The Microsoft Band 2’s UI vs. Fitbit

Gadgets, General, Microsoft Band 2, User Experience 0 Comments

Let’s do an analysis of the UI differences between the FitBit and the Microsoft Band. Watch out, Microsoft… the FitBit user interface just got better.

I last blogged about the Microsoft Band 2 and my wishlist of 25 features. I’m pleased that the team has already fixed 3 features, leaving 22 remaining 🙂

Everyone in the Cogan household is continuing my social experiment and wearing both the Microsoft Band 2 and the Fitbit. The Microsoft Band is better in so many ways but the visual differences in the mobile app are its biggest weakness.

I see 6 pieces of information on the Fitbit

  • 6 visualizations of data
  • 6 numbers

Vs.

Figure: When I replace my band, I’d like it if the Band 2 kept my personalized preferences

I see 3 pieces of information on the Microsoft band

  • 0 visualizations
  • 3 numbers
  • Drag down to synchronize
  • Syncing takes 5 seconds
  • The ability to sync on multiple devices; in my case, both my iPhone and iPad

Vs.

  • Can’t sync naturally on this screen
  • Syncing takes 2 minutes and 5 seconds
  • Can only sync on 1 device; in my case, my iPhone

Customizing on the Fitbit

  • Just press “Edit”
  • UI shows the controls in the Edit view in the same place
  • Easy-to-use iOS metaphor with shaking, dragging and “x” to delete

Vs.

– A completely different Edit view

Also note: The normal UI’s 3rd menu is “Cals”, but on the customizing UI the 3rd menu is “Calls”… You can’t remove it 🙁

I’m loving the Microsoft Band 2. The updates so far have been improving the experience heaps. Let’s hope some UI improvements are coming.