If you’re looking for a reliable companion for your Android smartphone, a Samsung Galaxy Watch is well worth considering. We’ve reviewed several models to help you decide which smartwatch best suits your needs.
1st Place
Galaxy Watch6
Review Score: 8.3/10 (Good)
Review Winner
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
PROS
- Large display
- Accurate heart rate measurement
- Reliable sleep tracking
- Many Google services on board
- Multiple sports modes
CONS
- Short battery life
- Data protection could be improved
- Blood pressure & co. only with a Samsung phone
- Not compatible with iPhones
2nd Place
Galaxy Watch7
Review Score: 8.3/10 (Good)
Samsung Galaxy Watch 7
PROS
- Large display
- Accurate heart rate measurement
- Comprehensive and reliable sleep tracking
- Many Google services on board
- Multiple sports modes
CONS
- Short battery life
- Data protection could be improved
- Blood pressure & co. only with a Samsung phone
- Not compatible with iPhones
3rd Place
Galaxy Watch5
Review Score: 8.2/10 (Good)
Samsung Galaxy Watch 5
PROS
- GPS route tracking
- Precisely measures training heart rate
- Reliable sleep tracking
- Many Google services on board
- More installed sports modes
CONS
- Blood pressure & co. only with a Samsung phone
- Case is prone to scratches
- Short battery life
- Not compatible with iPhones
4th Place
Galaxy Watch6 Classic
Review Score: 8.2/10 (Good)
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
PROS
- Accurate heart rate measurement
- Large display
- Multiple sports modes
- Many Google services on board
CONS
- Short battery life
- Not compatible with iPhones
- Data protection could be improved
- Blood pressure & co. only with a Samsung phone
5th Place
Galaxy Watch Ultra
Review Score: 8.2/10 (Good)
Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra
PROS
- Large display
- Accurate heart rate measurement
- Reliable and extensive sleep tracking
- Many Google services on board
- Multi-sport mode
CONS
- Not compatible with iPhones
- Data protection could be improved
- Blood pressure & co. only measurable with a Samsung phone
- Bulky design
- Not especially scratch-resistant
6th Place
Galaxy Watch4 Classic
Review Score: 8.0/10 (Good)
Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic
PROS
- Some Google services on board
- Generally easy to operate
- Bright display
- Blood pressure and ECG functions
- Body composition analysis
- Snore detection
- Automatic workout detection
- Accurate heart rate measurement
CONS
- Not compatible with iPhones
- Slightly rigid strap
- Battery life is only about one day
- Can sometimes feel sluggish
7th Place
Galaxy Watch5 Pro
Review Score: 8.0/10 (Good)
Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro
PROS
- GPX route navigation via GPS
- Reliable sleep tracking
- Many Google services on board
- Apps installable from the Play Store
- More integrated sports modes
CONS
- Can slip on the wrist; inaccurate heart rate if not snug
- Not compatible with iPhones
8th Place
Galaxy Watch4
Review Score: 7.9/10 (Good)
Samsung Galaxy Watch 4
PROS
- Some Google services on board
- Generally easy to operate
- Bright display
- Blood pressure and ECG functions
- Body composition analysis
- Snore detection
- Automatic workout detection
- Accurate heart rate measurement
CONS
- Not compatible with iPhones
- Slightly rigid strap
- Battery lasts only about one day
- Occasionally still a bit sluggish
Samsung began working with Google in 2021 for its smartwatch range, replacing Tizen with Wear OS. Despite this change in software, the design and operation still feel familiar to those who’ve owned previous models. The first Wear OS release was the Galaxy Watch 4 (2021), succeeded by the Galaxy Watch 5 (2022), Galaxy Watch 6 (2023), and in 2024, the Galaxy Watch 7 and Galaxy Watch Ultra. Older Galaxy Watch models can often be found at lower prices, so choosing can be tricky. Here’s what sets them apart and which one might be right for you.
