Microsoft Band Review | 171 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£180
  • Avg. price in US: ~$200
  • Form factor: wristband
  • Battery life: 2 days
  • Screen size: 1.4 inch

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

7.4

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%

7.3

Technical Score

20.0%

8.1

User score

Very good
7.3

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%

8.5

Sports & Navigation

20.0%

3.9

Battery

18.0%

7.8

Health

18.0%

8.1

Display

8.0%

7.4

Smart Features

8.0%

9.5

App & Wellness

4.0%

8.4

Connectivity

4.0%

6.5

Design & Durability

Very good
8.1

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%

7.3

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
3.6
(160)
amazon
3.7
(91)

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

Excellent
  • 6.8
    Swimming

    Score components:

    28.0%

    9.0

    ATM rating

    24.0%

    4.0

    Open-water swim mode

    18.0%

    9.0

    Waterproof depth rating

    15.0%

    10

    GPS

    15.0%

    1.0

    Battery life

  • 4.7
    Kids

    Score components:

    30.0%

    1.0

    Battery life

    25.0%

    1.0

    Weight

    20.0%

    9.0

    ATM rating

    15.0%

    9.0

    Screen size

    10.0%

    9.6

    Price

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Best prices in UK

Best rankings

?

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

Verdict

The Microsoft Band (and its successor, Band 2) is a sensor-dense fitness wearable featuring a 1.4-inch capacitive touch display (320x106 TFT on the original, 320x128 curved AMOLED on Band 2) and up to 11 sensors including built-in GPS, an optical heart rate monitor, UV sensor, and a barometer. Its main characteristics include cross-platform compatibility with Windows, iOS, and Android, and the ability to provide 'Guided Workouts' directly on the wrist. Key pros are its comprehensive data tracking, reliable notification system, and integrated GPS that allows for phone-free running. However, notable cons include a bulky and often uncomfortable rigid design, lack of full waterproofing for swimming, and relatively short battery life (approximately 48 hours or 5 hours with active GPS).

Technical Specifications of Microsoft Band

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%

8.5

Sports & Navigation

20.0%

3.9

Battery

18.0%

7.8

Health

18.0%

8.1

Display

8.0%

7.4

Smart Features

8.0%

9.5

App & Wellness

4.0%

8.4

Connectivity

4.0%

6.5

Design & Durability

7.3
Microsoft Band has a technical score of 7.27 points, which is higher than 60.1% 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%

7.3

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
3.6
(160)
amazon
3.7
(91)

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

8.1
Microsoft Band has a user score of 8.09 points, which is higher than 62.9% of fitness trackers.
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.
10
Microsoft Band has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 60.1% 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%

7.4

Overall score

40.0%

9.6

Price

8.1
Microsoft Band has a quality-to-price ratio of 8.1 points, which is higher than 54% 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
Microsoft Band 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
Microsoft Band 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
Microsoft Band 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
Microsoft Band 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
Microsoft Band 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

yes
Microsoft Band has GPS. 89.5% of fitness trackers have GPS.
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

GPS + GLONASS
Microsoft Band supports GPS + GLONASS satellite systems which is more versatile than that of 89.3% of fitness trackers and the same as that of 5.1% of fitness trackers.
Multi-GNSS 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

yes
Microsoft Band supports advanced GNSS bands. 91.7% of fitness trackers support advanced GNSS bands.
supports GNSS L1 band.
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
Microsoft Band 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
Microsoft Band does not support faster GPS acquisition. 7.2% of fitness trackers support faster GPS acquisition.
Show more
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

yes
Microsoft Band supports notifications. 27.5% 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

yes
Microsoft Band supports vibration alerts. 16.3% 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
Microsoft Band 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
Microsoft Band 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
Microsoft Band 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
Microsoft Band 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
Microsoft Band supports goal setting. 2.4% of fitness trackers support goal setting.
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
Microsoft Band 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

yes
Microsoft Band supports inactivity alerts. 23.7% 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

yes
Microsoft Band supports coaching. 67.5% of fitness trackers support coaching.
Pre-loaded workout plans.
Show more
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

