Rating of TOP-8 mechanical tonometers of 2021: review of the best manual models

Updated: 08/26/2020 Mechanical blood pressure monitors are popular due to their low cost compared to automatic and semi-automatic models. However, it is worth considering the fact that the accuracy of measurements largely depends on the skills of working with the device. The mechanical tonometer itself is a fairly accurate device, but in the hands of a non-professional, errors in measurements can have a wide range. Also, the mechanical option is not suitable for people with hearing and vision impairments.

There are two types of pressure gauges:

• Mercury.
  The pressure in the cuff is balanced using a column of mercury. They are considered more accurate, but in practice this is not always the case.
• With sealed container.
  Mechanical models are equipped with a sealed vessel with a membrane, the vibrations of which set the hand on the dial in motion. The advantage of such a device is its safety, since the device does not contain mercury. And when used correctly, the accuracy of the device is much higher than that of many electronic models.

On sale you can find tonometers designed in such a way as to facilitate the process of self-measurement of pressure. In them, one end of the phonendoscope is attached to the cuff.

Features of choice

Before you go shopping, you should answer a few questions.

1. How often will blood pressure be measured?

If the pressure needs to be monitored regularly, then it is better to go with the automatic option. Working with it is much easier, the results do not depend on skills, self-diagnosis is not only easy, but also fast. Plus, automatic instruments are often equipped with a function for storing the results of the latest measurements in memory.

If you plan to measure pressure from time to time, and you have some skills in working with the device (or can be acquired), then a mechanical option is sufficient.

2. Do you have cardiovascular diseases?

Some diseases (arrhythmia, for example) tend to distort the tonometer readings. In this situation, it is necessary to choose a model that is equipped with PAD technology and takes measurements on the shoulder.

3. What is the arm circumference?

To choose the right cuff, you should find out your hand size. Cuffs come in (mostly) 3 sizes:

• S (15-22 cm).
• M (22-32 cm).
• L (32-42 cm).

4. Is there someone nearby who knows how to operate the device?

Many people, especially older people, find it difficult to measure their blood pressure on their own, especially with mechanical tonometers. If there is a person nearby who can provide assistance, then the problem is solved. If not, you should pay attention to such nuances as the softness and convenience of the bulb for injection, the size and clarity of the pressure gauge scale, and good audibility with a phonendoscope.

We present the rating of mechanical tonometers 2021. The best 10 models that were selected by our experts based on user reviews and ratings.

There are contraindications, be sure to consult your doctor!

Popular models

The rating of the best devices from trusted developers who guarantee the high quality of their medical equipment will help you decide on the choice of a suitable model of mechanical tonometer for taking measurements at home.

Rating and review of the TOP 10 best models of manual tonometers in terms of price and quality ratio.

AND UA-100

A classic mechanical tonometer at an affordable price, which will delight the buyer with stable operation, a high level of ergonomics and excellent functionality.

The cuff is made of practical and durable nylon, it does not apply excessive pressure and does not cause an allergic reaction on sensitive skin.

After finishing work, the air is released smoothly.

The device is equipped with a built-in stethoscope with removable, replaceable parts. Additionally, the kit includes a carrying case.

Specifications:

• measurement location: shoulder;
• minimum/maximum cuff size - 29 cm/41 cm;
• measurement error of indicators - 3 mm Hg;
• automatic shutdown function - no;
• indication of arrhythmia - no;
• built-in clock - no.

Advantages

• wear resistance of the device;
• quickly obtaining accurate data;
• reasonable price with high quality;
• elementary control system;
• Possibility of use by people of large build.

Flaws

• short warranty period;
• convenient storage of equipment;
• The cuff may feel stiff.

AND UA-200

A standard device for shoulder measurement, equipped with a tight cuff, which is perfect for both home and professional use.

The equipment is made of high-strength materials, the nylon cuff fits tightly to the skin, but does not squeeze it or rub the skin.

The air release adjustment is smooth, which does not cause any discomfort. The device also includes a metal pressure gauge.

