If you have followed this blog for a while, you know that one of my core values is keeping trail running cheap and accessible. While I love gear, I firmly believe that you shouldn’t need a massive bank account to get quality data and enjoy the trails. This mindset is what led me to look into the CYCPLUS H2 Pro.
I’ve previously reviewed the COROS Heart Rate Monitor, which is a great arm-band option, but many runners still prefer the accuracy of a chest strap. However, when you look at the big players like Garmin, you are often looking at a significant investment. For comparison, a Garmin HRM-200 costs $149 AUD, whereas the CYCPLUS H2 Pro retails for just $55.77 AUD. I wanted to see if a device at this price point could actually hold its own against the industry giants.
Full Disclosure: I was provided the CYCPLUS H2 Pro for free to test and review. However, CYCPLUS has been very clear that they welcome honest and objective feedback, and I have full creative freedom to review this device exactly how I see fit, good, bad, or indifferent.
The Quest for Accurate Heart Rate Data
As I’ve mentioned before, I prefer to use Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE) for trail running, but I value heart rate as a guidepost for recovery runs and interval intensity. I also value high quality data for my morning HRV and resting heart rate measurements using the HRV4Training app.
While wrist-based monitors are convenient, they are prone to “cadence lock” and struggle with blood flow detection in cold weather or technical terrain. Chest straps measure the heart’s electrical impulses directly, which is why they remain the preferred choice for those seeking the highest precision.
First Impressions: What’s In the Box?
The device comes in a tiny little box. Inside, you will find:
- The H2 Pro main sensor unit.
- An adjustable chest strap made of soft, breathable material.
- A CR2032 coin-cell battery (already installed but isolated by a plastic film).
- User Manual.
Key Features and Specifications
The H2 Pro is packed with features that you would typically expect from a much more expensive device. Most notably, it uses an ECG-level algorithm to deliver stable and precise data by reducing interference from movement and sweat. The purported battery life of 500 hours is quite impressive and much better than most competitors. Although it’s a hard one for me to verify in testing so we’ll have to take their word for it.
| Category | Specification | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Sensor + Strap | 34g (Sensor only: 21g) |
| Battery Life | Type / Duration | CR2032 / Up to 500 hours |
| Connectivity | Wireless Protocols | Dual Bluetooth & ANT+ |
| Water Resistance | Rating | IPX7 (Sweat/Rain proof; not for swimming) |
| Special Metrics | Advanced Tracking | Heart Rate Variability (HRV) |
Setting up and Day to Day Use
Setup is incredibly simple. Straight out of the box you need to open up the back of the sensor and take out the isolator piece from in front of the battery. Then you attach the sensor to the strap via the click buttons and you are good to go. The final step is connecting the strap to your desired device via bluetooth or ANT+.
The device features an internal motion sensor that activates the monitor as soon as it’s moved or snapped into the chest band. A green light flashes on the front indicating the sensor is turned on. For the best results, it is recommended to lightly moisten the electrode area on the strap before putting it on to ensure a strong initial signal.
In terms of connectivity, the dual Bluetooth and ANT+ support means it connects seamlessly with almost everything: Garmin, Apple Watch, Wahoo, Strava, Zwift, and even gym equipment like treadmills. Unlike some sensors that only allow one connection, the dual-protocol support lets you broadcast to your watch and a phone app simultaneously.
I’ve used the sensor conntected to my Garmin watch, Stava mobile app and HRV4Training app and it jumps seamlessly between each device.
Accuracy and HRV Tracking
The standout feature for me is the Heart Rate Variability (HRV) tracking. By capturing R-wave peaks with its ECG algorithm, the H2 Pro allows you to monitor your recovery status and prevent overtraining. Having this level of data in a sub-$60 device is impressive, especially since many athletes use HRV to decide when to push hard or take a rest day.
I use the device paired with the HRV4Training app to take morning measurements. This morning check in keeps me from overtraining, maladapting and burning out. There’s no point flogging a dead horse in training if it’s not recovering and adapting.