4.0
Microsoft Band supports Bluetooth 4.0 which is newer than in 5.1% of fitness trackers and equal to that in 51.5% 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

9.1 m
Microsoft Band offers a Bluetooth range of 9.1 m which is lower than that of 86.2% of fitness trackers and equal to that of 2.3% 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
Microsoft Band 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
Microsoft Band 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
Microsoft Band does not support modern Wi-Fi. 1% of fitness trackers support modern Wi-Fi.
no Wi-Fi support.
Show more
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

2 days
Microsoft Band offers a battery life of 2 days which is shorter than that of 97.5% of fitness trackers and equal to that of 1.5% of fitness trackers.
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

5 h
Microsoft Band offers a GPS-on battery life of 5 h which is shorter than that of 60% of fitness trackers and equal to that of 33.3% of fitness trackers.
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

5 h
Microsoft Band offers a training-mode battery life of 5 h which is shorter than that of 74.1% of fitness trackers and equal to that of 22.2% of fitness trackers.
Continuous GPS during training.
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

173 mAh
Microsoft Band has a battery capacity of 173 mAh which is higher than that of 66.2% 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
Microsoft Band 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

1.4 inch
Microsoft Band has a screen size of 1.4 inch which is larger than that of 71.3% of fitness trackers and equal to that of 2.8% of fitness trackers.
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

?
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

106 x 320
Microsoft Band has a screen resolution of 106x320 which is higher than that of 77.8% of fitness trackers.
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

245 ppi
Microsoft Band has a pixel density of 245 ppi which is lower than that of 52.9% of fitness trackers and equal to that of 1% of fitness trackers.
Show more
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

wristband
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
Microsoft Band 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
Microsoft Band 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

no
Microsoft Band does not have a replaceable watch band. 76.1% 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

?
Show more

Microsoft Band vs the average fitness tracker

  • Always-on display
    Microsoft Band 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

    Microsoft Band has an always-on display, while the average fitness tracker does not. 25.7% of fitness trackers have an always-on display.
  • Built-in GPS
    Microsoft Band has GPS, while the average fitness tracker does not. 11% of fitness trackers have 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

    Microsoft Band has GPS, while the average fitness tracker does not. 11% of fitness trackers have GPS.
  • Measures VO2 max
    Microsoft Band supports VO2 max tracking, while the average fitness tracker does not. 22.5% of fitness trackers support VO2 max tracking.
    App estimate.
    What it is: Measures maximum oxygen uptake during exercise.
    When it matters: When deeper insight into sleep quality, recovery, or overall readiness matters more than raw numbers alone.

    Importance: LOW

    Microsoft Band supports VO2 max tracking, while the average fitness tracker does not. 22.5% of fitness trackers support VO2 max tracking.
  • Lower resting heart rate
    Microsoft Band 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

    Microsoft Band supports Resting heart rate, while the average fitness tracker does not. 48.2% of fitness trackers support Resting heart rate.
  • Touchscreen
    Microsoft Band has a touchscreen, while the average fitness tracker does not. 43.8% of fitness trackers have a touchscreen.
    What it is: Ability of the display to recognize touch input.
    When it matters: When smooth touch response and quicker on-screen interaction matter during workouts or daily use.

    Importance: LOW

    Microsoft Band has a touchscreen, while the average fitness tracker does not. 43.8% of fitness trackers have a touchscreen.
  • Coaching features
    Microsoft Band supports coaching, while the average fitness tracker does not. 32.8% of fitness trackers support coaching.
    Pre-loaded workout plans.
    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

    Microsoft Band supports coaching, while the average fitness tracker does not. 32.8% of fitness trackers support coaching.
  • Color display
    Microsoft Band has a color display, while the average fitness tracker does not. 37.9% of fitness trackers have a color display.
    What it is: Displays full color visuals.
    When it matters: When display technology affects contrast, color quality, power efficiency, or how premium the screen feels.

