Both devices share the same underlying sensor package, but the Pulse Band is aimed squarely at more structured athletic training, while the Pulse Loop (reviewed in full here) is built around everyday activity and sleep tracking. Here’s how to choose between them.
GPS: the headline difference
The Pulse Band includes built-in GPS, allowing accurate outdoor run and ride tracking without a phone. The Pulse Loop relies entirely on a connected phone’s GPS, which is a meaningful limitation for runners who prefer to leave their phone at home.
Sport-specific tracking modes
The Pulse Band ships with over 40 sport-specific tracking profiles (swimming, cycling, strength training with rep counting) versus the Loop’s more limited set focused on walking, running, and general activity. Serious multi-sport athletes will notice this gap quickly.
Battery life trade-off
The Pulse Band’s additional GPS chip and sensors bring battery life down to roughly 3 days versus the Loop’s 5+ days in real-world testing — a meaningful difference for anyone who dislikes frequent charging.
Comfort and form factor
The Loop’s smaller size makes it noticeably more comfortable for continuous 24/7 wear, particularly overnight, while the Band’s slightly larger case (needed for the GPS antenna) is a minor but noticeable difference during sleep tracking.
Verdict
Choose the Pulse Band if you train for specific sports and want standalone GPS tracking. Choose the Pulse Loop if your priority is comfortable 24/7 wear, sleep tracking, and general daily activity monitoring over structured athletic training.
Frequently asked questions
Can the Pulse Loop track running distance accurately without GPS?
It uses accelerometer-based distance estimation when not paired with a phone, which is reasonably accurate for steady pacing but less precise than GPS for routes with frequent turns or elevation changes.