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Basis B1 Review | 171 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£130
  • Form factor: watch
  • Battery life: 5 days
  • Screen size: N/A inch

Basis B1 review. Compare 171 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among fitness trackers and if it is worth buying.

6.4

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the fitness tracker's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best fitness trackers on the market.

Score components:

80.0%

6.4

Technical Score

20.0%

?

User score

Good
6.4

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the fitness tracker's technical performance, covering eight key areas: health tracking, sports features, connectivity, display, battery, smart features, design, and app support.

When it matters: When you want to compare fitness trackers based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

20.0%

7.8

Sports & Navigation

20.0%

4.0

Battery

18.0%

7.4

Health

18.0%

6.9

Display

8.0%

3.7

Smart Features

8.0%

7.8

App & Wellness

4.0%

8.3

Connectivity

4.0%

6.2

Design & Durability

Good
?

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the fitness tracker.

When it matters: When you want to know how a fitness tracker performs in daily use and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

?

User reviews

30.0%

?

Popularity

  • 5.3
    Swimming

    Score components:

    28.0%

    9.0

    ATM rating

    24.0%

    4.0

    Open-water swim mode

    18.0%

    1.2

    Waterproof depth rating

    15.0%

    9.0

    GPS

    15.0%

    2.0

    Battery life

  • 4.0
    Kids

    Score components:

    30.0%

    2.0

    Battery life

    25.0%

    2.6

    Weight

    20.0%

    9.0

    ATM rating

    15.0%

    0.0

    Screen size

    10.0%

    9.8

    Price

  • No image
No image

Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £130

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Basis B1 is a comprehensive fitness tracker featuring a robust seven-sensor suite that includes an optical heart rate monitor, perspiration and skin temperature sensors, and a 3D accelerometer. Its primary characteristics include automatic activity detection (Body IQ) for walking, running, and cycling, along with advanced sleep analysis that tracks REM, deep, and light sleep cycles. The device stands out with its 24/7 continuous heart rate monitoring and a high-resolution, transreflective, backlit LCD display that remains always-on. Key pros include highly detailed biometric data, effective habit-based motivational software, and broad compatibility with both Android and iOS via Bluetooth. However, notable cons include its relatively bulky watch-style design, a mediocre battery life of approximately 4 days, and a proprietary charging cable.

Technical Specifications of Basis B1

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the fitness tracker's technical performance, covering eight key areas: health tracking, sports features, connectivity, display, battery, smart features, design, and app support.

When it matters: When you want to compare fitness trackers based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

20.0%

?

Sports & Navigation

20.0%

?

Battery

18.0%

?

Health

18.0%

?

Display

8.0%

?

Smart Features

8.0%

?

App & Wellness

4.0%

?

Connectivity

4.0%

?

Design & Durability

6.4
Basis B1 has a technical score of 6.42 points, which is lower than 75.6% of fitness trackers.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the fitness tracker.

When it matters: When you want to know how a fitness tracker performs in daily use and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

0.0

User reviews

30.0%

1.0

Popularity

?
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the fitness tracker.
When it matters: When you prefer to buy a product chosen and reviewed by many other consumers.
1.0
Basis B1 has a popularity of 1 points, which is lower than 58.2% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the fitness tracker's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a fitness tracker with a good balance between quality and price.

Score components:

60.0%

6.4

Overall score

40.0%

9.8

Price

7.4
Basis B1 has a quality-to-price ratio of 7.4 points, which is lower than 80.3% of products in this category.
Heart rate monitor
What it is: Sensor that measures heart rate in real time.
When it matters: When you care about live heart-rate feedback during training or resting trends outside of workouts.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Basis B1 supports heart rate monitoring. 40.2% of fitness trackers support heart rate monitoring.
Resting heart rate
What it is: Measures heart rate while resting.
When it matters: When deeper insight into sleep quality, recovery, or overall readiness matters more than raw numbers alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Basis B1 supports Resting heart rate. 52% of fitness trackers support Resting heart rate.
Tracks resting heart rate.
Fast/slow heart rate alerts
What it is: Alerts for heart rates that are too fast or too slow.
When it matters: When you want the tracker to warn you about unusual changes instead of only logging them.