I haven’t been able to test the accuracy compared to other sensors but I have used the strap for many interval workouts and it seems to track intensity quite well without any anomalies.
Pros and Cons of the CYCPLUS H2 Pro
👍 Pros
- Incredible Value: Less than half the price of many competitors.
- Massive Battery Life: 500 hours
- Comfortable: Very lightweight at 21g (sensor) and uses a soft, adjustable strap.
- High Accuracy: Uses ECG algorithms for medical-grade precision.
- Broad Compatibility: Works with all major apps and devices via BT/ANT+.
- Cleaning and Repairs: strap can be detatched for washing or replacement
- Battery Access: Super easy to change the battery out
👎 Cons
- Not for Swimming: While IPX7 rated for rain/sweat, it isn’t designed for the pool.
- Battery Replacement: Uses a coin cell rather than being rechargeable (though 500 hours makes this a minor point).
- No On-board Storage: Relies on a paired device to record data.
- Battery non-compliant: The easy battery change feature is actually illegal in Australia, there is meant to be a screw on all access to button batteries to prevent babies choking on it
Comparison with Competitors
The device stacks up well against the competition. It is cheaper by a long shot with the price almost one third of the others.
| Feature | Garmin HRM 200 | Polar H10 | Wahoo TRACKR | CYCPLUS H2 Pro |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Life (Active) | ~365 hours (12 months @ 1 hr/day) | Up to 400 hours | Over 100 hours (Rechargeable) | Up to 500 hours |
| Onboard Memory / Recording | None; sends real-time data | 1 session (up to 30 hours) | Not specified; relies on Wahoo App | None; relies on paired device/app |
| Connectivity | ANT: No limit; Bluetooth: 3 | Dual Bluetooth LE & ANT+ | ANT+ & Bluetooth (up to 3 connections) | Dual Bluetooth & ANT+ |
| Water Resistance | 3 ATM | WR30 (30m) | IPX7 | IPX7 |
| Special Features | HRV, Status LED, machine washable strap | ECG precision, non-slip silicone spots, washable strap | Rechargeable battery, LED indicator, HRV support | ECG algorithm, HRV tracking, motion sensor activation |
| Approx. Price (AUD) | $149.00 | $149.00 | $149.95 | $55.77 |
My Honest Opinion of the Device
What I like about this device is it’s simplicity and the fact that it just works. I had it out of the box and connected to my watch in under a minute. From then on I just put it on, wet the eletrodes and it’s good to go. I’ve had no issues with connectivity or drop outs.
My greatest qualm with my Garmin strap is that the sensor is integrated into the elastic. This product fixes that problem by having a detachable sensor. This allows for ease of washing the strap and when it inevitable deteriorates you can buy a replacement strap without having to get a whole new sensor.
A few addition things that I like are the little rubber bits on the strap that grip and hold it in position. And the clip, I love the clip, it makes it super easy to put on and take off the strap. It’s a simple product that does what it’s meant to do. Overall it’s just as good if not better than my Garmin HRM-Pro for a sigificantly cheaper price.
Conclusion: Is the CYCPLUS H2 Pro Worth Buying?
If you want the accuracy of a chest strap and accurate HRV without the “brand name” tax, the CYCPLUS H2 Pro is a good choice. It proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get decent training data. I’ve been using it for about a month now and have had no issues at all.
Bottom Line: It’s accurate, comfortable, and, most importantly for the astute runner, highly affordable.
You can grab the H2 Pro directly from the CYCPLUS website using the link below. If you use my code at checkout for an extra discount!
This is an affiliate link, so I will earn a tiny commission if you use it, which would be appreciated because I make no money from this blog currently and have to pay monthly hosting fees.
- Product Link: CYCPLUS H2 Pro Heart Rate Monitor
- 5% Discount Code: TFR
Joseph Nunn: An avid trail runner based in Hobart, Tasmania. He loves getting out for big days on the trails with mates or racing against them.
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