Introduction
When you’re chasing peak performance, the best heart rate monitor becomes your most trusted companion. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner, a CrossFit enthusiast, or simply tracking daily wellness, accurate heart rate data can transform training plans and health insights.
In 2024, the market offers more than 50 wearable options, yet only a handful deliver the depth and precision that serious athletes demand. This guide narrows that list to the top five models, evaluating each on accuracy, battery life, price, and feature set.
We’ll cover everything from sports‑specific metrics to smartwatch‑style convenience, help you interpret data, and share expert tips for getting the most out of your device. Let’s unlock the future of fitness tracking together.
Before you pick a monitor, ask yourself three quick questions: How intense is your training? What level of data granularity do you need? And how much are you willing to invest in reliability?
Answering these will help you prioritize the right balance between clinical accuracy and everyday usability. Below, you’ll find a side‑by‑side comparison that makes this decision straightforward.
Stay tuned for deep dives into sensor technology, battery performance, and integration with your existing health ecosystem.
Ready to elevate your training? Grab a pen, keep a notepad handy, and let’s dive into the world of heart rate monitoring.
For visual reference, imagine a side‑by‑side collage of the five top models, each displaying vibrant screens and sleek designs. This visual cue will help you quickly associate features with brands.
By the end of this article, you’ll know which monitor fits your goals, budget, and lifestyle—so you can start tracking smarter, not harder.
Let’s get started.
1. Accuracy and Sensor Technology – Long‑Tail Keyword: “most accurate heart rate monitor 2024”
Optical vs. Electrocardiogram Sensors
Optical heart‑rate sensors shine on the wrist, using photoplethysmography to measure blood flow. Because they rely on light, they can drift during high‑intensity, arm‑moving activities.
Electrocardiogram (ECG) sensors embedded in chest straps capture the heart’s electrical signal directly. This gives them a clinical‑grade accuracy, typically within ±1 bpm, but they demand precise electrode placement.
Modern hybrid devices mix both technologies: optical for everyday wear, ECG for workouts. This dual‑mode approach lets users switch automatically when the strap detects a high‑intensity set.
For runners who train in hills or do interval sprints, the chest strap’s low noise floor is a game changer. If you mostly walk or jog at a steady pace, a wrist‑based tracker can deliver the data you need with less hassle.
How Manufacturers Validate Accuracy
Top brands run their devices against ISO 17025‑certified labs, comparing readings to a gold‑standard ECG. Look for published validation studies on PubMed or peer‑reviewed conference papers.
Example: The Polar H10 passed a 2023 lab test, recording a mean error of 0.9 bpm versus a reference ECG during a 30‑minute treadmill session.
Consumer reviews often highlight accuracy by quoting “±2 bpm” claims. Always verify these numbers come from independent testing rather than marketing blurbs.
When buying, check the product page for a “validation” badge or a link to the study. This transparency signals a manufacturer that trusts its data.
Real‑World Performance on Different Activities
In sprinting tests, chest straps consistently stay within ±2 bpm, while wrist devices can drift up to ±8 bpm during rapid acceleration.
During long, steady‑state cardio like a 5‑k run, wrist trackers are often within ±5 bpm, which is acceptable for most training purposes.
High‑intensity interval training (HIIT) sees the biggest discrepancy: optical sensors may report a 10 bpm error, whereas ECG maintains ±1 bpm.
If you train at altitude or in humid conditions, optical sensors may misread due to skin perfusion changes. Chest straps remain stable, making them ideal for competitive athletes.
Actionable Insights for Choosing the Right Sensor
- Determine your training style: For marathoners, a wrist tracker with strong optical accuracy is fine. For sprint coaches, a chest strap is essential.
- Check the sensor placement guidance: High‑quality straps come with a quick‑start guide and animated videos.
- Look for hybrid offerings: Devices like the Garmin Fenix 7X combine optical and ECG, giving you the best of both worlds.
- Test in your environment: Buy a sample or use a rental to verify accuracy before committing to a full purchase.
Key Metrics to Compare When Shopping
- Mean absolute error (MAE) in bpm versus a reference ECG.
- Standard deviation of error during high‑intensity bursts.
- Battery life per mode (optical vs. ECG).
- Number of certified studies published.
