So actually the prices are affordable in recent years, it is small, looks quite sturdy and is accompanied (cover, PC software to analyze the recordings-if they are useful, see more low-, charging cable).
Especially it seems quickly capture a pulse if it is installed at your fingertips.
Car recall that the pulsed arterial oxygen saturation (or SpO2), well known as widely used, works by measuring the difference of light transmitted between a source and a sensor must detect a large and regular pulse.
So no good pulse signal = no reliable saturation, hence the interest in these devices draw beautiful curves.
Some caveats to all this:
1) On the one hand it is not considered, in medicine as in science in general, the simple fact that "it works". Scopes and other devices we use are recognized and proven brands and were chosen on services rendered and validated by studies. Beurer is a famous German brand and the brand's website indicates that this pulse oximeter has been validated, although there is no work available.
This can cause problems if it is used, as is indicated in cases of sleep apnea: do we can have confidence in the results?
2) On the other hand what is the benefit for an individual to have this equipment at home? Knowing saturation is useful in some cases but with a medical goal. Suppose you take your sat there now, or even after a hike at 3000m: you will have a result, fine, but what for?
The PC software will provide precisely the background to this unit measure and analyze your oximetry on 24 to warrant medical interest (and purchase). Frankly talking, knowing that there are many other solutions reimbursed by social security.
3) The single button to move through the menus is not practical but not insurmountable.
Finally remember that SpO2, besides being reliable only if it is properly installed and correlated with an ample and steady pulse, can be skewed by a barrier (eg nail polish, cream, some skins ... ), in case of cold vasoconstrictant peripheral vessels or in case of carbon monoxide poisoning.
It is against "normally lower" in smokers, COPD or heart disease in some.