Includes all The KardiaMobile devices by AliveCor are portable ECG (electrocardiogram) monitors that record electrical activity of the heart.
- KardiaMobile (Single-lead ECG)
- KardiaMobile 6L (Six-lead ECG)
- KardiaMobile Card
Here’s when you’d use one over the other:
Use KardiaMobile (Single-lead) if:
- You’re primarily monitoring for atrial fibrillation (AFib), bradycardia (below 60 bpm), or tachycardia (above 100 bpm).
- You’re a consumer or patient seeking a simple, cost-effective option
- You need a device that works well on the go, e.g., travelling, daily use
Advantages:
- Very portable (credit card size)
- Fast, 30-second ECG
- Easy to use
- Ideal for screening rhythm irregularities
Use KardiaMobile 6L if:
- You’re monitoring for atrial fibrillation (AFib), bradycardia (below 60 bpm), or tachycardia (above 100 bpm) or you need a more comprehensive ECG, including axis determination
- You’re monitoring for QT prolongation, myocardial ischemia, or bundle branch blocks
- You are wanting extra information to help your doctor or cardiologist
- You require a more detailed view of cardiac function beyond rhythm
Advantages (includes all Single-Lead features, plus):
- You want a basic, quick heart rhythm check (Lead I only)
- Can be used as a Single-Lead or a 6-Lead
- You’re primarily monitoring for atrial fibrillation (AFib), bradycardia (below 60 bpm), or tachycardia (above 100 bpm).
- Records Leads I, II, III, aVL, aVR, and aVF
- Provides 3 frontal plane vectors — more useful for diagnosing structural heart disease
- Can aid in medication monitoring (e.g., QT interval on certain psych or cardiac meds)
Use KardiaMobile Card if:
- You’re primarily monitoring for atrial fibrillation (AFib), bradycardia (below 60 bpm), or tachycardia (above 100 bpm).
- You want the most portable, durable option (wallet-sized, waterproof, and built to go anywhere).
- You prefer a simple, single-lead ECG device with easy Bluetooth connection.
- You need a device that fits seamlessly into daily life, travel, work, or active lifestyles.
- You want a long-lasting device (battery-free, designed for years of use)
Advantages (includes all Single-Lead features, plus):
- Ultra-portable (credit-card size; fits in any wallet)Records a fast, 30-second medical-grade Single-Lead ECG
- Durable and water-resistant
- Battery-free design
- Ideal for quick rhythm checks anytime, anywhere
- Excellent cost-effective option
Clinical Example Comparison:
| Scenario | Best Device |
|---|---|
| Suspected AFib in a patient with palpitations | Single-lead/KardiaMobile Card |
| Monitoring QTc in a patient on antipsychotics | 6-lead |
| General rhythm check before exercise | Single-lead/KardiaMobile Card |
| Evaluating chest discomfort in someone with cardiac history | 6-lead |
| Ongoing monitoring under cardiologist review | 6-lead |
Final Tip:
- If you’re unsure and cost is not a major factor, the KardiaMobile 6L provides more information and is more suitable for clinical integration.
- However, for everyday consumer use focused on AFib detection, single-lead is often sufficient