Unveiling the Ultimate Showdown: iHealth Wave vs Microsoft Band for Fitness Enthusiasts

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What To Know

  • The Microsoft Band, on the other hand, features a more robust design with a curved, rectangular display and a textured silicone band.
  • If you’re looking for a basic, affordable fitness tracker with a long battery life, the iHealth Wave is a solid choice.
  • However, if you desire a feature-rich tracker with a vibrant display and advanced functionality, the Microsoft Band was a great option, although it’s no longer available new.

Choosing the right fitness tracker can be a daunting task, with a plethora of options flooding the market. If you’re considering the iHealth Wave and the Microsoft Band, you’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the features, pros, and cons of each tracker to help you make an informed decision.

In This Article

Design and Comfort

The iHealth Wave boasts a sleek, minimalist design with a rectangular, lightweight body. Its silicone band is comfortable to wear, even during intense workouts. The Microsoft Band, on the other hand, features a more robust design with a curved, rectangular display and a textured silicone band. While it feels secure on the wrist, some users may find it slightly bulky.

Display and Interface

The iHealth Wave features a small, monochrome OLED display that displays basic information like time, steps, heart rate, and sleep data. The Microsoft Band, however, offers a vibrant color touchscreen display, providing a more visually appealing and informative experience. Its interface is intuitive and easy to navigate.

Features and Functionality

iHealth Wave:

  • Activity Tracking: Tracks steps, distance, calories burned, and active minutes.
  • Sleep Monitoring: Monitors sleep duration and quality.
  • Heart Rate Tracking: Measures heart rate continuously or on demand.
  • Water Reminder: Sets reminders to stay hydrated.
  • Smartphone Notifications: Receives notifications for calls, texts, and social media.
  • Remote Camera Control: Controls the camera on your smartphone.

Microsoft Band:

  • Activity Tracking: Tracks steps, distance, calories burned, floors climbed, and active minutes.
  • Sleep Monitoring: Monitors sleep duration, quality, and stages.
  • Heart Rate Tracking: Measures heart rate continuously or on demand.
  • GPS: Tracks your location and distance during outdoor workouts.
  • UV Monitoring: Measures your exposure to UV radiation.
  • Music Control: Controls music playback on your smartphone.
  • Smartphone Notifications: Receives notifications for calls, texts, emails, and social media.
  • Cortana Integration: Accesses the voice assistant for hands-free tasks.
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Battery Life

The iHealth Wave boasts an impressive battery life of up to 7 days on a single charge. The Microsoft Band, however, has a shorter battery life, lasting around 2 days with moderate use.

Water Resistance

Both the iHealth Wave and the Microsoft Band are water-resistant, but their levels of resistance differ. The iHealth Wave is water-resistant up to 5 ATM (50 meters), making it suitable for swimming. The Microsoft Band, on the other hand, is water-resistant up to 1 ATM (10 meters), suitable for splashing but not for swimming.

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Price and Availability

The iHealth Wave is generally more affordable than the Microsoft Band. It is readily available online and in retail stores. The Microsoft Band is no longer in production, but you might find used or refurbished models online.

Pros and Cons

iHealth Wave:
Pros:

  • Affordable price
  • Long battery life
  • Comfortable to wear
  • Water-resistant for swimming

Cons:

  • Basic display
  • Limited features compared to the Microsoft Band

Microsoft Band:
Pros:

  • Vibrant color touchscreen display
  • Extensive features
  • GPS tracking
  • Music control
  • Cortana integration

Cons:

  • Shorter battery life
  • Bulky design
  • No longer in production

Which Fitness Tracker Is Right for You?

The choice between the iHealth Wave and the Microsoft Band depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a basic, affordable fitness tracker with a long battery life, the iHealth Wave is a solid choice. However, if you desire a feature-rich tracker with a vibrant display and advanced functionality, the Microsoft Band was a great option, although it’s no longer available new.

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The Verdict: Beyond the Waves

While the Microsoft Band is no longer in production, its legacy as a powerful and feature-packed fitness tracker remains. The iHealth Wave, on the other hand, offers a simple and affordable alternative for those seeking basic fitness tracking capabilities. Ultimately, the best fitness tracker for you is the one that best suits your individual needs and budget.

Top Questions Asked

Q: Can I use the iHealth Wave for swimming?
A: Yes, the iHealth Wave is water-resistant up to 5 ATM (50 meters), making it suitable for swimming.
Q: Does the Microsoft Band have GPS?
A: Yes, the Microsoft Band features built-in GPS for tracking your location and distance during outdoor workouts.
Q: Is the Microsoft Band still available?
A: No, the Microsoft Band is no longer in production. You may be able to find used or refurbished models online.
Q: What is the battery life of the iHealth Wave?
A: The iHealth Wave has a battery life of up to 7 days on a single charge.
Q: Can I use the Microsoft Band to control music playback?
A: Yes, the Microsoft Band allows you to control music playback on your smartphone.