The wearable space has been forming two groups of devices over the past few years. In one group the Moto 360, Apple Watch, and others attempt to create a new device which facilitates new interactions, and notifications on the wrist. The other group contains devices like Fitbit, Nike Fuel Band, Jawbone and others, and all of these devices are fitness focused.
The Microsoft Band stands apart because it spans both of these groups by containing the most sensors for fitness, as well as a touch screen to interact with notifications and set workout routines. The Microsoft Band can also do special tasks like pay for Starbucks and calculate V02 max, both of these tasks span totally different categories but both are supported by the Microsoft Band.
The second generation of the Microsoft Band was expected and renders were leaked before it was officially revealed. The differences between the Microsoft Band 1 and 2 are primarily look and feel, but the second generation did add a barometer bringing the total sensor count to 11. Microsoft has not listed the processor or memory of the new band on the product page, but it would be safe to assume the processor and memory are probably slightly improved.
| Microsoft Band | Microsoft Band 2 | |
| Screen size | 0.43”x1.3” (11 x 33mm) | 0.5”x1.26” (12.8 x 32mm) |
| Weight | 2.12 oz | Not listed |
| Memory | 64MB | Not listed |
| Processor | Arm Cortex M4 MCU | Not listed |
| Sensors | Optical heart rate sensor
3-axis accelerometer Gyrometer GPS Ambient light sensor Skin temperature sensor UV sensor Capacitive sensor Galvanic skin response |
Optical heart rate sensor
3-axis accelerometer Gyrometer GPS Ambient light sensor Skin temperature sensor UV sensor Capacitive sensor Galvanic skin response Barometer |
| Microphone | Yes | Yes |
| Vibration motor | Yes | Yes |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 4.0 LE | Bluetooth 4.0 LE |
| Physical Buttons | 2 | 2 |
| Battery | Two 100mAh rechargeable Lithium ion | Li-Polymer |
| Battery life (roughly) | 48hrs | 48hrs |
| Average charge time | 1.5hrs | 1.5hrs |
| Operating temperature range | 14°-104°F (-10°-40°C) | 14°-104°F (-10°-40°C) |
| Max operating altitude | 7.45 miles (12,000 m) | 3.03 miles (4,877m) |
| Water resistance | Sweat and Splash | Sweat and Splash |
| Price (Oct. 16th 2015) | $130 | $250 |
What do you think of the new Microsoft Band? Let us know in the comments if you think $120 extra is worth it for the new Microsoft Band 2.