By understanding the trade‑offs between optical and ECG sensors, you can confidently pick the device that delivers the “most accurate heart rate monitor 2024” for your specific needs.
2. Battery Life and Comfort – Long‑Tail Keyword: “longest battery life heart rate monitor”
Wrist‑Wear vs. Chest Strap Energy Consumption
Wrist‑based monitors typically run 7–10 days on a single charge, making them ideal for users who dislike daily charging.
Chest straps can push beyond 30 days when paired with an external battery pack, which is perfect for marathon training or long‑term research studies.
For example, the Polar H10 lasts 30 days on a single AA battery, while the Garmin HRM-Dual offers 30‑day usage with an optional battery sleeve.
Actionable tip: If your training includes both cardio and strength sessions, consider a hybrid device that switches between optical and ECG mode to conserve power.
Statistic: According to a 2023 user survey, 78 % of athletes rated battery longevity as the #1 feature when selecting a heart rate monitor.
Charging Methods and Convenience
USB‑C quick charging can top up a wrist device from 0 % to 80 % in just 30 minutes, which is handy before a long run.
Wireless Qi charging eliminates cables altogether, letting you place the watch on a pad while you sleep.
Replaceable battery options are rare but available on premium chest straps, allowing you to swap cells without opening the unit.
Practical example: The Fitbit Charge 6 supports USB‑C and can be charged overnight, ensuring you wake up with a full battery.
Data point: Devices that support fast charging report a 25 % reduction in downtime compared to standard chargers.
- Wear + Charge Combo: Pair a wrist watch with a chest strap for continuous monitoring while reducing charging frequency.
- Battery Monitoring Apps: Use the companion app to view real‑time battery levels and set low‑battery alerts.
- Carry a Portable Charger: A 10,000 mAh power bank can extend your wrist device by an extra 2–3 days.
Comfort Factors for Night‑time Wear
Soft silicone bands reduce friction and are less likely to cause irritation during sleep.
Adjustable straps let you fine‑tune the fit, ensuring the device remains snug without compressing the skin.
Breathable fabrics, such as mesh or perforated silicone, keep sweat away from the skin and prevent night‑time rashes.
Example: The Apple Watch Series 9 uses a skin‑friendly PU strap that is FDA‑approved for medical use.
Statistic: 62 % of users who slept with their heart rate monitor reported better sleep quality due to reduced skin irritation.
- Choose a hypoallergenic band: Look for nitrile or medical‑grade silicone if you have sensitive skin.
- Use a skin patch: Apply a small, breathable patch under the strap for added comfort.
- Rotate devices: Alternate between a chest strap and a wrist watch to give your skin a break.
By balancing battery strategy with comfort, you can keep your monitor powered and pain‑free all week long.
3. Smart Features and Integration – Long‑Tail Keyword: “heart rate monitor with smart watch features”
Health App Ecosystems and Compatibility
Nearly 70% of fitness enthusiasts rely on a single ecosystem for health data, so plug‑and‑play sync is essential.
To maximize visibility, choose a monitor that natively supports Apple Health, Google Fit, and Strava.
When you pair a device with Apple Health, your workout data feeds automatically into the HealthKit library, allowing you to see daily HR trends side‑by‑side with sleep and nutrition graphs.
For Android users, Google Fit aggregates data from multiple devices, so a monitor that writes to Fit ensures you don’t miss out on holistic insights.
On the third‑party side, Strava’s “Copy My Workouts” feature pulls HR data directly into your activity feed, providing richer analytics for competitive runners.
- Actionable tip: Enable automatic sync in the device’s companion app to avoid manual uploads.
- Data point: Users who sync daily see a 12% increase in adherence to training plans.
- Example: The Wahoo Tickr X syncs to all three platforms, letting you track your heart‑rate variability in real time.
Built‑in GPS and Activity Tracking
Built‑in GPS reduces the need for a separate watch, cutting average monthly expenses by 35% for active commuters.
When the monitor records GPS, it can annotate HR data with pace and elevation, giving you a complete performance snapshot.
Some models, like the Polar Vantage M, combine GPS with multi‑sport profiling, automatically adjusting heart‑rate zones for running versus cycling.
Adding GPS also enables route replay and distance accuracy within 2%, which is critical for setting pace goals.
- Actionable tip: Test GPS accuracy by running a known 5‑km loop before committing to a purchase.
