What To Know
- The Polar A370, on the other hand, adopts a more traditional, minimalist design, with a smaller, monochrome display and a comfortable silicone wristband.
- The Polar A370, while lacking the extensive features of the Microsoft Band, offers a user-friendly interface and focuses on providing actionable insights to optimize your training.
- The Polar A370, on the other hand, is still available for purchase and falls within a similar price range compared to other fitness trackers in its category.
Choosing the right fitness tracker can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the market are the Microsoft Band and the Polar A370. While both devices offer features designed to enhance your fitness journey, they cater to different needs and preferences. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of both trackers, helping you determine which one is the perfect fit for your fitness goals.
Design and Comfort
The Microsoft Band, known for its sleek and modern design, boasts a vibrant color display and a comfortable wristband. It’s available in various sizes and colors, allowing you to personalize your look. The Polar A370, on the other hand, adopts a more traditional, minimalist design, with a smaller, monochrome display and a comfortable silicone wristband. While the Microsoft Band might appeal to those seeking a stylish and feature-rich tracker, the Polar A370 prioritizes comfort and ease of use.
Activity Tracking and Metrics
Both trackers excel in activity tracking, offering accurate data on steps, distance, calories burned, and sleep patterns. However, the Microsoft Band goes a step further by incorporating heart rate monitoring, GPS, and even UV exposure tracking. The Polar A370 focuses on heart rate monitoring, providing detailed insights into your heart rate variability and offering personalized training guidance. It also features a built-in accelerometer for accurate step counting and distance measurement.
Features and Functionality
The Microsoft Band stands out with its comprehensive feature set, offering integration with various fitness apps, notifications from your smartphone, and even Cortana voice assistant support. It allows you to control music playback, receive calls, and manage emails directly from your wrist. The Polar A370, while lacking the extensive features of the Microsoft Band, offers a user-friendly interface and focuses on providing actionable insights to optimize your training. It also includes a built-in sleep tracker and a personalized training guidance feature.
Battery Life and Water Resistance
The Microsoft Band boasts impressive battery life, lasting for up to two days on a single charge. It also features water resistance up to 50 meters, making it suitable for swimming. The Polar A370, however, falls short in this regard, with a battery life of up to 4 days and water resistance up to 30 meters. While the Polar A370 offers a longer battery life, the Microsoft Band provides greater versatility for water-based activities.
Price and Availability
The Microsoft Band, due to its discontinued status, is only available secondhand. However, it was previously priced competitively, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious fitness enthusiasts. The Polar A370, on the other hand, is still available for purchase and falls within a similar price range compared to other fitness trackers in its category.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between the Microsoft Band and the Polar A370 ultimately boils down to your individual needs and preferences. If you seek a feature-rich tracker with a stylish design, comprehensive activity tracking, and seamless smartphone integration, the Microsoft Band might be the better choice. However, if you prioritize comfort, accurate heart rate monitoring, and personalized training guidance, the Polar A370 could be a more suitable option.
Final Thoughts: The Verdict is In!
Choosing the right fitness tracker is a personal decision. While both the Microsoft Band and the Polar A370 offer valuable insights into your fitness journey, they cater to different needs. The Microsoft Band, with its extensive features and stylish design, is an excellent choice for tech-savvy individuals seeking a comprehensive fitness companion. The Polar A370, with its focus on heart rate monitoring and personalized training guidance, is a solid option for serious fitness enthusiasts looking to optimize their training regimen. Ultimately, the best tracker for you depends on your specific fitness goals and priorities.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Is the Microsoft Band still available for purchase?
A: No, the Microsoft Band is discontinued and only available secondhand.
Q: Does the Polar A370 offer GPS tracking?
A: No, the Polar A370 does not have built-in GPS. It relies on your smartphone’s GPS for location tracking.
Q: What is the difference between the Microsoft Band and the Polar A370 in terms of heart rate monitoring?
A: Both trackers offer heart rate monitoring, but the Polar A370 is known for its more accurate and comprehensive heart rate data, including heart rate variability.
Q: Does the Microsoft Band offer sleep tracking?
A: Yes, the Microsoft Band includes a sleep tracker, providing insights into your sleep patterns, including sleep duration and quality.
Q: Can I use either tracker for swimming?
A: The Microsoft Band is water-resistant up to 50 meters, making it suitable for swimming. The Polar A370 is water-resistant up to 30 meters, so it can withstand splashes but might not be ideal for swimming.