In the world of wearable technology, two smartwatches have been going head to head: Fitbit Sense 2 and the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5.
Having thoroughly tested both devices, I’ve noticed that they are each designed with distinct priorities in mind.
The Fitbit Sense 2 leans more towards those with a keen interest in health and wellness features, while the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 is positioned as a versatile device catering to broader smartwatch functionalities along with fitness tracking.
From a design perspective, both smartwatches offer a premium build quality but differ in aesthetics and comfort.
The Fitbit Sense 2 maintains a sleek profile with its updated design, suitable for all-day wear. Meanwhile, the Galaxy Watch 5 sports a more traditional watch look with a circular dial that appeals to those who prefer classic watch designs.
The displays on both are clear and responsive, but the Galaxy Watch 5’s AMOLED screen stands out with vibrant colors and deep blacks, providing an excellent viewing experience even in bright outdoor conditions.
Key Takeaways
- Both Fitbit Sense 2 and Galaxy Watch 5 cater to different user preferences in health tracking and smartwatch features.
- I found meaningful differences in their design, with Fitbit Sense 2 focusing on comfort and Samsung on traditional aesthetics.
- Display quality and user interface profoundly impact the daily user experience, with the Galaxy Watch 5 excelling in its vibrant AMOLED screen.
Overview of Fitbit Sense 2 and Galaxy Watch 5
In my experience with the Fitbit Sense 2 and Galaxy Watch 5, both smartwatches offer robust health and fitness features, yet cater to slightly different user preferences with their unique functionalities and design aesthetics.
Key Features
Fitbit Sense 2:
- Display: 1.58″ AMOLED, 336 x 336 pixels
- Health tracking: Stress management, heart rate monitoring
- Battery life: Up to 6 days
Galaxy Watch 5:
- Display: 1.4″ Super AMOLED, 450 x 450 pixels
- Health tracking: Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis, blood pressure monitoring (region-dependent)
- Extra durability: Sapphire crystal display
Primary Target Audience
The Fitbit Sense 2 appeals to users who prioritize comprehensive health tracking, notably stress management, and impressive battery life in their smartwatch experience.
The Galaxy Watch 5, on the other hand, is tailored for those who value a bright and crisp display, advanced features like body composition analysis, and extra durability for active lifestyles with its sapphire crystal screen.
Design and Build Quality
When evaluating the Fitbit Sense 2 and the Galaxy Watch 5, it’s clear that both have made no compromises on design and build quality. Each watch showcases a blend of durability and modern aesthetics, which are expected from today’s leading smartwatches.
Materials and Durability
Fitbit Sense 2: I found the build consists of an aluminum case and sapphire crystal glass, which gives it a lightweight yet durable feel. These materials contribute to the device’s resistance to scratches and impact.
Galaxy Watch 5: My experience with the Watch 5 revealed a similarly robust build. It’s outfitted with an Armor Aluminum case coupled with Gorilla Glass DX. This composition confers toughness and durability within the context of everyday usage.
Size and Weight
In terms of dimensions and weight, the Fitbit Sense 2 measures modestly, ensuring comfort over long periods of wear. The Galaxy Watch 5 is slightly heavier, a testament to its substantial build. However, in my testing, this weight did not translate to discomfort.
| Fitbit Sense 2 | Galaxy Watch 5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | Compact | Slightly larger |
| Weight | Lighter | Heavier, yet comfortable |
Colors and Aesthetics
Fitbit Sense 2: I’ve observed it comes in a variety of colors, including Soft Gold and Graphite. These colors complement its overall design, which I consider to be sleek and minimalistic.
Galaxy Watch 5: It is available in elegant shades such as Pink Gold and Platinum. The aesthetics are modern, with a look that feels both sporty and sophisticated, suitable for a wide range of personal styles.
Display Features
In my hands-on experience with both the Fitbit Sense 2 and the Galaxy Watch 5, the display characteristics play a pivotal role in daily use. Let’s dive into their screen size and resolution, followed by the display type and quality to understand where each device stands.
Screen Size and Resolution
Fitbit Sense 2:
- Screen Size: 1.58 inches
- Resolution: 336 x 336 pixels
Galaxy Watch 5:
- Screen Size: Available in two sizes, 40mm and 44mm, translating into slightly different screen real estate.
- 40mm Resolution: Typically around 396 x 396 pixels
- 44mm Resolution: Higher than the 40mm variant, offering crisp and clear visuals.
Both devices offer an always-on display option, ensuring that key information is visible without needing to wake the screen fully.
