The Samsung Galaxy Watch Active2 and Watch5 represent different generations of Samsung's smartwatch lineup. Both offer fitness tracking and smart features, but significant upgrades in the Watch5 make the choice more complex. Let's dive into a detailed comparison to help you decide which one is right for you.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Galaxy Watch5 is the clear winner, boasting a significantly faster processor, improved battery life, and a more modern design. While the Active2 remains a capable smartwatch, the Watch5's advancements in health tracking and overall performance justify its price premium for most users.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | N/A | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 - 44mm LTE version only | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 7, 8, 20 - 44mm LTE version only | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28 |
| Speed | No | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2019, August. Released 2019, September | 2022, August 10 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2022, August 26 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front (Gorilla Glass DX+), aluminum frame | Glass front (Sapphire crystal), aluminum frame |
| Dimensions | 44 x 44 x 10.9 mm (1.73 x 1.73 x 0.43 in) | 44.4 x 43.3 x 9.8 mm (1.75 x 1.70 x 0.39 in) |
| SIM | No | eSIM |
| Weight | 30 g (1.06 oz) | 33.5 g (44mm), 28.7 g (40mm) (1.02 oz) |
| | 50m water resistant (IP68)
Compatible with standard 20mm straps
ECG certified
Touch-sensitive bezel
MIL-STD-810G compliant*
*does not guarantee ruggedness or use in extreme conditions | MIL-STD-810H compliant*
50m water resistant (IP68)
Compatible with standard 20mm straps
ECG certified
Blood pressure monitor
Armor aluminum frame with tougher drop and scratch resistance (advertised)
*does not guarantee ruggedness or use in extreme conditions |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass DX+ | Sapphire crystal |
| Resolution | 360 x 360 pixels (~364 ppi density) | 450 x 450 pixels (~321 ppi density) |
| Size | 1.4 inches | 1.4 inches |
| Type | Super AMOLED | Super AMOLED |
| | Always-on display | Always-on display |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Dual-core 1.15 GHz Cortex-A53 | Dual-core 1.18 GHz Cortex-A55 |
| Chipset | Exynos 9110 (10 nm) | Exynos W920 (5 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-T720 | Mali-G68 |
| OS | Tizen OS 5.5 | Android Wear OS 4, One UI Watch 5 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | No |
| Internal | 4GB 768MB RAM, 4GB 1.5GB RAM | 16GB 1.5GB RAM |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | No |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.2, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | No | No |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate, barometer | Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate, barometer, thermometer (skin temperature) |
| | Natural language commands and dictation
Samsung Pay | Natural language commands and dictation
Samsung Pay |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | Wireless | 10W wireless |
| Type | Li-Ion 340 mAh, non-removable | Li-Ion 410 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Cloud Silver, Aqua Black, Pink Gold, Phantom Violet | Graphite, Silver, Pink Gold, Sapphire |
| Models | SM-R830 | SM-R915F, SM-R905F |
| Price | About 300 EUR | About 170 EUR |
Samsung Galaxy Watch Active2 Aluminum
- Sleek and lightweight design
- Good value for the price
- Excellent fitness tracking for basic needs
- Older processor
- Shorter battery life
- Less advanced health features
Samsung Galaxy Watch5
- Faster performance
- Improved battery life
- Advanced health tracking (ECG, body composition)
- More durable display
- Higher price
- Slightly bulkier design
Display Comparison
The Watch5 features a brighter and more durable display with a flatter design, offering improved readability and a more premium feel compared to the Active2's curved Super AMOLED screen. Both offer vibrant colors and sharp resolution, but the Watch5's advancements are noticeable.
Camera Comparison
Neither watch has a built-in camera. This is a consistent design choice for Samsung smartwatches.
Performance
The Exynos W920 chipset in the Watch5 provides a substantial performance boost over the Active2's Exynos 9110. Apps launch faster, animations are smoother, and overall responsiveness is significantly improved. This difference is particularly noticeable when using more demanding apps or features.
Battery Life
The Watch5 offers significantly improved battery life compared to the Active2. While the Active2 typically lasts around 1.5-2 days, the Watch5 can often reach 2-3 days with moderate usage, thanks to its larger battery and more efficient chipset.
Buying Guide
The Galaxy Watch Active2 Aluminum is a good option for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize a sleek design and basic fitness tracking. The Galaxy Watch5 is ideal for those seeking advanced health features, faster performance, and longer battery life, and are willing to invest a bit more.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Galaxy Watch5 worth the upgrade from the Active2?
Yes, if you value improved performance, longer battery life, and advanced health features like ECG and body composition analysis. The upgrade is less compelling if you're satisfied with the Active2's basic functionality and budget is a primary concern.
❓ What operating system do these watches use?
Both watches run Wear OS powered by Samsung. The Watch5 benefits from more recent Wear OS updates and optimizations.
