Samsung Galaxy Watch Series Explained: Which Is The Best Smartwatch For You?

Whether you are looking for a watch to help you stay connected, track your fitness, or monitor your health, the Samsung Galaxy smartwatch range has something to offer. With advanced wellness tracking features, a large app library and long lasting battery life, we’ve got a watch that’s just right for you. Keep reading to find out more about different Samsung smartwatches and our recommendations for the best smartwatches.

How many Galaxy watches are there?

Samsung has released several models of the Galaxy Watch which are all innovatively designed to be an extension of your smartphone. They allow you to access apps, make and receive calls and texts, track your fitness goals, and so much more.

2024
●Galaxy Watch7
●Galaxy Watch Ultra

2023
●Galaxy Watch6
●Galaxy Watch6 Classic

2022
●Galaxy Watch5 Pro
●Galaxy Watch5

2021
●Galaxy Watch4
●Galaxy Watch4 Classic

2020
●Galaxy Watch3

2018 / 2019
●Galaxy Watch Active2
●Galaxy Watch Active
●Galaxy Watch

Which is the latest Samsung smartwatch?

The latest Samsung smartwatches are the Galaxy Watch7 and Galaxy Watch Ultra which were announced during the Samsung Unpacked event in July 2024.

Galaxy Watch7 | Galaxy Watch Ultra

The Galaxy Watch7 and Galaxy Watch Ultra are the latest Samsung smartwatches. Released in July 2024 they welcome in a new era of AI-powered health¹. They both benefit from a new 3nm processor, upgraded Dual-Frequency GPS system² and next-gen BioActiveSensor³. Plus, Galaxy AI constantly analyses watch data from the day to provide you with personalised insights and an Energy Score⁴ so you know how to best tackle the day ahead.

The Galaxy Watch7 is available in two sizes; 40mm and 44mm, and is designed for those who seek a seamless blend of style, functionality, and health tracking. Sporting a sleek, customisable design with a variety of watch faces and bands, it fits effortlessly into both casual and formal settings. The Watch7 features a vibrant 2,000 nits Super AMOLED display, providing crisp and clear visuals for all your notifications and apps. If you’re a health enthusiast you will appreciate its advanced AI-powered fitness tracking capabilities, including heart rate monitoring, sleep analysis, and stress management³. The addition of an ECG sensor and blood oxygen monitoring offers comprehensive insights into your well-being⁵. Furthermore, with an improved battery life⁶ and support for faster wireless charging, the Watch7 ensures you stay connected and informed throughout your day.

In comparison, the Galaxy Watch Ultra is tailored for those who demand rugged durability and top-tier performance. Constructed with premium materials including titanium⁷ and sapphire crystal, the Watch Ultra is built to withstand the harshest environments. It boasts enhanced water resistance up to 100 meters⁸ and is MIL-STD-810G certified for military-grade toughness⁹. This model is ideal for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering advanced GPS navigation, altimeter, barometer, and compass functionalities. The Watch Ultra also excels in health and fitness tracking, with features like VO2 max measurement and advanced workout tracking for various sports and activities³. It is built to go above and beyond - it’s an endurance athletes dream.

