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Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 vs Fitbit Versa 4: Which watch is right for you?

Does the comprehensive smartwatch or pared-down fitness tracker win this duel?
By

Published onAugust 14, 2024

Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
MSRP: $299.99
Check price
Positives
Bigger, brighter AMOLED display
Snappy Wear OS 4 software experience
Sporty yet tasteful aesthetic
User-friendly quick-release strap
$100 less than Watch 6 Classic
Negatives
Mostly minor improvements over Watch 5
Unreliable touch bezel
Inconsistent GPS and heart rate data
Some features only available to Samsung phone users
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
MSRP: $399.99
Check price
Positives
The rotating bezel is back
Elegant design and build materials
Ships with Wear OS 4
Bright, vibrant AMOLED display
Robust, snappy software experience
Negatives
Only minor upgrades over Watch 5
Imperfect heart rate data
Disappointing battery life
Some features only work with Samsung phones
Fitbit Versa 4
Check price
Positives
Redesigned display
20 new exercise modes
Supports Google Maps and Google Wallet
Negatives
No third-party app support
No music storage or controls
No Google Assistant support
Unreliable GPS and heart rate sensor

Many great smartwatch options are available in 2024, but picking the right device can be challenging. Samsung wants to make your life easier with the Galaxy Watch 6 series, a watch lineup that builds on the solid foundation of its predecessors. But don’t rule out other options, either. The Fitbit Versa 4 comes to mind, too, particularly if you’re on a tighter budget. Ultimately, which should you choose? Read our Galaxy Watch 6 vs Fitbit Versa 4 to help you decide.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 vs Fitbit Versa 4: At a glance

Here's a quick summary of the big differences between the Galaxy Watch 6 and the Fitbit Versa 4:

  • The Galaxy Watch 6 runs Wear OS, while the Versa 4 uses Fitbit OS.
  • The Versa 4 features Fitbit's customary square design, while the Galaxy Watch 6 series uses a circular face.
  • Samsung offers two Galaxy Watch 6 body types in two sizes, but the Versa 4 is only available in one guise.
  • The Versa 4 does not have third-party app support, unlike the Galaxy Watch 6.
  • While the Galaxy Watch 6 cannot be paired with an iPhone, the Versa 4 can.
  • The Versa 4 has much better battery life than the Galaxy Watch 6.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 vs Fitbit Versa 4 specs

Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 ClassicSamsung Galaxy Watch 6Fitbit Versa 4
Display
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
47mm: 1.5-inch
Super AMOLED
480 x 480 resolution
Full color Always On Display
Sapphire Crystal

43mm: 1.3-inch
Super AMOLED
432 x 432 resolution
Full color Always On Display
Sapphire Crystal
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
44mm: 1.5-inch
Super AMOLED
480 x 480 resolution
Full color Always On Display
Sapphire Crystal

40mm: 1.3-inch
Super AMOLED
432 x 432 resolution
Full color Always On Display
Sapphire Crystal
Fitbit Versa 4
1.58-inch
AMOLED
336 x 336
Always On Display
Corning Gorilla Glass 3

Dimensions and weight
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
47mm: 46.5 x 46.5 x 10.9mm, 59.0g

43mm: 42.5 x 42.5 x 10.9mm, 52.0g
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
44mm: 42.8 x 44.4 x 9.0mm
33.3g

40mm: 38.8 x 40.4 x 9.0mm
28.7g
Fitbit Versa 4
38.1 x 38.1 x 11.43mm
37.6g
Colors and materials
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
Stainless Steel case with Hybrid Eco-Leather Band

47mm: Black, Silver
43mm: Black, Silver
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
Armor Aluminum case with Sport Band

44mm: Graphite, Silver
40mm: Graphite, Gold
Fitbit Versa 4
Aluminum case with elastomer band
Battery
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
47mm: 425mAh
43mm: 300mAh

WPC-based wireless charging
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
44mm: 425mAh
40mm: 300mAh

WPC-based wireless charging
Fitbit Versa 4
Smartwatch mode: 6+ days
Storage
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
16GB
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
16GB
Fitbit Versa 4
4GB

7 days of motion data, daily totals for past 30 days

HR data at 1-second intervals during exercise, 5-second intervals all other times
Connectivity
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
LTE
Bluetooth 5.3
Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n
2.4+5GHz
NFC
GPS/GLONASS/Beidou/Galileo
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
LTE
Bluetooth 5.3
Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n
2.4+5GHz
NFC
GPS/GLONASS/Beidou/Galileo
Fitbit Versa 4





