Which watch is right for you?

Many great smartwatch options are available in 2024, but picking the right device can be challenging. Samsung wants to make your life easier with the Galaxy Watch 6 series, a watch lineup that builds on the solid foundation of its predecessors. But don’t rule out other options, either. The Fitbit Versa 4 comes to mind, too, particularly if you’re on a tighter budget. Ultimately, which should you choose? Read our Galaxy Watch 6 vs Fitbit Versa 4 to help you decide.

Samsung and the Google-owned Fitbit have opted for two different approaches. While the Galaxy Watch 6 tries (and almost succeeds) at being the kitchen sink wearable, the Versa 4 is a stripped-down, simplified fitness tracker with a large display.

Importantly, the Versa 4 is not a true smartwatch. It’s an excellent basic fitness tracker, keeping tabs on Fitbit’s regular metrics like sleep, blood oxygen saturation, and heart rate. However, it cannot run third-party apps, doesn’t have Google Assistant support, and includes no music storage or control features — a step back from the Versa 3. It does have some tricks up its sleeve. One is iOS support. The Versa 4 is the only one of the two smartwatches that can pair with an iPhone (although I don’t recommend it as the Apple Watch exists). It also lasts longer on a single charge than the Samsung.

Conversely, Samsung’s smartwatch series remains stacked with features, albeit no new killer addition exists on the Galaxy Watch 6. You’ll find all the features of the Galaxy Watch 5 on the new model, including heart rate, blood oxygen, and more detailed sleep monitoring. The ECG, body composition monitor, and temperature sensor also return, and the latter gains a few new tricks. It can now be used to measure the temperature of objects. Samsung also benefits from Wear OS 4, its wide-ranging and useful app library, and Google service integration.

It’s worth mentioning that the Samsung series is not perfect, even when viewed alongside the Versa 4. Battery life was surprisingly poor during our Classic review, even with larger batteries and a new chipset. The fitness tracking accuracy could also use tweaking, with heart rate data a particular problem. Then there are the Samsung exclusive features. If you don’t pair it with a Samsung phone, you won’t have access to its blood pressure and ECG features.

Fitbit has always made good-looking watches; the Versa 4 is no exception. It’s particularly attractive in its Beet Juice colorway and Copper Rose case. Beyond the new band shades, there aren’t many aesthetic changes over the Versa 3. I welcome the return of the physical button and the watch’s slightly slimmer physique.

Unlike the Galaxy Watch line, Fitbit opts for square displays. Fitbit OS fully uses the extra room, but you might prefer a more traditional circular face on your timepiece. Overall, the Versa 4 is simple yet sleek, subdued yet sophisticated. And to some, it’s a more attractive wear than the Galaxy Watch 6.

What it isn’t is available in many guises. That’s where Samsung has a huge leg up. The Galaxy Watch 6 can be had in multiple sizes across two body options, including the returning Classic model with its rotating bezel and larger dial sizes. I love that the now narrower ring feels as tactile as before. Beyond the Classic, the standard Galaxy Watch 6’s physical upgrades are only noticeable if you pay close attention. The screen is now larger thanks to narrower edges, but also brighter, which makes for much better viewing outdoors. It’s a more mature smartwatch — an evolution of the Galaxy Watch 4 formula.

The new fastening mechanism is the most significant new addition you won’t immediately notice. Thanks to a quick-release button, straps are now much easier to remove and replace. Conversely, they’re also more likely to fall off your wrist. These straps will also work on older Galaxy Watches, which is a nice touch.

The Fitbit Versa 4 arrived in August 2022, with general availability kicking off a month later. It’s still available, albeit often below its $229 debut price. There are no variants, only different colorway combos. That said, I really like the color options Fitbit provides. Black, Waterfall Blue, Beet Juice, and Pink Sand are your band options, while the Versa 4’s body is available in graphite, platinum, and Copper Rose.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 series arrived on July 26, 2023, with sales starting on August 11. You’ll need $299 for the base 40mm model, a mild premium over its predecessor. The new Classic is among the more expensive Wear OS watches, starting at $399. It marks a $70 premium over the Galaxy Watch 4, $100 over the Galaxy Watch 6, and $170 more than the Versa 4.

Colorways include Graphite, Silver, and Gold for the standard model and Black and Silver for the Classic.

So, which device wins our Galaxy Watch 6 vs Fitbit Versa 4 duel? Well, if you want a smartwatch and have a budget of $300, the Galaxy Watch 6 is your best option — especially if you own a Samsung smartphone. We don’t believe upgrading to the Galaxy Watch 6 is worthwhile if you own a Galaxy Watch 5 or even a Galaxy Watch 4. The leap between the generations is too short to justify the additional spending. Otherwise, if you want a new Classic model, the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic will give you that tactile navigation you crave.

Should you rule out the Versa 4 completely? Well, no. Just because it’s a dumbed-down version of its predecessor doesn’t mean you should immediately disregard it. Find it at the right price, and the Fitbit Versa 4 could serve those seeking a simple, sleek, and capable fitness-first watch. However, we think the $70 premium is worth the added utility of Samsung’s new wearable.