MagicBand+: What’s New and Other FAQs?

Now that you know all about the base features of the original MagicBand discussed in this post: MagicBands: Everything You Need to Know, you now may be wondering what other features the newer MagicBand+ has to offer!

Is the MagicBand+ the same as the original MagicBand?

MagicBand+ offers all of the same features as the original with additional interactive features.
Perhaps one of the first noticeable differences between the two are that the MB+ has a rechargeable battery, whereas the original MB is powered by an RFID chip that does not require charging. This also means the MB+ has light up features whereas the original MB does not light up at all.
Both versions of the band can be used to:

• Enter the parks with a linked ticket or annual pass and reservation
• Enter Lightning Lanes with linked reservation
• Check-in for reserved dining
• Enter resort gates or your hotel or hotels where you have dining reservations
• Enter theme park parking lots with a linked park reservation
• Unlock Walt Disney World Resort hotel rooms and pool areas
• Pay for purchases throughout the park when staying at a WDW Resort hotel

All of these features can be used even when the battery on the band is not charged.

What are the additional features of the MagicBand+?

The MagicBand+ includes additional features that will require battery charging to use.
Your band will light up and vibrate along with fireworks displays at Walt Disney World parks. You can also activate these features by waving at interactive statues throughout the parks.
You can use your bands to participate in a scavenger hunt or play the Star Wars: Batuu Bounty Hunters game in Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

How long does the battery last on MagicBand+?

According to Walt Disney World’s website, the battery on your band can last 1-3 days. If you use the interactive features often, this will reduce the daily battery life. Interactive games, in particular, will use up a good amount of battery.
It is always smart to charge your band each evening and consider bringing as backup battery pack (2-pack on Amazon) to charge during the day. The MagicBand+ comes with a USB charging cord.

What is the cost?

MagicBand+ start at $34.99 for basic color options and $44.99 for designs. Limited edition or designer options will typically cost more than the standard pricing.

Can I use the original MagicBand instead?

Original MagicBands are no longer sold. If you already have original MagicBands you can continue to use them for future bookings. Just be sure they are linked to your account in your My Disney Experience App!

Should I get a MagicBand+ for my toddler?

Toddlers under 3 do not require tickets for Walt Disney World theme parks and therefore would not need their own MagicBands. For children 3 and over, tickets and reservations are required but bands are optional, as they are for all guests.
You may wish to get bands for your toddler and can do so whether they have their own ticket or not. A MagicBand+ does not need a linked ticket in oder to enjoy the interactive features.
However, if you wish to save money a card will be given to each person in your party with a ticket and the card can be used for all of the same features as an original MagicBand!