Importance: LOW

no
Basis B1 does not support high and low heart rate alerts. 33.7% of fitness trackers support high and low heart rate alerts.
Irregular heart rate alerts
What it is: Warns of irregular or abnormal heart rhythms.
When it matters: When you want the tracker to warn you about unusual changes instead of only logging them.

Importance: LOW

no
Basis B1 does not support irregular heart rate alerts. 11.5% of fitness trackers support irregular heart rate alerts.
Blood oxygen sensor
What it is: Sensor that measures blood oxygen saturation.
When it matters: When blood oxygen readings are part of the health picture you want from the device instead of relying on heart rate and step count alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Basis B1 does not have a blood oxygen sensor. 26.1% of fitness trackers have a blood oxygen sensor.
Show more
GPS
What it is: Satellite navigation capability for positioning and tracking.
When it matters: When you train outdoors and want pace, distance, and route tracking without depending completely on your phone.

Importance: LOW

?
Satellite systems supported
What it is: States which satellite navigation systems the device can use for positioning.
When it matters: When you train outdoors and want stronger positioning, route guidance, and navigation independence from your phone.

Importance: LOW

no
Basis B1 supports no satellite systems which is less versatile than that of 12.2% of fitness trackers and the same as that of 87.8% of fitness trackers.
no satellite positioning support.
GNSS bands supported
What it is: Number and type of GNSS frequency bands supported.
When it matters: When you train outdoors and want stronger positioning, route guidance, and navigation independence from your phone.

Importance: LOW

no
Basis B1 does not support advanced GNSS bands. 8.9% of fitness trackers support advanced GNSS bands.
Galileo support
What it is: Supports Galileo satellite system.
When it matters: When you train outdoors and want stronger positioning, route guidance, and navigation independence from your phone.

Importance: LOW

no
Basis B1 does not support Galileo. 4.9% of fitness trackers support Galileo.
Acquires GPS faster
What it is: Shows whether the tracker includes features that help it lock onto satellite positioning more quickly at the start of an outdoor activity.
When it matters: When you train outdoors and want stronger positioning, route guidance, and navigation independence from your phone.

Importance: LOW

no
Basis B1 does not support faster GPS acquisition. 7.2% of fitness trackers support faster GPS acquisition.
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Notifications
What it is: Delivers smartphone notifications on the watch.
When it matters: When getting calls, messages, and app alerts on your wrist saves you from checking your phone constantly.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Basis B1 does not support notifications. 73% of fitness trackers support notifications.
Vibrating alerts
What it is: Provides vibration-based notifications and alerts.
When it matters: When staying reachable from your wrist helps you avoid checking your phone constantly.

Importance: LOW

no
Basis B1 does not support vibration alerts. 84.2% of fitness trackers support vibration alerts.
Call control
What it is: Allows control of phone calls from the device.
When it matters: When staying reachable from your wrist helps you avoid checking your phone constantly.

Importance: LOW

no
Basis B1 does not support call controls. 41.1% of fitness trackers support call controls.
Call answering
What it is: Allows answering calls directly from the device.
When it matters: When staying reachable from your wrist helps you avoid checking your phone constantly.

Importance: LOW

no
Basis B1 does not support call answering. 1% of fitness trackers support call answering.
Calendar sync
What it is: Syncs calendar events with the connected device.
When it matters: When staying reachable from your wrist helps you avoid checking your phone constantly.

Importance: LOW

no
Basis B1 does not support calendar sync. 19.9% of fitness trackers support calendar sync.
Show more
Activity reports
What it is: Generates summaries and insights from activity data.
When it matters: When you want the app to motivate you with goals, reports, coaching, or progress feedback over time.

Importance: LOW

yes
Basis B1 supports activity reports. 5.7% of fitness trackers support activity reports.
Goal setting
What it is: Allows setting personal fitness or activity goals.
When it matters: When you want the app to motivate you with goals, reports, coaching, or progress feedback over time.

Importance: LOW

yes
Basis B1 supports goal setting. 2.4% of fitness trackers support goal setting.
Supports habit-based goals.
Achievements
What it is: Rewards progress and completed milestones.
When it matters: When you want the app to motivate you with goals, reports, coaching, or progress feedback over time.

Importance: LOW

yes
Basis B1 supports achievements. 24.3% of fitness trackers support achievements.
Inactivity alerts
What it is: Alerts when the user has been inactive for too long.
When it matters: When account rules, app costs, exports, or software flexibility affect whether the ecosystem suits you long term.

