In recent times, Samsung, much like Apple, has adopted a more conservative approach towards innovation. This trend is noticeable not only in their premium smartphones, such as the Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+, Galaxy Z Flip 5, and Galaxy Z Fold 5, which primarily focus on incremental performance and imaging enhancements, but also in their smartwatches. The Galaxy Watch 6 series is a testament to this, continuing the tradition of subtle improvements.
These enhancements include a new chipset, slightly larger displays, and more personalized health and fitness tracking features. While, on paper, these changes may not seem groundbreaking, they do contribute to making the Galaxy Watch 6 and Galaxy Watch 6 Classic better options for both existing smartwatch users seeking an upgrade and newcomers looking for their first WearOS-powered device.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 and Galaxy Watch 6 Classic Pricing and Variants:
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 series comes in two models. The standard Galaxy Watch 6 is available in 40mm and 44mm case sizes, maintaining the same sizes as the previous Galaxy Watch 5. Prices for the Bluetooth variants are Rs. 29,999 and Rs. 32,999, while the cellular versions are priced at Rs. 33,999 and Rs. 36,999. The Galaxy Watch 6 Classic offers case sizes of 43mm and 47mm, with Bluetooth variants priced at Rs. 36,999 and Rs. 39,999, and cellular variants at Rs. 40,999 and Rs. 43,999. However, compared to Apple's offerings, Samsung's finish options may feel somewhat limited, with the Galaxy Watch 6 in Silver and Graphite, and the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic in Silver and Black.
Design and Specifications:
The Galaxy Watch 6 maintains the design language of its predecessors, featuring an aluminum case with flat sides. The most noticeable change is the slightly larger display achieved by reducing the bezel's thickness. Unfortunately, for casual observers, distinguishing between the Galaxy Watch 4, Galaxy Watch 5, and Galaxy Watch 6 can be quite challenging. This stagnation in design evolution over the past two generations may be seen as a drawback.
In contrast, the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic makes a refreshing return after a year-long hiatus. Unlike the previous year, when Samsung introduced the Pro model, the Classic edition reintroduces the beloved rotating bezel, setting it apart. While the Galaxy Watch 5 Pro offered a larger battery and a titanium case, it didn't bring many additional features compared to the standard Galaxy Watch 5. The Classic's rotating bezel is its standout feature and a deciding factor when choosing between the two models. Notably, Samsung managed to reduce the bezel's width on the Classic, accommodating a larger display while maintaining a clean, premium dual-tone finish on the stainless steel case.
Both models feature two physical buttons that can be customized for various functions. In terms of comfort, the standard Galaxy Watch 6's strap feels softer and less stiff compared to the Classic model. However, since both watches use 20mm straps, they can be easily swapped, and despite the Classic's thicker 47mm case, it remains comfortable to wear, even during sleep.
Performance:
Both the standard Galaxy Watch 6 and the Classic edition share similar specifications. They are powered by the same 5nm Exynos W930 chipset, with an additional 500MB of RAM compared to their predecessors, totaling 2GB. These watches come equipped with a range of sensors, including an accelerometer, gyroscope, compass, heart rate tracker, skin temperature sensor, barometer, and a 3D hall sensor used for bezel navigation.
The slim bezels allow both the 44mm Galaxy Watch 6 and the 47mm Galaxy Watch 6 Classic to offer similar 1.5-inch Super AMOLED displays with sapphire crystal protection. Additionally, both models feature 425mAh batteries in the same variants, with smaller models packing 300mAh batteries. All models and variants are rated for 5ATM water resistance with an IP68 rating and have undergone MIL-STD-810H testing for durability.
Performance:
Both models feature displays capable of reaching 2,000 nits of peak brightness, similar to the Apple Watch Ultra. This brightness ensures excellent visibility under various lighting conditions. The built-in speakers deliver sufficient volume for call handling and interaction with Google Assistant, while the microphone offers clear audio, even in windy conditions. LTE connectivity makes these watches ideal for staying connected during outdoor activities, allowing users to leave their smartphones behind. Both models can connect to Wi-Fi networks when the paired smartphone is out of range.
In terms of software, no additional apps are needed when pairing the watch with a Samsung device, as everything comes preinstalled. However, using the watch with a Pixel 7a requires the installation of three apps (Samsung Health, Galaxy Wearable, and Samsung Smart Switch) and a plug-in for seamless functionality. The Samsung Health and Galaxy Wearable apps are well-designed, although integrating the Health app into the Wearable app for convenience would be a welcome future improvement.
Both the Galaxy Watch 6 and Galaxy Watch 6 Classic offer a smooth software experience. However, the Classic's rotating bezel adds a mechanical element that sets it apart from most WearOS-powered smartwatches, making it feel closer to traditional timepieces. The tactile feedback from the bezel's geared clicks provides a convenient way to scroll through menus, an improvement over repeatedly swiping the display. While the Galaxy Watch 6 features a virtual touch bezel for scrolling, it doesn't offer the same level of precise control as the physical rotating bezel.
Software performance has significantly improved compared to the previous model. There is no noticeable lag when switching between tiles, watch faces, and other functions, addressing the performance issues experienced with the Galaxy Watch 5 Pro.
With the One UI 5.0 Watch interface, Samsung introduces new watch faces that are highly customizable, though the selection still falls short of what's available on the Apple