What To Know
- You can expect several days of use on a single charge with the Pulsense PS-500, while the Runtastic Orbit typically lasts for a couple of days.
- If you’re looking for a comfortable, affordable tracker with a sharp display and decent battery life, the Epson Pulsense PS-500 is a solid choice.
- The Epson Pulsense PS-500 includes a sleep tracker, a sedentary alert, and a notification system for calls, messages, and other smartphone alerts.
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 Epson Pulsense PS-500 and the Runtastic Orbit. Both boast a range of features designed to help you track your fitness journey, but which one emerges as the champion? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the pros and cons of each tracker, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Comfort
The Epson Pulsense PS-500 adopts a sleek and minimalist design, featuring a rectangular display with a comfortable, soft silicone strap. The lightweight construction ensures a comfortable fit, even during intense workouts. The Runtastic Orbit, on the other hand, opts for a more circular design with a vibrant color display. Its silicone strap is also comfortable, but its larger size might feel slightly bulky for some users.
Display and Interface
Both trackers utilize monochrome displays, but the Epson Pulsense PS-500 takes the lead with its larger and sharper screen. This makes navigating the menus and viewing data easier. The Runtastic Orbit’s smaller display can be challenging to read in bright sunlight. However, the Orbit’s interface is more intuitive and user-friendly, making it easier to find the information you need quickly.
Activity Tracking Features
Both trackers excel in activity tracking, recording steps, distance, calories burned, and sleep patterns. The Epson Pulsense PS-500 boasts a built-in heart rate monitor, providing more comprehensive insights into your fitness levels. The Runtastic Orbit also offers heart rate tracking, but it requires a separate chest strap, adding to the cost and hassle.
GPS Functionality
The Epson Pulsense PS-500 lacks built-in GPS, meaning it relies on your smartphone’s GPS for accurate location tracking during outdoor activities. This can drain your phone’s battery and might not be ideal for users who prefer standalone GPS functionality. The Runtastic Orbit, on the other hand, has built-in GPS, allowing for independent tracking without the need for a smartphone.
Battery Life
Both trackers offer decent battery life, but the Epson Pulsense PS-500 edges out the competition with a longer lifespan. You can expect several days of use on a single charge with the Pulsense PS-500, while the Runtastic Orbit typically lasts for a couple of days.
Water Resistance
The Epson Pulsense PS-500 is water-resistant up to 5 ATM, making it suitable for swimming and other water-based activities. The Runtastic Orbit boasts a higher water resistance rating of 10 ATM, allowing for deeper dives and more intense water sports.
Smartphone Compatibility
Both trackers are compatible with Android and iOS devices. However, the Runtastic Orbit integrates seamlessly with the Runtastic app, providing a comprehensive ecosystem for tracking your fitness goals. The Epson Pulsense PS-500 works with the Epson Connect app, which offers a slightly less robust experience.
Price and Value
The Epson Pulsense PS-500 is generally more affordable than the Runtastic Orbit. This makes it a great value proposition for budget-conscious users. However, the Runtastic Orbit’s built-in GPS and higher water resistance might justify its higher price tag for users who prioritize these features.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right Tracker for You
Ultimately, the choice between the Epson Pulsense PS-500 and the Runtastic Orbit boils down to your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a comfortable, affordable tracker with a sharp display and decent battery life, the Epson Pulsense PS-500 is a solid choice. If you prioritize built-in GPS, a more robust app ecosystem, and a higher water resistance rating, the Runtastic Orbit might be a better fit.
Beyond the Basics: A Look at Additional Features
Both trackers offer additional features beyond the core activity tracking functions. The Epson Pulsense PS-500 includes a sleep tracker, a sedentary alert, and a notification system for calls, messages, and other smartphone alerts. The Runtastic Orbit also boasts a sleep tracker, a timer, and a music control feature.
The Future of Fitness Trackers
The fitness tracker market is constantly evolving, with new models and features emerging regularly. Both Epson and Runtastic are likely to continue innovating, offering even more advanced features and improved functionality in the future.
Final Thoughts: Your Fitness Journey Starts Here
Whether you choose the Epson Pulsense PS-500 or the Runtastic Orbit, both trackers can be valuable tools in your fitness journey. They provide insights into your activity levels, sleep patterns, and overall health, helping you stay motivated and achieve your goals. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each tracker, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your individual needs and budget.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q1: What is the difference between the Epson Pulsense PS-500 and the Runtastic Orbit in terms of accuracy?
A1: Both trackers offer comparable accuracy in activity tracking, with slight variations depending on individual factors. The Epson Pulsense PS-500’s built-in heart rate monitor provides more accurate readings than the Runtastic Orbit’s chest strap, but it’s important to note that heart rate readings can vary depending on individual physiology and the type of activity.
Q2: Can I use the Epson Pulsense PS-500 or the Runtastic Orbit for swimming?
A2: Yes, both trackers are water-resistant and suitable for swimming. However, the Runtastic Orbit boasts a higher water resistance rating (10 ATM) compared to the Epson Pulsense PS-500 (5 ATM), making it more suitable for deeper dives and more intense water sports.
Q3: Do I need a smartphone to use either tracker?
A3: While both trackers can function independently, a smartphone is required for setup, data synchronization, and accessing advanced features. The Epson Pulsense PS-500 relies on your smartphone’s GPS for location tracking during outdoor activities, while the Runtastic Orbit has built-in GPS, allowing for independent tracking without the need for a smartphone.
Q4: Which tracker is better for someone who wants to track their sleep patterns?
A4: Both trackers offer sleep tracking features, but the Runtastic Orbit‘s sleep tracking is considered more accurate and detailed. It provides insights into sleep stages, sleep duration, and sleep quality, offering a more comprehensive understanding of your sleep patterns.
Q5: Can I customize the watch faces on either tracker?
A5: Both trackers offer a limited selection of customizable watch faces. The Epson Pulsense PS-500 allows you to choose from a few pre-set options, while the Runtastic Orbit provides a slightly wider range of watch faces. However, neither tracker offers extensive customization options for watch faces.