Best Samsung Smartwatch: Galaxy Watch 6
Galaxy Watch6
Review Score: 8.3/10 (Good)
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
- Large display
- Accurate heart rate measurement
- Short battery life
- Data protection could be improved
The Galaxy Watch 6 sticks to a familiar design, making only small refinements. You’ll only really notice the larger display if you compare it directly with older models; otherwise, it feels much the same. The touted performance boost is barely noticeable in everyday use. On the upside, well-known fitness and health features are still there and in some cases improved. Thanks to its smart functions, this watch remains the top recommendation for Samsung users; other Android owners should also give it a look. Unfortunately, the new battery doesn’t really extend the watch’s life beyond a day. At the time of review, prices started at around €190. The Galaxy Watch 7 scores just as highly but costs around €209, putting it in second place.
Price Tip: The Classy Galaxy Watch 4 Classic
Galaxy Watch4 Classic
Review Score: 8.0/10 (Good)
Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic
- Some Google services on board
- Generally easy to use
- Not compatible with iPhones
- Slightly rigid strap
With its signature rotating bezel, the 2021 Galaxy Watch 4 Classic is the more refined edition that catches the eye. If you liked Samsung’s older interface, you’ll adapt quickly. It also includes Google services like Wallet, Maps, and Messages, while keeping Samsung features like Bixby and Samsung Pay. At the time of review, the price started at about €160.
- Available in 42 mm or 46 mm
- Physical rotating bezel
Design Overview of Samsung Smartwatches
Samsung’s lineup features four main design approaches: watches with a rotating bezel, those without a bezel in a flat design, some with a raised rim, and finally a round display in a square casing. On models with a physical bezel, you twist the ring around the display to navigate. Others have a “digital bezel,” where circular finger swipes around the screen emulate this rotating action. Key models released since 2020 include:
- Galaxy Watch 3 (2020) with 41 or 45 mm: physical bezel
- Galaxy Watch 4 Classic (2021) with 42 or 46 mm: physical bezel
- Galaxy Watch 4 (2021) with 40 or 44 mm: flat, digital bezel
- Galaxy Watch 5 (2022) with 40 or 44 mm: flat, digital bezel
- Galaxy Watch 5 Pro (2022) with 45 mm: raised rim, digital bezel
- Galaxy Watch 6 (2023) with 40 or 44 mm: flat, digital bezel
- Galaxy Watch 6 Classic (2023) with 43 or 47 mm: physical bezel
- Galaxy Watch 7 (2024) with 40 or 44 mm: flat, digital bezel
- Galaxy Watch Ultra (2024) with 47 mm: square casing, digital bezel
Galaxy Watch 7: The AI-Focused Model
Galaxy Watch7
Review Score: 8.3/10 (Good)
Samsung Galaxy Watch 7
- Large display
- Accurate heart rate measurement
- Short battery life
- Data protection could be improved
On the surface, the Galaxy Watch 7 doesn’t differ much from its predecessor: the screen is still bright, and the tried-and-tested design remains. While the new BioActive Sensor provides additional metrics, they’re not detailed enough for deep analysis. Nevertheless, this model reliably tracks heart rate and sleep, and it still offers strong sports features. Some smart innovations include a double-tap action and a first venture into AI. Battery life, however, is still roughly one day.
Galaxy Watch Ultra: A Round Display in a Square Shell
Galaxy Watch Ultra
Review Score: 8.2/10 (Good)
Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra
- Large display
- Accurate heart rate measurement
- Not compatible with iPhones
- Data protection could be improved
The Galaxy Watch Ultra aims to rival Apple’s more rugged offerings but ends up feeling slightly off in design. A circular display in a square case leaves some unused space, and the watch is noticeably bulky—though it still fits smaller wrists. Disappointingly, its scratch resistance proved underwhelming, and though its water resistance is improved, there’s no dedicated dive mode. Beyond its unique shape, multi-sport mode, and built-in siren, it mirrors the Galaxy Watch 7’s core features. Prices at the time of review were around €429.
