Samsung Galaxy Watch and Apple Watch: two captivating smartwatches offering advanced features. Explore their similarities and differences to find your perfect smartwatch companion. Make an informed decision and take action to elevate your wearable technology experience.
In the realm of smartwatches, the Galaxy Watch 5 shines as a superior choice to the Apple Watch Series 7 for various compelling reasons. However, it is crucial to consider specific aspects of each watch before making a purchase decision. With outstanding features and exquisite designs, both options hold considerable appeal and can serve as excellent companions.
The Galaxy Watch 5 and Apple Watch Series 7 present notable differences in terms of release dates, with the former launching in August 2022 and the latter making its debut on October 8, 2021. With nearly a year between their releases, Samsung had ample time to refine its smartwatch offering, offering customers a more advanced and cost-effective option. Each brand also offers multiple versions of their watches. Samsung provides the Galaxy Watch 5 and Watch 5 Pro, while Apple offers options in aluminum and stainless steel for the Apple Watch Series 7.
Galaxy Watch 5 vs. Apple Watch 7: Battery Life
When it comes to battery life, many smartwatches struggle to meet expectations. However, the Galaxy Watch 5 distinguishes itself with notable improvements in this area. The larger 44mm variant of the Galaxy Watch 5 boasts a 410mAh battery, while the smaller 40mm model features a 284mAh cell. Samsung claims that the Watch 5 series can provide up to 50 hours of usage on a single charge, surpassing its predecessor, the Watch 4, by an additional 10 hours. In contrast, the Apple Series 7 incorporates a 309mAh battery, delivering a mere 18 hours of usage on a full charge. With such a significant advantage, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 excels in terms of smartwatch battery longevity.
(Credit: Samsung)
In terms of charging speed, Samsung claims that connecting the Watch 5 to its dedicated charger for a brief eight-minute period before going to bed will provide enough battery life to track your sleep for a full eight hours. This feature was clearly influenced by Apple, as the Series 7 also advertises the same battery performance. Both smartwatches provide convenient sleep monitoring for users with their dedicated chargers, prioritizing smart health watches.
The charging time for a full charge on the Watch 5 has not been disclosed yet. However, Samsung has stated that just 30 minutes of charging will increase the battery level by 45%. On the other hand, the Series 7 of Apple Watch can go from completely drained to 80% charged in a quick 45-minute timeframe.
(Credit: Apple)
If you’re seeking exceptional battery life, the Watch 5 Pro from Samsung is worth considering. This robust smartwatch is designed for outdoor enthusiasts, including mountain bikers, runners, and hikers. With a substantial 590mAh battery, the Watch 5 Pro offers remarkable longevity, delivering up to 80 hours of power per charge or 20 hours with GPS enabled. Its impressive battery performance sets a new standard in the world of smartwatches, ensuring that you can rely on your device for extended outdoor adventures.
Galaxy Watch 5 vs. Apple Watch 7: Design and Price
When it comes to design, the most noticeable distinction between Samsung and Apple’s smartwatches lies in their shapes. The Watch 5 showcases a sleek round case, while the Series 7 features a rectangular one. Personal preferences vary, with some individuals favoring Apple’s rectangular design for better readability of text on the screen. On the other hand, others find the round case of the Watch 5 to be more visually appealing from an aesthetic standpoint.
(Credit: pcmag)
Setting aside the discussions about case shape, enthusiasts of Samsung’s smartwatches might be disappointed to learn that both the Watch 5 and Watch 5 Pro do not include a physical rotating bezel, a sought-after feature found in various Samsung smartwatches, including the Watch 4 Classic from the previous year.
This physical rotating bezel facilitated seamless navigation throughout the user interface. Instead, the Watch 5 and Watch 5 Pro introduce a digital bezel integrated into the screen, which, although not physically turning, enables users to navigate by effortlessly gliding their finger along the outer edge of the screen. It’s important to note that these models, despite lacking the physical rotating bezel, still serve as efficient blood pressure smartwatches.
In terms of pricing, the Samsung Watch 5 has a starting price of $279.99 for the Bluetooth/Wi-Fi model, while the LTE version begins at $329.99. On the other hand, the Watch 5 Pro is priced at $449.99 for the Bluetooth/Wi-Fi variant and $499.99 for the LTE version. Samsung has also stated that the Watch 4 Classic from the previous year will continue to be available for purchase, catering to individuals who prefer a smartwatch with a rotating bezel.
The Apple Watch Series 7 comes with a starting price of $399 for the GPS-only model, while opting for cellular connectivity raises the price to $499. Alternatively, the Apple Watch SE begins at $279, providing a more budget-friendly option. For those seeking a more affordable choice, the Series 3 is still available for purchase at $199.
