MagicBand vs MagicBand+

Ever since MagicBand+ was released, many guests have had lots of questions. Is it the same as the previous version of MagicBand? Is it worth the money? How is it different than the previous version of MagicBand? Luckily, we’ve got the answers for you! Here are some similarities and differences between the two.

Common Features

Both MagicBand and MagicBand+ have many similar basic features. They are both very convenient, user friendly, and they help make your Disney vacation a lot easier. With both versions, you can enter your Disney World hotel room, purchase food and merchandise (if staying on property), enter the theme parks and water parks, and you are able to make Lightning Lane reservations through Disney Genie+.

Usage

While both can be reused, within a few years MagicBand will lose its charge and need to be replaced. MagicBand+ is rechargeable and even comes with its own charging cable. However, this new version tends to lose its charge semi-quickly depending on how often you use it, especially when partaking in park missions.

Interactive

When it comes to interactivity, there is only one choice – MagicBand+. Unfortunately, the original does not offer any unique interactive features. MagicBand+ offers a variety of fun, interactive features such as being able to interact with certain things around the parks – including the golden 50^th anniversary statues, virtual bounties in Galaxy’s Edge, and more!

One of the coolest features is that it interacts with the fireworks shows! It will light up and interact with Disney Enchantment at Magic Kingdom and Harmonious at Epcot! There are also certain gestures that will unlock little magical surprises throughout the parks. The lights change colors and it also vibrates. If you want to experience a little bit of magic at home, it also interacts with Amazon Alexa!

Price & Designs

Pricing for a basic, single-color MagicBand starts at $19.99 (before tax) and depending on the design, can cost upwards of $60. There are many special designs to choose from for the original since it has been around longer. Pricing for a basic, single-color MagicBand+ starts at $29.99 (before tax) depending on the color and design. There aren’t as many colors and designs to choose from as of right now, but there will be. The extra $10 cost will give you a lot more interactivity. If that is something that is important to you, this may be the route to go.

Overall

While they are both very similar, it is the differences that stand out the most when deciding which one to buy. The great thing about the original MagicBand is that I don’t need to charge it or worry about it while on vacation. It’s low maintenance and gets the job done. If you only visit the parks once a year, there is really no need to spend more money on MagicBand+. On the other hand, if you are looking to add a little more magic to your vacation, MagicBand+ is the way to go. Whichever one you choose, you will be happy because you’ll be at Walt Disney World!

Are you team MagicBand or MagicBand+?

View more Disney content here. You can also read more about this new Disney product here!

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