Samsung's Galaxy Watch 6 was released last year with a number of upgrades, including a more refined design, boosted performance, and advanced wellness features. The Galaxy Watch 5 was already a good smartwatch, but how does it compare to its successor?
In this Galaxy Watch 5 vs 6 comparison, I'll point out the key similarities and differences between the two watches to help you decide if an upgrade is worth it. I'll also give my verdict and suggest some other great smartwatch alternatives. Let's get started!
Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 vs 6: The Verdict
Verdict: Galaxy Watch 6 wins
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 secures its place as the best overall option, with significant upgrades in display size, processing power, and overall performance. While the Galaxy Watch 5 remains a solid wearable, the improvements offered by the Galaxy Watch 6 make it a better fit for users who are after a more refined smartwatch experience.
The Galaxy Watch 6 builds on the strengths of its predecessor with a faster Exynos W930 chip, larger and brighter displays, and increased RAM for better performance. The Galaxy Watch 6 does offer better power efficiency, but it doesn't significantly extend the battery life compared to the Galaxy Watch 5.
While both models have similar battery capacities, the Watch 6's upgraded performance features, like the larger screen and faster processor, demand more power. Therefore, users who prioritize longer battery life might still prefer the Galaxy Watch 5, which is more efficient in that regard under similar usage conditions. If you’re after a detailed technical, side-by-side comparison of the two smartwatches, including sensor functionality, and software updates, continue perusing the next section.
Let’s explore how each of these smartwatches excels in different areas.
Best Budget-Friendly: Galaxy Watch 5
The Galaxy Watch 5 remains the more budget-friendly option. Its longer battery life and similar health tracking features make it a strong contender for those looking for value without sacrificing core functions.
Best Overall: Galaxy Watch 6
With a faster processor, larger displays, and thinner bezels, the Galaxy Watch 6 stands as the best overall choice for users who want top-tier performance and visuals. It’s faster and more stylish, which makes wearing it even more enjoyable.
Best Fitness Tracking: Tie
Both the Galaxy Watch 5 and Galaxy Watch 6 excel in fitness tracking, featuring Samsung’s BioActive Sensor for heart rate, ECG, and body composition measurements. Both models include the same advanced health tracking sensors, ensuring that whether you choose the Watch 5 or Watch 6, you’ll get accurate fitness monitoring.
Best Health Monitoring: Galaxy Watch 6
While the health sensors remain largely the same, the Galaxy Watch 6 offers enhanced health software features like updated sleep tracking and personalized heart rate zones. These upgrades make it the better option for users focused on detailed health metrics and insights.
Best in Battery Life: Galaxy Watch 5
Despite the Galaxy Watch 6’s improvements, the Galaxy Watch 5 offers better battery life. While both models have similar battery capacities, the Watch 5 tends to last longer under practical conditions. If battery longevity is your top priority, the Watch 5 edges out its successor in this category.
Best in Performance: Galaxy Watch 6
Using the Exynos W930 processor with 33% more RAM compared to the Galaxy Watch 5, the Galaxy Watch 6 delivers a noticeable boost in performance. Apps open faster, and overall multitasking is smoother, making it the go-to option for users who want a more responsive smartwatch.
Best in Display Quality: Galaxy Watch 6
The Galaxy Watch 6 takes the lead in display quality, thanks to its larger, higher-resolution Super AMOLED screens and slimmer bezels. With brightness levels that make it easy to view in direct sunlight, the Watch 6 offers a superior visual experience, perfect for users who prioritize display clarity.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 vs 6: Detailed Comparison
Disclaimer: This is not a product review. I’ve gathered information from multiple sources, verified its accuracy, conducted additional research, and condensed it all into this section. I haven’t personally tested these devices.
Below is a detailed comparison between the two models, highlighting their key differences in terms of health monitoring, fitness tracking, and smart features.
Health Monitoring:
- Sensors: Both watches feature Samsung’s BioActive sensor, which includes optical heart rate, electrical heart signal, and bioelectrical impedance analysis. The Watch 6 introduces minor improvements in software integration, but there are no significant hardware changes in terms of sensors.
