Comparison KingWear KW98 vs KingWear KW88

The operating system installed on the gadget itself.

In this case, we do not mean basic firmware, but rather a full-fledged OS that provides extensive capabilities. For example, allowing you to install additional applications or functionally tailored for close integration with certain web services. The most popular operating system options for wrist gadgets are presented below:

– Android. The Android mobile OS is known mainly for smartphones and tablets, but its open source code allows it to be optimized for other devices, including wrist devices. Note that traditional Android applications are generally poorly compatible with wrist gadgets, but some programs are able to automatically adapt to such devices, and specialized software is also produced for certain models (often by the manufacturers themselves).

– WatchOS. An operating system specially designed for Apple wrist gadgets and used only in them. Among the key features, it is worth noting support for the Siri voice assistant and the Apple Pay system, a set of fitness tools, as well as a high degree of optimization for Apple Watch controls. WatchOS uses its own applications, which can also be created by third-party developers.

– Wear OS. The system formerly known as Android Wear. This is a specific version of Android, originally developed as a solution for “smart” wrist gadgets. It features a radically...redesigned interface, close integration with the Google Assistant voice assistant, and so-called proactive notifications. Thanks to the latter, the device is able to independently, without a request, issue extended tips for a certain situation: for example, before an important meeting, plot a route on the map taking into account traffic jams and, if necessary, turn on a reminder earlier than the originally planned time.

— Nucleus. Quite a rare and unusual “OS”: it does not belong to a general-purpose OS, but to real-time systems. Such systems are optimized for the fastest possible response to external events (whereas in conventional operating systems the reaction occurs depending on the distribution of resources). Specifically, Nucleus has all the capabilities necessary for wrist gadgets, however, for a number of reasons, such firmware is quite rare.

— Tizen. An open operating system for mobile devices, primarily promoted by Samsung. As with Android, the original Tizen is poorly suited for smartwatches, so we usually talk about a special version of Tizen Wearable. It is worth noting that there are tools that allow you to run Android applications on devices running this OS.

– ColorOS. A system developed by OPPO and used in its mobile devices. Directly for smart watches, the operating system is presented in the form of ColorOS Watch - the system interface is optimized for use on small screens and includes tools for tracking the user’s physical activity, monitoring sleep and health, managing notifications, etc. Moreover, smartwatches powered by ColorOS Watch can serve as a digital key for some modern Chinese-made cars.

– HarmonyOS. Huawei's universal operating system, also known as Hongmeng. Provides operation of a wide range of devices: equipment from the smart home ecosystem, smart watches, smartphones and tablets. Onboard wearables, HarmonyOS is a redesigned version of the homegrown Lite OS used in Huawei watches and other low-end devices.

– Zepp OS. A specialized real-time system for Amazfit and Zepp smartwatches. It is an open platform for health management and activity tracking, based on the principles of ease, fluidity and practicality. One notable feature of the OS is support for cloud Internet service applications (like Spotify, SoundCloud, etc.).

– Lite OS. A lightweight system for wearable gadgets with limited computing power, used in some simple smartwatch models from Huawei. A more advanced version of the operating system for such devices from the manufacturer is HarmonyOS (see above).

– Fitbit OS. An operating system developed for Fitbit wrist gadgets and used only in them. Fitbit OS supports the installation of various applications on smart watches, the system implements gesture control, and many widgets and watch faces have been released for it. The operating system also provides targeted exercise modes and the possibility of contactless payment for purchases in stores using the NFC chip of the watch using the Fitbit Pay program.

– Moto Watch OS. Proprietary software for Motorola smart watches from the category of real-time systems. Moto Watch OS is designed with an eye toward accurate health tracking, the OS also collects information about user activity, supports receiving notifications from a connected smartphone, and ensures maximum battery life for the wearable gadget. Note that the operating system does not support installing applications from third-party developers - you will have to be content with pre-installed tools and programs.

– MagicOS. An operating system specially designed for Honor wrist gadgets and used only in them. In appearance and in terms of its set of capabilities, it is very similar to the related operating system HarmonyOS, which is found in Huawei wearable devices. It is argued that MagicOS has its own philosophy and development vector.

– BlueOS. Vivo's own OS, which can run a wide range of devices - from mobile phones and tablets to smart watches. In fact, the system’s debut took place on board wearable gadgets in 2023. The “operating system” is written in the Rust programming language with an emphasis on maximum protection of user data. A distinctive feature of BlueOS is generative artificial intelligence. Thus, Vivo smart watches have already implemented the function of creating dials by voice with the participation of AI.

