Polar RS300X

Dont bother! – This is my 4th HR monitor. The previous Polar M22 and Garmin 308 are far superior in accuracy and reliability in detecting a sensible HR. The GPS function measures distance, max speed, but not how it relates to HR. When paused, the stop watch only shows HR. It got momentarily wet in shower yesterday and has failed. What a relief - can now junk it with clear conscience! It's black. unreliable HR detection, default display, GPS

Polar RS300x – I upgraded to this so that I could train using the calories burnt. In the first week one of the buttons came off whilst swimming. It has never been reliable in monitoring heartrate often jumping from 205bpm to 0 during a workout. Overall I have been very unsatisfied with this product, much preferred the F1. Features - countdown to events, good motivation. unreliable.

Good – Considering the features it's got in comparison with other polars, it's pretty good value for money (especially if bought with a discount). If you want the foot pod or GPS (measure speed & distance) buy the G1 or SD package to save money. Otherwise, monitor is pretty good by itself and obviously cheaper too. Designed in Finland / Made in China. - User friendly (didn't need to refer to the manual on how to use it - it's my 1st HRM). - editable exercise programs and ability to add new exercises, with a maximum of 3 HR zones. - editable sports zones. - 2 year international warranty (must be bought at an authorised dealer [not auction sites, even if bought at a "buy it now" option]). - compatible with the gym equipment I use, making it very easy to monitor my heart rate. - have a standby/sleep function (I'm assuming to save power as the display disappears). - calorie calculation. - lap feature. - strap feels weird, borderline irritating until you get used to it (I notice it less as I do my workout) - haven't tried any thing else though to compare it with. - strap seems to slide down my body while running (but probably have it too high/loose anyway) until it settles in place. - plasticy feel. - pricey if you want PC connectivity to upload workout summaries to your computer (Should have been included in the package in my opinion) + other add ons (i.e. GPS and/or foot pod). - predicted HR is the same as the age based Max HR (maybe I have to perform a few more fitness test?), but not really an issue for me as I know my max HR, which is 2 beats off my age based HR, which is what is being predicted (coincidence perhaps?).