Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 (Classic), Watch 5 (Pro) and Watch 4 (Classic) compared
| 2023 models | 2022 models | 2021 models | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Device | ||||||
| Image |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| Display | Super AMOLED 1.3-inch: 432 x 432 px 1.5-inch: 480 x 480 px | Super AMOLED 1.3-inch: 432 x 432 px 1.5-inch: 480 x 480 px | Super AMOLED 1.36-inch: 450×450 px | Super AMOLED 1.2-inch: 396×396 px 1.4-inch: 450×450 px | Super AMOLED 1.19 inch: 396×396 px 1.36 inch: 450×450 px | Super AMOLED 1.2 inch: 396×396 px 1.4 inch: 450×450 px |
| Working memory and SoC | Exynos W930 2 GB RAM 16 GB memory | Exynos W920 1.5 GB RAM 16 GB memory | Exynos W920 1.5 GB RAM 16 GB memory | |||
| Versions | 43 mm / 47 mm | 40 mm / 44 mm | 45 mm | 42 mm / 46 mm | 40 mm / 44 mm | |
| Battery | 43 mm: 300 mAh 47 mm: 425 mAh | 40 mm: 300 mAh 44 mm: 425 mAh | 45 mm: 590 mAh | 42 mm: 247 mAh 46 mm: 361 mAh | 40 mm: 284 mAh 44 mm: 410 mAh | 40 mm: 247 mAh 44 mm: 361 mAh |
| OS | One UI Watch 5 based on Wear OS 4.0 | One UI Watch 4.5 based on WearOS 3.5 | One UI Watch 3 based on WearOS 3 | |||
| Dimensions | 42.5 x 42.5 x 10.9 mm (43 mm) 46.5 x 46.5 x 10.9 mm (47 mm) | 38.8 x 40.4 x 9.0 mm (40 mm) 42.8 x 44.4 x 9.0 mm (44 mm) | 45.5 x 45.5 x 10.5 mm | 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) | 40.4 x 39.3 x 9.8 mm (40 mm) 44.4 x 43.3 x 9.8 mm (44 mm) |
| Water protection | 5 ATM, IP68 / MIL-STD-810H | IP68, MIL-STD-810H | IP68, MIL-STD-810G | IP68, 5 ATM, MIL-STD-810H | IP68, 5 ATM | |
| Pros |
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| Cons |
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| Rating | Read the Galaxy Watch 6 hands-on | Read the Galaxy Watch 5 Pro review | Read the Galaxy Watch 4 review | |||
| Check offer* | Pre-order | Pre-order | Buy now | Buy now | Buy now | Buy now |
Table of Contents
Before we begin with a detailed description of each smartwatch, you ought to know that Samsung’s models are subjected to the same requirements we have for any other smartwatch. It should track your vital signs, display notifications from your phone on your wrist, and even be able to make a call if necessary. You can read more about what to look for when buying a smartwatch in our smartwatch buying guide.
One more note: You cannot use Samsung smartwatches with an iPhone. If you are looking for a smartwatch for your Apple phone, we recommend our overview of Apple Watches.
Galaxy Watch 6: The Classic will be back in 2023!
| 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* | Pre-order | Pre-order |
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.
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 inches 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. If you were to look closely at the picture above, you can see that Camila is currently using a Watch 5 as well as an Apple Watch 8—and she clearly noticed the difference during her Galaxy Watch 6 (Classic) hands-on.
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 WearOS 4 as the operating system of choice, which offers a number of new features, such as numerous new complications and more customization options.
What should be noticeable in everyday use in our extensive hands-on? 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 450×450 px | Super AMOLED 1.19 inch: 396×396 px 1.36 inch: 450×450 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 WearOS 3.5 | One UI Watch 4.5 based on WearOS 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 |
| Rating | Read the Galaxy Watch 5 Pro review | |
| Price | from $449.99 | from $279.99 |
| Offer* | Buy now | Buy now |
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: 40 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.
In addition, Samsung abandoned the rotating bezel found in the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic and equipped the Watch 5 and 5 Pro with a digital bezel and two buttons instead. Both smartwatches run WearOS 3.5 with the One UI Watch 4.5 skin. Both are also powered by an Exynos W920 SoC, which is manufactured using a 5-nanometer process. Both come with 1.5 GB of RAM and 16 GB of internal storage. Both the Watch 5 and Watch 5 Pro have IP68 and 5 ATM certifications.
However, when it comes to features, the differences between the two models are clear. Although both the Galaxy Watch 5 and Watch 5 Pro can measure your pulse, SPO2, body temperature, blood pressure, body composition, and ECG, the Watch 5 Pro offers a number of exclusive features.
If you were to opt for the Pro model, for instance, you’ll benefit from the turn-by-turn navigation feature, the ability to import and export routes in GPX format, and the track-back feature that lets you instruct the watch to take you back to the starting point of your workout.