– HyperOS. A unified Linux-based operating system for Xiaomi smart devices. But if in mobile phones HyperOS has replaced the proprietary MIUI shell, then in the smartwatch segment this is something new. The emphasis in Xiaomi's operating system is on the close interconnection of all devices running HyperOS within a single ecosystem.

Type of SIM card for which the gadget is designed. SIM cards are required for mobile communication modules, which are mainly found in watch phones and children's beacons (see "Type"). And their types can be:

— Micro-SIM. Reduced in size and improved, in comparison with the obsolete mini-SIM, a variety of SIM-cards: the dimensions were reduced to 15x12 mm, while the amount of built-in memory and the overall functionality of the chip were slightly expanded.

— Nano-SIM. The newest and smallest variety of replaceable SIM-cards: it has dimensions of only 12x9 mm.

It is worth noting that nowadays, most mobile operators sell SIM cards that are compatible with all three types of slots at once: the chip itself has a nano-SIM format, and such a card can be installed in a micro-SIM or mini-SIM slot using an adapter frame. So paying attention to the type of SIM card makes sense, first of all, if you already have a "sim card" of a strictly defined format and you do not want to change it.

A separate variety is represented by e-SIM(Embedded SIM) — non-removable modules that need to be programmed for a particular mobile operator. On the one hand, this creates some inconvenience: to change the number, changing the SIM card can be easier than reconfiguring the e-SIM. On the other hand, e-SIMs are more...compact and better suited for wearable gadgets, and when you change your number, you do not need to spend money on buying a new card. The compatibility of such a module with the network of a particular operator should be specified separately.

The clock speed of the processor (CPU) installed in the gadget.

Theoretically, a high clock speed has a positive effect on speed and performance; however, in fact, this parameter has a purely reference and promotional value. This is due to the fact that the real capabilities of the CPU depend on a number of other factors, and the overall performance of the system also depends on the properties of the rest of the hardware. In addition, manufacturers select processors in such a way that their performance is guaranteed to be sufficient, taking into account the planned specialization and functionality of the gadget. Therefore, when choosing this parameter, you can not pay much attention.

The presence of a slot for memory cards in the design of the gadget.

Such a slot allows you to expand the total amount of memory by supplementing the built-in storage (see above) with a replaceable card. And in some models, the built-in drive may not be available to the user at all (only basic firmware files are stored there), and the memory card is the only option for user storage.

The advantage of replaceable memory cards over built-in storage is that it is much cheaper in terms of gigabytes of volume; at the same time, cards are issued in different volumes, which allows you to choose the option that is optimal in terms of price and capacity. In addition, removable media can be used to exchange data with another device (smartphone, laptop, etc.) — although that wearable gadgets usually use miniature microSD cards, and devices like laptops use full-sized SD cards. Also note that these same microSD cards are presented on the market in several generations, and the compatibility of watches with a particular card needs to be specified separately.

— Built-in player. The presence of a player in the smartwatch allows you to use the gadget to listen to music. There is no need to connect to the phone for this. The songs will play directly from the watch. Therefore, these devices must necessarily have an impressive (as for a watch) amount of storage and be able to connect to headphones (for connection with headphones).

— Light sensor. A sensor that monitors the brightness of ambient light. One of the most popular ways to use this feature is to auto-adjust the brightness of the display: in bright light, it increases so that the image remains visible, and at dusk it decreases, which reduces eye strain and energy consumption. In addition, other more specific features may be provided — for example, turning on the screen when pulling back the sleeve of clothing.

— WiFi. A technology originally used to access the Internet via wireless access points, but more recently also used for direct communication between two devices (such a connection has several advantages over traditional Bluetooth). In wearable gadgets, the first option is most often provided, although the second is also found. However, the specific uses of Wi-Fi may be different depending on the device: accessing websites and various Internet services, remote communication with smart home systems, remote control of digital cameras and oth...er electronics, transmission of the GPS- coordinates via Internet (in children's beacons), etc.