Display Type and Quality
Fitbit Sense 2:
- Display Type: AMOLED, vibrant with deep blacks and bright colors that make the interface stand out, especially in bright light.
Galaxy Watch 5:
- Display Type: Also utilizes an AMOLED panel; the colors are equally vibrant, and the blacks are just as deep, thanks to the utilization of similar technology.
My experience with both watches confirms that the AMOLED technology in these displays ensures a high-quality viewing experience. Whether it’s under direct sunlight or in a dimly-lit environment, the screens remain readable with excellent contrast and color reproduction.
Health and Fitness Tracking
In my extensive testing of both the Fitbit Sense 2 and the Galaxy Watch 5, a clear picture of their capabilities in health and fitness tracking emerged. Each device is equipped with a range of sensors and features tailored towards providing a comprehensive view of the user’s health and fitness.
Sensors and Accuracy
Both smartwatches house advanced sensors that deliver precise health data. Heart rate tracking is consistent across both devices, providing real-time monitoring which I found highly accurate during workouts and rest. The accelerometer and gyroscope work seamlessly to track movement and orientation, offering valuable data for a variety of fitness activities.
- The Fitbit Sense 2 features a skin temperature sensor, which adds another dimension to health tracking by monitoring changes in your skin temperature overnight.
- Both devices incorporate an altimeter to measure elevation, beneficial for stair-climbing and hiking monitoring.
- The SpO2 sensor is present on both watches, monitoring blood oxygen levels crucial for assessing overall health and is especially useful during sleep tracking.
- I found that the Galaxy Watch 5 offers a bioelectrical impedance analysis sensor for measuring body composition. However, it’s important to note that its blood pressure feature is not available in the United States.
Specialized Health Features
Health features specific to each model set them apart in terms of health management.
- Fitbit Sense 2’s standout feature in my testing was its all-day stress tracking. This is facilitated by an on-device sensor coupled with Fitbit’s algorithm to gauge stress levels, which can be quite revealing for stress management and overall well-being.
- In terms of managing health, the Galaxy Watch 5 steps up with its Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis sensor. I found the body composition measurements to offer intriguing insights, although these are estimates and should be used as general guidance rather than medical data.
When evaluating the two devices, both excel in sleep tracking, with detailed reports and insights into sleep stages and quality. Fitness tracking is robust on both the Fitbit Sense 2 and Galaxy Watch 5, recording a variety of workout types with reliable metrics, though I noted a slight edge in the diversity of exercises recognized by the Galaxy Watch 5. Heart rate tracking during varied-intensity workouts showed both devices to be dependable, with minor discrepancies reflective of all wrist-based trackers.
Battery and Charging
In my extensive testing of both the Fitbit Sense 2 and Galaxy Watch 5, I’ve carefully examined their battery life and charging capabilities to provide a clear comparison for potential users.
Battery Life Expectancy
I found that the Fitbit Sense 2’s battery boasts an impressive life expectancy, routinely lasting up to six days on a single charge. This longevity stands out, especially during heavy usage that involves continuous heart rate and sleep tracking. In contrast, my experience with the Galaxy Watch 5 shows it typically requires charging after about two days of use, even with moderate to heavy interaction.
- Fitbit Sense 2: Up to 6 days
- Galaxy Watch 5: About 2 days
Charging Methods and Speed
When it comes to charging, both smartwatches support fast charging, which is a boon for users like me who prefer minimal downtime. I’ve observed that a 12-minute charge of the Fitbit Sense 2 is enough to power a full day’s worth of battery. Meanwhile, the Galaxy Watch 5 can achieve a 45% charge in just 30 minutes due to its fast charging capability.
- Fitbit Sense 2: 12 min for 1 day’s charge
- Galaxy Watch 5: 30 min for 45% charge
In summary, the Fitbit Sense 2 leads with battery longevity, while the Galaxy Watch 5 offers quicker power-ups to keep pace with my daily needs.
Hardware Specifications
When comparing the Fitbit Sense 2 and the Galaxy Watch 5, it’s evident that both devices are designed with powerful internal hardware to ensure smooth operation. Let’s look specifically at how their processors, performance, RAM, and storage options measure up.
Processor and Performance
I found that the Galaxy Watch 5 is equipped with the Exynos W920 chipset, which is custom-designed by Samsung for wearables. This processor is efficient and provides a responsive user experience. On the other hand, the Fitbit Sense 2 uses a proprietary processor. While specifics about the processor aren’t as widely publicized as Samsung’s Exynos W920, in my tests, the Sense 2 performed reliably for daily tasks and fitness tracking.
