Best Samsung Smartwatches: What Is the Right Galaxy Watch for You?
If you are looking for a smartwatch with great integration with Android 14 devices as well as a nice selection of modern features, Samsung can be your brand of choice. From the latest Galaxy Watch 6 Series, moving to the Galaxy Watch 5 and Watch 4 Series, the South Korean giant offers a wide range of sizes and prices. In this guide for Samsung smartwatches, we compare different Galaxy Watches and tell you what to look for.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 (Classic), Watch 5 (Pro) and Watch 4 (Classic) compared
Table of Contents:
- Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Series
- Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Series
- Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Series
- Samsung Galaxy Watch Bespoke Edition
- Samsung Watch Ecosystem
What makes the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic stand out? How do the Galaxy Watch 5 and Watch 5 Pro differ from each other, and how do they compare to the two models of the Watch 4 series? These are some of the intriguing topics we're going to explore. However, before we delve into a detailed analysis of each smartwatch, it's important to note that Samsung's models are evaluated based on the same criteria we apply to any other smartwatch.
They should track your vital signs, display notifications from your phone on your wrist, and even be able to make calls if necessary. You can read more about what to look for when buying a smartwatch in our smartwatch buying guide.
- Interested in fitness tracking devices? Check out our Smart Rings buying guide
One more note: Samsung smartwatches cannot be used with an iPhone. If you are looking for a smartwatch for your Apple phone, we recommend checking out our overview of Apple Watches.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6: The Classic will be back!
| Standard model | Classic model | |
|---|---|---|
| Device | Galaxy Watch 6 | Galaxy Watch 6 Classic |
| Image |  |
 |
| Display | Super AMOLED | Sapphire glass | Always-On display 1.3-inch | 432 x 432 pixels | 33.3 mm or 1.5-inch | 480 x 480 pixels | 37.3 mm |
Super AMOLED | Sapphire glass | Always-on display 1.3-inch | 432 x 432 pixels | 33.3 mm or 1.5-inch | 480 x 480 pixels | 37.3 mm |
| Memory and SoC | Exynos W930 dual-core 1.4 GHz 2 GB RAM | 16 GB storage |
|
| Versions | 40 mm | 44 mm | 43 mm | 47 mm |
| Battery | 40 mm: 300 mAh 44 mm: 425 mAh |
43 mm: 300 mAh 47 mm: 425 mAh |
| OS | One UI Watch 5 based on Wear OS Powered by Samsung 4.0 | |
| Dimensions and weight | 38.8 x 40.4 x 9.0 mm | 28.7 g (40 mm) 42.8 x 44.4 x 9.0 mm | 33.3 g (44 mm) |
42.5 x 42.5 x 10.9 mm | 52.0 g (43 mm) 46.5 x 46.5 x 10.9 mm | 59.0 g (47 mm) |
| Connectivity | LTE (depending on variant), Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi 2.4+5GHz, NFC, GPS / Glonass / Beidou / Galileo | |
| Compatibility | Android 10 or higher and with more than 1.5 GB RAM | |
| Certification | 5 ATM + IP 68 / MIL-STD-810H | |
| Colors | 44 mm: graphite, silver 40 mm: Graphite, Gold |
47 mm: black, silver 43 mm: black, silver |
| Price | from $299 | from $399 |
| Offer* | ||
Galaxy Watch 6 vs Watch 6 Classic: Which is the right one for you?
The Galaxy Watch 6 and the Watch 6 Classic each come in two different sizes: one with a 1.3-inch display and the other with a 1.5-inch display. While the displays on the Watch 6 and the Classic version are similar in size, this does not apply to the watches themselves. That's because the Classic model has a rotating bezel located around the outside screen, which makes the watch bulkier.
This is evident in the dimensions and weight: the "smaller" Classic model comes with a 43 mm case, while the standard Watch 6 measures a mere 40 mm. The larger models are 47 and 44 mm apart. In terms of weight, the two Classic models are also almost twice as heavy as the two "smaller" ones at 52 and 59 g each, 33.3 and 28.7 g respectively.
For a more in-depth look, check out the Galaxy Watch 6 review
That is the primary difference between the two models. Although the Classic models are significantly heavier and are also a bit more expensive, they both carry the same hardware under the hood, including the new Exynos W930 with 2 GB of RAM and 16 GB of storage to GPS and optional LTE connectivity. Even the batteries are identical in capacity, with 300 mAh and 425 mAh in the small and large models, respectively.
Galaxy Watch 6 and Watch 6 Classic: What is new compared to their predecessors?
Let's begin with the most obvious difference: the display. Sure, 0.1-inch does not sound like much on paper, but the displays of the new Galaxy Watch 6 and Watch 6 Classic are noticeably larger than those in the older models.