    Importance: LOW

    Microsoft Band has a color display, while the average fitness tracker does not. 37.9% of fitness trackers have a color display.
  • Branded damage-resistant glass
    Microsoft Band uses branded damage-resistant glass, while the average fitness tracker does not. 22.2% of fitness trackers use branded damage-resistant glass.
    Corning Gorilla Glass 3.
    What it is: Shows whether the display uses a named reinforced glass brand instead of unspecified screen protection.
    When it matters: When scratch resistance and long-term display protection matter for everyday wear.

    Importance: LOW

    Microsoft Band uses branded damage-resistant glass, while the average fitness tracker does not. 22.2% of fitness trackers use branded damage-resistant glass.
  • Measures VO2 max
    Microsoft Band supports VO2 max tracking, while the average fitness tracker does not. 22.5% of fitness trackers support VO2 max tracking.
  • Lower resting heart rate
    Microsoft Band supports Resting heart rate, while the average fitness tracker does not. 48.2% of fitness trackers support Resting heart rate.
  • Built-in temperature sensor
    Microsoft Band has a temperature sensor, while the average fitness tracker does not. 10.2% of fitness trackers have a temperature sensor.
  • Tracks skin temperature
    Microsoft Band supports skin temperature tracking, while the average fitness tracker does not. 11.3% of fitness trackers support skin temperature tracking.
  • Sweat tracking
    Microsoft Band supports sweat tracking, while the average fitness tracker does not. 7.7% of fitness trackers support sweat tracking.
  • EDA sensor
    Microsoft Band has an EDA sensor, while the average fitness tracker does not. 6.6% of fitness trackers have an EDA sensor.
  • Built-in GPS
    Microsoft Band has GPS, while the average fitness tracker does not. 11% of fitness trackers have GPS.
  • Built-in gyroscope
    Microsoft Band has a gyroscope, while the average fitness tracker does not. 26.4% of fitness trackers have a gyroscope.
  • Built-in route tracker
    Microsoft Band supports route tracking, while the average fitness tracker does not. 49.8% of fitness trackers support route tracking.
  • Golf-ready design
    Microsoft Band is designed for golf, while the average fitness tracker is not. 1.4% of fitness trackers are designed for golf.
  • Advanced GNSS band support
    Microsoft Band supports advanced GNSS bands, while the average fitness tracker does not. 8.8% of fitness trackers support advanced GNSS bands.
  • Auto lap
    Microsoft Band supports auto lap, while the average fitness tracker does not. 19.9% of fitness trackers support auto lap.
  • Broad satellite support
    Microsoft Band supports more satellite systems than the average fitness tracker (GPS + GLONASS vs no). The average fitness tracker supports no satellite systems.
  • 57.3% larger battery capacity
    Microsoft Band has a higher battery capacity than the average fitness tracker (173 mAh vs 110 mAh). The average fitness tracker has 110 mAh of battery capacity.
  • Always-on display
    Microsoft Band has an always-on display, while the average fitness tracker does not. 25.7% of fitness trackers have an always-on display.
  • Touchscreen
    Microsoft Band has a touchscreen, while the average fitness tracker does not. 43.8% of fitness trackers have a touchscreen.
  • Color display
    Microsoft Band has a color display, while the average fitness tracker does not. 37.9% of fitness trackers have a color display.
  • Branded damage-resistant glass
    Microsoft Band uses branded damage-resistant glass, while the average fitness tracker does not. 22.2% of fitness trackers use branded damage-resistant glass.
  • 0.36 inch larger screen size
    Microsoft Band has a higher screen size than the average fitness tracker (1.4 inch vs 1.04 inch). The average fitness tracker has a screen size of 1.04 inch.
  • Ambient light sensor
    Microsoft Band has an ambient light sensor, while the average fitness tracker does not. 15.8% of fitness trackers have an ambient light sensor.
  • Windows compatible
    Microsoft Band is compatible with Windows, while the average fitness tracker is not. 22.3% of fitness trackers are compatible with Windows.
  • Mac OS X compatible
    Microsoft Band is compatible with Mac OS X, while the average fitness tracker is not. 27.5% of fitness trackers are compatible with Mac OS X.
