Last Updated on October 18, 2024 by Luis Cooper
In the ever-evolving world of smartwatches, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 and Apple Watch Series 9 stand out as two of the most anticipated devices, each offering a unique blend of features tailored to different user preferences.
With technological advancements, both watches promise enhanced functionality, stylish designs, and comprehensive health-tracking capabilities.
This comparison will delve into their battery life, design, and health and fitness tracking features, ultimately highlighting which smartwatch reigns supreme in today’s market.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 vs Apple Watch Series 9
Design:
The standard editions of the Galaxy Watch 7 and Watch 6 feature identical display specifications.
The 44mm models have 1.5-inch Super AMOLED screens with a resolution of 480 by 480 pixels, while the 40mm versions have 1.3-inch displays with a resolution of 432 by 432 pixels.
Regarding design, both watches are available in a variety of colours.
The 40mm version of the Galaxy Watch 7 can be found in shades of green or cream, while the 44mm model is offered in green or silver.
In contrast, the Watch 6’s 40mm variant is available in graphite or gold, and the 44mm version comes in graphite or silver.
For this review, Samsung provided the 40mm non-LTE model and a green rubber sport band.
Additionally, a fabric band or a rugged athleisure band are available.
The bands feature a quick-release button on the underside, allowing easy swapping to match different occasions.
While detaching the bands is simple, reattaching them was somewhat tricky; it requires a firm button squeeze to secure both sides properly.
The watch feels slightly tiny on my wrist, which isn’t unexpected given my larger build.
While it isn’t fragile at 0.38 inches (the larger version has the same thickness), it does have a pleasant lightweight feel, weighing in at just 1 ounce.
Battery Life:
Considering the improved energy efficiency from the upgraded processor and the Wear OS 5 software, I expected the Galaxy Watch 7 to provide better battery life than the Galaxy Watch 6, even though both models have identical battery capacities.
The 44mm versions are equipped with 425mAh batteries, while the 40mm models come with 300mAh cells.
Regrettably, the Galaxy Watch 7 has not made any significant improvements in this aspect.
The unsatisfactory battery life was a major drawback of the Galaxy Watch 6, and it’s puzzling that Samsung hasn’t tackled this issue with the new model.
In my initial test with the always-on display enabled, the Watch 7 lasted just 22 hours before it dropped to 1% battery and switched to time-only mode.
Even though I used the battery-draining GPS for a 30-minute run, I also put the watch in sleep mode for seven hours.
The Watch 6 showed a similar performance, also lasting 22 hours under similar conditions.
In a follow-up test without GPS, the Watch 7 managed to last 28 hours.
With the always-on display turned off and moderate GPS use, it operated for 27 hours, while the Watch 6 reached 28 hours in the same situation.
No matter which mode you select, daily charging of the Watch 7 is essential, and you may find yourself needing to recharge even more frequently if you rely heavily on GPS functionality.
Fortunately, the watch can go from 1% to a full 100% charge in a relatively quick 88 minutes, which is a convenient feature for users on the go.
Seamless Operations:
When the Galaxy Watch 7 is charged, it offers a fun and user-friendly experience.
The setup process is also quick and straightforward.
In addition to the watch, the box contains a magnetic charging cable that easily attaches to the bottom of the device, along with a booklet outlining the terms and conditions.
To power on the watch, simply press and hold the top right button.
If you’re pairing it with a Samsung phone, a setup prompt should pop up automatically on your device.
However, if you’re using a phone from a different brand or if the prompt doesn’t appear, you can easily locate and connect the watch via the regular Bluetooth settings.
To begin, make sure to download the Galaxy Wearable app if you haven’t already.
When you open the app, it will ask you to input the number shown on your watch to confirm the connection.
After that, you’ll go through several terms and agreements and will need to sign in to your Google account.
Following this, you can choose which apps to install and enable an optional feature to back up your watch data to the cloud.
You’ll also specify which wrist you plan to wear the watch on and the orientation of the buttons for your convenience.
The watch will guide you through several features, including workout routines and sleep apnea detection.
It will request permission to access your location and process your health data.
You’ll also select a focus for the watch’s health guidance, choosing from Overall Health, Sleep, Exercise, or Healthy Weight.
Finally, the watch will introduce its sleep features and ask if you want to enable the detection of blood oxygen levels, snoring, and skin temperature during sleep.
I opted to allow all three features for a comprehensive health monitoring experience.
Using the Watch 7 is straightforward and responsive.
The top button serves as the home button; you can tap it from any screen to return to your Home Screen or double-tap it to quickly access the last app you used.
If you press and hold this button, you’ll be able to launch Samsung’s digital assistant, Bixby.
The bottom button is designed for navigation, allowing you to go back one step when exploring apps, making it easy to discover the features of your watch.
To change your watch face, just press and hold on the current one to enter edit mode, where you can tweak its look.