The two models also differ greatly in their stated battery life. The Galaxy Watch 5 has a 284 or 410 mAh battery, depending on the version, and is said to offer up to 40 hours of runtime. The Watch 5 Pro, on the other hand, offers a 592 mAh battery and is said to last 80 hours. As for its price, the Watch 5 models have dropped significantly in price. As of summer 2023, you can already get the normal Watch 5 for less than $300, while you will still pay $449 for the Pro model.
Galaxy Watch 5 and Watch 5 Pro: What is new compared to the previous models?
The Galaxy Watch 5 and 5 Pro do bring notable but not drastic changes compared to their predecessors. The standard Galaxy Watch 5 carries a few visual changes. The main new feature is the Sapphire glass display that is 1.6 times more scratch resistant. The Boa Purple, Graphite, and Pink Gold colors for the 40mm model and Sapphire, Silver, and Graphite for the 44mm model are also new.
The battery capacity has also increased across all models, going from 247 to 284 mAh on the 40 mm Watch 5 and from 361 to 410 mAh on the 44 mm version. This translates to approximately 10% higher battery life than the Galaxy Watch 4. In addition, the Galaxy Watch 5 now offers a body temperature sensor although it is not yet operational at launch. The Bluetooth standard has also been updated to feature version 5.2 instead of 5.0.
As for the Galaxy Watch 5 Pro, which replaces the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic, the visual changes are more significant. First of all, there is only one 45mm version, unlike the Watch 4 Classic which was available in 40 and 44mm iterations. In terms of design, the first change that jumps out is the removal of the rotating bezel on the Watch 5 Pro. The new model now features a plain screen with a digital bezel. The Watch 5 Pro is available in Black Titanium and Grey Titanium shades.
The Galaxy Watch 5 Pro uses a slightly smaller screen but still carries a 460×460 pixel resolution. However, the latter is protected by Sapphire glass and the stainless steel of the case has been replaced by titanium. The battery capacity has also increased from 361 mAh on the large version of the Watch 4 Classic, to 590 mAh on the Watch 5 Pro. This means the battery life should be able to achieve up to 80 hours versus 40 hours on the Watch 4 Classic.
As far as features are concerned, the Watch 5 Pro brings the three exclusive features mentioned in the previous section and also 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 WearOS 3 | One UI Watch 3 based on WearOS 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 |
| Rating | Galaxy Watch 4 review | |
| Price | from $299 | from $199 |
| Offer | Buy now | Buy now |
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.
Despite its larger size, the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic does not have a larger battery. As a result, you will have a 247 mAh battery in the 42 mm version or a 361 mAh battery in the 46 mm model. These are exactly the same values as found on the two models of the basic Watch 4. The Galaxy Watch 4 44 mm and Watch 4 Classic should offer twice the amount of battery life of their 40 and 42 mm variants.
When it comes to the screen, many things are also very similar. The standard Galaxy Watch 4 has a 1.2 or 1.4-inch Super AMOLED screen depending on the version, compared to 1.19 or 1.4-inches for the Watch 4 Classic. The screens on both models have resolutions of 396 x 396 or 450 x 450 pixels, respectively, depending on the version. All screens are protected by Corning Gorilla Glass DX.
The Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic are identical in terms of performance. They both feature an Exynos W920 SoC that used the 5nm manufacturing process and are mated to 1.5 GB of RAM and 16 GB of storage.
In addition, both smartwatches offer exactly the same features, including a sensor that allows them to determine heart rate, blood pressure, SPO22, body fat composition, the ability to track sleep quality and even take ECG readings. There is also GPS and NFC connectivity in the mix. As for prices, the Watch 4 costs from $199 for the 40mm model without 4G against $229 for the Watch 4 Classic.
Also, both smartwatches offer the exact same features, including a sensor array that allows them to measure heart rate, blood pressure, SpO2, body composition, sleep, and even ECG. They also feature GPS and NFC. Prices for the Watch 4 have dropped significantly in 2023: You can already get the Classic model for less than $200, and the basic model is even available for $130.
If you decide on a 2021 model, the choice will probably depend more on your design preference than your budget. If you have a larger wrist or prefer the style of a classic watch, the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic will suit you. Otherwise, the Galaxy Watch 4 will do the trick.
Galaxy Watch Bespoke Edition: This is how you can design your own Galaxy Watch.
It is possible to customize your Galaxy Watch 4 or Watch 5 as a Bespoke Edition. It is not yet clear whether you can customize the Galaxy Watch 6. Samsung will probably send out a press release about this matter at a later date.
You can change elements like the size of the case and the color as well. For instance, you can choose the 40 mm version in rose gold, silver, or graphite for the Galaxy Watch 5. You can also choose between a dial with a floral pattern or a more plain watch face.
Samsung also gives you the option to choose between different straps and clasps. Your Galaxy Watch 5 can come with a magnetic or sports clasp, a green leather strap, or a Milanese bracelet.
Samsung’s 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 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 4, 5, or 6? Which model is your heart set on: the Standard, Pro, or Classic? Let us know in the comments!
Article updated in August 2023 with current market prices. Comments prior to the update were kept and may look out of context.