Galaxy Watch 6 Classic: Slim and Stylish
Galaxy Watch6 Classic
Review Score: 8.2/10 (Good)
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
- Accurate heart rate measurement
- Large display
- Short battery life
- Not compatible with iPhones
Like the base Watch 6, the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic makes only minor changes. The rotating bezel is slimmer than on previous versions, which is a nice touch. The boosted performance is barely noticeable, and the larger battery doesn’t significantly extend runtime. Expect to charge daily. On the upside, all major fitness and health features are intact and improved in some areas. Overall, this series remains a great pick for Samsung fans, though other Android users should consider it too. At the time of review, prices started around €200.
Galaxy Watch 5: The Top Model of 2022
Galaxy Watch5
Review Score: 8.2/10 (Good)
Samsung Galaxy Watch 5
- GPS route tracking
- Precisely measures training heart rate
- Blood pressure & co. only with a Samsung phone
- Case is prone to scratches
Compared to 2021’s model, the Galaxy Watch 5 (2022) offers a small yet notable upgrade—a slightly bigger battery. The 40 mm version now lasts just over a day. After a year with Google’s system on board, most teething troubles have been ironed out, and the Play Store apps generally run smoothly. You get a blend of Samsung’s user interface and Google’s services. Fitness features are strong, although route navigation enhancements are reserved for the Pro version. Prices at the time of review started around €199.
- 40 mm or 44 mm sizes
- Digital bezel (within the touchscreen)
Galaxy Watch 5 Pro (2022): Added Route Guidance
Galaxy Watch5 Pro
Review Score: 8.0/10 (Good)
Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro
- GPX route navigation via GPS
- Reliable sleep tracking
- Slips if not fitted tightly, affecting heart rate accuracy
- Not compatible with iPhones
The Galaxy Watch 5 Pro stands out for pairing seamlessly with Android phones. It combines Google and Samsung services that mostly run without hiccups. Its larger battery delivers up to two days of use, which is impressive for a smartwatch. GPS tracking on extended outings works well, aided by GPX route guidance. However, its weight can cause it to shift on smaller wrists, hampering heart rate accuracy unless it’s snug. Prices began at around €243 at review time.
- 45 mm size
- Digital bezel
Galaxy Watch 4 (2021): Good But Short on Battery
Galaxy Watch4
Review Score: 7.9/10 (Good)
Samsung Galaxy Watch 4
- Some Google services on board
- Generally easy to operate
- Not compatible with iPhones
- Slightly rigid strap
The Galaxy Watch 4’s main version has a sleek case and no physical bezel. It runs Wear OS, with apps available via the Play Store—think Google Pay, Maps, and Messages. Samsung’s services (Bixby, Samsung Pay, Samsung Health) are also included. In early reviews, the software occasionally stuttered, but updates have improved features and battery management. The 40 mm model still needs daily charging. Prices start at around €117.
- 40 mm or 44 mm sizes
- Digital bezel
Galaxy Watch 3 (2020): Tizen’s Final Outing
Galaxy Watch3
Review Score: 7.9/10 (Good)
Samsung Galaxy Watch 3
- Automatically detects workouts
- Features GPS and barometer
- Tight battery life
- Heart rate sensor can be inaccurate
With its intuitive rotating bezel, the Galaxy Watch 3 received software updates for ECG, blood pressure, and Samsung Pay. However, it’s the last Tizen-based model, as later releases switched to Wear OS. New features at launch included fall detection, Outlook integration, and blood oxygen (SpO2) measurements, while retaining tried-and-tested capabilities like auto workout detection, run coaching, plus messaging and music options. Accuracy issues with heart rate readings were notable. For iPhone owners, an Apple Watch might be a better fit at similar prices. You can still find the Watch 3 around €200.
- 41 mm or 45 mm sizes
- Physical rotating bezel
Alternative: Samsung Galaxy Ring
Galaxy Ring
Review Score: 8.0/10 (Good)
Samsung Galaxy Ring
- Very light and slim
- Secure fit on the finger
- Limited functionality
- Not compatible with iPhones
This innovative smart ring is a recent addition to Samsung’s lineup and is the first of its kind from a major manufacturer. It feels comfortable, looks sophisticated, and tracks essential vitals (heart rate, sleep) with ease and accuracy. It’s ideal for those who want these metrics without wearing a watch. Prices at the time of review were around €449.
