ECG Heart Rate Calculator
Professional tool for medical diagnostics and rhythm analysis
Most accurate for regular rhythms (1500 / squares)
Quick estimate for regular rhythms (300 / squares)
Count QRS complexes in a 30-large-square section (6 seconds)
How to Calculate Heart Rate from an ECG
Electrocardiogram (ECG) paper standardly runs at a speed of 25 mm/sec. This means that time can be measured by the distance on the grid. To accurately calculate the heart rate, you must first identify the R-waves (the sharp peaks) and determine if the rhythm is regular or irregular.
1. The 1500 Method (Small Squares)
This is the most precise method for regular rhythms. Since there are 1,500 small squares in one minute (60 seconds / 0.04 seconds per small square), you divide 1,500 by the number of small squares between two consecutive R-waves.
- Formula: 1500 / (Number of Small Squares)
- Example: If there are 20 small squares between R-waves, 1500 / 20 = 75 BPM.
2. The 300 Method (Large Squares)
Used for a quick bedside estimation. There are 300 large squares in one minute. Divide 300 by the number of large squares between two R-waves.
- Formula: 300 / (Number of Large Squares)
- Sequence: 300, 150, 100, 75, 60, 50 (if R-waves fall exactly on large square lines).
3. The 6-Second Method
Essential for irregular rhythms like Atrial Fibrillation. Count the number of QRS complexes in a 6-second strip (30 large squares) and multiply by 10.
- Formula: (Number of QRS Complexes) x 10
- Example: 9 complexes in 6 seconds = 90 BPM.
Normal Heart Rate Ranges
| Category | Heart Rate (BPM) |
|---|---|
| Bradycardia | Less than 60 |
| Normal | 60 – 100 |
| Tachycardia | Greater than 100 |