Bluetooth 5.0
Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n (deactivated)
2.4GHz
NFC
GPS/GLONASS
Sensors
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
Accelerometer
Barometer
Gyroscope
Geomagnetic sensor
Light sensor
Temperature sensor
3D Hall sensor
Samsung BioActive sensor: optical heart rate (PPG), electric heart signal, bioelectrical impedance analysis sensor (BIA)
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
Accelerometer
Barometer
Gyroscope
Geomagnetic sensor
Light sensor
Temperature sensor
Samsung BioActive sensor: optical heart rate (PPG), electric heart signal, bioelectrical impedance analysis sensor (BIA)
Fitbit Versa 4
3-axis accelerometer
Gyroscope
Altimeter
Ambient light sensor
Red and infrared sensors for oxygen saturation (SpO2) monitoring
Optical heart rate sensor
Durability
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
5ATM + IP68
MIL-STD-810H
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
5ATM + IP68
MIL-STD-810H
Fitbit Versa 4
Water resistant to 50m
Software
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
Wear OS powered by
Samsung (Wear OS 4)
One UI 5 Watch
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
Wear OS powered by
Samsung (Wear OS 4)
One UI 5 Watch
Fitbit Versa 4
Fitbit OS
Compatibility
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
Android 10 or higher with more than 1.5GB of RAM
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
Android 10 or higher with more than 1.5GB of RAM
Fitbit Versa 4
Android OS 10 or higher
iOS 13.3 or higher

Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 vs Fitbit Versa 4: Features

Samsung and Google-owned Fitbit have opted for two different approaches. While the Galaxy Watch 6 tries (and almost succeeds) at being the kitchen sink wearable, the Versa 4 is a stripped-down, simplified fitness tracker with a large display.

Importantly, the Versa 4 is not a true smartwatch. It’s an excellent basic fitness tracker, keeping tabs on Fitbit’s regular metrics like sleep, blood oxygen saturation, and heart rate. However, it cannot run third-party apps, doesn’t have Google Assistant support, and includes no music storage or control features — a step back from the Versa 3. It does have some tricks up its sleeve; one is iOS support. The Versa 4 is the only one of the two smartwatches that can pair with an iPhone (although I don’t recommend it as the Apple Watch exists). It also lasts longer on a single charge than the Samsung.

Conversely, Samsung’s smartwatch series remains stacked with features, albeit no new killer addition exists on the Galaxy Watch 6. You’ll find all the features of the Galaxy Watch 5 on the newer model, including heart rate, blood oxygen, and more detailed sleep monitoring. The ECG, body composition monitor, and temperature sensor also return, and the latter gains a few new tricks. It can now be used to measure the temperature of objects. Samsung also reaps the benefits of Wear OS, from its wide-ranging and useful app library to its Google service integration.

It’s worth mentioning that the Samsung series is not perfect, even when viewed alongside the Versa 4. Battery life was surprisingly poor during our Classic review, even with larger batteries and a new chipset. The fitness tracking accuracy could also use tweaking, with heart rate data a particular problem. Then there are the Samsung exclusive features. If you don’t pair it with a Samsung phone, you won’t have access to its blood pressure and ECG features.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 vs Fitbit Versa 4: Design

A Fitbit Versa 4 displays a user's sleep score and step count.
Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority

Fitbit has always made good-looking watches; the Versa 4 is no exception. It’s particularly attractive in its Beet Juice colorway and Copper Rose case. Beyond the new band shades, there aren’t many aesthetic changes over the Versa 3. I welcome the return of the physical button and the watch’s slightly slimmer physique.

Unlike the Galaxy Watch line, Fitbit opts for square displays. Fitbit OS fully uses the extra room, but you might prefer a more traditional circular face on your timepiece. Overall, the Versa 4 is simple yet sleek, subdued yet sophisticated. And to some, it’s a more attractive wear than the Galaxy Watch 6.

A Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic displays the Stretched Time watch face.
Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority

What it isn’t is available in many guises. That’s where Samsung has a huge leg up. The Galaxy Watch 6 can be had in multiple sizes across two body options, including the returning Classic model with its rotating bezel and larger dial sizes. I love that the narrower ring feels as tactile as before. Beyond the Classic, the standard Galaxy Watch 6’s physical upgrades are only noticeable if you pay close attention. The screen is now larger thanks to narrower edges, but also brighter, which makes for much better viewing outdoors. It’s a more mature smartwatch — an evolution of the Galaxy Watch 4 formula.

