7 best mechanical blood pressure monitors

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!

Types of tonometers

The manual tonometer of the mechanical type is produced in two versions: with a separate stethoscope or built into the cuff. There are devices in which the pressure gauge is combined with a bulb, which simplifies the procedure for measuring your own blood pressure. Often there are separate devices for adults and for children. The devices offered for sale differ not only in design, but also in technical characteristics, overall dimensions, length of the shoulder cuff, measurement range and other parameters.

With phonendoscope

If you are planning to buy a good tonometer for measuring blood pressure, which is equipped with a phonendoscope, pay attention to Shock Protection LD-91 from the manufacturer LD-91 (Singapore). The device is recommended for use in non-office operating conditions, for example, for ambulances, home doctors, medical rescue services in emergency cases, etc. It fully complies with shock resistance standards and, if used correctly, will last at least 2-3 years:

• Model name: Little Doctor Shock Protection LD-91;
• price: 1175 rub.;
• characteristics: phonendoscope included, shoulder cuff – 25-36 cm, type – enlarged adult, material – nylon, pressure gauge made of plastic, dial diameter – 50 mm, measurement limits – 20-300 mm Hg (Hg), possible discrepancies – +/- 3 mm Hg, weight – 332 g;
• pros: relatively light weight compared to metal counterparts, presence of an automatic zero adjustment mechanism;
• Cons: The plastic body may feel flimsy.

The CS106F device from the Russian manufacturer CS Medica is distinguished by comfortable ear olives (attachments) and the ability to be used with five cuffs for an shoulder circumference from 9 to 50 cm. This mechanical device is cheaper than many foreign analogues:

• Model name: CS Medica CS-106;
• price: 870 rub.;
• characteristics: there is a metal phonendoscope, shoulder cuff - 22-42 cm, type - enlarged without a fixing ring, measurement limits - 20-300 mm Hg, possible discrepancies - +/- 3 mm Hg, pressure gauge body - metal, weight – 400 g;
• pros: the presence of a dust filter in the bulb, it is cheap;
• cons: none.

Without phonendoscope

Little Doctor LD-70NR is an inexpensive metal aneroid device from a Singaporean manufacturer. The device is equipped with a metal pickling needle valve and a check valve filter. It is recommended to operate at temperatures from +10 to +40 degrees and humidity from 85% and below. There are no age restrictions, but the device can be used if the appropriate size cuff is used. The LD-70NR tonometer is designed for 7 years of service:

• model name: Little Doctor LD-70NR;
• price: 730 rub.;
• characteristics: shoulder cuff – 25-40 cm, material – nylon, metal pressure gauge, dial diameter – 4.5 cm, possible discrepancies – +/- 3 mm Hg, measurement limits – 20-300 mm Hg, weight – 237 g;
• pros: presence of a mesh filter, build quality, reasonable cost;
• cons: the phonendoscope must be purchased separately.

Pay attention to the mechanical device from the recognized leader Microlife (Switzerland) - BP-AG1-10. The tonometer is equipped with a needle valve, which ensures the release of air from the cuff of the device more smoothly compared to analogues. The kit is stored in a bag with a zipper:

• Model name: Microlife BP AG1-10;
• price: 1090 rub.;
• characteristics: shoulder cuff – 25-40 cm, possible discrepancies – +/- 3 mm Hg, measurement limits – 0-299 mm Hg, weight – 360 g;
• Pros: storage bag, provides accurate measurements;
• Disadvantages: it costs more than its analogues; you have to buy a phonendoscope.

With stethoscope

Microlife BP AG1-20 is a mechanical device for measuring blood pressure, which includes a stethoscope. Designed for both medical professionals and home use. Equipped with a bulb with a needle valve, due to which the air is released smoothly. The device has proven itself, like many other tonometers from the recognized leader in this field Microlife:

• Model name: Microlife BP AG1-20;
• price: 1020 rub.;
• characteristics: shoulder cuff – 22-32 cm, there is a stethoscope, a storage bag;
• pluses: availability of a bag, accessibility;
• cons: none.

