Samsung Gear S vs Moto 360 Comparison: Review of Specs, Features - Battle Of Smartwatches

Jeiniel Silvestre Wednesday, November 05, 2014

Despite still being unavailable in the market, the Samsung Gear S and the Motorola Moto 360 smartwatches are already engaged in a matchup.

The Moto 360 is 1.56 inches in diameter, has a 1GHz processor, 512 RAM and 4GB internal storage. It also has wireless Qi charging capabilities.

On the other hand, the Gear S is powered by a 1GHz processor, contains 512 RAM and has 4GB internal storage. It also has a 2-inch curved AMOLED display, which is one of the biggest among smartwatches.

Generally, the two watches have similar features. But the main difference between them lies in their operating system. The Samsung Gear S runs on Tizen, while the Motorola Moto 360 uses the Android Wear.

Because of Tizen, the Gear S will be able to function as a mostly stand-alone smartwatch, a step up from most smartwatches that need to be paired up to phone units to be able to relay information, such as the Moto 360.

Gear S and Tizen allows users to take phone calls and send messages straight from the device. It also has its own GPS, 3G radio and Wi-Fi capabilities. The only times Gear S will require a paired smartphone is in the event of initial startup or if users want to download apps.

The Motorola Moto 360, on the other hand, has a distinct design with a round-type face similar to traditional wrist watches. It stands out with its shape compared to the Gear S and many other smartwatches that use a square-type design.

However, being a stand-alone watch would require the use of more battery power. Hence, there is a chance that the Gear S will have lesser battery life than the Moto 360. The Moto 360 has the added benefit of an Android phone to shoulder its functions. It is also compatible with any device that runs on Android v4.5 or higher no matter the make and model.

Interested parties will have to wait for the release of the watches before comparing them. The Samsung Gear S is set for release on Nov. 7, while the Motorola Moto 360 has been released in the UK and is awaiting release in Australia after being delayed.