Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 vs. Galaxy Watch 6: What has changed?

Samsung recently introduced its new flagship smartwatch, the Galaxy Watch 7. Despite the fact that the Galaxy Watch Ultra and Galaxy Ring are still making headlines, the standard model Watch 7 remains the most affordable model.

It offers all the main Samsung features, in-depth monitoring of health metrics and convenience. The device is very user-friendly and also affordable. Currently, both models are comparable in price, but we are sure that now the Galaxy Watch 6 will receive some price reductions.

The question is, how does the new Galaxy Watch 7 differ from the previous model Galaxy Watch 6? Answer: not much.

Design

The Watch 7 and Watch 6 are almost identical. On the other hand, we have the Ultra model, around which many rumors are spreading, while the design changes of the Watch 7 model are minimal. Available in two different sizes, 40mm and 44mm, both bezel-less and suitable for most wrists. Both versions are waterproof (5ATM) and IP68 dustproof. Samsung has once again provided robust devices that are suitable for the current summer period and for enjoying by the pool, for example.

The appearance and design of the screen also remains unchanged. 480 x 480 Super AMOLED on the 44mm model and 432 x 432 on the 40mm.

Artificial intelligence and operational efficiency

The biggest upgrade is hidden "under the hood". The Watch 7 is equipped with the new 5-core Exynos W1000 processor, while the Watch 6 is powered by the 2-core Exynos W930. Samsung promises a three-fold improvement in performance, which should mean a smoother user experience and faster loading of "third-party" applications.

Greater performance is especially important for the novelty called Galaxy AI. Watch 7 brings artificially intelligent health data and contextual automatic replying to messages. However, it is worth noting that the Watch 6 model will also receive these updates.

The fact is that artificial intelligence requires a powerful processor. By packing the Watch 7 with a new one, it's certainly proof-of-concept for potential future improvements. As a potential buyer, we're betting at this point, but if we're looking at the short term and want a watch that will last for years, then the Watch 7 is probably worth the price.

The new health metric

When it comes to health features, both models are quite similar, but they have one big difference. Watch 7 introduces an “Energy Score” that analyzes sleep, heart rate and HRV data to provide a comprehensive picture of how you're feeling. This feature is also gradually rolling out to the Watch 6.

Basic health features like EKG, blood pressure monitoring, and body composition analysis are carried over from the Watch 6. As before, you'll need a Samsung smartphone to access these features.

Regardless, the Watch 7 boasts improved accuracy thanks to upgraded BioActive sensors, which Samsung claims are 30 % more accurate. In addition, the Galaxy Watch 7 introduces a new measurement: advanced glycation end products (AGE). AGE tracking tracks molecules that are formed from sugar and protein/fat reactions in the body. High levels of AGEs are associated with age-related diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular problems. With these measurements, the Watch 7 aims to offer insight into the user's overall metabolic state.

Same powerful battery, better GPS

The main sports measurement upgrade that the Watch 7 brings is multi-band GNSS, which should improve the accuracy of running tracking. Some reviews of the Watch 6 have shown problems with the GPS technology. With the arrival of the new model, the developers should eliminate this, which makes the Watch 7 the number one choice among serious runners and cyclists.

Battery life appears to be the same across both generations of devices. The 44mm Watch 7 and Watch 6 have a 425mAh battery, while the 40mm model has a 300mAh battery. Samsung hasn't officially confirmed this information, but we can still expect similar battery capacity for both watches.

Final assessment

The Galaxy Watch 7 offers some minor improvements over the Watch 6, but for most users, the older model is probably the more attractive choice. You get the same design, display and basic features, but the AI and “Energy Score” features are also coming to the Watch 6.

The new AGE metric and possible improved GPS accuracy are interesting additions, but for anyone looking for a bargain, the Galaxy Watch 6 remains a solid choice. Especially considering that it will receive most of the software updates.