The Best Smartwatches Under $300: Galaxy Watch FE vs. Apple Watch SE

Photo credits: GSM Arena, Apple, (Technovus Lens)

Samsung has just dropped a new contender in the budget-friendly smartwatch arena: the Galaxy Watch FE (Fan Edition). But how does it stack up against the reigning champ, the Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen)? If you’re eyeing a new wrist companion but don’t want to empty your wallet, we’ve got a showdown for you. We recently compared the Pixel Watch 2 and Galaxy Watch 6, but now we’re looking into a different matchup: the budget-friendly Galaxy Watch FE and Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen). Let’s break down their features and figure out which one deserves a spot on your wrist.

Round 1: Design & Display: A Tale of Two Shapes

Photo credits: GSM Arena, Apple, (Technovus Lens)

The Galaxy Watch FE and Apple Watch SE take different paths when it comes to looks. The FE rocks a classic round face – a familiar sight for watch lovers. It comes in a single 40mm size, perfect if you prefer a more compact feel. You can choose from black, pink gold, or silver colors and swappable bands to match your style.

Now, the Apple Watch SE? Well, it’s got that iconic square shape Apple’s known for. You’ve got a bit more flexibility here, with 40mm or 44mm sizes to choose from. And color-wise, it’s a toss-up between Midnight, Starlight, and Silver.

As for the displays, both watches have bright, clear displays that are easy to read even in sunlight. The Galaxy Watch FE uses a Super AMOLED screen, known for its vibrant colors. The Apple Watch SE has a Retina display, which is also sharp and colorful.

So, which design speaks to you? The classic round of the FE or the modern square of the SE? It’s all about personal preference, really. But hey, at least both watches will look good while tracking your steps or reminding you of that dentist appointment you’re trying to forget.

Round 2: Features & Functionality: More Than Meets the Eye

Alright, let’s take a look into the nitty-gritty of what these smartwatches can do.

Health & Fitness

Photo credit: Samsung

If you’re all about tracking your fitness goals, both watches have you covered. They’ll track your steps, calories burned, and heart rate like champs. But, they do have some key differences when it comes to water resistance.

The Galaxy Watch FE boasts an IP68 rating, meaning it’s dust-tight and can handle being submerged in up to 1.5 meters of fresh water for 30 minutes. It’s also rated for 5ATM, which means it can withstand pressures equivalent to a depth of 50 meters for 10 minutes. This makes it suitable for swimming in a pool or the ocean, but it’s not designed for diving or high-pressure water activities.

The Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen), on the other hand, doesn’t have an official IP rating for dust resistance. However, Apple states it is water-resistant up to 50 meters, so you can safely take it for a swim in the pool or ocean (just not scuba diving or waterskiing).

Photo credit: Apple

The FE also has an ECG and blood pressure monitoring (though it’s worth noting that these features might not be available in all regions), which the SE doesn’t offer (at least not without a third-party app).

The Galaxy Watch FE kicks things up a notch with over 100 different workout modes, advanced running analysis (perfect for those who like to pound the pavement), personalized heart rate zones to optimize your workouts, and even body composition analysis to track your muscle and fat mass. Plus, you’ll get those little motivational messages throughout your wellness journey to keep you on track. Now that’s what I call a personal trainer on your wrist!

The Apple Watch SE isn’t slacking either. While still a capable fitness tracker, focuses more on core activities and lacks some of the more specialized features found on the FE. It might have fewer workout modes, but it excels at tracking your swims, with features like stroke detection and pace alerts. With its built-in GPS, it accurately tracks your outdoor runs and cycles. And with its Emergency SOS feature, it could be a lifesaver in a pinch, especially during outdoor workouts.

If you’re looking for more specialized fitness trackers, check out our comprehensive guide on the best fitness trackers of 2024.

Notifications and Beyond

Photo credits: GSM Arena, (Technovus Lens)

Both watches keep you connected with notifications from your phone, so you won’t miss that important email or your friend’s latest meme obsession. They also let you control your music, set alarms, and even make payments with a flick of the wrist. You can make and take calls with either watch (if you have the cellular version, that is), and they both play nice with their respective voice assistants.

The FE has Samsung Pay for contactless payments, while the SE has Apple Pay. Both work great, but which one you choose depends on your phone (and your love for Samsung or Apple).

The App-titude Test

The FE runs on Wear OS, which means you have access to an extensive library of apps from the Google Play Store. The SE, of course, is all about the Apple App Store. Both offer plenty of options for customization and expanding your watch’s capabilities.