— NFC. Wireless communication technology over short distances (up to 10 cm). The methods of its application, including in wearable devices, may be different. One of the more popular options is using contactless payment (see below); however, the presence of such a function does not hurt to verify separately. Another common feature is the simplification of Bluetooth connection with a smartphone or tablet that also has NFC: instead of manual configuration, it is enough to bring one device to another — and they will automatically establish a connection, all that remains is to confirm it. Other ways of interaction may also be possible, for example, launching a “sports” application on a smartphone when bringing a fitness tracker to it. And theoretically, more specific options for using NFC are also allowed — for example, as a travel pass, ID, etc. Actually, in many models of wearable gadgets, the set of these methods is limited only by installed applications.

— Contactless payment. The possibility of using a wearable gadget for contactless payment. This feature is found only in models with NFC (see above); it actually turns the device into an analogue of a credit card with a chip and allows you to pay without taking the card out of your wallet — just bring your hand with the gadget to the terminal reader. This provides not only additional convenience, but also security. So, bringing the watch to the terminal is definitely easier than reaching into your pocket or purse for a credit card — especially if your hands are busy shopping. And instead of a traditional card, from which an attacker can copy basic details such as a number, CVV code and expiration date (for example, by “peeping” them with the built-in camera), a gadget is used that transmits this data in encrypted form and does not display it explicitly anywhere.
To use contactless payment, usually, you need to synchronize your gadget with your smartphone and set up such payment in the Google Pay or Apple Pay system. But to make payments, a smartphone is no longer required — many wearable devices are able to perform this feature completely autonomously (although this possibility still needs to be specified separately).

— Accelerometer. A sensor that determines the direction of gravity, as well as the accelerations acting on the device. This allows you to track two parameters at once: the current position in space and various physical influences (like tapping or shaking). Most often, the accelerometer is responsible for two main features: automatic rotation of the image on the screen, as well as the operation of the pedometer (in fact, the presence of such a sensor is almost guaranteed to mean the presence of a pedometer, see "Possible measurements"). However, there are other ways to use this sensor — for example, rejecting an incoming call when shaking the watch, turning on the screen when tapping on it, etc.

— Gyroscope. A device that allows you to track the turns of the gadget in one direction or another. Typically used in conjunction with an accelerometer. The gyroscope improves the accuracy of positioning in space (which has a positive effect on the quality of the pedometer and other similar functions), and also provides additional options for managing gestures. However, the specific applications of this sensor are highly dependent on the model.

— Camera. The watch/bracelet has its own built-in camera; its location and purpose differs from model to model. In some devices, the lens is located on the front panel, above the screen, and the matter is limited only to video communication and taking selfies, while others allow you to shoot “classic” photos or videos. At the same time, it is worth noting that anyway, the specs of such cameras are usually very limited — for example, the resolution rarely exceeds 2 megapixels, and autofocus is provided only in the most advanced models.

— Flashlight. Built-in flashlight — usually in the form of a small LED mounted directly in the case. Usually, it has a relatively modest brightness, but it can still be useful for simple tasks like lighting your path at night, lighting in a garage or basement, etc.

The capacity of the battery that is installed in the gadget.

Theoretically, the higher the capacity, the longer the battery can work on a single charge. However, in fact, the battery life of the gadget also depends on its power consumption, and it is determined by the specs of the display and the hardware. Therefore, only models of the same type with very similar specs can be compared in terms of battery capacity; and for an accurate assessment of battery life, it is better to focus on the directly claimed operating time in one mode or another (see below).

It is also worth mentioning that high-capacity batteries inevitably turn out to be quite heavy and bulky. So the capacity of batteries installed in wearable gadgets is also greatly limited by size and weight.

— Skin. Leather straps are typical for a business style, they look rich and respectable, however, they are quite expensive. On the practical side, this material is strong, reliable and resistant to moisture; at the same time, it is quite demanding to care for, and if the appropriate rules are not followed, cracks may appear on the strap.

— Rubber/silicone. Quite a popular material used not only for fitness trackers, but also for traditional watches. Rubber straps do not look as rich as leather ones, but they are also quite decent, while they are strong enough, durable, resistant to moisture and pleasantly felt on the hand. Silicone is similar in properties, which in appearance is practically indistinguishable from rubber. But the silicone is softer, does not pinch the hand and is more pleasant to the touch.

— Metal. Metal straps (bracelets) are mainly made of stainless steel, but there are other options. Anyway, bracelets are highly durable and can be both light and massive, depending on the composition of the metal. It is also worth mentioning the high thermal conductivity of this material. Such a bracelet pleasantly cools the hand in the warm season, but causes the opposite effect in the cold.