If you swipe down from the top of the screen, you’ll get quick access to your settings.
To see your apps, swipe up from the bottom; you can easily rearrange them by dragging and dropping their icons. Super simple, right?
To scroll through your list or any open screen, just swipe your finger along the side of the watch.
For notifications, swipe right or left to access a customizable list of tiles.
You can choose from options like activity rings, body composition, energy score, exercise tracking, weather, and more, giving you a personalized touch right at your fingertips! How cool is that?
You can easily add tiles and options to the quick panel directly from your watch.
However, you’ll need to utilize the Galaxy Wearable app to remove or reorder these options.
This app allows for adjustments in the quick panel and provides access to a broader selection of watch faces and customization features, along with the useful Find My Watch function.
To maximize the capabilities of the Watch 7, you’ll need to download two additional apps on your phone.
The Samsung Health app lets you view in-depth metrics such as heart rate, sleep quality, and step count.
Meanwhile, the Samsung Health Monitor app provides insights into the ECG and Sleep Apnea features, enhancing your health tracking experience.
Specs:
| Brand | Samsung |
| Special features of the product | Touchscreen, Lightweight |
| Model name of the item | Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 |
| ASIN | B0D1YNVD88 |
| Batteries | 1 Lithium polymer batteries required. (included) |
| Dimensions of the product | 11.5 x 2.36 x 1.26 inches |
| Connectivity feature | Bluetooth |
| Weight of item | 5.9 ounces |
| Size | Standard |
| Compatible devices | Smartphones |
2. Apple Watch Series 9 [GPS 45mm]
Design:
The Apple Watch Series 9 is available in two sizes: 45mm and 41mm, with options for aluminum or stainless steel finishes.
It is 10.7 mm thick, has an IP6X dust resistance rating, and is water-resistant up to 50 meters.
Depending on the specific model, it weighs between 32 to 39 grams and is compatible with various bands.
While some critics argue that the Series 9 doesn’t introduce major innovations, it’s essential to recognise that the Series 8 was already a highly comfortable and well-designed smartwatch.
The consistent design approach demonstrates Apple’s ability to maintain a successful aesthetic rather than make changes just for its own sake.
The Series 9 continues the design legacy of the Series 8 and Series 7, which suggests that if you appreciate those models, you’ll likely enjoy the Series 9 as well.
However, if you weren’t a fan of the previous versions, the Series 9 may not change your perspective.
It’s worth noting that dismissing it solely based on appearance might overlook its strengths in fit, shape, and comfort.
The Apple Watch is recognized as one of the most wearable smartwatches.
It provides exceptional comfort for all-day wear and often surpasses traditional watches.
Though the rectangular shape of the Series 9 may not appeal to everyone, it has become iconic, influencing other brands to adopt similar designs.
Apple doesn’t need to make drastic design changes; they’ve already established a winning formula.
If you’re looking for a smartwatch that combines comfort with versatility, the Apple Watch Series 9 is an excellent choice.
It showcases Apple’s latest advancements in wearable technology.
Software:
I understand your concerns about adjusting to the new system.
It can definitely feel like more of a change than an improvement at times.
The introduction of the Smart Stack, which resembles the multi-widget feature from iOS, seems to be the main reason behind the navigation adjustments.
I get that double-pressing the Digital Crown to switch between apps can be inconvenient, especially when it defaults to showing the app menu.
Plus, having to press the lower button just to access the Control Center is a noticeable shift from the previous setup.
The vertical scrolling of apps in watchOS Ten does create a different experience, and it’s understandable that you might not find the Smart Stack feature particularly useful yet.
It’s good to hear that the system’s speed and smoothness remain impressive, making it enjoyable to use.
The interface design, with its easy-to-interact buttons and well-sized fonts, certainly adds to the overall usability.
I’m glad to hear that Siri has made a positive impression on you! It’s great that the response time has improved, especially with it being able to process many commands directly on the Apple Watch.
If you find it quicker and more reliable for your needs compared to Google Assistant, that’s definitely a win.
Giving Siri another chance on the Apple Watch Series 9 sounds like a smart move, especially if it’s been consistently recognizing your commands well.
Performance and Battery life:
The Apple Watch Series 9 indeed features the new S9 dual-core System-in-Package (SiP), which is built on the A16 Bionic processor specifically for the watch.
This upgrade, with its new Neural Engine, significantly boosts on-device processing for Siri and will support the upcoming Double Tap feature.
It’s impressive that Apple claims the Series 9 is 30% faster than the Series 8, and your experience of it feeling more responsive aligns with that.
However, it’s good to note that the Series 8 still holds its ground as a capable device, so the speed difference may not be a game-changer for everyday tasks.
Another highlight is the addition of the U2 Ultra Wideband chip, which enhances location-based controls for devices like the HomePod and improves the Precision Finding feature for locating a lost iPhone 15.
It’s convenient that this feature can be accessed via the Control Panel on your Apple Watch after prompting it to ring your lost phone.
