Microsoft Band Tip: Develop a Charging Strategy

Microsoft Band does more than other fitness bands and is practically bristling with sensors. But the downside to this power is that it needs to be charged more frequently. I recommend doing so every day if possible, and developing a charging strategy that makes sense for your own schedule.

Note: This tip is based on content in my free e-book, Microsoft Band Field Guide, which I'm currently writing. You can always find the latest version of this book—which will be updated as Microsoft Band is updated—at the Field Guide Books web site.

When you take Microsoft Band out of the box for the first time, you should immediately charge it using the supplied cable and be prepared to charge it every day or, if you're lucky, every other day. You will need to supply a USB power plug, such as the one provided with your smart phone, to charge Band using the supplied cable.

(Later, you can alternatively plug it in your PC or Mac and use the Microsoft Band sync app for Windows (desktop) or Mac, and sync Band data while charging.)

Microsoft claims that Band gets up to 48 hours of battery life, but in my experience with the default settings, real-world battery life is closer to 32-36 hours. So my advice is to charge Band every day if possible. Indeed, the more often you charge Band, the less you'll need to charge it each time. So it makes sense to develop a daily routine.

I recommend charging Band every day. Some obvious times include:

- While you're taking a shower

- During an hour or so of downtime at work each day

- While eating breakfast

- During some other similar regularly-scheduled event

- If you're not using the Band's sleep monitoring functionality, simply charge it each night when you're asleep