Polar’s newest H9 heart rate monitor strap trims off some of the extra standalone features of their top-end H10 strap, cutting its price by 33%, yet still retaining multi-device Bluetooth, ANT+, and even 5kHz connectivity. Polar says the new heart rate sensor is targeted at training beginners, but it’s just as much about managing costs by leaving out features that most athletes really don’t use.
Polar H9 heart rate monitor strap with BLE, ANT+ & 5 kHz
Polar adds the new H9 heart rate sensor, pulling the essentials from the top-level H10 – precise heart rate tracking accuracy, and reliable & easy to set up wireless connectivity. Geared toward beginners, the H9 still allows connection to multiple devices at a time, just here one device per wireless channel, i.e. one device each for Bluetooth, ANT+, or 5kHz (The H10 can talk to 2 BLE devices at once). That last one might seem out of place to many cyclists, but it is the communication method used by lots of fitness equipment in gyms, making this an easy match for people headed to spin class.
Tech details & connectivity
Most cyclists are going to want to use this a better or replacement option for sending heartrate data to their cycling computers or mobile phones, or to computers running virtual training like Zwift or The Sufferfest. The more expensive H10 has an accelerometer & onboard memory so you could go for one ride or run without any other devices (once you started its tracking via the mobile app), but the H9 needs a constantly connected device to track your workout.
With Strava no longer connecting their mobile app to heart rate straps, the Polar Beat app may be a good option to collect & log your data, and can be then automatically synced with other social & training platforms.
Pricing & availability
The new H9 heart rate monitor features a new soft strap for comfortable fit, and long 400 hour life with the CR2025 watch battery (said to be designed to work for an hour a day of exercise for a year). It is also waterproof to 30m depths so you can cross train swimming as well. The new H9 strap sells for $60 / 60€ in two sizes (XS-S & M-XXL), and is available from all Polar retailer from today.
