Apple Watch vs Moto 360
Apple announced three products at its long-anticipated event on September 9: the larger-screen iPhone 6, the iPhone 6 Plus, and the Apple Watch. The Apple Watch is Apple’s first new product in four years and may be among the best wearables currently available. This article compares it with the popular, design-focused Moto 360, placing two different platforms and design philosophies side by side.
When Tim Cook introduced the device with "One More Thing," it drew sustained applause. Reactions to the actual product name—Apple Watch rather than the rumored "iWatch"—were mixed. Some observers expressed relief, while traditional Swiss watchmakers may view the result as unlikely to displace them.
The author was not present at the event but reviewed the publicly available materials and hands-on reports to produce this comparison.
Design: Moto 360's round face is favored
The Apple Watch uses a rounded-rectangle design similar to the iPhone 6/6s, while the Moto 360 adopts a circular dial that more closely resembles a traditional wristwatch. For many users and reviewers, a smartwatch should first function and feel like a watch on the wrist; the Moto 360’s round face is a major reason for its popularity, rather than any single feature set.
Apple Watch (left) and Moto 360 (right): screen design comparison (CNET, US).
Both devices exhibit high-quality build and metal bezels with careful attention to detail. Early hands-on reports describe the Apple Watch as comfortable to wear. The Apple Watch’s rounded corners represent a departure from earlier iPhone styling and may feel unfamiliar to some users.
Media and consumers reacted to the Apple Watch’s appearance with varying levels of tolerance. Compared with the Moto 360, some found the Apple Watch’s appearance less harmonious with traditional watch aesthetics.
Controls: Digital crown central to Apple Watch
The Apple Watch has a digital crown and a side button on the right side of the case. The Moto 360 also includes a crown that serves as the power switch. At Apple’s event, the digital crown was presented as a key interaction element and a central component of the user experience.
Case and strap options: Apple Watch offers more combinations
Apple provides two case sizes—1.5 inches (38 mm) and 1.65 inches (42 mm)—and three collections: Apple Watch, Sport, and Edition. Case materials include stainless steel, anodized aluminum, and 18K gold. Apple offers multiple band types: link (stainless steel), sport (rubber), loop (leather), classic buckle (leather), modern buckle (leather), and Milanese (metal), yielding many official combinations.
By contrast, the Moto 360 offers a simpler selection: a single dial size, black and silver case colors, and strap choices of leather or stainless steel, with the leather variants available in several colors.
Overall, both platforms provide a range of strap and case options. Apple’s lineup is broader and leans toward premium finishes, including an 18K gold edition. The Moto 360 presents a more traditionally masculine aesthetic that some users may prefer, while Apple’s band and color variety target a wider consumer base.
Weight: Moto 360 is lighter
Although the Moto 360 appears larger, it weighs about 58 g, compared with roughly 75 g for the Apple Watch. Weight and perceived size are significant factors when choosing a wrist-worn device.
When appearance and ergonomics matter most, many reviewers find the Moto 360 more visually appealing and broadly popular. The Apple Watch’s design choices generated considerable discussion, but individual preference will determine which watch is more suitable.