  • 800x higher CPU speed
    Microsoft Band has a higher CPU speed than the average fitness tracker (120 GHz vs 0.15 GHz). The average fitness tracker has 0.15 GHz of CPU speed.
  • 2,000x higher RAM capacity
    Microsoft Band has a higher RAM capacity than the average fitness tracker (2 GB vs 0.001 GB). The average fitness tracker has 0.001 GB of RAM capacity.
  • 2 more physical buttons
    Microsoft Band has a higher physical buttons than the average fitness tracker (2 vs 0). The average fitness tracker has 0 of physical buttons.
  • High voice commands
    Microsoft Band supports voice commands, while the average fitness tracker does not. 5.4% of fitness trackers support voice commands.
  • Voice assistant support
    Microsoft Band supports voice assistants, while the average fitness tracker does not. 7% of fitness trackers support voice assistants.
  • Camera remote control
    Microsoft Band supports camera remote control, while the average fitness tracker does not. 38.6% of fitness trackers support camera remote control.
  • Gesture control
    Microsoft Band supports gesture controls, while the average fitness tracker does not. 40.8% of fitness trackers support gesture controls.
  • 2x larger internal storage
    Microsoft Band has a higher internal storage than the average fitness tracker (0.1 GB vs 0.032 GB). The average fitness tracker has 0.032 GB of internal storage.
  • 2.3 mm thinner design
    Microsoft Band is thinner than the average fitness tracker (8.7 mm vs 11 mm). The average fitness tracker has a thickness of 11 mm.
  • 21.8 mm lower height
    Microsoft Band is shorter than the average fitness tracker (19 mm vs 40.8 mm). The average fitness tracker has a height of 40.8 mm.
  • Coaching features
    Microsoft Band supports coaching, while the average fitness tracker does not. 32.8% of fitness trackers support coaching.
  • Third-party app support
    Microsoft Band supports third-party apps, while the average fitness tracker does not. 3.3% of fitness trackers support third-party apps.
  • No automatic activity detection
    Microsoft Band does not support automatic activity detection, while the average fitness tracker does. 50.3% of fitness trackers support automatic activity detection.
  • 8 days shorter battery life
    Microsoft Band has a lower battery life than the average fitness tracker (2 days vs 10 days). The average fitness tracker has 10 days of battery life.
  • 2 h shorter GPS battery life
    Microsoft Band has a lower battery life with GPS on than the average fitness tracker (5 h vs 7 h). The average fitness tracker has 7 h of battery life with GPS on.
  • 3.5 h shorter training-mode battery life
    Microsoft Band has a lower battery life in training mode than the average fitness tracker (5 h vs 8.5 h). The average fitness tracker has 8.5 h of battery life in training mode.
    Continuous GPS during training.
  • Lower screen resolution
    Microsoft Band has a lower screen resolution than the average fitness tracker (106x320 vs 194x368). The average fitness tracker has a screen resolution of 194x368.
  • Basic display glass
    Microsoft Band uses less durable display glass than the average fitness tracker (Plastic vs glass). The average fitness tracker uses glass display glass.
  • 0.9 m shorter Bluetooth range
    Microsoft Band has a shorter Bluetooth range than the average fitness tracker (9.1 m vs 10 m). The average fitness tracker offers a Bluetooth range of 10 m.
  • 2.4x heavier
    Microsoft Band is heavier than the average fitness tracker (60 g vs 25 g). The average fitness tracker weighs 25 g.
  • No replaceable watch band
    Microsoft Band does not have a replaceable watch band, while the average fitness tracker does. 75.7% of fitness trackers have a replaceable watch band.
  • 10 °C higher minimum operating temperature
    Microsoft Band has a higher minimum operating temperature than the average fitness tracker (-10 °C vs 0 °C). The average fitness tracker supports a minimum operating temperature of 0 °C.
  • Not compatible with smart scales
    Microsoft Band is not compatible with smart scales, while the average fitness tracker is. 67% of fitness trackers are compatible with smart scales.
  • 8 days shorter battery life
    Microsoft Band has a lower battery life than the average fitness tracker (2 days vs 10 days). The average fitness tracker has 10 days of 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