Importance: LOW

no
Basis B1 does not support inactivity alerts. 76.9% of fitness trackers support inactivity alerts.
Coaching
What it is: Provides guided training and workout advice.
When it matters: When you want the app to motivate you with goals, reports, coaching, or progress feedback over time.

Importance: LOW

no
Basis B1 does not support coaching. 33% of fitness trackers support coaching.
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Bluetooth version
What it is: Version of Bluetooth supported by the device.
When it matters: When wireless stability, pairing quality, and long-term phone compatibility matter more than Bluetooth being a simple checkbox.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=5.0

2.1
Basis B1 supports Bluetooth 2.1 which is older than in 96% of fitness trackers and equal to that in 1% of fitness trackers.
Maximum Bluetooth range
What it is: States the maximum Bluetooth connection range supported under normal conditions.
When it matters: When compatibility with your phone, computer, accessories, or wireless setup affects how well the tracker fits into your ecosystem.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=10 m

10 m
Basis B1 offers a Bluetooth range of 10 m which is higher than that of 14.6% of fitness trackers and equal to that of 69.2% of fitness trackers.
NFC
What it is: Supports near-field communication for contactless features.
When it matters: When compatibility with your phone, computer, accessories, or wireless setup affects how well the tracker fits into your ecosystem.

Importance: LOW

no
Basis B1 does not have NFC. 10.1% of fitness trackers have NFC.
Wi-Fi connectivity
What it is: Connects to wireless internet networks.
When it matters: When the tracker should sync, update, or download data directly without always routing everything through the phone.

Importance: LOW

no
Basis B1 does not support Wi-Fi. 1.8% of fitness trackers support Wi-Fi.
Wi-Fi version
What it is: Version of Wi-Fi standard supported.
When it matters: When compatibility with your phone, computer, accessories, or wireless setup affects how well the tracker fits into your ecosystem.

Importance: LOW

no
Basis B1 does not support modern Wi-Fi. 1% of fitness trackers support modern Wi-Fi.
no Wi-Fi support.
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Battery life
What it is: Total time the battery lasts on a full charge.
When it matters: When the tracker needs to last through travel, sleep tracking, long workouts, or several days between charges.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >5 days

5 days
Basis B1 offers a battery life of 5 days which is shorter than that of 79.2% of fitness trackers and equal to that of 12.4% of fitness trackers.
source range 4-6 days.
Battery life with GPS on
What it is: Battery duration when GPS tracking is active.
When it matters: When you want fewer charging breaks during travel, longer workouts, sleep tracking, or continuous use.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=8 hours

N/A
Battery life in training mode
What it is: Battery duration during active training sessions.
When it matters: When you want fewer charging breaks during travel, longer workouts, sleep tracking, or continuous use.

Importance: LOW

?
Battery life in power-saving mode
What it is: Battery duration when using power-saving mode.
When it matters: When you want fewer charging breaks during travel, longer workouts, sleep tracking, or continuous use.

Importance: LOW

?
Battery capacity
What it is: Energy storage capacity of the battery.
When it matters: When you want rough battery context behind the runtime claim instead of trusting the advertised hours alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=100 mAh

190 mAh
Basis B1 has a battery capacity of 190 mAh which is higher than that of 74.7% of fitness trackers and equal to that of 2.8% of fitness trackers.
Show more
Display
What it is: Main interface showing information and metrics.
When it matters: When easier reading at a glance and better day-to-day screen comfort matter to you.

Importance: LOW

yes
Basis B1 has a display. 24.1% of fitness trackers have a display.
Screen size
What it is: Physical size of the device’s display measured diagonally.
When it matters: When easier reading at a glance and better day-to-day screen comfort matter to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A
Display type
What it is: Technology used for the screen, such as AMOLED or LCD.
When it matters: When display technology affects contrast, color quality, power efficiency, or how premium the screen feels.

Importance: MEDIUM

LCD
Basis B1 uses LCD display technology which is less advanced than that of 67.3% of fitness trackers and the same as that of 5.5% of fitness trackers.
Screen resolution
What it is: Total number of pixels displayed on the screen.
When it matters: When easier reading at a glance and better day-to-day screen comfort matter to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

?
Pixel density
What it is: Number of pixels per inch determining screen sharpness.
When it matters: When easier reading at a glance and better day-to-day screen comfort matter to you.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=280 ppi

?
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Form factor
What it is: Overall physical design and shape.
When it matters: When materials, shape, and build details affect comfort, durability, or how discreet the device feels.