Apart from the larger displays, the new Watch 6 models also received an upgrade in terms of processors: The Exynos W930 with 2 GB instead of 1.5 GB RAM is now utilized. Samsung now uses the newer Wear OS 4 as the operating system of choice, which offers a number of new features, such as numerous new complications and more customization options.
The new Watch 6 generation offers more powerful batteries. With 425 mAh and 300 mAh respectively, the power reserves are larger than in the Watch 5 with 410 mAh and 284 mAh, respectively. Only the Galaxy Watch 5 Pro can do much more with 590 mAh.
Galaxy Watch 5: The Samsung smartwatch of 2022
| Pro model | Base model | |
|---|---|---|
| Device | Galaxy Watch 5 Pro | Galaxy Watch 5 |
| Image |  |
 |
| Display | Super AMOLED 1.36-inch 450x450 px |
Super AMOLED 1.19-inch: 396x396 px 1.36-inch: 450x450 px |
| Working memory and SoC | Exynos W920 1.5 GB RAM 16 GB memory |
Exynos W920 1.5 GB RAM 16 GB memory |
| Size | 45 mm | 40 mm / 44 mm |
| Battery | 590 mAh | 284 mAh (40 mm) 410 mAh (44 mm) |
| OS | One UI Watch 4.5 based on Wear OS 3.5 | One UI Watch 4.5 based on Wear OS 3.5 |
| Dimensions | 45.5 x 45.5 x 10.5 mm | 40.4 x 39.3 x 9.8 mm (40 mm) 44.4 x 43.3 x 9.8 mm (44 mm) |
| Connectivity | NFC, GPS, 4G, Bluetooth 5.2, Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n | NFC, GPS, Bluetooth 5.2, Wi-Fi (2.4Gz & 5Ghz), 4G (optional). |
| Certification | IP68, MIL-STD-810H | IP68, 5ATM, MIL-STD-810H |
| Price | from $449.99 | from $279.99 |
| Offer* |
Galaxy Watch 5 vs. Watch 5 Pro: Which model is the right one for you?
The Galaxy Watch 5 has a less imposing and sportier design than the Pro variant. The basic Watch 5 model is available in two sizes: 44 and 40 mm with an aluminum case, while the Watch 5 Pro is only available in 45 mm with a titanium case.
For both models, you can choose between different colors and straps. The 40mm Galaxy Watch 5 has a 1.19-inch display, while the 44mm Galaxy Watch 5 and Watch 5 Pro have a 1.36-inch display. Both smartwatches feature a Super AMOLED display protected by sapphire glass that is nearly twice as thick as the Galaxy Watch 4, and the Watch 5 Pro is also the only one with the D-Buckle Sports Band closure.
For a deeper look, check out the Galaxy Watch 5 Pro review
Samsung has replaced the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic's rotating bezel with a digital bezel and two buttons on the Watch 5 and 5 Pro. Both models run Wear OS with the One UI Watch interface, powered by the Exynos W920 SoC on a 5-nanometer process, featuring 1.5 GB of RAM and 16 GB of storage. They also share IP68 and 5 ATM water and dust resistance ratings.
However, the Watch 5 and 5 Pro differ significantly in features. Both models support pulse, SPO2, body temperature, blood pressure, body composition, and ECG measurements. But, the Watch 5 Pro adds exclusive features like turn-by-turn navigation, GPX route import/export, and a track-back function to navigate back to your workout's start.
Battery life also varies: the Watch 5 offers up to 40 hours with its 284 or 410 mAh battery, while the Watch 5 Pro extends to 80 hours with a 592 mAh battery.
Galaxy Watch 5 and Watch 5 Pro: What is new compared to the previous models?
The Galaxy Watch 5 and 5 Pro introduce significant, though not revolutionary, updates over their predecessors. The Galaxy Watch 5 features visual updates and a new Sapphire glass display that's 1.6 times more scratch-resistant. It comes in new colors: Boa Purple, Graphite, and Pink Gold for the 40mm model; Sapphire, Silver, and Graphite for the 44mm model.
Battery capacity has increased, offering about 10% more life than the Galaxy Watch 4, with the 40mm model moving from 247 to 284 mAh and the 44mm from 361 to 410 mAh. Additionally, the Watch 5 includes a new, though initially non-functional, body temperature sensor and updates to Bluetooth 5.2.
The Galaxy Watch 5 Pro, replacing the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic, shows more noticeable visual changes with a single 45mm version, eliminating the rotating bezel for a digital one and available in Black Titanium and Grey Titanium.
Despite a slightly smaller screen, it maintains a 460x460 resolution, now protected by Sapphire glass and a titanium case, enhancing durability. The battery capacity jumps to 590 mAh from 361 mAh, potentially doubling the battery life to 80 hours. Alongside the exclusive features discussed earlier, the Watch 5 Pro also includes the new temperature sensor.
