What To Know
- The **Runtastic Orbit** focuses on providing accurate activity data and integrates seamlessly with the Runtastic app, offering a wide range of workout tracking and analysis tools.
- If you prioritize a sleek and comfortable design with social features and extended battery life, the Nike Fuelband might be a better choice, despite its discontinuation.
- However, if you seek a more compact and discreet tracker with accurate activity tracking and a wider range of workout tools, the **Runtastic Orbit** offers a viable alternative.
Choosing the right fitness tracker can be a daunting task, with a plethora of options available in the market. Two popular contenders, the Nike Fuelband and the **Runtastic Orbit**, offer unique features and cater to different fitness needs. This article delves into a detailed comparison of these two trackers, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Comfort
The Nike Fuelband boasts a sleek and stylish design, featuring a minimalist wristband with an LED display. Its lightweight and comfortable construction makes it ideal for everyday wear, even during intense workouts. The **Runtastic Orbit**, on the other hand, adopts a more compact and discreet approach. It resembles a small, round pendant that can be worn around the neck or attached to clothing. While it’s less bulky than the Fuelband, its pendant design might not appeal to everyone.
Activity Tracking
Both trackers excel in activity tracking, providing insights into your daily movements. The Nike Fuelband utilizes its proprietary “NikeFuel” system, which measures your overall activity level and assigns a score based on your efforts. It tracks steps, calories burned, and distance covered, offering a comprehensive view of your daily activity. The **Runtastic Orbit**, while lacking the Fuel system, accurately tracks steps, distance, and sleep duration. It also features a built-in accelerometer that monitors your movement intensity, providing a more detailed picture of your physical activity.
Sleep Monitoring
While neither tracker offers advanced sleep analysis like dedicated sleep trackers, both provide basic sleep monitoring capabilities. The Nike Fuelband tracks your sleep duration and quality, providing insights into your sleep patterns. The **Runtastic Orbit** also monitors sleep duration, but it lacks the detailed sleep quality analysis offered by the Fuelband.
Additional Features
The Nike Fuelband includes a social aspect, allowing you to connect with friends and compete in challenges. It also features a built-in timer for interval training and a customizable goal setting feature. The **Runtastic Orbit** focuses on providing accurate activity data and integrates seamlessly with the Runtastic app, offering a wide range of workout tracking and analysis tools.
Battery Life and Water Resistance
The Nike Fuelband boasts a commendable battery life, lasting up to five days on a single charge. It also features water resistance up to 50 meters, making it suitable for swimming. The **Runtastic Orbit**, however, falls short in this regard. Its battery life is significantly shorter, lasting only up to 24 hours. Additionally, it’s not water-resistant, limiting its use during water-based activities.
Price and Availability
The Nike Fuelband is no longer available for purchase, having been discontinued by Nike. However, you can still find used units online at varying prices. The **Runtastic Orbit**, on the other hand, remains available for purchase, offering a more affordable option compared to the Fuelband.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Tracker
Ultimately, the choice between the Nike Fuelband and the **Runtastic Orbit** boils down to your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize a sleek and comfortable design with social features and extended battery life, the Nike Fuelband might be a better choice, despite its discontinuation. However, if you seek a more compact and discreet tracker with accurate activity tracking and a wider range of workout tools, the **Runtastic Orbit** offers a viable alternative.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q1: Does the Nike Fuelband require a smartphone connection?
A1: No, the Nike Fuelband can function independently and stores data locally. However, you’ll need to connect it to a smartphone or computer to sync and access your data.
Q2: Can the Runtastic Orbit track heart rate?
A2: No, the Runtastic Orbit doesn’t include a built-in heart rate sensor. You’ll need to pair it with a separate heart rate monitor to track your heart rate data.
Q3: Is the Nike Fuelband compatible with iOS and Android devices?
A3: Yes, the Nike Fuelband is compatible with both iOS and Android devices.
Q4: What is the warranty period for the Runtastic Orbit?
A4: The Runtastic Orbit comes with a one-year limited warranty.
Q5: Can I use the Nike Fuelband for swimming?
A5: Yes, the Nike Fuelband is water-resistant up to 50 meters, making it suitable for swimming. However, it’s not specifically designed for swimming and may not be as accurate as dedicated swim trackers.