    Microsoft Band has a lower battery life than the average fitness tracker (2 days vs 10 days). The average fitness tracker has 10 days of battery life.2 days vs 10 days
  • No automatic activity detection
    Microsoft Band does not support automatic activity detection, while the average fitness tracker does. 50.3% of fitness trackers support automatic activity detection.
    What it is: Automatically recognizes and records physical activities.
    When it matters: When you want common workouts captured even on days when you forget to start tracking manually.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Microsoft Band does not support automatic activity detection, while the average fitness tracker does. 50.3% of fitness trackers support automatic activity detection.
  • 2.4x heavier
    Microsoft Band is heavier than the average fitness tracker (60 g vs 25 g). The average fitness tracker weighs 25 g.
    What it is: Weight of the device including strap.
    When it matters: When overall size, thickness, or weight affects comfort during all-day wear, sleep, or exercise.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: <25 g

    Microsoft Band is heavier than the average fitness tracker (60 g vs 25 g). The average fitness tracker weighs 25 g.60 g vs 25 g
  • 2 h shorter GPS battery life
    Microsoft Band has a lower battery life with GPS on than the average fitness tracker (5 h vs 7 h). The average fitness tracker has 7 h of 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

    Microsoft Band has a lower battery life with GPS on than the average fitness tracker (5 h vs 7 h). The average fitness tracker has 7 h of battery life with GPS on.5 h vs 7 h
  • No replaceable watch band
    Microsoft Band does not have a replaceable watch band, while the average fitness tracker does. 75.7% of fitness trackers have a 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

    Microsoft Band does not have a replaceable watch band, while the average fitness tracker does. 75.7% of fitness trackers have a replaceable watch band.
  • Lower screen resolution
    Microsoft Band has a lower screen resolution than the average fitness tracker (106x320 vs 194x368). The average fitness tracker has a screen resolution of 194x368.
    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

    Microsoft Band has a lower screen resolution than the average fitness tracker (106x320 vs 194x368). The average fitness tracker has a screen resolution of 194x368.106x320 vs 194x368
  • 2.57x more expensive
    Microsoft Band is more expensive than the average fitness tracker (£180 vs £70).
    Microsoft Band is more expensive than the average fitness tracker (£180 vs £70).£180 vs £70
  • Not compatible with smart scales
    Microsoft Band is not compatible with smart scales, while the average fitness tracker is. 67% of fitness trackers are compatible with smart scales.
    What it is: Compatible with connected smart scales.
    When it matters: When tracking daily habits and body trends beyond workouts matters to your health routine.

    Importance: LOW

    Microsoft Band is not compatible with smart scales, while the average fitness tracker is. 67% of fitness trackers are compatible with smart scales.

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Third-party reviews

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

What customers like about Microsoft Band?

  • Comprehensive sensor array including GPS, optical heart rate, UV, and skin temperature
  • Cross-platform compatibility with Android, iOS, and Windows Phone
  • Rich set of smart notifications for messages, emails, and calendar events
  • Bright, customizable color touchscreen display
  • Supports guided workouts and automatic sleep tracking
  • Simple and intuitive user interface with customizable tiles

What customers dislike about Microsoft Band?

