Explosive Comparison: Microsoft Band 2015 vs Withings Steel – Which Fitness Tracker Will Blow Your Mind?

Choosing the right fitness tracker can be a daunting task, especially with the plethora of options available in the market. Two popular contenders that have often been compared are the Microsoft Band 2015 and the Withings Steel. Both devices offer a range of features designed to help you track your fitness progress, but they differ in their approach and capabilities.
This blog post aims to provide a comprehensive comparison of the Microsoft Band 2015 and the Withings Steel, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Comfort

The Microsoft Band 2015 and the Withings Steel take vastly different approaches to design. The Microsoft Band is a chunky, futuristic device that wraps around your wrist like a bracelet. It features a vibrant, color touchscreen display and a plethora of sensors. In contrast, the Withings Steel is a sleek, minimalist tracker that resembles a traditional watch. It has a smaller, monochrome display that only shows time and activity progress.
Microsoft Band 2015:

• Pros: Offers a large, colorful display for easy navigation and data visualization. Features a variety of sensors for comprehensive tracking.
• Cons: Can feel bulky and uncomfortable for some users, especially during sleep. The design might not appeal to everyone.

Withings Steel:

• Pros: Elegant and stylish design that blends seamlessly with any attire. Lightweight and comfortable to wear all day and night.
• Cons: Limited display functionality, only showing time and activity progress. Lacks advanced features found in the Microsoft Band.

Activity Tracking

Both the Microsoft Band 2015 and the Withings Steel excel at tracking basic activity metrics like steps, distance, and calories burned. However, the Microsoft Band offers a more comprehensive approach with additional features.
Microsoft Band 2015:

• Pros: Tracks heart rate, sleep quality, UV exposure, and even provides GPS for outdoor workouts.
• Cons: Heart rate tracking can be inaccurate at times, especially during intense workouts.

Withings Steel:

• Pros: Accurately tracks steps and distance. Offers a simple and effective approach to activity monitoring.
• Cons: Lacks advanced features like heart rate tracking and GPS.

Smart Features

While both devices offer some smart features, the Microsoft Band 2015 clearly outperforms the Withings Steel in this area.
Microsoft Band 2015:

• Pros: Integrates with Cortana for voice commands and notifications. Allows for music control and app notifications.
• Cons: Battery life is relatively short, requiring frequent charging.

Withings Steel:

• Pros: Offers silent alarms and call notifications.
• Cons: Limited smart features compared to the Microsoft Band.

Battery Life

Battery life is a crucial consideration for any fitness tracker, and the Withings Steel significantly outperforms the Microsoft Band 2015.
Microsoft Band 2015:

• Pros: Offers a decent battery life that can last for a full day with moderate use.
• Cons: Requires frequent charging, making it less convenient for multi-day trips.

Withings Steel:

• Pros: Boasts an impressive battery life that can last for up to 8 months on a single charge.
• Cons: The battery is not replaceable, meaning you’ll need to buy a new tracker when the battery dies.

Price and Availability

The Microsoft Band 2015 is no longer available for purchase, having been discontinued by Microsoft. The Withings Steel, however, is still available and offers a more affordable option compared to the Microsoft Band.
Microsoft Band 2015:

• Pros: Was available at a competitive price point.
• Cons: No longer available for purchase.

Withings Steel:

• Pros: Offers a more affordable price point than the Microsoft Band 2015.
• Cons: May not be as feature-rich as the Microsoft Band 2015.

The Verdict: Choosing the Right Tracker for You

The choice between the Microsoft Band 2015 and the Withings Steel ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize a comprehensive set of features, a vibrant display, and smart capabilities, the Microsoft Band 2015 was a solid choice (though it’s no longer available). However, if you prefer a sleek and stylish design, long battery life, and a minimalist approach to fitness tracking, the Withings Steel might be the better option.

Final Thoughts: Beyond the Band and Steel

While the Microsoft Band 2015 and the Withings Steel were popular options in their time, the fitness tracker market has evolved significantly. Newer devices offer even more advanced features, longer battery life, and improved design. It’s important to consider your specific needs and research the latest models available before making a purchase.

Questions You May Have

Q: Can I use the Microsoft Band 2015 with an iPhone?
A: No, the Microsoft Band 2015 was only compatible with Android and Windows Phone devices.
Q: Is the Withings Steel waterproof?
A: Yes, the Withings Steel is water-resistant up to 50 meters.
Q: What are some alternatives to the Microsoft Band 2015 and the Withings Steel?
A: Some popular alternatives include the Fitbit Charge 5, the Garmin Venu 2, and the Apple Watch Series 7.
Q: How often do I need to charge the Withings Steel?
A: The Withings Steel has a battery life of up to 8 months, so you only need to charge it once every few months.
Q: Can I use the Microsoft Band 2015 for swimming?
A: No, the Microsoft Band 2015 was not waterproof and should not be used for swimming.