The device comes with a stethoscope, which has high acoustic sensitivity and has a durable design.

Specifications:

• measurement location: shoulder;
• minimum/maximum cuff size - 22 cm/32 cm;
• measurement error of indicators - 3 mm Hg;
• automatic shutdown function - no;
• indication of arrhythmia - no;
• built-in clock - no.

Advantages

• relative compactness of the device;
• high quality materials;
• convenient pressure control at home;
• the presence of an elastic pear;
• clear calculation scale.

Flaws

• inconvenient self-measurement;
• standard equipment;
• small numbers on the monometer.

B.Well PRO-60

A compact mechanical tonometer that measures blood pressure using the Korotkoff method, which is an ideal solution for use at home.

The design consists of a high-precision pressure gauge in a metal case, a durable nylon cuff, a supercharger complete with a release valve, and a stethoscope.

Air is pumped into the cuff using an ergonomic bulb - it fits comfortably in the hand and can be easily inflated by hand.

A nice feature of the model is its light weight, which makes it easy to carry the device.

Specifications:

• measurement location: shoulder;
• minimum/maximum cuff size - 22 cm/42 cm;
• measurement error of indicators - 3 mm Hg;
• automatic shutdown function - no;
• indication of arrhythmia - no;
• built-in clock - no.

Advantages

• presence of wear-resistant cuff;
• simple and convenient control;
• high quality at low price;
• long warranty period;
• clear instructions for use.

Flaws

• the cuff exerts excessive pressure;
• the price is a little high;
• mediocre functionality.

Little Doctor LD-71A

Mechanical professional tonometer with a built-in metal stethoscope, designed for quick measurement of blood pressure using the Korotkoff method.

To avoid clogging the device with dust, the manufacturer equipped it with a special mesh filter for the check valve - this will help to significantly extend the life of medical equipment.

For convenient control of correct use, markings are applied to the cuff - now it will be much easier to use the device.

Latex was not used in the model, which increases the strength and reliability of the equipment.

Specifications:

• measurement location: shoulder;
• minimum/maximum cuff size - 25 cm/36 cm;
• measurement error of indicators - 3 mm Hg;
• automatic shutdown function - no;
• indication of arrhythmia - no;
• built-in clock - no.

Advantages

• high technology of the device;
• impeccable functionality;
• combination of quality and price;
• durable shockproof housing;
• minimum measurement error.

Flaws

• small supercharger volume;
• over time, the tubes become deformed;
• not the biggest numbers on the dial.

Meditech MT-20 with built-in stethoscope

A detailed tonometer model with a built-in stethoscope, featuring a pressure gauge with a large display and easy-to-read numbers for comfortable use.

The device is suitable for five types of cuffs, which makes it universal - both adult users and small children can work with the gadget.

The device has a high-quality acoustic system: sound insulation from extraneous noise and a sensitive stethoscope membrane.

The device will also be an excellent assistant for people with a pacemaker installed - the tonometer allows you to measure blood pressure for up to one minute.

Specifications:

• measurement location: shoulder;
• minimum/maximum cuff size - 25.4 cm/40.6 cm;
• measurement error of indicators - 3 mm Hg;
• automatic shutdown function - no;
• indication of arrhythmia - no;
• built-in clock - no.

Advantages

• possibility of professional use;
• the pear fits comfortably in the palm of your hand;
• air leak rate;
• universal size cuff;
• A pressure gauge lock is provided.

Flaws

• overcharge;
• tight cuff edges;
• Quite a short tube.

CS Medica CS 107

An innovative device with an oversized pressure gauge with an easy-to-read scale, presented in a high-strength plastic case.

A mechanical device with a built-in phonendoscope allows you to comfortably measure pressure yourself, so even an inexperienced beginner can cope with the task.

A well-thought-out system of protection against clogging the bulb with dust helps to extend the service life of the equipment.

The equipment is compact in size and light weight, which means that it will not take up too much space.

In addition, the device will be easy to carry or take with you on long trips.