SAMSUNG GALAXY WATCH 5 VS. APPLE WATCH 7: SENSORS
The Apple Watch Series 7 boasts an array of sensors to enhance its capabilities. It is equipped with a blood oxygen sensor and an ECG feature, enabling users to monitor their blood oxygen levels and even perform electrocardiograms. Additionally, the watch provides notifications in the event of unusually high or low heart rates, ensuring users stay informed about their cardiovascular health.
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 surpasses these capabilities by introducing the Samsung BioActive Sensor. This innovative feature encompasses sleep tracking, heart rate monitoring, and blood oxygen measurement. Additionally, the watch includes a body composition analysis tool, enabling users to track factors such as water retention and bone density. Samsung assures that these advanced functionalities will facilitate personalized workouts and a customized approach to goal setting, enhancing the overall user experience.
(Credit Image: Apple)
In addition, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 incorporates a temperature sensor, a feature that has been the subject of rumors for the upcoming Apple Watch 8 but is not currently available in the Series 7. Furthermore, depending on the user’s region, blood pressure measurements can also be obtained with the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5, offering an additional health monitoring option.
Winner: Samsung Galaxy Watch 5. The inclusion of various health tracking features provides valuable resources for individuals prioritizing their fitness and well-being.
SAMSUNG GALAXY WATCH 5 VS. APPLE WATCH 7: INTERFACE AND USER EXPERIENCE
As expected, the compatibility of your smartwatch choices may be influenced by your smartphone selection. The Apple Watch Series 7 necessitates an iPhone and is not compatible with any Android devices. On the other hand, the Galaxy Watch 5, similar to its predecessor, is exclusively compatible with Android smartphones.
In terms of user experience, both watches offer a familiar interface, reminiscent of either iOS or Android, depending on your chosen smartwatch. Regardless of your preference, you can expect a seamless and intuitive user interface when interacting with these designer smartwatches.
In terms of battery life, the Apple Watch 7 boasts approximately 18 hours of usage, while the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 guarantees an impressive 50 hours. Although real-life usage may cause variations, it is undeniable that the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 outshines its counterpart in this aspect. Furthermore, with its new USB-C-based charger, the Galaxy Watch 5 not only charges faster than its predecessor, the Galaxy Watch 4, but it is also likely to surpass the Apple Watch in terms of charging speed.
Winner: Samsung Galaxy Watch 5. With its impressive battery life, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 takes the crown. Offering the convenience of less frequent recharging, it delivers a desirable experience that leaves little to be desired.
SAMSUNG GALAXY WATCH 5 VS. APPLE WATCH 7: VERDICT
Both smartwatches, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 and Apple Watch Series 7, represent refined iterations of their predecessors. The decision between the two may predominantly hinge on smartphone compatibility. However, when evaluating their features independently of compatibility, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 emerges as the clear winner for individuals with a strong inclination towards health tracking.
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 presents a compelling option for fitness enthusiasts, thanks to its comprehensive array of health sensors and body composition analysis tools. Coupled with its impressive battery life and competitive pricing, it becomes an irresistible choice for Android users seeking a feature-rich and value-packed smartwatch.
However, for iPhone users, it may be wise to exercise patience and await the unveiling of the Apple Watch 8, which is expected to bring new and exciting features to the table. Alternatively, contemplating a switch in smartphones could also be considered if the desire for a new smartwatch is particularly strong.
Specs
| Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 | Apple Watch Series 7 | |
| Display Size | 40mm: 1.2 inches 44mm: 1.4 inches | 41mm: 1.61 inches 45mm: 1.77 inches |
| Body Size | 40mm: 39.3 x 40.4 x 9.8mm 44mm: 43.3 x 44.4 x 9.8mm | 41mm: 41 x 35 x10.7 mm (1.61 x 1.38 x 0.42 inches) 45mm: 45 x 38 x 10.7 mm (1.77 x 1.50 x 0.42 inches) |
| Weight | 40mm: 28.7g 44mm: 33.5g | 41mm Aluminium: 32.0g 41mm Stainless Steel: 42.3g 41mm Titanium: 37.0g 45mm Aluminium: 38.8g 45mm Stainless Steel: 51.5g 45mm Titanium: 45.1g |
| Resolution in pixels | 40mm: 396 x 396 44mm: 450 x 450 | 41mm: 368 x 448 45mm: 396 x 484 |
| Storage | 16GB | 32GB |
| Wireless interface | Bluetooth 5.2, Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n 2.4+5GHz, NFC, LTE | Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n 2.4+5GHz, NFC, LTE |
| Depth | 9.8mm | 10.7mm |
| Blood oxygen senson | Yes | Yes |
| Accelerometer | Yes | Yes |
| Gyroscope | Yes | Yes |
| Ambient light sensor | Yes | Yes |
| Heart rate sensor | Yes | Yes |
| Body temperature | Yes | No |