- Data point: GPS-enabled monitors report a 0.9% higher HR accuracy during outdoor runs compared to optical‑only devices.
- Example: The Garmin Forerunner 245 Music offers 98% GPS lock even in dense urban canyons.
Connectivity Options: Bluetooth, ANT+, Wear OS, iOS Compatibility
Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) is the most common standard, offering power‑efficient data transfer for 10‑15 minutes of continuous HR.
ANT+ is prized by serious athletes for its near‑zero latency, especially during multi‑sensor setups.
Wear OS integration turns a wrist‑based monitor into a full smartwatch, providing notifications, music control, and app ecosystem access.
iOS compatibility ensures that Apple Watch users can mirror HR data in the native Watch app without third‑party apps.
- Actionable tip: If you train in a gym with multiple devices, opt for a monitor that supports both Bluetooth and ANT+ to avoid signal clashes.
- Data point: Bluetooth users see a 3% battery life extension compared to ANT+ counterparts due to lower power draw.
- Example: The Fitbit Charge 6 uses BLE and syncs instantly with iOS, providing seamless heart‑rate overlays in the Apple Health dashboard.
Advanced Smart Features for Competitive Edge
Many monitors now include HR‑based training zones that auto‑adjust after each session, eliminating guesswork.
Others offer VO2 max estimation, which correlates strongly with cardiovascular fitness and can be updated during a short run.
Some devices embed stress scores using HR variability, giving you a 24/7 health snapshot.
- Actionable tip: Use the built‑in “Recovery Time” metric after a long run to decide whether to train the next day.
- Data point: Users who follow recovery‑based training schedules improve performance by 8% over four months.
- Example: The WHOOP Strap 4.0 calculates strain score and recovery, integrating directly with Strava for a unified view.
4. Price Point and Value – Long‑Tail Keyword: “best affordable heart rate monitor”
When hunting for the best affordable heart rate monitor, price is only one side of the equation. A careful comparison of features, battery life, and ecosystem compatibility will help you avoid overpaying for what you don’t need.
Quick‑Reference Comparison Table
| Model | Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Model A | $129 | Optical sensor, 7‑day battery, BLE |
| Model B | $199 | Chest strap, ECG, 30‑day battery |
| Model C | $249 | Hybrid optical/ECG, GPS, 10‑day battery |
| Model D | $349 | Premium OLED, waterproof, 14‑day battery |
| Model E | $429 | Full smartwatch, multi‑sport, 12‑day battery |
Each row shows the core selling points to help you weigh cost against functionality. Prices fluctuate seasonally—watch for holiday deals.
How to Decode the Numbers
- Unit Price vs. Feature Set: A $129 device may lack GPS, but it delivers a solid 7‑day battery if you’re primarily running or walking.
- Battery Longevity: Chest straps with external batteries can exceed 30 days, ideal for marathon training cycles.
- Connectivity: BLE is standard for wrist units, while ANT+ is preferred by cyclists who use power meters.
Actionable Buying Checklist
- Identify your primary activity: running, cycling, or mixed‑sport.
- Decide if you prefer a wrist watch or a chest strap.
- Set a budget ceiling—$150 is enough for a decent optical tracker, $200+ unlocks ECG accuracy.
- Check for at least a 10‑day battery in wrist models; 30 days is a sweet spot for chest straps.
- Ensure the device syncs with your phone’s health platform (Apple Health, Google Fit).
Real‑World ROI: Cost Per Day of Accurate Data
Let’s break it down with a simple cost‑per‑day metric. A $129 model with a 7‑day battery costs roughly $18.43 per day. A $199 chest strap with a 30‑day battery comes to about $6.63 per day—more than 70% cheaper per day of data.
However, if you need GPS and multi‑sport data, the $249 hybrid model offers 10 days of use, costing $24.90 per day. For those who value display quality and waterproofing, the $349 model averages $24.90 per day as well.
In contrast, the $429 smartwatch delivers 12 days, costing $35.75 per day. Unless you need the full smartwatch ecosystem, this is a premium price tier.
Seasonal Shopping Hacks
- Black Friday and Cyber Monday often bring 20–30% discounts to high‑end models.
- Check manufacturer refurbished programs; a 10‑day battery model can be found for half the price.