Galaxy Watch 4: The older models still have some skin in the game
| Classic model | Basic model | |
|---|---|---|
| Device | Galaxy Watch 4 Classic | Galaxy Watch 4 |
| Photo |  |
 |
| Screen | Super AMOLED 1.2-inch: 396 x 396 px 1.4-inch: 450 x 450 px |
Super AMOLED 1.2-inch: 396 x 396 px 1.4-inch: 450 x 450 px |
| Working memory and SoC | Exynos W920 1.5 GB RAM 16 GB memory |
Exynos W920 1.5 GB RAM 16 GB memory |
| Versions | 42 mm / 46 mm | 40 mm / 44 mm |
| Battery | 42 mm: 247mAh 46 mm: 361mAh |
40 mm: 247 mAh 44 mm: 361 mAh |
| OS | One UI Watch 3 based on Wear OS 3 | One UI Watch 3 based on Wear OS 3 |
| Dimensions | 41.5 x 41.5 x 11.2 mm (42 mm) 45.5 x 45.5 x 11 mm (46 mm) |
40.4 x 39.3 x 9.8 mm (40 mm) 44.4 x 43.3 x 9.8 mm (44 mm) |
| Connectivity | NFC, GPS, 4G, Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n | NFC, GPS, Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, 4G (optional) |
| Certification | IP68, MIL-STD-810G | IP68, 5ATM |
| Price | from $299 | from $199 |
| Offer |
Galaxy Watch 4 vs. Watch 4 Classic: The differences
For starters, the Watch 4 Classic has a mechanical rotating bezel to navigate the interface and two buttons on the side. It is available in 42 and 46 mm sizes and is made of stainless steel instead of aluminum. The standard Watch 4 has a more traditional screen but also incorporates both buttons. It is available in 40 and 44 mm sizes.
ven with its increased dimensions, the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic doesn't boast a bigger battery. Hence, the 42 mm variant comes with a 247 mAh battery, while the 46 mm version houses a 361 mAh battery, mirroring the capacities seen in the basic Watch 4 models. It follows that both the Galaxy Watch 4 (44 mm) and the Watch 4 Classic are expected to deliver double the battery life compared to their smaller 40 and 42 mm counterparts.
Take a closer look at the Galaxy Watch 4 review
The Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic have very similar screens. The standard Watch 4 comes with either a 1.2-inch or 1.4-inch Super AMOLED display, while the Watch 4 Classic has 1.19-inch or 1.4-inch screens. Both models feature resolutions of either 396 x 396 or 450 x 450 pixels, and their screens are protected by Corning Gorilla Glass DX.
Performance-wise, the Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic are the same. They run on the Exynos W920 SoC with a 5nm process, paired with 1.5 GB of RAM and 16 GB of storage.
Both models offer identical features, including heart rate, blood pressure, SpO2, and body fat composition sensors, sleep and ECG tracking, and GPS and NFC connectivity. The Watch 4 starts at $199 for the 40mm non-4G model, and the Watch 4 Classic at $229.
Prices for both watches have dropped significantly in 2023, with the Classic model now available for under $200 and the basic model for $130.
Choosing between the 2021 models likely comes down to design preference and wrist size. If you prefer a classic watch look or have a larger wrist, the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic is for you. Otherwise, the standard Galaxy Watch 4 will suffice.
Galaxy Watch Bespoke Edition: This is how you can design your own Galaxy Watch.
It is possible to customize your Galaxy Watch 6, 5, or 4 Series with the Bespoke Edition. You can change elements such as the case size and color. For instance, for the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic you can choose a 43 mm version in rose gold, silver, or graphite. Additionally, you have the option to select a dial with a floral pattern or opt for a more plain watch face.
Samsung also gives you the option to choose between different straps and clasps. Your Galaxy Watch 6 can come with a magnetic or sports clasp, a hybrid leather strap, or a Fabric bracelet.
Samsung's Watch Ecosystem
The connection between the Galaxy Watch and smartphones is done through the Galaxy Wear application. The interaction between Samsung devices is perfect. The Galaxy Wear app offers numerous setting options and even includes a digital user manual. In addition, compatible applications installed on your smartphone will automatically be downloaded to your Galaxy Watch.
The connection between the smartphone and the smartwatch is not only reliable but also intuitive. In the case of a problem on the smartwatch, for instance, it refers to the smartphone by directly launching the relevant segment in the Galaxy Wear application. The Galaxy Watch also provides access to a dedicated page in the Google Play Store that shows off compatible applications.
Which smartwatch generation is your favorite: the Galaxy Watch 6, 5, or 4? Which model is your heart set on: the Standard, Pro, or Classic? Please let us know in the comments!
The article was updated in February 2024. The comments before the update were kept and may look out of context now.