The new fastening mechanism is the most significant new addition you won’t immediately notice. Thanks to a quick-release button, straps are now much easier to remove and replace. Conversely, they’re also more likely to fall off your wrist. These straps will also work on older Galaxy Watches, which is a nice touch.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 vs Fitbit Versa 4: Price and colors

  • Samsung Galaxy Watch 6: Launched at $299
  • Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic: Starts at $399
  • Fitbit Versa 4: Launched at $229

The Fitbit Versa 4 arrived in August 2022, with general availability kicking off a month later. It’s still available, often below its $229 debut price. There are no variants, only different colorway combos. That said, I really like the color options Fitbit provides. Black, Waterfall Blue, Beet Juice, and Pink Sand are your band options, while the Versa 4’s body is available in graphite, platinum, and Copper Rose.

Fitbit Versa 4
Fitbit Versa 4
Fitbit Versa 4
Comfortable, refined design • Fantastic battery life • Robust sleep and stress tracking
Fitbit's smartwatches feature fantastic battery life and a variety of useful health and fitness tool
An overhauled design and the return of a physical button make the Versa 4 a user-friendly device that's comfortable, light, and attractive. It delivers many of Fitbit's most powerful tools including detailed sleep tracking and an excellent companion app. Most importantly, the Versa 4 offers a more affordable option to those who don't need the added health sensors found on the pricier Sense lineup.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 series arrived on July 26, 2023, with sales starting on August 11. You initially needed $299 for the base 40mm model, but Samsung no longer sells this device. This means you can find it for less use or at third-party retailers, making it a much better deal.

Notably, as the Galaxy Watch 7 line doesn’t include a rotating bezel, Samsung is committed to continue selling the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic model. It starts at $399 but can be found reduced fairly regularly in 2024.

Colorways include Graphite, Silver, and Gold for the standard model and Black and Silver for the Classic.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
AA Recommended
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
Bigger, brighter AMOLED display • Snappy Wear OS 4 software experience • Sporty yet tasteful aesthetic
MSRP: $299.99
Bigger and better.
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 brings the best of Wear OS 4 and Samsung's smartwatch features to the table. A large display and full Samsung Wallet app make the Watch 6 a powerful standalone device, while integration with Samsung phones makes the Watch 6 a valuable part of your Galaxy ecosystem.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
AA Recommended
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
The rotating bezel is back • Elegant design and build materials • Ships with Wear OS 4
MSRP: $399.99
The rotating crown is back
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic rocks a rotating bezel! Better equipped than the base Galaxy Watch 6, the Classic model is a powerful watch with updated activity tracking, improved health features, and the full Samsung Wallet app for your mobile payments.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 vs Fitbit Versa 4: Should you upgrade?

So, which device wins our Galaxy Watch 6 vs Fitbit Versa 4 duel? Well, if you want a smartwatch and have a budget of $300, the Galaxy Watch 6 is your best option between the two, especially if you own a Samsung smartphone. However, now that the Galaxy Watch 7 is available, we don’t believe grabbing the Galaxy Watch 6 at its original list price is a good deal. Find it used or heavily reduced, and it’s a different story.

That said, if you have your heart set on a rotating bezel, the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic is your only new option and will give you that tactile navigation you crave.

Should you rule out the Versa 4 completely? Well, no. Just because it’s a dumbed-down version of its predecessor doesn’t mean you should immediately disregard it. Find it at the right price, and the Fitbit Versa 4 could serve those seeking a simple, sleek, and capable fitness-first watch.

As mentioned, the Versa 4 isn’t really a “smart” watch, though. If you have your heart set on a Fitbit and are willing to spend a little more, consider the Pixel Watch 3 ($349.99 at Amazon) instead.

Which is the better buy: Galaxy Watch 6 or Fitbit Versa 4?

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FAQs

Yes, the Galaxy Watch 6 and the Fitbit Versa 4 are both water resistant.

Yes, you can accept and take calls on both the Galaxy Watch 6 and Fitbit Versa 4 using their built-in microphones and speakers.

Only the Fitbit Versa 4 is compatible with iPhones. The Galaxy Watch 6 cannot pair with iOS devices.

The Fitbit Versa 4 has no music streaming or storage feature. However, you can stream music, store and play music, and control music on your smartphone from the Galaxy Watch 6.

Yes, you can shower with the Galaxy Watch 6 and Fitbit Versa 4. However, we recommend leaving the watches on their charging cradles while in the shower instead.

Yes, you can use the Fitbit Versa 4 with a Samsung smartphone.

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