## SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch Ultra vs Garmin fenix 7X Sapphire Solar: Detailed Comparison
Choosing between the SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch Ultra and the Garmin fenix 7X Sapphire Solar can be difficult. But it isn’t. Let’s take a look at a detailed comparison to help you decide what’s right for you.
Design and Build Quality
SAMSUNG’s Galaxy Watch Ultra has a titanium bezel and sapphire crystal for a premium feel. The watch looks sturdy and durable, and the customizable dial is a nice touch. The watch is a bit large, but it is comfortable to wear. One user noted that the titanium bezel and sapphire crystal give the watch a premium look. However, the nautical strap is a bit bulky, with parts sticking out and sometimes clinging to objects. The strap attachment was also more complicated than expected.
On the other hand, the Garmin fenix 7X Sapphire Solar watch is also solidly built with a titanium bezel and sapphire crystal. It feels almost indestructible, and the weight is significant but not excessive. The screen remains clear even in bright sunlight, making it ideal for outdoor use. The buttons are tactilely pleasing, and the addition of a touchscreen is a welcome upgrade. The solar charging ring around the bezel, while functional, can be visually distracting to some.
Both devices are high on performance and accuracy. The Galaxy Watch Ultra tracks heart rate and GPS surprisingly accurately, often rivaling the Polar H10 chest strap and in some cases even surpassing the Garmin Epix Pro Gen 2. One user stated that “the heart rate and GPS tracking is incredibly accurate, often matching my Polar H10 chest strap.” The pinch gesture is very useful for turning off alarms and notifications. However, the buttons are not optimized for navigation during workouts, and the quick buttons are easy to press while exercising.
The Garmin fenix 7X Sapphire Solar watch also offers highly accurate multi-band GPS tracking. The heart rate sensor is reliable during intense workouts, and the real-time endurance data is a unique feature but may not be useful to everyone. Extensive mapping capabilities with pre-loaded topo maps are a major advantage for outdoor enthusiasts. One user stated that the “GPS is incredibly accurate and turns on in seconds,” but the multi-band GPS can significantly reduce battery life, and the touchscreen can be accidentally activated underwater.
Battery Life
Battery life is an important parameter for any smartwatch. The Galaxy Watch Ultra offers about 2.5 days of battery life with daily hour-long workouts with GPS. This is better than other smartwatches, but doesn’t quite match Samsung’s claimed 60 hours of constant-on time. Another drawback for some users is the inability to charge with Samsung cell phones; the Garmin fenix 7X Sapphire Solar boasts a very long battery life, especially when using solar charging. This allows for longer run times between charges, making it ideal for long outdoor adventures. However, solar charging is not as revolutionary as one might expect and requires regular recharging. One user stated that “the battery life is excellent, the GPS is accurate, and the flashlight is a surprisingly useful feature.” The watch is durable and doesn’t accumulate dust. However, the buttons are not optimized for navigation during workouts, and the marine strap can snag on things. It also does not support reverse wireless charging from Samsung phones.
Garmin fenix 7X Sapphire Solar has a built-in flashlight with multiple modes, including SOS, for added safety and convenience. The touchscreen interface enhances map navigation, and real-time synchronization of settings via the Garmin Connect app is very convenient. However, the large 51mm size may seem bulky to some users, and some features, such as endurance tracking, may not be useful to all users.
Pros and Cons
SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch Ultra Pros:
- Very accurate heart rate and GPS tracking, comparable to Polar H10 and Garmin Epix Pro Gen 2.
- Compatible with older watch straps using mounts.
- Easy to read, easy to customize watch face.
- Pinch gesture to clear alarms and notifications.
Disadvantages of SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch Ultra:
- Buttons are not optimized for workout navigation.
- Strap clings to objects.
- Difficult to attach the strap.
- Unable to charge Samsung cell phones.
Garmin fenix 7X Sapphire Solar Pros:
- Very long battery life, especially with solar charging.
- Built-in flashlight with multiple modes including SOS.
- Multi-band GPS for high-precision tracking.
- Extensive mapping capabilities with preloaded topo maps.
- Touchscreen interface for enhanced navigation.
Disadvantages of Garmin fenix 7X Sapphire Solar:
- High price.
- Solar charging ring can be visually distracting.
- Multi-band GPS can significantly reduce battery life.
- Touchscreen can be accidentally activated underwater.
Final Thoughts
SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch Ultra and Garmin fenix 7X Sapphire Solar are great smartwatches, but they solve different problems. Galaxy Watch Ultra is durable, accurate, and easy to use. It’s a great choice for Android users who appreciate It’s a versatile smartwatch with great tracking capabilities. The Garmin fenix 7X Sapphire Solar, on the other hand, is perfect for serious athletes and outdoor enthusiasts who want detailed training data, long battery life, and extensive mapping capabilities. It’s a rugged and reliable tool for any adventure. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and preferences.