Shocking Results: Microsoft Band 2015 vs Polar A370 – Which is the Ultimate Fitness Tracker?

Choosing the right fitness tracker can be a daunting task, with so many options available in the market. Two popular contenders that often come up in discussions are the Microsoft Band 2015 and the Polar A370. Both offer a range of features designed to help you track your activity, sleep, and overall health. But which one comes out on top? Let’s dive into a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Comfort

The Microsoft Band 2015 boasts a sleek, modern design with a vibrant color display. Its unique curved shape wraps comfortably around the wrist, making it feel secure and unobtrusive. However, some users have reported discomfort due to the band’s rigid construction, especially during prolonged wear.
The Polar A370 adopts a more traditional fitness tracker design with a circular display and a comfortable silicone band. It’s lighter than the Microsoft Band 2015 and comes in various colors to match your style. The A370 is generally considered more comfortable for everyday wear, but its minimalist design may not appeal to those seeking a more sophisticated look.

Features and Functionality

Both devices offer a comprehensive suite of fitness tracking features, but with some key differences:
Microsoft Band 2015:

• Heart Rate Monitoring: Utilizes optical heart rate sensors for continuous tracking.
• Activity Tracking: Tracks steps, distance, calories burned, and sleep.
• GPS: Built-in GPS for accurate outdoor workouts.
• NFC: Enables contactless payments through Microsoft Wallet.
• Cortana Integration: Provides voice control and notifications.
• UV Monitoring: Tracks your exposure to ultraviolet radiation.

Polar A370:

• Heart Rate Monitoring: Employs optical heart rate sensors for continuous and accurate tracking.
• Activity Tracking: Tracks steps, distance, calories burned, and sleep.
• GPS: Requires pairing with a smartphone for GPS tracking.
• Sleep Tracking: Provides detailed sleep analysis with insights into sleep stages and quality.
• Polar Flow App: Offers advanced training features, including personalized training plans and activity analysis.

Performance and Accuracy

Microsoft Band 2015:

• Heart Rate Accuracy: Generally accurate, but can be inconsistent during high-intensity workouts.
• GPS Tracking: Provides reliable GPS data, but can drain battery life quickly.
• Activity Tracking: Accurate step counting and distance tracking.

Polar A370:

• Heart Rate Accuracy: Known for its accurate and consistent heart rate readings.
• GPS Tracking: Relies on smartphone GPS, which can be less accurate than built-in GPS.
• Activity Tracking: Provides reliable data for steps, distance, and calories burned.

Battery Life and Charging

Microsoft Band 2015:

• Battery Life: Offers up to 2 days of battery life on a single charge.
• Charging: Utilizes a proprietary magnetic charger.

Polar A370:

• Battery Life: Provides up to 4 days of battery life on a single charge.
• Charging: Uses a standard USB charging cable.

Price and Availability

Microsoft Band 2015:

• Price: Discontinued, but previously sold for around $200.
• Availability: No longer available for purchase.

Polar A370:

• Price: Currently available for around $150.
• Availability: Widely available online and in retail stores.

The Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

Both the Microsoft Band 2015 and the Polar A370 are capable fitness trackers with their own strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Choose the Microsoft Band 2015 if:

• You prioritize a sleek and modern design.
• You need built-in GPS for accurate outdoor workouts.
• You value features like contactless payments and UV monitoring.
• You’re comfortable with a shorter battery life.

Choose the Polar A370 if:

• You prefer a comfortable and lightweight design.
• You value accurate heart rate tracking and detailed sleep analysis.
• You’re looking for a fitness tracker with a longer battery life.
• You’re willing to sacrifice built-in GPS for a more affordable option.

The Final Word: A Fitness Tracker for Every Need

While the Microsoft Band 2015 is no longer available, its legacy lives on as a testament to innovation and versatility in fitness tracking. The Polar A370, on the other hand, continues to be a popular choice for those seeking a comfortable and feature-rich tracker without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting your fitness journey, both devices offer valuable tools to help you monitor your progress and achieve your goals.

Top Questions Asked

Q: Is the Polar A370 waterproof?
A: Yes, the Polar A370 is waterproof up to 5 ATM (50 meters). This means you can wear it while swimming, but it’s not recommended for diving or high-pressure water activities.
Q: Can I use the Microsoft Band 2015 with Android phones?
A: No, the Microsoft Band 2015 was only compatible with Windows Phone and iOS devices.
Q: Does the Polar A370 have a built-in music player?
A: No, the Polar A370 does not have a built-in music player. You’ll need to rely on your smartphone for music playback.
Q: Which fitness tracker has a more user-friendly interface?
A: The Polar A370 generally has a simpler and more intuitive interface compared to the Microsoft Band 2015.
Q: Can I customize the watch faces on either device?
A: Both devices offer a limited selection of watch faces, but you can’t customize them in the same way you can with a smartwatch.