Google Pixel Watch over reading heart rate?

[FBWotcha]

I play Badminton for 2hrs every Tuesday. On my previous Fitbit Charge 2, a particular session would record typical average heart rate of ~120 bpm and max 155 to 160 bpm.

On switching to Pixel Watch, the device is recording an average 158bpm and a max 188 bpm, well over my theoretical 172 (220 minus 48).

It seems that the device is reading way too high.

Resting BPM seems to be the same though.

I also note that the app reports this 2hr sport session to have 222 zone minutes (216  in cardio/peak), which is clearly wrong.

Anyone else seeing issues with the heart monitor on the Pixel Watch, has anyone validated it's accuracy ?

Moderator edit: Subject for clarity.

[charleskn]

Check out the Pixel watch review by the Quantified Scientist: https://youtu.be/TVGk48jcdtg

From a quick glance, the watch seemed to have issues with outdoor cycling, which involves pressure and vibration at the wrist. I wonder if badminton is having a similar impact. To be fair, many fitness devices have some issue with this. Some more, and some less.

[FBWotcha]

Most of the issues he mentions are about under reporting. My concern is about over reporting.

It is interesting that the Fitbit ECG app reports a resting BPM which is consistently 3-5 bpm less than the watch reports. I have no other means to verify. But I will try the ECG app again during my next badminton session to see if it's roughly in line.

[charleskn]

Yes, what I am wondering is if the Fitbit is misreading signals from your wrist when you hit the shuttlecock with the racket, and adding that to your HR baseline. You could text this with some steady state cardio exercise (fast walking, jogging, cycling, etc.). 

In the moment, such as when using the ECP app, you can verify your HR manually. 

There isa whole algorithm I don't know that determines your resting HR. I don't pay too much attention since I can't wear my fitbit during my work day. Fitbit says my RHR is 45/46-ish, and if I measure my pulse while sitting at my desk, at work, it closer to (and sometimes below) 40 bpm.

[RodrigoMFitbit]

@charleskn Thanks for your input. Interesting video. It puts me in perspective. 

@FBWotcha Nice to see you again in the forums. Thanks for the details explanation. 

I will gladly help you with the heart rate reading with your Google Pixel Watch. I suggest you restart according to the instructions in the following article: Restart your watch - click here. I would also give the tips in the following article a try. How do I improve the accuracy of a heart-rate reading?. 

What @charleskn makes sense. The vibration affects the reading. I understand you used to wear the Charge 2 exactly as you are wearing your Pixel. However, they are built different physically so they fit different. The tips in the article above refer to the wear position. Give it a try!

Have a nice day!

[FBWotcha]

Yeah I'm right handed and wear the watch on my left wrist, so hitting the shuttle with the other arm.

Like I said, I can try verifying with the Fitbit ECG app. Manually may be tricky... I'm not sure I can count 158bpm xD I'll try !

I can get in the habit of rebooting the watch before a session.... And yes I am familiar with the correct position and tightness to wear it. 

[RodrigoMFitbit]

@FBWotcha Appreciate the swift reply. I figured you knew your way around Fitbit devices. Worth a try though. Thanks for working with us. 

If the issue persists, I suggest you contact Google Support. They will provide you with a proper resolution. 

Have a nice day!

[simoncbradley]

Hi, in the two weeks I've had my Pixel Watch I find that my average resting HR is up about 10 from my previous Garmin Venu readings. I used to average in the early 60's, and I'm now in the early 70's range. Anyone else noticed similar ? Ashamed to say I've done real exercise to measure it against yet!

[Emvee16]

Yes, same. My previous Fitbit had my resting heart rate at 57 to 59 most of the time. It's been climbing steadily now to 63 the last few days. Of course that stresses me out and probably makes it go higher. I've also noticed a lot more higher readings during the day during regular activity. I'd like to know if others are experiencing this. 

[Eartemijs]

Same problem seems to be lot higher then it actually is.