Importance: LOW

watch
Hybrid design
What it is: Combines analog and digital display elements.
When it matters: When materials, shape, and build details affect comfort, durability, or how discreet the device feels.

Importance: LOW

no
Basis B1 does not support Hybrid design. 2.4% of fitness trackers support Hybrid design.
Designed for kids
What it is: Indicates whether the fitness tracker is explicitly designed for children, with child-focused sizing, branding, safety limits, or kid-oriented activity features.
When it matters: This matters when you want a tracker that is genuinely child-focused rather than just a smaller adult model.

Importance: LOW

no
Basis B1 is not designed for kids. 2.4% of fitness trackers are designed for kids.
No child-specific positioning found.
Replaceable watch band
What it is: Ability to replace the wristband with other styles.
When it matters: When strap comfort, fit, or the ability to swap bands matters for sport, style, or replacement.

Importance: LOW

yes
Basis B1 has a replaceable watch band. 24.4% of fitness trackers have a replaceable watch band.
Band width
What it is: Width of the strap where it connects to the watch.
When it matters: When strap comfort, fit, or the ability to swap bands matters for sport, style, or replacement.

Importance: LOW

22 mm
Show more

Basis B1 vs the average fitness tracker

  • Always-on display
    Basis B1 has an always-on display, while the average fitness tracker does not. 25.7% of fitness trackers have an always-on display.
    What it is: Screen remains visible continuously without turning off.
    When it matters: When you want to check time or key stats instantly without waking the screen first.

    Importance: LOW

    Basis B1 has an always-on display, while the average fitness tracker does not. 25.7% of fitness trackers have an always-on display.
  • Lower resting heart rate
    Basis B1 supports Resting heart rate, while the average fitness tracker does not. 48.2% of fitness trackers support Resting heart rate.
    Tracks resting heart rate.
    What it is: Measures heart rate while resting.
    When it matters: When deeper insight into sleep quality, recovery, or overall readiness matters more than raw numbers alone.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Basis B1 supports Resting heart rate, while the average fitness tracker does not. 48.2% of fitness trackers support Resting heart rate.
  • 72.7% larger battery capacity
    Basis B1 has a higher battery capacity than the average fitness tracker (190 mAh vs 110 mAh). The average fitness tracker has 110 mAh of battery capacity.
    What it is: Energy storage capacity of the battery.
    When it matters: When you want rough battery context behind the runtime claim instead of trusting the advertised hours alone.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=100 mAh

    Basis B1 has a higher battery capacity than the average fitness tracker (190 mAh vs 110 mAh). The average fitness tracker has 110 mAh of battery capacity.190 mAh vs 110 mAh
  • Built-in temperature sensor
    Basis B1 has a temperature sensor, while the average fitness tracker does not. 10.2% of fitness trackers have a temperature sensor.
    What it is: Sensor that detects skin or ambient temperature.
    When it matters: When you want the tracker to monitor this specific health metric instead of only basic activity data.

    Importance: LOW

    Basis B1 has a temperature sensor, while the average fitness tracker does not. 10.2% of fitness trackers have a temperature sensor.
  • Tracks skin temperature
    Basis B1 supports skin temperature tracking, while the average fitness tracker does not. 11.3% of fitness trackers support skin temperature tracking.
    Tracks skin temperature trends.
    What it is: Shows whether the tracker can follow changes in skin temperature over time instead of offering only spot measurements or no temperature tracking at all.
    When it matters: When temperature trends matter for wellness, recovery, cycle insight, or spotting changes over time.

    Importance: LOW

    Basis B1 supports skin temperature tracking, while the average fitness tracker does not. 11.3% of fitness trackers support skin temperature tracking.
  • Windows compatible
    Basis B1 is compatible with Windows, while the average fitness tracker is not. 22.3% of fitness trackers are compatible with Windows.
    Via Basis Sync.
    What it is: Compatible with Windows computers.
    When it matters: When compatibility with your phone, computer, accessories, or wireless setup affects how well the tracker fits into your ecosystem.

