AFib Tracking: The Best Wearables to Spot Irregular Heartbeats

Atrial fibrillation (AFib)—a common yet serious heart rhythm disorder—affects millions of people globally and is a major risk factor for stroke, heart failure, and cognitive decline. Yet, one of its most dangerous traits is that it can go undetected for years due to intermittent or asymptomatic episodes. In 2025, thanks to advancements in digital health, wearable technology is revolutionizing AFib detection, giving people the power to track heart irregularities in real time.

This article explores how modern AFib-tracking wearables empower users to identify abnormal heart rhythms, understand their triggers, and share actionable health data with providers. We’ll cover the top devices, scientific validation, and how to use wearables effectively—especially for those at high risk or already diagnosed with arrhythmias.

Why Early AFib Detection Matters

AFib is characterized by rapid, chaotic electrical signals in the upper chambers of the heart, leading to irregular and often fast heartbeat. It increases stroke risk by up to fivefold and is frequently linked to:

• Fatigue and brain fog
• Palpitations or fluttering sensations
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness or fainting
• Silent strokes and vascular dementia

Early detection is critical because timely treatment—whether via lifestyle changes, medication, or procedures—can prevent complications. However, many AFib episodes are paroxysmal, meaning they come and go unpredictably. That’s where continuous monitoring via wearables becomes essential.

How Wearables Detect Irregular Heartbeats

Most modern wearables use one of two main technologies:

• Photoplethysmography (PPG): Uses light sensors to measure pulse changes in blood volume. Ideal for detecting irregular pulse patterns during activity or sleep.
• Electrocardiography (ECG or EKG): Measures the heart’s electrical activity directly through skin sensors, offering medical-grade insights into rhythm, rate, and waveform irregularities.

Advanced algorithms then analyze the signal patterns to flag possible AFib events, prompting users to take further action if needed.

Key Features to Look for in AFib-Tracking Wearables

When choosing a wearable for AFib detection, look for devices that offer:

• FDA or CE clearance for medical-grade AFib detection
• On-demand ECG recording capability
• Passive heart rate tracking with irregular rhythm notifications
• Long battery life and comfortable wear
• Cloud-sync or EHR integration for clinician collaboration
• Sleep and activity tracking to correlate triggers

Additional features like blood oxygen monitoring and stress tracking can provide holistic cardiovascular data.

Top Wearables for AFib Detection in 2025

Here are some of the best-reviewed and clinically validated devices currently leading the space.

Apple Watch Series 9

Platform: iOS
Detection Methods: PPG + single-lead ECG
Key Features:

• FDA-cleared ECG app with 30-second readings
• Irregular rhythm notifications during rest
• Sleep, activity, and blood oxygen monitoring
• Seamless integration with Apple Health and provider platforms

Apple Watch remains a top performer due to its reliability, ease of use, and increasing use in clinical research. Ideal for users already in the Apple ecosystem.

Withings ScanWatch 2

Platform: iOS & Android
Detection Methods: Medical-grade ECG + SpO2 + PPG
Key Features:

• Hybrid analog-smart design with 24/7 AFib screening
• Automatic alerts for irregular rhythms
• Long battery life (up to 30 days)
• Advanced sleep apnea detection

Withings prioritizes both style and function. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting a less “techy” aesthetic without compromising health data quality.

Fitbit Charge 6

Platform: iOS & Android
Detection Methods: ECG + PPG
Key Features:

• On-wrist ECG with results in 30 seconds
• Irregular heart rhythm notifications
• Guided breathing and stress tools
• Works with Google Health Connect

FitBit’s integration with stress management tools makes it great for those whose AFib may be triggered by anxiety or poor sleep. Lightweight and ideal for beginners.

KardiaMobile 6L by AliveCor

Platform: Smartphone app (no wristwear)
Detection Methods: 6-lead ECG
Key Features:

• Clinical-grade EKG on demand
• Accurate detection of AFib, bradycardia, tachycardia
• Can share recordings instantly with providers
• FDA-cleared and used in cardiology clinics

While not a wearable per se, KardiaMobile is perfect for those under cardiologist care or managing known AFib. Its portability allows quick recordings during symptoms.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 6

Platform: Android
Detection Methods: ECG + PPG
Key Features:

• Medical-grade ECG and irregular rhythm alerts
• Blood pressure monitoring (in select countries)
• Fall detection and emergency response
• Integrates with Samsung Health and third-party apps

For Android users, the Galaxy Watch 6 offers one of the most robust AFib monitoring experiences on the market, with AI-enhanced detection accuracy.

How to Use AFib Wearables Effectively

To get the most out of your AFib-tracking device, consider these tips:

• Wear it consistently, especially during sleep, when silent AFib often strikes
• Use the ECG feature if you feel fluttering, chest tightness, or dizziness
• Correlate symptom logs with time-stamped rhythm irregularities
• Share ECG reports with your cardiologist during appointments
• Pay attention to trends, not just isolated spikes in heart rate

Many wearables now include AI-generated health summaries, which help providers spot patterns or decide whether further diagnostic testing is needed.

The Role of AI and Remote Monitoring in AFib Care

In 2025, AFib wearables are no longer standalone gadgets—they’re part of a growing remote cardiac monitoring ecosystem.

• AI-powered platforms analyze heartbeat data to distinguish between harmless irregularities and high-risk episodes
• Telecardiology apps allow doctors to receive alerts when patients experience episodes
• Some insurers now reimburse AFib wearables for high-risk individuals

Early evidence suggests that patients using wearables engage more proactively with their care, lowering hospital visits and improving medication adherence.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While wearables are powerful tools, they are not diagnostic devices. Always seek medical advice if:

• You receive repeated AFib or high heart rate alerts
• You experience palpitations, fainting, or chest discomfort
• Your wearable reports correlate with fatigue or confusion
• You have a family history of stroke or arrhythmias

Prompt evaluation may include Holter monitoring, echocardiogram, or in some cases, anticoagulant or rhythm-control therapy.

FAQs

Can a wearable diagnose AFib?

No. Wearables can detect patterns suggestive of AFib, but diagnosis must be confirmed by a physician, typically through an ECG or extended monitoring.

Are AFib wearables accurate?

Most FDA-cleared devices have high sensitivity and specificity, particularly when worn properly and regularly. ECG features provide more precise data than pulse sensors.

Can I wear an AFib tracker to bed?

Yes. In fact, many AFib episodes occur during sleep, making nighttime tracking particularly valuable.

Do these devices work for people with pacemakers?

Some wearables may not accurately measure heart rhythms in individuals with implanted devices. Check with your cardiologist before use.

Is AFib always dangerous?

Not necessarily. Some cases are mild and intermittent, while others require aggressive management. Early detection is key to determining risk.