It is user-friendly and effective for tracking down your device.
Its battery life is comparable to that of the Series 8, offering up to two full days of use under optimal conditions.
However, as you mentioned, using features like workout tracking or power-consuming apps can drain the battery more quickly.
Your observation that the battery is around 50% charged after a 30-minute GPS workout by bedtime is a useful benchmark.
Losing about 15% to 20% overnight means you might need to recharge it before the next workday starts, especially if you rely on it for sleep tracking or other intensive tasks.
Overall, the Series 9 sounds like a solid upgrade that maintains some of its predecessor’s familiar capabilities.
Specs:
| Brand | Apple |
| Display type of the product | OLED |
| Model name of the item | Apple Watch series 9 |
| ASIN | B0CHX2ZLR7 |
| Batteries | 1 Lithium ion batteries required. (included) |
| Dimensions of the product | 11.5 x 2.36 x 1.26 inches |
| Connectivity feature | 802.11b/g/n 2.4GHz and 5GHz, Bluetooth 5.3 |
| UPC | 194253922186 |
| Size | Standard |
| Compatible devices | iPhone, iOS Devices |
Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 vs Apple Watch Series 9 battery life
When comparing the battery life of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 and the Apple Watch Series 9, the Galaxy Watch 7 generally comes ahead. The Galaxy Watch 7 can last up to three days on a single charge under typical usage conditions, while the Apple Watch Series 9 offers about two days, especially when tracking workouts or using energy-intensive apps. Although both watches have their strengths, the longer battery life of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 gives it the edge in this comparison, making it the winner for users who prioritize extended usage without frequent charging.
Winner: Galaxy Watch 7
Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 vs Apple Watch Series 9 design
Regarding design, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 and the Apple Watch Series 9 each offer distinct aesthetics that cater to different preferences. The Galaxy Watch 7 features a more traditional round face, which appeals to those who prefer a classic watch look, and it comes with customizable watch faces and bands for a personalized touch. In contrast, the Apple Watch Series 9 maintains its iconic rectangular design, known for its sleek, modern appearance and intuitive interface. While both watches are stylish and functional, the Apple Watch Series 9’s design is often favored for its versatility and integration with the Apple ecosystem. Therefore, the winner in terms of design is the Apple Watch Series 9, thanks to its contemporary style and seamless user experience.
Winner: Apple Watch Series 9.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 vs Apple Watch Series 9 health and fitness tracking
In health and fitness tracking, the Samsung Galaxy 7 and the Apple Watch Series 9 offer robust features, but they cater to slightly different audiences. The Galaxy Watch 7 excels with its comprehensive suite of health metrics, including blood oxygen monitoring, stress tracking, and advanced sleep analysis, alongside an extensive range of workout modes. On the other hand, the Apple Watch Series 9 shines with its seamless integration with the Apple Health ecosystem, providing users with detailed insights into their fitness data, heart rate monitoring, and an intuitive interface for tracking workouts. While both watches are impressive, the Apple Watch Series 9 takes the lead due to its superior ecosystem integration and user-friendly health-tracking features, making it the winner.
Winner: Apple Watch Series 9.
Our Verdict
In conclusion, the Galaxy 7 and the Apple Watch Series 9 have unique strengths. The Galaxy Watch 7 excels in battery life and offers a classic design, making it an excellent choice for traditional watch enthusiasts. However, the Apple Watch Series 9 stands out with its superior health and fitness tracking capabilities, sleek modern design, and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem. Ultimately, if you’re looking for a versatile smartwatch with excellent health features, the Apple Watch Series 9 is the winner. If you prefer longer battery life and a more classic aesthetic, the Galaxy Watch 7 is an excellent option.
FAQs
What is better: the Samsung watch or the Apple Watch?
Samsung slightly surpasses Apple in terms of battery life and offers a few distinctive health tracking features, though the difference isn’t significant. Both brands feature titanium frames, dual-frequency GPS, customizable buttons, water resistance up to 100 meters, and support for multi-sport workout tracking.
Do I need a Samsung phone to use a Samsung watch?
You can utilize your Galaxy Watch Active independently from a mobile device, which makes it convenient for outdoor activities such as running, hiking, and mountain climbing. When you turn on the Galaxy Watch Active for the first time or after a reset, you can set it up without needing to connect to a mobile device.
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Luis Cooper
Hi, I'm Luis, the guy behind this site. I love wearing watches, especially ones that look great on small wrists (mine are about 6.3" around). The Watches Geek is dedicated to helping you learn about and buy watches that you will love wearing. I want this website to be the last destination for people to pick the best watches to fit their needs. You can find our unbiased reviews here on Thewatchesgeek.
Wowow a brilliant comparison! Speaking of watches, I forgot mine today. I think I would opt for a Samsung. Have been loyal to them for many years. I do prefer a rectangular face to a circular style though..