    Importance: LOW

    Basis B1 is compatible with Windows, while the average fitness tracker is not. 22.3% of fitness trackers are compatible with Windows.
  • Mac OS X compatible
    Basis B1 is compatible with Mac OS X, while the average fitness tracker is not. 27.5% of fitness trackers are compatible with Mac OS X.
    Via Basis Sync.
    What it is: Compatible with macOS devices.
    When it matters: When compatibility with your phone, computer, accessories, or wireless setup affects how well the tracker fits into your ecosystem.

    Importance: LOW

    Basis B1 is compatible with Mac OS X, while the average fitness tracker is not. 27.5% of fitness trackers are compatible with Mac OS X.
  • Sweat tracking
    Basis B1 supports sweat tracking, while the average fitness tracker does not. 7.7% of fitness trackers support sweat tracking.
    Tracks perspiration via galvanic skin response.
    What it is: Tracks perspiration levels during exercise.
    When it matters: When you want the tracker to monitor this specific health metric instead of only basic activity data.

    Importance: LOW

    Basis B1 supports sweat tracking, while the average fitness tracker does not. 7.7% of fitness trackers support sweat tracking.
  • Lower resting heart rate
    Basis B1 supports Resting heart rate, while the average fitness tracker does not. 48.2% of fitness trackers support Resting heart rate.
  • Built-in temperature sensor
    Basis B1 has a temperature sensor, while the average fitness tracker does not. 10.2% of fitness trackers have a temperature sensor.
  • Tracks skin temperature
    Basis B1 supports skin temperature tracking, while the average fitness tracker does not. 11.3% of fitness trackers support skin temperature tracking.
  • Sweat tracking
    Basis B1 supports sweat tracking, while the average fitness tracker does not. 7.7% of fitness trackers support sweat tracking.
  • EDA sensor
    Basis B1 has an EDA sensor, while the average fitness tracker does not. 6.6% of fitness trackers have an EDA sensor.
  • 72.7% larger battery capacity
    Basis B1 has a higher battery capacity than the average fitness tracker (190 mAh vs 110 mAh). The average fitness tracker has 110 mAh of battery capacity.
  • Always-on display
    Basis B1 has an always-on display, while the average fitness tracker does not. 25.7% of fitness trackers have an always-on display.
  • Windows compatible
    Basis B1 is compatible with Windows, while the average fitness tracker is not. 22.3% of fitness trackers are compatible with Windows.
  • Mac OS X compatible
    Basis B1 is compatible with Mac OS X, while the average fitness tracker is not. 27.5% of fitness trackers are compatible with Mac OS X.
  • 6.67x higher CPU speed
    Basis B1 has a higher CPU speed than the average fitness tracker (1 GHz vs 0.15 GHz). The average fitness tracker has 0.15 GHz of CPU speed.
  • 1 more physical buttons
    Basis B1 has a higher physical buttons than the average fitness tracker (1 vs 0). The average fitness tracker has 0 of physical buttons.
  • Tracks temperature
    Basis B1 supports temperature tracking, while the average fitness tracker does not. 12.9% of fitness trackers support temperature tracking.
  • Points-based system
    Basis B1 supports a points-based system, while the average fitness tracker does not. 39.1% of fitness trackers support a points-based system.