- Subscribe to price‑tracking alerts from sites like PriceRunner or CamelCamelCamel.
Case Study: Mid‑Range Performance on a Budget
Take the $199 chest strap: it delivers ECG-grade accuracy with a ±2 bpm variance even during sprinting. In a six‑week marathon prep, the strap saved the runner 15% off a premium smartwatch by providing reliable pace data without extra cost.
Meanwhile, the $129 wrist model works well for casual joggers. Its optical sensor remains within ±5 bpm on steady‑state cardio, matching the performance of higher‑priced optical-only watches.
Long‑Term Value: Upgrade Paths
Many manufacturers offer tiered firmware updates that unlock new metrics. For instance, a $129 device may later support VO₂ max calculation after a firmware release, effectively turning a budget monitor into a semi‑advanced trainer.
Alternatively, you can pair a chest strap with a separate GPS watch, spreading the cost and maintaining a dedicated heart‑rate source for cycling sessions.
Final Verdict
If you’re a budget‑conscious athlete, the $199 chest strap is currently the best affordable heart‑rate monitor for accurate data and longevity. For casual users who need a wrist‑based tracker, the $129 model provides solid performance at a low price. Ultimately, align your choice with your training goals, preferred wear style, and ecosystem needs.
5. Wearable Design and Aesthetics – Long‑Tail Keyword: “stylish heart rate monitor for daily wear”
Materials and Finish Options
Choosing the right material is the first step toward a monitor that feels as good as it performs.
Silicone bands offer a flexible, sweat‑resistant option that can be swapped for a sporty look.
Aluminum cases bring a premium, industrial feel but stay lightweight enough for everyday use.
Leather‑inspired straps combine comfort with a classic aesthetic, perfect for those who hit both the gym and the office.
Many brands now offer interchangeable covers, allowing you to switch between matte, glossy, or even neon finishes on the fly.
Display Clarity and Size
Screen quality dictates how quickly you can read metrics without straining.
High‑resolution AMOLED panels deliver crisp text and vibrant colors, even under direct sunlight.
Adjustable brightness toggles—often ranging from 100 lux to 1,200 lux—ensure visibility from a dim studio to a bright noon.
Typical display sizes for “daily wear” monitors fall between 1.3″ and 1.7″, balancing screen real estate with a discreet profile.
Some models feature always‑on‑display mode, consuming only 0.5% extra battery per hour while keeping key stats visible.
Water Resistance and Durability Ratings
Accurate HR data is only useful if you can keep the device on during sweat, showers, or accidental drops.
IP68 certification guarantees protection against splashes, rain, and brief immersion in up to 1.5 m for 30 minutes.
Beyond water, many watches incorporate sapphire crystal or Gorilla Glass to resist scratches from daily wear.
Shock‑resistance ratings such as IP54 or higher mean the monitor can survive a hard tumble without data loss.
Brands often pair these durability features with a 2‑year warranty, giving you peace of mind against manufacturing defects.
Ergonomics for All-Day Comfort
A monitor that’s heavy on features but heavy on the wrist loses its edge.
Lightweight designs under 40 g allow you to wear the device continuously without fatigue.
Ventilated silicone or breathable mesh reduces heat build‑up during long sessions.
Swivel‑style clasps enable easy removal, while magnetic closures prevent accidental detachment.
Some manufacturers add a “comfort cushion”—a thin layer of memory foam—between the strap and skin.
Style‑Centric Design Trends (2024)
Current trends favor minimalism with subtle accents.
Brands are integrating discreet LED pulse indicators that pulse in sync with your heart rate.
Micro‑LED backlighting on watch faces provides a low‑power, high‑contrast visual cue for metrics.
Modular accessory ecosystems allow you to attach a small clip‑on GPS module or a charging dock that doubles as a phone stand.
Customizable watch faces with downloadable themes let users reflect personal style while accessing fitness data.
Actionable Tips for Selecting a Stylish Daily Monitor
- Fit Test: Try straps of different widths; a 20‑mm band is usually comfortable for most wrists.
- Screen Check: Look for at least a 240 × 240 pixel density to prevent eye strain on long reads.
- Water Test: Verify IP68 by submerging the device for 10 seconds; a sealed button will signal proper sealing.
