Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 vs Galaxy Watch 6 Classic: Which Smartwatch is Right for You?

Samsung recently released its newest smartwatch models – the Galaxy Watch 6 and the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic. Both watches pack robust health and fitness tracking capabilities along with Samsung’s updated One UI Watch software.

However, there are some key differences between these two smartwatches that are worth examining so you can decide which one best fits your needs.

Pricing and Size Options

The Galaxy Watch 6 has a starting price of $279 for the 40mm Bluetooth version and $309 for the 44mm model. Meanwhile, the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic is more expensive at $349 for the 42mm Bluetooth variant and $379 for the 46mm size. (Note: all prices are MSRP, Amazon links above may have different prices).

Adding LTE cellular connectivity tacks on an extra $50 or so for both models.

In terms of sizing, the Galaxy Watch 6 comes in 40mm and 44mm options. The Galaxy Watch 6 Classic is available in 42mm and 46mm case diameters. Those with smaller wrists will likely find the 40mm or 42mm models provide the best fit.

Design and Display

There are noticeable design differences between the two smartwatches. The standard Galaxy Watch 6 utilizes an aerospace aluminum alloy casing along with a fluoroelastomer sport band, providing a lightweight and athletic look.

The Galaxy Watch 6 Classic channels a more elegant aesthetic with its stainless steel frame and leather band, reminiscent of traditional analog watches.

Both models use vivid AMOLED displays protected by durable sapphire crystal glass. The 40mm Watch 6 includes a 1.2” screen, while the 44mm has a 1.4” display. For the Classic, you get a 1.2” display on the 42mm and a larger 1.4” screen on the 46mm version.

Health Sensors and Fitness Tracking

Under the hood, the Galaxy Watch 6 and Galaxy Watch 6 Classic share the same array of health monitoring sensors, including:

• Optical heart rate sensor
• Electrical heart sensor
• ECG
• Blood oxygen saturation
• Accelerometer
• Gyroscope
• Barometer
• Ambient light sensor

These sensors enable robust tracking of steps, calories, heart rate, ECG, blood oxygen, sleep stages, stress levels, and more. You also get body composition measurements like skeletal muscle, basal metabolic rate, body water percentage, and body fat percentage.

Both watches provide workout detection for activities like running and cycling, along with over 90 customizable exercise modes. There’s also a new feature for defining heart rate zones based on your age and fitness level.

Battery Life and Charging

The 40mm Galaxy Watch 6 has a 276 mAh battery, while the 44mm gets a larger 397 mAh capacity. For the Classic, the 42mm includes a 276 mAh battery and the 46mm variant packs a 397 mAh battery.

Samsung estimates around 40-45 hours of runtime, or 30 hours with always-on display activated. You can get a 45% charge in just 30 minutes thanks to fast charging support. Both models charge wirelessly using the included magnetic USB cable.

Software, Apps, and Features

A major upgrade for the Galaxy Watch 6 series is Samsung’s One UI Watch 4 software. This maintains the Tizen OS backbone while incorporating aspects of Google’s Wear OS for expanded app support and tighter integration with Android phones.

Customizable watch faces, menus, widgets and notifications allow you to personalize the experience. The rotating bezel on the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic enables quick scrolling through screens.

Which One Should You Buy?

For most consumers, the Galaxy Watch 6 is the best option. It delivers the same great health and fitness tracking as the Classic, along with long battery life, in a lightweight and comfortable design. And it costs $80 less than the Classic.

But the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic is worth the extra investment if you want a more elegant, premium smartwatch with handy rotating bezel navigation. The classic styling also gives it wider appeal as a fashion accessory.

Ultimately, both are excellent smartwatches. The right choice comes down to your budget and personal preferences around style, size, and features.