HeartLab vs KardiaMobile: Complete ECG App Comparison
KardiaMobile requires $69-199 extra hardware. HeartLab works with your existing Apple Watch. Compare cost, features, arrhythmia detection, and privacy.
Feature Comparison
KardiaMobile by AliveCor is a dedicated ECG hardware device ($69 for 1-lead, $149-199 for 6-lead) that pairs with a smartphone app. HeartLab is a software-only solution that works with your existing Apple Watch. Both offer arrhythmia detection, but they differ significantly in hardware cost, portability, HRV depth, and privacy approach.
| Feature | HeartLab | KardiaMobile |
|---|---|---|
| AFib Detection | ✓ | ✓ |
| PVC Detection | ✓ | KardiaCare only |
| PAC Detection | ✓ | ✗ |
| Bigeminy/Trigeminy | ✓ | ✗ |
| HRV Metrics | 12+ | Basic |
| Poincaré Plot | ✓ | ✗ |
| AI Assistant | ✓ | ✗ |
| PDF Reports | ✓ | ✓ |
| On-Device Processing | ✓ | ✗ |
| Extra Hardware | None ($0) | $69–$199 |
| 6-Lead ECG | ✗ | KardiaMobile 6L |
| Cardiac Score | ✓ | ✗ |
| Languages | 16 | 10+ |
| Base Price | Free | $9.99/mo (KardiaCare) |
| ECG Trends | ✓ | ✓ |
Why Choose HeartLab
HeartLab requires zero extra hardware. If you already own an Apple Watch, HeartLab provides comprehensive ECG analysis at no additional hardware cost. HeartLab detects PVCs, PACs, bigeminy, and trigeminy in every recording, while KardiaMobile requires the premium KardiaCare subscription ($9.99/mo) just for PVC detection.
HeartLab provides 12+ HRV metrics, Poincaré plots, cardiac scoring, and an AI assistant. All processing happens on-device, while KardiaMobile sends data to cloud servers. The total cost difference is significant: HeartLab is free to start vs. $69-199 hardware + $9.99/mo subscription for KardiaCare.
Why Choose KardiaMobile
KardiaMobile offers 6-lead ECG recording. The KardiaMobile 6L model can record 6 ECG leads, providing significantly more diagnostic information than any single-lead recording (Apple Watch or KardiaMobile 1-lead). This can be valuable for detecting certain cardiac conditions that require multi-lead analysis.
KardiaMobile is FDA-cleared for AFib and certain arrhythmia detections. It does not require an Apple Watch, working with any smartphone. For users who want the most detailed ECG recording possible without visiting a clinic, the 6-lead option is unique in the consumer market.
FAQ
Do I need extra hardware for HeartLab?
No. HeartLab works with the ECG sensor already built into your Apple Watch (Series 4 or later). KardiaMobile requires purchasing a separate device ($69-$199).
Can KardiaMobile detect PVCs?
Only with the premium KardiaCare subscription ($9.99/month). HeartLab detects PVCs, PACs, bigeminy, and trigeminy in every recording, including the free tier.
Is a 6-lead ECG better than single-lead?
A 6-lead ECG provides more diagnostic information and can detect conditions that single-lead recordings cannot. However, for common arrhythmias like AFib, PVCs, and PACs, single-lead analysis is clinically effective.
Which app processes data on-device?
HeartLab processes everything on your iPhone. KardiaMobile sends ECG data to AliveCor's cloud servers for analysis.
What is the total cost comparison?
HeartLab: $0 hardware + free tier available. KardiaMobile: $69-$199 hardware + $9.99/month for KardiaCare (PVC detection, PDF reports). Over one year, KardiaMobile costs $189-$319+ vs HeartLab's $0 to start.
Information accurate as of February 2026. Features and pricing may change. Check respective app stores for the latest details. HeartLab is not a medical device and does not replace professional medical advice.
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