Microsoft Band 2 review: Getting the (fitness) band back together

The original Microsoft Band was a Swiss Army Knife of fitness functionality, packing in 10 different sensors of varying usefulness. Unfortunately, it also had all the ergonomic fortitude of a 1995 Vauxhall Vectra. However, Microsoft has tackled that criticism head on with the curvy follow-up it has christened the Microsoft Band 2. Unlike its predecessor, the 32 x 12.8mm screen is curved - meaning the band wraps round your wrist in a much more comfortable way. It’s also got a crisper, 255ppi screen - so you can see just how high your heart rate has jumped during that last set. The strap, meanwhile, is a thick plastic material that feels sturdy and is comfortable to wear.

The clasp is very tricky to do up and will take some practice The slider-style clasp means that you can adjust it slightly to fit your wrist and because it’s water-resistant you don’t need to worry about it being covered in sweat. Just don’t wear it in the shower. Microsoft Band 2: Features In time-honoured Spinal Tap fashion, Microsoft has decided that the only thing better than 10 sensors is 11. The tech giant has added a barometer to the list of specs that already includes heart rate tracking, GPS, UV sensor, gyrometer and accelerometer to name a few. The barometer means it’ll track elevation for when you’re climbing stairs or hiking Ben Nevis. Like the earlier Microsoft Band, the sequel will measure your steps, calories and distance. It also has dedicated modes for a variety of sports such as running, biking and general workouts. You can also download specific “guided workout" routines from several fitness specialists. As with other fitness bands, the Microsoft Band 2 will track your sleep - giving you a detailed breakdown on how much light and deep sleep you achieved. Given its size, it’s not the most comfortable thing to wear at night, but there is a “smart alarm” that learns when it’s best to wake you and vibrates accordingly. You can turn this off or set a standard one if you wish. Microsoft Band 2: Usability and battery Although the Band 2 is responsible for recording your fitness, much of the grunt work is done by the Microsoft Health app. Like the band itself, the app works with Android, iOS and, obviously, Windows Phone devices. It uses Windows’ familiar tile interface and you can add or subtract tiles on the Band using the app. It also has some limited smartwatch functionality - you can see incoming texts, tweets or Facebook posts on the screen.

The Microsoft Band 2 uses a tiled interface that's familar to anyone who uses Windows If you’re not that fussed about all the bells and whistles then you can buy one of the aforementioned trackers and get a good understanding of your fitness level. But the Microsoft Band 2 is more tailored to those serious about fitness and improving their health, rather than just hitting 15,000 steps each day. Especially as it comes in at a hefty £200. It's size and design makes it a little ungainly, but the excellent software and sheer amount of features mean that it's an excellent piece of wearable technology for the 21st century fitness fanatic.