BP AG1-40 from Microlife is a mechanical device equipped with an enlarged pressure gauge, the design of which is combined with a pressure bulb. The latter is latex, making it durable and elastic. The tonometer is designed for use in different conditions:

• Model name: Microlife BP AG1-40;
• price: 1440 rub.;
• characteristics: there is a stethoscope, a storage bag, cuff dimensions (shoulder) - 25-40 cm, measurement limits - 0-300 mm Hg, possible discrepancies - +/- 6 mm Hg, weight - 520 g;
• pros: there is a bag, the air is released smoothly;
• disadvantages: high error, cost.

AG1-30 is a device from the Swiss manufacturer Microlife with a built-in stethoscope. Designed for accurate pressure measurement in domestic conditions:

• Model name: BP-AG1-30;
• price: 1270 rub.;
• characteristics: there is a built-in stethoscope, a storage bag, a cuff - 22-32 cm, measurement limits - 0-299 mm Hg, possible discrepancies - in the range from 0 to 4 mm Hg, weight - 450 g;
• pluses: the presence of a nylon bag with a clasp;
• cons: high error.

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With age cuffs

IAD-01-2A is a mechanical tonometer with an expanded package, which includes a set of age-related cuffs, a storage bag and a stethoscope SF-03 “ADJUTOR”, SF-01 “ADJUTOR”. The set is optimal for use by doctors, for example, in kindergarten. More details about the characteristics of the device:

• model name: IAD-01-2A;
• price: 5440 rub.;
• characteristics: there are 2 stethophonendoscopes, extended cuff – 25-42 cm, standard – 22-36 cm, children’s – 9-15/14-21/20-28 cm;
• pluses: rich equipment, comfortable belt, bag with compartments for documents;
• cons: expensive.

The LD-80 mechanical aneroid device is intended for measuring blood pressure in children. The device's blower check valve is equipped with a strainer that can prevent dust from clogging the pressure gauge. This mechanical device is reliable, but it is recommended to operate it at temperatures from +10°C to +40°C:

• Model name: LD-80;
• price: 1400 rub.;
• characteristics: there are 3 cuffs (C2N, C2I, C2C) made of cotton for the shoulder with a circumference of 7-12/11-19/18-26 cm, a metal pressure gauge, dial diameter - 4.4 cm. measurement limits – 20-300 mm Hg, possible discrepancies – +/- 3 mm Hg, weight – 351 g, guarantee – 1 g;
• pluses: presence of a bag, rich set, affordable price;
• cons: lack of a phonendoscope.

With extended cuff

Take a closer look at the B.WELL WM-62S mechanical tonometer with a reliable needle air valve with a smooth release. This makes it easier to recognize soft and loud tones. The air blower and pneumatic chambers are made using seamless technology from high-quality latex. Includes a nylon bag with a zipper. The mechanical device is optimal for professional and home use:

• Model name: B.WELL WM-62S;
• price: 520 rub.;
• characteristics: enlarged cuff – 25-40 cm, measurement limits – 0-300 mm Hg, possible discrepancies – +/- 3 mm Hg, weight – 385 g, warranty – 1 year;
• pros: there is a comfortable and soft case, low cost;
• cons: none.

Another tonometer in this product category is the CS110 Premium from the Russian manufacturer CS Medica. Intended for use in medical practice, for example, in clinics, hospitals, ambulances, physiotherapy rooms:

• model name: CS Medica CS-110 Premium;
• price: 4200 rub.;
• characteristics: there is a phonendoscope, a cuff (enlarged) without a fixing bracket - 22-39 cm, measurement limits - 0-300 mm Hg, possible discrepancies - +/- 3 mm Hg, weight - 540 g;
• pros: high-quality assembly, ease of use;
• cons: high cost.

Mechanical professional tonometer

Little Doctor LD-81 is a professional tonometer for taking measurements using the Korotkov method. Recommended for doctors working in hospitals and clinics. Can be used at home as a complement to medical supervision. The mechanical device is equipped with a metal pickling needle valve. It is recommended to operate at temperatures from +10°С to +40°С and humidity below 85%:

• model name: Little Doctor LD-81;
• price: 1170 rub.;
• characteristics: enlarged adult cuff made of nylon - 25-36 cm, pressure gauge made of plastic, dial diameter - 6 cm, measurement limits - 0-300 mm Hg, possible discrepancies - +/- 3 mm Hg, weight - 296 G;
• pros: lightweight, has a built-in phonendoscope;
• cons: none.

