For those looking to monitor their blood pressure at home, Omron is one of the most trusted brands. Omron makes a wide range of blood pressure monitors, but two of their most popular product lines are the 3 Series and the 5 Series. But what exactly is the difference between these two series and which one is right for you?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare and contrast the key features of the Omron 3 Series and 5 Series blood pressure monitors to help you decide which model best suits your needs and budget.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Omron 3 Series | Omron 5 Series |
| Technology | Oscillometric method | Fuzzy logic technology |
| Accuracy | Standard home use accuracy | Clinical-grade accuracy |
| Cuff | Standard arm cuff | Wider, contoured D-ring cuff |
| Memory | Stores last reading | Stores up to 200 readings |
| Averaging | No averaging function | Averages last 3 readings |
| Irregular Heartbeat Detection | No | Yes |
| Hypertension Indicator | No | Yes |
| Batteries | 4 AA batteries | 4 AA batteries |
| Price | $ | $$ |
Overview Of The Omron 3 Series
The Omron 3 Series blood pressure monitors are the more basic models in Omron’s lineup. This series includes popular models like the Omron 3, Omron 7, and Omron 9.
Key features of the 3 Series:
- Arm cuff style monitor
- Automatic inflation and deflation
- Detects irregular heartbeat
- Basic memory recall for last reading
- Easy one-touch operation
- Runs on 4 AA batteries
The 3 Series models are lightweight, portable, and very easy to use. They utilize Omron’s proven oscillometric method of blood pressure measurement and advanced pressure sensors to provide reliable results.
These monitors are designed for patient home use and occasional clinic use. While they do not have as many bells and whistles as the 5 Series, they provide accurate blood pressure readings at an affordable price point.
Overview Of The Omron 5 Series
The Omron 5 Series blood pressure monitors represent the more advanced home blood pressure monitoring models from Omron. This series includes popular models like the Omron 10, Omron 11, and Omron Platinum.
Key features of the 5 Series:
- Arm cuff style monitor
- Fuzzy logic technology for precision
- Irregular heartbeat detector
- Advanced averaging with 3 readings
- Memory stores up to 200 readings
- Wide, comfort fit D-ring cuff
- Runs on 4 AA batteries
The 5 Series models have several enhancements compared to the 3 Series. Most notably, they use fuzzy logic technology to analyze blood pressure readings and provide more precise results.
The advanced memory can store up to 200 readings for two users. The monitors also calculate an average of the last 3 readings taken, giving you a better long-term picture of your blood pressure.
Overall, the 5 Series is designed to provide clinical-grade accuracy in a home monitor.
Key Differences Between The Series
Now that we’ve highlighted the key features of each series, let’s directly compare some of the main differences:
- Accuracy: The 5 Series uses fuzzy logic technology to provide more precise readings than the basic oscillometric method used in the 3 Series.
- Memory: The 3 Series only stores your last reading while the 5 Series has memory for up to 200 readings.
- Averaging: The 5 Series calculates an average of your last 3 readings while the 3 Series just displays your most recent result.
- Cuff: The 5 Series uses a wider, contoured D-ring cuff for added comfort.
- Special Features: The 5 Series includes advanced health indicators like irregular heartbeat detection that are not found on the 3 Series.
Overall, the 5 Series represents a noticeable step up in accuracy, memory, and special features compared to the more basic 3 Series models.
Also Read: Is Omron Series 7 Better Than Series 10 Blood Pressure Monitors?
Omron 3 Series Vs. 5 Series: Which Is Better?
So with all of these differences, which Omron series is better? Here’s a quick pros and cons comparison:
Omron 3 Series
Pros:
- Lower cost
- Simple one-touch operation
- Proven oscillometric blood pressure method
- Portable and lightweight
Cons:
- Less precise than 5 Series models
- No irregular heartbeat detection
- Only stores last reading
Omron 5 Series
Pros:
- Fuzzy logic provides clinical-grade accuracy
- Detects irregular heartbeats
- Memory stores 200 readings
- Averages last 3 readings
- Wider and more comfortable cuff
Cons:
- More expensive than 3 Series
- Slightly more complex to use
For most home users who just want quick, occasional blood pressure checks, the Omron 3 Series will be the best bet. The ease of use and affordable price make these models ideal for basic home monitoring.
However, for those who want to closely track their blood pressure over time and detect subtle changes, the advanced features of the 5 Series make it a worthwhile upgrade. The clinical-grade accuracy and expanded memory give you more insights into your long-term cardiovascular health.
It’s also worth noting that the 5 Series meets more clinical standards for accuracy than the 3 Series. So for those under a doctor’s care for hypertension, the 5 Series is recommended to make sure you’re getting precise, reliable readings.
Also watch this video about Omron 3 Series!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
For most home users, the 3 Series provides accurate blood pressure readings at an affordable price point. However, for those who require clinical-grade accuracy and want to closely track readings over time, the 5 Series would be considered the best choice.
Yes, all automated OMRON blood pressure monitors, including the 3 Series models, are FDA approved as medical devices. They adhere to protocols set by the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) as well as other global standards for accuracy.
Multiple clinical studies have validated the accuracy of the OMRON 5 Series monitors when used correctly. They meet international standards set by the AAMI, the British Hypertension Society, and the European Society of Hypertension.
The E5 is a specific model within the OMRON 5 Series of blood pressure monitors. It utilizes OMRON’s exclusive fuzzy logic technology to provide precision monitoring and has features like irregular heartbeat detection. The E5 model number simply denotes an upper mid-range monitor within the 5 Series lineup.
Conclusion
When it comes to home blood pressure monitoring, both the Omron 3 Series and 5 Series represent quality options with proven accuracy. The 3 Series is ideal for basic monitoring at an affordable price point.
But for users who require advanced features like irregular heartbeat detection and clinical-grade precision, upgrading to the 5 Series is worth the investment. Just be sure to compare models closely and select the monitor that best fits your needs and budget.