  • Uncomfortable and bulky design with a rigid flat screen that doesn't fit all wrist sizes
  • Not waterproof or swim-friendly
  • Mediocre battery life, typically lasting only about 48 hours
  • Screen and body are prone to scratching easily
  • Some advanced features like Cortana and text replies are restricted to Windows Phone users
  • Bluetooth syncing and pairing can occasionally be buggy

Expert reviews

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engadget.com
12/11/2014

The Engadget review characterises the $200 Microsoft Band as an ambitious crossover between a smartwatch and a fitness tracker that ultimately feels more like a proof of concept than a consumer-ready device. On the positive side, the wearable shines due to its cross-platform software compatibility, offering an identical, data-rich experience across Windows Phone, iOS, and Android....Read more

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expertreviews.co.uk
18/11/2015

Microsoft Band Review Summary The original Microsoft Band stands out as a highly ambitious, OS-agnostic wearable that heavily prioritises health tracking through an extensive array of built-in sensors. Its core strengths lie in its independent GPS functionality—which allows users to map outdoor activities without carrying a smartphone—and specialized sensors measuring UV exposure,...Read more

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thurrott.com
17/02/2015

The Microsoft Band is an incredibly advanced fitness wearable packed with sensors and backed by Microsoft Azure’s powerful machine learning cloud capabilities. Its biggest advantages lie in its highly interactive features, most notably a bright multi-touch screen with a tile-based user interface and robust "guided workouts" that cater to all skill levels. It also goes beyond...Read more

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t3.com
18/08/2015

The T3 Microsoft Band review outlines a powerful but aesthetically flawed hybrid device that costs £150/$180 and bridges the gap between step trackers, running watches, and smartwatches. A major standout pro is its customizable Windows-style tiled interface displayed on a very bright screen, paired with advanced Guided Workouts that track intermediate interval training intervals...Read more

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cityam.com
29/04/2015

The Microsoft Band is an ambitious but deeply flawed entry into the fitness tracker market, retailing at £169.99. It is heavily praised for its extensive features, notably its cross-platform compatibility with multiple smartphone brands and a built-in GPS that allows for phone-free run tracking. It also stands out by including an integrated UV monitor to alert users when they need...Read more

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telegraph.co.uk
17/03/2015

The Telegraph review describes the Microsoft Band as a "surprisingly good" wearable that offers a comfortable fit and effective, motivating workout tracking, with high potential to lead in the fitness market. Its core strengths lie in immediate, simple usability and functionality that successfully encourages more productive exercise. The Telegraph However, the review highlights...Read more

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theguardian.com
15/04/2015

In The Guardian's review, Samuel Gibbs evaluates the Microsoft Band (£170) as a highly accurate, advanced fitness tracker packed with ten distinct tracking sensors. The reviewer highly praises several prominent pros, including its reliable three-day battery life (which drops to two days when tracking exercises with GPS) and its extensive suite of sensors, such as an optical heart...Read more

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neowin.net
10/11/2014

The Neowin review of the first-generation Microsoft Band highlights a feature-rich, $199 wearable with impressive tracking capabilities, including built-in GPS, a heart rate monitor, and a 1.4-inch touchscreen. While offering cross-platform compatibility and comprehensive data, the device is praised for its sensor array. However, the review notes significant cons, primarily the...Read more

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pcmag.com
11/11/2014

The PCMag review characterizes the original Microsoft Band as an ambitious but flawed fitness tracker, highlighting a sharp, full-color display and useful guided workouts. However, these features are undermined by a rigid, uncomfortable design—particularly for smaller wrists—due to inflexible components. Beyond ergonomics, the device suffers from inaccurate heart rate monitoring and...Read more

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theverge.com
11/11/2014

The Microsoft Band is positioned as an ambitious, feature-dense fitness tracker featuring 10 sensors, including continuous heart rate, GPS, and a UV monitor, providing valuable, actionable data through the Microsoft Health platform. It effectively offers 24/7 activity tracking, sleep analysis, and smartwatch notifications, along with Cortana voice controls for Windows Phone users....Read more

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cnet.com
12/11/2014

Microsoft Band Review Summary The Microsoft Band is an ambitious first attempt at a hybrid "smart fitness band" that blends comprehensive activity tracking with robust smartwatch capabilities across Android, iOS, and Windows Phone devices. On the positive side, it features accurate standalone GPS for tracking runs, a continuous 24-hour heart-rate monitor, and the ability to download...Read more

