Fitness bands are slim wrist trackers that count steps, monitor heart rate and sleep, and log workouts, which suits anyone who wants activity data without the bulk of a full smartwatch. Our small range comes mainly from HUAWEI and XIAOMI, with models from DENVER and BLACKVIEW as well.
How to choose a fitness band
Battery life. Most fitness bands last several days on a charge, and many manage a week or more, because their screens and processors are small. Check the stated battery life with the always-on display and continuous heart rate monitoring switched on, as these settings shorten it noticeably.
Display and size. Many current bands use a colour AMOLED screen, which is easier to read in sunlight than a basic monochrome display. A larger screen shows more text from notifications, but a narrow band is more comfortable to wear overnight for sleep tracking.
Health and sports tracking. Heart rate and sleep tracking are standard, while blood oxygen readings and stress monitoring vary by model. If you run or cycle, look at how many workout modes the band offers and whether it has built-in GPS or relies on your phone for route tracking.
Water resistance. A water resistance rating tells you whether the band can handle rain and handwashing or is suitable for swimming. Look for a rating stated in metres or ATM, and read what the manufacturer says about pool use, since splash resistance alone is not enough for swimming.
Phone compatibility. Bands work through a companion app, and that app decides how your data is displayed and stored. Confirm that the band supports your phone's operating system (Android or iOS) before you buy, as some features may be limited on one of them.
Fitness band brands we carry
- HUAWEI: known for its Band series, which pairs long battery life with sleep and heart rate tracking through the Huawei Health app.
- XIAOMI: best known for the Smart Band line (formerly Mi Band), which offers AMOLED displays and a large number of sports modes in a slim, light body.
Also in our range: DENVER and BLACKVIEW.
Fitness bands: frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a fitness band and a smartwatch?
A fitness band is smaller, lighter and focused on activity and health tracking, while a smartwatch usually has a larger screen and more apps. Bands generally last longer between charges. If you mainly want step counts, sleep data and workout logging, a band is usually enough.
How long does a fitness band battery last?
Most fitness bands last from several days to around two weeks, depending on the model and how you use it. Always-on displays, continuous heart rate tracking and built-in GPS all drain the battery faster. The manufacturer's stated figure is normally measured under light use.
Can I swim with a fitness band?
You can swim with a band only if its water resistance rating allows it. A rating such as 5 ATM is generally considered suitable for pool swimming, whereas basic splash resistance is not. Check the specification for each model and rinse the band after swimming in chlorinated or salt water.
Do fitness bands work with both Android and iPhone?
Most fitness bands work with both Android and iPhone through a companion app, but features can differ between the two. Notification handling and replying to messages are common examples. Check the compatibility details for the specific model before buying.