1. Intended for general wellness and fitness purposes. Not intended for use in detection, diagnoses, treatment of any medical condition or disease.
2. GPS accuracy may vary depending on network environment and other factors
3. Not intended for use in detection, diagnosis or treatment. Intended for general wellness and fitness purposes only. Body composition is only supported in Samsung Galaxy Watch4 series and later released Galaxy Watch models. Body composition should not be used if you have an implanted pacemaker or other implanted medical devices, or if you are pregnant. Any health-related information accessed through the device and application should not be treated as medical advice. Measurement results may not be accurate if you are under 20 years old. The measurements are for your personal reference only. Please consult a medical professional for advice.
4. Energy Score is available on Android phones (Android 11 or above) and requires Samsung Health app (v6.27 or above). Samsung account log-in required. Not intended for use in detection, diagnosis, treatment of any medical condition. The result is for your personal reference only. Please consult a medical professional for advice.
5. It is not intended for users by people under 22 years old. Users should not interpret or take clinical action based on the device output without consultation of a qualified healthcare professional.
6. The typical capacity has been tested under third party laboratory conditions. The typical capacity is the estimated average capacity considering the deviation in battery capacity among the battery samples tested under the IEC 61960 standard. Battery life is based on results from internal lab tests for typical usage pattern scenarios conducted by Samsung. Actual battery life may vary depending on different usage patterns, device model, or the battery manufacturer. When on Power saving mode, some of the features, such as Wi-Fi connection and wake up gesture and others, may become inaccessible, also there may be restrictions on CPU speed, background network, and location.
7. Grade 4 titanium is partially applied to the front and back cover areas of the metal frame, excluding the display and physical buttons. The remaining parts of the frame are a mix of plastic and Grade 2 titanium.
8. Galaxy Watch Ultra is water resistant for 10 minutes in water with a depth of 100 meters according to the ISO22810 standard. The test was conducted in 5% salty water and 4ppm chlorine water. Galaxy Watch Ultra is water resistant with an IP68 rating based on the lab test conditions for submersion in up to 1.5 meters fresh water for up to 30 minutes. It is not suitable for high-pressure water activities and diving. It may be used for shallow-water activities like swimming in a pool or ocean. Water resistance is not a permanent condition and can diminish over time. Refer to the user manual for further information, including care/use instructions.
9. Galaxy Watch Ultra has obtained MIL-STD-810H Certification: High/Low temperature, Altitude, Humidity, Immersion, Salt Fog, Dust, Vibration, Drop, etc. MIL-STD-810H is a standardised form of testing designed by the US Military to accurately assess device limitations. Real world usage may vary by specific environmental conditions used in the testing. Extreme conditions not guaranteed.

1. Intended for general wellness and fitness purposes. Not intended for use in detection, diagnoses, treatment of any medical condition or disease.
2. GPS accuracy may vary depending on network environment and other factors
3. Not intended for use in detection, diagnosis or treatment. Intended for general wellness and fitness purposes only. Body composition is only supported in Samsung Galaxy Watch4 series and later released Galaxy Watch models. Body composition should not be used if you have an implanted pacemaker or other implanted medical devices, or if you are pregnant. Any health-related information accessed through the device and application should not be treated as medical advice. Measurement results may not be accurate if you are under 20 years old. The measurements are for your personal reference only. Please consult a medical professional for advice.
4. Energy Score is available on Android phones (Android 11 or above) and requires Samsung Health app (v6.27 or above). Samsung account log-in required. Not intended for use in detection, diagnosis, treatment of any medical condition. The result is for your personal reference only. Please consult a medical professional for advice.
5. It is not intended for users by people under 22 years old. Users should not interpret or take clinical action based on the device output without consultation of a qualified healthcare professional.
6. The typical capacity has been tested under third party laboratory conditions. The typical capacity is the estimated average capacity considering the deviation in battery capacity among the battery samples tested under the IEC 61960 standard. Battery life is based on results from internal lab tests for typical usage pattern scenarios conducted by Samsung. Actual battery life may vary depending on different usage patterns, device model, or the battery manufacturer. When on Power saving mode, some of the features, such as Wi-Fi connection and wake up gesture and others, may become inaccessible, also there may be restrictions on CPU speed, background network, and location.
7. Grade 4 titanium is partially applied to the front and back cover areas of the metal frame, excluding the display and physical buttons. The remaining parts of the frame are a mix of plastic and Grade 2 titanium.
8. Galaxy Watch Ultra is water resistant for 10 minutes in water with a depth of 100 meters according to the ISO22810 standard. The test was conducted in 5% salty water and 4ppm chlorine water. Galaxy Watch Ultra is water resistant with an IP68 rating based on the lab test conditions for submersion in up to 1.5 meters fresh water for up to 30 minutes. It is not suitable for high-pressure water activities and diving. It may be used for shallow-water activities like swimming in a pool or ocean. Water resistance is not a permanent condition and can diminish over time. Refer to the user manual for further information, including care/use instructions.
9. Galaxy Watch Ultra has obtained MIL-STD-810H Certification: High/Low temperature, Altitude, Humidity, Immersion, Salt Fog, Dust, Vibration, Drop, etc. MIL-STD-810H is a standardised form of testing designed by the US Military to accurately assess device limitations. Real world usage may vary by specific environmental conditions used in the testing. Extreme conditions not guaranteed.

Discover the latest smartwatch from Samsung: the Galaxy Watch 7 and Galaxy Watch Ultra.

What are the different series of Samsung smartwatches?

Samsung has released several series of innovative smartwatches over the years and each comes with unique features. Some models are more focused on fitness tracking, while others are designed for a more traditional watch look and feel. We explore each in more detail below.

