Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic Review: Bigger and Bolder Doesn’t Always Mean Better
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic has captured the attention of tech enthusiasts with its return to a physical rotating bezel and a range of impressive features.
This review delves into the design, performance, health-tracking capabilities, software, and more, providing an in-depth analysis of whether this smartwatch is worth the investment.
Design and Hardware
The design evolution of the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic is apparent, particularly in the reintroduction of the physical rotating bezel that was well-received in earlier models. The 47mm variant boasts a larger 1.5-inch display, an upgrade from the 1.4-inch screen on previous models. This Super AMOLED panel is shielded by durable Sapphire Crystal glass, with a maximum brightness of 2,000 nits for excellent visibility in direct sunlight.
The rotating bezel’s return is a significant highlight, offering a satisfying tactile experience while navigating the watch’s interface. The watch’s case maintains a familiar look, with buttons, speaker, and microphone holes on the right side. Essential sensors for heart rate, temperature, blood oxygen saturation, and more are located on the back. Notably, the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic’s weight is slightly increased due to the robust battery and stainless steel case, contributing to its IP68 water and dust resistance rating and MIL-STD-810H certification.
Performance and Battery Life
The Galaxy Watch 6 Classic is equipped with an upgraded Exynos W930 processor, 2GB of RAM, and 16GB of storage, improving both performance and efficiency compared to its predecessors. Users will appreciate the smooth operation and seamless transition between applications. Additionally, the watch maintains a reliable connection to paired devices over long distances.
Battery life, while respectable, is not groundbreaking. Samsung rates it for up to 40 hours of usage on a single charge, a benchmark that the watch frequently meets. Actual battery performance varies based on usage patterns and settings. It’s worth noting that wearing the watch overnight for sleep tracking and employing continuous monitoring did impact battery longevity, emphasizing the usefulness of having an additional charger on hand.
Health Tracking Features
Health and fitness tracking remain integral to the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic’s appeal. Samsung has consistently integrated advanced sensors into its smartwatches, aligning them with the Samsung Health app. The watch adeptly tracks metrics like heart rate, stress levels, blood oxygen, and sleep patterns. Notably, it can also provide alerts for readings outside the user’s norm, facilitating timely intervention.
New features, such as irregular heart rhythm notifications using the ECG feature, add to the watch’s health monitoring capabilities. However, users are advised to consult medical professionals for accurate interpretation of these readings. Comparisons with other devices demonstrate the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic’s accurate tracking abilities. Despite its impressive array of health metrics, limitations and regional restrictions apply to certain features like temperature tracking and blood pressure monitoring.
Software Experience
Samsung’s collaboration with Google in the realm of wearable technology has led to the integration of Wear OS 4 into the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic. While Wear OS 4 brings efficiency improvements, enhanced watch face creation, and updated app features, visual differences from its predecessor, Wear OS 3.5, are subtle. The software experience, while smooth, may feel familiar to users acquainted with previous Samsung devices.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- The return of the physical rotating bezel enhances navigation
- Respectable battery life for a full day’s use
- Cutting-edge software and advanced health sensors
Cons:
- Premium pricing may not suit budget-conscious consumers
- Limited usability of certain health-tracking features
- Minor innovation in software design compared to previous iterations
Conclusion
In the grand scheme of smartwatches, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic stands out for its recognizable design and versatile features. While it doesn’t reinvent the wheel, it brings together a blend of functionality, performance, and health tracking that many users seek. Whether the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic is the right choice depends on individual preferences and priorities. With its solid performance, refined design, and comprehensive health-tracking capabilities, it’s undoubtedly a contender in the world of smart wearables.
