What To Know
- While the Microsoft Band might not be as stylish as the Alta, it offers a more robust feel that can withstand everyday wear and tear.
- Both the Fitbit Alta and the Microsoft Band are compatible with a wide range of smartphones, including iOS and Android devices.
- The Microsoft Band, on the other hand, is a more premium product with a higher price tag reflecting its advanced features and functionality.
Choosing the right fitness tracker can be a daunting task, especially with the plethora of options available. Two popular contenders in the market are the Fitbit Alta and the Microsoft Band. Both devices offer a range of features designed to help you track your activity, sleep, and even heart rate. But which one is the best fit for your needs? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key features, pros, and cons of each device to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Comfort
The Fitbit Alta boasts a sleek and minimalist design. Its slim, rectangular display is encased in a lightweight aluminum frame, available in a variety of colors to match your style. The band itself is made of a comfortable elastomer material that feels soft against your skin.
The Microsoft Band, on the other hand, takes a more functional approach. It features a larger, curved display with a touch screen and a more substantial build. The band is made of a durable, flexible material that feels a bit more rigid than the Alta’s. While the Microsoft Band might not be as stylish as the Alta, it offers a more robust feel that can withstand everyday wear and tear.
Display and User Interface
The Fitbit Alta features a small, monochrome OLED display that shows your time, steps, distance, calories burned, and heart rate. While it’s not a touchscreen, the Alta’s display is bright and easy to read, even in direct sunlight. The user interface is simple and intuitive, making it easy to navigate through the different menus.
The Microsoft Band boasts a larger, color touchscreen display that offers a more immersive experience. It allows you to view more detailed information, including your sleep stages, UV exposure, and even notifications from your smartphone. The user interface is more complex and takes some time to get used to, but it ultimately provides more functionality.
Activity Tracking and Features
Both the Fitbit Alta and the Microsoft Band excel at tracking your daily activity. They accurately monitor your steps, distance, calories burned, and active minutes. Both devices also offer heart rate tracking, though the Microsoft Band’s sensor is more accurate and provides more detailed information, including resting heart rate and heart rate variability.
The Microsoft Band goes a step further by offering additional health tracking features, such as sleep stage tracking, UV exposure monitoring, and even stress level detection. The Alta, on the other hand, focuses on the basics, providing simple yet effective activity tracking.
Battery Life
The Fitbit Alta boasts an impressive battery life of up to 5 days on a single charge. This makes it a great option for those who don’t want to worry about constantly charging their device. The Microsoft Band, however, has a significantly shorter battery life, lasting only around 2 days on a single charge. This can be a major drawback for users who travel frequently or are active throughout the day.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both the Fitbit Alta and the Microsoft Band are compatible with a wide range of smartphones, including iOS and Android devices. They connect to your phone via Bluetooth and can receive notifications from your apps, such as calls, texts, and emails. The Microsoft Band, however, offers a wider range of app integrations, including support for platforms like Cortana and Microsoft Health.
Price and Value
The Fitbit Alta is generally more affordable than the Microsoft Band, making it a more budget-friendly option. The Alta’s price point is appealing to those who are just starting out with fitness tracking or are looking for a simple and effective device. The Microsoft Band, on the other hand, is a more premium product with a higher price tag reflecting its advanced features and functionality.
The Verdict: Fitbit Alta vs. Microsoft Band
Ultimately, the best fitness tracker for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.
The Fitbit Alta is a great choice for:
- Those seeking a simple and stylish fitness tracker.
- Users who prioritize battery life and comfort.
- Budget-conscious individuals.
The Microsoft Band is a better fit for:
- Users who want a more comprehensive health and fitness tracker.
- Individuals who appreciate advanced features and functionality.
- Those who are willing to pay a premium for a more robust device.
Beyond the Basics: A Deeper Dive
While both devices offer solid fitness tracking capabilities, there are some key differences that may sway your decision.
Fitbit Alta:
- Pros: Sleek design, comfortable fit, long battery life, affordable price, simple and intuitive user interface.
- Cons: Limited features, small monochrome display, no sleep stage tracking.
Microsoft Band:
- Pros: Comprehensive health tracking, advanced features, color touchscreen display, robust build, extensive app integrations.
- Cons: Short battery life, bulky design, more complex user interface, higher price.
The Future of Fitness Tracking
As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more advanced and innovative fitness trackers emerge in the market. The future of fitness tracking is likely to involve more personalized experiences, seamless integration with other devices, and even more sophisticated health monitoring capabilities.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Fit
Whether you choose the Fitbit Alta or the Microsoft Band, both devices can be valuable tools for achieving your fitness goals. The key is to carefully consider your individual needs and preferences to determine which device is the best fit for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use the Fitbit Alta or the Microsoft Band for swimming?
A: Neither the Fitbit Alta nor the Microsoft Band is waterproof. While they can withstand splashes of water, they are not suitable for swimming or showering.
Q: Does the Microsoft Band work with Apple devices?
A: Yes, the Microsoft Band is compatible with both iOS and Android devices.
Q: What is the difference between the Fitbit Alta HR and the regular Alta?
A: The Fitbit Alta HR features a built-in heart rate sensor, while the regular Alta does not.
Q: Can I use the Fitbit Alta or the Microsoft Band to track my sleep?
A: Yes, both devices can track your sleep patterns, including duration and quality. The Microsoft Band also offers sleep stage tracking, which provides more detailed information about your sleep cycles.
Q: Which device is better for tracking my weight?
A: Both the Fitbit Alta and the Microsoft Band can be used to track your weight. However, you will need to manually enter your weight data into the app. There are other fitness trackers on the market that offer automatic weight tracking via a connected scale.