Galaxy Watch6 | Galaxy Watch6 Classic

The 2023 Galaxy Watch6 series includes the Galaxy Watch6 Classic and Watch6. The Galaxy Watch6 comes in two sizes; 40mm and 44mm and benefits from an always-on AMOLED display. The Galaxy Watch6 Classic is also available in two size options (43mm and 47mm) but has the largest display at 47mm. Both displays are made from superior Sapphire Crystal Glass allowing them to withstand your daily demands with ease.

The Galaxy Watch6 Classic and Watch6 have BioActive sensors to support you on your wellness journey¹. It’s easy to monitor your wellbeing thanks to features which help you check your heart rate², measure stress levels and even take time out with you to meditate. It can also keep track of your monthly cycle by checking your skin temperature while you sleep, taking the guesswork out of predicting your periods and fertility windows³. When it comes to resting, the holistic sleep analysis tracks your snoring and blood oxygen levels through different sleep stages and provides you with detailed insights into your sleep activity.

Both the Galaxy Watch6 Classic and Watch6 are fully integrated with the Samsung Ecosystem, allowing you to access your favourite phone apps and services directly from your wrist. You can connect your Galaxy Buds3 Pro to the Galaxy Watch6 series and download you’re your favourite workout playlists. You can even use Samsung Pay on your Galaxy Watch so you can tap and pay without needing your wallet or phone⁴. And if you mislay your Galaxy Watch6, there’s no need to panic, Samsung Find will help you track it down fast⁵.

1. Intended for general wellness and fitness purposes. Not intended for use in detection, diagnoses, treatment of any medical condition or disease.
2. Personalisation of Heart Rate Zone enabled when selecting outdoor run activity. It is required to run consistently for more than 10 minutes with speed of 4km/h or faster. ECG and BP feature only to be used by 22 years+. For accurate BP readings, monthly calibration required by GP or BP monitor & arm cuff. Requires a Galaxy smartphone running Android 10 or above.
3. The Cycle Tracking feature of Samsung Health is not intended to be used as contraception.
4. Samsung Pay is available with participating networks, banks and merchants.
5. Samsung Galaxy smartphone or tablet with Android 10 or higher required.

1. Intended for general wellness and fitness purposes. Not intended for use in detection, diagnoses, treatment of any medical condition or disease.
2. Personalisation of Heart Rate Zone enabled when selecting outdoor run activity. It is required to run consistently for more than 10 minutes with speed of 4km/h or faster. ECG and BP feature only to be used by 22 years+. For accurate BP readings, monthly calibration required by GP or BP monitor & arm cuff. Requires a Galaxy smartphone running Android 10 or above.
3. The Cycle Tracking feature of Samsung Health is not intended to be used as contraception.
4. Samsung Pay is available with participating networks, banks and merchants.
5. Samsung Galaxy smartphone or tablet with Android 10 or higher required.

Galaxy Watch5 | Watch5 Pro

The Galaxy Watch5 series includes the Galaxy Watch5 and Galaxy Watch5 Pro and debuted in 2022. The Galaxy Watch5 Pro is a premium version of the Galaxy Watch5, and boasts sophisticated features including 4G connectivity and active GPS that has been optimised for outdoor adventurers.

The Galaxy Watch5 comes in two sizes, 44mm and 40mm, and it features a tough Sapphire Crystal display and titanium frame. You can customise your Galaxy Watch5 with the Watch5 Bespoke Studio, by choosing from a wide variety of bands and watch faces to suit your style and preferences. The Galaxy Watch5 Pro is the largest watch in the Watch5 series, measuring in at 45mm.

One of the standout features of the Galaxy Watch5 Pro is its advanced health and fitness tracking capabilities. It includes a workout feature which lets you import GPX workout routes from your smartphone straight to your watch, while syncing your route list ²across devices. When it's time to return the Track Back feature keeps you on the right path thanks to voice and vibration navigation. Plus, with fall detection technology³, it can send alerts to emergency contacts if you take a tumble while you're out cycling or hiking.

The Galaxy Watch5 Pro has the biggest battery capacity⁴ in the Galaxy Watch series yet at 590mAh. It also supports fast charging, allowing you to charge up quickly when you're on the go. Both are water-resistant up to 50 metres¹, making them the perfect companion for swimming and water sports. And with exceptional health monitoring features⁵, including heart rate, blood pressure and sleep tracking, you can get to grips with all your vitals in no time.

