, and pressure changes. This allows you to use it for dynamic activities.
6. Durability
A heart rate sensor’s shell is usually as solid as a brick, so there’s not much to worry about there. Except, it needs to be water and sweat-resistant, so you don’t feel restricted. The buttons and LEDs should be solid in place. Finally, the straps should be made of high-quality, hardy materials such as polyester, nylon, leather, or silicon.
Type
Heart rate monitors can be optical types such as armbands or chest types such as chest strap heart rate sensors. The optical type is less accurate but more convenient and flexible than the chest strap type. Pick your demons wisely!
Benefits of Scosche Rhythm 1.9 Heart Rate Monitor
What Others Are Saying About the Scosche Rhythm 1.9 Heart Rate Monitor
One customer said:
Another customer said:
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Alternatives to the Scosche Rhythm 1.9 Heart Rate Monitor
1. Scosche Rythm 24: Premium Alternative 4.9/5
Same great product with a touch of luxury.
The Scosche rhythm 24 is a beast. It’s made of canvas straps that are micro-adjustable for a custom fit. The design has been updated, and the same with the performance as well. You now have not one but 4 LED lights. 1 as the primary status indicator, the others for heart rate zones.
It supports both ANT+ and Bluetooth and can work concurrently. The tracker is water and sweat resistant and promises a long service life. With 24-hour battery life, you can use this thing for even a week. It’s available in black: blue and grey.
Key features
- Fully adjustable
- Excellent design
- Durable materials
- Reliable accuracy
- Water and sweat proof
Notable differences with the Scosche Rhythm 1.9
- Pricier
- More LEDs
- Better accuracy
- Longer battery life
2. POLAR H10 Heart Rate Monitor Chest Strap: Chest Strap Alternative ⅘
I would be this POLAR H10 Heart Rate Monitor for the color options it comes with – black, turquoise, orange, and grey.
This time you are getting a chest strap. It’s especially best for pro athletes who prioritize accuracy over form factor. It’s water and sweat resistant and boasts durable silicon straps with buckle dots.
This allows for a snuggly fit across users of different sizes. The Strap is made of 38% Polyamide, 29% Polyurethane, 20% Elastane, 13% & Polyester. It supports dual-band ANT+ and Bluetooth connections. The Polar H10 chest strap heart rate monitor pairs with the Polar Beat app to receive essential firmware updates.
Key features
- Easy to use
- Highly accurate
- Durable materials
- Dual-band connectivity
- Regular software updates
Notable differences with the Scosche Rhythm 1.9
- Pricier
- More accurate
- Uses electrodes instead of light
3. Powr Labs Bluetooth Heart Rate Monitor Armband: Cheaper Alternative 4.5/5
Wireless charging, 60-hour battery life, Smaller footprint.
These are all the outstanding features of the Power Labs Bluetooth heart rate monitor armband. It’s made of durable fabric with velcro straps. It assumes a very similar body to the aforementioned Scosche Rhythm 1.9.
It boasts IP67 water and sweat-proofing certification along with a 1-year unlimited warranty. It’s been tried and tested with pro athletes, and its accuracy is reliable. It’s priced within the mid-range and comes in 2 colors- black and luminous green.
Key features
- Accurate
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
- Long battery life
- Water and sweat-resistant
Notable differences with the Scosche Rhythm 1.9
- Cheaper
- Supports wireless charging
Final Thoughts
The Scosche Rhythm 1.9 is a highly recommendable heart rate monitor for its speed, accuracy, durability, compatibility, and design. Ensure that you adjust it to a proper grip for better readings. Otherwise, thanks for reading to the end. Do check out some of our great tech and fitness content on the site.
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