Software: The Brains Behind the Brawn

The Galaxy Watch FE uses Wear OS powered by Samsung, which offers a clean interface and intuitive navigation. It’s worth noting that the Galaxy Watch FE is compatible with both Android and iOS devices. The Apple Watch SE runs on watchOS, known for its user-friendly design and smooth performance. However, it’s important to remember that the Apple Watch SE is designed to work exclusively with iPhones.

Both operating systems are well-regarded, so it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and which ecosystem you’re already invested in.

So, which one wins this round? It’s a bit of a tie, to be honest. Both watches pack a punch in the features department, but the FE’s health tracking and the SE’s safety features might be the deciding factors for some folks.

Round 3: Performance & Battery Life: The Need for Speed (and Endurance)

Photo credits: Apple

Let’s be real, nobody wants a sluggish smartwatch. The Galaxy Watch FE is powered by Samsung’s Exynos W920 chip, while the Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) boasts the S8 SiP chip. In everyday use, both watches feel snappy and responsive. You won’t notice much lag when swiping through menus or launching apps. But in a head-to-head race, the Apple Watch SE might have a slight edge in terms of raw processing power.

But when it comes to battery life, things get a bit more nuanced. The Galaxy Watch FE has a 247 mAh battery, and while Samsung hasn’t provided an official battery life estimate, early reports suggest it might last around a day or two with typical usage. On the other hand, the Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) sports a slightly smaller 245 mAh battery in its 40mm model and is estimated to last about 18 hours on a single charge.

Keep in mind that battery life can vary depending on your usage. If you’re a heavy user who’s constantly streaming music, tracking workouts, and checking notifications, you might find yourself reaching for the charger a bit sooner with either watch. But for most users, both the FE and SE should provide enough juice to get through a full day.

Round 4: Value & Pricing: Bang for Your Buck

Photo credits: Apple

Now, let’s get to the bottom line: how much will these smartwatches set you back? Both the Galaxy Watch FE and Apple Watch SE are designed to be budget-friendly, but one might offer a bit more bang for your buck depending on your needs.

The Galaxy Watch FE typically comes in at a slightly lower price than the Apple Watch SE. Starting at $199.99 for the Bluetooth-only model and $249.99 for the LTE version (which lets you use the watch independently of your phone). That’s a pretty sweet deal, considering its solid features and stylish design. Plus, it offers a few extra health features like ECG and blood pressure monitoring (if available in your region), which might appeal to health-conscious shoppers. So, mark your calendars, because the Bluetooth version goes on sale in the US starting June 24th, with the LTE version expected to arrive later this year.

But don’t count out the Apple Watch SE just yet. The Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) starts at $249 for the 40mm size and goes up to $279 for the 44mm model. While it might cost a bit more upfront, it offers some advantages, like a larger display option (if you go for the 44mm size) and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem, which can be a major plus for iPhone users. And, it’s still considered a budget-friendly option compared to other Apple Watches.

So, which one offers the best value? It really depends on your priorities and budget. If you’re looking for a smartwatch with a wide range of features, a stylish design, and compatibility with both Android and iOS, the Galaxy Watch FE might be the winner. But if you’re an iPhone user who values seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem and doesn’t mind sacrificing a few features for a slightly lower price, the Apple Watch SE could be the way to go.

The Final Bell: Galaxy Watch FE vs. Apple Watch SE – Choosing Your Champion

Photo credits: GSM Arena, Apple, (Technovus Lens)

So, there you have it – the Galaxy Watch FE and Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen), two budget-friendly smartwatches battling it out for a spot on your wrist. Both watches offer a ton of value for their price, packing in a good chunk of features you’d expect from pricier models. But which one is the right fit for you?

If you’re an Android user (or even an iPhone user who doesn’t mind straying from the Apple ecosystem), the Galaxy Watch FE might be the way to go. It boasts a wider range of fitness features, a sleek and customizable design, and a slightly longer battery life. Plus, its compatibility with both Android and iOS gives you the flexibility to switch between devices without missing a beat.

But if you’re an iPhone user through and through, the Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) is a solid contender. It offers seamless integration with your iPhone, a user-friendly interface, and a slightly lower price tag. While it might not have as many bells and whistles as the FE, it still delivers the core features you need in a smartwatch.

Ultimately, the best smartwatch for you comes down to your individual needs and preferences. Consider your budget, your phone’s operating system, and the features that matter most to you. And hey, no matter which watch you choose, you’ll be getting great value for your money.

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