Accurate data, with a price and usability cost
Image: official product image from garmin.com
Is the Garmin HRM 600 good for ultrarunning?
Yes. The Garmin HRM 600 is a strong ultrarunning chest strap, with accurate, consistent readings and standalone activity recording for up to 24 hours. Its washable strap and Garmin running metrics add useful flexibility, though some advanced data needs a compatible Garmin watch. The premium price and rechargeable charging setup are drawbacks.
Key facts
| Category | Accessories |
|---|---|
| Release | Launched and on sale 15 May 2025 |
| Price | $169.99 / £149.99 |
| Key specs |
|
| Best for | Runners and multisport athletes who want accurate chest-based heart-rate data, Garmin running metrics or watch-free activity recording, and are willing to pay a premium. |
| Consensus score | 8.2 out of 10 |
What is the Garmin HRM 600?
The Garmin HRM 600 is a rechargeable chest heart-rate monitor released in May 2025. Its sensor module detaches from the strap, which can be machine-washed, and the monitor sends data to compatible devices over ANT+ or Bluetooth, with up to three simultaneous Bluetooth connections. It can also record activities without a watch and sync them to Garmin Connect. The M to XL strap with module weighs 61g; an XS to S option is available too. At $169.99 / £149.99, it sits at a premium price for a heart-rate strap.
How does it perform on ultras?
Reviewers at the5krunner, Cyclingnews and Wareable broadly praise the Garmin HRM 600 for accurate, consistent heart-rate readings, a secure fit and reliable connections; one also notes low latency compared with wrist-based sensors. Standalone recording for up to 24 hours can help when running without a watch, while running dynamics may appeal to Garmin users. Some advanced metrics require specific Garmin watches. Reports are not uniformly positive: one reviewer found resting HRV unreliable and experienced missing or incorrectly retrieved workouts. Battery life is rated at up to two months with one hour of daily use.
Who should buy the HRM 600?
The Garmin HRM 600 suits ultrarunners and multisport athletes who prioritise chest-based heart-rate data, want Garmin running metrics or value recording an activity without a watch. Its detachable, washable strap and multiple connection options add practical flexibility for regular training. However, the premium price, proprietary charging clip and less convenient charging compared with a coin-cell alternative are worth weighing up. Some reviewers also found Garmin Connect’s recording workflow awkward. Cyclists may find its additional running and swimming features less useful, so it is a better fit for runners than for every athlete.
What reviewers agree on
Strengths
- Accurate, consistent heart-rate readings with low latency
- Standalone activity recording can be useful without a watch
- Detachable, machine-washable strap
- ANT+ and multiple simultaneous Bluetooth connections
- Useful running dynamics and swimming features
Weaknesses
- Expensive for a heart-rate monitor
- Garmin Connect recording workflow and controls can be awkward
- One reviewer reported unreliable resting HRV readings and missing or incorrectly retrieved workouts
- Proprietary charging clip and shorter battery life than a coin-cell alternative
- Some advanced metrics require specific Garmin watches
Frequently asked questions
How does the Garmin HRM 600 fit?
Garmin offers two strap sizes: XS to S for a 60 to 85cm chest and M to XL for an 80 to 119cm chest. The M to XL strap and module together weigh 61g. Choose the size that covers your chest measurement; the two listed ranges overlap between 80 and 85cm.
How long does the Garmin HRM 600 battery last?
Garmin rates the rechargeable battery for up to two months when used for one hour per day. It can record up to 24 hours of activity without a watch. Charging uses a proprietary clip, which reviewers note is less convenient than replacing a coin-cell battery.
Is the HRM 600 better than a coin-cell chest strap?
The HRM 600 offers rechargeable power, standalone activity recording and a detachable, machine-washable strap. Its battery is rated for up to two months at one hour of daily use, but charging requires a proprietary clip. The available review data does not establish that it is more accurate than coin-cell alternatives.
Sources behind this review
How this review works: the consensus score of 8.2 out of 10 condenses the verdicts of the independent reviews and lab tests listed above, compiled by endurance coach Paul Forrest. Prices and specifications are those quoted by reviewers at the time of testing and may have changed.
Training for an ultra? See endurance coaching with Paul Forrest.
