Title: Garmin HRM 200 vs HRM-Pro Plus: Which One Wins in 2023?
The world of top-notch sports watches has evolved significantly, with many models boasting advanced heart rate monitoring tech that often renders chest straps obsolete. Garmin, a prominent player in this field, recently launched the Garmin HRM 200, serving as a potential upgrade to the Garmin HRM-Dual. However, the year 2025 brings a tough decision: should you opt for the new Garmin HRM 200 or the HRM-Pro Plus, launched back in 2022?
While the HRM-Pro Plus generally takes the lead as a more feature-rich option, there are compelling reasons to sway towards the newer model.
Financial Flexibility with Garmin HRM 200
Garmin prices the HRM 200 attractively compared to the HRM-Pro Plus, priced $79.99 vs. $129.99, amounting to a considerable $50 difference. As prices for the HRM-Pro Plus have decreased over time, price disparity might not be as substantial as one may think.
Water Resistance: 3ATM vs. 5ATM
The HRM-Pro Plus offers superior water resistance, boasting a 5ATM rating, much like the HRM-Swim, designed specifically for swimming enthusiasts. In contrast, the Garmin HRM 200 features a 3ATM water resistance rating, which is not suitable for confident swimming due to inadequate onboard memory.
If your primary gym routine includes swimming, the HRM-Swim is worth considering, given its non-slip qualities that enhance pool-side maneuverability.
HRM 200: Easy Maintenance
The modular design of the HRM 200 offers an advantage in the domain of maintenance. By utilizing a handful of poppers that connect the strap and the central module, the HRM 200 allows users to wash the strap alongside their laundry. In contrast, the HRM-Pro Plus, advised against being placed in the washing machine, should be hand-washed after every seven sessions.
Lightweight and Streamlined
The HRM-Pro Plus is slightly lighter than the Garmin HRM 200, weighing 52g, whereas its counterpart weighs 63g when paired with the M-XL size strap. The compact form factor of the HRM-Pro Plus also contributes to less bulk, a significant consideration for some users. It is only 8.6mm thick, compared to the HRM 200's 11mm depth.
Diverse Features of the HRM-Pro Plus

The HRM-Pro Plus can operate as an autonomous wearable, thanks to its onboard storage that allows processing "up to 18 hours" of data. It can record steps as well but attracts attention for its ability to function with or without a connected device. Furthermore, when paired with a watch or bike computer, it can provide additional data, such as running dynamics, Ski Power, running pace, and distance.
In contrast, the HRM 200 is focused on connecting with Garmin's watches or bike computers to transmit heart rate and HRV (heart rate variability) data. It does offer a button and light, however, making it simple to check if the strap is running properly.
Advanced Security Transmission in HRM 200
The HRM 200 comes with a novel security feature, delivering heart rate data through an encrypted communication channel, essentially limiting access to the paired device. This represents the polar opposite of the traditional transmission methods for these devices (ANT+) which broadcast signals to any device with capability within its range.
Despite sharing the Bluetooth transmission support with its predecessor, the HRM 200 remains distinct in its added layer of secure data transfer.
Anticipated End of HRM-Pro Plus
According to Garmin's website, the HRM-Pro Plus is expected to receive security updates until July 2024. However, there have been no major software updates since 2022. This raises questions about the future longevity of the HRM-Pro Plus. It is also suggested that Garmin considers this model as an end-of-life product in 2025.
Which Should You Choose?
If swimming plays a crucial role in your fitness routine, the HRM-Pro Plus is a more valuable option. Its inclusion of running dynamics is appealing, although this data is already offered by many of Garmin's higher-end smartwatches. There's also a case for holding off until Garmin potentially updates its HRM-Pro line later in the year should time allow.
It remains to be seen if the security/privacy feature of the cheaper HRM 200 will persist indefinitely. Conversely, the HRM-Pro Plus offers a robust platform for swimming and multisport activities.
In the realm of budget-conscious heart rate monitoring, the Garmin HRM 200 offers an appealing choice with its $79.99 price tag, significantly less than the HRM-Pro Plus at $129.99. For those looking for a heart rate strap compatible with their Garmin devices, the HRM 200, featuring a 3ATM water resistance rating, can be easily laundered using a washing machine, contrary to the HRM-Pro Plus, which requires hand washing.