What To Know
- It boasts a full-fledged Android Wear operating system, allowing you to access a wide range of apps, make payments with NFC, and control music playback.
- The Sony Wena Wrist Pro is still available for purchase, although it is priced higher than the Microsoft Band 2015.
- The choice between the Microsoft Band 2015 and the Sony Wena Wrist Pro depends heavily on your individual needs and priorities.
Choosing the right fitness tracker can be a daunting task, especially with the plethora of options available. Two popular contenders that often come up in discussions are the Microsoft Band 2015 and the Sony Wena Wrist Pro. Both devices offer a range of features, but their strengths and weaknesses differ significantly. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each tracker, helping you decide which one best suits your fitness goals and lifestyle.
Design and Comfort
Microsoft Band 2015: This tracker boasts a distinctive design with a colorful, rectangular display encased in a rubbery band. While the display offers vibrant colors and good visibility, the band itself can feel bulky and uncomfortable for some users, especially during prolonged wear. The large size and lack of customization options may also be a deterrent for those seeking a more discreet wearable.
Sony Wena Wrist Pro: The Wena Wrist Pro takes a different approach to design, offering a sleek and minimalist aesthetic. It features a classic watch face with interchangeable straps, allowing for greater customization and a more versatile look. The smart module, which houses the fitness tracking sensors, seamlessly integrates into the watch band, making it discreet and comfortable to wear even for extended periods.
Fitness Tracking Features
Microsoft Band 2015: The Microsoft Band 2015 excels in fitness tracking, offering a comprehensive suite of features. It accurately monitors heart rate, steps, sleep, calories burned, and even provides GPS tracking for outdoor workouts. The device also integrates with various fitness apps, allowing you to sync your data and track your progress across multiple platforms.
Sony Wena Wrist Pro: While the Wena Wrist Pro focuses more on smartwatch functionality, it still offers solid fitness tracking features. It tracks steps, distance, calories burned, and sleep duration. However, it lacks a built-in heart rate monitor, which might be a dealbreaker for users who prioritize this metric.
Smartwatch Functionality
Microsoft Band 2015: The Microsoft Band 2015 includes basic smartwatch features such as notifications for calls, messages, and calendar appointments. However, its functionality is limited compared to dedicated smartwatches. The lack of a touchscreen interface can also make navigating menus and accessing apps cumbersome.
Sony Wena Wrist Pro: The Wena Wrist Pro shines in smartwatch functionality. It boasts a full-fledged Android Wear operating system, allowing you to access a wide range of apps, make payments with NFC, and control music playback. The touchscreen interface provides a more intuitive and user-friendly experience than the Microsoft Band 2015.
Battery Life
Microsoft Band 2015: The Microsoft Band 2015 offers a respectable battery life of around 2-3 days with moderate use. However, this can be significantly reduced with heavy use of GPS or heart rate monitoring.
Sony Wena Wrist Pro: The Sony Wena Wrist Pro’s battery life is significantly shorter, lasting only around 1-2 days. This is primarily due to the inclusion of a more powerful processor and the smartwatch features that consume more energy.
Price and Availability
Microsoft Band 2015: The Microsoft Band 2015 was discontinued in 2016, making it difficult to find new units. However, used models are still available online at varying prices.
Sony Wena Wrist Pro: The Sony Wena Wrist Pro is still available for purchase, although it is priced higher than the Microsoft Band 2015. The cost varies depending on the watch face and strap you choose.
The Verdict: Which One is Right for You?
The choice between the Microsoft Band 2015 and the Sony Wena Wrist Pro depends heavily on your individual needs and priorities.
Choose the Microsoft Band 2015 if:
- You prioritize comprehensive fitness tracking with features like heart rate monitoring and GPS.
- You are comfortable with a bulkier design and a non-touchscreen interface.
- You are looking for a more affordable option.
Choose the Sony Wena Wrist Pro if:
- You value a sleek and customizable design with a classic watch aesthetic.
- You desire a full-fledged smartwatch experience with Android Wear compatibility.
- You are willing to pay a premium for a more advanced device.
The Final Word: A Fusion of Fitness and Style
Ultimately, the decision of which fitness tracker to choose comes down to personal preference. Both the Microsoft Band 2015 and the Sony Wena Wrist Pro offer unique advantages and cater to different user profiles. While the Microsoft Band 2015 excels in fitness tracking, the Sony Wena Wrist Pro provides a more integrated smartwatch experience. Consider your individual needs, budget, and style preferences to make the best choice for your fitness journey.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: Is the Microsoft Band 2015 water-resistant?
A: Yes, the Microsoft Band 2015 is water-resistant up to 1 ATM (10 meters). However, it is not recommended for swimming or diving.
Q: Can I use the Sony Wena Wrist Pro with an iPhone?
A: No, the Sony Wena Wrist Pro is only compatible with Android devices.
Q: Does the Microsoft Band 2015 have a built-in music player?
A: No, the Microsoft Band 2015 does not have a built-in music player. However, it can control music playback on your smartphone.
Q: What is the difference between the Sony Wena Wrist Pro and the Sony Wena Wrist 3?
A: The Sony Wena Wrist Pro is the first generation of the Wena Wrist series. The Wena Wrist 3 is a newer model with improved features, including a larger display, longer battery life, and a more integrated design.
Q: Can I use both fitness trackers simultaneously?
A: While it is technically possible to wear both trackers at the same time, it is not recommended. Wearing multiple trackers can lead to inaccurate data and discomfort.