- Temperature Sensing: Both watches come with temperature sensors. However, the Galaxy Watch 6 takes it a step further by allowing more advanced applications, like measuring environmental temperatures using the Thermo Check feature, which is not available in the Watch 5.
- Sleep Tracking: Both watches provide sleep tracking features, but the Galaxy Watch 6 enhances this with a new Sleep Score Analysis system that offers more detailed insights into physical and mental recovery, sleep cycles, and even provides tailored sleep coaching.
- Blood Pressure Monitoring: Both devices monitor blood pressure and detect irregular heart rhythms, but the Watch 6’s software updates make it more user-friendly with added functionalities like more detailed feedback.
Fitness Tracking:
- Personalized Heart Rate Zones: The Galaxy Watch 6 introduces a new "Personalized Heart Rate Zones" feature, which can help users to adjust workout intensity based on their fitness level. This feature is absent in the Galaxy Watch 5.
- Track Run and Exercise Modes: While both watches support a variety of exercise modes, the Watch 6 introduces enhanced running metrics, including the "Track Run" feature, which logs running history and metrics in more detail.
- Automatic Workout Detection: Both watches feature automatic workout detection, but watch 6 has proved to be more accurate and faster.
Smart Features:
- Display and Brightness: The Galaxy Watch 6 features a brighter display, with up to 2,000 nits, a valuable upgrade for those who run in the sun, compared to the Watch 5’s 1,000 nits.
- Processor and Performance: Powered by the Exynos W930, the Galaxy Watch 6 is faster than the Watch 5, which uses the Exynos W920. The Watch 6 also benefits from an extra 0.5GB of RAM — which multitaskers would definitely love.
- Software Updates: Both watches run on Samsung’s One UI 5, but the Watch 6 benefits from more advanced gesture controls and quicker access to apps. However, since the Galaxy Watch 5 will receive the same software updates, there is no long-term functional difference.
- Connectivity: The Galaxy Watch 6 features the newer Bluetooth 5.3 standard, providing a more stable connection, while the Watch 5 uses Bluetooth 5.2.
3 Alternatives to pixel watch 2 and 3 that might fit better to your needs.
1. Aether X Limited Edition Designer Smartwatch
Ultimate luxury smartwatch
If you're after a smartwatch with a premium design and advanced health features, the highly anticipated Aether X Limited Edition Designer Smartwatch is worth considering. Even though it hasn't been released yet, it's already creating a buzz among tech enthusiasts and consumers alike.
The Aether X is a luxurious smartwatch with a modern edge. Its metallic body and genuine red patina leather strap offer a sophisticated look. Packed with advanced health tracking features and 45 sports modes, it's designed for those seeking a blend of style and performance.
You can also track your sleep patterns and manage stress effectively with its advanced sensors. With only 10,000 pieces available, this exclusive smartwatch offers free shipping and up to 25% off.
2. Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
Best for Samsung users
Starting at $299 for the 40mm version and $329 for the 43mm version, the Galaxy Watch 6 is a top-tier smartwatch, especially for Android and Samsung users. It excels in health tracking with features like body composition analysis and snoring detection.
It is designed to help you reach your fitness goals and offers personalized workout guidance and sleep coaching. Its stylish, large display and smart features make it a versatile companion for everyday life.
3. Garmin Forerunner 165
Best for running
If you’re a running enthusiast, then Garmin smartwatches are for you. Garmin Forerunner leads the running watch market with a diverse selection of models. Known for its precision and extensive features, the Forerunner 165 meets the needs of most runners.
This model, which costs $249, offers a great balance between price and performance with features like accurate GPS, heart rate monitoring, and smart notifications.
Conclusion
The Galaxy Watch 6 is the best choice for those who want the most up-to-date features, particularly in fitness tracking, a brighter display for running in the sun, and enhanced overall performance. It's perfect for tech enthusiasts who value the latest innovations and want a smartwatch that can keep up with their active lifestyle.
However, if you're looking for a more affordable option that still offers reliable health monitoring and fitness tracking, the Galaxy Watch 5 remains a worthwhile choice.