Both watches come with an integrated GPS for accurate location tracking, and they also include gyro sensors that contribute to their ability to track movement precisely.
RAM and Storage
In my experience and based on available specifications, the Galaxy Watch 5 typically includes 1.5GB of RAM, which contributes to its multitasking abilities. For storage, it offers a substantial 16GB, handy for storing music and apps directly on the device.
Fitbit has not disclosed the RAM of the Sense 2, but during my testing, it handled task switching and real-time health tracking without hitches. Storage on the device is sufficient for installing various apps and storing your fitness data, though it doesn’t support onboard music storage like the Galaxy Watch 5.
These core hardware specifications underpin the performance of both smartwatches, shaping them into competent companions for day-to-day activities and comprehensive health tracking.
Connectivity Options
In my experience with both the Fitbit Sense 2 and the Galaxy Watch 5, connectivity plays a crucial role in the seamless integration of each device into daily life. Let’s dive into the specifics of what each smartwatch offers.
Network and Communication Protocols
Both smartwatches, the Fitbit Sense 2 and the Galaxy Watch 5, offer a solid range of connectivity features. The Fitbit Sense 2 supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, which I found reliable for everyday tasks. However, it lacks LTE capability, which means it cannot independently connect to cellular networks; your smartphone must be nearby to maintain full functionality. On the other hand, The Galaxy Watch 5 comes in both Bluetooth-only and LTE models. The LTE version can connect to cellular networks on its own, allowing me to receive messages and make calls without a smartphone.
- Fitbit Sense 2: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
- Galaxy Watch 5: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, LTE (optional)
Compatibility with Devices
Regarding device compatibility, the Fitbit Sense 2 is compatible with both iOS and Android devices, although some features are more limited on iOS. For example, I noticed that replying to messages is exclusive to Android phones. The Galaxy Watch 5 also works with both Android and iOS; however, it integrates more deeply with Samsung devices and other Android phones than with Apple devices. I could easily access Google Assistant and Bixby—Samsung’s voice assistant—on the Galaxy Watch 5, but the integration with Siri on iOS was limited.
- Fitbit Sense 2: Compatible with Android and iOS (limited on iOS)
- Galaxy Watch 5: Compatible with Android and iOS (better integration with Android, including Google Assistant and Bixby)
Contactless Payments
I appreciate the convenience of contactless payments, and both watches provide this option. The Fitbit Sense 2 uses Fitbit Pay, which I found to be straightforward to set up and use at NFC-enabled terminals. With the Galaxy Watch 5, I could use Samsung Pay, Google Pay, and more recently, Google Wallet, which allows the device to serve not just as a fitness tracker or a notification hub, but also as a virtual wallet. Notably, the availability of these payment methods may vary depending on the region.
- Fitbit Sense 2: Fitbit Pay
- Galaxy Watch 5: Samsung Pay, Google Pay, Google Wallet (NFC-enabled)
Operating System and Software
In my experience with both Fitbit Sense 2 and Galaxy Watch 5, the operating system is a key differentiator that affects not just the user interface but also fitness tracking, notifications, and how the watch interacts with other apps and services.
Native Operating System
Fitbit Sense 2: It runs on Fitbit OS, which I found to be very fitness and health-centric. I noticed it’s quite streamlined for a specific set of features focused on wellness, with less emphasis on broader smartwatch functions.
Galaxy Watch 5: This smartwatch operates on Wear OS, powered by Samsung and Google. My time with Wear OS showed that it offers a richer smartwatch experience, with more capabilities that extend beyond health and fitness, particularly due to its partnership with Google, contributing to a more integrated service experience with apps like Google Maps.
App Ecosystem and Integration
Fitbit Sense 2:
- App Ecosystem: The available apps are curated in the Fitbit app gallery. The selection is focused but I found it somewhat limited compared to the Galaxy Watch 5.
- Integration: Fitbit’s integration is tight, especially within Fitbit’s own ecosystem. However, it lacks the expansiveness of the Play Store.
Galaxy Watch 5:
- App Ecosystem: With access to the Play Store, there’s a wider range of apps available, which I discovered includes popular options like music streaming services, messaging apps, and more.
- Integration: The integration of Google services is seamless, especially with Google Maps, which proved to be a practical feature for navigation assistance on my wrist.