Specifications:

• measurement location: shoulder;
• minimum/maximum cuff size - 22 cm/38 cm;
• measurement error of indicators - 3 mm Hg;
• automatic shutdown function - no;
• indication of arrhythmia - no;
• built-in clock - no.

Advantages

• relatively low cost of the device;
• efficient operation without failures;
• full functionality of the tool;
• practicality and safety of materials;
• Reliable protection of the device from dust.

Flaws

• small supercharger volume;
• the presence of a specific odor;
• mediocre equipment.

CS Medica CS-109 Pro

A professional mechanical tonometer, created for medical practitioners and people who want to learn how to measure blood pressure at home in order to fully monitor their health.

The device is supplied in an expanded configuration - for ease of storage and transportation, a special carrying bag is provided.

The set also includes three cuffs of different sizes.

The mechanism is resistant to corrosion, which is a significant advantage of this model - the equipment will last as long as possible.

Specifications:

• measurement location: shoulder;
• minimum/maximum cuff size - 29 cm/41 cm;
• measurement error of indicators - 3 mm Hg;
• automatic shutdown function - no;
• indication of arrhythmia - no;
• built-in clock - no.

Advantages

• smooth pressure release;
• high accuracy of the obtained indicators;
• light weight and compactness of the device;
• protection of the mechanism from dust and dirt;
• decent functionality.

Flaws

• rigid cuff;
• instructions are of average information content;
• level of ergonomics.

Microlife BP AG1-20

Aneroid tonometer with a pressure gauge in a metal case, which has an enlarged dial with clear digitization, for which there are no difficult tasks.

The equipment is supplied complete with three cuffs of different sizes and a compact transport bag made of wear-resistant material.

A stethoscope with extra-soft ear tips is also available. The air release adjustment is smooth.

The device is suitable for both regular home use and professional use in a medical facility.

Specifications:

• measurement location: shoulder;
• minimum/maximum cuff size - 22 cm/32 cm;
• measurement error of indicators - 3 mm Hg;
• automatic shutdown function - no;
• indication of arrhythmia - no;
• built-in clock - no.

Advantages

• optimal set of options;
• ease of use;
• air leak rate;
• simplified storage system;
• minimal error in operation.

Flaws

• scant additional functionality;
• Quite a lot of weight when fully assembled;
• pear elasticity.

Which mechanical tonometer is better to buy?

Mechanical blood pressure monitors are compact and lightweight, but it is still worth comparing the weight and your needs. For those who do not plan to carry the device with them, tonometers whose weight exceeds 500 g are suitable. Among them are CS Medica CS 105, CS Medica CS 107, AND UA-200. If you constantly carry a tonometer with you, and even in your bag, then the best option would be Armed 3.02.008, since its weight is only 360 g.

Also Armed 3.02.008 is one of the few devices. The cuff of which is designed for a girth of 50 cm. B.Well WM-63S has a slightly smaller size (from 32 cm). The remaining models are equipped with a cuff of 22–32 cm.

As for performance characteristics, all ten devices are ideal in each of the parameters.
One has only to pay attention to the CS Medica CS 105 tonometer - users complain about wear and tear on the cuff and tubes. If you plan to use it intensively, it is better to buy another model. Enjoy the shopping! Thanks to All.ru in Yandex Zen. Daily updates, subscribe, we have a lot of interesting things

What to look for when choosing

At this point, we would like to provide you with more specific information that you need to use when choosing a mechanical tonometer. Let us perhaps note a few main aspects.

Firstly, it’s worth mentioning one of the most important things, without which some people don’t even look at a tonometer: a phonendoscope . It is an important part and someone needs it, so it is advisable that it be included in the kit.

Secondly, the length of the cuff is an important point that not everyone will pay attention to. Our recommended parameters start with a minimum 220mm and a maximum 380mm cuff circumference for a mechanical blood pressure monitor.

As a final point, we noted the presence of additional functions and adaptation for the right and left hands, respectively. Among the additions, we will also note a phonendoscope and a supercharger, which are included in the main kit with the device. That's all for today. We hope we have helped with your further choice.