¹Water resistance rating of 50 metres under the ISO standard 22810:2010. It is not suitable for diving or high-pressure water activities. If the device or your hands are wet, they must be dried thoroughly prior to handling.
²Provided when GPX format route file is imported for hiking and cycling and route is set as target under Samsung Health settings.
³Sending SOS calls and messages requires a network connection and smartphone pairing.
Fall detection can initiate an Emergency call and message if you take a hard fall and don't seem to move. It cannot detect all falls. The more physically active you are, the more likely you are to trigger Fall Detection due to high impact activity that can appear to be a fall.
⁴The typical capacity has been tested under third party laboratory conditions. The typical capacity is the estimated average capacity considering the deviation in battery capacity among the battery samples tested under the IEC 61960-3 standard. Rated capacity is 573mAh. Actual battery life may vary depending on network environment, usage patterns and other factors.
⁵Intended for general wellness and fitness purposes. Not intended for use in detection, diagnoses, treatment of any medical condition or disease.

Galaxy Watch4 | Watch4 Classic

The Samsung Galaxy Watch4 series was released in 2021 and included two models: the Galaxy Watch4 and the Galaxy Watch4 Classic. Both models feature a circular AMOLED display and run on Samsung's latest Wear OS operating system.

A standout feature of the Galaxy Watch4 series is its integration with the Google ecosystem. It includes Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play, allowing you to access your favourite smartwatch apps and services directly from your wrist.

The Galaxy Watch4 and Watch4 Classic both come in 40mm and 44mm sizes, with the Watch4 Classic featuring a more traditional design with a rotating bezel. Both models also offer a long battery life making them a great option for those looking for a feature-rich smartwatch that can keep up with their active lifestyle.

Galaxy Watch3

Released in 2020 the Galaxy Watch3 featured a circular display and a rotating bezel for easy navigation. It was available in two sizes; 41mm and 45mm. One of the key advancements of the Galaxy Watch3 was its improved health and wellness monitoring capabilities. It included a heart rate monitor, blood oxygen level monitor, and an electrocardiogram (ECG) feature, to help monitor and manage your overall wellness. In addition to health tracking, the Galaxy Watch3 continued to offer a broad range of smart features for everyday use.

Galaxy Watch

The original Galaxy Watch series was released in 2018 and included Galaxy Watch and Galaxy Watch Active models. With a traditional watch design, they were optimised to track and monitor your favourite health and fitness activities. They also offered a range of clever features including smartphone notifications and music playback. The built-in speaker and microphone allowed you to make and receive phone calls directly from your wrist. They were a great option for those wanting a smartwatch that could keep up with their active lifestyle.

*Do not measure your body composition if you are pregnant, have an implanted pacemaker or other implanted medical devices.
**ECG and BP feature only to be used by 22 years+. For accurate BP readings, monthly calibration required by GP or BP monitor & arm cuff. Requires a Galaxy smartphone running Android 8.0 or above
***Intended for general wellness and fitness purposes only. Not intended for use in detection, diagnosis, treatment of any medical condition or disease. The measurements are for your personal reference only. Please consult a medical professional for advice.
****Compatible Smartphone required. Blood oxygen is for fitness and wellness purposes only and not intended for use in detection, diagnosis, treatment of any medical condition or disease. The measurements are for your personal reference only. Please consult a qualified medical healthcare professional for advice.
*****The Galaxy Watch5 must be paired with a smartphone to use the sleep management function. For best results in detecting and recording snoring, place your smartphone on a stable surface near your head with the bottom of the smartphone pointed to your head. The default setting for snoring detection is off. Users can turn the setting on with their smartphone at anytime using the Samsung Health App 6.18 version or above. Advanced insights from the National Sleep Foundation is only available on a smartphone paired with the Galaxy Watch5.
******Requires Samsung Galaxy smartphone with Android 8.0 or above. Available with participating networks, banks and merchants

Galaxy Watch Ultra vs Watch 7 vs Watch 6 Classic

Size
Weight
Display
Material
Battery
Fast Charge⁶
Wireless Charging
Dust and Water Resistance
Activity Tracking
Blood Oxygen Analysis⁷
Blood Pressure and ECG⁸
Sleep tracking⁹
Advanced Sleep monitoring and coaching
Body Composition¹⁰
Route workout / Track back
Fall Detection for cycling, running, hiking¹¹

