Samsung Galaxy Watch Lineup 2024: Complete Comparison and Analysis
Tech YouTuber Mike O’Brien recently conducted an extensive hands-on comparison of Samsung’s latest smartwatch lineup, putting each model through rigorous testing including heart rate monitoring, GPS tracking, and real-world usage.
His comprehensive review dives deep into the differences between the Galaxy Watch Ultra, Watch7, Watch6, and Watch6 Classic, helping consumers make an informed decision based on their specific needs and preferences.
Quick Reference: Feature Comparison
| Feature | Watch Ultra | Watch7 | Watch6 | Watch6 Classic |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $649 | $299-$379 | $229-$289 | $329-$399 |
| Build Material | Titanium | Aluminum | Aluminum | Stainless Steel |
| Battery Size | 590mAh | 425mAh | 425mAh | 425mAh |
| Storage | 32GB | 32GB | 16GB | 16GB |
| GPS | Dual Band | Dual Band | Single Band | Single Band |
| Qi Charging | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Physical Bezel | No | No | No | Yes |
| Water Resistance | 10 ATM | 5 ATM | 5 ATM | 5 ATM |
According to Mike O’Brien’s detailed analysis, while the Galaxy Watch Ultra stands as the objectively best smartwatch with its premium titanium build and advanced features, the Galaxy Watch7 emerges as the most practical choice for most users by offering nearly identical core functionality at half the price.
The Watch7 delivers the same new bioactive sensor, dual-band GPS, and 32GB storage as the Ultra, making it a compelling value proposition despite lacking Qi wireless charging.
The Galaxy Watch6 Classic remains a strong contender, particularly for non-athletes, thanks to its premium stainless steel build and satisfying physical rotating bezel, though it misses out on the newer generation’s improved sensors and features.
The standard Galaxy Watch6 serves as a solid budget option, offering core functionality at a lower price point but without the latest improvements in tracking accuracy and performance.
Ultimately, O’Brien recommends the Galaxy Watch7 as the best overall choice for most users, striking an optimal balance between cutting-edge features and reasonable pricing, unless specific features like the Ultra’s superior battery life or the Classic’s physical bezel are priority requirements.
Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra
Pros:
- Premium titanium build
- Extra programmable button
- Improved bioactive sensor (2.5x more LEDs)
- Dual-band GPS for better tracking
- Largest battery (590mAh)
- 32GB storage
- 10 ATM water resistance
- Race mode and triathlon features
- Emergency siren
Cons:
- Most expensive at $649
- No Qi wireless charging
- Proprietary watch strap system
- Only comes in 47mm size
- No physical rotating bezel
Samsung Galaxy Watch7
Pros:
- Same core features as Ultra at half the price
- New bioactive sensor
- Dual-band GPS
- 32GB storage
- Two size options (40mm/44mm)
- Standard watch strap compatibility
- Newer, faster processor
Cons:
- No Qi wireless charging
- Smaller battery than Ultra
- No physical rotating bezel
- Only 5 ATM water resistance
Samsung Galaxy Watch6
Pros:
- Most affordable option
- Standard watch strap compatibility
- Qi wireless charging support
- Two size options
- Familiar design
- Still receives updates
Cons:
- Older bioactive sensor
- Single-band GPS
- Less accurate heart rate tracking
- 16GB storage
- Older processor
- Missing newer AI features
Samsung Galaxy Watch6 Classic
Pros:
- Premium stainless steel build
- Physical rotating bezel
- Qi wireless charging support
- Two size options (43mm/47mm)
- More premium feel
- Excellent for non-athletes
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Single-band GPS
- 16GB storage
- Older processor
- Missing newer AI features
- Heavier than aluminum models
The Definitive Pick: Galaxy Watch7
After careful analysis of Mike O’Brien’s review, the Galaxy Watch7 emerges as the best option for most users. Here’s why:
- Value Proposition: It offers nearly all the Ultra’s features at half the price
- Future-Proofing: Latest processor and sensors ensure longevity
- Size Options: Available in both 40mm and 44mm for different wrist sizes
- Core Features: Includes all essential upgrades like:
- New bioactive sensor
- Dual-band GPS
- 32GB storage
- Latest software features
The only significant drawbacks are the lack of Qi wireless charging and slightly shorter battery life compared to the Ultra. However, these compromises are reasonable given the significant price difference.
Special Mentions
- Best Premium Option: Galaxy Watch Ultra (if budget isn’t a concern)
- Best for Style-Conscious Users: Galaxy Watch6 Classic (physical bezel + premium build)
- Best Budget Option: Galaxy Watch6 (great value with core features)
Final Thoughts
While each watch in Samsung’s lineup serves a specific audience, the Galaxy Watch7 hits the sweet spot of features, price, and future-proofing. Unless you specifically need the Ultra’s premium features or the Classic’s physical bezel, the Watch7 provides the best balance for most users.
The loss of Qi wireless charging across the newer models (Watch7 and Ultra) is disappointing, but the additional features and improvements in other areas generally outweigh this drawback. For those who consider wireless power share a must-have feature, the Watch6 Classic remains an excellent alternative.