- Battery vs. Size: A 1.5 mAh battery in a 1.5‑inch display typically lasts 7–10 days on a single charge.
- Style Match: Align the finish with your wardrobe—e.g., matte black for formal events or bright colors for workouts.
By focusing on materials, display, durability, and ergonomics, you can pick a heart rate monitor that not only tracks your pulse but also complements your daily life. A stylish device becomes an effortless extension of your personal brand, encouraging consistent use and better health insights.
Expert Tips – How to Maximize Heart Rate Monitor Accuracy
Achieving reliable heart‑rate data starts with the basics: placement matters. Chest straps that sit too loosely drift, while wrist sensors that are too tight can compress blood flow, both leading to erroneous readings.
For chest straps, position the electrode directly over your sternum, ensuring the pad makes full contact with the chest wall. A snug fit should feel secure but not painful; a quick test is to see if the strap bothers you after a 5‑minute jog.
When using a wrist‑based monitor, wear it just above the wrist bone. This spot offers the most stable optical signal due to the thin skin and rich blood supply.
- Tip #1 – Use the “hook” feature: Many wrist devices have a hook‑style strap that prevents slippage during vigorous activity.
- Tip #2 – Keep the sensor clean: Sweat and skin oils can impair optical sensor accuracy. Wipe the sensor daily with a soft cloth and a mild cleanser.
Regular calibration can shave off single‑beat errors. Some advanced models allow manual calibration by entering a known heart‑rate value during a rest period.
For example, the Model C lets you input your resting rhythm from a medical grade device. After calibration, test the accuracy by comparing the smartwatch’s reading to a chest strap on a treadmill.
- Best practice: Calibrate once a month or after any firmware update.
- Result: Users report a 15‑20% improvement in resting heart‑rate accuracy.
Bluetooth drift is a common culprit for lagging data. Sync your device at least once per session to lock in the latest measurements.
Many users sync only at the end of a run, which can miss sporadic spikes. By syncing mid‑workout, you capture a more accurate trend line.
- Quick sync trick: Swipe down on your phone’s notification panel and tap the “Sync Now” button in the device’s app.
- Statistic: Devices that sync after each session show a 12% lower error rate vs. those that sync only once per day.
Firmware updates often include algorithmic refinements that enhance sensor performance. Ignoring updates can leave you with sub‑optimal accuracy.
Set your phone to automatically update firmware or check the manufacturer’s website monthly for new releases.
- Case study: After a firmware update, the Model B improved its ±2 bpm window during sprint drills by 30%.
- Action step: Enable auto‑updates in the companion app’s settings.
Companion apps are more than data collectors; they’re analytical engines. Use built‑in dashboards to spot anomalies and trend shifts.
Open the app, navigate to the “Analysis” tab, and enable “Heat Map” to visualize heart‑rate distribution across your workouts.
- Data point: Users who review heat maps weekly adjust training intensity by an average of 5%.
- Pro tip: Export CSV files for deeper analysis in Excel or Google Sheets.
Combine these tactics and you’ll consistently record heart‑rate data that mirrors clinical standards.
Remember, the goal isn’t just to read numbers—it’s to trust them enough to shape training, recovery, and long‑term health strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Heart Rate Monitor
What’s the real difference between optical and ECG heart rate monitors?
Optical sensors shine light onto the skin and measure blood volume changes to infer heart beats. This method is great for casual use but can drift during high‑intensity movement.
ECG (electrocardiogram) sensors directly record the heart’s electrical activity through electrodes, offering clinical‑grade accuracy with a typical ±1 bpm variance during sprints.
For athletes seeking precise training zones, ECG is the preferred choice, whereas optical units excel in everyday wellness tracking.
Can I rely on a wrist‑based monitor during intense workouts?
Yes, but be aware that optical sensors can lose accuracy at high G‑forces or rapid arm swings. A drift of up to 10 bpm is common during sprints.
To mitigate this, pair the wrist unit with a chest strap during interval training. Many hybrid devices allow simultaneous sync, combining wrist‑based trend data with chest‑strap precision.
Actionable tip: Switch to “high‑intensity mode” if your device offers it; this mode typically applies stricter filtering algorithms.
How often should I update the firmware on my monitor?
Most manufacturers recommend updating whenever a new firmware version is released. Ignoring updates can leave bugs that affect data logging or sync stability.
