Moto 360 2nd Gen Review
Moto 360 2nd Gen
A stylish, customizable Android Wear smartwatch that refines its predecessor's design while struggling with persistent display and performance limitations.
How This Score Is Calculated
- Sources analysed: 5 reviews
- Sentiment-only: 5 sources (weighted 1.0×)
- Split: 2 Positive · 2 Mixed · 1 Negative
- Raw weighted average: 6.4
- Formula: Σ(score × weight) ÷ Σ(weight)
- Review period: 2015-2016
- Final score: 6.4/10 (clamped, rounded to 1 decimal)
Algorithmically calculated from source data. No manual adjustments.
- Most reviewed featureDisplay 'Flat Tire' (5/5)
- Most praisedDesign/Customization
- Most criticisedFlat tire display design
- Reviewer consensus levelModerate
The Moto 360 2nd Gen is widely praised for its premium, highly customizable aesthetics and improved build quality over the original. However, it is consistently held back by the 'flat tire' display cutout and inconsistent software performance. While it stands out as a stylish accessory, it struggles to justify its price compared to competitors that offer fully round displays and more robust feature sets.
🔧 Key Specifications
Specifications sourced from reviewer mentions. Verify with manufacturer for complete details.
- Display: Round with 'flat tire' black bar cutout
- Charging: Wireless charging dock included
- Strap: Easily interchangeable/detachable
- Microphone: Included (voice command support)
- NFC: No
- GPS: No integrated GPS
📊 What Reviewers Say — Feature by Feature
3 features evaluated across 5 sources.
👍 Key Strengths
- Premium, attractive design
- Excellent customization options
- Easily swappable watch straps
- Convenient wireless charging dock
👎 Key Weaknesses
- Persistent 'flat tire' display cutout
- Inconsistent software performance
- Poor leather strap quality
- Lacks NFC for payments
- No integrated GPS
💰 Value for Money Analysis
Reviewers frequently express that the device is too expensive given its limited functionality and design flaws. The price increases associated with customization options further impact the perceived value, especially in markets like India.
3 of 5 sources commented on price or value.
🎯 Who This Product Is For
Reviewer recommendations for different target audiences and use cases.
🛠️ Best Use Cases
- Styling AccessoryExcellent for users who want a watch that looks like a traditional timepiece with interchangeable straps.Great
- Basic NotificationsAdequate for handling standard Android Wear notifications, provided the software does not crash.OK
🔀 Alternatives Mentioned by Reviewers
Maximise this list. Include EVERY single competitor, rival, or alternative product mentioned in any of the source reviews. Do not omit any. More alternatives and longer lists are better.
- Huawei Watch — Consistently mentioned as the primary competitor, cited for having a superior, fully round display that lacks the 'flat tire' cutout of the Moto 360 2nd Gen. Reviewers suggest it is the better choice for those who want a more premium aesthetic without design compromises.
Alternatives sourced exclusively from reviewer mentions.
🛒 Buyer's Guide
✅ Buy This If…
- You prioritize design and customization above all else.
- You value the convenience of a dedicated wireless charging dock.
- You appreciate the ability to easily swap straps for different occasions.
❌ Skip This If…
- The 'flat tire' display aesthetic bothers you.
- You require advanced features like NFC for payments or integrated GPS.
- You are sensitive to price-to-performance value, as this is considered expensive for its tier.
The Moto 360 2nd Gen is a case of style over substance, offering a beautiful design and excellent customization options that are ultimately undermined by its infamous 'flat tire' screen bezel and inconsistent performance. While it is a significant improvement over the first generation, it falls short of being a top-tier choice in a market where competitors offer more refined hardware. Unless you are deeply invested in the Motorola aesthetic, the Huawei Watch is the recommended alternative for a truly round, high-end experience.
Top Alternative: Huawei Watch — Offers a fully round display and more premium build quality without the 'flat tire' design flaw.
Reviewer Perspectives & Source Breakdown
Moto 360 2nd Gen Review (2016) | Beebom - beebom.com...
The Moto 360 2nd Gen is an aesthetically pleasing smartwatch that offers design improvements, but it is held back by inconsistent performance, an unfinished software experience, and a persistent display 'shelf'. It serves as a stylish accessory but lacks the polish and robustness expected at its price point.
Pros
- Attractive and premium design
- Available in two sizes
- Easily detachable straps
- Comfortable to wear
Cons
- Persistent 'flat tyre' black bar on the display
- Poor leather band quality
- Inconsistent touchscreen responsiveness
- Laggy performance and software crashes
Motorola Moto 360 (2015) 2nd gen review - India Today - indiatoday.in...
The Motorola Moto 360 2nd gen is a stylish and responsive upgrade that refines its predecessor's design, though it still suffers from some functional limitations. While it remains one of the better Android Wear options, it faces stiff competition in a crowded market.
Pros
- Sleek and attractive design
- Improved performance and responsiveness
- Easily interchangeable watch straps
- Convenient wireless charging dock
Cons
- Jarring flat tire display design
- Lacks integrated GPS
- Limited functionality of Android Wear
- Occasional software glitches
Moto 360 (2nd Gen.) review - androidauthority.com...
The Moto 360 (2nd Gen) is a compelling smartwatch offering improved design, customization options, and solid performance. Despite minor microphone issues and a returning "flat tire" screen bezel, it remains a strong competitor in the Android Wear market.
Pros
- Premium look and feel with updated design
- Easily replaceable watch straps
- Smaller size option now available
- Fantastic wireless charging implementation
Cons
- Microphone struggles to recognize voice prompts
- Infamous "flat tire" screen cutout persists
- Price increases with preferred customization
Expensive smartwatch for so less functionality - MOTOROLA MOTO 360 2ND G...
The Motorola Moto 360 2nd Gen is considered expensive for its limited functionality and suffers from design flaws like the 'flat tire' display. It offers some convenience through wireless charging but falls short compared to competitors.
Pros
- Convenient wireless charger included
Cons
- Too expensive in the Indian market
- Ugly flat rubber tire display element
- Poor battery life of only one day
- Leather strap wears out very quickly
Moto 360 2nd Gen review: Motorola's round smartwatch | Expert Reviews - ...
The Moto 360 2nd Gen is a highly customizable and improved Android smartwatch that remains a top contender despite its persistent flat-tire display design.
Pros
- Excellent customization options
- Choice of two sizes
- Solid battery life
Cons
- Persistent flat-tire display design
- No NFC for payments
- Leather strap wears quickly