Compatibility with Samsung Smartwatches
Galaxy Watches pair best with Samsung smartphones. From the Galaxy Watch Active 2 (2019) onward, you’ll need the Samsung Health Monitor app for ECG and blood pressure—only available on Samsung phones. Other features work with any Android device.
- Galaxy Watch 7 and Galaxy Watch Ultra: Android 11.0 minimum
- Galaxy Watch 6: Android 10.0 minimum
- Galaxy Watch 5: Android 8.0 minimum
- Galaxy Watch 4: Android 6.0 minimum
- Galaxy Watch 3 & Active models: Android 5.0 minimum
- Original Galaxy Watch: Android 4.4 minimum
Older, Tizen-based Galaxy Watches (up to 2020) can also be used with iPhones but with limited functionality—no direct message replies, for example. Apple Watch remains the better choice for iOS users.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Samsung Smartwatches Are Available?
Early models carried the “Gear” name. Since 2018, they’re branded as “Galaxy”. Starting with the Galaxy Watch 4 series (2021), Samsung moved from Tizen OS to Wear OS.
- Galaxy Watch 7 and Galaxy Watch Ultra: launched July 2024
- Galaxy Watch 6 and Galaxy Watch 6 Classic: launched July 2023
- Galaxy Watch 5 and Galaxy Watch 5 Pro: launched August 2022
- Galaxy Watch 4 and Galaxy Watch 4 Classic: launched August 2021
- Galaxy Watch 3: launched August 2020
- Galaxy Watch Active 2: launched August 2019
- Galaxy Watch Active: launched February 2019
- Galaxy Watch (original): launched August 2018
What Is the Newest Samsung Smartwatch?
The Galaxy Watch 7 and Galaxy Watch Ultra arrived in July 2024. Like the Galaxy Watch 4, 5, and 6, they use Wear OS instead of Tizen, gradually incorporating more Google services and allowing app downloads via the Play Store. Since 2021, these models also estimate body composition (fat, muscle, water) and include a compass. The Ultra has a square casing, built-in siren, and multi-sport modes.
Which Samsung Smartwatch Is Best?
All recent Samsung watches reviewed scored well overall. The top performers are currently the Galaxy Watch 6 and Galaxy Watch 7, praised for precise heart rate tracking and comfort. Not far behind is the Galaxy Watch 5.
How Long Will Tizen Models Receive Updates?
When announcing its shift to Wear OS, Samsung promised three years of support for existing Tizen watches following their release. That covers firmware and security updates.
How Smart Are Samsung Watches?
They all shine in everyday use, offering:
- Messaging: Mirror notifications, plus replies if paired with Android. Models with speakers and mics also handle calls.
- Cellular Connectivity (LTE): Some editions use eSIM for phone-free calls and data.
- Samsung Pay: Supported from Galaxy Watch Active 2 onward.
- Bixby: Pre-installed voice assistant (Google Assistant is available on Galaxy Watch 4 and later).
- Apps: Tizen watches use Samsung’s Galaxy Store, while Wear OS models (Watch 4 and newer) have Google Play Store and services like Google Maps.
What About Fitness Features?
Most Galaxy Watches share similar capabilities. They automatically detect common workouts (like walks or runs), log routes with GPS, and track altitude with a barometer. Sleep, step count, and heart rate monitoring are standard.
What Health Sensors Do They Include?
Heart rate sensing is included in all models—though the Galaxy Watch 3 and 5 Pro had slight accuracy issues. Starting with Active 2, you’ll find ECG and blood pressure (paired with a Samsung phone and calibrated via a cuff). The Galaxy Watch 3 introduced blood oxygen estimates (SpO2). The Galaxy Watch 4 added bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) for body composition. The Galaxy Watch 7 introduced AGEs (advanced glycation end products) measurement.
