Should you buy a Samsung Galaxy Watch in 2022?

Samsung Galaxy watch
(Image credit: Android Central)

Best answer: No. There are better options available by now, including two successors that offer premium designs and more features. However, if you don't mind having an older wearable, you might be happy with the original Samsung Galaxy Watch. You can also get the more updated Galaxy Watch Active 2 for a similar price.

Should you buy a Samsung Galaxy Watch in 2022?

When deciding whether you should buy the Samsung Galaxy Watch in 2022, be sure to think about what features are essential to your purpose. If you're a fan of a more traditional aesthetic, then it makes sense that you're interested in the classic look of the Galaxy Watch.

Although, if you're more interested in the perks under the hood, you might want to think twice about buying it. Don't forget that the Galaxy Watch 4 is available now as well. It's a newer and more refined version of the original. It also packs in plenty of health/fitness perks that the original Galaxy Watch doesn't.

If you're interested in a health/fitness smartwatch, you might want to buy the Galaxy Watch Active 2.

Speaking of which, if you're interested in a health/fitness smartwatch, you might want to buy the Galaxy Watch Active 2 instead. It's not crazy expensive, either. It comes in a sleeker, more lightweight package. It also boasts an electrocardiogram (ECG) feature for detecting an irregular heartbeat, an advanced accelerometer, a more accurate LED-based heart rate monitor, and improved GPS accuracy.

On the topic of perks, there are many of them to go around on the original Galaxy Watch. You can add LTE connectivity to your device, which allows you to stream music without your phone and take calls on your wrist. You'll also have health/fitness tracking, built-in GPS, sleep monitoring, heart-rate tracking, Samsung Pay, and 5 ATM water resistance. The Galaxy Watch is available in two case sizes: 42mm and 46mm. The large model might be too bulky for some wrists, but it will provide a slightly longer battery life at around four days.

Does newer mean better?

Galaxy Watch 3 45mm Black

Source: Andrew Martonik / Android Central (Image credit: Andrew Martonik / Android Central)

The Samsung Galaxy Watch might be a timeless buy for budget shoppers and those who don't need the latest features. With that said, those who enjoy having the newest tech will be better off with the newer Galaxy Watch 4.

The Galaxy Watch 3 offers a slimmer and more polished design.

If you have the extra money to spend, it's a worthwhile purchase. The Galaxy Watch 4 offers a slimmer and more polished design. It comes in a 41mm or 45mm case. It offers SpO2 monitoring and VO2 max readings. A SpO2 reading monitors your blood oxygen saturation levels while VO2 max tells you how much oxygen your body consumes during an exercise.

You also get an electrocardiogram (ECG) sensor as well as blood pressure monitoring. If you're not familiar, the ECG sensor can detect an irregular heartbeat that may indicate a more serious medical condition. Users will also enjoy built-in run coaching and recovery tools and have access to over 120 home workout videos on the Samsung Health app.

If you're going to be bummed about spending money on an older device when a new one is available, you may want to think twice about buying the Samsung Galaxy Watch in 2022.

Courtney Lynch

Courtney Lynch is a freelance writer at Android Central. She's obsessed with all things health, fitness, and music. At any given time, she can be found checking out the latest and greatest gadgets while simultaneously petting her dog and sipping iced coffee.