Durability and Resistance
In my experience testing smartwatches, attention to durability specifics such as water and dust resistance, alongside the quality of materials, is crucial. Both the Fitbit Sense 2 and the Galaxy Watch 5 excel in these areas, but let’s explore the specifics to understand their resilience to daily wear and tear.
Water and Dust Resistance
The Fitbit Sense 2 boasts a solid 5ATM rating, indicating it can withstand pressures equivalent to a depth of 50 meters. Furthermore, it carries an IP68 rating, ensuring thorough dust resistance alongside its water-resistant capabilities. My usage confirms that it stands up well to immersion and dusty environments.
On the other hand, the Galaxy Watch 5 matches the Sense 2’s performance with a 5ATM rating as well. It too can be submerged to 50 meters for a limited time. In addition, the Galaxy Watch 5 also shares the IP68 rating, so there’s no compromise when it comes to being dust and water-resistant.
Material Quality
Analyzing the material quality of the Fitbit Sense 2 and the Galaxy Watch 5, I noticed that both devices feature robust build quality. The Sense 2 uses aerospace-grade aluminum for its case, which contributes to a lightweight feel without sacrificing strength.
Comparatively, the Galaxy Watch 5 utilizes a similarly high-grade aluminum finish, providing a sense of durability that I have found to be resilient against everyday bumps and scrapes. Both devices use advanced materials to protect against damage while maintaining a sleek and modern aesthetic.
Additional Smart Features
In exploring the Fitbit Sense 2 and the Galaxy Watch 5, I’ve had the opportunity to delve into the range of additional smart features that each device offers. These functional nuances contribute significantly to the user experience.
Voice Assistants and Navigation
Having used both smartwatches, I appreciate the voice assistant capabilities onboard. The Fitbit Sense 2 integrates with Amazon Alexa, allowing me to set reminders and control smart home devices directly from my wrist. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 5, on the other hand, is equipped with Bixby for voice commands, which is particularly useful when I need hands-free assistance or navigational prompts.
Notifications and Smart Alerts
Both devices provide a comprehensive suite of notifications and smart alerts. I receive text, call, and app notifications smoothly from both watches. However, I find that the Galaxy Watch 5 offers a slightly more seamless experience when it comes to interacting with notifications, thanks partly to the rotating bezel which makes navigation through alerts quite intuitive.
Customization Options
- Fitbit Sense 2:
- Straps: Variety of strap materials available, easy to switch out with a simple button mechanism.
- Watch Faces: Ample custom watch faces to suit my mood or outfit.
- Samsung Galaxy Watch 5:
- Bands: A range of band options, both in material and color, complementing different styles.
- Buttons: The physical buttons add a tactile dimension to navigating the various features.
The ability to customize the look and feel of my smartwatch is important to me, and both the Fitbit Sense 2 and Galaxy Watch 5 cater to this need with their respective customization options. The Galaxy Watch’s bands are notably easier to swap thanks to their quick release feature and the robust selection of watch faces ensures I can personalize my watch display for any occasion.
Price and Value for Money
In my experience with the Fitbit Sense 2 and the Galaxy Watch 5, the cost difference is notable, as is the consideration for long-term value that each device offers.
Cost Comparison
Fitbit Sense 2
- Starting Price: $299.95
Galaxy Watch 5 (40mm Bluetooth version)
- Starting Price: $249.99
Long-Term Value
When considering the Fitbit Sense 2, there’s an additional cost for advanced health tracking features post the initial six months amounting to $80/year. On the other hand, the Galaxy Watch 5 does not charge extra fees for accessing full features, providing better long-term value from a cost perspective. It is crucial to assess how much value you place on the comprehensive health tracking services of the Fitbit Sense 2 when evaluating its price over time.
Conclusion
After conducting a thorough analysis and personal testing of both the Fitbit Sense 2 and the Galaxy Watch 5, I’ve gathered substantial insights to guide potential buyers.
Final Recommendations
For users who prioritize health tracking and a lightweight design, I find the Fitbit Sense 2 to be the superior choice. It’s notably more comfortable to wear daily due to its reduced weight and size. The Galaxy Watch 5, however, stands out for its robust build and comprehensive smartwatch features. Those inclined towards a more cohesive integration with the Android ecosystem might prefer the Galaxy Watch 5.
Future Considerations
While the current models reflect the latest technology, future iterations are bound to enhance these aspects. Prospective buyers should consider longevity; the Fitbit may continue to lead in health-oriented features, and the Galaxy Watch could further refine its connectivity and functionality with Android devices. Potential advancements in battery life and sensor technology will also be pivotal in the next generation of smartwatches.
