Samsung Galaxy Active 2 vs Galaxy Watch: Which is the Better Fitness Smartwatch?
Both the Samsung Galaxy Active 2 and Galaxy Watch offer impressive fitness tracking features, including automatic activity tracking, heart-rate monitoring, and sleep tracking. However, if you are looking to maximize your health and fitness experience, the Samsung Galaxy Active 2 emerges as the superior choice. Let's dive deeper into the differences and see why.
Key Features Comparison
Both watches come equipped with fitness tracking features, and the differences lie in the additional health and fitness features they offer. For starters, the Running Coach feature is notably improved in the Galaxy Active 2, enhancing your running experience with personalized coaching and insights.
Design and Durability
The Samsung Galaxy Watch is designed for daily usage and normal wear, making it a versatile and everyday companion. It comes in various sizes, including the highly coveted 46mm model, which offers up to 3-4 days of battery life with the always-on display (AON) feature enabled. However, it is important to note that in the Indian market, the 42mm model is available in aluminum, starting at 26,990 INR, making it a more budget-friendly option.
In contrast, the Samsung Galaxy Active 2 is engineered to withstand rigorous exercises. As its name suggests, it is built for active users, offering longer battery life of about one day with AON display. It also comes with a more rugged design, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sports.
Health Tracking Features
The Galaxy Active 2 boasts several advanced health tracking options. With 8 photo diodes for heart rate monitoring, an ECG feature in hardware, and newer software updates, it offers comprehensive health monitoring capabilities. These features make it an excellent tool for those who prioritize cardiovascular health and want to track their overall health more accurately.
On the other hand, the Galaxy Watch uses an older 4 photo diode setup, which may not provide the same level of precision in heart rate monitoring. Additionally, the Active 2's improved ECG feature can provide more reliable heart data, making it a better choice for those concerned about their cardiac health.
Software and Updates
The Samsung Galaxy Active 2 runs on the latest Tizen OS and One UI 1.5, ensuring you have access to the latest features and enhancements. In India, the 46mm Galaxy Watch comes with One UI 1.0, which is currently being used, and there are concerns that Samsung may not keep updating this older model, especially with new One UI releases. This could mean that the Galaxy Watch may not receive the latest updates, leaving it lagging behind its newer counterparts.
Customization and Ease of Use
The Galaxy Active 2 offers more advanced watch face customization options, including the ability to take photos and match them with your outfit. This adds a personalized touch and enhances the user experience.
Price and Availability
In terms of pricing, both watches are similarly priced in most markets. In India, the 46mm Galaxy Watch LTE can be purchased for 30,990 INR, while the stainless steel version of the Active 2 starts at the same price. The 44mm stainless steel Active 2 is also available. Additionally, the aluminum version of the 42mm Galaxy Watch is priced at 26,990 INR, offering a more budget-friendly option.
Conclusion
While both the Samsung Galaxy Active 2 and Galaxy Watch offer impressive fitness tracking features, the Active 2 excels in health tracking, battery life, and software updates. For those who prioritize comprehensive health monitoring, longer battery life, and the latest software features, the Samsung Galaxy Active 2 is the better choice. However, if you prefer a more versatile and everyday wear option, the Galaxy Watch may be the way to go.
If you are a budget-conscious buyer and the 42mm Active 2 suits your needs, then it is a solid investment. However, for those willing to splurge, the Galaxy Active 2 is the star performer in this comparison.