carbonsteeledition
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A closer look at Basis' new, more comfortable fitness band (hands-on)
Basis' new fitness band, dubbed the Carbon Steel Edition, is much more comfortable than the original. And that's not just me parroting the company's marketing materials: I've been testing the original B1 band for weeks now, so I should know better than anyone how much better this new one is. Though the press materials would make it seem like this is basically the old B1 with a new wristband, it's now covered in chrome accents (can you really call a faceplate an "accent"?). So, while the overall shape remains the same, and though the screen still has a touch-sensitive pins in each corner, it has a more premium look than it did before. It's no Pebble, to be sure, but it's nonetheless a step in the right direction. Even without that metal overcoat, though, this would have been a big improvement if only thanks to the wristband. In brief, it has a much softer finish than the rubbery plastic used in the B1. It rests more comfortably against the skin, and is stretchier too, allowing for a snugger fit. Even some retooled hinges allow the band to curl around your wrist a little more naturally. I can't overstate how important that is: right now, I barely even take advantage of the B1's sleep tracking capabilities because by the time bedtime rolls around, I've grown weary of having an uncomfortable band strapped to my wrist.