Total
Health
Battery
Display
Connectivity
Smart Features
App & Wellness
  • No pace measurement
    Basis B1 does not support pace measurement, while the average fitness tracker does. 61.3% of fitness trackers support pace measurement.
  • 5 days shorter battery life
    Basis B1 has a lower battery life than the average fitness tracker (5 days vs 10 days). The average fitness tracker has 10 days of battery life.
    source range 4-6 days.
  • 0.5 hours longer charging time
    Basis B1 has a higher charging time than the average fitness tracker (2 hours vs 1.5 hours). The average fitness tracker needs 1.5 hours to charge.
  • No battery level indicator
    Basis B1 does not have a battery level indicator, while the average fitness tracker does. 88.8% of fitness trackers have a battery level indicator.
  • Old Bluetooth version
    Basis B1 supports an older Bluetooth version than the average fitness tracker (2.1 vs 4.0). The average fitness tracker supports Bluetooth 4.0.
  • No notifications
    Basis B1 does not support notifications, while the average fitness tracker does. 72.6% of fitness trackers support notifications.
  • No silent alarm
    Basis B1 does not support a silent alarm, while the average fitness tracker does. 80.4% of fitness trackers support a silent alarm.
  • No vibrating alerts
    Basis B1 does not support vibration alerts, while the average fitness tracker does. 83.8% of fitness trackers support vibration alerts.
  • No stopwatch
    Basis B1 does not have a stopwatch, while the average fitness tracker does. 58.4% of fitness trackers have a stopwatch.
  • 49 m lower waterproof depth rating
    Basis B1 has a lower waterproof depth rating than the average fitness tracker (1 m vs 50 m). The average fitness tracker has a waterproof depth rating of 50 m.
  • 76% heavier
    Basis B1 is heavier than the average fitness tracker (44 g vs 25 g). The average fitness tracker weighs 25 g.
  • 6.2 mm thicker design
    Basis B1 is thicker than the average fitness tracker (17.2 mm vs 11 mm). The average fitness tracker has a thickness of 11 mm.
  • 3 older release date
    Basis B1 was released earlier than the average fitness tracker (2,013 vs 2,016). The average fitness tracker was released in 2,016.
  • No personalization options
    Basis B1 cannot be personalized, while the average fitness tracker can. 80% of fitness trackers can be personalized.
  • No inactivity alerts
    Basis B1 does not support inactivity alerts, while the average fitness tracker does. 76.5% of fitness trackers support inactivity alerts.
  • Not compatible with smart scales
    Basis B1 is not compatible with smart scales, while the average fitness tracker is. 67% of fitness trackers are compatible with smart scales.
  • No BMI tracking
    Basis B1 does not support BMI tracking, while the average fitness tracker does. 71% of fitness trackers support BMI tracking.
  • 5 days shorter battery life
    Basis B1 has a lower battery life than the average fitness tracker (5 days vs 10 days). The average fitness tracker has 10 days of battery life.
    source range 4-6 days.
    What it is: Total time the battery lasts on a full charge.
    When it matters: When the tracker needs to last through travel, sleep tracking, long workouts, or several days between charges.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >5 days

    Basis B1 has a lower battery life than the average fitness tracker (5 days vs 10 days). The average fitness tracker has 10 days of battery life.5 days vs 10 days
  • No pace measurement
    Basis B1 does not support pace measurement, while the average fitness tracker does. 61.3% of fitness trackers support pace measurement.
    What it is: Measures running or walking speed.
    When it matters: When you want the tracker to capture more workouts and training details with less manual effort.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Basis B1 does not support pace measurement, while the average fitness tracker does. 61.3% of fitness trackers support pace measurement.
  • No notifications
    Basis B1 does not support notifications, while the average fitness tracker does. 72.6% of fitness trackers support notifications.
    What it is: Delivers smartphone notifications on the watch.
    When it matters: When getting calls, messages, and app alerts on your wrist saves you from checking your phone constantly.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Basis B1 does not support notifications, while the average fitness tracker does. 72.6% of fitness trackers support notifications.
  • 0.5 hours longer charging time
    Basis B1 has a higher charging time than the average fitness tracker (2 hours vs 1.5 hours). The average fitness tracker needs 1.5 hours to charge.
    What it is: Time required for a full charge.
    When it matters: When short charging windows matter and you do not want the tracker off your wrist for too long.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Basis B1 has a higher charging time than the average fitness tracker (2 hours vs 1.5 hours). The average fitness tracker needs 1.5 hours to charge.2 hours vs 1.5 hours
  • 49 m lower waterproof depth rating
    Basis B1 has a lower waterproof depth rating than the average fitness tracker (1 m vs 50 m). The average fitness tracker has a waterproof depth rating of 50 m.
    What it is: Maximum depth the device can withstand underwater.
    When it matters: When you plan to swim, shower, dive, or use the tracker regularly around water.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=50 m

    Basis B1 has a lower waterproof depth rating than the average fitness tracker (1 m vs 50 m). The average fitness tracker has a waterproof depth rating of 50 m.1 m vs 50 m
  • No vibrating alerts
    Basis B1 does not support vibration alerts, while the average fitness tracker does. 83.8% of fitness trackers support vibration alerts.
    What it is: Provides vibration-based notifications and alerts.
    When it matters: When staying reachable from your wrist helps you avoid checking your phone constantly.