Galaxy Watch Ultra

Size : 47mm
Weight : 94g
Display : Sapphire crystal
Material : Titanium (Grade 4)
Battery : 590mAh Fast
Fast Charge⁶ : Yes
Wireless Charging : 10ATM + IP68 + MIL-STD 810H
Dust and Water Resistance : 5ATM/IP68/MIL-STD-810H
Activity Tracking : Yes
Blood Oxygen Analysis⁷ : Yes
Blood Pressure and ECG⁸ : Yes
Sleep tracking⁹ : Yes
Advanced Sleep monitoring and coaching : Yes
Body Composition¹⁰ : Yes
Route workout / Track back : Yes
Fall Detection for cycling, running, hiking¹¹ : Yes

Galaxy Watch7

Size : 40mm | 44mm
Weight : 28.9g | 33.8g
Display : Sapphire crystal
Material : Armour Aluminium
Battery : 300mAh | 425mAh
Fast Charge⁶ : Yes
Wireless Charging : Yes
Dust and Water Resistance : 5ATM/ IP68/ MIL-STD-810H
Activity Tracking : Yes
Blood Oxygen Analysis⁷ : Yes
Blood Pressure and ECG⁸ : Yes
Sleep tracking⁹ : Yes
Advanced Sleep monitoring and coaching : Yes
Body Composition¹⁰ : Yes
Route workout / Track back : No
Fall Detection for cycling, running, hiking¹¹ : Yes

Galaxy Watch6 Classic

Size : 43mm | 47mm
Weight : 52.0g | 59.0g
Display : Sapphire crystal
Material : Stainless Steel
Battery : 300mAh | 425mAh
Fast Charge⁶ : Yes
Wireless Charging : Yes
Dust and Water Resistance : 5ATM/IP68/MIL-STD-810H
Activity Tracking : Yes
Blood Oxygen Analysis⁷ : Yes
Blood Pressure and ECG⁸ : Yes
Sleep tracking⁹ : Yes
Advanced Sleep monitoring and coaching : Yes
Body Composition¹⁰ : Yes
Route workout / Track back : Yes
Fall Detection for cycling, running, hiking¹¹ : Yes

6. Testing conducted by Samsung using preproduction Galaxy Watch5 (BT & LTE), each paired with a Samsung phone; all devices tested with prerelease software, Galaxy Watch Magnetic Fast Charging USB-C Cable (EP-OR900), and Samsung 25W USB-C Power Adapter (EP-TA800). Charge time varies with region, settings, and environmental factors; actual results will vary.
7. SpO2 is defined as saturation of percutaneous oxygen. Normal levels in humans are measured at approximately 95-100%. Factors like vigorous exercise, the amount of oxygen in the air, your elevation, and various health conditions can all result in lower readings.
8. ECG and BP feature only to be used by 22 years+. For accurate BP readings, monthly calibration required by GP or BP monitor & arm cuff. Requires a Galaxy smartphone running Android 8.0 or above.
9. For best results in detecting and recording snoring, place your smartphone on a stable surface near your head with the bottom of the smartphone pointed to your head.
10. Intended for general wellness and fitness purposes. Not intended for use in detection, diagnoses, treatment of any medical condition or disease. DO NOT measure your body composition if you are pregnant or have an implanted pacemaker or other implanted medical devices.
11. Can initiate an Emergency call and message if you take a hard fall and don't seem to move. The more physically active you are, the more likely you are to trigger Fall Detection due to high impact activity that can appear to be a fall. Sending SOS calls and messages requires network connection and smartphone pairing.

Which Samsung watch is best?

Looking for the best all-round smartwatch? You can’t go wrong with the Samsung Galaxy Watch7. If you’re looking for a watch that effortlessly combines style, functionality, and advanced AI technology this is the one you want. Bursting with impressive features, including Dual GPS fitness tracking, next generation AI-powered health monitoring, sleep coaching, 4G connectivity*, and so much more - the Galaxy Watch7 makes tracking your health and wellness a pleasure rather than a chore.

If diving into the extremes is more your thing, check out the Galaxy Watch Ultra. It’s an endurance athletes dream - at home in the mountains, the shallows and everywhere in between. It’s both a head-turning timepiece and iconic sports watch in one. With an all new processor, immense battery life, and military grade titanium build, the Galaxy Watch Ultra goes all the way to the finish line, every single time.

*4G LTE models only. 4G data plan sold separately. Intended for general wellness and fitness purposes only. Not intended for use in detection, diagnosis, treatment of any medical condition or disease. The measurements are for your personal reference only. Please consult a medical professional for advice.