The professional classic tonometer AND UA-200 with a high-precision measurement function is a good choice for medical workers. The model is made of high-quality alloy, thanks to which it will last a very long time:

• model name: AND UA-200;
• price: 1149 rub.;
• characteristics: there is a Rappoport stethoscope with replaceable parts, measurement limits - 20-300 mm Hg, possible discrepancies - +/- 2 mm Hg, weight - 560 g, warranty - 3 years;
• pros: excellent accuracy, availability of a convenient case;
• cons: none.

DS45-11 from the American manufacturer Welch Allyn with a 10-year calibration warranty. This integrated aneroid tonometer can be rotated 360 degrees for easy reading:

• Model name: Welch Allyn DS45;
• price: 8300 rub.;
• characteristics: reusable cuff – 25-34 cm, dimensions – 53x13.5 cm, measurement limits – 0–300 mm Hg;
• pros: shockproof design, durable, comfortable;
• cons: very expensive.

Desktop

As an option, you can order a tabletop tonometer. A relatively inexpensive Chinese-made purchase is the Little Doctor LD100, which is equipped with a large dial. A professional apparatus for measuring blood pressure is equipped with a metal stethoscope, which is particularly sensitive. The supercharger check valve has a special mesh filter, thanks to which the tonometer does not become clogged with dust. The LD100 pressure gauge is directly connected to the blower bulb:

• model name: Little Doctor LD-100;
• price: 1510 rub.;
• characteristics: there is a stethoscope, shoulder cuff – 25-36 cm, dimensions – 14x53 cm, material – nylon, pressure gauge made of plastic, dial diameter – 11 cm, measurement limits – 0-300 mm Hg, possible discrepancies – +/- 3 mm mercury column, weight – 464 g;
• pluses: large contrasting dial, mesh filter at the valve, size marks;
• cons: costs more than analogues.

The AT-41 desktop mechanical device has an elongated tube and an enlarged dial. A distinctive feature is the stand, which can ensure stable placement of the pressure gauge on a table or other horizontal surface:

• model name: AT-41;
• price: 1881 rub.;
• characteristics: cuff without fixing ring – 50x14 cm, pressure gauge size – 15x15 cm, scale – from 0 to 300 mm Hg. Art.;
• pros: convenient, high quality, can be mounted on a wall;
• cons: expensive, no phonendoscope.

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

How to choose a mechanical tonometer

Models from this category are the most budget-friendly on the market of all devices for measuring blood pressure. Let's look at the criteria you should rely on when choosing:

• Equipment. The measurement accuracy practically does not depend on the configuration. There are models both without a phonendoscope and with a phonendoscope on a tube, but they are rarely used, because create significant inconvenience during measurement. More practical are tonometers with a universal cuff, with a phonendoscope “built-in” into it. They are most convenient for measuring pressure independently and do not require the presence of an assistant.
• Age. In particular, this criterion applies to older people. As we age, the skin thins and becomes more susceptible to damage. In addition, in the elderly, blood circulation and nerve conduction are often impaired, so for older people you need to choose a mechanical tonometer with a painless cuff - it will not only not damage the skin, but will also prevent pinching of blood vessels and nerves, virtually eliminating discomfort.
• Body type. Depending on the patient’s physique, manufacturers produce cuffs of several sizes: a 15-23 cm cuff is suitable for small children and people of asthenic physique; 22-33 cm - standard cuff, suitable for people with a normal build; 32-43 cm - large cuff for obese people and hypersthenics; 22-43 cm is a universal cuff that comes with most tonometers.
• Brand. The most popular on the market are tonometers from the world's largest medical equipment manufacturing companies (AND, Little Doctor, CS Medica, Omron). They are of the highest quality and are sold in any pharmacy. Among the Russian manufacturers, we can mention the Armed company, but many pharmacists have not even heard of it - for this reason, the article will not discuss Russian-made tonometers.

It should be noted that all mechanical tonometers work on the same principle, so choosing one from the many devices on the market can be difficult. In the process of compiling the rating, we asked pharmacists to tell us about the most frequently purchased models - they were included in the list of the best.

Useful materials to choose from