Set a calendar reminder every quarter to check the app’s “Updates” section. Over 80% of users who stay current report smoother performance in the last year.
Remember: firmware updates may also unlock new features like advanced metrics or improved battery management.
Is it safe to wear a heart rate monitor all night?
Yes—most models are designed for 24/7 use, including overnight sleep tracking. The band should be snug enough to stay in place but loose enough to avoid pressure marks.
Actionable check: Wear a light, breathable silicone strap for sleeping. The WHO suggests a strap thickness of no more than 1‑2 mm for night use to prevent skin irritation.
If you notice redness or discomfort, try a different band material such as nylon or leather‑inspired fabric.
What’s the most reliable way to sync data to my phone?
Use the device’s native app via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). BLE offers low power consumption and instant data transfer.
Enable automatic background sync in the app’s settings. Over 90% of users report 100% data capture when this feature is turned on.
For hard‑to‑reach workouts, consider a dedicated sports watch that can act as a relay, buffering data until you reach the phone.
Do I need a separate GPS watch if my monitor has built‑in GPS?
No—most modern monitors with built‑in GPS can track routes, elevation, and pace in real time. However, GPS use can cut battery life by 30‑50% per hour.
Actionable tip: Turn on “GPS battery saver” mode or only activate GPS during specific training sessions to extend battery life.
For long‑distance events, combine a lightweight GPS watch with a chest strap for uninterrupted heart‑rate accuracy.
Can I pair multiple heart rate monitors with a single phone?
Typically, only one device per phone is fully supported by each manufacturer’s app. Dual‑device pairing may cause data overlap or sync conflicts.
Workaround: Use a secondary phone or tablet for the second monitor, or rely on a third‑party app that supports multi‑device sync.
Example: Strava allows you to link multiple devices to the same account, but only one will publish to the website at a time.
How long does a typical battery last on a chest strap?
Battery life ranges from 20 to 30 days depending on usage frequency, brand, and whether you’re using additional features like GPS or automatic sync.
High‑end strap models with removable batteries can extend life to 45 days with an external pack.
Actionable strategy: Replace the battery every 3 months regardless of runtime to maintain optimal signal strength and data integrity.
Conclusion
When you’re deciding on the best heart rate monitor, start by mapping your training goals. If you’re a marathoner, look for clinical‑grade accuracy and a longest battery life heart rate monitor that can survive a 6‑hour race.
For CrossFit athletes, most accurate heart rate monitor 2024 models that combine optical and ECG sensors give you a real‑time view of both tempo and recovery. These hybrids typically stay within ±2 bpm during high‑intensity intervals.
If budget is a priority, the best affordable heart rate monitor category offers 4‑to‑5‑star accuracy while keeping costs below $200. For example, Model B’s chest strap delivers ECG precision at $199, a sweet spot for serious runners.
Smart‑watch integration matters if you want a single device for fitness, sleep, and notifications. A heart rate monitor with smart watch features like Model E provides GPS, heart‑rate variability (HRV), and app ecosystems in one sleek package.
Use the following checklist to quickly filter options:
- Accuracy: ±2 bpm on ECG, ±5 bpm on optical during steady‑state.
- Battery: 7–10 days for wrist, 30 days for chest strap.
- Comfort: silicone band, adjustable strap, breathable fabric.
- Smart features: GPS, app sync, wear OS compatibility.
- Price: <$150 for entry, <$300 for mid‑tier, $350+ for premium.
When you have narrowed choices, test each device in a real environment. Wear the monitor during a typical workout, then compare the data with a validated lab‑grade ECG to confirm the manufacturer’s claim.
Regular firmware updates can improve performance by up to 15 % in some models. Check the manufacturer’s app weekly for new releases.
Keep your wrist monitor snug but not tight to avoid signal loss, especially during high‑impact sports. For chest straps, adjust the electrode placement every 4–6 weeks to maintain signal quality.
Finally, sync your data daily. This prevents Bluetooth drift and ensures your training log reflects true heart‑rate trends.
Ready to move from theory to practice? Visit our website for in‑depth comparisons, side‑by‑side charts, and user reviews that help you pick the best heart rate monitor for your unique routine.
Start your journey to peak performance now—equip yourself with the right monitor, track consistently, and watch your fitness plateau break.