    Importance: LOW

    Basis B1 does not support vibration alerts, while the average fitness tracker does. 83.8% of fitness trackers support vibration alerts.
  • No silent alarm
    Basis B1 does not support a silent alarm, while the average fitness tracker does. 80.4% of fitness trackers support a silent alarm.
    What it is: Alarm that vibrates silently instead of sounding.
    When it matters: When you want more discreet or more context-aware alerts than a standard alarm gives you.

    Importance: LOW

    Basis B1 does not support a silent alarm, while the average fitness tracker does. 80.4% of fitness trackers support a silent alarm.
  • No battery level indicator
    Basis B1 does not have a battery level indicator, while the average fitness tracker does. 88.8% of fitness trackers have a battery level indicator.
    What it is: Shows remaining battery percentage.
    When it matters: When charging speed, charging method, or battery upkeep convenience matters to your routine.

    Importance: LOW

    Basis B1 does not have a battery level indicator, while the average fitness tracker does. 88.8% of fitness trackers have a battery level indicator.
Total
Overall
Sports & Navigation
Battery
Connectivity
Smart Features
Design & Durability
App & Wellness

Graphic comparison of Basis B1 and

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Third-party reviews

What customers like about Basis B1?

  • Advanced multi-sensor array including heart rate, skin temperature, and perspiration
  • Highly detailed and automatic sleep tracking (REM, deep, and light sleep)
  • Clever motivational 'Habits' gamification system that encourages behavioral changes
  • Solid battery life lasting 4–5 days on a single charge
  • Accurate activity monitoring for everyday walking and movement

What customers dislike about Basis B1?

  • Large, bulky, and masculine design that can be uncomfortable or difficult to wear with long sleeves
  • Heart rate monitor is largely inaccurate or unreliable during vigorous exercise
  • Poor screen visibility in bright light and a dim backlight
  • Lack of third-party app integration (e.g., no support for MyFitnessPal or RunKeeper)
  • Syncing issues and occasional glitches with the mobile application

Expert reviews

I
imedicalapps.com
21/01/2014
Basis B1 Band review, a wearable sensor that tracks many metrics

The Basis B1 Band is a highly advanced, retro-style digital watch that sets itself apart in the wearable fitness market by utilizing multiple sensors, including an optical blood flow monitor, a perspiration monitor, and a skin temperature sensor. Priced between $179 and $199, its greatest strengths lie in its exceptional, automated activity and sleep tracking features. Thanks to its...Read more

G
gizmodo.com
27/03/2013
Basis B1 Review: The Best Activity Tracker Despite One Critical Flaw

The Basis B1 is a watch-like activity tracker designed for 24/7 wear that distinguishes itself by using biometrics, such as heart rate, skin temperature, and perspiration levels, to analyze sleep patterns and caloric burn rather than relying on arbitrary algorithms. On the positive side, it tracks daily step counts with much greater accuracy than competing contemporary devices like...Read more

U
uk.pcmag.com
21/01/2014
Sleeping With the Basis B1 Band

The PCMag review by Jill Duffy evaluates the Advanced Sleep Analysis firmware update for the Basis B1 Band, a $199 activity-tracking wristwatch. This update leverages the device's multi-sensor array—which tracks movement, heart rate, and skin temperature—to automatically identify and break down true sleep cycles into deep, light, and REM sleep phases. The data is presented in the...Read more

L
livescience.com
09/01/2014
Basis B1: Fitness Tracker Review

The Live Science review of the Basis B1 fitness tracker rates it 6.8 out of 10, highlighting a unique, habit-based motivational system. Pros include an integrated screen, built-in heart-rate monitoring, and specialized data tracking that focuses on daily health goals. Live Science However, the review cites significant cons, including a bulky design and a lack of calorie intake...Read more

C
cnet.com
27/01/2014
Basis Science Basis B1 Band review: 24-7 fitness watch isn't small but motivates well

The Basis B1 Band ($199) is a highly capable, watch-style fitness tracker that stands out from competitors by offering an advanced, multi-sensor approach to wellness. Beyond standard step and calorie tracking, it features an optical heart rate monitor, skin temperature sensors, and perspiration tracking. These sensors allow the device to automatically log and deeply analyze sleep...Read more

