Samsung's current watch lineup includes the Galaxy Watch 7, Galaxy Watch Ultra, and Galaxy Watch FE

Samsung released the Galaxy Watch 7 and Galaxy Watch Ultra in July 2024. The Galaxy Watch 7 comes in 40mm and 44mm sizes with a 1.3-inch or 1.5-inch display, runs Wear OS 5, and costs around $300 for the Bluetooth model. The Galaxy Watch Ultra is the larger, more rugged option at 47mm with a 1.4-inch display, designed for outdoor activities, and starts around $650. Both models include Samsung's latest health sensors and faster processors than previous generations.

The Galaxy Watch FE, released earlier in 2024, is Samsung's budget option at around $200. It has a 1.2-inch display, comes in one size, and includes core health tracking features but lacks some of the advanced sensors found in the Watch 7 and Ultra.

All three models run Wear OS 5 and connect to Android phones. Samsung also continues to sell older models like the Galaxy Watch 6 and Watch 6 Classic at lower prices through various retailers, though these are no longer the newest releases.

Key Takeaways

  • The Galaxy Watch 7 is Samsung's standard flagship watch, available in two sizes, with improved health sensors and a faster processor than previous models.
  • The Galaxy Watch Ultra is built for outdoor use with a larger, more durable design and costs significantly more than the Watch 7.
  • The Galaxy Watch FE offers basic smartwatch features at a lower price point if you want Samsung's latest software without premium sensors.
  • All current Samsung watches run Wear OS 5 and work with Android phones, though some features may vary by model.

What's different about the Galaxy Watch 7 compared to the Watch 6

The Galaxy Watch 7 has a faster processor, improved health sensors, and better battery life than the Watch 6. Samsung added a new skin temperature sensor and improved the blood pressure and blood oxygen monitoring. The display is brighter and the watch charges faster.

The Watch 6 still works well and receives software updates, so if you already own one, upgrading is not necessary. The main reason to switch is if you want the latest health tracking features or prefer the newer design.

Galaxy Watch Ultra: who needs the rugged model

The Galaxy Watch Ultra is designed for people who spend time outdoors doing activities like hiking, diving, or extreme sports. It has a larger case made of titanium, a brighter display that works better in sunlight, and a physical button on the side for quick access to apps. The watch is rated for water resistance up to 100 meters and can handle temperature swings from -10°C to 60°C.

If you use your watch mainly for daily wear, checking messages, and casual fitness tracking, the Galaxy Watch 7 will do everything you need. The Ultra costs more than twice as much and is built for a specific use case. The extra durability and features only matter if you actually use them.

Health tracking features across the three models

All three watches track heart rate, steps, calories burned, and sleep. The Galaxy Watch 7 and Ultra include blood pressure monitoring, blood oxygen (SpO2) measurement, and skin temperature sensing. The Watch FE has heart rate and SpO2 but lacks blood pressure and skin temperature.

None of these watches are medical devices. They estimate health metrics based on sensors on your wrist, and those estimates can be off by several points. If you need accurate medical readings, use a device designed for that purpose and talk to your doctor about what the watch shows.

Battery life and charging

The Galaxy Watch 7 lasts about two days on a single charge with typical use. The Galaxy Watch Ultra lasts longer—around three days—because of its larger battery. The Watch FE gets about two days as well. Battery life varies based on how often you use the display, enable always-on mode, and run background apps.

All three models charge wirelessly using Samsung's charging dock. The Watch 7 and Ultra charge faster than older models, reaching full battery in about an hour. If you travel or exercise frequently, you may want to charge every night to avoid the watch dying during the day.

Compatibility and software

All current Samsung watches work with Android phones running Android 9 or later. They do not work with iPhones. The watches run Wear OS 5, which Samsung customizes with its own interface and apps. You can read apps from the Google Play Store for Wear OS, though the selection is smaller than for phones.

Samsung pushes software updates regularly to all three models. Older watches like the Watch 6 continue to receive updates, so you are not locked out of new features just because you own a previous generation.

Price and where to buy

The Galaxy Watch 7 starts at around $300 for the Bluetooth version and $400 for the LTE model that works without your phone nearby. The Galaxy Watch Ultra starts around $650. The Galaxy Watch FE costs around $200. Prices vary by retailer and change during sales events.

You can buy directly from Samsung's website, from carriers like Verizon and T-Mobile, or from retailers like Best Buy and Amazon. Older models like the Watch 6 are often discounted at these same places. Compare prices across retailers before buying, as the same watch can cost different amounts depending on where you shop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a Samsung watch with an iPhone?

No. Samsung watches run Wear OS and are designed for Android phones. If you have an iPhone, you would need an Apple Watch instead. This is a hard limitation and will not change with software updates.

Is the Galaxy Watch 7 waterproof?

The Galaxy Watch 7 is water-resistant up to 50 meters, which means it can handle swimming and snorkeling but not diving. The Galaxy Watch Ultra is rated to 100 meters. Check the specifications for your specific model before using it in water.

Do I need LTE on my watch?

LTE lets your watch make calls and send messages without your phone nearby. If you always have your phone with you, the Bluetooth model is fine and costs less. LTE is useful if you run or exercise without carrying your phone.

How long do Samsung watches last before they stop working?

Most Samsung watches last three to five years with normal use before the battery degrades or hardware fails. Samsung supports older models with software updates for several years after release. After that, the watch still works but may not receive new features.

What's the difference between the Watch 7 and Watch Ultra if I don't do outdoor sports?

For everyday use, the Watch 7 does everything the Ultra does. The Ultra's extra durability, larger size, and brighter display are only advantages if you actually use them. The Watch 7 is lighter, cheaper, and comes in more size options.