Hello there, Amanda!
I'm so glad you stopped by planDisney with a question for us today. Consider me your faithful sidekick like Ariel's Flounder splashing by with some helpful information, or Belle's Lumière ready to illuminate the details with a dash of magic (and maybe a musical number if you're really lucky).
MagicBand and MagicBand+ are very similar technologies with a few subtle differences. First and foremost, both versions can be used at Walt Disney World Resort, but only MagicBand+ can be used at
Disneyland Resort. MagicBand is the original hands-free band allowing guests a convenient way to access the theme parks, unlock their
Disney Resorts Collection hotel room, link Disney PhotoPass photos, and even make purchases at participating locations across Walt Disney World Resort.
MagicBand+ is the newer updated version which also features the same benefits PLUS some magical interactions around the parks and during nighttime spectaculars. You'll be able to link your admission to either option, but you'll enjoy some enhanced light and haptic vibration features if you opt for MagicBand+. My family especially enjoyed the interactions during
Fantasmic! on our April visit.
MagicBand+ also features a greater number of colors and themed designs than its predecessor in addition to a unique bounty hunting experience in
Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge. My friend and fellow panelist
Al shared some helpful tips for making the most of this game when visiting Disney's Hollywood Studios. Keep in mind that MagicBand+ will need to be fully charged in order to access all its magical features.
Did you know that you'll also be able to use MagicBand+ as a
DisneyBand+ on Disney Wish, Disney Fantasy, Disney Magic, and coming soon to Disney Dream? If you plan to sail toward the line where to sky meets the sea aboard
Disney Cruise Line at some point in the future, then MagicBand+ will be your best bet.
I hope this was helpful, Amanda. If I can answer any additional questions or offer further recommendations please don't hesitate to come back and ask me directly. I'm wishing you a most magical vacation whether by land or sea. I'll be working on my musical number until then.
Magic and memories,
Amy