T
theverge.com
12/02/2013
Basis B1 fitness band review: taking tracking far beyond calories and steps

The 2013 Verge review of the $199 Basis B1 band highlights its, advanced biometric capabilities, offering 24/7 heart rate, skin temperature, and perspiration monitoring, along with accurate, automatic sleep tracking. The device features a distinct retro-style design with touch-sensitive navigation. However, the B1 is criticized for being bulky and failing to accurately measure heart...Read more

D
dcrainmaker.com
25/07/2013
Basis B1 Watch In-Depth Review

The device features several notable advantages, particularly its highly accurate sleep detection, its ability to easily determine resting heart rate trends, and a step-counter that performs reliably when worn on the dominant wrist. Users also benefit from a solid 4 to 6-day battery life and the convenience of a strap-free design. Conversely, the watch suffers from major performance...Read more

G
gadfit.com
02/02/2014
Basis Band Review - Fitness Trackers Reviews for the Basis B1, published between February 2013 and March 2014, highlight its advanced 24/7 biometric t...

The GadFit review of the Basis Band frames the device less as a traditional fitness tracker and more as a highly advanced lifestyle tracker meant for data-driven users. Evaluated a year after its initial release, the band stands out for its unique biological sensor array housed at the back of the watch, which continuously tracks optical blood flow, perspiration, and skin temperature...Read more

S
shellypalmer.com
02/02/2014
Basis B1 Fitness Tracking Wristband: Shelly's Review

In this 2014 review, Shelly Palmer evaluates the Basis B1 fitness-tracking wristband, positioning it as a highly accurate step up from trackers like the Fitbit and Jawbone UP. The device excels in tracking a wide range of real-time metrics, providing instant on-screen access to step counts, estimated calories burned, motion time, and heart rate. Additionally, it offers exceptional...Read more

M
mediatum.ub.tum.de
13/10/2016
Fitness Trackers: Current State of Research and Technical Comparison

The dissertation explores the development and validation of "actinulin®," a medical activity monitoring platform designed to quantify physical activity and monitor gait quality in children and adolescents suffering from Infantile Cerebral Palsy (ICP). Developed in collaboration with several academic and clinical institutions, the system employs a single, non-obtrusive 3D...Read more

(Translated)Show original
F
fitnessmodern.de
03/08/2018
Optical Heart Rate Tracking: Everything You Ever Wanted to Know", "Optical Heart Rate Measurement: All You Need to Know

Summary of Optical Heart Rate Monitoring Optical heart rate monitoring (OHRM) utilizes Photoplethysmography (PPG) to track blood volume changes in blood vessels through LEDs and photodiode sensors, a technology that originally migrated from medical devices into consumer fitness trackers around 2013. The system operates by emitting light onto the skin—most commonly green light for...Read more

(Translated)Show original
E
es.scribd.com
21/06/2016
Doctoral Thesis on Arrhythmias and Cardiovascular Risk: Design, Control, and Research

This doctoral thesis evaluates Arrhythmial™, a mobile health application designed to screen for cardiac arrhythmias, specifically atrial fibrillation (AF), and monitor cardiovascular risk (CVR) by leveraging affordable, non-invasive commercial sports optical heart rate monitors like the MIO FUSE. Validated through a pilot study of 330 at-risk individuals, the app's primary strengths...Read more

(Translated)Show original
M
medium.com
03/11/2013
My Basis B1 band review - by Alfredo Octavio DC Rainmaker

The Basis B1 Band is a comprehensive, non-sports, 24/7 health tracker that excels at monitoring heart rate, skin temperature, perspiration, and activity, with a web dashboard offering detailed, valuable insights into daily health patterns. While the reviewer appreciated the data analysis, the device suffers from inconsistent sensor accuracy during high-intensity workouts and lacks...Read more

(Translated)Show original
D
dcrainmaker.com
25/07/2013
Basis B1 Watch In-Depth Review (Dutch commentary in community discussions)", "In-Depth Review of the Basis B1 Watch (Dutch commentary in community dis...

The Basis B1 fitness watch stands out as the first activity tracker to offer 24/7 continuous heart rate monitoring directly from the wrist without requiring a traditional chest strap. It features an internal accelerometer to count steps and unique sensors to track skin temperature and perspiration metrics, which are automatically synced alongside highly accurate sleep detection...Read more

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Video reviews

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