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Understanding Tonometers

A tonometer measures intraocular pressure (IOP). Different types serve different purposes. Learn which one is right for at-home glaucoma monitoring.

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Types of Tonometers

Each type has advantages and limitations. Here's how they compare.

Goldmann Applanation Tonometer

Office Only

The clinical gold standard. Uses a small probe to flatten (applanate) the cornea while measuring resistance. Requires numbing drops and a slit lamp. Very accurate but office-only.

Air Puff (Non-Contact) Tonometer

Office Only

Blows a quick puff of air at your eye and measures the corneal response. No contact with the eye, but can be startling. Common in optometry offices for screening.

Rebound Tonometer (iCare)

Office & Home

Uses a lightweight probe that gently bounces off the cornea. No numbing drops or air puffs needed. Fast, comfortable, and accurate. The iCare HOME2 is FDA-cleared for home use.

How They Compare

A quick comparison of the most common tonometry methods.

Feature	Goldmann	Air Puff
No Numbing Drops	×
Home Use	×	×
Comfortable	×	×
Accurate
Position-Independent	×	×
Multiple Daily Readings	×	×

Why the HOME2 is Ideal for Home Monitoring

The iCare HOME2 rebound tonometer is specifically designed for patient self-measurement. It combines clinical accuracy with ease of use, making frequent home monitoring practical and comfortable.

No numbing drops required — measure anytime, anywhere

Gentle rebound probe — barely noticeable contact

Automatic averaging — device calculates your IOP for you

Position-independent — measure sitting, lying down, or standing

App integration — data syncs for easy doctor reports

Real-time feedback — guides you to proper positioning

Single-use probes — hygienic and safe

FDA-cleared — clinically validated for accuracy

Clinical Validation

Multiple studies have shown that the iCare HOME2 correlates well with Goldmann applanation tonometry. It's FDA-cleared for home use and trusted by ophthalmologists worldwide.

How the HOME2 Works

Simple, gentle, and accurate — here's what happens during a measurement.

Position the Device

Hold the HOME2 steady, align it with your eye, and press the button. The device provides real-time feedback to help you position correctly.

The Probe Bounces

A lightweight probe gently bounces off your cornea. The speed of the rebound is used to calculate your IOP. You'll barely feel it.

Automatic Calculation

The device takes 6 measurements and automatically averages them. Your IOP reading appears on the screen and syncs to the app.

Ready to Try the HOME2?

Rent for 1-4 weeks to see how home monitoring fits your routine, or purchase a device outright with optional extended warranty plans.

Rent a HOME2 Purchase a HOME2