This paper presents the comparison of linear primary permanent magnet vernier (LPPMV) machine and linear vernier hybrid (LVH) machine. The LPPMV machine and the LVH machine both operate based on the magnetic gear principle, hence possessing the advantages of low speed and high thrust force density. In addition, both machines employ similar configurations between which the key difference is that a one-piece primary iron core is employed in the LPPMV machine instead of the modular cores in the LVH machine. Using the finite element method (FEM), the characteristics and performances of two machines are analyzed and compared. The results show that the LPPMV machine exhibits higher thrust force and lower cogging force. Finally, the FEM results are validated by experiments based on a prototype of the LPPMV machine.