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uk.pcmag.com
11/11/2014

Microsoft Band Review Summary The Microsoft Band ($199) is a feature-rich fitness tracker and smartwatch hybrid that earns a 3.5 out of 5 (Good) rating, primarily held back by severe design flaws. On the positive side, it is packed with advanced features, including built-in GPS tracking for phone-free runs, customisable screens, push notifications across iOS, Android, and Windows...Read more

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community.o2.co.uk
17/10/2015

The Microsoft Band 1 review on the O2 Community highlights extensive data tracking, a clear display, and efficient 2-3 day battery life, noting its convenience for checking notifications and golfing, according to. The user praised the magnetic charger, finding it a cost-effective alternative to dedicated sports watches. However, the review outlines cons including the device's bulky,...Read more

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thebioneer.com
23/04/2015

The Microsoft Band, as reviewed by The Bioneer, is a sensor-packed wearable featuring 10 distinct sensors, including GPS, optical heart rate, and UV monitoring, offering high accuracy for fitness tracking and seamless cross-platform compatibility. The device is lauded for its informative, horizontal screen display and, for Windows Phone users, direct integration with Cortana....Read more

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focus.de
18/06/2015

The Microsoft Band is a plastic-bodied fitness smartwatch priced at $199, aiming to stand out through its integration with a specialized cloud service. On the positive side, it features an exceptionally slim profile of just 7.9 mm and weighs a highly wearable 60 grams, making it one of the smaller and more comfortable options for daily use. Its elongated 1.4-inch display offers a...Read more

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worldofppc.com
17/11/2014

The Microsoft Band functions as an innovative hybrid between a fitness tracker and a smartwatch, notable for launching with cross-platform compatibility across Windows Phone, iOS, and Android. In terms of performance and fitness tracking, it stands out with a broad array of built-in sensors, most notably an integrated GPS that allows users to accurately track outdoor runs without...Read more

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trentejours.com
19/07/2015

The Microsoft Band serves as a highly capable but ultimately flawed companion for runners, as highlighted in this 2015 review. On paper, it presents an impressive suite of features for athletes, boasting built-in GPS capabilities that allow users to run without carrying a smartphone, an integrated heart rate monitor, and data syncing through the Microsoft Health companion app. It...Read more

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geeksandcom.com
26/01/2015

The Microsoft Band is a highly functional cross-platform wearable that blends the features of a fitness tracker and a smartwatch for iOS, Android, and Windows Phone devices. It is equipped with a rich array of sensors, including a continuous heart rate monitor, ambient light sensor, gyroscope, and rare features like a built-in GPS and a UV radiation sensor. Its 1.4-inch color LCD...Read more

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es.gizmodo.com
30/10/2014

The Gizmodo review highlights the Microsoft Band as an exceptionally ambitious and intelligent fitness tracker priced at $199, designed to act as a comprehensive personal trainer on your wrist. Operating in tandem with the Microsoft Health platform via Bluetooth, the cross-platform wearable supports iOS, Android, and Windows Phone. It goes beyond simple data collection by leveraging...Read more

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tweakers.net
27/05/2017

The Microsoft Band (2015)—frequently referred to by users as the Band 2—is a fitness tracker and smartwatch hybrid that receives generally positive feedback for its functional design and capabilities. Users consistently praise its extensive variety of built-in sensors, which include a highly accurate GPS, a heart rate monitor, a barometer, and a UV meter,,. Its curved, crisp display...Read more

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id.nl
20/03/2015

The Microsoft Band, as reviewed by ID.nl, operates as a capable hybrid wearable designed to bridge the gap between a robust activity tracker and a functional smartwatch. It excels in cross-platform compatibility, offering users seamless access to notifications, calls, and messages alongside comprehensive health tracking, making it a highly functional, all-in-one device. However, the...Read more

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