Hi there, Monica, and welcome to planDisney!
What a great question that you're asking! Planning a visit to the Happiest Place on Earth can be a little daunting with all the details and options available, so please let me try and make things a little easier for you and explain the difference between Genie+ and MagicBand+. They are very different items, so it's a little like comparing churros to turkey legs, but I'll try my best!
Both of these items are purchases that are meant to enhance your visit to the Disneyland Resort. They are by no means necessary to have for your visit, but they will "plus" your vacation significantly. Ultimately, they are meant to streamline and make your day more efficient, plus offer a few fun extras.
- Genie+ is a virtual purchase that may be added when you buy your tickets or through the Disneyland Mobile App after entering the Park on the day of your visit. It is the evolution of Disneyland's MaxPass system, which allowed Guests to book multiple FastPasses throughout the day. With Genie+, you are allowed to book Lightning Lanes for certain attractions throughout both Parks and given a one hour window to return to the ride. A Cast Member will scan your ticket to redeem your Lightning Lane and Guests can thereby skip the standby queue, ultimately saving time and packing a lot more into one day! You may book a new Lightning Lane either after redeeming your current one or two hours after booking a previous reservation. All PhotoPass pictures are also included on the day of your purchase, which is a fantastic perk! Please note that Individual Lightning Lanes are separate from regular Lightning Lanes and are not included with Genie+.
- MagicBand+ is a physical device which is worn on your wrist like a watch. It may be purchased before your trip at shopdisney.com or at these locations within the Resort. Please note that only MagicBand+ is currently supported at the Disneyland Resort. Once you link your account and ticket to your MagicBand+, you may use it to scan your ticket instead of having to take out your phone. It may also be used when you scan into Lightning Lanes. As you can see, it adds way more convenience to your visit! There are also interactive experiences scattered throughout the Parks where your MagicBand+ will light up and vibrate. If you've ever wanted to channel Boba Fett, head over to Galaxy's Edge and participate in Star Wars: Batuu Bounty Hunters!
While you're there, be sure to check out the Food & Wine Festival being held at Disney California Adventure. Everything detailed in the Foodie Guide looks so good! Mickey's Toontown will have just re-opened for your visit and I'd highly recommend a ride on Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway. I always walk out humming "Nothing Can Stop Us Now."
Monica, I hope that I was able to clear up some confusion for you and that you have a wonderful visit to the Happiest Place on Earth! Please come back and see us again if you have any more questions!
Have a Magical Day!
-Al