— Milanese bracelet. Metal bracelets made of links of very fine weaving (about 1 mm in size, or even...less). The material of such a bracelet may be different; most often it is steel, but more expensive metals are also found. Anyway, such a bracelet has an original appearance, and also provides good air access, allowing the skin to breathe. Among the shortcomings of Milanese bracelet, it can be noted that the links can “bite” the hair on the arm, creating discomfort.

— Textile. Usually, strong dense fabric (like nylon-based CORDURA) is used for straps, resistant to moisture, ultraviolet and other adverse factors. For some users, this material is more pleasant than other options; however, for a number of technical reasons, fabric straps were not widely used.

Many models of wearable gadgets are available with several strap options to choose from.

The type of clasp used on a gadget's strap or bracelet.

The most common types of clasps today are the classic buckle, folding clip, folding lock, magnet, snap fastener, and Hook-and-loop. If several options are indicated in the specs at once, it means that the gadget is supplied or can be supplied with different strap options using different types of fasteners. Here is a detailed description of each type:

– Classic (with buckle). Clasp resembling a belt buckle; originally used in traditional wristwatches, but nowadays it has become widespread in smart gadgets. On one half of such a fastener there is a U-shaped or similar frame with a special pin, on the second — a row of holes. When fastening, the second half is threaded through the frame, and the pin is fixed in one of the holes. At the same time, by choosing a particular hole, you can adjust the size of the strap. In addition, the advantages of the classics are reliability, neat appearance and compatibility with many strap materials (with the exception of metal bracelets).

— Clip (unfolding). An option for metal bracelets. The most widespread type of clip, consisting of two curved plates connected by an axis. When unfastened, they open like a book, increasing the overall length of the bracelet and allowing...you to easily remove the watch from your hand, and when fastened, they fold close to each other and are fixed, securing the bracelet on your wrist. Another, less popular variety is the “butterfly”, which has two flaps that, when opened, rise like wings. In general, the clips are very easy to use, but difficult to set up. They fasten and unfasten with literally one click, but it’s impossible to reconfigure the size of a bracelet with a clip “on the go” — you have to disconnect and reconnect special latches, which requires an additional tool and some skill.

— Magnetic. A fastener in which a strong permanent magnet plays the role of a latch. Such devices are simple and convenient both in use and in adjustment: for fastening and unfastening, it is enough to “stick” or “unstick” a magnet, and size adjustment is carried out right at the time of fastening — by tightening the strap to the desired length. The main disadvantage of such a clasp is that it can only be used with metal bracelets made of magnetic alloys — for example, steel.

— With lock. A clasp that resembles the buckle described above, but has a slightly different principle of operation. On one side of the strap with such a clasp there is a latch pin, on the other side there is a loop of a D-shaped or other shape, as well as a number of holes. When fastening, the side with the pin is threaded into the loop and then fixed in one of the holes; By choosing one or another hole, you can adjust the length of the strap. This design is especially suitable for rubber straps, it is simpler and at the same time more reliable than the buckle, which can also be used with such straps.

— Hook-and-loop. Classic hook-and-loop closure, used exclusively with fabric straps. Like magnetic clasps (see above), such clasps allow you to very accurately adjust the length of the strap right in the process of fastening. Among the disadvantages of Hook-and-loop, in addition to restrictions on the materials of the strap, it is worth noting the tendency to reduce reliability as it wears out. Therefore, nowadays, this type of fastener is quite rare, and is almost never used as the only one available — usually Hook-and-loop is supplemented with another option, for example, a latch.

— Folding lock. Clasp in the form of a detachable lock, the halves of which are on different halves of the bracelet. It is used with finely woven metal bracelets, the so-called "Milanese" ones; at the same time, one half is fixed motionless, and the second can move along its part of the bracelet — in this way the length is adjusted. A tool may be required for adjustment, but the procedure itself is simple — much easier than with clips. And the low prevalence of folding locks is mainly due to the fact that Milanese bracelets are rarely found in smart wearable gadgets.

In most cases, the weight of the watch body itself is indicated as the weight of the model, since the strap is removable and can be replaced with another one. However, there are also models when the weight is presented with an included strap. Anyway, if the manufacturer indicates a specific method of measuring weight (with or without a strap), we add this information.