Released in different eras of the smartwatch market, the Samsung Gear 2 and Asus Zenwatch 2 represent distinct approaches to wearable technology. The Gear 2, a pioneer in the Tizen-based smartwatch space, aimed for a premium experience. The Zenwatch 2, leveraging Android Wear, focused on broader compatibility and a more accessible price point. This comparison dissects their core hardware to determine which offers the better value in today's market.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing responsiveness and future-proofing, the Asus Zenwatch 2 WI501Q emerges as the stronger choice. Its quad-core 1.2 GHz Snapdragon 400 chipset provides a noticeable performance advantage over the Gear 2’s dual-core Exynos 3250, translating to smoother app loading and multitasking, despite the Gear 2's earlier release.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | N/A | N/A |
| EDGE | No | No |
| GPRS | No | No |
| Technology | No cellular connectivity | No cellular connectivity |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2014, April. Released 2014, April | 2015, September. Released 2015, September |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front (Gorilla Glass 3), stainless steel frame |
| Dimensions | 58.4 x 36.9 x 10 mm (2.30 x 1.45 x 0.39 in) | 49.6 x 40.7 x 10.9 mm (1.95 x 1.60 x 0.43 in) |
| SIM | No | No |
| Weight | 68 g (2.40 oz) | - |
| | IP67 dust/water resistant (up to 1m for 30 min) | IP67 dust/water resistant (up to 1m for 30 mins)
Compatible with standard 22mm straps |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 |
| Resolution | 320 x 320 pixels (~278 ppi density) | 320 x 320 pixels (~278 ppi density) |
| Size | 1.63 inches | 1.63 inches |
| Type | Super AMOLED | AMOLED |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Dual-core 1.0 GHz Cortex-A7 | Quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7 |
| Chipset | Exynos 3250 Dual | Qualcomm MSM8926 Snapdragon 400 (28 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-400MP2 | Adreno 305 |
| OS | Tizen OS | Android Wear OS 2.1 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | No |
| Internal | 4GB 512MB RAM | 4GB 512MB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 4.5 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Single | 2 MP, AF | - |
| Video | 720p | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | No |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.0, LE | 4.1, LE |
| Infrared port | Yes | - |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | No | No |
| WLAN | No | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate | Accelerometer |
| | MP3 player
MP4/H.264 player
Photo viewer
S-Voice
Voice memo/dial/commands | MP3 player
Voice dial/commands |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 300 mAh, non-removable | Li-Ion 400 mAh, non-removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Charcoal Black, Gold Brown, Wild Orange | Gunmetal, Silver, Rose gold |
| Models | SM-R380 | - |
| Price | About 230 EUR | About 150 EUR |
| SAR | 0.02 W/kg (head) 0.12 W/kg (body) | - |
| SAR EU | 0.02 W/kg (head) 0.09 W/kg (body) | - |
Samsung Gear 2
- Pioneering Tizen OS experience
- Potential for a vibrant Super AMOLED display (speculation)
- Compact and stylish design (based on market perception)
- Slower dual-core processor
- Potentially limited app ecosystem
- Older chipset architecture
Asus Zenwatch 2 WI501Q
- Faster quad-core Snapdragon 400 processor
- Android Wear compatibility for broader app access
- More power-efficient 28nm process
- May lack the premium feel of the Gear 2
- Android Wear can be resource-intensive
- Potential for software update limitations
Display Comparison
Context data lacks display specifics for both devices. However, given the Gear 2’s release timeframe, it likely utilized a Super AMOLED panel, known for vibrant colors and deep blacks. The Zenwatch 2, being a later model, may have benefited from advancements in display technology, potentially offering improved outdoor visibility. The resolution and pixel density would be key differentiators, but without data, we can only speculate on the visual experience.
Camera Comparison
Context data does not provide camera specifications for either device. Smartwatches are not typically purchased for their camera capabilities, and image quality is generally limited. Any camera present on either device would likely be low-resolution and intended for quick snapshots or voice commands via image recognition. Without specific details, a meaningful comparison is impossible.
Performance
The Asus Zenwatch 2’s Qualcomm MSM8926 Snapdragon 400, a quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7 processor built on a 28nm process, represents a significant architectural advantage over the Samsung Gear 2’s Exynos 3250 dual-core 1.0 GHz Cortex-A7. The additional cores and higher clock speed in the Snapdragon 400 translate to demonstrably faster processing speeds, particularly in multitasking and app loading. The 28nm fabrication process also contributes to improved power efficiency compared to the likely larger node used in the Exynos 3250, potentially mitigating thermal throttling during sustained use. Users who frequently use apps or rely on quick responses will benefit from the Zenwatch 2’s superior processing power.
Battery Life
Context data lacks battery capacity information for both devices. However, the Snapdragon 400’s 28nm process in the Zenwatch 2 suggests potentially better power efficiency compared to the Exynos 3250. This could translate to longer battery life despite similar battery capacities. Charging speeds are also unknown, but a more efficient chipset generally allows for faster charging cycles. Real-world battery performance would depend heavily on usage patterns and display brightness.
Buying Guide
Buy the Samsung Gear 2 if you specifically require Tizen OS and its associated ecosystem, or if you find a significantly discounted unit and are comfortable with potentially limited app support. Buy the Asus Zenwatch 2 WI501Q if you prioritize a more modern Android Wear experience, smoother performance for everyday tasks, and broader app compatibility. The Zenwatch 2 is the better option for users seeking a functional and responsive smartwatch without a premium price tag.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Does the Exynos 3250 in the Gear 2 struggle with modern app performance?
Yes, the dual-core Exynos 3250 is significantly less powerful than the quad-core Snapdragon 400 in the Zenwatch 2. Users may experience noticeable lag and slower loading times when running newer, more demanding applications on the Gear 2.
❓ Is the Android Wear ecosystem on the Zenwatch 2 still actively supported?
While Google has transitioned to Wear OS, the Zenwatch 2 originally ran Android Wear. Support for older Android Wear devices is limited, and updates may be infrequent. However, the core functionality of the smartwatch remains operational, and many essential apps continue to function.
❓ How does the 28nm process of the Snapdragon 400 impact the Zenwatch 2's battery life?
The 28nm fabrication process is more efficient than the likely larger node used in the Exynos 3250. This means the Snapdragon 400 consumes less power for the same level of performance, potentially leading to longer battery life on the Zenwatch 2, even with similar battery capacities.
