Review on 💓 Polar FT7 Heart Rate Monitor with Power Systems, Exercise Training Watch in Black/Silver (92018) by Melissa Merkel

Actual score: 3.3 rounded up. Actual rating reflects my previous experience with Polar products and how this product compares. The rounding is done out of respect for those who have little or no experience with heart rate monitors. I've been training with Polar monitors for over a decade. This was my first purchase of the newly upgraded versions where you can replace the batteries yourself. So before this model I had about 6 Polar models. I've never had to completely replace a Polar, but I've always been able to update my models because the product is very well made. When the batteries on my two monitors were running out at the same time, I bought this one because I found it just as cheap and convenient to ship it via Prime and then send my two still working models back to Polar for a battery change and another recovery cycle, through which Polar skips all email messages. Some observations: 1) Although my settings are EXACTLY the same as my other two monitors, I see a reduction in calorie burn of about 30 percent. That's a big difference and a huge "Ah?". I just don't get it at all. It's not my fault, it's the way this monitor calculates the output and it's a lot less computational than any other monitor I've had. 2) Feels and looks a lot cheaper, and the E-Face isn't as stylish. 3) I don't like the chest strap. The small metal clasps are flimsy and the belt itself is very easy to unbuckle. Never becomes smooth again, even after wearing it for the first time, even with a good wash. So, for the price and comfort, everything is acceptable. But - at least with this particular product - Polar seems to have given way at some point to the cheap, single-use model of American consumption. I prefer my old models that have lasted many years. I only bought these models because they were modernized. Polar products used to be worn for a full decade. When I opened this model it looked and felt cheap which explains the price [when I bought it]. I will no longer buy this model. I lost or misplaced the transmitter and will probably send my older models to Polar for battery replacement. Then I'll take a look at the more upscale models Polar is currently making. I have not yet contacted Polar about the lack of calorie intake; But after years of learning and understanding the product and my training schedule, that 27 to 32 percent discrepancy is confusing to say the least. No, it's not age - I trained with the correct settings prior to purchasing this model, tuned this model to the exact settings and found a 27-32 percent difference. This model does not meet the Polar standards I expected. I wouldn't buy it again. For the price and ease of ordering, Revain is worth trying out if you're new to HRM training. However, for me and those with HRM experience, there are probably much better Polar options out there that are likely to spend more money.