Microsoft Band: Function Over Fashion to Great Results

Microsoft Band: Function Over Fashion to Great Results

Wearables are not going away. Every company on the face of the planet has either launched one or is in the process of developing one. Some companies have been taking their time, others jumped on the bandwagon and promptly fell off a few times before getting it right. Microsoft took its time and decided to one up all the other fitness bands out there by becoming a proper, scientific fitness band like no other.

microsoft-band-3

Looks

Let’s get this out of the way: the Microsoft Band won’t win any design contests. It’s function over form and doesn’t apologize for it. It’s a simple black band with a screen that only allows a single row of apps that you have to swipe through, there’s not much else to it. One important difference is the clasp; it actually contains a sensor so it’s a bit bulkier than a typical clasp but if you want fitness functionality, you’ll be thankful for it.

The Band does display some personality once the screen is turned on but it’s nowhere near as colorful or vibrant as any of the Android Wear devices. The color scheme is based on purple and black and doesn’t include any way to personalize it. For most serious fitness users, this is actually a good thing because you don’t get distracted by all the different options. You just put it on and go.

band-box

Features

So it’s not a looker, what makes the Band a viable wearable? Well, everything else. Microsoft has crammed it full of features. The first big feature is the universal capability, which is a surprise from Microsoft. Rather than requiring a Windows Phone, the Band will work with iOS, Android, and Windows. Even the companion app is designed so you can share your data with any other fitness app.

The Band also has a ton of sensors. It will track your sleep and heart rate but it also has a ultraviolet light sensor in case you might need sunscreen and it also has a galvanic skin sensor to measure stress. Another big addition is GPS; the Band is the first of its size to have it and that means you don’t need your phone with you when you go on a run. Once you get back, the Band syncs and displays your entire run on a map. All in all, this is a fitness band that does notifications and its one of the most well rounded fitness bands out there. If you want to get fit, the Band might just be for you!

Weston is our professional gadget reviewer. Nothing thrills him more than being able to get his hands on the latest and greatest in electronics.
Join the Discussion

You Might Also Like

Stay on top of your game with this luxury water-resistant briefcase

Stay on top of your game with this luxury water-resistant briefcase

Stay organized wherever work takes you with the xBriefcase water-resistant briefcase. With 19 smart pockets, drop protection, and a luxury-grade design, it protects your work essentials and keeps you looking professional. It’s important to choose the right briefcase. Yes, the..
The Century Jacket is the last jacket you ever need to buy

The Century Jacket is the last jacket you ever need to buy

Stop buying a new jacket every 1–2 years and get the LIVSN Designs Century Jacket. Designed to last 100 years, this sustainable jacket is wind-, water-, fire-, and abrasion-resistant and uses all natural materials. It’ll last you for life. Tired..
This emergency backup light keeps working even during blackouts

This emergency backup light keeps working even during blackouts

Stay safe during power outages with the Surge emergency backup bulb. This light keeps working during a blackout, helping you and your family avoid accidents and injuries. Imagine this—you’re at home eating dinner with your family when the power goes..
3 Ways fleet maintenance software saves you money

3 Ways fleet maintenance software saves you money

Before sinking money into any software for your business, you want to know if there will be a return on investment (ROI). That’s what you get with fleet maintenance software. Buying vehicles for your company’s needs takes a tangible investment...
The best affordable headphones for under $100

The best affordable headphones for under $100

Need good headphones but don’t want to spend half a month’s paycheck to get them? We hear you. And that’s why we’re diving deep into the world of affordable headphones for under $100. These headphones deliver mind-blowing sound and other..
Top energy-saving smart home gadgets to cut down on your bills this summer

Top energy-saving smart home gadgets to cut down on your bills this summer

Summer is just around the corner. And so are the bills that come from cooling your home and keeping your plants watered. But you know that the best way to deal with summer energy costs is a little advanced prep...