New or old Magic Bands

[Belleandtinker]

Besides selecting a different color, why do I need to order new magic bands? Can I use the old ones?

 

[Polydweller]

You don’t have to have new ones, especially if the bands are less than 2-3 years old. The bands have 2 rfid chips in them, one passive that will last basically forever and is used for park entrance, opening resort room doors, paying for purchases etc., really anything where you have to touch the band to a reader.
The other is a battery powered rfid that is used for longer distance things like identifying you for pictures on rides. It’s battery last about 2 years according to Disney. So, if you want those things and the band is over 2 years old then you might consider a new one otherwise not necessary.

 

[Disneypro1]

They are free. Just get new.

 

[MarkinNM]

If you have a "limited" run band or just like a certain one then it will work for everything but the ride pics, that is the reason why it needs some kind of power, battery, but the so called RF ID, or simply put computer chip in the band should work indefinitely as long as it does not get smashed or dropped too hard, the chip will last a long time......

 

[starrysky]

I’ve used all my bands from my various trips since they first came out a few years ago. I’m not bothered about ride photos so I tend to use the one that match my outfit that day as I have now got all the colours. I’ve never had a problem using them to get into the parks, FP or charging

 

[BabybetterDisney]

Always get one new one for each trip, but also bring at least one old one for each person. That way, you got it covered. You never know when Disney might come up with some new feature in the magic bands. New trip, new band! My magic bands always look very worn and disgusting after a trip and new ones, though not necessary, are nice.

And make sure mark the magic bands you don't use are marked "inactive" in your MDE account. Too many active magic bands may give you trouble.

 

[Pmlocke]

My old bands are my souvenir of that trip. I write the date on the inside of the band for the time we were there. The next trip I always get a new band. You are paying for it (nothing is free in this world) so why not get another souvenir?

 

[Jcon]

My old bands are my souvenir of that trip. I write the date on the inside of the band for the time we were there. The next trip I always get a new band. You are paying for it (nothing is free in this world) so why not get another souvenir?

That's a good idea! I usually put the year in when I'm personalizing it.